About Foosball Tables
Foosball Table Buyer's Guide
Keeping you informed about your purchase before you make a large investment is our goal. Since there are so many different companies that make tables, finding the right one that works for you and your family is critical. We don't want you to spend money and end up with something that doesn't suit your needs now or down the road. Manufacturing and materials costs have increased over the years and finding one in the right price point is important, but we always recommend spending a little more if you intend to use it for many years to come. Below offers the most extensive list of table manufacturers you can find anywhere online. Click on the manufacturer logo to learn more about their company and the models they manufacture.
Keeping you informed about your purchase before you make a large investment is our goal. Since there are so many different companies that make tables, finding the right one that works for you and your family is critical. We don't want you to spend money and end up with something that doesn't suit your needs now or down the road. Manufacturing and materials costs have increased over the years and finding one in the right price point is important, but we always recommend spending a little more if you intend to use it for many years to come. Below offers the most extensive list of table manufacturers you can find anywhere online. Click on the manufacturer logo to learn more about their company and the models they manufacture.
American Foosball Table Companies
French Foosball Table Companies
German Foosball Table Companies
Italian Foosball Table Companies
Spanish Foosball Table Company
Czechia Foosball Table Company
Chinese Foosball Table Companies
Types of Foosball Tables
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Standard
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Coin-Op
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Children
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Outdoor
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Coffee & Coolers
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Standard Size Home Models
The most popular style of table made is an adult or standard size table intended for home use, thus not requiring coins to retrieve the balls. Every company makes one of these free-play models because they sell so frequently. They are typically 56 inches (just under 5 feet) in length and have a large range of quality and price. More expensive models have premium features like thicker cabinet walls, enhanced convenience like adjustable leg levelers and men designed with feet that have great ball control. These kinds will last for a lot of years even with frequent play.
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Standard Size Home Furniture Models
This is another variation of a regulation size but offers a wide variety of design and cabinet finishes. These have gained in popularity in recent years as adult home owners are looking for a table that matches their decor without looking like a toy. These are generally more expensive than standard versions due to the quality parts, exterior finish, unique leg designs and character they can offer to your game room. Most offer the same parts on the inside so the playability is not impacted by the aesthetic design.
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Coin-Op Bar Models
Coin-operated foosball tables are mainly designed for commercial use for bars or tournament play. Most are made with more durable, heavy-duty materials that can withstand a lot of routine play and abuse from many different types of players novice to pro. These models can be used in arcades, pubs, restaurants, and other public places. Bar owners like these because they can be another source of revenue for the business. They are designed with the ability to stop the balls from going down the return until you put quarters into the coin mechanism. Typically a key is used to open the lid in case you need to work on them or retrieve the coins. |
Child Size Models
Kids models are generally on the lower end of the price range offered by a manufacturer. They offer a smaller foot print typically at 4 feet in length and most are even made at a lower height to allow younger children to see the action on the playing surface. Sometimes you will see fun features on these such as electronic scoring, lights and sounds to appeal to a younger audience and keep them engaged in the game. |
Portable Tabletop Models
It’s much smaller and lighter, and it can be carried around the house or taken anywhere you want. Tabletops have the advantage of being able to be placed on a table, the floor, or some other hard surface, depending on what is most convenient for the players. Tabletops, including stand-alone models, differ in quality, with some being made of plastic. They’re great for young children who are just getting started with the game, as well as beginners who are trying it out to see if they like it. They are much less expensive, so if you want to get your kids a toy to play with before they get bored, this could be the way to go. If you purchase one, make sure the base has non-scratch, non-slip pads to protect the board. |
Combination
Made for kids, combo tables can be converted into a variety of other games such as air hockey, table tennis, chess, checkers, bowling, shuffleboard, and so on. These are perfect for kids because they often times like to switch between many games and this will conserve space in your game room as opposed to purchasing 5-10 different gaming tables. They are the most versatile of all the different styles. |
Outdoor Models
These are specifically made to be played outside with parts that can withstand the elements. Anti-rust stainless steel, chrome plated, laminates, high quality resins and more can be found in the materials used which leads to a higher price point. You will find these for use in backyards, decks, patios, beaches and more. |
Foosball Coffee Tables
Almost a novelty piece, these are multi-functional and designed for a living room or game room to not only play the game but to rest your food or drink on it when not in use. Most will not offer the same playing characteristics as a standard size because there are less rows of guys and the ball control isn't the greatest, but can still produce a fun game without taking up additional space.
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Foosball Coolers
Another cross-functional piece is the cooler designed with a playable foosball table mounted to the lid. Like the coffee tables, typically these have a reduced number of bars with only a single defensive rod so are designed for 1v1 play. The nice thing is your beer stays cold inside! Imagine having this outside at your next family gathering or party?
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Table Construction Materials
Solid Woods
Solid wood tables are typically made with maple, oak, birch or cherry woods and are the most expensive models. They are typically referred to as furniture-style with uniquely carved legs and come from manufacturers that have experience making other product lines such as chairs, tables, couches, etc. |
Medium-density Fiberboard
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is a human engineered type of wood that starts by breaking down wood into fibers, combining it with wax or resin binding agent and forming it using high temperatures and pressure. This process results in a more sturdy product than particle board and most tables are made from this material. |
Particle Board or Plastic
Particleboard (also known as chipboard), which is much less sturdy as it's made up of large chips of wood that are bound together with glue and resin. Particle boards and plastics are cheaper materials and can be found on children's table models to cut costs. You will find these materials on tables under 100 pounds. |
Different Types of Foosball Rods
Types of Foosball Table Players
Rounded Toe Design
You will find this design on older or less expensive toy models. The basic foot design is smooth and doesn't produce a good grip on the ball when you need to pin it down or stop it from going by your man. |
Cross-Hatch Toe Design
Believe it or not, this little modern innovation with the little ridges on the bottom of the players' feet will allow you to control the ball, especially when you are pinning it down for a shot like the Snake. |
Counterbalanced Players
Weights in the head and toe allow you to position the men horizontally and they will not fall down. This is beneficial for 1v1 games when you want to keep your guys from blocking the shots from the back. |
Additional Foosball Table Educational Articles:
- Foosball Table Features - Make sure you know the features and parts to look for when you are shopping.
- Table Cleaning and Maintenance - Many people overlook the importance of maintenance and keeping things in good shape. Make sure you know how to keep it maintained and it will last much longer and perform better.
- How to Level a Foosball Table - Learn a variety of methods for leveling your table and ensuring top performance, whether you have adjustable leg levelers or static legs.
- Foosball Table Reviews and Ratings - Compare and research your model before you buy. We provide an unbiased opinion that will help you pull the trigger on your big purchase.
- Best Foosball Tables - Learn our top two recommended models on the market. Trust us, you will be playing what the pros play.
- Foosball Table Parts - Are you looking to learn more about parts and accessories? Or maybe you are just looking for how to repair and replace a part? This section includes detailed information on all the parts you will need.
- Foosball Table Dimensions - Are you trying to determine how much space you need in your game room? Have no fear, we have the measurements you need to make sure your new game will fit.
- Foosball Table Prices - We have compiled more research than any other site to help you in selecting the right price range.
- Used Foosball Tables - Are you interested in saving anywhere from 20-50% off the original price? Make sure you understand what to look for in a used model before you buy.
- How to Assemble a Table - A common mistake people make is install the offensive rods in the defensive position, especially since there are multiple 3 man rods that must go on your table. This article will teach you how to avoid these common mistakes.
- How to Disassemble a Table - Before you take apart your entire table for your next big move, make sure you read this article to see if you can avoid disassembling it and save yourself time and potential damage.