Monday, December 2nd
2024 Pool Table Store Reviews
Family Leisure
- Up to 60 pool tables to choose from
- Prices range from $2,499.99 to $7,299
- Free shipping and installation on all pool tables
- All tables come with a starter accessory kit
- "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
- In business since 1967
Family Leisure got its start in Cincinnati in 1967 as J&J Distributing Company. Although it began as a vending machine supplier, the business soon expanded into pool - both the swimming and table varieties. There are retail locations in several key cities, like Indianapolis, Nashville, Kansas city, Minneapolis, and Little Rock, but you can always see what's on offer through its online storefront.
Watch for discounts
Look for a pop-up when you first land on the Family Leisure online store. You should get a pop-up offering you a coupon via email for up to $1,000 off your first purchase if you provide your contact info.
Not all tables are available for online purchase
There were about five dozen pool tables in Family Leisure's online store during our visit, ranging in price from $2,499.99 to $7,299. However, there were only a couple dozen that were available for immediate online purchase: all of the pool tables without a price displayed were either designated as "not currently available” or prompted customers to reach out for a price quote. That's not quite as smooth of an online buying experience as we're used to, when comparing Family Leisure with some of its rivals on our list.
Lowest-priced table: $2,499.99
But, in keeping with our low/high comparison across pool table stores, here's what we found in the in-stock options at the time of this review. The lowest-priced pool table was the Black Diamond, priced at $2,499.99. It comes in a standard 7-foot length (with an optional upgrade to 8 feet), 16 different felt colors, and a free starter accessory kit.
Highest-priced table: $7,299
On the other side of the spectrum, Family Leisure offered the VOX Steel model for $7,299. It's a definite departure from the standard wood construction (which is prone to expansion and contraction), with a made-in-the-USA powder-coated steel frame and exterior. You can still choose your felt color, but this table doesn't come with any other upgrades or options.
Shipping and installation always included in the price
Where Family Leisure is really going to blow your mind is in shipping and installation: they're always included at no extra charge, no matter which pool table you buy here. Considering that most rivals charge anywhere from $399 to $799 for pool table installation, it's easy to see why you'd want to look here first.
Good feedback overall
Family Leisure has earned the Better Business Bureau's highest "A+” grade as well as accreditation, and there were absolutely no complaints filed with the BBB in the last three years (or maybe ever?). On Trustpilot, this retailer has gotten over 1,500 5-star reviews (leaving us a bit mystified as to why the average shows just 2.9 out of 5 stars there...). People visit Family Leisure to buy a wide variety of recreational products, and while we found a higher-than-average number of complaints referencing pools and spas, no one seems to take any issue with the pool tables they purchased here. And, most of the pool tables have product reviews you can consider, if you're trying to figure out how they've worked out in real life.
Worth considering for your pool table purchase
Although we've dropped Family Leisure out of our #1 spot due to the availability issue, we're still really big fans of this pool table store. You won't find any other retailers who include shipping and installation by default, and that's a big win if you want the most streamlined, hassle-free pool table buying experience out there. You'll need to shop around a bit if you need a broader selection, but overall Family Leisure is a wonderful place to buy a pool table if they have one that you like.
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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.
Pool Table Store FAQ
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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