Pool Table Buying Guide – How to Choose the Perfect Table for Your Home

Before you think about sizes, cloth, or construction, it helps to be clear about how the table will actually be used. Different households have different priorities:

For families & casual home use

If your table will sit in a shared living space or be used mainly for entertainment, you may value:

• A more compact size
• Affordable materials
• Easy installation
• Good looks that suit your décor
• Durable cloth that stands up to everyday use

MDF-bed tables can work well here, especially if space is tight or the table needs to be moved occasionally.

For serious players & long-term investment

If you want as close to pub-quality play as possible, a slate-bed table is the gold standard. These are built to last decades, not years, and offer the most consistent playing experience.

For multi-use rooms

If your table will share space with dining, work, or general living, you might consider:

• A dining-top conversion
• A modern style that blends with furniture
• Slimmer legs or contemporary designs

Knowing your use case makes the rest of the decision much easier — and narrows your choices to what genuinely fits your life.

When buying a pool table, the biggest difference isn’t size or style — it’s the bed material. The bed is the flat surface beneath the cloth, and it affects everything: ball roll, longevity, accuracy, and overall “feel.”

Slate Bed Tables (Premium Option)

Slate is the industry standard for professional pool and for good reason:

• Perfectly flat playing surface
• Stays level over time (properly installed slate doesn’t warp)
• Authentic play feel — true, consistent ball roll
• Extremely durable — lasts decades
• Higher resale value

A slate table is heavy, often delivered in pieces and assembled professionally. But that weight is exactly why they are so stable and reliable.

Choose slate if you want the best experience and long-term value.

MDF / Wood-Bed Tables (Budget-friendly Option)

MDF tables are lighter and more affordable. They’re a good option when:

• Space is limited
• The table may need to be moved
• It’s for kids, teens, or casual use
• You want a stylish table without the slate price

The trade-offs are:

• Ball roll isn’t as precise
• The surface can lose level over time
• Not recommended for very serious players

For many homes, MDF tables are perfectly suitable, just know what you’re getting so expectations are realistic.

The size of the table affects the way the game feels and also how comfortable it is to play around it. The most common sizes for home use are 6ft and 7ft but larger homes may have the space for 8ft and 9ft tables.

Typical uses

• 6ft: Best for smaller rooms, used in UK pubs with limited playing space.
• 7ft: Standard UK pool size for pub and home use. Ideal for most homes.
• 8ft: Good for larger rooms or serious players who want more space.
• 9ft: Full size American pool experience, ideal for dedicated games rooms with lots of space.

How much space do you need

You need enough clearance around the table to cue comfortably. First thing When looking at calculating the space needed the measurement should be based on the playing area rather then the total dimensions of the table. So for a 7ft table the actual playing service will be approximately 6ft x 3ft.

Exact amount depends on cue size, a standard cue length is 57" - 58". Based on this the simplest way to work this out is taking the table playing area plus around 5ft of space around all sides.

Example room sizes required

• 6ft table: Room of approximately 15 ft x 12 ft 5" (4.56 m x 3.79 m)
• 7ft table: Room of approximately 15 ft 9" x 12 ft 8" (4.79 m x 3.86 m)
• 8ft table: Room of approximately 16 ft 8" x 13 ft 2" (5.07 m x 4.02 m)
• 9ft table: Room of approximately 18 ft x 13 ft 11" (5.50 m x 4.23 m)

If your room is slightly smaller in one direction, you can still make it work by using a shorter cue in that area. Below are the most common cue lengths.

• 57 - 58" - standard length of a full size pool cue
• 48" - shorter than standard can be used by adults and children
• 36" - usually used by children but can be useful for adults when walls are within usual cue space.

If you would like to calculate the best room size for your space then take a look at our handy room size calculator.

British Pool Tables

British pool tables are the style most people know from pubs and clubs in the UK. They are designed for a more tactical game that rewards precision and control.

Key features

• Smaller balls (typically 2 inch)

• Supplied with red and yellow balls or a spots and stripes set

• Narrower and more curved pockets which require accuracy

• Napped wool cloth that gives more grip and allows players to add spin more easily

• Table sizes usually 6 ft or 7 ft although 8 ft models exist

• More compact design which suits typical UK home and room sizes

How it plays

British pool has a more controlled pace. The narrower pockets and napped cloth mean players rely on careful aiming, fine shot control and positional play. Many customers prefer this style for home use because it feels familiar and fits naturally into smaller spaces.

American Pool Tables

American pool tables provide a faster, more powerful style of play and are commonly seen in the United States. They are the choice for players who enjoy a more aggressive and open game.

Key features

• Larger balls (usually 2 1/4 inch)

• Spots and stripes sets by default

• Wider, sharper pocket openings which make potting easier

• Worsted cloth which is smoother and significantly faster

• Larger table sizes including 8 ft and 9 ft

• Chunkier, more modern designs often with broader rails and deeper frames

How it plays

American pool is quicker and more fluid. Balls travel faster and for longer distances. It is ideal for players who enjoy games like 8 ball, 9 ball or 10 ball. If you have a dedicated games room and want a table with real presence, an 8 ft or 9 ft American table makes a strong visual and performance statement.

Which One Should You Choose

Both styles are excellent but suit different preferences.

• Choose British style if you prefer precision shots, tactical play and a familiar pub feel. It also fits best into smaller UK rooms.

• Choose American style if you want a faster game, a larger playing surface and a modern, powerful look. It is ideal for dedicated game rooms and for players who enjoy the American rule sets.

Many buyers choose based on the type of pool they already play and the space available. Both options offer long term enjoyment when matched correctly to the room and player.

Cloth types

The pool cloth you choose plays a major role in how the balls behave on a slate table. It influences speed, accuracy, and overall play, making it important to select a quality cloth that suits your game.

Pool cloths generally follow either British or American specifications. American tables require a worsted, non-directional cloth with a high nylon content. British tables use a higher-wool, napped cloth that creates more drag for a slower game. Even though these are suited for certain tables we usually offer the choice of both cloth types.

Napped cloth (typical for British pool)
Has a slight texture. Slower but gives excellent control and suits red and yellow British balls.

Worsted cloth (common on American pool tables). Smooth, fast and very durable. This is what you find on high performance American tables.

Cushions and rails

Cushions (Rubber Bumpers)

• Correct cushion profile: Most modern pool tables use K-66; some use K-55 or U-23. Ensure the cushion profile matches the table’s rail design.
• High-quality rubber: Look for natural gum rubber for proper rebound and long life. Cheaper rubber often results in “dead” cushions.
• Correct nose height: The ball’s contact point should sit at the proper height (around 1⅜″–1⁷⁄₁₆″). Incorrect height leads to inconsistent or weak rebounds.
  

Rails (Wooden Rail Structure)

• Solid hardwood rails: These provide better stability, hold staples securely during reclothing, and deliver more consistent cushion performance than MDF or particleboard rails.
• Straight and secure: Rails should be firm, straight, and bolt tightly to the slate. Loose or warped rails negatively affect cushion response.
• Proper cushion installation: Cushions must be well-glued and aligned. Even high-quality rubber will perform poorly if installed badly.

All our pool tables come with free delivery and professional installation, ensuring a completely hassle-free experience. We highly recommend choosing a retailer that offers this service, as it protects your table during transit and guarantees an expert is setting up your pool table.

Many of our tables are handcrafted with custom options, so production and delivery can take up to 8 weeks. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process and confirm a delivery date as soon as it’s available.

Your table will be delivered by a two-man team. Slate-bed tables are heavy, typically over 200kg, so the team will place it in your chosen location, install it, level it, and ensure it’s fully ready to play. We use manufacturers delivery and installation teams so you can confident that the people setting up your table knows the product inside out.

Installation of slate tables

A slate table usually arrives in separate pieces. The installation team will:

• Assemble the frame
• Fit the slate and level it accurately
• Stretch and fix the cloth
• Fit the rails and cushions
• Check ball roll and final level

This process ensures the table performs exactly as it should.

Access requirements

One of the major considerations to prepare for delivery and installation is the accessibility to the area the pool table will be installed. Before ordering there are some questions that should be considered as the can affect the preparation the team will need to take.

• Is the room on the ground floor?
• Are there tight corners or staircases?
• Is there side access through a garden or garage?
• Are there obstructions such as radiators or fixed furniture?

Most companies will include installation for ground floor areas of properties without the need to access by stairs. For areas that involve at least one flight of stairs additional fees will apply. It's important that any restricted access or tight spaces to the delivery area are discussed so preparations can be made and the correct delivery service is chosen. This doesn't mean that the table can't be delivered but the restricted access may require a flat pack insulation, which is possible but usually comes with an additional fee.

Looking after the cloth

To keep the cloth in good condition:

• Brush the cloth regularly
• Avoid placing heavy objects on it
• Keep chalk dust to a minimum
• Cover the table when not in use
• Keep food and drinks away from the playing surface
• Napped cloth benefits from brushing in the direction of the nap to maintain smooth play.

Keeping the table level

Slate tables stay level very well, but if the floor settles or furniture is moved, a quick relevel by a professional may be needed. MDF tables may need more regular checks.

Cushion performance

Cushions should last many years, but extreme humidity, direct heat or damp conditions can shorten their lifespan.

Re cloth over time

Most tables will eventually need a new cloth. This is a normal part of ownership and can make an older table feel brand new again.

Before you buy, check:

• What size your room allows, including cue clearance
• Whether you prefer British or American style play
• Slate bed or MDF bed
• Cloth type and colour
• Cushion quality
• Style and finish of the table
• Accessories included
• Delivery times and access suitability
• Installation options
• Warranty and aftercare

Will my table fit through my doorway or up my stairs?

Most slate tables are delivered in sections, so they can be moved through tight access points. We will guide you if you have concerns about access.

Do I need to assemble the table myself?

Slate tables are normally installed by professionals. MDF tables and lighter designs can often be assembled at home with basic tools.

How long does installation take?

A full slate table installation usually takes between one and three hours depending on the model.

How do I keep the table level?

Slate tables hold their level very well. If you move the table or notice roll off, a quick adjustment by a technician will fix it. MDF tables may need occasional checks.

What accessories do I need?

Most buyers want at least two cues, a set of balls, a triangle, chalk and a table brush. A cover is recommended to protect the cloth.

Can I choose a different cloth colour

Yes. Many tables can be supplied in a wide range of cloth colours to match your room.

If you have any further questions or want to know more about what to look for when buying a pool table then our experts are on hand to assist you.