Few things bring a home together like a pool table. It is not just a piece of furniture. It is the heart of a game room, the focal point of a man cave, and the reason friends refuse to leave after dinner. But let’s be honest: a pool table is also a serious investment. Prices in South Africa can range from a few hundred rand for a miniature children’s version to over R100,000 for a tournament-spec slate bed or a custom-made dual-function dining suite.
This guide breaks down the cost of pool tables across every category so you know exactly what to expect before you start shopping.
Pool Table Prices in South Africa: The Complete Guide
Price Summary at a Glance
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Toy / Tabletop / Mini | R70 – R600 | Children, small gifts, novelties |
| Entry‑Level (MDF / Wood Top) | R1,900 – R8,000 | Casual players, kids, rental properties |
| Mid‑Range (Slate Bed / Premium) | R13,500 – R40,000 | Hobbyists, family homes, serious home players |
| High‑End & Commercial | R45,000 – R100,000+ | Luxury homes, pubs, serious collectors |
| Second‑Hand / Used | R1,900 – R15,000 | Bargain hunters, DIY renovators |
Toy & Tabletop Pool Tables
If you are looking for a simple gift for a child, a miniature pool table is the most affordable option.
Tabletop Mini Snooker Pool Table Set
Price: R420 (Was R500)
These mini replicas are designed to sit on a desk or coffee table. They come with a green felt playing surface, six pockets, a full set of snooker balls, a triangle rack, and a cue stick. The entire set is compact and intended for casual play and entertainment rather than serious competition. This is an excellent option if you are on a tight budget or want to introduce younger children to the sport.
Children’s Toy Pool Tables
Price: R70 – R200
Many smaller plastic sets are available for toddlers. These are not for serious play, but they keep the kids busy for hours.
Entry-Level Pool Tables (MDF / Wood Top)
For many South African homes, an entry-level table is the sweet spot. These tables are often made from engineered wood rather than slate, which keeps the weight and price down. However, they may warp over time if exposed to moisture.
Used Pool Table (Gansbaai)
Price: R1,900
A second-hand pool table was listed on online marketplaces for just R1,900. The seller noted that while the board is solid, the mat needs to be replaced. This is a great option if you are handy and willing to spend a bit on new felt.
Used Solid Pool Table (Athlone)
Price: R4,500
Another listing describes a very solid wooden table for R4,500. This price is typical for a used table that is still in good working order.
Shoot Pool Table (Cash Converters)
Price: R4,499
Available at Cash Converters, this Shoot brand table features a clever space-saving design. It has a foldable leg system that makes it easy to store and transport. It also includes an internal ball return system that collects all pocketed balls and routes them to a single side. The cabinet is constructed with a double-walled corrugated frame and finished with a durable oak-patterned laminate.
Shoot Saloon Wood Top Pool Table (Makro)
Price: R5,999
One of the most popular “starter” tables in South Africa. It measures 2.13m long and weighs 125kg. It is a fixed table (non-foldable) and comes with a green felt top. You can find this model at most Makro stores nationwide. It is a reliable entry-level option for families who will play casually.
Freesport Wood Top Pool Table (Sportsmans Warehouse)
Price: R6,999.90 (Was R7,999)
Sportsmans Warehouse stocks the Freesport wood top pool table. It has been discounted recently, making it a competitive option in the R7,000 bracket. The sale price brings it close to the price of the Makro Shoot table, so it is worth comparing the two brands for quality and accessories.
Mid-Range & Premium Pool Tables (Slate Bed)
If you want a professional feel, you need a slate bed. These tables are much heavier and provide a perfectly flat playing surface, ensuring the ball rolls true. This is the standard for serious home players.
The Slimline Home Pool Table (Blackball)
Price: R13,500 (Was R15,500)
Proudly handcrafted in Cape Town, this table is designed for professional-grade playability without the premium price tag. It features a standard 2.1m x 1.2m footprint and a solid Meranti surround, which provides a superior and consistent bounce. The table is highly customisable, allowing you to choose from Classic Green, Royal Blue, Crimson Red, Deep Maroon, or Modern Slate Grey felt. This table arrives ready for play, including two handcrafted bar cues, a full set of balls, a triangle, and chalk. For an extra R1,000, you can upgrade to the “Executive Upgrade,” which adds sleek black trim and high-performance speed cloth.
The X-Leg Executive Suite (Blackball)
Price: R45,995
This is a true “statement piece.” As a multi-functional unit designed for those who demand luxury and functionality, this table transitions seamlessly from a professional pool table to a sophisticated dining or boardroom table in seconds. Featuring a striking industrial X-leg base, this bespoke table is custom-built to your specifications utilizing premium slate beds and high-speed tournament cloth. It includes a matching designer bench set that slides neatly underneath. It is available for delivery across Sub-Saharan Africa from their Cape Town workshop.
Branded Pool Tables (United King)
Price: R15,625 – R22,380
United King offers fully customisable branded tables. You can choose your frame colour (Black, Cherry, White, etc.), felt type (Wool or Speed Cloth), and branding. You can select from existing brand logos like Carling Black Label, Hunters, Budweiser, Gas Monkey, or even have a Custom Branding made. These tables come in 7ft sizes and are available in both “Coin Operated” (for commercial use) and “Standard Domestic.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play on a wood-top table, or do you need slate?
You can definitely play on a wood-top table. They are perfectly fine for casual family games. However, they are more susceptible to dents and warping over time, especially in humid climates. Slate is the professional standard because it is perfectly flat and dead level, meaning it will never warp.
How much space do I need for a pool table?
A full-size 7ft or 8ft table requires a significant amount of space. You generally need to add at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) of cue space around all four sides of the table. For a standard 2.1m x 1.2m table, you will need a room of at least 5.1m x 4.2m.
What accessories are usually included?
Most tables advertised as “complete” include:
– 2 x Cues (often one long and one short for tight spaces)
– 1 x Set of balls (15 reds, 6 colours, 1 white for snooker; or 7 solids, 7 stripes, 1 black for pool)
– 1 x Triangle (the rack to arrange the balls)
– Chalk
Is it better to buy new or second-hand?
New: You get a warranty, the felt is pristine, and you can choose the exact colour and style.
Second-Hand (Used): You can find incredible bargains on Gumtree or Cash Converters. However, you often have to organise transport and removal yourself. Always inspect the table for warping or water damage before buying.
How much does delivery and installation cost?
Pool tables are heavy (often 100kg – 250kg). Many retailers charge a delivery fee of R500 to R1,500 depending on your location. Professional installation (levelling the slate, fitting the felt) is usually an additional cost, though some premium brands include this in the price.
What are “Coin Operated” tables?
These tables are designed for commercial use (pubs, bars). They require a R5 or R10 coin to release the balls. While you can buy them for home use, they are usually more expensive and heavier than domestic models.
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Conclusion
Pool table prices in South Africa can go from cheap to not cheap. Buying a pool table is as much about lifestyle as it is about sport. Whether you’re looking to host game nights, refine your potting technique, or simply elevate your living space, there’s a table out there that fits your vision—and your budget.
In South Africa, the pool table market is as vibrant as ever. With reliable retailers, a wide price spectrum, and a culture that embraces leisure and competition, now’s a great time to make that purchase. Just be sure to chalk up the right questions before you break the bank.