Score Major Points With the Best Air Hockey Tables

What to Look for in an Air Hockey Table

Size

Air hockey tables are available in a range of sizes, from tabletop versions to large models spanning up to 90 inches in length. Regulation-sized tables are typically 84 inches long and about 48 inches wide.

It's a good idea to carefully measure (and re-measure) your space before you buy one to make sure you have not only enough room to fit the unit, but also space for each player to move around with ease.

"Air hockey tables are constructed to accommodate different styles and intensities of play," says Brad MacIntosh, President and CEO of billiards and game store F.G. Bradley's in Canada. "Also keep in mind that as players develop their skills and as the kids grow older, it is possible that they can outgrow basic or toy style air hockey tables," he continues. Thus, you may have to update your air hockey table's size and features as your family grows.

Features

If you want a really premium table for your game room, look for features like automatic scoreboards or changeable surfaces that transform into other games, such as a ping-pong table. You can also find air hockey tables with sound effects and reactive LED lights that illuminate when you score or hit the edges with a puck. Some lighted models can be played in the dark too.

Scoring systems also vary from table to table. "Electronic scoring systems make playing at home more like playing in an arcade. Look for scorers that use infrared sensor in the goal to sense the puck dropping into the goal; they are more reliable than mechanical puck sensors," MacIntosh shares. "Look for electric score units that plug-in rather than take batteries. Some take batteries but also come with an adapter. This will save you money on replacement batteries," he continues. This makes for more playtime without fussing about batteries.

Kevin LaBarre, salesperson and Gametable Department Buyer at Pelican Sports Center in New Jersey has one quality he looks for first when searching for his perfect table. "When looking for an air hockey table, the consumer should be primarily concerned with who is going to be using it," he says. Smaller and beginner players will have different needs than adults and professionals.

Some features offer more control than others. "Some tables have rounded corners, which will allow for more control near the players own goal. Some feature corners closer to 90 degrees which make for a more fast paced game because the puck will bounce back to the player who shot the puck. Again, all about the style of play the consumer likes," says LaBarre. The amount of control needed will vary per player.

Airflow

Another important component of an air hockey table is the airflow. You want something that offers a strong and consistent airflow across the entire surface, as this will ensure the pucks can glide and that the game is fair for both sides. Look for models with a 100-volt fan motor or an otherwise high-quality airflow system.

"The motor that powers an air hockey table should be a high output UL approved motor that will provide smooth consistent airflow while running quietly," according to MacIntosh. Finding a consistent airflow is key for ease of playing and running quietly is a bonus.

Price

Small air hockey tables and tabletop models can be found for under $100, though larger versions with lots of extras and features can go for well over $1,000. If you want something that meets regulation sizing standards, you're probably looking at $800 or more. Decide how much you're willing to invest based on your budget, personal preferences, and how much you think you'll use it.

Different prices will often mean different materials. "As far as price is concerned, the biggest differential consumers will see is the actual construction of the table itself; whether that be MDF or a plastic composite," LaBarre shares.

With different materials come different qualities. "the composite will hold up much longer and is better able to take a beating if you have people who play more aggressively," he continues.

Accessories like pucks are always included and will not affect the price, but not all pucks are created equally. "Each table will include pucks and handheld pushers. Some are more ergonomically designed for the hand, others feature the traditional single post. Either way those are all included in the purchase and won't affect the purchaser price," according to LaBarre.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland is a professional copywriter in the ecommerce space. She has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019, where she covers home improvement, interior decor, and recreational goods. For this article, she spent substantial time researching the different types of hockey tables, reviewed crucial features, pored over user reviews, and carefully considered dozens of options before making her final selections.

Additional reporting was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce and The Spruce Crafts, covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, crafts, and the holidays.

Expert advice was provided by Brad MacIntosh, President and CEO of billiards and game store F.G. Bradley's in Canada and Kevin LaBarre, salesperson and Gametable Department Buyer at Pelican Sports Center in New Jersey.