Here, in this article, we’ll discuss everything that you should know about foosball tables. We will cover all kind of tables that includes wooden, used, for kids, 3 in 1 and much more. People are also asking where they can get the replacement parts, combo, and accessories that we’ll discuss in detail in the below section.
If you never played foosball, then there is a chance you might have seen it sometimes in a pub or a coworking space where two or four people are playing it together on a table with rods. The game is objective is very simple. One who gets the most goals win the game. The game is driven by ball maneuvering where you have to show your ambidextrous skills to win the game.
There are a total of eight number of rods in the table in which each team has control over four rods. It’s very clear which rods you have to control as they have a handle on it.
Then you have to use your wrist to control the ball and score against the opposing team. This is a basic technique, though there are a lot of tactics that are used by the players. What I appreciate about the game that it can be played by people of all ages. Foosball is pretty simple, and you will learn it pretty quickly. There are professional tournaments organized as well where people around the world show their foosball skills.
These foosball tables can be easily found in the pubs, office recreation room, and in coworking spaces as well. When it comes to variety, there are different types of foosball tables available in the market. We’ll talk about all different brands in detail in the below section.
There is a huge diversity in these tables. Some tables can be used as a coffee table and also have a table tennis combo; there are few electronic ones as well in the market. You also have multiple goalies or single goalie options to choose from. There are also some antique top rated convertible options available that you can get by spending some extra bucks.
I think that it is a great indoor option. It creates a new gaming room experience that gives a good time for your family and guests. As, there are dozens of variety available in the market, choosing the right foosball table is a bit difficult. So, we’ll talk about those things in details that you have to keep in mind in the below section. The price range varies from a hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
If you want to play the foosball outside, then you can go for outdoor options as they are waterproof and you can play in rainy conditions as well. Most of these tables are crafted based on whether it’s for kids, amateurs or Professional players. There are different dimensions options as well, so buy the one depending on the availability of the space.
Types of Foosball Tables
In this section, we’ll talk about the different types of foosball tables. So, you can choose the one that suits you the best. There are four different main categories. So, let’s talk about each one by one.
1- Standard Sized Table:
This is the regular and most popular type of table that people go for. This is a full foosball gaming table. It won’t be coming assembled; you have to put all the parts together. These tables are not very portable. So, once they are put in one place, from there only, you have to use. They are heavier to other variety of tables and made up of solid wood. You will also see MDF particles are used in few models. It can weigh up to 100 pounds in some cases. However, the quality of the foosball table varies depending on the brand and how much money you are spending. In some brands, the standard size might vary, so it’s important to make sure before ordering that you are getting the foosball table of your desired size.
2- Combination Tables:
The combination foosball table is recommended for those, who instead of foosball game, want more fun. This one allows you to convert your table in multiple game options. You can play foosball, air hockey and also billiards at the same table. These kinds of table add more fun to the gaming, and you can play the game depending on your mood. However, the cost of these combination ones would be higher than the standard traditional tables. If you are living in a joint family, then I am pretty sure, not everyone going to love the same game. Few might love air hockey, while others want to play the billiards. So, kind of options that you get is brilliant in this case, and you get more fun with it.
3- Coin-Operated Foosball Tables:
These are tables popular in commercial and business use. There is no point of buying this table if you are buying it for personal use. You might find these coin operated tables in sports bars, arcades, and pubs. These are heavy duty tables and made to last of long years. So, if you own a shop or a bar where you want to put something for fun and want to make money at the same time, this is the option that you can go for.
4- Mini Tabletop Foosball Tables:
These are the small size foosball tables which are made for kids. They are perfect for small spaces; you can just put on the table and start having a good time. You have to put these tables on a sturdy surface; you can put in on the dining table, coffee table or any solid flat area from where you can grip the handle comfortably. This kind of tables are preferred by kids as they are very portable and you can also carry them around in your house. You can also carry it while traveling. Though, most of this table is very cheap in built quality. So, handle them with care if you are thinking of buying one.
Things to keep in mind before buying one
As there are tons of variety available in the market, it becomes quite difficult to choose the best one. So, in this section, we’ll talk about some of the important things that you need to keep in mind before buying one. Read this section carefully and thoroughly so that you don’t miss any important point.
Build Quality:
This is one of the important things that you have to keep in mind. Check the reviews online and see what kind of material is used in building the table. Most of the cheap tables use the particle board which deteriorates with time and then don’t expect a good life of the table. It also affects the stability of the table as it becomes quite an unstable one the screws start to loosen up. If the thickness of the table wall is less than 1/2? or it weighs less than 50 pounds, and the chances are very high that it is made up of cheap quality particle board.
The Quality of the table would depend upon how much you are spending. Below $100 range, you will only find a cheap quality table. If a lot of people are going to use the table and it’s always occupied, I would recommend you to spend around 400-500 dollars to get a sturdy, durable foosball table.
The good quality tables come with composite material, or they use the solid wood, though not all wood is created equal. The composite material has more resistant to humidity, moisture and remains in their exact shape for a longer time. I would say that buy a table which is at least 1 inch thick. If the table is very lightweight, it will move to and fro while you are playing and it will not be good for your gaming experience. So, cross-check the build quality properly, before you place your order.
Type of Steel Rods:
Also, check what kind of stell Rods are there in the table. There are especially three types you will get. You can choose among hollow, solid and telescoping type. Hollow Steel Rods are the best ones as they are lightweight, so you don’t have to put a lot of effort while playing. If you are an intermediate or professional player, then you can also go with the solid steel rods as well.
The last option is of the telescoping tubular rod in which inner piece slides into the outer. In this corner doesn’t stick out and the opposite doesn’t get poked by the rod. This kind of build is suitable for kids as they don’t get hurt while playing. You can also choose machine grade cold steel which is the best in the market that you only get when you spend 600 to 700 dollars.
Foosball Table Surface:
There are a variety of surface options; you get with the foosball table. You can go with the hard surface where you have a very fast game which is mostly preferred in US Style game. While if you have a wooden surface which is popular in Europe, you kind of has bit slower game comparatively. There is also the option for tempered glass where you have a very smooth gaming experience. The lining and design on the surface also add up to its aesthetic look. If the quality of paint is cheap, then it will fade out with time.
Height Adjustment:
Does your foosball table have adjustable table legs? If it’s going to be used by people of different age group, then height adjustment is very important. It also allows you to have a stable adjustment on an uneven surface. These levelers help to have a comfortable play for the people of different height. The standard table height is around 36inches.
Available Space:
The availability of space is also very important to point to consider before buying a table. The full-size table dimension is around 56*30*36, so look around in your home where it’s going to fit. Also, consider the extra space that will be taken by rods.
Multiple Goalie Options:
When it comes to the goalie, you get two options. Either you can go for a single goalie, or you can go with three goalies. This convention varies depending on the American and European table. If we compare both the goalie version, then three goalies give you the faster game while one goalie requires more precision and skills. If you are a beginner, then you can go for three goalie model, if you are advanced, then one goalie option would be suitable.
Players on the Rods:
The position and alignment of players on the Rod also vary from table to table. In some cases, the players would be horizontal if you leave the rod ideal. This would be suitable if you are an advanced player. These inbuilt players could be built of metal or plastic. The metal one will give the more torque. Heavier the men are, the more torque, you will get.
Warranty Period:
Warranty of these tables might vary from six months to two years. Cheap quality brands won’t have any warranty as such. If you want a longer warranty period, go with a good brand.
Three Different Levels of Players
Apart from how much money you are spending, it’s also important to consider, who is going to play on it. How old are the players? And what is their experience level?
Beginner Level
If beginners and kids are going to have a casual play, then you can go with a cheap foosball table. You can go with a tabletop option which portable and very affordable at the same time. At this phase, you will learn the basics of the game, and once you get good expertise in foosball, then you can move on with the intermediate level. I would not recommend going for standard size ones as they are bit bigger for kids and they might not feel very comfortable with it. Most of this beginner-level foosball table is cheap in quality, so don’t expect too much from them. You have to handle them with care while moving from one place to another. Also, safety should be the top most priority while buying a table for kids; rods and edges should be smooth. Otherwise, it might hurt the kid while playing.
Intermediate Level
If you already have a little bit experience in playing the foosball, then you come under the intermediate category. There are a lot of mid-level options available. You can get a decent foosball around 300 to 400 dollars. In this case, the table tops are not required as they are meant for kids only. You should go with a standard size table at least weighting 125pounds so that it doesn’t move when you play. The heavier the foosball table, the more stable it will be.
Advanced Level
If you already have good experience in foosball and know the advanced trick shots as well, then you come in advance category. These top models cost more than $1000, and you can use them for commercial purpose only. These tables are heavier than 300 pounds, and you will have a very stable and smooth playing experience. A very good quality foosball table can also cost you more than two thousand dollars as well. So, choose the one where you can show your foosball skills.
Different Foosball Manufacturer Brands | Top 10
Tornado: It is one of the oldest brands when it comes to foosball table manufacturing. They have been creating a variety of high-quality products for the last 45 years. Dynamo is the sister company of Tornado which is owned by Valley-Dynamo.
Shelti: This company is also known for making some decently affordable foosball tables. The company started around 2000, and since then, they are in the market giving competition to the Tornado and Dynamo.
Warrior: They don’t have the variety of products; instead they have only one table which is suitable for American style fast game. The table is a bit costly as it is preferred by most of the professional players.
Bonzini: It is a very diverse brand. They make home models as well as the tables for commercial use. Their foosball parts and accessories are very high end, and their style of play differs from the American ones.
Rene Pierre: If you are looking for aesthetic beauty then this brand could be a solution for you. They make elegant looking tables which are a kind of European style in these tables, skills and precision matter more than the power and speed.
Atomic: This is a very creative company. They recently came into the market and make foosball tables of unique design. They also designed a unique design known as “hammerhead.” Their tables take the game to the new dimension as you can do some cool tricks and shots in the game.
Carrom: This is one of the oldest company. It is owned by American Manufacturer Regent Sports which is into existence since last 100 years. They started with a foosball table, but now they make foosball and another kind of combination tables as well.
Harvard: This is a very popular brand in foosball industry. Escalade is the parent company under which comes the Harvard and Atomic. It is a very diverse brand; they also make fitness equipment as well.
DMI Sports: DMI Sports is also a very diverse brand. It makes indoor gaming equipment like billiards, dart, table tennis and also hockey tables. You can see the brand often in outdoor and indoor sports.
Wilson: Wilson is a very big company. They make a product in every category. You will find them in every department store in the USA.
Best Foosball Trick Shots
In this section, we’ll talk about some of the best trick shots that if you master then it will surely evolve your game and you will be a better player.
1- Foosball Spray Shot:
In this shot, you can increase the diagonal angle towards the wall or the goal. In this case, the ball will travel in the same direction in which it was moving. If in case you spray on the pull shot then the ball will reach towards your goal and push shot will do the opposite.
2- Foosball Goalie Shot:
This is a kind of illegal shot according to the rules, but it adds fun to your gaming experience. In this shot, speed and power are used, and it is very popular in American style foosball. In this case, you have to spin the goalie bar in such a way so that it crosses the entire field. Though this shot takes some time to master and at the starting, the ball will go in weird directions, probably out of the table as well but gradually you can become good at it. Though, you get only one point if you score the goal while some argue that you deserve two.
3- Foosball Tic-Tac Shot:
The foosball tic-tac shot gives you the momentum to hit the shot on the goal. In this case, first you pass the ball between two of your players to and fro, and then you hit it with the perfect angle. Here, it’s very important to have good control over the ball that will only come with practice. Be very careful while doing this, a single mistake and you might end up hitting the ball in your goalpost only. This is a very strategic shot at the same time, you have to see the loopholes, and once the defense is down, you can hit the ball.
4- Foosball Push Shot:
This is one of the basic shot that you have to master. Here, you have to master speed and power. When beginners try to play this shot, they hold the handle very tight. I would suggest you have a loose grip; there should be a gap between your hand and the handle. When you are using the shot, make sure that offensive bars are pulled towards the wall so that you have minimum resistance. This shot becomes more effective when combined with other shots.
5- Foosball Bank Shot:
This shot is mainly played from the defensive side where you bounce off the ball from the wall. The primary objective of this shot at getting the ball at a right angle so that you can hit it toward the goal. From an offensive, then the shot can easily be anticipated, so do little tricks so that you can get the shot before your opponent realizes.
6- Foosball Aerial Shot:
This is one of my favorite shots in which, the ball is lifted between two-player and then you hit the shot over the table. This aerial shot overcomes all the hurdles and goes directly to your opponent’s goal if done right. Though in some places, this shot is considered illegal, but it’s fun to try.
Top 10 Foosball Tables
In this section, we’ll talk about the top 10 foosball tables. It has all kinds of table that includes indoor, outdoor, cheap, high end, combination table, and much more. So, have a look at all the options and then only decide which one suits you the best.
Tornado Sports Foosball Table (Value for Money)
This is one of the most top rated tables in the market that you can buy in 2019. MDF material is used in its construction and the thickness of the board is 1inch which makes it durable and sturdy. Rods are hollow steel which is lightweight so that you can easily control them and take your desired shot. The table dimensions are 56*30*36inches, and it weighs around 200 pounds. It also has a good aesthetic look as it comes with a Mahogany melamine finish and it is manufactured in the USA. Though, MDF material quality also varies but here you get the high-end material at a very affordable rate. There are very few tables in the market which have strength like this one. Below are some of the important points that you should know about this foosball table.
- It comes with one year of warranty, and you get a pretty solid product. Their customer service is also very good. You can email them or dial their toll-free number. They are very quick to respond.
- It is a very heavy duty table weighs around 200 pounds. It makes the table more stable, and it doesn’t move while you are pushing hard.
- The legs of the table have the boots where you can place the shims and level at your desired condition.
- In this table, the game is a bit faster as you have lightweight rods. This is an American style foosball table. It’s really good for beginners as they can easily learn a lot while playing on it.
- It doesn’t have counterbalanced players, and you can retrieve the ball only from one end.
Sports Squad FX40 Foosball Table (Best Tabletop)
This table is one of the bestsellers on Amazon. If you are a beginner, then it’s one of the best tables to start with. This top-rated table will provide you very good gaming experience. The table dimensions are 40*20*8 which makes it slightly bigger than the other tabletop tables. The table is very portable, and you can easily move it from one place to another. It could be a good choice if you want to have a table that can be easily moved from one place to another. Here also, MDF is used which is better than particle board and plastic material. I love its rods as they come with chrome plating which gives more speed to the shot.
- With this foosball table, you will be getting three goals. It’s an American style table, and you will have a very fast game over it.
- You also have manual scorers, so that every time you score the goal, you can move one ring from left to right.
- You get all the required accessories with the product. They also provide two extra balls with Squad FX40.
- I would say that it is one of the best tabletop foosball tables in 2019. It easily stands out from the available cheap and fragile tabletop options.
- Most of the tabletop options are suitable only for kids, but this one can be used by kids and adults.
Harvil Striker 4 Foot Foosball Table (Good Aesthetic)
If the aesthetic look of the table is one of your topmost priority, then this could be a perfect fit for you. There are very few good looking tables available at this price range. This foosball table is very affordable, and when you put it in your house, it looks like a piece of art instead of a gaming table. The table dimensions are 48*23.75*32, and it weighs around 20kg. You have to assemble the table by yourself once you receive the product. Though, when it comes to building quality, it’s not that sturdy, so handle it with care while using it, if you want a longer life.
- Here, you have a large playing surface that gives you more room to try the shots. And, if you are not used to big tables, then you are going to have bit hard times as well.
- It has visually appealing graphics on it that make it look very good. But, it will peel off with time.
- You also get a manual scoring, wooden goal, and two foosballs with the product. The player’s design is very great.
- This is an American style foosball table as it comes with three goalie version.
- Don’t expect too much from the table. It’s not much durable, but you will have a very good time playing on this beautiful piece of art.
Chicago Gaming Signature Foosball Coffee Table (Multipurpose)
This is a multipurpose foosball coffee table. If you want more than a gaming experience, then this could be the option that you can go for. Here, you get adjustable leg levelers which allow you to play at the uneven surface as well. It has a sleek glass top which allows you to use the table as an ordinary table as well. You also get a functional shelf on the below side where you can put the remote controller or books. This multipurpose table is highly durable, and it will last for years without any problem.
- You can put this table at any part of the room depending on what purpose, you are using for. You can use it as a reading table, snacks table and more.
- It is one of the top-rated foosball coffee tables in the market. You won’t find any better deal than this one in 2019.
- The table also looks very good aesthetically as it comes with solid construction and hands carved designs.
- It has telescopic rods and octagonal handles which gives you a good grip and good control over the game.
Garlando G500 Foosball Table (Luxury)
If you are looking for a luxury foosball table, then Garlando G500 is the best option for you in 2019. The company is known for making some high-end products. Their products are a bit costlier, but they are worth your investment. They make a variety of tables, but I would say that this is by far the best one. You can buy it from Amazon, Wayfair, or Walmart as well. It has a very sleek design which gives it a luxury feel. It gives you the feel of modern decor as it comes with light color wood. Though it is not that heavy still you get a pretty durable product.
- More than the foosball table, it looks like a piece of art. If you put in your drawing room, it’s gonna give a different touch to the ambiance.
- There are no levelers and men are also not counterbalanced. This could be a bit downside to the table.
- The rods are lightweight. You won’t have any hand cramps while playing on it. This table is good for kids and beginners.
The Warrior Pro (Commercial Use)
If you are looking for a high-end foosball table that can be used commercially, then this six hundred dollar table could be an option for you. You can call it an entry-level tournament table. Warrior is one of the most popular names in the International Table Soccer Federation. The safety of the players has been kept in mind while building this table. It comes with rod guards that eliminate any possibility of injury to the kids while playing. Though in terms of looks, it’s not very good looking, you get a very decent product in terms of build quality. What I love about the product that you can quickly assemble it once you receive the package. The company claims that it is suitable for commercial use and advanced level game.
- It also has the center and side ball return which makes the game bit convenient as well.
- You also get leg levelers with a table that allows you to play at the uneven surface as well.
- It also has split bearings which helps you in playing powerful and fast shots. However, when it comes to goalie setup, it only has a single goalie.
- Here foosmen are counter balanced; handles have synthetic rubber of red and black color. MDF material is used, and it weighs around 200 pounds after assembly.
Kick Legend (Beginners)
If you are starting in foosball and looking for an entry-level foosball table, then it could be a good one to start with. This 55? the table has a solid build quality and decent looks as well. It is a good option if you are thinking of buying it for personal use. This table is not suitable for heavy usage. It has black color legs with a green surface where players are in red and blue color. I would say that don’t expect too much from it, but it does justice to its cost.
- It has a sturdy solid build and stays at the level. The counterbalanced men and adjustable leg option add to its features.
- What I really like about this table that even though it’s not very heavy but you still get a very stable and smooth playing experience.
- It weighs around 143 lbs, and MDF material is used in its build. Rods are semi-solid and made up of stainless steel.
- You have ball returns on both ends. What I like that you can choose between either a single or three goalie options.
- You can adjust the level up to 5 inches. There is no rubber on the hand that makes it a bit slippery when you are playing it for a longer time because of sweat.
Kettler Weatherproof Indoor/Outdoor Foosball (Outdoor, Waterproof)
This is a unique table and suitable for outdoor adventure. It is a very attractive foosball table and has its Italian brand touch to it. Many times, playing indoor foosball becomes very boring. In that case, this Kettler table is going to help you, and you are going to have a great time. The rods are anti-rust, and players are molded which gives you more durability. Here, the playing surface is made up of glass which gives you a fast and smooth gaming experience. Below are some of the important things that you should know about the Kettler weatherproof table.
- The build quality of the table is pretty good as you have sloped sides and corners, and resin score counters.
- It has leg levelers as well as in outside; you are going to have an even surface where having a flat adjustment is very important.
- It is a European style and comes with one goalie. It handles, it has a silver rubber to give you the perfect grip.
- It weighs around 132 pounds and could be a perfect solution for your outdoor adventure. You can put it in the garden and play with your friends and families.
Atomic Gladiator (Fast Foosball Table)
If you are looking for a fast gaming foosball table, then it could be the right choice for you. It is suitable for the intermediate and advanced levels of players. The table is heavy and sturdy as it is built of thick MDF wood. During play, you will hardly see any to and fro motion. Table rods are also not that have so that you can have a fast movement. You get the wooden handles in this case that gives you the perfect grip. Below are some of the important features of the Atomic Gladiator.
- Here, you have a side ball return that makes the whole process pretty quick. You can also enjoy a few drinks as it comes with integrated cup holders.
- You won’t have counterbalanced men over here. Foosmen look very classy as they have a very realistic face and funny attire.
- If you are looking for a table which is of high end and doesn’t cost you much at the same time, then this could be a perfect choice for you.
Carrom Signature (Best Household Foosball Table)
Carrom Signature is one of the best tables for the household gaming experience. Its dimensions are 55’’ x 29’’ x 36’’. It has one inch thick MDF material which makes it more durable. Its rods are coated which makes them water-resistant. Steel hollow rods with an octagonal handle allow you to have a good grip. You get one year warranty with the product which is pretty good. The players that you get are counter balanced, and it comes almost fully assembled. Below are some of the important features of the Carrom Signature Foosball table.
- It has a burr oak finish on top of medium density fiberboard which makes the table sturdy and shiny as well.
- This is an American style fast-paced table. Though, some users complained that counterbalance is not accurate.