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Billiards Direct Review

Monday, December 2nd

2024 Pool Table Store Reviews

Billiards Direct Review 4.5 Star Rating

Billiards Direct

4.5 Star Rating
  • Over 200 pool tables to choose from
  • Prices range from $2,695 to $50,000+
  • Shipping within the lower 48 states for $750
  • Delivery, setup, and installation available in the San Diego/Orange County areas ($399/$499)
  • All pool table purchases come with a standard accessory kit
  • 60-day return policy
  • Payment options through Affirm
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • In business since 2003

Brandon Gramse is the owner and operator of Billiards Direct, based in San Diego. His pool table store has been in business since 2003 and carries all of the trusted brands in the industry.

Highest-priced table: $50,000

Selection is one big reason to consider getting your pool table from Billiards Direct. With over 200 models in stock, there's bound to be one that's the perfect match for your game room. On the high end of the spectrum, you'll find the ornate Victorian model by Golden West, marked down to a "bargain” starting price of "just” $50,000. It's made from exotic woods and can be customized with your choice of over 20 wood stains, 20 felt colors, and in lengths of either 7 or 8 feet. You can upgrade the felt if you like, and you can add a dining table top for $2,000 (though we have a hard time picturing how you could slide chairs underneath this particular pool table).

Lowest-priced tables: $2,695

But, realistically speaking, most of us aren't looking for a pool table that's the price of a Tesla, so don't be afraid to click on the boxes with the price range that meets your actual budget. In the "Under $3,000” category, Billiards Direct had 12 entry-level pool tables at the time of our visit, with several brands and models at a starting price of $2,695. Those included Imperial's Eliminator model, the Tiburon by Kay Woods in either mahogany or cherry, and the Kay Woods Windsor in cherry.

Detailed product descriptions

No matter which pool table you're interested in, you'll find a wealth of details in the description. That can include whether or not the table can be converted to a ball return design, if it comes in both 7- and 8-foot sizes, the full specifications, and all of your options for upgrades and customizations.

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All tables include accessories

Any pool table purchase comes with the standard accessory kit. That includes two 2-piece cues, a box of chalk, a bridge stick, a wall-mount cue holder, a set of pool balls, a rack, and a pool table brush. There's an available premium accessories kit you can consider, but unfortunately the Billiards Direct site doesn't really spell out what that encompasses.

Help is at the ready

Not sure which pool table or options are the best fit for what you're looking for? Don't hesitate to reach out via phone or email. One of the most consistent compliments we've seen for this store is how helpful and knowledgeable the owner and staff are, so even if you're not a local, you can still get that first-rate treatment at a distance.

No setup offered if you're outside the area

Unless you live within the delivery area of Billiards Direct (San Diego or Orange County/LA), you won't have any options for setup of your pool table. Delivery alone will cost $750 outside of that area (and only within the continental US). However, if you do live locally, you can pick up your pool table in San Diego at no charge, or you can pay $399 to $499 for delivery, installation, and setup.

Financing available via Affirm

Speaking of payments, if you'd rather not buy your pool table on your credit card but you could use a little financing help, Billiards Direct has a partnership with Affirm. You'll see that option on the website, and you just click on "check your purchasing power” to get started.

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60-day returns (you pay the cost)

Billiards Direct offers a 60-day return policy. Just keep in mind that you're on the hook for any return costs - and that could be prohibitive if you live in, say, Maine.

No complaints here

Not only is Billiards Direct the recipient of an "A+” rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, it's also one of the only pool table stores we know of that has absolutely zero complaints filed with the BBB. We didn't find a ton of feedback elsewhere, but what we did see was almost always glowing praise.

Excellent place to buy a pool table (especially for locals)

Billiards Direct is an all-around terrific option for buying your pool table. Although you'll have to find someone locally to do the setup and installation after it's been delivered (if you don't live in the San Diego/Orange County region), you'll still benefit from all of the benefits of shopping here - including the personalized help of the owner himself, if you need it. On selection and price, this store is almost unbeatable, and the reputation is first-rate.

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.

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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.
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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.

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