Anyone who’s spent a rainy afternoon in an Irish pub eyeing a tilted pool table knows the pull of owning your own, but when searching “pool table near me” in Ireland, the real question isn’t where to look — it’s whether to buy new or used. With refurbished tables starting at €695 and new models costing up to €3,200, the savings are real but so are the risks.

4 related posts

Average cost new: €1,100–€3,200 ·
Average cost used: €500–€1,500 ·
Common home size: 7-foot (UK/Ireland) ·
Pool table lifespan: 15–25 years

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Average cost new range of €1,100–€3,200 is not verified across all Irish retailers
  • Exact condition of used tables varies — refelting need depends on prior maintenance
  • Average hourly snooker rate across all Irish clubs is not centrally tracked
3Timeline signal
  • Home pool table demand rose in the 2020s due to gamesroom trend (Badlands Inc)
4What’s next

Five numbers that frame your buying decision:

Metric Value
Average cost new €1,100–€3,200
Average cost used €500–€1,500
Common home size 7-foot (UK/Ireland)
Slate thickness 1-inch (25.4 mm) recommended
Cloth replacement cost €150–€300

Is it worth buying a used pool table?

Pros of buying a used pool table

  • Cost savings of 30–50% compared to new (Badlands Inc (pool table retailer))
  • Access to higher-end models for less money (Badlands Inc)
  • Immediate availability — no custom order delays (Badlands Inc)
  • Possibility to negotiate price with private sellers

Cons of buying a used pool table

  • Risk of hidden damage: warped slate, worn cushions, torn felt (Badlands Inc)
  • Limited customization — sold as-is (Badlands Inc)
  • Professional moving and reassembly can cost €200–€500, offsetting savings (Badlands Inc)

What to inspect before buying a used pool table

  • Check the playing surface with a level: slate should be flat and not cracked.
  • Examine the felt for rips, burns, or fraying edges.
  • Test cushion bounce — rubber should be firm, not dead.
  • Ask the seller about origin and age; look for a manufacturer label.
  • Verify all pockets are intact and not sagging.
Bottom line: A used pool table can save you hundreds, but only if you inspect the slate and cushions thoroughly. Casual players should consider a refurbished table from a dealer; serious players may prefer new for warranty and custom fit.

The catch: a used table can save you hundreds, but only if you know what to look for. Without a thorough inspection, you could end up paying more in repairs than you saved.

Should I buy a 7 or 8-foot pool table?

In Ireland, the 7-foot table is the standard home choice, while 8-foot tables are more common in the US. Your room size dictates the decision. A 7-foot table needs at least 12×16 feet of clearance; an 8-foot table requires 13×17 feet (Badlands Inc). Shorter cues (48 inches) can help in tighter spaces.

The trade-off

Seven-foot tables fit most Irish rooms and are more forgiving for beginners. Eight-foot tables give you a more authentic pool experience but eat up a lot of floor space.

Why are pool tables so expensive?

Materials that drive pool table cost

  • Slate: 3-piece, 1-inch thick slab costs $400–$800 alone.
  • Cushions: quality K-66 or K-55 rubber profiles add $200–$400.
  • Cloth: woolen felt from brands like Simonis or Championship runs $150–$300.
  • Shipping and installation: €200–€500 depending on location (Badlands Inc).

Lower-end tables use MDF or particle board — they are cheaper but not recommended for serious play (Badlands Inc).

The upshot

If you see a used table for under €500, it’s almost certainly MDF or particle board — not slate. Check the frame weight: slate tables are too heavy for two people to lift.

Which is harder, billiards or snooker?

Snooker tables are nearly twice the size of a 7-foot pool table, and the pockets are narrower. That means every shot requires tighter control. Billiards (the 3-cushion version) relies on geometry and spin. Most competitive players say snooker demands more precise cue ball management.

How much to play snooker per hour?

Rates vary by location and club. Many clubs in Ireland and the UK charge between £10 and £20 per hour, with student and off-peak discounts available. Some require an annual membership of £30–£100 on top of hourly fees. Always check with the venue directly for current pricing.

What is the 30 rule in pool?

When you hit an object ball with a 30-degree cut angle using a stun shot (no top or bottom spin), the cue ball will deflect off at 30 degrees from its original path. This rule helps experienced players predict position after contact. YouTube tutorials show the natural-angle control in practice.

Three key differences between 7-foot and 8-foot tables, one pattern: bigger gives truer play but needs more room.

Feature 7-foot table 8-foot table
Playing area 7 ft x 3.5 ft 8 ft x 4 ft
Recommended room size 12 ft x 16 ft 13 ft x 17 ft
Best for Casual home use Serious play / hosting
Cue length Standard 57–58 in Standard 57–58 in

Here are the specifications that determine quality and price:

Component Typical spec Cost impact
Slate thickness 1 inch (25.4 mm) €400–€800
Cloth material Wool blend (Simonis 860) €150–€300
Cushion profile K-66 or K-55 rubber €200–€400
Frame material Solid hardwood Varies
Pocket type Leather drop pockets Included
Finish Lacquer or polyurethane Varies
Weight 700–1,000 lbs (7ft) Higher weight = better quality
Warranty 1–5 years (new) Included in price

Upsides of buying used

Downsides of buying used

  • Risk of hidden damage
  • Limited customization
  • Professional setup costs can eat savings
  • No warranty (unless refurbished by dealer)

How to inspect a used pool table: step by step

  1. Check the slate: place a level along the playing surface. It should read flat in all directions.
  2. Inspect the felt: look for tears, burns, or sagging. Replacing felt costs €150–€300.
  3. Test the cushions: press firmly near the center. They should spring back quickly.
  4. Examine the frame: no cracks, warping, or water damage.
  5. Verify pockets: pockets should be tight, not loose or sagging.
  6. Ask for setup history: a table moved professionally is better than one dragged around.

Clarity check

Confirmed facts

  • Used tables typically cost 30–50% less than new (Badlands Inc)
  • Slate tables are heavier and more durable than MDF tables
  • Professional setup is recommended for slate tables

What’s unclear

  • Exact percentage of used tables needing refelting within first year — depends on prior care
  • Precise average hourly snooker rate across all Irish clubs — varies widely
  • Reliability of private sellers on DoneDeal/Adverts.ie varies

“A good slate table, properly maintained, will last a generation or more. The key is checking the slate for cracks and the cushions for life.”

— Owner of The Billiard Company, Dublin

“Our hourly rates range from £12 to £18, and we offer student discounts on weekdays. Membership is £50 per year, which reduces the hourly cost.”

— Manager, Steven Charles Snooker Centre, UK

For an Irish buyer weighing a pool table purchase, the choice is clear: if you want peace of mind and customization, buy new from a local showroom like The Billiard Company or Connaught Amusements. If you’re willing to inspect carefully and handle setup, a used table from Adverts.ie or DoneDeal can save you hundreds. Either way, don’t skip the inspection checklist — one warped slate and your bargain becomes a headache.

Additional sources

poolireland.ie, gumtree.com

Don't miss these

Frequently asked questions

Does a used pool table need new felt?

Not always, but it’s common. If the felt is worn, stained, or torn, replacement costs €150–€300.

How long does a slate pool table last?

With proper care, 20–25 years. The slate itself is nearly indestructible; cushions and felt will need replacing sooner.

Can I move a used pool table myself?

Not recommended. Slate tables weigh over 700 lbs and must be dismantled by professionals to avoid damage. Typical moving cost: €200–€500.

What is the best cloth brand for a pool table?

Simonis 860 (70/30 worsted wool) is the industry standard. Championship cloth is also well regarded.

How do I know if a used pool table is a good deal?

Compare against refurbished prices from specialists like Pool Ireland (€695+) and factor in potential refelting and moving costs. If total is under €1,000 for a slate table, it’s often a deal.

Are pool tables from Adverts.ie reliable?

Seller reliability varies. Always view in person, and bring a level to check the slate. Trust signals: seller has multiple ads, responds promptly, and can describe the table’s history.

What accessories come with a used pool table?

Usually the table, set of balls, two cues, and a triangle. Confirm before buying; some private sellers remove accessories.