Billiard Styles: Pool, Snooker and Carom Differences
Differences between pool, snooker and carom tables and cues; which equipment is used where?
Billiards is not a single sport; pool, snooker and carom require different table sizes, rules and equipment.
Pool
Usually 7–9 foot tables, 15 or 9 balls, large pockets. Cues 57–58 inches, tip 11–13 mm. Most common type; bar and club play.
Snooker
Large table (12x6 ft), 22 balls, small pockets. Cues with finer tips (9–10 mm), lighter. Precise shots and position play are emphasized.
Carom (3 cushion)
Pocketless table, 3 balls. Carom cues may be slightly shorter with different tip taper. Popular in Turkey and Europe.
Masi Carbon products are designed especially for pool and carom players; special fine-tip models for snooker may be in our catalog.