Pool is a classic, chill game you can play with family and friends. However, buying a pool table is a significant investment. Hence, there are a lot of things to consider before getting one. One of the most important considerations is the table’s price. How much does a pool table cost?
It can be challenging to determine one specific cost since different pool tables have varying prices. That’s why this article will discuss what factors affect a pool table’s price to help you understand why some tables are priced the way they are. Moreover, the common price ranges of pool tables in the market are listed below to help you plan a budget for your shopping spree.
5 Factors Determining How Much a Pool Table Costs
The cost of a pool table is significantly affected by its distinct features and technical specifications. To understand why pool tables cost what they do, it's crucial to recognize the key factors influencing their prices.
1. Table Size
Pool tables come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 6 to 9 feet in length. It’s a well-known fact that as the size of a pool table increases, so does its price, regardless of the materials used in its construction.
This is primarily because larger tables require more materials, leading to higher production and distribution costs. The added weight of these materials further contributes to increased expenses in terms of delivery and handling. In essence, the larger the pool table, the higher its price due to these well-established factors.
2. Material
The materials used in making the pool table play major roles in determining the final cost of the table. As various components of the table are made from different materials, it is essential to understand how these specific materials play a vital role in determining the overall price:
Table Surface/Bed Material
This is one of the pool table’s most essential components. It can be made of two specific materials: slate or wood.
If a table uses slate, the slate’s thickness usually accounts for about 60% to 70% of the table’s total weight. It’s also a more expensive material since the rock slate mining and preparation process is lengthy. Moreover, tables are usually produced by hand by skilled artisans in some small companies, which makes the production process longer.
On the other hand, different kinds of wood are widely used in making pool tables. The table’s surface can be made of plywood or an engineered hardboard made from various wood fibers. These are cheaper than the slate and a better option if you have a tight budget.
Rail Material
The rail material also influences the price, and common rail materials include hardwoods, pressboards, and plastics. Generally, plastics are cheaper compared to hardwood rail.
Pocket Material
Even the pocket affects how much the pool table would be. Most pockets are made of leather or vinyl, which have different costs. Pool tables with real leather pockets cost more than tables with synthetic leather or vinyl pockets.
3. Table Quality
High-quality tables tend to be more expensive, often featuring legs made from natural wood, which is known for its durability and resistance to warping or damage over time.
4. Table Style
The pool tables today come in various styles, from traditional to modern and contemporary designs. It can even come in the shapes of different things, like cars. Depending on how simple or intricate the style is, the price of the pool table can increase or decrease.
For instance, most traditional pool tables are usually cheaper than modern ones. This is mainly because the traditional style has simple curvy lines, legs, and decorative fringes. On the other hand, a modern style has more unique elements.
5. Special Features and Customization
Depending on your preferences, pool tables also come with extra features or customization options. For example, you can pick a table with LED lighting or table markings and storage drawers. Compared to a standard pool table you’ll find in a local bar, customized pool tables will cost more.
Common Price Range of Pool Tables
After considering all the factors, pool table prices can be categorized into four main groups:
Low-Range Tables
These pool tables are ideally used temporarily, usually including kid pool tables. They’re mainly made with plastic and synthetic materials, which make the tables lightweight. Low-range tables can cost between $600 to $1,200 and are ideal for light pool plays.
Basic Economy Tables
These tables are made of slightly higher-quality materials and can cost between $1,200 to $2,100. They’re common in most homes and are usually considered entry-level pool tables. A basic economy table would be enough if you’ll only be playing pool once in a while.
Mid-Range Tables
If you’re a more serious player and want a permanent pool table in your game room, investing in a mid-range table would be ideal. These tables are usually found in pool halls and cost $2,100 to $3,500.
They’re made of extremely high-quality and grade materials, like hardwood, slate inserts, and high-grade felt. Moreover, some tables in this bracket allow you to select adjustments, like a felt or wood color.
High-End/Custom Tables
These custom tables cost at least $3,500 and can feature premium elements or materials anytime. They can be made from exotic woods or have intricate hand-carved designs. Ultimately, they’re made of materials of the highest quality.
These tables are usually added as statement pieces in a game room or as collectibles. Since they’re made of the best materials, high-end or custom tables are known as heirloom tables because they can last for generations.
You can get aged antique pool tables if you don’t want a brand-new high-end table. Many collectors consider these lifetime pieces, and they can cost at least $10,000.
Conclusion
Buying a suitable pool table to enjoy playing with your family and friends is ideal. But how much does a pool table cost? Remember, the price is an important factor you need to consider when buying a pool table. There are low-cost tables to high-end tables. To get a good idea of the cost, understand how factors like materials, quality, size, and customization affect the price.
If you’re searching for a good pool table, you can check out our billiard table collection. We have many quality pool tables with competitive prices that you can choose from!
