Buying guide
Pool and snooker cues: what to look for
Look at the tip size first: it should match the ball size for your game. After that, choose the length, weight and joint by feel and by how you will store the cue.
Match the cue to the game
| Snooker | English pool | American pool | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tip size | Small | Small | Larger |
| Common shaft wood | Ash | Ash | Maple |
| Ferrule | Usually brass | Usually brass | Often fibre or plastic |
| Why | Suits the smaller balls and precise cueing | Suits 2-inch balls | Suits the larger 2¼-inch balls |
Exact tip sizes vary between makers, so compare the stated millimetre size.
Length
Most adult cues are 57–58 inches. Very tall players sometimes prefer a slightly longer cue or an extension.
Children need shorter cues, and so do shots where a full cue will not fit. A 48-inch or 36-inch short cue is useful for shots near a tight wall.
Weight and balance
Cue weight is usually quoted in ounces. There is no correct weight. It comes down to feel.
The balance point affects feel as much as the total weight. If you can, try a few cues before you buy a more expensive one.
One-piece or jointed?
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| One-piece | Simple, with no joint to loosen | Long to store and carry |
| Three-quarter jointed | Common on snooker cues; shorter to carry | The joint needs looking after |
| Centre jointed | Common on pool cues; very portable | Some players find the joint position changes the feel |
How many cues for a home table?
- Two full-length cues, so two people can play without sharing
- A short cue for any tight wall
- A rest and spider for snooker
- Spare tips and chalk
Looking after cues
Store cues upright in a rack or flat in a case. Keep them away from radiators, damp walls and cold cars.
Wipe the shaft after play, and shape the tip so it holds chalk. Replace the tip when it is worn down or hard.
Common mistakes
- Using an American pool cue with a large tip on small English pool balls.
- Leaning cues against a wall, which can warp them.
- Storing cues in a cold or damp garage.
Questions
Can I use a snooker cue for pool?
Yes for English pool, which uses a similar small tip. For American pool, a cue with a larger tip suits the bigger balls better.
Ash or maple?
Ash is traditional for snooker and English pool cues. It has a visible grain that some players use for sighting. Maple is smooth and pale, and common on American pool cues. Both make good cues.
How this guide is written: from published specifications and standards. We do not claim hands-on testing or give product scores. Editorial standards · Affiliate disclosure.