A pool table is one of the most common recreational pieces for anyone’s dream basement or entertainment center. While shopping around, you might see people using the terms billiards and pool interchangeably. This common mistake can leave you looking for the wrong type of table. To help you find exactly what you need, the guide below explains how the two games differ.

Billiards

This sport was developed in the 14th century as a lawn game much like croquet. Over time, the game moved indoors, and tables covered with green cloths were used to imitate grass. Today’s familiar cue sticks replaced the original mace in the late 1600s.

Billiards only utilizes three balls—one red object ball and two white cue balls. The game table features bumpers rather than pockets so that players can manipulate the movement of the balls instead of sinking them.

As for the gameplay itself, the object is to score more points than your opponent by striking their cue ball. Points are awarded based on the difficulty of the shot.

Pool

Pool was derived from billiards. As the popularity of the original sport grew and spawned the game of pool, a variety of new rules arose. The once solid sides also began to feature six pockets.

Modern pool utilizes a white cue ball and 15 colored and numbered balls—some solid and some striped. Players call solids or stripes before the game begins or after the first ball is sunk. Each player’s goal is to sink all of their balls—and then the eight ball—into the pockets before their opponent can.

Which to Choose

In general, pool is more common in the United States. Bars are more likely to carry pool tables with pockets, and your friends and family members are probably familiar with the rules. If you want to teach your friends a new game or keep a unique item in your entertainment area, a billiards table is the perfect choice. Regardless of your selection, it is essential to have a high-quality table for smooth gameplay.

If you’re looking for billiards tables, pool tables, or other state-of-the-art playroom equipment, come to Dayton Billiards of Washington Township, OH. Whether you want to secure your home as the hangout spot among friends or set up an area for family game nights, they carry all of the equipment you need for hours of fun. From dartboards and air hockey tables to playsets and trampolines, they’re the premier entertainment source for the Tri-State area. Their skilled technicians also provide necessary repair services to keep your equipment in excellent shape. For more information about their game tables, call (937) 436-2777 or visit them online.