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Most people recommend that if you want the ‘optimal’ experience when you are playing pool, you should invest in a slate pool table. However, let’s be honest for a second, the bulk of slate pool tables are costly, not to mention fairly weighty. They are the sole domain of the rich, or at least those that do not mind something that lacks portability.
Thankfully, there are non-slate pool tables on the market that come close to the quality of slate, but do not boast the price tag. The problem is that they can be pretty tricky to track down. Luckily for you, we have put together a list of the 5 best non-slate pool tables right here on this page.
We spent a lot of time going through pool table after pool table, looking at various customer reviews, to devise a list that we believe really does consist of the best products on the market. We believe that we have a little bit of something for everybody here
We have put together a quick review for each of these pool tables, but if you want something ‘quick and easy’ to allow you to compare some of the features these pool tables boast, then check out this chart below:
Editor’s Choice – Hathaway Hustler 7’-8’ Pool Table
| Product Name | Table Size | Assembly required? | Weight | |
| 1. Hathaway Hustler | 87 inches long, 48 inches wide | Minor assembly | 300lbs | Show Now |
| 2. Fat Cat Tucson | 86-inches long, 45.5-inches wide | Minor assembly | 214lbs | Show Now |
| 3. Hathaway Fairmont Portable | 76-inches long, 43.25-inches wide | No assembly required | 190lbs | Show Now |
| 4. Eastpoint Sports Mastadon | 87-inches long 50-inches wide | Major assembly required | Over 200lbs | Show Now |
| 5. Imperial Non-Slate Outdoor Pool Table | 7-feet Long | Minor assembling | 250lbs | Show Now |
1. Hathaway Hustler
Despite not being a slate pool table, the Hathaway Hustler (see more) is designed to be the ‘focal point’ of any games room. This is not a portable table, so if you are looking for something that you can set-up and take apart on a whim, then other options may be better for you.
The Hathaway Hustler boasts a quality MDF playing surface. While it is never going to be as smooth as a slate option, many people do regard the Hustler’s playing surface as one of the best for the money that you pay for it.
There are a plethora of features here designed to make the game a lot more fun. The rubber K66 cushions will ensure that your balls will bounce exactly how you want them too. The automatic ball return means you do not have to navigate around the table collecting the balls either. It makes life simple.
The construction is superb too. It boasts an elegant, yet modern, look that is bound to look fantastic anywhere that you put it. Due to the heavier weight, this is a table that will not get knocked around easily. You will find leg levelers on each leg of the table. This will allow you to get everything in line properly which means you are going to have an easier time making those shots.
Product Features
- K66 Rubber Cushions
- Playing surface 88-inches by 44-inches
- Warp resistant surface
- Includes accessories such as balls, cues, and frame.
- Leg levelers
- Automatic ball return
- Black Laminate Top Rails
Customer Reviews
Most customer reviews praise the quality of this table, and how fantastic it can be to play on for an amateur. That is purely for amateurs, however. Many people are keen to point out that as a pro, it can be somewhat difficult to play on this table. It has too much of a slant on it. This is purely for family entertainment.
Conclusion
Despite being a low cost pool table, the Hathaway Hustler (see Amazon) brings a surprising amount to the table. Offering a virtually unrivaled playing surface at this price point, and a huge number of features, the Hathaway Hustler is perfect for anybody that needs a decent pool table for a family room.
2. Fat Cat Tucson
The Fat Cat Tucson is a superb pool table for those that need a new addition to their games room. Designed with looks in mind, the combination of black styling and bright sapphire-colored felt will ensure that this will easily be one of the best looking pool tables money can buy.
The Fat Cut Tucson boasts a 3/4” MDF playing surface. The thickness of the MDF ensures that the table is a lot more resistant to warping. It also helps to ensure that the overall playing surface is as smooth as possible ‘out of the box’.
The look of the Fat Cat Tucson is perfect for anybody that wants more of an arcade retro style to their games room.
Product Features
- Playing surface: 75-inches by 37.5-inches
- Automatic ball return
- Leg levelers
- 3/4” MDF playing surface
- Includes all required accessories
Customer Reviews
Customers suggest that this is probably one of the best budget pool tables on the market. They seem to love the playing surface, and it should remain reasonably straight when it is coupled with the leg levelers.
The main issues with this table seem to be focused on the felt. While the felt does look and feel good, it is not a felt that can be replaced. This means that, eventually, the felt will start to fall apart and there isn’t much you can do about it. This will mean a whole new table.
Conclusion
The bright colors of the Fat Cat Tucson are sure to ‘pop’ whatever room you place it in. This is a table that is built to last years, and it is suitable for those on even the smallest of budgets.
3. Hathaway Fairmont Portable
This is the first portable table on this list. While the Hathaway Fairmont has a smaller playing surface than the other offerings on this list, it still boasts a fantastic playing experience.
This portable table is ‘ready to play’ right out of the box. All you need to do is unfold the legs. The smaller size o the table means that it should be dead simple to put into storage too.
The surface of the table is immensely responsive, with the wool cushions providing even the best rubber cushions on the market a run for their money.
Product Features
- Portable and foldable
- Playing surface 66” by 33”
- L-Profile Rubber Cushions
- 5″ Top Rails
- Includes all required playing accessories
- Wool cushions
Customer Reviews
Customer praise how responsive the table is. They also praise how simple it is to put it together. In fact, out of the box, you need to do nothing more than unfold it. You could be playing within mere minutes. Customers also praise how stable the table is, despite the portable nature of it.
In the past, Fairmont had a couple of manufacturing issues with this product, which did cause issues out of the box. However, recent reviews seem to indicate these problems have been cleared up.
Conclusion
While the playing surface of the Hathaway Fairmont Portable (shop now) is seen by some as somewhat on the small side, it is this small playing surface that makes it perfect for portability. It can fit into just about any room. This makes the Hathaway Fairmont perfect for amateur players.
4. EastPoint Sports Mastadon
The EastPoint Sports Mastadon (see Amazon) is a pool table designed for those that enjoy the traditionally-designed tables, but perhaps do not have the cash to spend on a table like that.
This pool table is far larger than any of the others we have included on this list. This is because it has been designed to be so much more than a pool table. It is meant to be the focal point of the room. The source of your family’s enjoyment.
Product Features
- Dimension: 87 inches L x 50 inches W x 31 inches H
- Drop pocket design
- Leg Levelers
- K-66 Rubber bumpers
- Includes all required accessories
Customer Reviews
Many customers that purchase the EastPoint Mastadon heavily praise the table’s design. Not just in looks, but when it comes to how responsive the table is, in particular the table’s cushions. They have the perfect amount of ‘bounce’ to them.
The main complaint about this table is the fact it is made of plastic, not wood. That being said, a table constructed completely from wood would be considerably more expensive than this. Do bear in mind that this is a table that does require some assembly. Customers report that it can take several hours to put together.
Conclusion
With its old-fashioned styling, the EastPoint Sports Mastadon (shop now) is unlikely to be a pool table for everybody. However, for those that are designing a more traditionally-designed sports room, buy do not wish to splash the cash on an expensive slate table, this is a viable option.
5. Imperial 7-Foot Outdoor Non-Slate Pool Table
The Imperial pool table is a far cry from any of the other products on this list. This is because it is the only pool table here designed to be used outdoors. In fact, the marine-grade hardware means that it can stay outdoors, even in the wettest of weather.
Everything about this table has been designed to be durable in the elements. This means aluminium construction, a water-resistant table felt, and rustproof hardware.
Add in the fact that it is a 7-foot table, and you have something suitable for most people.
Product Features
- Dimension: 90 x 45 x 12 inches
- Aluminum construction
- Hose-down to clean
- For use outdoors
- Includes all accessories
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews talk heavily about how durable this product is. It is easily going to last years. The felt isn’t going to feel like your traditional pool table, though. This is all due to the waterproof nature of the felt. This is a sacrifice that you need to make if you want an outdoor pool table.
Conclusion
For an outdoor non-slate pool table, you will struggle to find something better than the Imperial. Playing on it may feel a little bit off for the first few games, but it won’t be long before you adapt your playing style.
Related Questions
Are slate pool tables better than non-slate pool tables?
For amateur and intermediate players, there should be no issues playing with non-slate pool tables. They are cheaper, lighter, and far more portable. Slate pool tables are for those with larger budgets, and those that are playing pool to a professional standard.
How long do non-slate pool tables last?
This is dependent on the table purchased, as well as the conditions that the pool table is stored in. Assuming the environment is not too humid, your typical non-slate pool table can last at least a decade. Although, do bear in mind that they will never last as long as their slate counterparts.
See Also:
How To Tell If A Pool Table Is Slate Or Wood
Slate Pool Tables VS Non-Slate Pool Tables
4 Best Mcdermott Pool Cue Reviews – Detailed Reviews
