A pool table is a major investment, not only because of the cost, but also because of the space they occupy. They are a great way to socialize and to have a bit of fun but there are a number of factors you need to take into consideration before laying down that hard-earned cash.
Pool tables come in a variety of styles, colors and sizes but the one thing that is most worrying has to be… the price!
Wondering how much a pool table will cost you? There’s no straightforward answer because it depends on several factors. We’ve listed all of the major factors below to guide you in making the right purchase.
Quality of Material
One of the biggest factors that affect pool table price is the quality of the materials that the pool table is built from. Pool tables are intricate pieces of engineering that require precise measurements, materials, and other specifics to ensure quality gameplay. A high-quality pool should have a sturdy cabinet, thick bed (ideally slate), quality felt lining, and other materials that make the pool table function as it should.
Slate vs Wood Bed
Under the felt of every pool table lies the table bed. The material this bed is made from is the number one factor that attributes to the price of a table. Slate pool tables will add substantial cost to the purchase price, but if you can afford it, be sure to buy one with a slate bed. 2 pool tables may look identical but rest assured, a pool table with slate bed will always outlast a pool table with a wood bed.
With each upgrade in the quality of material, you can expect a jump in price and durability. Pool tables used in tournaments use slate bed tables which are more expensive. But if you want to play like the pros, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t go for something worth the steep price.
Higher quality pool and billiard tables using include higher quality felt. This itself will last longer. Replacing felt can be a very costly process but it does get cheaper if you do it yourself.
Table Size
We hate to break it to you, but size does matter. The bigger the table, the higher the price. Pool tables come in a variety of sizes typically ranging from 7 ft., 8 ft., 8.5 ft., and 9 ft. The standard size for American pool tables is around 8 to 9 ft, with the latter as the official size for professional pool tournaments.
A bigger pool table will require more materials to build it, which increases the price. You also need to consider the available space in your home as well as the size of doorways to ensure that the purchased pool table can actually fit inside your home.
Pool Tables According to Price: Pros and Cons
$500-$1,000: 3 to 6 Years
This is generally the cheapest option for a full-sized pool table and offers excellent gameplay, but with a limited lifespan. These tables generally come with a synthesized wood within the cabinet, as opposed to the more durable hardwood. While these tables may hold for casual use (once or twice a week), frequent users may find these tables too “amateur” for their liking.
$1,000-$2,000: Decade or Longer
Moving up in the price range, there is an instant improvement in quality and durability that justifies the added price tag. With this price range, you can be looking at a decade of frequent use with little to no problems. These pool tables usually feature natural wood, higher quality framing and better felt, ensuring quality gameplay. For a long-term investment that doesn’t break the bank, this is a great option, especially if this will not be for everyday use.
$2,000-$4,000: Lifetime and More
In this price range, you can expect a long-lasting pool table with minimal need for repair and refurbishment. Naturally, typical wear and tear can begin to show, but functionality and gameplay should remain consistently strong thanks to the quality and durability of the materials.
Expect hardwood railings on these pool tables, which are the most durable materials, offering resistance to wear and tear. AAA Malaysian Gum Cushions enhance the accuracy and consistency of the table’s performance and ensure maximum enjoyment.
This range performs well for the serious pool players who like to hit the table every day and have a keen eye for the details, such as consistency of run and quality of bounce. With this pool table, you can have peace of mind knowing that it’s the best of the best.
With its price range, you can find a variety of stylistic variance — you can choose the design and decorative work you desire. You will have a stylish pool table that blends with the interior themes you have within your home.
$3,000- $20,000- Lifetime Guarantee
These tables are long term investments that hold up over multiple lifetimes, and are treated as heirlooms more than anything. These tables are often a generational investment to be enjoyed by kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, and so on. At this price range, you can find custom designs and materials that fit your specific tastes.
You can find exotic and highly sought-after woods to build these pool tables, as well as semi-precious gums lining the cushions. This offers an effortless and unique playing experience, smooth and consistent over the lifetime with little need for repair and refurbishments.
Ultimately, these tables can be something of a luxury and are generally family investments to be enjoyed across multiple generations.
Budget Pool Tables
These are understandably the cheapest option, but they’re designed for frequent use by your little ones. Typically, they won’t break the bank and can be bought for a few hundred bucks — a great starter option to get your kids interested in the game. These tables last around 3 to 5 years, which is enough time for your kid to fully enjoy it while growing up. Before you know it, they’ll be moving up to the big table.
Buying your First Pool Table
While it can be a confusing experience to buy your first pool table, weighing the pros and cons of each pool table is absolutely essential
Each table comes with unique features and amenities. When deciding on a pool table, you should consider your daily usage as well as the expected lifespan. Answering these two questions can help you figure out how much you are willing to spend on a pool table.
Conclusion
With the factors above in mind, you should be able to estimate how much your ideal pool table will cost. If you need something for casual use, you can find a decent pool table for under $1,000. If you’re looking to become a professional pool player, then you should consider saving up for high-end models that cost $3,000 and higher. Try to purchase a pool table with a slate bed, even if it means going for a smaller table. It’ll last longer, and stay a lot more level.
