Snooker Table Dimensions: Official Sizes, Space Requirements & Buying Guide

If you’re just getting into snooker or thinking about setting up your own playing space, one of the first questions you’ll face is: what are the official snooker table dimensions? Unlike pool or billiards, snooker is played on a much larger table, and the right dimensions can make or break your experience.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about snooker table dimensions — from official tournament standards to home-friendly sizes, plus setup tips, buying advice, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly what size table suits your needs.

Why Snooker Table Dimensions Matter

The size of the table directly affects gameplay:

• Skill level required – Larger tables demand better cue ball control, long potting accuracy, and strategic play.

• Space requirements – Without enough clearance around the table, even the best players will struggle.

• Authenticity – If you want the “real” snooker experience, playing on regulation dimensions is essential.

Unlike pool, where smaller tables are common, snooker is traditionally played on a full-size table that challenges even the most skilled professionals.

Official Snooker Table Dimensions

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) sets the official size for professional competition. According to their standards:

• Playing area (cushion to cushion): 11 feet 8.5 inches x 5 feet 10 inches (3569 mm x 1778 mm).

• Overall table size (edge to edge): approximately 12 feet x 6 feet.

• Height of table (floor to top cushion): 2 feet 9.5 inches to 2 feet 10.5 inches (851–876 mm).

• Pocket openings: Corner pockets measure about 3.5 inches (89 mm) across, and middle pockets slightly wider.

This is the table size used in all professional tournaments, including the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre.

Other Common Snooker Table Sizes

Not everyone has the luxury of space for a 12 ft x 6 ft table. That’s why manufacturers also make smaller versions suitable for clubs, pubs, and homes:

Table Size	Playing Area	Common Use Case
12 ft x 6 ft	11’ 8.5” x 5’ 10”	Official tournament size
10 ft x 5 ft	9’ 5” x 4’ 10”	Clubs with limited space
9 ft x 4.5 ft	8’ 8” x 4’ 4”	Semi-professional play
8 ft x 4 ft	7’ 7” x 3’ 9”	Home play, casual practice
6 ft x 3 ft	5’ 7” x 2’ 9”	Kids and beginners

Smaller tables make the game more accessible while still giving players a feel for snooker’s unique style.

Space Required Around a Snooker Table

Owning a snooker table isn’t just about the playing surface — you also need enough cueing room around the table.

• The average snooker cue is 57–58 inches long.

• You’ll want at least 5 feet of clearance around every side of the table.

So, for a 12 ft x 6 ft table, the total room size needed is about:

👉 22 ft x 16 ft (6.7 m x 4.9 m).

If you’re considering a table for home use, measure your available space carefully before buying.

Snooker vs. Pool Table Dimensions

Many people confuse pool and snooker tables, but their dimensions are very different:

Feature	Snooker Table	Pool Table
Full-size dimensions	12 ft x 6 ft	9 ft x 4.5 ft (tournament)
Pocket size	~3.5 inches	~4.5–5 inches
Playing surface	Larger, slower cloth	Faster, smaller surface

Snooker’s longer shots, tighter pockets, and bigger playing area make it a much more challenging game compared to pool.

Cloth, Cushion, and Pocket Considerations

Table dimensions are just the start. To fully understand snooker table standards, you should also know about:

• Cloth: Snooker tables use fine napped wool cloth, which slows the balls slightly and affects spin.

• Cushions: The rubber cushions are angled to specific standards (usually L-shaped or Northern Rubber brand).

• Pockets: Unlike pool, snooker pockets are rounded, making potting off the cushion more difficult.

Even a slight variation in pocket cut or cloth type can change how the game feels.

Choosing the Right Snooker Table Size for Your Needs

When deciding which snooker table dimensions work best for you, consider:

1. Available space – Measure your room before you even think about buying.

2. Skill level – Beginners may find smaller tables less intimidating.

3. Purpose – Do you want casual home games, or are you training seriously?

4. Budget – Larger tables are not only more expensive, but also cost more to install and maintain.

For most home players, an 8 ft or 9 ft table strikes the right balance between playability and space efficiency.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

• Floor strength: A full-size snooker table can weigh over 1,200 kg (more than a small car!). Make sure your floor can handle it.

• Lighting: Professional tables are lit with overhead rectangular lighting units to eliminate shadows.

• Leveling: Tables must be perfectly level. Even a slight tilt will affect gameplay.

• Cloth care: Brush and iron the cloth regularly to maintain smooth play.

Fun Fact: Why 12 Feet?

The 12 ft x 6 ft dimension became the standard in the 19th century when snooker was formalized in British billiard halls. The size was considered the perfect balance between challenge and playability. Since then, it has remained unchanged in professional play.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Snooker Table Dimensions

Q1: What are the official snooker table dimensions?

A: The official playing area is 11 ft 8.5 in x 5 ft 10 in, with an overall table size of 12 ft x 6 ft.

Q2: Can I fit a full-size snooker table in my home?

A: You’ll need a room size of about 22 ft x 16 ft to comfortably fit a 12 ft table with cueing space.

Q3: What’s the difference between snooker and pool table dimensions?

A: Snooker tables are much larger (12 ft x 6 ft vs. 9 ft x 4.5 ft) with smaller pockets and a slower cloth.

Q4: What’s the best table size for beginners?

A: An 8 ft or 9 ft table is ideal for beginners, offering a balance of challenge and space efficiency.

Q5: Why are snooker pockets smaller than pool pockets?

A: Smaller, rounded pockets increase the difficulty of potting, making precision a key part of the game.

Q6: How heavy is a snooker table?

A: A full-size table can weigh over 1,200 kg, as it is built from solid wood and slate.

Final Thoughts

Understanding snooker table dimensions is crucial whether you’re buying a table, practicing for competition, or simply curious about the sport. While the 12 ft x 6 ft table is the gold standard, smaller tables make the game more accessible for casual players.

If you’re planning to invest in one, remember to measure your space, consider your skill level, and factor in maintenance needs. Get the dimensions right, and you’ll be set for endless hours of snooker enjoyment.

Author Bio:

Dr. Robin Alexander

Dr. Robin Alexander is an MD Pathologist, passionate guitar enthusiast, and lifelong snooker fan. He combines medical precision with a love for music and sport. Connect with him on LinkedIn.