Buying an air hockey table is a personal decision that should not be taken lightly. There are a lot of factors to consider when purchasing such an item for your home — all entirely dependent on the size and layout of your living space, what you’re looking for in terms of durability and functionality, and the main purpose for which you need it to be used. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of tips from our experience helping others make the best decision possible!
- Number of players who can play on the table:
If you’re buying a new table for the game room, figure out how many people will play at once. The recommended number of people is three. At least two require a whole new table, as the air hockey table is designed to accommodate two players, while three require an additional table.
If you’re looking at used tables, factor in how many people will be playing at once and their skill level. A four-person table can support up to five casual players who want fun just for around the house, while a six-player table will require serious league play!
- Size of the air hockey table:
Measure the area where you’d like to place your new table. Are you able to squeeze it in somewhere? Are there any walls or furniture that will block the field of play? Another factor to consider is whether you have available wall space in your living room or if there’s one piece of furniture that would have to be removed for you to fit the air hockey table.
How much extra room do you need if you can squeeze a six-player air hockey table into a smaller space? You’ll want to factor in how long it’ll take your friends and family members (especially kids) to learn how to play without hitting each other.
- Price of the air hockey table:
If you’re just looking to have fun with the family, a used table may be all that you need. You’ll have to do a little bit of shopping around, but there are great deals to be had on secondhand tables. If you’re in college or headed there soon, consider picking up a used table in better condition than your dorm’s air hockey table — and save some cash!
If you’re hoping to engage in professionally-level matches with your friends and family (or whoever), it makes sense to consider investing in a new air hockey table. Sure, you’ll have to pay more for it, but the opposite is true for used tables that are in poor condition: You’ll be spending a lot more money replacing them.
- Air Hockey Table Brand:
There are a lot of different brands of air hockey tables available on the market today, some more expensive than others, some of which may not live up to the hype. But some meet expectations and perform above and beyond their price (with extended warranties).
Some new brands on today’s market, like Jani and GigaPan, produce competitively-priced tables with great warranties. It’s a matter of finding out which brand you like best and how much you’re willing to spend.