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Wayfair vs Billiard Factory

Wednesday, November 13th

2024 Pool Table Store Reviews

Wayfair Review 4 Star Rating

Wayfair

4 Star Rating
  • Over 550 pool tables to choose from
  • Prices range from $109.99 to $17,999
  • Free delivery on all pool tables
  • Some tables come with free installation or second-day delivery
  • 30-day return policy (you pay for the return shipping costs)
  • Many customer reviews on some pool tables
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • In business since 2002

Shop for your pool table at Wayfair if you want an incredible selection to choose from. The 550+ options go from portable mini versions up to cutting-edge designs named after sci-fi movies, with plenty of traditional designs in the middle as well. You'll get free delivery, sometimes in just two days, and some of the higher-end pool tables include professional installation in the price. It's also easy to see which tables have earned hundreds of 5-star ratings from Wayfair customers. You're on the hook for the shipping costs on any returns within the 30-day window, though. Wayfair doesn't get our top rating - it's not a pool table specialist, after all - but if you're confident that you can choose the right model for your space and budget, it's a great place to shop.

Billiard Factory Review 2 Star Rating

Billiard Factory

2 Star Rating
  • 135 pool tables to choose from
  • Prices range from $2,499.99 to $33,399.99
  • Price match guarantee
  • Nationwide delivery (fees range from $299 to $799)
  • Financing options through Affirm
  • In business since 1975

Billiard Factory calls Texas home, with several retail stores there as well as in Arizona, Florida, and Las Vegas. Since 1975, they've been supplying pool tables across the spectrum, with an inventory spanning 135 models from $2,499.99 to $33,399.99. Your pool table comes with a basic accessory kit, and you've got options for upgrades on everything from the felt color to the table length. Although we like some of this store's customer-friendly policies, like its price match guarantee, we have a hard time getting past the "F” rating from the BBB with not many positive client ratings to balance that out. This is still our least-favorite pool table store.

Who Sells the Best Pool Tables?

Whether you're looking for a way to unwind, host friendly competitions, or hone your skills, owning a pool table can transform your space into a hub of entertainment. Pool, often considered a mix of precision and strategy, has been a staple in bars and game rooms for years, offering a laid-back yet engaging pastime that can be enjoyed solo or with a group. Having your own table at home means you'll never have to wait for your turn at the bar or pool hall again.

Shopping online can be a great way to get the pool table of your dreams. Not only do you have a wider selection at your fingertips, but online retailers often offer better deals, free shipping, or even white-glove delivery services to get the proper setup. Plus, you can read reviews and compare different brands and models without leaving your home.

The Best Pool Table Stores Compare Pool Table Stores Compare Pool Table Store Reviews What are the best Pool Table Stores Best Pool Table Store Reviews

Pool Table Store FAQ

That depends on who you're asking! Billiards usually means any tabletop game that uses a cue ball and stick, while pool refers to a game with pockets. And then there's snooker, which has very specific rules related to the color point value of the 22 balls involved.
Obviously you'll need enough room for the table itself. But, don't forget to take into account the pool cues when you're playing! You need at least five feet of clearance on all sides of the table, since most cues are about that long.
There are cheap pool tables that cost under $100, but they're usually more like toys than actual equipment you'd use in a game room at your home. Most traditional pool tables start around $2000, with the most luxurious, high-end models coming in at $10,000 and up.
At a minimum, you'll need a pool cue and set of pool balls. They may or may not be included as part of the package when you purchase your pool table. Other common accessories are chalk for the cue tips, wall racks for holding your cues, a bridge stick for hard-to-reach shots, a table brush, and racks for setting up the balls on the table.
Pool tables can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. When your table is installed professionally, it's leveled for that particular spot; moving it can make the slate shift and cause the table to no longer be level. You may want to consider having your table moved by a technician; if you choose to do it yourself, a professional leveling and adjustment may be in order.
Brush, brush, brush. It can take months to break in new cloth on a pool table, and there's no such thing as "brushing too much”. If you choose to use a vacuum, make sure to use an attachment and not rotating brushes. You can also use a damp, lint-free towel every so often to wipe down the pool table's cloth.
You can - but you shouldn't. You could scratch the finish, damage the cloth, or even wind up making the table not level. It's recommended that you keep your table out of direct sunlight and use a pool table cover to protect it from dust.
Check the retailer's policy before making your purchase. Most stores won't accept returns on assembled products. Also, if you return a pool table that you haven't assembled yet, you'll likely have to pay restocking fees and/or return shipping costs. You might be better off trying to sell the table locally instead.
Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

The game of pool, a term often used interchangeably with "billiards”, actually has its own distinct history and set of rules. Both stem from a 15th-century lawn game similar to croquet, but billiards came first and was played on a table without pockets. Over time, the game evolved, and pockets were added, giving birth to what we now call pool.

While billiards generally refers to games played on a pocketless table (such as carom billiards), pool is a broader category that includes various games like eight-ball and nine-ball, all played on a pocketed table. Though the terms are sometimes mixed, the main difference lies in the table design and game rules, with pool being more common and casual today.

When shopping for a pool table, there are a few key features to keep in mind. First, the size of the table is crucial - official competition size is 9 feet, but you might opt for a 7- or 8-foot table to better suit your space. Materials matter, too. Look for solid wood construction and a slate surface for the truest gameplay experience, though MDF can work if you're on a budget or looking for something lightweight. Don't forget about the cloth; wool or wool-nylon blends are the go-to for smooth, consistent ball roll.

Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned player, online shopping lets you find the perfect table that fits your style and budget without the hassle. But which pool table store should you go with? Here are a few criteria you can use to make some comparisons and ultimately decide where to make your purchase:

  • Selection. The more pool tables in stock, the better your chances of getting one that you'll love, with all the features you prefer.
  • Price. While you're likely to find very similar pricing when you compare one store to another for a specific pool table model, you may be able to get a discount for signing up for emails or by spotting a temporary promo code. Once you've picked a table you like, it's a good idea to comparison-shop at several stores, just in case there's a sale or discount being offered. Don't forget to factor in the cost of delivery too.
  • Service. Can you get expert help if you need some guidance on choosing a pool table? Can you reach someone over the phone, or are you limited to live chat and email or online forms? Once your pool table is set up, how easily can you get assistance if something isn't quite right (it's not sitting level, the return isn't working)?
  • Reputation. What do other shoppers say about their experience buying pool tables at the store? Does the retailer have a strong rating from the Better Business Bureau? Are there any ratings offered on individual models of pool tables, so you can check out customer sentiment on the ones you're considering?

Ready to rack ‘em up? Top Consumer Reviews has researched and ranked some of the most popular pool table stores online today, to help you find the right table for your game room space and skill level. Whether you're drawn to pool as a hobby, a social pastime, or a competitive sport, your new pool table will be a great way to invest in fun and relaxation for years to come.

The Best Reviews of Pool Table Stores