Buying Guide for the Best Professional Dart Board
Choosing a professional dart board can truly enhance your playing experience, whether you’re just getting serious about darts or are aiming to compete at a high level. Rather than jumping at the first board that looks appealing, it’s important to look more closely at the features that affect feel, durability, and playability. Each key detail—material, surface, wiring, and more—can make a notable difference for how enjoyable and long-lasting your board is. Knowing what each specification means will help you confidently match your board to your practice needs and playing style.Board MaterialThe material of a dart board directly affects its durability, how well it heals after impact, and how it holds darts. Most professional dart boards use tightly compressed sisal fibers, which are tough, self-healing plant fibers that reseal well after darts are removed. This results in longer board life and consistent performance. Paper-wound boards or cork boards are less durable and suited to casual or temporary use. If you practice frequently or want a board that looks and performs well for a long time, a sisal fiber board is the way to go.
Wiring (Spider)Wiring refers to the metal or staple system that outlines each scoring section on the board. For professionals, 'bladed' or 'thin' wiring is preferred as it reduces the chance of darts bouncing out, giving a truer, less interrupted play. Chunkier or rounder wires can cause more bounce-outs and are generally used on more casual boards. Low-profile, staple-free wiring allows your darts to find the scoring segments without interference, so if you’re aiming for serious practice or tournament play, thin and staple-free wiring should be your focus.
Number RingThe number ring is the outer ring showing each segment’s value. Many pro boards have a removable number ring, which may seem minor but helps your board last longer. Rotating the ring after heavy use in high-traffic areas distributes wear, protecting the board from uneven degradation. If your goal is longevity and consistent play quality, look for a board with a removable number ring and remember to rotate it regularly.
Board Thickness and DensityThickness and density determine how firmly the board holds the darts and how well it resists damage from repeated use. Thicker, denser boards (usually about 1.5 inches thick) will stand up better to steel-tipped darts and frequent play; thinner or softer boards are more vulnerable to wear and may not provide a satisfying, solid landing for darts. For frequent players or competitive practice, prioritize a sturdy, dense board for the best experience.
Mounting SystemHow a dart board is fixed to the wall is important for safety and stability. Quality boards use a secure, adjustable mount that allows for easy installation and the rotation of the board. A stable board stays in place during play, while a wobbly or poorly mounted board can lead to frustration or even damage. If your playing space is permanent, look for a reliable, easy-to-use mounting system for both ease and safety.
Official SizeProfessional dart boards follow standard sizes set by organizations to ensure fairness and familiarity, typically with an 18-inch diameter and a 13.25-inch scoring area. Choosing an official-size board guarantees your practice will translate to competitive situations and you won’t need to adjust to different dimensions. If you plan to play in tournaments or want rigorous, consistent practice, always choose a full-size regulation board.