For many years, pool has been one of the most popular games to play socially. Whether you enjoy the game on a casual basis or take it more seriously, there’s no doubt this universally loved sport will continue to delight many people for years to come.
Because of its popularity and prestige, it’s natural to want to own your own pool table at home. Adding value, style, and a whole load of joy for you, family, and friends, investing in a pool table will never be a bad decision.
Before purchasing one, you must consider the room’s size. Measure the area you’ve designated for the table to determine what size of table you want, what will fit, and whether you need a more flexible option, like a table that doubles as a dining table.
Standard Size Pool Tables
There are three standard size pool tables: 7’, 8’, and 9’. With each size possessing its own strengths, determining which of these tables to purchase depends on the dimensions of the room you want to put it in.
7’ Pool Tables
The most familiar pool tables known to the general public, these models are most commonly found in bars and pubs. Also known as a “bar box,” these 7 ft. tables usually have coin-operated fixtures.
The dimensions of a 7’ pool table are:
- Table size: 3.5’ x 7’
- Playable surface: 39” x 78”
8’ Pool Tables
These tables are perfect for tournaments; however, many people also consider them ideal for standard pool tables. Commonly seen in the tournament and league circles, people who have more room space often invest in these size tables. Referring to them as “home 8” tables, they are prevalent among families who love to play pool.
The dimensions are of an 8’ pool table are:
- Table size: 4’ x 8’
- Playable surface: 44” x 88”
9’ Pool Tables
These pool tables are the models you see on TV during tournaments and professional play. If you want the pro pool experience, then 9’ tables are a perfect choice, but only if you have enough room to place it.
If you are only playing the game casually, it’s probably not the best idea to invest in a 9’ table. Since they can be pricey and take up a lot of space, you should only purchase one if you are serious about the game and want to play professionally.
The dimensions of a 9’ pool table are:
- Table size: 5’ x 9’
- Playable surface: 50” x 100”
How to Calculate How Big Your Room Needs to Be
When choosing what size pool table to buy, room size is a crucial factor you need to think about. Not only will you require space to move around the table with ease, but you’ll also need a good amount of room for your shot stroke.
With this in mind, consider the length of your pool cue, as this is important when calculating the smallest room size. Follow the cue times 2 method to determine how big your room needs to be for your dream pool table.
- A standard pool cue measures around 57” – 58” in length. To determine room size, double the cue measurements. For a standard pool cue, you’ll get 114” after doubling its length.
- Next, measure the width of the playfield of your potential table, doing so from each cushion’s inside edges.
- Add the total playing width to the measurement of the double cue length. For example, if the playing field’s width is 32.2”, add it to the 114” to get the final number of 146.2”, which is how wide the room needs to be.
- Follow the same steps again, focusing on the length, measuring from cushion to cushion. If you are using the example given, the length of the playfield is 63”. When adding the 114” cue measurement, you need a space at least 177” long.
- The final results you come up with tell you the smallest space you can place your pool table in. If you aren’t sure which size to get, use this method on several options to determine which table fits best in your home.
How to Save Space
If you’re adamant, you want to buy a pool table, but you know you’re limited when it comes to space, you can implement some space-saving techniques to make it easier for you.
These options primarily apply to those who want to play pool on a casual basis, since if you want to take the game more seriously, you should invest in a full table.
Combining functionality, saving space, and adding a touch of class and quirkiness to your home, there are pool tables that double as a dining table. Acting as a pool table by day and a place to relax and eat your dinner by night, you get the best of both worlds with these models.
Many of these designs combine industrial design with a rustic flair. If you’re desperate for a pool table but don’t have the room and need a dining table, these pool tables are ideal. Not only do they maximize your space and provide awesome functionality, but they are also excellent choices for those who have open plan living rooms.
Alternatively, if you’re a lover of all game room games, why not purchase a combined games table? Most tables come with pool, air hockey, and table tennis and are usually smaller than standard sized tables. Perfect for a game room, these tables enable you to play endless games of pool for years to come.
Picking the Right Size Pool Table For Your Room: Final Thoughts
By working out these dimensions, you’ll be able to determine the best sized pool table for you, all while being able to play games comfortably and with ease.
Before clicking buy, you should also contact the seller of your pool table regarding delivery services. Pool tables are large objects, even before assembly. In the majority of cases, there are no problems; however, if the table needs to go around tight corners, up or down stairs, or past obstacles, it’s best to check with your seller to see if it will fit.
What are you waiting for? Get measuring your room so you can purchase your dream pool table.