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What Is the Difference Between Billiards, Pool, and Snooker?
Difference Between Billiards, Pool, and Snooker?
If you’re new to cue sports, it’s totally normal to mix up billiards, pool, and snooker. They all involve cues, balls, and tables, but that’s where the similarity ends. Each game has its own unique history, table size, rules, and style of play.
Knowing the differences can help you decide which game suits your skill level, space, and lifestyle—especially if you’re planning to buy a pool table or buy a billiard table for your home.
History of Cue Sports
Cue sports have a rich past that dates back centuries. Here’s a quick look:
Billiards
Billiards originated in France during the 15th century as an outdoor lawn game similar to croquet. It evolved into an indoor table game, gaining popularity among European nobility. The game was initially played with a mace before the cue stick was introduced in the late 1600s. In 1807, François Mingaud, a French infantry officer, revolutionized the game by introducing the leather tip for the cue stick, allowing for better ball control .
Pool
Pool, also known as pocket billiards, emerged in the United States around 1900. It evolved from pyramid pool, which allowed any eight of the fifteen object balls to be pocketed to win. By 1925, the game gained popularity, leading to the introduction of purpose-made ball sets. Various pool games, such as 8-ball and 9-ball, became standard in recreational and competitive play.
Snooker
Snooker originated in the 1870s in India during the British Raj. British Army officers stationed in Jubbulpore (now Jabalpur) devised variations of billiards, leading to the creation of snooker. In 1884, Sir Neville Chamberlain finalized the first set of rules for snooker, combining elements from pyramid and black pool games .
Pool vs Snooker vs Billiards: The Key Differences
| Feature | Pool | Snooker | Billiards (Carom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Table Size | 7 to 9 feet | 12 feet (largest) | 9 feet (no pockets) |
| Number of Balls | 16 balls (15 + cue ball) | 22 balls (15 reds + 6 colors + cue) | 3 balls (2 cue balls + 1 object) |
| Pockets | Yes (6 pockets) | Yes (6 pockets) | No pockets |
| Cue Tip Size | Thick tips (13–14 mm) | Thin tips (9–10 mm) | Medium tips (~11 mm) |
| Gameplay Style | Fast and accessible | Strategic and skillful | Precision and control-focused |
| Popular Games | 8-ball, 9-ball | Full-frame snooker | Three-cushion billiards |
| Space Required | Moderate | Large | Moderate |
| Skill Level | High precision needed | Beginner-friendly, fast-paced | Advanced strategy & skill |
Which Game Should You Choose?
Pool: The Family-Friendly Favorite
Pool is perfect for beginners and families. The smaller table size (7-9 ft) fits well in most homes, making it ideal if you want to buy a pool table for casual play.
- Gameplay: Fast-paced, easy to learn
- Why it’s great: Fun for teens and social gatherings
- Popular versions: 8-ball, 9-ball
Snooker: The Game of Champions
Snooker requires patience, strategy, and skill. It’s played on a much larger table (12 ft) with smaller pockets.
- Gameplay: Strategic, slow-paced
- Why it’s great: Best for competitive players and clubs
- Space: Needs a dedicated room with plenty of space
Billiards: The Precision Sport
Carom billiards is played on a pocketless table, focusing on skillful rebounds and control.
- Gameplay: Highly technical, requires precision
- Ideal for: Serious players or cue sports enthusiasts
- Why it’s great: Improves cue skills and accuracy
How to Choose the Right Table for Your Home
Thinking about where to place your new table? Here are some quick tips:
- Space Matters: For small or medium rooms, a 7 or 8 ft pool table works best. Snooker tables need a large room.
- Skill Level: Pool is beginner-friendly. Snooker and billiards require more experience.
- Purpose: Social play? Go pool. Serious skill-building? Try billiards. Competitive tournaments? Snooker.
- Budget: Pool tables tend to be more affordable; snooker and billiard tables cost more due to size and materials.
Not Buy Just a Table: Choose the Right Game Table for Your Lifestyle
Choosing between billiards, pool, and snooker is more than just picking a table—it’s about matching your interests, space, and skill level. Whether you want to buy a pool table for family fun or a billiard table for precision play, understanding these differences will save you time and money.
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