Looking for the best outdoor pool table? In this article, you’ll find the 5 best brands that have been known for their great quality. To guide you, I also included a review that summarizes their key features, as well as the pros and cons of owning one. If you haven’t owned a pool table, don’t worry! There’s a buying guide and a FAQ section near the end to help you find the right one for you.
Most people assume that all pool tables are made the same. The assumption must have come from the idea that pool tables often look alike. What they don’t know is that indoor and outdoor pool tables are way too different. In the next section, the key factors when looking for the best outdoor pool table have been laid out to help you understand the differences.
Key Tips to Check on Before Buying a Billiard Tables for Outdoor Use
You might be thinking that outdoor pool tables are just the same as indoor pool tables. Although they look the same, they have their differences in terms of how they are made. Outdoor pool tables need to withstand not only the scorching heat but also heavy rain and moisture. That’s why they have extra features that an indoor pool table doesn’t have. To give you an example, here are the key features you should look into.
Aluminum framing
Metal frames are sturdier than wood. They’re also better for outdoor use since they aren’t as prone to damages to moisture. They also won’t easily get worn down despite the different weather conditions. Although these are heavier, they’re very durable.
Weather-resistant and rustproof coating
Apart from the aluminum framing, outdoor pool tables have added extra protection to make sure they last long. It’s often coated with weather-resistant, anti-rust, and even UV protection finishing. Some even add water and fire retardant coatings.
Waterproof playfields with a sturdy cloth
The playing field is also made of waterproof cloth. This ensures the playing field won’t swell or bulge due to moisture. This keeps your playing field level and smooth since it doesn’t build up moisture as much as indoor pool tables.
K66 cushion rubber on railings
Although K66 is used even in some indoor pool tables, for the outdoor versions, this is the standard. It helps reduce friction and the wear-and-tear during play. The result! It provides a good rebound.
Cues, balls, and other accessories made for outdoor use.
All accessories are also weatherproofed. You can’t exactly play with materials that aren’t compatible with the outdoor pool table environment.
Leg levelers are meant to ensure an even playing field.
It’s not easy to find a level surface when your pool table is placed outside. That’s why leg levelers are available for each table leg. You can adjust each leg accordingly – you can make one leg longer while the other is shorter. It lets you manually set up and adjust.
Foldable legs for easy transport
When you want to take extra care of your outdoor pool table, you should be able to store them properly, especially if they’re not in use. Foldable legs or removable legs make it easier to move around and store. Since it can be reassembled, you can easily bring them with you when you move houses.
Standard pockets rather than automatic ball return
Automatic ball return uses magnets. Since the frames are made of metal, standard pockets are used so that the balls won’t get stuck. Standard pockets protect the balls much better too.
Waterproof outdoor pool table cover
Your outdoor pool table shouldn’t be left uncovered when you’re not using it. It could damage the playing field cloth, especially when exposed to heavy rain or blazing heat. Apart from that, you’ll need the weatherproof cover to keep dirt from building up.
So if you want to make the most out of your money, buying the right one for you should be your priority. There’s always an option out there that will fit all your criteria. To help you with your search, keep reading for the summary table and the in-depth product reviews!
Comparison table of the Best Outdoor Pool Table
In-Depth Product Reviews of the 5 Best Outdoor Pool Table
01- Imperial 8′ Outdoor Pool Table
If you’re looking for one of the most trusted outdoor pool table makers, go for the Imperial. Their 8-feet pool table is certainly one you will use and enjoy for a long time.
It’s got a futuristic design. Although it looks stylish and sleek, it’s very sturdy due to its aluminum framing. To top it off, it even has anodized aluminum rails and legs. The table has been coated with a tough tan lacquer to battle the damage from the environment outside.
You don’t need to worry about this pool table being left too long outside. It can last long, even if it’s exposed to rain or the sun. Considering the quality, this is one of the best outdoor pool tables that you can find on the market.
Here are some of its features:
- Aluminum frame
- Tough tan coating
- Durable
- Easy to assemble
- Stable
- K66 surface rubber
- Formica sheet bed board
- Polyester resin
- Waterproof
- Fire-retardant
- Includes a playfield cover
- Ideal indoors and outdoors
When you order the pool table, they will have it arranged so that it’s easy to set up at home. All you need to do is attach the legs to the platform. To make sure it’s stable, it comes with a leg leveler so that you can play without interruptions.
For the playing surface, it has been cushioned with a K66 rubber. It’s also layered with polyester and Formica sheets to ensure that it lasts longer than most pool tables. The best part about it is that the table is fire-retardant and waterproof. Maintaining is not as hard because of the materials.
As for the assembly, all you need to do is to plug the legs into the pool. They provide you with bolts to ensure that the legs are secured. However, the whole table is heavy due to the materials used. You may need some help during the setup.
- Smooth playing surface
- Convenient
- Easy to set up
- Sturdy
- Can be reassembled
- Durable
- Comfortable design
- Heavy
- It can’t be assembled alone
02- Hathaway Store Alpine Pool Table
Next on our list is Hathaway’s Alpine Outdoor Pool Table. The design is more striking compared to Imperial’s – the frame is white, while the color of the playing felt is electric blue.
In addition, it has the extra protection it needs since it is meant to be used outside. The felt is weather and UV-resistant. But even if it’s heavy-duty, make sure that you still cover it when not in use. The accessories should also be stored safely. Below are some of its features.
Features
- Laminated surface
- K55 rubber cushion
- Easy to assemble
- Includes nylon cover
- UV-resistant
- Durable
- Weatherproof
- Powder-coated glossing
- Electric blue felt play surface
- Tournament-level
- Includes nylon cover
- Sturdy
If you’re looking for a classic pool table with a modern twist, this one is perfect for you. Make your patio or yard look refreshing with its sleek and modern design. As a bonus, the corners and the rails are all powder coated and finish with white gloss. Despite the harsh conditions outside, it will look polished and updated whatever season you’re in. In addition, Hathaway’s Alpine pool table is a good way for anyone, whether they are casual players or pros, to enjoy and have fun. It’s a pool table that can also be used for tournaments. They even included billiard balls on the set. So if you need to practice, this is one of the best pool tables for you. You won’t have trouble adjusting when you compete.
- Heavy-duty
- Tournament standard
- UV resistant
- Weather-resistant
- Easy to assemble
- Includes rubber cushioning
- Laminated surface
- Heavy
- Needs some assistance to assemble
03- Berner Billiards Orlando Outdoor & Indoor Pool Table
If you don’t have enough space in your patio or don’t want your pool table to eat up a lot of space, then the Berner Billiards Orlando might be exactly what you’re looking for. The company boasts that the Orlando pool table can be used both indoors and outdoors. You get to enjoy a game with your friends anywhere you like.
Here are some of its main features:
- Aluminum tubing
- Anti-rust coating
- Alloy steel
- Black zinc alloy corners
- Includes drop pockets
- Tough
- Engineered wood base
- MDF cabinet
- Weatherproof
- Includes cover
- Fiberglass playing surface
- UV resistant
The pool table has a modern aesthetic. But don’t be fooled by how it looks – it performs well against the other pool tables on this list. Because it can be used either outdoors or indoors, the manufacturers have considered the environmental factors that can damage the pool table. That’s why the materials they used are damp-resistant. Don’t worry about leaving it outdoors too. It’s best suited for open-aired environments.
The striking contrast between the aluminum frame and the blue felt playing surface makes it eye-catching to give the table a luxurious appearance. It doesn’t look like your typical boring pool table. In addition, the manufacturers have added leg levelers so that you can ensure a fair game even if it’s placed on an uneven surface. They even included drop pockets. There’s also an accurate ball rebound due to the K-66 cushion railing on the playing area. The profile cushions enable you to play smoothly. The accessories that come with the table are all weatherproofed. They can be used outdoors as well.
- Lighter than other pool tables
- Can fit easily in small rooms
- Durable
- Aluminum finish
- Anti-rust coating
- Cushioned rails
- K-66 rubber
- Not tournament standard
- It can be hard to move around
04- Playcraft Outdoor Extera Pool Table
The Extera may come at a slightly higher price, but it’s still considered one of the best outdoor pool tables from Amazon. It’s durable, and it has added protection to ensure they last long. The sizing is a standard 8 feet table, perfect for casual or competitive players. They even included a pool ball rack. The table legs are also sturdy. You won’t have to worry about your table collapsing. It even has a cover to protect it from dirt and damages.
Let’s take a look at its key features:
- Weatherproof playing field
- UV resistant
- Polytechnic cloth
- Anti-rust coating
- Aluminum top rails
- Square sub-framing
- Sleek
- Aluminum corner coating
- Adjustable leveler
- Includes a PVC cover
- K-66 cushioning
- Cross truss bracing
As the table is quite heavy, 3-4 people will be needed once assembled, even though it is not slate. There is also a cover included with the accessories package for when the table is not in use. Keep this cover on when you aren’t using it so that dirt and other debris don’t build up.
Aluminum is used in this design to withstand the weather outside, and its playing surface has UV protection to prevent any weather damage. Because of its anti-rust exterior, the product is not at risk of being damaged by moisture. It has an 8-foot length, which is standard for pool tables. Additionally, it does have leg levelers so that it can be placed on uneven terrain. If you’re not playing, remember to bring your accessories inside as they are not weatherproof.
- Anti-rust coating
- Weatherproof playing field
- Rubber cushioning
- PVC cover included
- Adjustable leveler
- UV-resistant
- Sturdy
- Too heavy
- No markers
05- EastPoint Sports Outdoor Pool Table with Table Tennis Board
With the EastPoint Sports 87 inch, you can enjoy indoor game-room fun outdoors. A sleek aluminum frame ensures a great look while keeping the table resistant to the elements.
Weather Resistant Playfield topped with Sunbrella Fabric can withstand moisture. The K66 Rubber Bumpers provide consistent bounce throughout the table so you can play like a pro.
Here are some of its features
- Weather-resistant
- Includes table cover
- Moisture-resistant
- Aluminum frame
- Sunbrella cloth
- Engineered billiard fabric
- Includes chalk and other accessories
- Wicker accents
- Heavy-duty
- K-66 rubber cushioning
- 90-day warranty
- Family-friendly
In addition to the hand-woven resin wicker accents and a traditional Parlor design, the aluminum frame construction and engineered Sunbrella billiard fabric can withstand different weather conditions.
There is an all-weather cover included with the outdoor pool, as well as all accessories. There is nothing better than some family time and fresh air. You can ensure that using EastPoint’s. Your kids won’t get easily bored too. If they are tired of playing billiards, just put the table tennis playing surface on top to keep the fun going. It will help them keep their hands off their devices for a while. You can spend time with your family for a longer time.
There’s no doubt that your guests or family will enjoy its endless fun. These outdoor pool tables come complete with all accessories and are ready to play immediately after delivery. Just make sure to place the covering when you’re done playing. Even if it has already been utilized with the best weatherproofing methods, you can never be too safe.
- Includes engineered billiard cloth
- Sunbrella play surface
- Aluminum framing
- Includes table tennis accessories
- Includes billiard accessories
- Weather-resistant
- Polyester resin accents
- Heavy to setup
- Smaller sized
Buyer’s Guide for the Outdoor Pool Table
Even if the reviews claim that the best outdoor pool table is “x product,” the best outdoor pool table for you will be the one that fits your criteria at the end of the day. There are several factors to consider. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
Features
What makes outdoor tables different is that they can handle the constantly changing temperatures and withstand varying weather conditions. These are ready to battle it out against the damages you would expect when using indoor pool tables instead. Always look for pool tables with aluminum framing, anti-rust coating, leg levelers, rubber on railings, and weather-resistant coating.
Size & Environment
Where will you be placing your pool table? Is there enough space to move around? Can the pool table handle extreme heat or cold? Do you have a balcony or an awning? Take note of these factors. You may end up with a good-quality pool table, but it doesn’t fit in your yard.
Qualities
Outdoor pool tables often have fabric designed to handle moisture. This adds to the durability of the pool table. You should also ensure that the playing space is even and flat. If your pool table is placed somewhere, without a roof above it then you should invest in more heavy-duty materials.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend on an outdoor pool table? Make sure that you get the most value out of your money. But outdoor pool tables are not cheap.
How Outdoor Can Pool Tables Hold Up to the Weather?
Apart from using heavy-duty materials like aluminum, metal, or anodized aluminum rails, manufacturers often add coatings and other materials that are meant to withstand the environment.
For example, outdoor pool tables are often coated with Anti-corrosive or Anti-rust coating. Apart from that, there’s protection, Weather-proofing, and moisture-resistant fabrics all add up to make a durable outdoor pool that can battle it outside.
One of the biggest issues that indoor or outdoor pool tables have is with their fabric. If the fabric absorbs too much moisture, it can damage the whole playing area. Some can even end up having cracks, which makes them uneven.
That’s why for outdoor pool tales, the cloth used is weather resistant. It needs to be water-resistant and tough so that it can be used for a long time.
As for the rubber bumpers, outdoor tables use K55 or K66 rubbers. They don’t wear down as quickly as the regular ones, especially when covered with weatherproof fabric.
How do I protect my pool table outside?
Although outdoor pool tables are heavy-duty, you still need to take care of them.
Always cover it
As a rule of thumb, never forget to cover the pool table when you’re not using it. The dirt and moisture can build up on the cloth. Covering it will keep it clean, so it’s ready to be used when you feel like playing again. The tables will last you longer if you properly take care of them. The longer you can use them, the better value you get out of your money.
Regularly clean it
You can regularly clean it using a table brush. Even if it’s covered, it’s still a good habit to clean it a few times a week. This helps you play on a level surface. It gets rid of gunk too. A clean pool table will be less prone to damages.
Protect it from the sun or rain
As much as possible, place it under a balcony or an awning, so it doesn’t always get wet during the rain or scorched by the sun when it’s too hot. Although it’s meant to survive those conditions, you’ll be able to expand its use if you use extra protection.
Frequently Asked Question
What Are Outdoor Pool Tables Made Of?
Outdoor pool tables are often made of either slate or aluminum. Sometimes it is added with metal castings. But most of the time, it is also equipped with a K55 or K66 rubber cushioning.
Why Should You Invest In An Outdoor Pool Table?
An outdoor pool table is a great way for you, your family, or your guests to have fun. It’s also more durable than your regular pool table. Besides, playing billiards outdoors is much more fun than being cooped up inside.
Why choose an outdoor pool table?
Outdoor pool tables, as mentioned before, are more durable. They can last longer, and they can be placed in your yard without you having to worry. Besides that, outdoor pool tables need less maintenance.
Can you play pool outside?
Absolutely! There are no limitations on where you can play pool. It’s just more relaxing when you play in the open air. The fresh air will help you plan your strategy.
Are outdoor pool tables any good?
Yes. They might even be better than indoor pool tables since they’re not as flexible.
Can pool tables be kept outside?
Only the outdoor pool tables are recommended to be kept outside. Indoor pool tables are often made of materials that can’t withstand the weather outside. It might end up just ruining the whole pool table.
What makes an outdoor pool table?
An outdoor pool table usually has frames made out of aluminum or stainless steel. It can withstand varying changes in temperature and weather conditions. Apart from that, it is coated with anti-corrosive chemicals to protect it from the weather and other environmental factors. Moisture-resistant fabric is also used for the playing surface.
Should I buy a new or used pool table?
If you have a budget to buy a new one, why not buy a new one instead. However, if you don’t play much and are on a tight budget, buying a used pool table isn’t bad either. It will depend on you if you’re okay with a pre-used pool table.
Is it okay to keep a pool table in the garage?
Yes, it’s alright to put it in your garage. Just make sure that it’s not too damp or hot.
Will rain ruin a pool table?
Outdoor pool tables are often made of weather-resistant material. But if you want to play safe, cover your pool table with the coverage that comes with the set. For extra protection, place the pool table where there’s shade.
Should you put a rug under the pool table?
If you want your pool table to keep it from sliding, adding a rug is recommended. But if you’re placing the pool table outdoors (or on the ground), you don’t need to put a rug under it.
Are outdoor pool tables worth it?
Definitely! They’re worth it, especially if you enjoy playing them. They’re also great if you have a family or guests who frequently visit you at home. It can keep everyone entertained — even kids!
Is there such thing as an outdoor pool table?
Yes, there is such a thing as outdoor pool tables. Playing indoors is fun but not as fun as when you get to breathe in the fresh air outside.
Can you vacuum the pool table felt?
Yes, but as long as the vacuum is gentle. You should also check if there’s a nonrotating brush that you can use to don’t end up ruining the felt. It can help remove the debris and dirt and prevent it from building up.
What happens when a pool table gets wet?
It can damage the fabric and the wood, especially if left untreated for a long time. Dry it up as soon as you can.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have an idea of what to look for, you can now have fun searching for the right one for you! All five are the top options for the best outdoor pool table that you can find out there. But like we mentioned before, do a little research to know which one best fits your budget and specifications. Good luck and enjoy!
Mark is a Bloomberg BusinessWeek-based digital entrepreneur, blogger, and table tennis enthusiast. He is a former professional table tennis player with the career-best USATT ranking of 2689. He is also an ITTF Level 3 certified coach and conducts weekend coaching programs in and around the New York area. Mark is also a pool player by passion. He was first introduced to the game of pool at a very early age by his granddad. He had a natural knack for the game and quickly learned the ropes, and by the time he was 15, he was already participating in local leagues. He aims to make it into the APA league someday! Mark started his own blog by starting Indoor Games Zone, where he loves to share his years of experience with the audience. He covers ping pong, pool, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball.
- Ping pong
- Pool
- Air Hockey
- Shuffleboard
- Foosball
Last update on 2022-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
