Thursday, December 5th
2024 Air Hockey Table Store Reviews
Dick's Sporting Goods
- Selection: Just over 20 air hockey tables
- Price Range: $41.99 to $1,999.99
- Return Policy: 45 days
- Best price guarantee
DICK'S Sporting Goods is one of the most well-known brick-and-mortar retailers for everything from baseball cleats to beach canopies. In business for more than eight decades, this store likely has a location near you. When it comes to air hockey tables, the selection is fairly modest, with right around 20 models to choose from. Let's take a look at what was on offer during our most recent shopping visit to DICK'S online store.
Just the basics for air hockey
At the low end of the price/quality spectrum, DICK'S had three mini-style air hockey tables, priced from $41.99 to $164.99. These are tabletop versions that are really more like toys than large rec room-style models. On the opposite end, we found five air hockey tables in the $1,000 to $2,000 range. These included the Hathaway Breakaway Dome Hockey Table (which is more like foosball than traditional air hockey, for what it's worth), two multi-game tables by Fat Cat, and Hathaway's 7' Daulton model. If you're hoping to buy an arcade-level air hockey table with electronic scoring and all of the top-shelf features, DICK'S isn't the right retailer for you.
Pay attention to the details, especially shipping costs
When you click on an air hockey table you'd like to consider, you'll get all of the specifications: table features and dimensions, plus any accessories that come with it. For example, the Fat Cat Original 3-in-1 Pockey Multi-Game Table included billiard cues and chalk, air hockey pushers and pucks, and more. You'll also see if the table is available for free in-store pickup: if you've got a way to transport your air hockey table, this is an option worth considering, because shipping is pretty expensive here. That Fat Cat multi-purpose table had a $350 shipping fee that wasn't disclosed until we got to the checkout.
Guarantees the lowest price
On the other hand, DICK'S does have a best price guarantee. So, if you find one of their air hockey tables at a lower price somewhere else, they'll match it. We wish they'd sweeten the deal by beating the price (especially with how expensive the delivery costs are), but we'll take what we can get. You can also join DICK'S Text Alerts to save $20 off an order of $100+, or the email list for a 10% savings; look for those options (and read the exclusions) at the bottom of the site.
45-day returns
When it comes to returns, DICK'S seems to be pretty generous with its 45-day policy. It's "free and easy” if you make your return in-store or curbside, but if your air hockey table was large enough for freight delivery, you'll have to call DICK'S customer service and arrange for carrier pickup. That's convenient but be aware that "you may be responsible for the return shipping cost of your item”.
Poor reputation
And now, for some more bad news: DICK'S has a reputation that's genuinely awful. Start at the Better Business Bureau and you'll find an "F” rating, almost 500 complaints filed in the last three years, and over 125 separate reviews averaging just 1.13 stars out of 5. Customers sounding off via Trustpilot and other third-party sites say the same, with DICK'S never even reaching a 2-star average. Although we didn't spot any rants about air hockey tables in particular, virtually every other aspect of the shopping experience here (in person and online) is subpar. Orders go undelivered, items fall apart within a month and customers get no help from DICK'S employees, you get the idea.
Shop elsewhere if you can
If, for some reason, you're really loyal to DICK'S Sporting Goods as a whole and you find the exact air hockey table you've been wanting, we'd understand if you decided to buy it there. But please, for the sake of your wallet and your overall happiness, first check the higher-ranked retailers on our list to see if you can get the exact same model for less money and much less hassle.
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Air hockey tables are a fantastic addition to any game room or recreational space, bringing fast-paced fun and excitement to players of all ages. The basic concept of sliding a puck across a smooth, air-cushioned surface to score goals is easy to grasp, making it accessible to players with varying skill levels. This simplicity, combined with the challenge of fast reflexes and strategic play, keeps people coming back for more.
Air hockey tables are enjoyed by a diverse group of users. Families often use them for bonding time and to encourage friendly competition among siblings. Teenagers love the excitement and fast action, making these tables a hit at parties and gatherings. Adults, too, appreciate the nostalgic element of air hockey, as many remember playing at arcades during their younger years. Additionally, air hockey tables are popular in community centers, youth clubs, and even some workplaces, providing a quick and engaging break from boring day-to-day activities.
Air Hockey Table Store FAQ
Continued from above...
The good news is that you don't have to spend a fortune to get a decent air hockey table. Budget-friendly tables are perfect for those who want the fun of air hockey without breaking the bank. These tables are typically smaller and more lightweight, making them ideal for younger players or those with limited space.
Arcade-style air hockey tables are a step up, offering a more authentic and durable experience. These tables often feature powerful air blowers, electronic scoring systems, and robust construction, providing a professional feel that mimics the tables you find in entertainment centers.
For those who want versatility, multi-function tables are an excellent choice. These tables can convert into different gaming surfaces, such as ping-pong, pool, or even foosball. This makes them a great option if you're looking to maximize the use of your space and enjoy multiple games without having to buy separate tables.
Buying your air hockey table online offers several advantages. Online shopping allows you to easily compare prices and features from various brands, in order to get the best deal. Many online retailers provide detailed customer reviews and ratings, giving you insight into the quality and performance of different tables. Additionally, purchasing online often means you can have the table delivered directly to your home, saving you the hassle of transporting it yourself.
Ready to start having some fun? Here are a few factors you can keep in mind as you decide where to shop for your air hockey table:
- Selection. Look for a retailer that offers a wide variety of air hockey tables, including different sizes, styles, and price ranges. A broad selection makes it more likely you'll find the perfect table for your space and your wallet.
- Price. Compare prices across different online stores to get the best value for your money. Don't forget to check for any available discounts, sales, or bundle deals that can make your air hockey table more affordable.
- Shipping and installation fees. Determine the cost of shipping and whether the retailer offers installation services. Some tables can be complex to set up, so having professional installation can save you time and effort.
- Reputation. Choose a retailer with a good reputation for quality products and customer service. Reading customer reviews and ratings can give you a sense of the store's reliability and the overall satisfaction of previous buyers. A strong rating from the BBB is another good sign.
The fun-loving experts at Top Consumer Reviews have done the oh-so-arduous work of evaluating and ranking today's most popular retailers of air hockey tables. With our research in mind, you'll be well-equipped to find the perfect air hockey table for your home (...or business, or community center...) and enjoy countless hours of fun and excitement!
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