Finding a quality pool table that suits your needs and is also within your budget is no easy task. There are so many varieties to choose from and even worse, their prices differ so drastically. As such, trying to figure out why the cost of some tables is more than others can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, pool table cost can easily be broken down into several main areas.
I’m going to outline some of main factors that determine the price of a pool table. Once you are done reading this article you will be able to know and tell the difference between a $15000 pool table and a $1000 table.
Main Factors that Impact Pool Table Price
Table of Contents
Materials
The materials used to make a table have a big effect on its price. For most home models, the material used to make the bed (the surface that sits under the felt) and the frame is MDF. For tournament tables and most pool tables in bars as well as pool halls the material used to build the frame and the bed is slate.
MDF tables are cheaper and light, however slate is quite expensive and heavier which makes slate pool tables costlier. They are more durable with great playability. Despite this, you can still get a good regulation size pool table that is inexpensive.
The grade of the cloth or the felt used on the table is another major factor that will determine a pool table price. High quality felts are costlier and as such will push the price of the table up. Nonetheless, they can last quite a long time and offer the best playability. There are also some highly affordable tables that have smooth playing surfaces that are easy to play on and can withstand a lot of games before finally giving in.
Design
The design of a pool table may not necessarily make it better but it does add value to it and as such can affect the price mainly depending on the workmanship required or incurred in getting the table standing as well as the quality of the materials that were used.
A table with a simple, plain design might not cost as much as one with cool, attractive, ornate or funky design. So, pool table prices might vary depending on the workmanship employed in designing the table.
Pool Table Size
Pool tables vary in size ranging from tabletop tables to 9ft stand-alone tables. The larger the table the more materials used to build it which increases their price. You ought to consider the amount of space you have in order to get the right table.
Shipping Cost
Finally, the cost of moving and installing the table is a factor that cannot be overlooked. The size and weight of the table will determine the transportation cost from one point to another.
If the table is heavy, then it will be more expensive to move it around but a small and lightweight table will cost less to move around. The shipping cost is important because it reflects on the overall cost of the table.
Pool Table Price Range
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$3,500 to $20,000 – High End Tables
These are high quality pool tables made from exotic woods and have natural slate beds. They come with intricate designs and some even contain embellishments such as semi-precious gems spread around the table. This antique pool tables can cost around $10,000 to $20,000 and can last several generations.
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$1,800 to $3,500 – Mid-Range Tables
The tables within this range are of great quality too and ideal for home rec room, bars and even pool halls. They are equally made from high quality materials with attractive designs that can much most décors. You can expect tables within this range to have hardwood frame and railings, strong legs holding the table firmly in place and a felt that’s smooth and durable.
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$1,300 to $2,000 – Economy Tables
This range consist of tables that you are likely to find in most homes. The quality of materials used to on many of the tables is good and with proper care, they can last up to a decade. They are easy to setup and can occupy little space as some of them can be folded away.
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$600 to $1,300 – Decent Tables
If you have a tight budget but still want to enjoy a game of pool at home with your family or just to have fun with friends, then you might want to consider tables within this range. Here you can get several cheap pool tables which are not made from top quality materials but are well-built enough to offer great playability.
Most of these tables are made from MDF material which translates to their low cost. Generally they are purposely made for family fun and although they might not last longer than high end tables, with proper care they can go up to 5 years.
If you are thinking of getting a table within this range then we’ve even made the work easier for you. Check out our Four Well-Made Pool Tables under $1000. These four represent top quality within this category in terms of design, built quality and playability.
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Used Pool Tables
If you don’t want a new pool table, then buying a used one is another good option. You can find many second hand tables that have been well looked after and still have plenty of life left in them.
So, how much does a used pool table cost?
Well the price of a second hand table will depend on the condition of the table. You need to properly examine the table checking for cracks or splits in the wood, the bumpers if they are firm, and under the table to make sure the slate/MDF is not cracked anywhere. Doing so allows you to tell the true condition of the table which can help with negotiations on price.
With that said, a good used table can go for less than $1,200. However, the table can cost you an additional $350 beyond the sale price if it will need re-clothing and re-leveling plus also the transportation cost.
Second hand pool tables bear some other very little additional costs. You will have to invest in a cues and balls. A set of good quality pool balls can go for less than $100 while cues of decent quality can cost around $25 each. You will need brushes too for cleaning the surface and a proper brush can cost around $50.
The Bottom Line
Whether it’s new or used, a pool table cost will depend on the quality of the materials and workmanship required to get the table standing.
So, depending on the budget you are working with and with the above information in mind, you can pick up a good table that fits your exact needs. You can check our top four picks under $1000 if you are looking for affordable yet well-made home use tables.