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10 Best Pool Balls Sets

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Pool Balls Sets

Choosing the right pool balls set can greatly affect how enjoyable and professional your games feel. There are a few important factors to consider to make sure the balls meet your needs, whether you play casually at home or host competitive matches. Understanding the main characteristics of pool balls helps you pick a set that not only looks nice but also lasts for many games and performs well.
MaterialThe material of pool balls is important because it affects how long the balls last, how consistently they roll, and how easy they are to keep clean. Most sets are made from polyester or phenolic resin. Polyester balls are more common and affordable, but they can chip or fade over time. Phenolic resin balls are more durable, maintain a bright shine, and are used in professional settings because they're highly resistant to chipping and discoloration. If you need balls for casual play or occasional use, polyester may be enough. If you play often or care about long-lasting performance, phenolic resin is a smarter choice.
Size and WeightStandard pool balls are 2-1/4 inches in diameter and weigh about 5.5 to 6 ounces each. The size and weight are important because they affect how the balls react to being hit and how they move on different tables. Using the standard size helps you practice just like you would in most public or competitive settings, ensuring that your skills translate well. Smaller, lighter balls might come with toy or compact tables, but for a normal playing experience, always look for standard size and weight. Consider your table size and who will be playing—standard balls are best for adults and older kids on regular-size tables.
Finish and ColorThe finish on the balls, often a glossy polish, keeps them looking attractive and allows for smooth rolling. A high-quality finish reduces friction, making gameplay more consistent, and it also helps protect the colors and numbers on the balls. Vibrant, clear colors with sharp numbers make it easier to identify each ball from a distance and avoid confusion during play. If you play in a room with less lighting, higher contrast colors and bold numbers can be particularly helpful. For social games, you might enjoy themed balls, but official play requires traditional color schemes.
Balance and RoundnessPerfectly round and balanced balls ensure that they roll true and react predictably, especially when making precision shots. Imperfections in the roundness or balance can cause balls to wobble or veer off unexpectedly. High-quality sets are manufactured with strict controls to maintain a perfect sphere and consistent weight distribution across each ball. If you're focused on practicing skills or preparing for competitive play, choosing a set known for precise balance and roundness is important. For family fun, minor imperfections may not matter as much.
Type of SetPool balls come in different set types depending on the game you intend to play—such as American 8-ball, snooker, or carom. Most home sets are for 8-ball or 9-ball pool and include 15 numbered balls plus a cue ball. Snooker and carom sets have different colors, sizes, and quantities. Make sure you choose the set that matches your preferred game rules so you have the right balls for every match. If you play a variety of games, some sets offer a mix of balls for multiple styles.