Man Cave Gamez Buyer’s Guide to Pool Tables
No game room, bar, or man cave is complete without a pool table, and there’s a table out there for any budget, space, or experience level. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option for kids and beginners, a sturdy piece to hone your pool playing skills for years to come, or just some good plain fun, here are the most important factors to consider when choosing the right pool table for YOUR man cave.
Types of Pool Tables
The four main types of pool tables are furniture style, bar style, portable, and mini.
Furniture style tables are common for home use. They are a sturdy option and come disassembled, making it easier to transport them through tight spaces. They also come in a variety of styles to match your décor.
As the name suggests, bar style tables are common in bars and businesses. They are the sturdiest model for long term, heavy use, and typically include a coin collection system. However, these tables are large, heavy, and come pre-assembled, so they are not a good option for tight spaces or lots of stairs.
Portable pool games come in a variety of sizes and are a great option for those with a limited budget or limited space. They typically are lightweight and made for tabletop use, making them easy to store and transport. They are a great option for kids, or beginner pool players.
Another great option for players of all ages are mini pool games, which can be small enough to store under a bed and require no assembly. However, due to their small size they aren’t the best option if you’re truly trying to hone your pool playing skills.
A Pool Table for Your Aesthetic
Pool tables aren’t just fun and games, they’re also statement pieces that command a lot of attention. If you’re especially particular about interior design, you may want to pay attention to pool table styles.
When you’re visualizing that perfect pool table in your space, chances are you’re seeing a classic style table. These are the most common, typically with green or red felt, a hardwood frame, and an elegant, antique style to the table legs.
Contemporary style tables differ slightly from the classic design. These tables typically include more minimalistic table legs, black or grey finishes rather than stained wood, and a wider variety of felt colors. Some higher end tables even feature LED lighting.
Taking space into account
This part might be the most important – measure your space!
It may seem obvious, but many first-time pool table buyers underestimate how much space they will need. Make sure that there is ample space for players to move around the table and position themselves for different shot angles. If you’re placing the table in a basement, try to avoid support beams that could interfere with the game.
Choosing a Sturdy Table
While portable and mini pool tables are typically made of wood and plastic, durability and materials are important to consider when shopping for a full-sized table.
Most furniture and bar style tables are made with a slate or wood playfield, so a sturdy frame and legs are a must. Steer clear of wobbly legs, and make sure the playfield has ample support to prevent sagging or unevenness down the road. The structure of the table must be able to support not just the playfield, but also the extra weight of players leaning on the table to make a shot.
This elegant pool table features interlocking interior support beams to deliver rigid rock-solid table stability. It’s the perfect option for long term use without sacrificing on interior design.