Foosball Table Buying Guide
One of the most classic games for any entertaining game space is the foosball table. The fast-paced
game of table soccer is beloved by many for bringing people together, shouting and screaming over loud
cracks from the sound of foosball strikes. The simple yet competitive game is perfect for individuals of any
age, with little maintenance and upkeep needed.
The foosball table is one of the best games to add to your entertainment setup -- but with so many
options available at Watson's, you may be asking yourself: "Where do I start?"
Types of Foosball Tables
Novice foosball enthusiasts need to know first that the coveted playing table comes in several size
options -- a standalone unit, multi-game table, and tabletop sizes.
Standalone 56-inch Foosball Tables
The standalone foosball table is the best overall option for daily players that need a dedicated
foosball game. Our abundant selection of foosball tables is strictly standalone, as they are the prime way
to play the classic game. These tables are suitable for even the most serious players as they are
specifically designed to withstand and abuse the balls in every game.
Additionally, standalone tables are typically built with sturdy materials and use the classic
one-inch foosball that is universally used in many popular tables. The soccer men are also standard-sized
and made from good build quality. The quality playing surface is made with care to ensure that games remain
fast and fun.
Table Top
The smallest and least expensive version of a foosball table is the tabletop. Serious players will
yield plenty of wear and damage to the table after long-term use. The tabletop foosball option is usually a
safe, inexpensive way to get started, though the miniature option isn’t for everyone.
Multi-Game Tables
These foosball tables typically come with removable parts converted into other forms of game
tables. They also tend to cost more since the focus isn't entirely on foosball. For those who strictly want
foosball tables, this option might not be the best for you. They're only meant for light foosball play but
will do just fine for the infrequent player.
Consider Who's Using the Foosball Table
Since foosball is a game that all can love, it is important to consider who will be playing your
foosball table. Are your children going to be playing? Or is it mostly going to be played by adults? Every
group comes with different levels of "roughness" that need to be considered and analyzed.
Some people prefer to pick a more cost-effective table for those with children to see if they like
it or just in case they do some damage. Others pick up a quality table from the start so that it can handle
more damage in the future.
Many high-quality tables are made with adjustable leg levelers to let the table height change as
your child grows. Other tables even have ergonomic handles for increased safety precautions. It may also be
best to find a foosball table with a ball return mechanism, so kids and adults both don't lose them.
If anyone other than children is going to be playing your foosball table, look for intermediate
tables made with stability for quality play. Mid-level tables and up are also better for adults who may
exert more force onto the table.
Consider the Cost
Of course one of the key factors in deciding the best foosball table is the price and how it fits
into your budget. The quality of a foosball table directly correlates to how much you pay for it. Mid-level tables are some of the best
options for those just getting into foosball. These tables provide you the quality needed to develop ball
control that the entry-level foosball tables cannot provide. With excellent construction comes quality
gameplay, so your table will withstand years of wear and tear.
If you want the ultimate foosball experience, look for a pro-level table. The
professional-grade foosball tables are perfect to play, made from the best materials, and are constructed
with premier care. Many professional foosball tables are weighted down, so there is zero disruption to any
match. Professional-grade tables are built to last and come with replaceable parts to fix anything that may
have been broken or damaged.
Construction Materials
The entry-level foosball tables are usually constructed from particle boards. The materials
included in particleboards consist of wood shavings, sawdust, and chips mixed with resin and then placed
into shape. Particleboards are not the most sturdy material and are made with thinner sidewalls.
Pressed wood is also used to construct foosball tables. The quality of pressed wood often varies.
It is similar to a particle board but is usually constructed with a veneer and then bonded together using
heat and pressure.
Composite materials are also used to construct foosball tables. They are moisture-resistant, so
this foosball construction is perfect for humid basements. Composite materials consist of wood and
thermoplastics such as PVC. Their materials are less likely to warp over time, providing durability for
years to come. As a rule of thumb, make sure these materials are made of walls that are at least one inch
thick.
Solid foosball tables are some of the best types of tables to be made. The only drawback to solid
wood tables is that the ball can be slowed down, as the playfield is relatively soft. Since solid wood
tables are vulnerable to humidity, it is best to keep them in a climate-controlled space.
Playing Rods
A piece of foosball equipment that is overlooked but should never be compromised is the playing
rods on your foosball table. The most popular type of foosball table rods is chrome plated hollow rods since
their lightweight build makes them easy to speed up your gameplay.
Many high-quality foosball tables come with hollow rods. However, some mid-level foosball tables
and many tournament-level tables come with solid steel rods.
Some experienced players believe solid steel rods provide a higher level of control, and they have
higher durability so they may last longer. However, many players prefer the reduced weight of the hollow
rods because it keeps the gameplay moving fast.
Foosball Playfield
The frictionless surface of the playfield determines how fast the gameplay becomes. Solid wood and
particleboard surfaces are some of the slowest surfaces because their playfields are soft. Tables with
laminates are faster, and some tables are constructed of tempered glass to provide the fastest foosball
experience. Consider the playing surface carefully, as those with experience will want a faster playfield
surface.
Foosball Tables At Watson's
Challenge your family and friends to a fun game of foosball with tables from Watson's. A great
foosball table is made for two to four players, making it a perfect addition to any game room. Their
durability and high-quality construction mean that you'll be able to enjoy your foosball table for years to
come safely.
At Watson's, we make sure you have every furniture option you need for your home. We provide an
excellent selection of foosball tables on our site, including those for beginner and expert players. Please
contact a Watson's expert
for additional information on purchasing a foosball table for your entertainment room.