You’re considering buying a pool table, and you see that there are different options. Today, we’re going to take a look at Slatron and Slate pool tables.
You might have noticed that slate pool tables tend to cost more than Slatron pool tables, but is the price the only difference between these types of tables?
We’re going to look at these two types of tables, how they differ, and how each table serves a different kind of pool player.
In conclusion, we will recommend the type of pool table that we think is the better of the two. The recommendation is only a suggestion.
You want to make sure you’re buying a table within your budget.
Slatron Pool Tables
If you’re unfamiliar with what Slatron tables are, they are pool tables with a playing surface made of particleboard placed in the middle of two layers of durable plastic.
The playing surface offered by Slatron places a close second to slate, the professional’s choice for a pool table.
Serious pool players won’t be impressed by a Slatron pool table unless they have played on other synthetic pool table surfaces.
While they are considered a better alternative to a table made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF), it is still no match for a slate pool table.
Slatron tables are better than MDF models because they offer better quality playability. MDF tables have a reputation of warping over time due to exposure to moisture.
While there is still a possibility of warping with a Slatron pool table, you can get 10 to 15 years of play out of one, as long as you take good care of it and do regular maintenance.
Families looking for a pool table for their recreation room will enjoy playing pool on a Slatron table. They are easy to move, with an average weight ranging from 300 to 400 pounds.
As far as price is concerned, Slatron pool tables can cost anywhere from $400 to $900, and if you’re lucky, you can find one for $500.
Slate Pool Tables
Slate pool tables are considered the best quality pool tables out there. It is known to be the most accurate playing surface that holds its integrity.
Slate tables are the type of table you find in a club, pool hall, or pub.
Slate is a solid piece of rock that consists of many minerals, including fine-grain mica, clay, and quartz.
Slate is a perfect material to make a pool table because it naturally divides into wide, level pieces that can be smoothed and polished for a flat surface.
Slate tables are heavier and more expensive than wood; however, their composition ensures the playing surface remains even and level.
When you purchase a slate pool table, the manufacturer will often offer you a lifetime guarantee on your table because they know that they never have to worry about the playing surface warping.
If you wonder where slate comes from, the major slate exporters are Italy, India, China, and Brazil. Ligurian is a region in Italy that is known for its top-quality slate for pool tables.
If you’re looking for a high-quality slate pool table, you want one with the OIS marking, signifying that the table contains an original Italian slate.
Italian slate is easier to work with because it is a softer slate.
On the other hand, the Brazilian slate is a stronger slate that is impossible to break or bend. Its mineral makeup provides for an exceptionally flat surface.
Whether you buy a Brazilian or an Italian slate table, you invest in something that can last for generations.
The average slate pool table can weigh anywhere from 400 to 600 pounds. The cost of a slate pool table can range from $1800 to $3000.
The thickness of the slate used in the table can determine the cost since the thicker the slate, the more costly it is. The thickness of a piece of slate used in a pool table can be anywhere from 19 to 30 millimeters.
If you’re looking at a larger pool table, then 2-3 slabs of slate are used.
Other things to consider
Once you have decided whether you want a synthetic or industry-standard table, there are other things to consider before making your final decision.
Pool Styles and Aesthetics
You’ve decided on a slate or Slatron table, and now you need to figure out what style of table you want.
There are three types of styles of pool tables out there. Here’s a rundown of what they are.
Classic
Classic pool tables are the ones you’ve probably played on when you visit your grandparents. These have the traditional red or green felt and have a hardwood frame.
These classic tables are known to have legs with ornate antique designs.
Contemporary
If you’re looking for something a little different from your grandparents’ pool table, you might want to consider a contemporary design.
These tables typically have a polished black finish and can have blue, or patterned designed felts.
Modern
Modern pool tables are for those looking for something more than just a pool table; it’s a piece of the décor.
Pedestals have replaced these table’s legs, and you can have pockets with a variety of designs, and the felt color choices are numerous.
You can take these tables to another level by adding neon or track lighting or glass LED top covers; your choices are endless!
Size of Pool Table
How big do you want your pool table to be? Eight-foot tables are considered professional-sized tables, and seven-foot tables are considered bar tables.
You also have to consider the space that you’re going to put your pool table in.
Remember, it’s not just the table that has to fit in the room; you have to be able to manage your cue for shots without any obstructions.
Different tables, different uses
We’ve covered the differences between the two types of tables, but you might still be wondering what pool table is right for you.
Here’s our quick cheat sheet on the types of tables and whom their best suited for.
Slatron tables
Slatron tables are the perfect pool table for kids to play on. It’s also a great choice if you want a pool table and you’re on a budget.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money if you don’t have dreams of becoming a professional. It’s the perfect table for family fun.
When you buy a Slatron pool table, you’re getting something that will last you up to 15 years if you maintain it well.
Slate tables
If you’re a serious pool player and have plans on competing in tournaments, then you’ll want a slate pool table.
If you’re used to playing on a slate table, you probably don’t want to switch now.
Slate is the best choice of a pool table if you can find one within your budget.
It’s the perfect table if you’d like to leave something behind for your offspring.
Summary
There are critical differences between a Slatron table and a slate table. At first glance, the price appears to be the most significant difference.
The saying that you get what you pay for is proved true in this case.
Slatron is the best of the synthetic pool table out there when it comes to a playing field, but slate pool tables literally offer a level one.
Slate pool tables cost more because you get a better table when you buy one. You never have to worry about the table warping when you buy a slate table.
If you’re looking for a table that you can quickly move around, you are looking for a Slatron table. These tables are much lighter than slate tables, where you’d probably need a team of professionals.
For those who are just starting out learning the game of pool or want to have one in their recreation room for family fun, then a Slatron table is your best bet. It doesn’t require the same investment as a slate table.
For the pool players who have played for a while and want to enjoy a professional pool table, a slate table is your only option. When you consider the investment, remember that the table can outlast you if you give the table proper maintenance.
You can always start with a more cost-effective pool table and then upgrade to a better quality table as your game improves.
Whatever decision you make about the pool table you buy, you want to make sure you’ve done your homework and are purchasing the best option for your needs. You don’t want to compromise on price.
It’s essential to find a table within your budget and serve you the way you would like it. You don’t want to have any regrets after purchasing your pool table.
The goal is to buy a table that you can enjoy to the fullest. Whatever pool table you choose, you want to have one that entertains you and your family for years to come!
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