Buying a pool table is easier said than done. There are so many options that it quickly becomes overwhelming. Which size fits in your room? What is a fair price? And which material lasts the longest? This article provides answers to all those questions, step by step, without unnecessary detours.
Whether you are buying for your home, furnishing a game room, or just want to enjoy a game of pool after a long day, this guide helps you make the right choice.
Why a Pool Table Is a Smart Purchase
A pool table is more than just a piece of gaming equipment. It is the centerpiece of a home. Friends come over, the kids learn strategy, and you enjoy a game that combines relaxation and concentration.
Moreover, pool is a sport that is accessible to everyone, young and old, beginners and advanced players alike. And once you have your own table, you will quickly notice how often you use it. Much more often than you would expect, honestly.
The benefits of having your own pool table at a glance:
• Always available, no waiting times or costs at a pool hall
• Suitable for all ages and skill levels
• Enhances the atmosphere in a game room, garage, or living room
• Long lifespan with proper maintenance
• A good investment that provides years of enjoyment
What Size Pool Table Do You Need?
This is the first question you need to answer before looking at anything else. The size of the pool table determines everything: the playing experience, the space required, and also the price.
Overview of the most common sizes:
6ft pool table (182 x 91 cm) A compact table, ideal for smaller spaces. Suitable for children and beginners. Less depth in the game, but fine for home use if space is limited.
7ft pool table (213 x 122 cm) The most popular choice for home use. Enough
playing surface to really enjoy, but compact enough to fit in an average room. Beginners find it easier to play on this because the angles are easier to estimate.
8ft pool table (244 x 122 cm) The standard size in most pool bars and clubs. A step closer to professional play. It does require more space, so measure carefully before you order.
9ft pool table (274 x 137 cm) The professional size. Used in tournaments and pool clubs. Only suitable if you really have enough space and want to play seriously.
How much space do you need around the table?
Take into account at least 150 cm around the table on all sides. This is necessary to be able to make a normal stroke with a cue. Less space means you will regularly get stuck at the edge.
A handy rule of thumb: measure your room, subtract the length and width of the table, and check whether there is enough space left on each side for a full shot.
Types of Pool Tables: What Are the Differences?
Not every pool table is the same. The material of the playing field makes a big difference in quality, price, and lifespan.
MDF Pool Table
MDF stands for Medium Density Fibreboard. This is a compressed wood fiber board that serves as the playing surface. MDF tables are lighter, cheaper, and perfectly suitable for hobby players.
An MDF table is ideal if you just want to enjoy the game without spending a huge budget. The ball control is slightly less precise than with slate tables, but for home use, you will hardly notice the difference.
Advantages MDF:
• Lower purchase price
• Lighter weight, easier to move
• Suitable for beginners and hobby players
Disadvantages MDF:
• Less durable in the long term
• More sensitive to moisture and warping
Slate Pool Table
Slate is the high-quality material that professional players prefer. The playing surface is perfectly flat and remains that way even after years of intensive use.
The balls roll more smoothly, the control is more accurate, and the feel is simply different. It is truly a different level. A slate table is also heavier, which contributes to stability during play.
The rule of thumb in the pool world is simple: the heavier the table, the higher the quality.
Advantages slate:
• Excellent flatness and ball control
• Long lifespan
• Professional playing feel
• More stability
Disadvantages slate:
• Higher price
• Heavier and harder to move
Foldable Pool Table
A foldable pool table is perfect for people who want flexibility. The legs fold up, after which the table can be stored compactly. Ideal for those who do not want to reserve permanent space for a table.
What Type of Pool Do You Play?
Perhaps you are wondering: does the type of pool you play make any difference for the table choice? Yes, a little.
8-ball pool is by far the most well-known type. Seven solid balls, seven striped balls, the black ball as number 8, and a white cue ball. The goal is simple: be the first to sink your own balls into the pockets and the black ball last.
9-ball pool and 10-ball pool are less known variants where fewer balls are used. Slightly more technical, but also very fun to learn.
Most pool tables come standard with a set of balls for 8-ball pool. Always check this with your purchase, as not every supplier includes this automatically.
Pool Table Prices: What Should You Expect?
The price of a pool table varies greatly depending on size, material, and brand. Here is a general overview:
Global price range per category:
Entry-level MDF tables (6ft – 7ft): Suitable for beginners and children. Widely available under €500. A good starting option without major financial risk.
Mid-range MDF/slate tables (7ft – 8ft): The most popular category for home use. Prices are on average between €500 and €900. Good balance between quality and cost.
Premium slate tables (8ft – 9ft): For the serious player. Prices often start from €700 and can increase depending on the brand and finish.
Professional/tournament tables (9ft+): 12ft snooker tables also fall into this category. Prices are generally higher and depend on specifications.
At StrayShop you will find pool tables from well-known brands such as BuckShot, Buffalo, and Garlando, across all price ranges and sizes from 4ft to 12ft.
Which Brands Are Reliable?
Brand matters when it comes to a pool table. Cheap no-name tables look nice in photos, but often perform disappointingly in reality.
BuckShot
BuckShot is a popular brand among serious pool enthusiasts. Exclusively available at StrayShop, with models like the Manhattan 7ft, 8ft, and 9ft. Strong design, good playing characteristics, and available in MDF and slate versions.
Buffalo
Buffalo is an established name in the pool world. Known for solid construction and a wide range for both beginners and advanced players.
Garlando
Garlando has proven itself in multiple table sport categories. Not only pool, but also table tennis and foosball. Reliable quality with a good price-quality ratio.
Pool Accessories: What Do You Need?
Buying a pool table is just the beginning. Without the right accessories, you cannot play optimally. Here is what you should have in your home:
Basic accessories:
Cues: Choose a cue that feels comfortable in your hand. Length and weight are personal. Beginners do fine with standard home cues.
Cue rack: Keeps your cues neatly stored and protected.
Cover: Protects the playing surface against dust and damage. Essential if the table is not used daily.
Chalk: Provides grip between the cue and the ball. Always present at every professional playing level.
Brush: For cleaning the cloth. Regular brushing significantly extends the lifespan.
Ball set: Always check if a set is included with the purchase.
Handy extras:
Table tennis cover plates: A smart option if you also want to use the table as a table tennis table. BuckShot offers cover plates for both 7ft and 8ft tables, equipped with playing lines.
Snooker balls: If you also want to play snooker on your table.
How to Choose the Right Pool Table: Checklist
Ready to decide? Run through this checklist:
1. Measure your space and calculate if there is enough space around the table
2. Determine your budget and choose the best quality within that margin
3. Choose the playing surface: MDF for hobby, slate for serious use
4. Select the right size: 7ft is the best choice for most home users
5. Check if accessories are included with the purchase
6. Compare brands: choose well-known names such as BuckShot, Buffalo, or Garlando
7. Check the warranty and return conditions of the webshop
Delivery and Installation: What to Look Out For?
A pool table is not a package that you can just drop into your mailbox. Slate tables in particular are significantly heavy and require careful delivery.
At StrayShop, orders are delivered via our own transport or a specialized carrier for heavy and fragile goods. Delivery takes place to the first door or staircase, and for heavy packages, a helping hand may be requested during unloading.
Handy tips for delivery:
• Ensure the room where the table will go is clear and accessible
• Measure door widths and stair railings before ordering
• For tables requiring disassembly/demolition services: please mention this when ordering
• Schedule the delivery day so that you are home and can set up the table properly right away
Delivery time: on average 2 to 5 business days after placing the order.
Why Buy at StrayShop?
There are many webshops that sell pool tables, but not all providers are the same. StrayShop distinguishes itself on a number of concrete points.
What StrayShop offers:
• Showroom in Bemmel where you can try out products before purchasing
• Wide assortment of over 191 products in multiple categories
• Tables available from 4ft to 12ft
• Exclusive sale of the BuckShot brand
• Free shipping on orders over €50 (within the Netherlands)
• Delivery throughout Europe
• Multiple payment methods including iDEAL, PayPal, Visa, and more
• 14-day return policy
• Customer service reachable via phone, email, and WhatsApp
• Active discount promotions and regular offers
The showroom is open from Monday to Friday, giving you the chance to truly feel and test a table before making a decision. That is a major advantage compared to providers that only operate online.
Common Mistakes When Buying a Pool Table
Some mistakes are made time and time again. Here are the most common ones so you can avoid them:
• Not measuring the space: The table might fit, but there is no room left to take a shot.
• Only looking at price: A cheap MDF table can be fine, but a price that is too low is sometimes a sign of poor quality.
• Not buying accessories: A table without cues, chalk, or a cover is not complete.
• Ignoring brand: Not all tables are equal, even if they look identical in photos.
• Forgetting delivery circumstances: Stairs, a narrow hallway, or a high apartment can cause problems with delivery.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Pool Table Awaits
Buying a pool table doesn't have to be complicated if you know what to look for. Start with the space you have, choose a material that suits your skill level, compare the brands, and set a realistic budget.
Whether you opt for a compact 6ft MDF table for the kids, a 7ft BuckShot Manhattan for serious home use, or a full-sized 9ft slate table for tournament level, the right choice depends on your situation.
StrayShop has over two decades of experience in this market and offers a wide range with the possibility to experience everything first in the showroom in Bemmel. That provides confidence, both for the first purchase and for future additions in accessories and maintenance.
Take your time to browse the offer, compare models side by side, and make a choice that will give you years of pleasure.
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