I get asked all the time what I would look for if choosing a billiards table or a pool table. Over the years, I have heard people say things like ‘does it really matter, because a billiard table is a billiard table’. Unfortunately, that is not the case. There are a number of things to look for so you end up with a good quality product on your floor. Keep in mind the purchase of a billiards table is two-fold, one being the quality and the other, the playability.

To achieve the preferred results of quality and playability there are a number of components that you should be aware of. Let’s deal with the quality first. Now, quality we’ll put into two categories: material and workmanship.

Most tables made for home use will be manufactured from timber, usually polished as they are also a piece of furniture. The first thing to ascertain is what timber has been used. Hardwoods are the best. They will give longevity, which will give value for money with a better re-sale value. The two main parts where hardwood is most important are the legs and cushions (rails). The legs for stability and cushions for playability. It won’t matter how fancy the table looks you won’t play a single shot on any carving.