Games & Puzzles

Billiards

5 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of billiards — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Billiards gifts usually go to someone who already plays: a parent with a table in the basement, a partner who shoots pool on league night, or a new homeowner with a rec room to fill. The gifts that actually get used improve the table they already have or the game they already play, like a fresh set of billiard balls or a cue that feels right in the hand. A whole table is a household decision, not a surprise. For most people, the best gift is a well-made accessory that fits their setup. Before you shop, check the table size, how they store their cues and whether they play casually or seriously.

Kind 1 of 5

Buying a table for the whole household

A pool table suits a family with a finished basement, a games room or a garage with space to spare. The room matters more than the table: you need space on every side for a full stroke with the cue, so measure the room before you shop. Check the playing surface size, whether the bed is slate or a lighter material, and how it gets delivered and levelled. For someone who already owns a table, a brush and a fitted cover are smaller gifts that help keep the cloth in good shape.

  • Representative photo-style image of premium billiard table brush — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Premium billiard table brush

    A specialized brush designed to keep the billiard table felt clean and free of dust and debris, ensuring optimal play.

Kind 2 of 5

A fresh set of balls

Old balls get chipped, yellowed and scuffed, and they roll less evenly over time. A new set is a practical gift almost any table owner will use right away. Check the size first, since most home tables in North America use standard 2 1/4-inch balls, while some bar tables need a different cue ball. Look for even weight and a finish that resists marks. A training ball with reference markings suits players who want to practise spin and cue ball control.

  • Representative photo-style image of billiard balls — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

    Billiard balls

    A complete set of high-quality billiard balls is perfect for replacing old, worn sets or upgrading a new table.

  • Representative photo-style image of advanced billiard training ball — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Advanced billiard training ball

    Ideal for players looking to improve their shot accuracy and understanding of cue ball control and spin.

Kind 3 of 5

A cue of their own

A personal cue is a good fit for someone who plays often and is tired of warped house cues. The weight, length and tip size change how a cue feels, so find out what they like if you can. Most adults use a cue of about 57 to 58 inches that weighs 18 to 21 ounces. Two-piece cues are easier to store and carry. Smaller add-ons also work well: a tip repair kit keeps a good cue playing well, and a magnetic chalk holder keeps chalk close at hand during a game.

  • Representative photo-style image of premium billiard cue stick — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

    Premium billiard cue stick

    An essential item for any serious player, a quality cue stick enhances precision and control during gameplay.

  • Representative photo-style image of comprehensive cue tip repair kit — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Comprehensive cue tip repair kit

    Equips any billiard player with the tools needed to maintain or replace cue tips, ensuring consistent performance.

  • Representative photo-style image of magnetic billiard chalk holder — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually under $15

    Magnetic billiard chalk holder

    A convenient accessory that keeps billiard chalk readily accessible, preventing misplacement during intense games.

Kind 4 of 5

Tables built for patios and cottages

Outdoor tables use weather-resistant frames and cloth, so they suit a covered patio, a cottage deck or a three-season room. They make sense for a family that entertains outside all summer. Check what the frame and cloth are made of, whether the table can handle humidity and temperature swings, and how level the ground is where it will sit. A durable fitted cover is worth adding to keep off rain, pollen and sun between games, and it protects indoor tables too.

  • Representative photo-style image of durable billiard table cover — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Durable billiard table cover

    Protect a billiard table from dust, spills, and pet hair, preserving its condition and extending its lifespan.

Kind 5 of 5

A proper place for cues

Cues left leaning in a corner tend to warp, and a rack keeps them straight and within reach. A wall-mounted rack suits a rec room with limited floor space, while a floor stand can be moved around. Count how many cues they own, including guest cues, and check whether the rack also holds balls, a bridge or chalk. Match the wood or finish to the room so it looks like it belongs there.

  • Representative photo-style image of wall-mounted billiard cue rack — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Wall-mounted billiard cue rack

    Organize and display cue sticks neatly, preventing damage and keeping the game area tidy and functional.

How to choose billiards as a gift

  • Measure the table and the room before buying anything that has to fit, from balls and covers to a full table.
  • Ask casually about their current cue weight and tip size, since personal feel matters more than looks.
  • Pick gifts that fix a real annoyance, like worn balls, a missing brush or cues stored against a wall.
  • For casual family players, lean toward durable, easy-care accessories over specialist gear.

Usually safe to skip

  • Novelty cues and themed ball sets often look fun but play poorly, so regular players tend to leave them on the rack.
  • Surprise full-size tables often miss because the room size, flooring and household plans all need to be settled first.
  • Generic one-size covers rarely fit well and can slide off or trap dust against the cloth.

Questions people ask about billiards

What size billiard balls fit a home pool table?
Most home tables in Canada and the US use standard balls that are 2 1/4 inches across. Some coin-operated bar tables use a larger or heavier cue ball, so check the table type before buying a full set.
How do I choose a cue stick for someone else?
Start with length and weight. Most adults use a cue of about 57 to 58 inches that weighs 18 to 21 ounces. If you can't find out what they like, a mid-weight two-piece cue is a safe choice, and it stores more easily.
Can an indoor pool table be used outside?
Usually not for long. Indoor tables use wood and cloth that react badly to moisture and temperature swings. For a patio or cottage, choose a table built for outdoor use and keep it under a fitted cover.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All billiards picks

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