Pool table sizes can be quite confusing. If you are shopping for a pool table, you will find British pool tables and American pool tables offered in different sizes with balls and cues to suit. Which one you choose depends on a number of factors.
English pool tables are usually 6ft x 3ft, or 7ft x 4ft. This is considerably smaller than the American pool tables, harking back to the introduction of pool in Britain in the 1960s. Snooker was already being played in dedicated snooker rooms around the UK, but pool was brought into the many pubs where space was at a premium. Patrons playing darts and standing at the bar did not leave room for the big American tables that originated in large pool halls, so the tables were made smaller to fit the space available.
Because English pool tables were smaller, the balls were made smaller too – 2 inches in diameter rather than the 2 and ¾ inch balls used in American pool. Cue tips were narrowed down from 12 to 13mm to the 8 or 9 mm standard with English pool tables today. The size of the pockets in English pool tables is also smaller, with a different type of cushion to that found in American pool tables. The English Pool Association regulation size is 7ft, and this is the size of tables used in competition in the UK.
American pool tables vary, and they can be found in 7ft, 8ft, 9ft and even 10ft lengths. The 9ft table is considered a full-size American pool table. American pool was played in pool halls and large homes where there was ample space to accommodate these large tables.
English pool takes the form of eight ball pool, which is played with seven red and seven yellow balls, and the eight ball – a black ball. Each player must pocket all the balls in their respective colour and then the eight ball in order to win. Nine ball pool is played with nine balls that are racked in a diamond rather than a triangle. The object of nine ball is to pocket the balls in no particular order, until someone pockets the nine ball. American pool is played with balls marked with spots or stripes. Today the different varieties of the game are mixed together and played on either table.
When selecting a pool table for your home, there are two main factors to consider. The first is the size of the room you want to put the table into. It is generally recommended that you have at least 5 ft of space around the table. If you want a 7ft table, the room will have to be at least 17ft long to accommodate players and cues.
Your second consideration should be the players. If you are buying the table for your family, and you have young children, a 7ft table is going to make it difficult for them to play. You can get kids pool tables of 4ft 6in and 5ft lengths, but these might not give adults an enjoyable game. A 6ft table is a good size for a family table and will give both adults and kids hours of enjoyment.
A smaller table is better for beginners too, as it is easier to play when the distances are not too large. A smaller distance to cover with each shot also allows for more error in angles, making it easier for beginners to play pool.
Pool cues come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses to suit people of different heights. Most English pool tables are installed with 48 inch pool cues as standard equipment. Young children will benefit from smaller, shorter and lighter cues. A full size cue is 57 inches long, and can be difficult to work with in a small room. Unless you are a seasoned player with a particular preference, start with the cues supplied with the table before spending money on other sizes.
Although pool table sizes vary greatly, you will have to settle for the pool table that fits into the area you have available in your home. It is better to have a smaller pool table and be able to play and move around It comfortably, than to have to adjust your angle of play to avoid hitting the walls with the back end of the cue.
