Skip to content
Wondering what game is actually played on a billiard table? Short answer: pool, snooker, and carom billiards—each part of the Pool vs. Billiards family. If you’ve ever mixed them up, you’re not alone. Keep reading to uncover the quirky history, rules, and real differences behind these cue-sport classics.
The Primary Categories of Cue Sports
Cue sports include several branches, and the term “billiards table” can refer to multiple types of games. Each has its own rules, equipment, and style. Understanding these categories helps explain why a single table design cannot suit every game.
Pocket Billiards (Pool): The Most Common Game
Definition: Played on tables with six pockets
Pocket billiards, often simply called pool, is played on a table with six pockets. These pockets sit at the four corners and along the sides. They are essential to the game’s scoring and overall pace.
Standard Table Size: Typically 7, 8, or 9 feet long
Pool tables usually measure 7, 8, or 9 feet. Smaller sizes are common in pubs, while larger ones are used in more formal settings. Many home players prefer the 8-foot option for convenience.
Equipment: One cue ball and 15 object balls (solids and stripes)
Pool uses one cue ball and fifteen object balls. They are split into solids and stripes, with goals differing depending on the game. Despite variations, pocketing balls remains central.
Related Keyword: Pocket Billiards vs. Pool
The formal name is pocket billiards, but most players refer to it simply as pool. The terms are used interchangeably in everyday conversation.
Carom Billiards: The Pocketless Game
Definition: Played on a table with no pockets
Carom billiards removes pockets entirely. This immediately sets it apart from pool and snooker. Instead of potting balls, scoring relies on clean, controlled contact.
Objective: Score points by striking both object balls
The aim is to score by using the cue ball to strike both object balls in one shot. This shot is called a carom. Precision and angle judgement matter far more than power.
Table Type: Often larger (up to 10 feet) and sometimes heated
Carom tables can reach ten feet in length. Some are heated to keep the cloth dry, creating a smoother, faster playing surface. This helps maintain consistent ball travel.
Snooker: The Game of Precision
Table Characteristics: Played on a massive 12-foot table with smaller pockets
Snooker takes place on a large 12-foot table with narrow pockets. The size alone increases the difficulty. Combined with tight pocket openings, accuracy becomes essential.
Equipment: One cue ball, 15 red balls, and 6 coloured balls (22 total)
The snooker set includes one cue ball, fifteen reds, and six coloured balls. Each colour carries a different value. The variety makes tactical thinking vital.
Gameplay Focus: Highly strategic, emphasising safety play and positional control
Snooker players rely heavily on safety shots and positional play. Every move shapes the next. It’s a game that rewards patience as much as skill.
Popular Variations of Pocket Billiards (Pool Games)
Pocket billiards covers a wide selection of popular pool games. These formats are the ones players most frequently encounter in pubs, halls, and tournaments.
The Most Widely Played Pool Games
Eight-Ball (8-Ball)
Eight-ball features solids and stripes, with players assigned one group. They must clear their group before potting the 8-ball. It’s the version most people learn first.
Nine-Ball (9-Ball)
Nine-ball is a faster, more aggressive rotation game. The lowest-numbered ball must be struck first, but any ball can be pocketed. It dominates professional tournaments.
Straight Pool (14.1 Continuous)
Straight Pool allows players to pocket any ball on the table. Points accumulate steadily. Accuracy and planning are rewarded over risk-taking.
Cutthroat Pool
Cutthroat is a multi-player game where each participant controls a group of balls. The goal is to eliminate opponents’ balls while protecting your own. It’s ideal for groups.
Games Played on Specialised Tables
Some cue sports require unique table designs. This section covers games suited to pocketless tables, hybrid formats, and tables much larger than standard pool versions.
Key Carom and Hybrid Billiards Games
Three-Cushion Billiards
In three-cushion billiards, the cue ball must hit at least three cushions before contacting the second object ball. This adds difficulty and complexity. Mastery depends on reading angles precisely.
Straight Rail
Straight Rail is a simpler carom game. Scoring requires hitting the two object balls with the cue ball. Skilled players can build long runs through careful ball control.
English Billiards
English billiards blends carom and pocket play. It’s played on a snooker table with only three balls. The hybrid style combines both scoring approaches.