Which pool billiard table is right for you?
BILLIARD TABLE BUYING GUIDE
Before purchasing a pool billiard table, you should give it some thought because the purchase is an investment you wouldn't want to regret. If you choose the right table, you can enjoy playing pool for a lifetime. Here, you will learn about the most important buying criteria and what you should pay special attention to when purchasing a pool billiard table.
ROOM SIZE / TABLE SIZE
An adequately sized room is the basic requirement for your pool billiard table. Measure your space precisely. Consider not only the dimensions of the table but also the playing area around the table. Sufficient playing space allows players to move and shoot comfortably. For this, you need a minimum of 1.5 meters of free space around the playing field.
The size of the pool billiard table directly influences the gaming experience. Optimal gameplay is achieved on a 9-foot table. 9-foot tables are used in official international tournaments. For smaller rooms and smaller budgets, there are also sizes 7 and 8 feet, and even smaller sizes available.
MATERIAL:
The playing surface of the pool billiard table is the centerpiece of every table. It is usually made of MDF (wood composite) or slate (natural stone).
MDF boards are cost-effective, but they have a high error tolerance and do not offer the best playing characteristics. They are mainly used for recreational players or children's leisure. Additionally, in most MDF or wood composite boards, the cloth cannot be replaced when worn out.
Slate boards cost more, but they provide the best playing quality and are particularly durable. For precise gameplay, the playing surface should preferably be equipped with a three-piece slate. The thickness of the slate also influences the table quality. Balls roll more accurately and smoothly on slate surfaces.
It is also important to have good craftsmanship in the construction of the body and frame material to prevent warping.


CLOTH QUALITY:
The billiard cloth significantly influences the ball's trajectory. High-quality brands like Simonis offer durable cloth with a smooth surface. Professional tournaments often use this brand of cloth (e.g., World Championships, European Championships, Matchroom tournaments, EPBF tournaments, etc.). Within the cloth brands, you can find cloth qualities like Simonis 760 and 860. On Simonis 760, the balls roll a bit faster. For more detailed information on the rolling behavior, you can visit https://iwansimonis.com/en/pool-cloth
Billiard cloths are available in countless colors, allowing you to customize the pool table to your interior design.


CUSHIONS:
The cushions should ensure an even rebound as they strongly influence the game. Brands known for their precise rebound, such as Master Pro and Artemis, are used in the tournaments mentioned earlier, as they provide a controlled bounce. Well-known cushion rubber manufacturers typically use the K55 profile, although other profiles like K66 are also offered.

STYLE AND DESIGN:
Pool billiard tables are available in various styles, from traditional to modern. Choose a style that complements your room design. Pay attention to the color selection to ensure that the table harmoniously integrates into your home.
You might also want to use your pool table as a dining table or conference table. For this purpose, there are special table designs with cover plates and specific table legs for comfortable seating.
Or do you want an outdoor pool table for both playing and dining? This option is also available.
BUDGET:
Set a realistic budget. Pool billiard tables are available in various price ranges. Consider not only the table price but also potential delivery and assembly costs.
Cost-effective pool tables with one-piece MDF or composite boards can be easily assembled privately. They are usually pre-assembled and covered, but they can be cumbersome to transport.
Pool tables with slate boards can be self-assembled with some handy skills and the appropriate tools by two people. However, professional assembly by trained technicians is recommended. Using specialized tools, the frame and usually three-piece playing surface are precisely leveled horizontally, and the billiard cloth is evenly stretched.
It is important, however, to find a balance between your requirements and your budget.
ACCESSORIES:
Keep in mind that playing pool also requires accessories. These include cues, balls, a triangle, chalk, a brush, and cleaning supplies. A good choice is a pool table accessory set, which typically includes most of the necessary items.
You may also want a table cover, a cue rack, and a pool table lamp for optimal illumination of the table.

CONCLUSION:
By carefully weighing these aspects, you can ensure that the pool billiard table you choose is not only aesthetically appealing but also meets the gameplay requirements, spatial constraints, and fits within your budget.
If you have any further questions, our support team is happy to assist.


with Slate

with Slate
