If you enjoy playing pool, you’ll eventually start looking for a pool table for your house. You will notice as you start looking at pool tables online that prices can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more.
Consequently, why is there such a wide range in prices? The cost of the pool table will depend on a number of factors when you shop for one. Finding a pool table you like and will enjoy using for many years is the most important thing to keep in mind.
Table of Contents
Price Ranges Of Pool Tables
Low-range Tables
These pool tables are excellent for occasional use. From about $600 to $1,200, is their price range. They are typically created from synthetic and plastic materials. When not in use, some models are foldable and can be stored away.
Low-range tables are ideal if you want to play pool, teach your kids how to play pool, or want a pool table in your college dorm common room. With regular use, they usually last for five years.
Basic Economy Tables
Basic economy tables cost between $1,200 and $2,100. These tables provide slightly better materials than budget-friendly tables. They are only intended to last for about 20 years.
They are a good option, though, if you want to upgrade from a low-quality table in terms of quality. They are also suitable for those who only play pool occasionally.
Mid-range Tables
In game rooms and pool halls, mid-range tables predominate among bar-style tables.
The average cost of a pool table ranges from $2,100 to $3,500. Compared to basic economy tables, the material quality is higher. There is hardwood material, slate surface inserts, and better felt grades available.
Some tables in this price range allow for specific customizations and options, such as picking the felt or wood color. A mid-range table might be the best option if you regularly enjoy playing pool and want a decently-quality table. Additionally, midrange tables have a long lifespan.
High-range Custom Tables
Custom high-end tables cost $3,500 and up. The main advantage of custom tables is that you have more freedom in selecting the components, slate thickness, felt grade, and other factors to create a one-of-a-kind table especially for your home.
Some of the priciest fully restored and updated heirloom antique tables can cost between $10,000 and $15,000. Since the late 1800s and the beginning of the 1900s, there are antique tables that have undergone a thorough restoration and renovation.
In essence, when you shop for high-end custom tables, you are investing in your pool table because it will last for a very long time. You can pass down these tables to your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren because they are built to last for generations.
The Factors That Influence The Pool Table Price
The primary factors that influence the pool table price include:
- The Quality of the Table – Solid wood is used to make pool tables of the highest caliber; synthetic materials like plastic are used to create tables that are less expensive.
- Construction of Body: You’ll want to know the table’s construction materials as one of your first inquiries. You will find that Billiard Tables are made of:
- Composite Wood with Laminate Overlay
- Plywood with a Laminate Overlay
- Hardwoods (i.e. Oak, Maple, Walnut, or Mahogany)
- Playing Surface: To ensure balance and playability, it is crucial to understand the material of your playing surface. Playing Surface Materials Include:
- Most entry-level and kid-size (mini) pool tables are made of plywood. The playing surface of a table made of plywood is typically uneven and is not designed for long-term use. In addition, due to the playing surface, these tables will play very slowly. Additionally, these tables are prone to absorbing moisture over time, which will significantly alter the playability.
- One-Piece Slate: Entry Level billiard tables typically have a one-piece slate. Considering the nature of its hard surface, a slate table will aid in playability. One-Piece Slate has the drawback of being incredibly heavy, weighing up to 450 lbs, making it very challenging to move. Depending on the environment in which it is placed, one-piece slate tables may also be difficult to level.
- Three-Piece Slate: Three-Piece Slates will come in 3/4″ and 1″ thickness, the thicker the slate the more rigid it will be. Additionally, it makes it possible to accurately level the table, improving your playability. Since the installer can adjust the level and accuracy in a variety of settings, Three-Piece Slate is more adaptable than other surface types.
- Three-Piece Wood Backed Slate: This type of slate is identical to the three-piece slate described above. Wood backing refers to the fact that the cloth is stapled to the surface of the slate by attaching a piece of wood to the slate’s back. One of the two varieties of Slate is necessary, depending on how the table is constructed.
- The Thickness of the Surface Material – The cost of the table is influenced by the thickness of the material used for the playing surface. Cost of the table will increase as material thickness increases.
- Customizations and Options – Costlier than standard tables with no customizations or options are tables that provide a wider variety of customizations and options to essentially build your own unique pool table.
- The Quality of the Surface Material – The playing field is covered with felt in various grades. The cost of the table will increase with quality.
- The Quality of the Rail Materials – The table’s cost is also influenced by the materials used for the rails. Therefore, hardwoods will be more expensive than plastic or pressboard.
- The Quality of the Pocket Materials – The price of a pool table with genuine leather pockets will be higher than one with vinyl or synthetic leather.
- The Size of the Table – Pool tables can be anywhere between 6 and 9 feet long, with larger tables naturally costing more.
- 6′ Tables: This group includes bumper pool tables, toy tables, and mini tables.
- 6.5′ Tables: Generally made of one-piece slate, these are regarded as bar tables and are more frequently used in commercial settings.
- 7′ Tables: Designed typically for people with limited space and smaller rooms.
- 8′ Standard/professional-size tables.
- 9′ Tables: Due to their greater difficulty and suitability for the most accomplished players, these tables are regarded as tournament-sized.
- Pool Table Styles: Traditional to modern designs can be found in pool table styles. A pool table shaped like a car is even available.
- Traditional: The majority of tables typically have a Traditional aesthetic. They frequently have pockets as well as curved lines, carved legs, and decorative fringe accents.
- Leg style options include:
- Ball & Claw
- Grecian
- Rams Head
- Rounded
- Tapered
- Queen Ann
- Leg style options include:
- Contemporary: These patterns tend to have a lot of straight lines, vibrant colors, and distinctively shaped legs.
- Industrial: Industrial tables have legs made of metal (similar to iron) in combination with gorgeous wood, giving them a robust and heavy appearance.
- Modern: A more Modern pool table will be entirely unique in its design and materials, combining elements of each of the other table types.
- Rustic/Craftsman: The body of the table has a deeper, exaggerated wood grain, highlighting the wood’s natural beauty. Additionally, the construction is sturdy, and the tables have a straightforward farmhouse style.
- Traditional: The majority of tables typically have a Traditional aesthetic. They frequently have pockets as well as curved lines, carved legs, and decorative fringe accents.
- Cloth: Pool Table Cloth is generally called “Woolen” or “Worsted” Woolen cloth, also known as felt, is the type of cloth used on pool tables more frequently. Worsted Cloth is more expensive than traditional cloth and is typically used for tournaments. Although the billiard balls move more quickly and the cloth itself is less likely to “pill” with use, the results of using a woven cloth are noticeably different.
- Woolen Cloth: The standard or entry-level cloth for the majority of pool tables. Teflon coating is applied to some variations to help with stain resistance and durability.
- Worsted Cloth: Advanced/Professional Cloth Designed for Accuracy and Speed. Teflon will be coated on some variations as well.
- Delivery, Assembly, and Maintenance: In order to guarantee that the first play on your table is flawless, all Dealers offer Delivery and Installation services. In order to keep your table playing like new for longer, these dealers will also offer services. Services include:
- Table Re-Leveling
- Recovering Table with New Cloth
- Rerubbering Table Cushions
- Pool Table Relocation (in-home)
- Pool Table Relocation (home to home)
- Breakdown and Crating of the Slate (for long-distance moving)
- Kits: A lot of pool table dealers offer play kits, which frequently come with the pool table and include cues, chalk, balls, and a rack. From free (with table purchase) to $999, there are many different levels of accessory kits available.
- Other Customizable Features:
- Pockets
- Storage Drawers
- Sights and Table Markings
- Custom Wood Staining
- Custom Cloth Color
Accessories To Consider
- Lighting
- Personal 2-piece Cues
- Shorty Cues (for tight spaces)
- Table Brushes
- Table Covers
- Cue Racks (Wall / Floor)
- Spectator Chairs (for guests)
- Ball Racks
- Bridge Cues
- Jump / Break Cues
- Billiard Gloves
- Cone Chalk
How To Measure For A Pool Table
The size of the table you can put in a room just isn’t a matter of whether it’ll actually fit in the space, but how long your pool cue is as well. To ensure you’re making your best shot, try out a few different length cues since they range in length from 48 inches to 58 inches. Looking at the chart below will help you determine what size table will fit in the spaces you have available in your home once you’ve decided which cue makes you feel most at ease. At least one tight area on most home pool tables might benefit from a shorty cue.
Why Is A New Pool Table Necessary?
Getting a general idea of how much a new pool table will cost can be challenging because pool table prices vary depending on a number of purchasing factors. According to Game Tables Online, the typical cost of a pool table is between $1,200 and $3,500. This average takes into account the two primary categories of pool tables available on the market: budget-friendly and mid-range pool tables.
It’s crucial to remember that high-end pool tables can be completely customized and sometimes come with unique materials and features that significantly increase their cost. This means that some customers spend up to $15,000 for a pool table that is truly unique, according to Games Tables Online. In spite of this, a cheap pool table or even a used pool table in good shape can still provide lots of family entertainment. But you should expect to increase your investment if, for instance, you want the pool table to be an heirloom that you can leave to your kids.
Factors For Cost
The materials used in its construction, as well as its size and general quality, all have an impact on how much you’ll have to pay for your pool table. Basically, the price of an unforgettable pool table will reflect how much time and money was invested in making it. Here are the main factors to keep in mind:
Size
The playing surface on most pool tables is between 7 and 9 feet long. Generally speaking, a larger table will cost more than a smaller one. However, the size of a pool table is rarely the distinguishing factor between a high-end $10,000 pool table and a budget-friendly $1200 pool table.
Playing Surface
Choosing a slate playing surface is a no-brainer for players who want a professional-level playing experience. Blatt Billiards notes that a pool table with a slate playing surface will be significantly more expensive than a comparable pool table made of medium-density fiberboard. Of course, the fabric that covers the playing area will also be involved, albeit to a lesser degree. Therefore, a thick wool-nylon blend cloth will cost more than a thin synthetic nylon cloth.
Table Material
After all, a pool table is just a table, so it’s probably not surprising that high-quality solid wood pool tables are much more expensive than those made of plastic or other synthetic materials. This makes sense considering how much more enduring options like solid wood pool tables are and how long they will likely last. A wood pool table’s price will also increase, according to Ruxton Billiards, depending on how the wood is finished on the surface. As a result, hand-applied finishes on tables are generally quite a bit more expensive than spray-on finishes, which are applied to wood tables much more quickly.
Style And Customization
When compared to utilitarian models that provide an excellent playing surface but uninspired design, a pool table’s style and character will also increase its price, claims Billiard Beast. There are few restrictions on how one can customize a high-end pool table to create a one-of-a-kind item, from the smoothness of a table’s contours to the design of its rails. Therefore, even though LED lighting may be inexpensive these days, purchasing a pool table with fully-integrated LEDs is likely to cost you more money than a standard pool table that you might see at your favorite bar.
Additional Costs
Fortunately, owning a pool table probably won’t expose you to the kind of supplemental expenses usually connected with a significant purchase. However, there are unquestionably some things you’ll need to use and maintain your pool table once it’s set up.
Billiard Balls
A good set of billiard balls should cost you between $100 and $200, claims Legacy Billiards. It’s probably better to spend an extra $30 on a premium set of balls rather than a $30 budget set from Amazon if you put a fair amount of money into your pool table. You will be less likely to need to replace your set in the near future due to a ball chipping because high-quality billiard balls typically last much longer than cheaper options.
Pool Cues
To enjoy your new pool table, you’ll obviously need at least one pool cue. Similar to pool tables, pool cues come in a wide range of prices and, according to The Pool Academy, can cost over $1000. Thankfully, novice and intermediate pool players can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a pool cue that matches their level of expertise. For your less-experienced friends or family members, it might be a good idea to purchase a set of four affordable pool cues online. Although they might not be of the highest quality, these sets are a cheap way to include everyone in the fun for about $100.
Accessories
There are a few additional essential accessories you should buy in addition to balls and cues. Depending on the games you prefer, you may need a rack or even several racks. To position several cubes on the table, you should also probably purchase some pool cue chalk. A pool table cover can also be purchased to protect your playing surface if you have a mischievous cat who enjoys digging its claws into new surfaces. Although there are many different designs available and they can be as opulent as you like, a simple cover shouldn’t cost you more than $50.
Maintenance
Nobody enjoys having to start thinking about maintenance as soon as they buy a pricey new toy, but if you want to keep your pool table looking brand-new, buying some wood polish, billiard ball cleaner, and a pool table brush is a good idea. According to Presidential Billiards, a straightforward table brush can go a long way toward keeping dust and chalk off of your playing surface after you and your friends enjoy a leisurely game of pool.
Types Of Pool Tables
The various styles and sizes of pool tables that you will see advertised on the market are typically different. Manufacturers can pick from a variety of options when creating pool tables, though. As a result, the price you will pay for a particular table will depend on these elements, including the table’s size, construction materials, features, and even the manufacturer’s name.
Toy Pool Tables
Although seven to nine feet is the typical length of a pool table’s playing surface, there are smaller options available that may be better suited for kids or casual players. These pool tables don’t have a reputation for being the toughest choices on the market, and they’re not likely to have fine craftsmanship or premium materials that elevate your family’s game room. Toy pool tables can be purchased for about $600, according to Game Tables Online, if you’re looking for a good deal.
Economy Pool Tables
Toy pool tables are a reasonable step down from economy pool tables in terms of cost and performance. According to Game Tables Online, depending on the materials and construction quality of the pool table, these models typically cost consumers between $1200 and $2,000 each. Even though these pool tables frequently lack the bells and whistles of luxury models, they provide a cost-effective way for occasional players and those on a tight budget to enjoy their pool table for many years to come. Additionally, they are available in a range of sizes that are appropriate for adults, though larger models will obviously cost more money.
Mid-range Pool Tables
The playing surface sizes on mid-range pool tables range from seven to nine feet in length, just like on economy pool tables. However, according to Game Tables Online, they typically provide a more stable playing surface as a result of their larger legs. Additionally, this category of pool tables is known for using materials of a higher caliber than those found in economy pool tables. As a result, your pool table might have more opulent solid wood or a thicker playing surface of slate than less expensive models. The typical price range for these pool tables, according to Game Tables Online, is $2,100 to $3,500.
Heirloom Pool Tables
Purchase an heirloom pool table if you want a high-end table that will last a lifetime or longer. These tables, which can cost between $3,500 and $15,000, feature exotic materials, meticulous attention to detail, and cutting-edge designs that set them apart from standard barroom pool setups. For those looking for a completely one-of-a-kind pool table that will serve as a source of pride for many generations, these pool tables also provide an unmatched level of craftsmanship and customization.
Benefits Of A Pool Table
It can be difficult to estimate the cost of a new pool table because prices vary depending on a variety of purchasing considerations. According to Game Tables Online, the typical cost of a pool table is between $1,200 and $3,500. The economy pool tables and mid-range pool tables, the two primary categories of pool tables available, are included in this average.
It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that high-end pool tables can be completely customized and sometimes come with unique materials and features that significantly increase their cost. This indicates that some customers spend up to $15,000 for a pool table that is truly unique, according to Games Tables Online. Nevertheless, a reasonably priced pool table or even a used pool table in good shape can provide hours of enjoyable family time. However, you should expect to increase your investment if you want the pool table to be an heirloom that you can give to your kids, for instance.
Factors for cost
Den Rozhnovsky/Shutterstock
The materials used in its construction, as well as its size and general quality, all have an impact on how much you’ll have to pay for your pool table. In other words, the price of a memorable pool table will be influenced by how much time and money were spent on its creation. Here are the main factors to keep in mind:
Size
The playing surface on most pool tables is between 7 and 9 feet long. Generally speaking, a larger table will cost more than a smaller one. However, the size of a pool table is rarely the distinguishing factor between a low-cost $1200 pool table and a high-end $10,000 pool table.
Playing Surface
A slate playing surface is the obvious choice for gamers who want a professional-level gaming experience. Blatt Billiards notes that a pool table with a slate playing surface will be significantly more expensive than a comparable pool table made of medium-density fiberboard. Naturally, the fabric that covers the playing area will also be involved, albeit to a lesser degree. Therefore, a thick wool-nylon blend cloth will cost more than a thin, synthetic nylon cloth.
Table Material
At the end of the day, a pool table is just a table, so it’s probably not surprising that solid wood pool tables are much more expensive than those made of plastic or other artificial materials. This makes sense considering how much more robust options like solid wood pool tables are likely to endure the test of time. However, according to Ruxton Billiards, the method used to finish the wood’s surface will also raise the cost of a wood pool table. As a result, hand-applied finishes on tables typically cost much more than spray-on finishes on wood, which dry much more quickly.
Style and Customization
When compared to utilitarian models that provide an excellent playing surface but uninspired design, a pool table’s style and character will also increase its price, claims Billiard Beast. There are few restrictions on how a high-end pool table can be customized to create a one-of-a-kind item, from the sexyness of a table’s contours to the style of its rails. Thus, even though LED lighting is now reasonably priced, buying a pool table with fully integrated LEDs will undoubtedly cost you more money than a standard pool table like the one you might find at your favorite bar.
Additional costs
Thankfully, owning a pool table won’t likely expose you to the kind of supplemental expenses usually connected with a significant purchase. Nevertheless, there are a few things you’ll need once your pool table is set up in order to use and care for it.
Billiard Balls
A good set of billiard balls should cost you between $100 and $200, claims Legacy Billiards. It’s probably better to spend an extra $30 on a premium set of balls rather than a $30 budget set from Amazon if you put a fair amount of money into your pool table. You will be less likely to need to replace your set in the near future due to a ball chipping because high-quality billiard balls typically last much longer than cheaper options.
Pool Cues
To enjoy your new pool table, you’ll obviously need at least one pool cue. Pool cue prices can even reach over $1000, according to The Pool Academy, and they vary greatly, just like pool tables do. Thankfully, novice and intermediate pool players can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a pool cue that matches their level of expertise. For when your less-experienced friends or family want to play, it might be a good idea to buy a set of four affordable pool cues online. Although they might not be of the highest quality, these sets are a cheap way to include everyone in the fun for about $100.
Accessories
Other than balls and cues, there are a few other essential accessories you should buy. You’ll require a rack, or a few racks, depending on the games you prefer. To position several cubes on the table, you should also probably purchase some pool cue chalk. Purchase a pool table cover to shield your playing surface if you have a mischievous cat who enjoys digging its claws into new surfaces. A basic cover shouldn’t cost much more than $50 and comes in a variety of styles that can be as opulent as you like.
Maintenance
Nobody enjoys having to start thinking about maintenance as soon as they buy a pricey new toy, but if you want to keep your pool table looking brand-new, buying some wood polish, billiard ball cleaner, and a pool table brush is a good idea. A straightforward table brush can go a long way toward keeping dust and chalk off of your playing surface after you and your friends enjoy a leisurely game of pool, according to Presidential Billiards.
Types of pool tables
Pool tables come in a variety of styles and sizes, which are typically used to distinguish them in advertisements. But when it comes to designing pool tables, manufacturers have a wide range of options. As a result, these elements—including a table’s size, construction materials, features, and even manufacturer—will affect the cost that you will pay for a particular table.
Toy Pool Tables
There are smaller options that you can buy that might be better suited for kids or casual players to use, even though the majority of pool tables offer a playing surface that is seven to nine feet long. The craftsmanship and high-quality materials that would elevate your family’s game room are not known to be present in these pool tables, which are not known for being the most resilient options on the market. Toy pool tables can be bought for about $600, according to Game Tables Online, if you’re looking for a good deal.
Economy Pool Tables
Toy pool tables are a reasonable step down from economy pool tables in terms of cost and performance. Depending on the materials and construction quality of the pool table, these models typically cost consumers between $1200 and $2,000, according to Game Tables Online. Although these pool tables frequently lack the bells and whistles of luxury models, they offer an affordable way for casual players and those on a tight budget to enjoy their pool table for many years to come. They also come in a variety of sizes that are suitable for adults, though larger models will obviously cost more money.
Mid-Range Pool Tables
The playing surface sizes on mid-range pool tables range from seven to nine feet in length, just like on economy pool tables. However, according to Game Tables Online, they typically provide a more stable playing surface as a result of their larger legs. Higher-quality materials, which are uncommon in economy pool tables, are also known to be used in this category of pool tables. As a result, your pool table might have more opulent solid wood or a thicker slate playing surface than less expensive models. These pool tables typically cost $2,100 to $3,500, according to Game Tables Online.
Heirloom Pool Tables
Purchase an heirloom pool table if you want a high-end table that will last a lifetime or longer. These tables, which can cost between $3,500 and $15,000, feature exotic materials, meticulous attention to detail, and cutting-edge designs that set them apart from standard barroom pool setups. For those looking for a completely one-of-a-kind pool table that will serve as a source of pride for many generations, these pool tables also provide an unmatched level of craftsmanship and customization.
Conclusion
Even though it might be alluring to simply purchase a cheap table, you must keep in mind that you will eventually need to replace it. Contrarily, if you spend more money on a table that is of a higher caliber and is made of solid wood and slate, you can expect it to last for many generations with the right maintenance.