A pool table is the ultimate addition to any game room or man cave. Whether you enjoy a friendly game with buddies on the weekends or take your billiards skills very seriously, investing in a high-quality pool table can provide countless hours of entertainment. But with so many brands and options out there, how do you choose the perfect pool table for your space?
To help you navigate the process, we‘ve put together this comprehensive guide to the 10 best pool table brands on the market. We‘ll dive into the history, specialties, and stand-out features of each brand so you can make an informed decision. By the end, you‘ll have all the knowledge you need to bring home a pool table you‘ll treasure for years to come. Let‘s get started!
1. Brunswick Billiards
Brunswick is one of the most iconic and respected names in the billiards industry. Founded way back in 1845, they were the first American pool table manufacturer and have remained at the forefront of the industry ever since. Brunswick tables are the gold standard, known for unparalleled craftsmanship, premium materials, and stunning designs.
All Brunswick pool tables are made-to-order using top-of-the-line hardwoods, fine metals, and professional-grade slate. Many models offer an impressive array of customization options, from wood finishes to felt colors, so you can tailor your table to your exact preferences. Brunswick tables are a favorite among professional players and are often used in elite tournaments worldwide.
The downside to Brunswick‘s impeccable reputation? Their pool tables come with hefty price tags, with models ranging from around $3,000 up to over $10,000. But if you‘re looking for a true heirloom piece that exudes luxury and will last a lifetime, Brunswick is hard to beat.
Brunswick at a glance:
- Price range: $3,000-$10,000+
- Specialty: Handcrafted tables, professional quality
- Biggest pro: Unmatched prestige and craftsmanship
- Biggest con: Very expensive
2. Olhausen Billiards
If you‘re looking for the perfect balance of quality and value, Olhausen should definitely be on your shortlist. This family-owned company has been making pool tables by hand in the USA since 1972. In that time, they‘ve grown from a small operation crafting 350 tables a year to a major brand outputting 30,000 annually.
One thing that hasn‘t changed is Olhausen‘s commitment to working closely with each customer to build their dream table. With 6 distinct styles to choose from – classic, contemporary, rustic, tournament, select, and licensed – and many ways to customize the size, shape, and materials, the options are nearly endless. Their hands-on approach ensures a personalized experience and a final product that will exceed your expectations.
Best of all, Olhausen‘s tables are surprisingly affordable for their exceptional quality level, with many falling in the $2,000 to $5,000 range. If you want a stunning, hand-built table customized to your tastes without completely breaking the bank, Olhausen is an excellent choice.
Olhausen at a glance:
- Price range: $2,000-$5,000
- Specialty: Personalized, handcrafted tables
- Biggest pro: Great value for a custom, heirloom-quality table
- Biggest con: Longer wait times due to hand-building process
3. Connelly Billiards
For serious players looking for a true professional‘s table, Connelly Billiards is a dream come true. Connelly has been building high-end, tournament-grade pool tables in the USA for over 40 years. They are a division of the revered Escalade Sports company.
Connelly tables are fully customizable, built-to-order works of art. You choose every element to your exact specifications – from the exotic hardwood used for the cabinet to the style of pockets to the color of the professional-grade felt. Intricate details like hand-carved legs and inlaid sights make these tables really special.
Of course, this unmatched level of quality and customization comes at a cost. Connelly tables start around $5,000 and can exceed $10,000 depending on your selections. These tables are ideal for true aficionados who want to invest in the best of the best.
Connelly at a glance:
- Price range: $5,000-$10,000+
- Specialty: Bespoke, professional-quality tables
- Biggest pro: Complete customization with top-of-the-line materials
- Biggest con: Very expensive, long wait times
4. Presidential Billiards
For a pool table that is truly unique, look no further than Presidential Billiards. This Houston, TX based company has formed an innovative partnership with Zimbabwe-based manufacturer Wilcon International. Together, they ethically source exotic African hardwoods to handcraft breathtaking tables.
Species like African Mahogany, Kiatt, and Rhodesian Teak give Presidential Billiards tables an aesthetic unlike anything else on the market. Stylish modern and traditional designs highlight the spectacular wood grain. By controlling the entire production process, they can keep prices reasonable while using these exclusive materials.
Another big selling point is Presidential Billiards‘ commitment to ethical manufacturing. All of their tables are made by adult artisans earning fair wages in Zimbabwe. A portion of proceeds are donated to help orphaned children in the country. So you can feel good knowing your purchase is socially responsible.
Presidential at a glance:
- Price range: $3,000-$8,000
- Specialty: Exotic African hardwoods, ethical production
- Biggest pro: Unique, responsibly-sourced materials
- Biggest con: Less customizable than other brands
5. Plank & Hide
Don‘t let their humble origins in Cincinnati, Ohio fool you – Plank & Hide is a serious contender for the most stylish pool tables on the market. While they also craft other fine furniture, their pool tables are the crown jewel of Plank & Hide‘s repertoire.
Plank & Hide offers 4 distinct collections of pool tables, each with its own flair:
The Industrial Series features edgy, modern tables with heavy-duty metal frames
The Vintage Series has a classic, rustic feel with reclaimed wood and antique-inspired details
The Classic Series is all about traditional elegance, with refined designs and gorgeous wood finishes
The Competition Series offers sleek, minimalist tables suited for serious play
Whichever line you choose, Plank & Hide‘s painstaking attention to detail and use of premium hardwoods is apparent. Distinctive design elements like metal X-braces and integrated table tennis conversion tops make these tables the star of any room. Just be prepared to pay for those good looks, as most models are priced from $5,000-$7,000+.
Plank & Hide at a glance:
- Price range: $5,000-$7,000+
- Specialty: Striking, contemporary designs
- Biggest pro: Unparalleled style and visual interest
- Biggest con: Expensive, some designs may be polarizing
6. California House
California House has been handcrafting fine billiard tables and game room furnishings in the USA for over 65 years. Their specialty is bridging the gap between functional entertainment pieces and chic, livable design. In other words, a California House table will look right at home in your living room.
The majority of their pool tables are 8 feet in length and feature clean, transitional designs that blend seamlessly with any decor style. Premium touches like leather pockets and gleaming metal hardware add a luxe feel. Many models cleverly incorporate hidden storage drawers and shelves to stash accessories.
Customization options abound, from felt colors to wood finishes, so you can match your table to your space. And with most models priced between $2,000 to $5,000, you get a designer look for a relatively attainable price. If you want a pool table that doubles as a statement furniture piece, California House is a knock-out.
California House at a glance:
- Price range: $2,000-$5,000
- Specialty: Transitional designs, multi-functional tables
- Biggest pro: Stylish tables that look great in living spaces
- Biggest con: Limited size options, pricey for 8‘ tables
7. American Heritage Billiards
For great quality and even better value, American Heritage is one of your best bets. This family-owned company has been building affordable, entry-level pool tables in the USA for decades. While their designs may not be dripping with fancy details, American Heritage tables are a reliable choice that will hold up well.
More compact 6 to 7 foot models are this brand‘s bread and butter, perfect for apartments and small rec rooms. Clean silhouettes, wood veneers and simple legs keep these tables budget-friendly, with many clocking in under $1,500. But American Heritage offers a few higher-end wood tables as well, topping out around $5,000.
Whichever model catches your eye, you can count on a durable table with a 1" thick slate surface, genuine leather pockets, and a sturdy cabinet. American Heritage backs their craftsmanship too, with a lifetime warranty on all tables. For shoppers who want a basic, quality table without spending a fortune, this brand is a fantastic value.
American Heritage at a glance:
- Price range: $800-$5,000
- Specialty: Simple, affordable tables
- Biggest pro: Great prices, lifetime warranty
- Biggest con: Utilitarian designs, 1" slate on all models
8. Fat Cat
Fat Cat is another excellent choice for budget-minded shoppers, particularly those with kids or who need a space-saving table. This brand, an offshoot of billiards giant GLD Products, offers some of the most affordable and compact tables out there.
One of the big selling points with Fat Cat is their wide range of sizes. Got a cramped game room, den, or even dorm to outfit? No problem – Fat Cat makes everything from 64" quarter tables up to full-size models. They also offer a unique 7‘ "Pockey" table, a fun 3-in-1 table with pool, hockey, and table tennis surfaces.
Materials are far from premium – most sport MDF cabinets and laminate felt, so don‘t expect them to become family heirlooms. But for casual players looking for a fun addition to a bonus room, Fat Cat has you covered. And with prices capped around $1,000, they won‘t make you choose between a pool table and your next vacation.
Fat Cat at a glance:
- Price range: $250-$1,000
- Specialty: Space-saving tables, multi-game combos
- Biggest pro: Very affordable, tons of size options
- Biggest con: Lower-end materials, not built for serious play
9. Mizerak
Mizerak is another trustworthy value brand to put on your shortlist. Also falling under the GLD Products umbrella, Mizerak has specialized in affordable, space-conscious tables since 1936. Today, they‘re one of the most popular choices for families, rec rooms, and even office break rooms.
Like Fat Cat, Mizerak offers pool tables in a wide range of smaller sizes, starting at a 40" tabletop model. Their full-size tables are designed for easy assembly, with many folding or converting for storage. A few even include table tennis tops for added versatility.
Construction is basic but sturdy, with hardwood veneers and laminate systems in place of slate. But for the casual player, these tables offer plenty of value and functionality for the $500-$1,500 price point. Mizerak also gets great reviews for their customer service and support.
Mizerak at a glance:
- Price range: $500-$1,500
- Specialty: Compact tables, easy assembly
- Biggest pro: Very affordable, space-saving designs
- Biggest con: Basic materials, not ideal for serious players
10. Imperial
Last but not least, Imperial Billiards is an excellent mid-range choice. Imperial strikes a nice middle ground between entry-level and high-end brands, offering quality materials and construction at attainable prices. If you want something a step up from the basics without spending a fortune, it‘s definitely worth a look.
Imperial offers one of the largest selections of any brand, with over 50 distinct models in every imaginable size and style. Looking for an ornate, hand-carved showpiece? A modern table with a dining top? An affordable 7-footer perfect for the kids? They truly have something for everyone.
Premium features like 100% hardwood cabinets (no MDF here!), 1" backed slate, and real leather pockets come standard on most models. And with prices starting under $1,000 up to around $5,000 for the biggest slabs of exotic wood, there‘s an Imperial table to fit most budgets.
Imperial at a glance:
- Price range: $1,000-$5,000
- Specialty: Wide selection, quality mid-range tables
- Biggest pro: Something for every style and space
- Biggest con: Extra features can add up quickly
Choosing the Perfect Pool Table
As you can see, the best pool table brands offer something for everyone, whether you‘re a casual player or a shark in training. To help you zero in on your ideal table, keep these factors in mind:
Budget: Pool tables are available at nearly every price point, from a few hundred dollars up to $10,000 or more. Consider how much you‘re willing to invest, but remember, a higher-quality table will last longer and play better. Buy the best you can afford.
Size: The standard size for a home table is 8‘, but 7‘ models are also popular. Measure your space and make sure you have at least 5‘ of clearance on all sides for comfortable play. Tight on room? Consider a 6‘ or 7‘ model, or look for a convertible table with a removable top.
Materials: For the best gameplay, look for a solid hardwood cabinet with a 1" slate playing surface, leather drop pockets, and 100% wool felt. More affordable tables may use MDF, plastic pockets, and laminate felt – these are fine for casual play but serious players will feel the difference.
Style: From classic to modern to rustic, there‘s a pool table to match any design aesthetic. Consider the overall vibe of your space and choose a table that complements it. Remember, a pool table is a large piece of furniture, so it will have a big impact on the look of the room.
Extras: Some tables come with bonus features like table tennis conversion tops, hidden storage, dining surfaces, and more. Decide what‘s most important to you – do you need versatility or a true player‘s table? These extras can be great if you‘ll use them but not worth the added cost if you won‘t.
The most important thing is to choose a table you love from a reputable brand. Don‘t be afraid to visit a local billiards showroom to see tables in person and play a few rounds before you buy. With a little research, you‘re sure to find the perfect pool table to enjoy for years to come!
