Quick answer: The three common pool table sizes are 7 foot, 8 foot, and 9 foot. The playing area is always twice as long as it is wide. A 7 foot table has a playing area of about 78 by 39 inches, an 8 foot table about 88 by 44 inches, and a 9 foot table about 100 by 50 inches. Bars often have 7 foot tables, and pro events use 9 foot tables.
If you are buying a table or just want to know what you are playing on, size matters. Here is a simple guide.
The Three Common Sizes
| Table | Playing area (about) | Where you see it |
|---|---|---|
| 7 foot | 78 x 39 inches | Bars, leagues, small rooms |
| 8 foot | 88 x 44 inches | Many homes |
| 9 foot | 100 x 50 inches | Pool halls, pro events |
Exact sizes can change a little from one maker to another. The outside of the table is bigger than the playing area because of the rails.
Why the 2 to 1 Shape?
Pool tables are made twice as long as they are wide. That gives two equal squares on each half of the table. The diamonds on the rails mark these sections and help players with bank shots and kick shots.
How Much Room Do You Need?
You need space to swing the cue on every side. A common rule is to add the length of two cues to each side of the playing area. A standard cue is about 58 inches long.
- 7 foot table: about 13 by 16 feet of room
- 8 foot table: about 13.5 by 17 feet of room
- 9 foot table: about 14 by 18 feet of room
If your room is a little short, many stores sell shorter cues, such as 48 or 52 inches, for tight spots.
Which Size Should You Get?
- Pick a 7 foot table if your room is small or you play bar leagues.
- Pick an 8 foot table for a home game room with good space.
- Pick a 9 foot table if you want to practice for halls and tournaments and you have the room.
Does Size Change the Game?
Yes. On a bigger table, shots are longer and pockets feel farther away. Position play is harder. Many players say if you can play well on a 9 foot table, a 7 foot table feels easy.
Other Things to Check
- Slate: Good tables have slate beds. A one inch, three piece slate is common on quality tables.
- Cloth: Faster cloth makes balls roll farther.
- Level: A table that is not level will roll off. Check it with a level.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard pool table sizes?
The common sizes are 7 foot, 8 foot, and 9 foot. The playing area is twice as long as it is wide.
What size pool table is used in bars?
Most bar tables are 7 foot tables.
What size table do pros play on?
Pro events usually use 9 foot tables.
How much room do I need for an 8 foot pool table?
About 13.5 by 17 feet with standard 58 inch cues. Shorter cues can help in a tight room.
Why are pool tables twice as long as they are wide?
The 2 to 1 shape makes two equal squares and helps players use the diamonds for banks and kicks.