Best Air Hockey Tables Review

You’ll likely agree with us that having an air hockey table is a must and is probably one of the cheapest and most fun ways to grow your recreation room. Whether it is an office or your home, it is a minimal spatial and financial investment that can improve your quality of life. But buying one, especially when you are new to the game, can be challenging.
That is why we have identified the top five air hockey products for you to buy, with all the details you need to make an informed decision.

Having identified the top three products, let’s take a closer look at each product, and two others, diving into their features and the pros and cons of buying them.

Best Air Hockey Tables – Top 5 On the Market

  1.   Triumph Lumen-X Lazer 6’Interactive Air Hockey Table Review

The standout feature of this first air hockey table is the gaming experience that it promises. Compared to most tables on the market, it looks different, thanks to its futuristic cyberpunk design. From its playing surface to its legs, the Triumph Lumen-X Lazer 6’ Interactive Air Hockey table is black, with white, light gray, and bright blue accents.

This design gives the table a very dynamic look that quickly immerses you in the fun that is air hockey. Around the table is an in-rail LED lighting with cascading effects and in-game music that feels like you’re inside a video game. What’s more, the dynamic LED lighting is not limited to the table alone. The Triumph Lumen-X Lazer further comes with two ultra-bright strikers and a light-up puck.

But LED lighting is one part of a set of features that make this air hockey table our best choice. Its surface material is made out of PVC, guaranteeing smooth gameplay, and it has 12V dual motor blowers that provide airflow. What’s more, a combination of both features gives the Triumph Lumen fast and furious gameplay. While enjoying a game, players can focus on playing while its electronic scoring system keeps track of the action.

In terms of hardware, this is a very sturdy table. It is supported by 12mm thick legs with four 2.5’ leg levelers. That guarantees a leveled surface, regardless of the state of the floor. It also has curved sides, with zero sharp edges. Altogether, that makes it one of the safest tables you can buy, especially at its comparatively lower price.

Key Features

1. LED Lighting and Accessories
2. Curved Edges
3. PVC Playing Surface
4. Electronic Scoring System
5. Four Leg Levelers

This is an excellent table for people, families, or bars looking for a table with high-end air hockey table features at a mid-range price.

  2.   Atomic Top Shelf 7.5’ Air Hockey Table Review

The Atomic Top Shelf 7.5’ Air Hockey Table does not have an aesthetic design that jumps at you at first sight, but it is a well-built air hockey table with great features. It has the looks of a real arcade air hockey table, which is appealing for players who want an athletic-looking table. So, if you need to change the mood, in-rail LED lights, and high tempo music transforms the table into a futuristic disco experience.

The real fun, however, is in playing on the Atomic Top Shelf. It has an MDF playfield, laminated with PVC that gives it a smooth playing surface. The puck also moves swiftly across the table thanks to a 120V motor that provides the entire surface with maximum airflow. This powerful motor can last multiple games before it needs a rest. Additionally, players do not have to worry about keeping the scores. This air hockey table has an electronic scoreboard that records the action, giving you the feel of an actual hockey game.

At 230 pounds, the Atomic Top Shelf 7.5’ Air Hockey Table is quite heavy, but that is due to its frame. There are also four large legs that ensure your table is both durable and robust enough to handle the stress while it is in use. The legs further offer enough stability to prevent the table tipping.

And although this product is slightly more expensive than the Triumph. Still, with its powerful motor and accessories, it is one of the best air hockey tables on the market.

Key Features

1. 120V Motor
2. LED Lumen-X Technology
3. 82’ x 41’ Playing Surface
4. Playing Accessories
5. PVC Playing Surface

If you’re going for something less flashy, a lot more durable with speedy gameplay, the Atomic Top Shelf 7.5’ Air Hockey Table is just what you are looking for.

  3.   Viper Vancouver 7.5-Foot Air Hockey Game Table Review

Sometimes, you just want an air hockey table that reflects the hockey part of the game in its design. That is what the Viper Vancouver 7.5-foot Air Hockey Game Table offers. It has a silk-colored playing surface, designed to mimic the looks of a real hockey rink which extends to the game’s only LED lighting offering – the scoreboard. Overall, it is a great-looking table.

On top of this, the gameplay on the Viper Vancouver is also quite easy on the eyes. It has a 110-volt blower that provides an airflow of up to 110 cubic feet per minute, causing the puck to glide across the table at extreme speed. There are also four raised deflection walls that rebound fierce shorts back into the deep-set rink, giving you a highly intense game.

On top of this, the frame is durable and sturdy, and comes with four leg levelers that ensure the table has a balanced playing surface, regardless of the smoothness of the flow. The rails, in particular, of this expansive table, are made of dyed plastic. So, you can expect them to remain dentless, even after years of use.

Lastly, setting up the Viper Vancouver might take a minute, with some assembly required out of the box. But with such fast-paced gameplay, elegant design, and features like dual end puck returns, it is a more than worthy addition to your recreational setup.

Key Features

1. 5-inch Metallic Silver Leg Levelers
2. 110V Airflow Motor
3. Silk-Screened Playing Surface
4. Dual-End Puck Return
5. Multi-Directional Large LED Scorer

For a large-sized table that gives you control over the speed and direction of the game, you should consider the Viper Vancouver 7.5-Foot Air Hockey Game Table.

  4.   Best Choice Products 54-inch Air Hockey Table with 2 Pucks Review

Simplicity is at the heart of the design of this air hockey table. For those who prioritize simplistic designs, it is a perfect choice. The Best Choice Products Air Hockey Table has a skeletal frame that consists of the table and the legs. The table itself is quite large; it is 54 inches long, and its playing surface features a smooth PVC material.

Also, a 12V DC motor provides its airflow. It is not ultra-powerful, but it is enough to give an evenly spread steady airflow for the puck. You might not be able to play at extreme speeds, but it is still good enough to be fun. Also. it does have two scoring systems – LED electronic scorekeeping and abacus scorers. With each method, players and viewers can easily keep track of the game’s records.

Below the tabletop are four sets of legs made out of high-quality composite wood which provide balance and sturdiness to the table and give this table a significant level of durability. What’s more, this table also comes with playing accessories, which include two pucks and two pushers.

And with its dimensions (56’ x 27’ x 31.5’), it is well suited for kids. Even more, at its price, it is an excellent value for money for family or office fun.

Key Features

1. PVC Playing Surface
2. Two Scoring Systems – Digital and Manual
3. Two Pucks and Two Pushers
4. 12V DC Motor and Adapter
5. 54-inch Playfield

Looking for a cheaply priced table just enough to provide the relaxation you need in your home or office? Then look no further than this Best Choice Product that comes with a large playing area at such a light weight.

  5.   Brunswick 7ft Air Hockey Table – Windchill Review

Our final product is the Brunswick 7 feet Air Hockey Table. It has a contemporary look that would fit most interior designs. Its black and white color scheme is aesthetically appealing and makes for easy DIY design changes. Additionally, the top of the table is 7 feet long, giving it a significantly large playing surface which equally features MDF material with a PVC playing surface, which offers a smooth feel.

Playing on the Brunswick 7 feet Air Hockey Table is a breeze. It has a strong UL blower that ensures constant flow across every part of its surface. Thanks to the UL blower, gameplay on the Brunswick is also fast-paced, and players can expect high-intensity fun. Additionally, through the course of the game, players can record the score using the abacus scorers at each end of the table.

Furthermore, the rest of the table is a frame with a sturdy base. The Brunswick 7 ft Air Hockey Table has a pedestal base, with adjustable leg levelers for unbalanced floors. Additionally, the Brunswick comes with four pucks and two mallets. As a bonus, the manufacturer offers a 90-Day warranty for defects.

Key Features

1. Strong UL Blower
2. Dual Abacus Scores
3. Complete Accessories
4. Sturdy Pedestal Base
5. Contemporary Design

The Brunswick 7ft Air Hockey Table is a table with a high-end design and a mid-range price. If you are looking for a durable, great-looking table for a modest price, this is a great product to buy.

Best Air Hockey Tables – Buyers’ Guide

Features to look out for when buying an air hockey table

To get the best performance out of your air hockey table, in the short term and long term, there are some features you need to watch out for. While the priority level of each one depends on your preference, they are equally essential and work together to guarantee you get the most out of your new table. From table size to ease of assembly, here are some features you need to consider when buying an air hockey table.

Table size

There are two reasons why you should consider the size of an air hockey table before committing to one. One, your available space matters. You don’t want to buy a table, set it up and discover it is either too big for the room or players do not have enough space for flexible movement. So, you should measure the room you want to set it up in and make sure there’s at least 2 to 3 feet of multidirectional space for the players. Secondly, the playing surface area. The larger the table, the larger the playing field. So, if you are looking to play on a wide playfield, your best bet is large air hockey tables. However, beware that the larger the table, the more expensive it is.

Air hockey tables come in different sizes, all of which are best suited to a different category of players.

24 inches (2 feet) – Air hockey tables in this size are often known as tabletop tables. They are best suited for young children and amateurs. Their small size usually means they are portable and mobile. You can easily pack them away and free up space when they are not in use. A lot of them are inexpensive and might lack long term durability and stability. Still, with careful research, you can find some reliable products.

48 inches to 72 inches (4 to 6 feet) – If you are buying it primarily for home entertainment, you are likely to find a majority of tables in this size range. They are for home use, so most of them would fit any room comfortably. The air hockey tables in this size are also sturdy and wide enough to handle games for adults and children.

84 inches to 96 inches (7 to 8 feet) – Except for custom-designed tables, this is the largest size of air hockey tables on the market. They are for professional level players or those who want the arcade experience. They are equally great at handling extended and abusive use, thanks to their highly rugged design. You can get them for your personal recreational use, but note that they are way more expensive.

Build

Once you have identified the right table size for you, it is vital to consider the build material of the table. The best air hockey tables are the ones made from wood and aluminum. These tables are sturdier, more durable, and provide better stability for players. We also have tables made out of plastic, but they are cheaper, and you can expect them to last a few months tops.

Ultimately, when it comes to the build, the decision should be based on how often you want to play and what you can afford. If you intend to be a regular player, then it is better to invest in tables with a combination of wood and aluminum. They can handle the stress over a more extended period. Plastic tables are okay if they’re meant for young children, or you don’t intend to play occasionally.

Rink walls

Air hockey is a game that involves consistently hitting the rink walls or side rails. The side rails are for rebound and deflection of the puck. For a game with such aggressive hitting from every player, you need a table built to handle that amount of stress. In that case, you should avoid air hockey tables that have rink walls with thin laminated aluminum. They simply won’t last.

Instead, go for tables with solid aluminum rink walls or side rails. You can also get one with strong nylon-made side rails. They are more capable of handling the aggression and less likely to leave a scratch or dent. Because these tables are more expensive, the best option comes down to your budget and how often you intend to play. If you plan on being an occasional player, then an air hockey table with laminated aluminum rink walls is fine.

Motor/fan

This feature basically determines the ease of play. An air hockey table with a good motor or fan will supply air evenly across the table, and make it easy for the puck to move around. Not so good fans mean players have to use more force to move the puck around, which can cause players to get tired or injured during long-running games.

Also, the best air hockey tables have high output UL approved motors. They are powerful enough to provide smooth and consistent airflow while working quietly. They also have a plenum chamber (a cavity between the blower and air distribution system where air builds up to distribute evenly across the surface).

Some tables have two motors, but this is not necessary. One powerful motor or fan with a plenum chamber is more than enough to ensure smooth and easy gameplay.

Power supply (plug-in or battery)

Because electricity bills exist, it is worth considering alternative options for power supply, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time on the table. However, the truth is, it is better to buy a plug-in table if you plan on playing regularly, particularly on large tables.

For casual players, a battery-powered table is a good option. But you have to consider the long-term financial trade-off of a plug-in table to loads of batteries. A battery-powered table is also a better option if you are buying an air hockey table for camping trips or a place where there is no electricity.

Ultimately, a hybrid table is the best table if you would like to use it in any type of condition. But consider that you might have to fork out a few extra dollars for it.

Table design

Table design refers to the kind of experience you want out of your table, and who the table is for. For young children and beginners or amateurs, basic table designs are okay. They have no additional features like led lights, electronic scoring, or music. These kinds of tables are also cheaper, so they are not bad options for a family rec room.

Arcade-style designs are more experienced players. They have all the attendant features you would expect from a professional game, like electronic scoring and LED lights. They are more common in public spaces like bars, but if you can afford them, they are great for homemade fun too.

Scoring method

Another feature that contributes to the ease of play is the scoring method of the table. Air hockey tables have two main types of scoring methods – Electronic scoring and Manual Slider, and the best kinds of air hockey tables have the former.

Electronic scoring allows you to play without stopping to keep track of the game’s scores. It is easier and helps maintain the flow of the game, especially during high-intensity matches. The Manual Slider, also known as Abacus, uses sliders to keep track of the scores. You are most likely to find them in cheaper models.

For electronic scoring, you should note the kind of sensor in the table. Infrared puck sensors are better and more reliable than mechanical sensors.

The thickness of the table

A smooth table means better gameplay, and you can determine this by the thickness of the table. Thicker tables are of higher quality, with more smoothened surfaces. You should buy a table with a minimum thickness of ¾ inches.

Ease of assembly

Unlike other table games, air hockey tables, on average, are easier to assemble. But this depends on the manufacturer. Some can be a lot more demanding, in terms of their weight and set up process. Consider the ease of assembly before committing to any table, and make sure you have the skills and tools to set it up. You can also see if the manufacturer offers home installation. However, that will definitely cost a few extra dollars.

Leg levelers

Finally, balance is key. Regardless of the kind of table you are buying, you need a level playing surface to enjoy the game. The best air hockey tables have leg levelers that allow you to balance the surface according to the smoothness of the floor. Now, if you are sure of the smoothness of your floor, it might not be necessary. But you should also know that tables with leg levelers are future-proof. If you relocate the table to a rougher floor or something happens to your floor, leg levelers mean you can still play on a balanced playfield.

What are the advantages of having one at home?

Perhaps you are still debating the value of getting an air hockey table, here are a couple of reasons why you should get one.

Easily accessible fun

For a lot of people, having to create time to go out and have fun is a lot of effort. Sometimes, you can’t afford to, and most times, you are just too busy. An air hockey table in your home is a great and affordable way to have quick fun in the comfort of your space.

It doesn’t matter whether it is just for you or your family. An air hockey table in the house or office means having some calming fun by walking a few steps to the table.

Great source of exercise

You don’t always have to lay out the yoga mat, go to the gym, or run in the park to get some quality exercise. An air hockey table can help you put some muscles to good use. Air hockey is a game that requires focus and quick reflexes. Playing improves your muscles’ ability to react to rapid changes.

Additionally, the focus necessary for playing improves your hand to eye coordination, which is a great way to improve the parts of the brain that control that function. Finally, playing air hockey, no matter the speed, burns calories. Because it requires little physical exertion compared to other kinds of exercise, it is a great way to maintain your cardiovascular health.

It encourages social interaction

One tested and trusted way to bring people together is by introducing an innocuous activity into their midst. Air hockey is a fun and exciting activity that offers that. For players, the conversational back and forth while playing is an excellent way to get to know each other. Spectators can also enjoy pleasant physical human interaction by having a shared experience to bond over.

For families or people who are looking to improve their social relationships, you won’t go wrong by getting an air hockey table.

Helps improve mental health

One other benefit you will most certainly gain from buying an air hockey table is an improvement in your mental health. We all get bad days, and having a way to blow off steam is a great way to limit the adverse effects of our daily life. An air hockey table is an excellent stress reliever, and the good thing is, it is accessible whenever you need relief.

Beyond stress, the need for focus and mental alertness sharpens your brain memory and improves your cognitive skills. Better cognitive skills mean a better state of mind, and it is all the reach of a table and a puck.

Types of air hockey tables

After deciding to get an air hockey table, you need to know there are different types. The best choice depends on your budget, needs, and available space. There are three primary types of air hockey tables – Arcade, Table Top, and Combination.

Table Top table – This is often the cheapest kind of air hockey table on the market. They are mostly about three to four feet long and take up very little space. If you don’t have space to earmark for a large and permanent table, then a tabletop is worth considering. It is also the better option for kids and beginners because they have smaller playfields and are cheap enough to be replaced in case of damages.

Arcade-Style table – This is the most common type of table, followed by tabletops. They call them arcade-style tables because they usually have the size and design you would find in arcades. These arcade-style tables have a lot more features than tabletop tables. They have LED lighting, music, and electronic scoring. They also have a higher quality of motor, so gameplay is smoother and more fast-paced. Arcade-style tables can range from six to eight feet in length and are for those who can afford a dedicated space.

Finally, they are a lot more durable because they are often made of wood or aluminum. This allows them to withstand a lot more stress and last longer.

Combination tables – Air hockey is not the only table game out there. There is ping pong, foosball, and billiards. For those who would like to play all kinds of table games, a combination air hockey table is a great option. They are convertible from one game to the other. Combination Air Hockey tables are growing in popularity because of the increase in quality, so you might be able to find a great option. Combination air hockey tables can be more expensive. But the unique benefit is, you will be getting multiple table games in one.

Electric vs. battery tables – which is better?

There are two kinds of air hockey tables – electric and battery-powered tables. Both kinds of air hockey tables are a source of debate among air hockey fans, but that is because they both have their advantages.

An electric table has stronger and more powerful fans for consistent airflow, especially on arcade air hockey tables. The high-intensity nature of air hockey is better experienced on an electric table because, well, they don’t grow weak over a long period. Also, other than the extra cost in your electricity bill, there is no additional cost to owning an electric table. Unlike battery tables, which have the added cost of double AA batteries. The downside is, electric tables are not mobile, and need a permanent space.

This is where battery-powered tables have an advantage. Because they are common among foldable and portable tables, you play them wherever you are, even without electricity. If you need a game on a camping trip, battery-powered tables are always going to be the better option.

So, which is better? Well, it comes down to what you expect from your air hockey table. But on average, it is better to buy an electric table.

FAQ

How much does a good air hockey table cost?

When it comes to cost, it all comes down to what you want and how much you are willing to spend. If you are in the market for a tabletop air hockey table, you can get a good one at less than $100. The best quality arcade-style tables can cost between $800 to $10,000. We cannot cover every category, but here is the cost of air hockey tables based on size.

2 to 4 feet – tables in this size range are usually tabletops, and you can get a good one for between $50 and $100.

5 to 7 feet – this size range comes in different price categories. For mid-range quality tables, you can get a good one between $300 and $600. High-quality tables can cost between $800 and $1200.

Beyond 7 feet and into tournament sizes, you can expect to spend between $1200 and $10,000.

What is the official size for an air hockey table?

The official tournament size table, according to the Air Hockey Player Association and the United States Air Hockey Association, is 84 inches (length) by 48 inches (width) by 32 inches (height). There is also a full-size air hockey table that has a dimension of 96 inches by 52 inches by 32 inches.

There are other sizes of air hockey tables. The tabletop table, also known as 2 feet table, has a dimension of 24 inches by 12 inches by 32 inches. Midrange sizes for arcade-style air hockey tables have a dimension between 48 and 72 inches by 30 inches by 32 inches.

Tabletops are best suited for beginners and children, while adult players looking for indoor table options can get for the four to six feet tables (48/72 inches). The larger table is the highest category of table sizes, and it is best for professionals and tournaments.

What size air hockey table should I buy?

There is no ‘wrong’ size to buy. Each size category has its value, and the right size for you depends on what you want from your air hockey table. If you are buying it for young children or a new entrant to the game, a tabletop or a 4 feet arcade-style table is good enough.

For amateurs and adult players, you are probably better off with something between four and six feet. But beyond the skill level of players and other factors like mobility and power supply, one factor to consider is the size of the room. The right air hockey table for you depends on the space you have available for the table. Aside from the size of the table itself, you should add at least two to three feet of space in all directions for players to move during play.

Once you have accounted for player movement, you can determine the right air hockey table based on your preferences.

How long do air hockey tables last?

The durability of an air hockey table will always vary depending on a few subjective factors like build quality and maintenance. But typically, you can expect a good table to last between one to five years. If a table is well maintained, you can even expect to use it for more than five years.

However, this is all based on the premise that it is a good quality table. That is why it is better to stomach the expensive cost of an air hockey table now, for a prolonged period of use.

How do you maintain an air hockey table?

Depending on the build of the table, maintenance of an air hockey table is often a simple affair.

Avoid Major Stains – the first thing is to avoid getting chemicals capable of permanent stain on the table. So, you want to avoid food and drinks around the table, unless you have a combination table, which can handle different kinds of stains.

Clean Regularly – Another thing is keeping it clean. Regularly clean your air hockey table and remove major stains off it immediately.

Fix the Dents – Use epoxy to bring the dent level on the surface to match the rest of the table. After it dries, use sandpaper to remove bumps.

Clean the Air Blower – After some time, your blower or fan is likely to accumulate dirt. You can use a wet wipe or an air compressor to clean the blower.

Buy a Cover – Finally, getting a cover is a good maintenance practice. It is cheap, and it barely costs anything in terms of effort. Get a cover to protect the table from dirt and contaminants.

How do I clean the table?

Here are the steps for cleaning an air hockey table:

• Vacuum the table: to remove dirt and tiny particles from the table, use a flat house vacuum on the table. Run it all over the playing surface, once or twice.
• Scrub the table: use a dry but soft cloth to wipe the table down. After vacuuming, use this cloth to get any remaining dirt off the table. After that, dampen the cloth with some rubbing alcohol. Do not use soap. Use the dampened cloth to scrub the tabletop while the fan/blower is on.
• Wipe the frame with soap and warm water: after thoroughly scrubbing the tabletop, soak a fresh cloth in warm water and dishwashing detergent. Squeeze out excess water and use the damp cloth to wipe the sides and legs of the table. Never use soapy water to clean the inside rails!
• Clean air holes: use pipe cleaners, cotton swabs, or toothpicks to clean dust out of the air holes of a table. Take your time and poke each hole with your chosen cleaning material. A clear air hole is necessary for consistent airflow.

How frequently should it be cleaned?

It depends on how often you use the table and if you have a cover. But whether once a week or daily, you should clean the playing surface immediately after use. Regular cleaning for maintenance should happen once a week. If you use it sparingly over a more extended period, make sure to do a deep clean before and after you put it in storage. For more regular players, a deep clean is necessary every couple of months.

Do the tables need to be plugged in?

If you have an electric or hybrid air hockey table, yes, they need to be plugged in. The puck needs air to glide smoothly across the table. If the motor responsible for this uses electricity, you need to plug it into a convenient outlet. Also, tabletop tables are likely to come with shorter cords, so you might want to be sure you don’t need an extension.

What’s the best brand of tables?

There are several good brands to pick from if you are in the market for an air hockey table. Depending on your budget, these brands cater to a particular category of players and customers.

At low-end to midrange, some of the best air hockey table brands include Triumph Sports, Atomic, Best Choice Products, EastPoint, Playcraft Sport, Harvil, Hathaway, and Viper. The products in this range can cost between $100 and $1200

For high-end products, good brands include Gold Standard, Valley-Dynamo, and Brunswick. Most of the products in this range can cost between $1200 and $10,000. Gold Standard tables, in particular, start from $3500.

Can you wax an air hockey table?

It is not necessary, but it can be useful. Waxing a table can help to keep the playing surface smooth and protect it from damage. If you decide to wax your air hockey table, make sure you use wax explicitly made for air hockey tables and keep the amount you use to the minimum. Too much, and you risk clogging the air holes and reducing the airflow consistency.

After applying a thin layer of wax on the surface, wipe off the wax with a dry, clean cloth. This simple process will lead to a shiny and smoother surface.

Final Verdict

Whether it’s for family or personal use, air hockey is a fun and useful table to decompress after a long day, or as a way to forge stronger social bonds. The hand to eye combination and skills needed to defeat an opponent is also a great way to develop cognitive skills. This gives air hockey the rare advantage of being useful to both children and adults. But like most things in life, the quality of an air hockey table increases as the price increases. This can be challenging for a lot of people. That is why we think the Triumph Lumen-X Lazer 6’ Interactive Air Hockey Table is an excellent choice. It is highly affordable, and it has most of the features of a high-end air hockey table.