Best Pool Tables Review

You’ll certainly agree with us that a pool table is a valuable part of a recreation room, man cave, or a place where people enjoy relaxation and fun. It is also true that buying a new pool table, whether it is your first time or you’re on a budget, can be stressful.

To solve this problem, we have taken it upon ourselves to do the hard work for you and compiled five of the best pool tables you can buy on the market today. We cover everything you need to know, including the pros and cons of each product.

Now that we have explored the best products you can buy, let us take a more in-depth look at each one, along with two other quality options. You’ll also get more information on areas such as the design specifications, pros, cons, etc. By the time you are done running through this review, your choice would have been well guided so you can make an easy pic.

Best Pool Tables 2020 – Top 5 Review

  1.   EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table Review

One of the first things that jump at you when you see the EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table is its appearance. This classy and elegant design choice gives it a timeless style, so you don’t have to worry about your table looking old in a few years. But that’s not the only reason we think the EastPoint is the best pool table you can buy.

When buying a pool table, durability is high on the priority list, and this table excels in that aspect in more ways than one. The traditional parlor style drop pockets happen to be covered. Also, not every part of the table is made of wood, but the parts that are, happen to be coated with LusterLong scratch resistant finish. This protects it from scratches and wear, in turn, keeping your pool table looking new for years.

One downside of the Eastpoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table is the legs. They are made of plastic, which dampens things on the durability front. However, it boasts of a clawfoot design, with leg levelers hidden inside. And even though the legs might not be wooden, they look great, and you’ll get a good run out of them as long as they are properly maintained.

What’s more, the functionality of the EastPoint table is another reason why it is a great choice and it has high performance K-66 rubber bumpers that ensure consistent bounce all over the playfield. Also, the leg levelers also mean you don’t have to worry about a tilted table and even though it could take up to 2 hours and more, assembling this table is relatively easy. Lastly, it comes with all the accessories you need, and as such, you can enjoy this pool table right out of the gate, all for less than a thousand dollars.

Features

1. Claw leg design with leg levelers
2. k-66 rubber bumpers
3. Playing accessories
4. Parlor style leather drop pockets
5. Rich wood color

Here’s an affordable, durable, and fun pool table, – the EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table comes with all the playing accessories at such a pocket-friendly price.

  2.   Mizerak Donovan II 8” Billiard Table

This pool table is one of the best you can buy because you get the experience of a high-end table without actually paying for one. It is a well-made table with a design perfect for the 21st-century pool lover.

At 82 inches, it is smaller than the EastPoint which might be a dealbreaker if you’re looking for a standard size table. However, it makes up for it with its classy red and black design. This comprises a red-colored felt, a black cabinet, with chrome-accented corners.

The Mizerak Donovan II 8’ Billiard Table is not just about flashy presentation. You can expect an enjoyable playing experience thanks to its disk-style leg levelers. So, whether you are buying the Slate or Slatron bed, the levelers ensure an even surface.

In terms of durability, unlike the EastPoint, this pool table has a metal frame, with rails and a laminate cabinet. Not only does that contribute to its excellent look, but it also guarantees a lifetime of use. However, it takes a minute to assemble, especially if you buy the Slate version, but it is worth the time and energy.

All in all, the Mizerak Donovan costs a few bucks more than the EastPoint. But it equally comes with every accessory you need, including two cues, as such, you only have to spend your money once to have a pool table in the comfort of your home.

Features

1. Chrome-accented corners
2. Disk-style leg levelers
3. Metal frame
4. Slate or slatron surface
5. Complete playing accessories

The Mizerak Donovan II 8’ Billiard Table is a mid-range quality pool table perfect for those after a fresh modern design without necessarily splurging for a high-end price.

  3.   Harvil Beachcomber Indoor Pool Table 84 Inches

At 231.5 pounds, The Harvil Beachcomber Indoor Pool Table is heavy. But that is because it comes with dense fiber wood, which is one of the most durable options on the market. Altogether, it is a well-designed table with a modern style that will be a great addition to your home, fitting thanks to its relaxed vibe.

The Beachcomber’s sturdy construction is among the many reasons we consider it one of the best pool tables you can buy. Aside from the high-density durable wood, it has a wood grain finish, which prevents scratches and wears. It also has dense fiber wood legs, capable of handling substantial weight.

Playing on the Harvil Beachcomber Indoor Pool is also an enjoyable experience, thanks to a few features like the Tetolon tablecloth. The cloth itself is a high-quality material that allows balls to roll smoothly and quickly across the table. It also has rubber bumpers for excellent ball bounce as well as six drop pockets fitted with chrome silver rail corners which contribute to the table’s relaxed aesthetic and also ensure the players don’t get hurt from sharp edges.

Like the other tables in this list, it is a complete package with all the necessary playing accessories. It also has leg levelers, guaranteeing a leveled playing surface, regardless of the smoothness of the room.

Features

1. Tetolon cloth playing surface
2. Rubber bumpers
3. Chrome silver rail corners
4. Dense fiber wood design
5. Leg levelers

This is an excellent, highly durable table for casual use. It might cost a bit more than other options, but its stylish design guarantees it will be a part of your game room for years to come.

  4.   Harvil Bellagio Slate Table 8-Foot

If you are looking for something with the class, elegance, and timeless design, then consider the Harvil Bellagio. You will have to shell out a few extra bucks, but we are confident you will get your money’s worth. It is a high-quality table with a classic design that would not look out of place in a mansion or a basic rec room.

It has a strong, dense wood frame, down to its hand-carved ball claw legs. It also has Birch Veneer and comes with a scratch-resistant port finish. You’ll also appreciate the highly durable hardwood railings, and its playing surface comes with a 1-inch thick slate, which also has quality felt.

This is quite a heavy piece of equipment at 671 pounds, not just because it is made entirely of wood, but it is a standard size pool table. As such, it is great for anyone who wants a full pool table experience, casually or professionally. The felt here is made of a blend of wool and nylon and comes in four colors. It’s also bathed in a stain-resistant solution, ensuring little maintenance effort while giving you smooth and quick ball movement.

Other functional features of the Bellagio include K66 rubber bumper cushions as well as parlor-style drop pockets with a shield. It also comes with a premium set of accessories that include a Tally Shaker Bottle and four pieces of 58-inch Billiard Cues.

Finally, the Harvil Bellagio Slate Pool Table comes with professional installation, so you don’t have to worry about the assembly process. Just pay and play.

Features

1. Dense fiber wood with birch veneer construction
2. Standard size
3. Premium accessories
4. Professional installation
5. Elegant and timeless design

The Harvil Bellagio is costly. But for anyone looking for a high-end pool table with all the high-quality attendant features to go with it, it is worth buying.

  5.   Imperial Outdoor Table Review

A list about the best pool tables you can buy would be incomplete without an outdoor pool table option, and there’s no better option than the Imperial Outdoor Pool Table. Made by Imperial, a company that has been in business for more than 80 years, you are guaranteed to reap your investment in this table. However, it is not a cheap investment, but it is not without reason.

The Imperial Outdoor Pool Table is coated with anodized aluminum, from the rails to the feet. This prevents rust and wear which is a significant challenge for wooden materials. The tabletop equally has a Camel-colored taclon cloth, which is resistant to wear because it is waterproof. Even better, the weather-resistant design extends to the bed board and also comes with 140 Formica sheets and polyester resin and all of this ensures the durability of your table.

If you are wondering whether the change in materials will affect the gameplay, it won’t. Like its indoor counterparts, it still has K66 rubber bumpers and large disk-style leg levelers for an even playing surface and equally comes in a standard size, so it is an ideal table for amateur and professional players.

One other feature of the Imperial Outdoor Pool Table is its assembly, it actually comes 95% assembled out of the box. All you need is to bolt the legs and play using the accompanying accessories, including a set of polyester balls.

Features

1. Waterproof tabletop
2. Anodized aluminum design
3. Large disk-style leg levelers
4. Complete playing accessories
5. K66 rubber bumpers

Imperial Outdoor Pool Table offers excellent value for money for those looking for an indoor table that can comfortably double as an outdoor table. It is expensive, but the features and durability more than justify the price.

Best Pool Tables – Buyers’ Guide

What are some things to look for when buying a pool table?

The abundance of brands and types of pool tables can make it difficult to determine the ideal table for your rec room, house, or commercial space. One way to avoid getting overwhelmed is to know what you need to look out for in a pool table and arrange them in order of priorities to streamline your options. Here are some of the features and qualities you need to look for when buying a pool table.

Size

Pool tables range from 6 to 12 feet, so there are plenty of options for you when deciding on the right size for your playroom. Nevertheless, most people tend to go for pool tables within 6 feet to 9 feet. You should note, however, that when looking for the right size, you should also consider the amount of space you would need for cueing.

Cues come in different sizes ranging from 36 inches to 57 inches. The longer the cue, the larger the amount of space you will need around your pool table. Therefore, when buying a pool table, make sure you go for a size that strikes the right balance with your preferred cues.

As a piece of advice, experts recommend a table with a minimum room size of 350cm by 273cm for the minimum table size of 6 feet and 36 inches cues.

Slate

The most important quality you now need to look out for after size is the pool table’s bed, referred to as the slate. You will find plenty of pool tables with alternative bed materials like slatex, slatron, fiberboard, plywood, honeycomb, and more. None of them will offer the functionality and durability of a slate.

Slate bed pool tables come in different thickness levels which is anything between an inch, 7/8-inches, 3/4 inches, and more. The 1-inch slate is the most accurate and delivers the truest playing experience. That is why it is the official thickness of tournament tables. Nevertheless, it is quite expensive and usually only found in high-quality pool tables. However, if you can afford it, it is advisable to go for it.

If it is out of your reach, you can settle for a slate bed with ¾ inch thickness. It is less expensive and much lighter, but its reduced cost also comes with reduced accuracy and durability.

Frame

The frame is the structure that brings all the components of a pool table together and keeps the slate in place and prevents it from losing its shape over time. Today, depending on your preferences, you are likely to find frames made of solid wood or fiberboards. In this case, unlike the playfield bed, there is not much difference between both. Both of them offer the essential qualities you need in a frame – stability and durability.

Also, there are a few types of frames, like The Choice Frame, Elite Frame, and Ultra Frame. The difference between them is mostly a matter of design style.

One other factor you should note when picking out a frame for a pool table is the size of your slate. A larger slate will require more framing. So, make sure your choice of frame is perfect for the thickness of your slate.

Legs

Just like the human body or your sitting furniture, the legs of your pool table holds the bulk of its weight. Furthermore, it takes on additional weight while it is in use, as players rest on it to take a shot or wait for their turn. Thus, significant consideration should be made to the legs while picking out a pool table.

There are two types of legs – the Post or Perfect Legs and Industry Standard or Two-Piece legs. The former is made of solid wood from the slate to the feet of the table. Compared to the other type of legs, it offers a lot more reliability and durability as players spend more time with the pool table.

The Industry Standard or Two-Piece legs also has two kinds – the Single Anchor System and the Quad Anchor System. Both have lesser durability and reliability, but the Single Anchor System is particularly guilty of this. It uses a single nut and bolt combination and loosens its grip over time. The Quad Anchor System offers four nuts and both combinations, which keeps the legs secured a lot longer.

Cloth or felt

The cloth or felt of a pool table is the material that covers the playing surface. Despite the kind of pool table you are buying, you’ll either be getting a cloth or felt-covered table. Felts are typically made from a blend of wool and nylon and coated in Teflon. What the  Teflon material does is to make the fabric stain-resistant and easy to clean.

When you are picking out a pool table, consider the quality of the fabric. Not all materials are suited for gameplay, you want something primed for speed and traction. In this regard, some people consider worsted cloth (made from wool) a better option.

Whichever option you pick durability is essential. Experts advise that for cloth or felt to last; it must weigh at least between 18-22 ounces per yard.

Rails and cushions

Other qualities you want to pay attention to when you are looking for a pool table are the rails and cushions. They happen to be one of the most critical parts of the table because they contribute to the gameplay and the table’s ease of use. For those that don’t know, the rails are the horizontal bars around the playfield while the cushions are inside the rails. They receive the most contact when a table is in use.

The best kind of rails have solid wood and are connected to the frame and slate. This is necessary because they provide the cushions with the right structure for an excellent bounce. As for the cushions, although there are two main kinds – synthetic and natural gum rubber, you should go for a table with the latter. They provide predictable bounce and can last as long as the table itself.

Pockets

When considering pockets, the only thing worth noting is their construction. The best pool tables have leather pockets. You’ll typically find them among residential pool tables, which can be expensive. Although, you can always find them among affordable options like the EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table.

Other kinds of materials include plastic, which you’ll mostly find among inexpensive and poor-quality pool tables, as well as, rubber pockets that are used for commercial pool tables. If durability is a priority for you, you should only consider tables with leather or rubber pickets.

Ease of set-up

Ease of setup is another important consideration when buying a pool table – whether you plan on setting up your table for life or plan on disassembling it on multiple occasions. Unless you are buying an outdoor pool table, which tends to come preassembled out of the box, then you should prepare for a fair amount of onsite work. Nevertheless, you could simply go for tables that have a straightforward assembly process or budget the extra cost for professional installation. The exception to this is if you’re familiar with pool table design or have an engineering mind.

If you plan on setting it up by yourself, you should also make sure that they come with all the necessary tools. Further, make sure they have a reliable customer service system in case you have any complaints.

What are the benefits of having a pool table at home?

Owning a quality pool table does not come cheap, even more, it takes a sizable space in your home. As such, it is worth wondering why it is worth the hassle. Here are a few reasons why you should buy one for your home.

Quality parent-child time

One of the greatest benefits of having a pool table in your home is improving the bond between you and your children. An activity you can share with your child in the comfort of your home will help facilitate a deeper relationship between both of you.

You can spend your evenings or free afternoons enjoying a game or two, during which you and your child get to learn more about each other.

Health benefits

Another great benefit of having a pool table in your home is healthy. Not many people think a simple game of pool will have health implications, but it does, and quite substantial ones too. For one, playing pool helps improve your hand-eye coordination, which is an integral part of brain development.

Having a pool table in your home allows you and your family easy access to improving an essential aspect of your brain’s function. The more you play, the more you activate all four brain hemispheres, enhancing your cognitive function. It also helps you build strong focusing skills.

Aside from the benefits to the brain, having a pool table in your home also helps your physique. Spending a reasonable amount of time walking around the table, stretching for shorts helps you exercise body parts like your legs, back, and hips. Posing for shots can also improve your flexibility and balance.

Excellent entertainment for guests

A pool table as part of a dedicated game room also means being better suited to entertain your guests. Everyone enjoys having a bit of fun and a pool table in your home offers that at a little cost. Also, having a pool table in your home gives you and your friends a relaxed atmosphere to catch up, share stories, and develop a strong human connection.

An extension of this is the party element. A pool table in your home is like having a bar in your home. There you can host friends, laugh and have a great time, all in the comfort of your space.

Improves your competitive spirit

Playing games, in general, is an excellent way to enhance your competitive spirit. Nevertheless, there are very few games that offer the combination of ease, durability, and skills required like a game of pool. Having a pool table in your home is an excellent way to improve your competitive spirit through self-training or challenging your family members and friends with friendly wagers.

Plus, if you are a professional or amateur player, a table at home is like living with a coach. The easy access to the table will improve your skills as a player and make you a better competitive player.

Better social interaction skills

If you have poor communication skills or you’re not so great at interacting with people, a pool table in your home can help improve those qualities. Because of the game’s ability to activate all parts of your brain, you are in a better position to be more engaging with your friends and family members.

Other benefits of having a pool table in your home include interior decoration. A beautiful table can spruce up the house and give it a great look. Even more, depending on the kind of pool table you buy, a pool table can serve other functions. It can double as a dining or even a poker table.

What are the different types of pool tables?

Once you have decided to buy a table, one thing you should note is, there are different types of pool tables. Each of them has its benefits and as such, you should pick out one that best fits your preferences. In total, there are four types of tables – Standard, Conversion, Table Top, Bumper, and Folding.

Standard – A standard pool table is the most popular type of table you will find on the market. Nevertheless, they are meant for only one thing – play pool. Although people take advantage of their sturdiness and quality for other activities, such as dinner, you should avoid putting a standard pool table through different kinds of stress. Standard tables usually come in large sizes and can be made from a range of materials, like slate, wooden, or metal.

Conversion – One type of pool table that is on the rise is the conversion pool table. Conversion tables are perfect if you have limited space and can also be your dining or craft table. Some of them can also be used for other games, like table tennis or hockey. If you need a flexible pool table, then you should consider Conversion Pool Tables.

Table Top – Table Top pool tables are smaller sized tables that can fit in an office for a quick relaxing game during a long day. They are also great as a way to introduce children to the game. Ultimately, whatever your reason is, if you require a portable table, a tabletop is the type of pool table for you.

Bumper – Pool table shares similarities with billiards, and sometimes you want to play billiards instead of a traditional pool. Bumper Pool Tables cater to this need. They make it easy for you to play both kinds of Cue sports without having to change anything about the table. Another characteristic of a bumper table is the size. Although it’s bigger than a tabletop, they are smaller than a standard pool table and can fit into smaller rooms. They are also better suited to handling other activities like dinner/drinks with friends or poker night.

Folding – A Folding Pool Table offers better mobility above all else. From the name, it’s obvious they have a folded design, which allows you to pack away when not in use. This is a good option for people and families who enjoy the game of pool but lack the extra room for a bigger, more permanent table. But if space is a challenge and high-quality mobility and flexibility is a priority, then you should consider buying a folding pool table.

FAQ

How much does a good quality pool table cost?

Depending on your budget and the quality of materials you want, a good quality pool table can range from $1000 to more than $15,000. Also, different factors contribute to the price of a pool table, like the felt material, thickness of the slate, and the frame material or design.

• $600 – $1200: At this range, you are likely to find tables designed primarily for casual use. They are made with cheaper materials, like low-quality slate or a different type of playfield surface. The frame comes with cheap wood or other kinds of low-cost materials, incapable of heavy and durable use. Although you might find some gems in this price range, like EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table, they are rare. Tables in this range are typically best for young children.
• $1200 – $2000: You will find plenty of good quality tables at this range. A lot of them can last for more than a decade, but be sure you are buying one made with quality materials. For the most part, people tend to purchase pool tables in this price range.
• $2000 – $3500: There are more good quality tables in this price range. Many of them are made with high-quality materials accompanied by great design and if you want a pool table that lasts a lifetime, with all the elegance and class you want, you should go for pool tables in this price range.
• $3500 – $15000: Beyond $3,500, you are looking at luxury tables made with timeless materials and are also highly customizable with exotic woods and precious gems. So, if you want to buy a family heirloom, a table to last generations, then this is the price range for you.

Ultimately, whatever your budget is, you are bound to find something that fits your needs, even if it is just for a couple of years.

Should I buy a new or used pool table?

Even though some people have been lucky to find excellent used tables, it is almost always better to buy a new table. There are several benefits to purchasing a new table. For one, you will be getting what you paid for. A new pool table comes with no hidden problems, and everything is still in perfect condition. Another benefit is professional installation since you are likely to have it installed by more knowledgeable folk.

Finally, the warranty can range from a couple of months to years. Considering the only significant upside to a used table is the possibility of buying a high-quality table for cheap, it is advisable to buy a new pool table.

What’s the best brand of pool tables?

Depending on what you can afford, there are plenty of excellent pool table brands on the market. From luxury brands to mid-range and economy brands, there is a host of options to pick from.

Luxury brands – diamond billiards, brunswick pool tables, olhausen billiards, plank and hide co., gabriel billiards, etc

Mid-range – harvil, empire billiards, shelti, fusion tables, barrington billiards, imperial, presidential billiards

Economy – eastpoint, fat cat pool tables, hathaway, mizerak, minnesota fats

What is the regulation size pool table?

Unlike other table games, the regulation size of a pool table refers more to the geometry of the playfield than a fixed number of width and length. A regulation size pool table must have a length that is twice the measurement of the width. In that regard, there are three popular sizes of regulation pool table

Bar Size – this is the table you’ll often find in bars and clubs. They are 39 inches by 78 inches and are also called 7 feet tables.

Standard Size – it is the most common dimension in homes and private residences, especially in the United States. It is 44 inches by 88 inches and often called an 8-feet table.

Tournament Size – Official billiards or pool tournaments are played on a 50 by 100 inches table. The size makes it a lot harder to play on this table, which is why it is common among professionals. It is often referred to as a 9 feet table.

What pool table size should I buy?

The right size of a pool table for you depends entirely on the available space you have. While the biggest table will fit most rooms, few of them offer enough room for players to move around and shoot. When considering the right table size for you, you should also consider the size of cues you intend to use (48, 52, and 58 inches). Once you have settled on your cue size, that’ll point to the table size best suited for you. Generally speaking, if you have a large room, you should go for a large table, a standard or tournament size. They are better at improving your pool table skills.

What’s the best quality material for a pool table cloth?

The pool table cloth, or felt, determines the quality of a table’s gameplay. It equally influences the speed and accuracy of play. There are two kinds of pool table cloth – Woolen Blend and Worsted Cloth. Both of them (if you buy a good one) are quality materials for a pool table. The only difference is they offer different results in terms of gameplay.

Woolen Blend – it is made of at least 60% wool and features a nylon blend. It is common among tables made purely for recreational purposes. The ball is slower on woolen clothes, and shedding is an issue, but they are more than good enough for casual players.

Worsted Cloth – This cloth is made out of woven fabric. It is better suited for professional players or those searching for a lot more zip in their gaming experience. The ball rolls much faster on worsted cloth and doesn’t shed. It is way more expensive and usually used in official tournaments.

How long does a pool table cloth last?

The durability of a pool table cloth is entirely dependent on the quality of the fabric and your ability to maintain it and keep it from unnatural damage. A Worsted Cloth will last for years without significant maintenance cost while Woolen Blends also last, but a little less. If you are buying a woolen blend, make sure it has at least 90% wool for it to last as long as the table.

How do I clean the table?

You can use a cloth or a napkin to clean the table, especially if the stain is liquid. A dry cloth soaked in cold water is enough to soak up the liquid and clean the spot. Do not rub back and forth to keep the direction of the tabletop’s grain.

If you are dealing with a more stubborn stain, you should soak the cloth in a mixture of dish soap and white vinegar to clean the stain off the table. Instead of soap and vinegar, you can buy commercial cleaners like Game Room Guys Pool Table Felt Cloth Cleaner. As for the rest of the table, depending on the material of the frame, a simple wipe with a clean, slightly damp cloth is good enough.

You can also use a soft bristle brush to brush dry dirt off the table gently. Or, simply use the brush that comes along with the table or buy one yourself.

How frequently should It be cleaned?

It depends on how you use your table. Once a week, if you are a casual user, and twice to three times a week if you are a heavy user. However, this applies only to the table. Playing accessories like your cues and the balls should be cleaned after every use.

One other way to ensure the durability of your table is to buy a table cover. A good cover can also reduce the frequency of cleaning and protect your table from damaging stains.

Can you vacuum pool table felt?

You should vacuum your pool table’s felt, especially if you leave a lot of chalk on the table. However, you cannot use just any random vacuum cleaner. It has to be a gentle cleaner with a non-rotating brush. You should also avoid a cleaner with a straight suction, as it can pull the felt and damage the surface of the table.

Final Verdict

As far as indoor table games go, pool tables are one of the best options you can buy. They are a constant source of family and personal fun, and also have significant health benefits like improving your brain functions and general physique. But getting a quality pool table can be overwhelming. There are plenty of factors to consider, and a lot of them can be costly. That is why we think EastPoint Sports Masterton Billiard Pool Table is a great product. You will find it is a durable, high-quality table with all the accessories you need to set up and play, all at an affordable price.