Choosing the right pool cue has a significant impact on your gameplay. Some pool cue brands are better than others, so keeping an eye on the brand behind the pool cue you’re eyeing up is recommended.
No matter whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, you need to have the right pool cue.
Why Brand Matters When Choosing a Pool Cue
1. Quality and Craftsmanship
Quality and craftsmanship can make a difference in the performance of your pool cue. Reputable brands will use high-quality materials like maple, carbon, fiber, and premium tips. Just remember to keep on top of pool cue maintenance to keep them looking like that!
2. Specialized Features
Top pool cue brands cater to specific needs, offering break cues, jump cues, or specialty snooker cues. The really great pool cues have advanced features like low-deflection shafts and ergonomic grips. Bells-and-whistles that DO make a difference in your performance.
3. Value for Money
Trusted brands will often provide better warranties and resale value, whereas cheaper brands don’t deliver the same consistency nor longevity.
Top 10 Pool Cue Brands for Every Skill Level
1. Predator Cues
- Why It’s Great:
- Known for advanced technology, such as carbon fiber shafts and low-deflection designs.
- Preferred by professionals and serious players.
- Best For:
- Intermediate to advanced players.
- Popular Models:
- Predator Revo, Predator Sport 2.
Explore Predator cues on Amazon.
2. McDermott
- Why It’s Great:
- Renowned for handcrafted cues with exceptional durability and a lifetime warranty.
- Offers cues for all skill levels.
- Best For:
- Players who value craftsmanship and long-term reliability.
- Popular Models:
- McDermott G-Series, McDermott Lucky.
Shop McDermott cues on Amazon.
3. Players
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable, high-quality cues that cater to beginners and intermediate players.
- Wide variety of designs and styles.
- Best For:
- Budget-conscious players.
- Popular Models:
- Players Classic Series, Players HXT.
- Affiliate CTA: “Find Players Cues on Amazon here.”
Shop Players cues on Amazon.
4. Cuetec
- Why It’s Great:
- Combines innovation and affordability with fiberglass-coated wood shafts.
- Resistant to warping and perfect for frequent players.
- Best For:
- Recreational players and those seeking low-maintenance cues.
- Popular Models:
- Cuetec Cynergy, Cuetec Prestige Series.
- Affiliate CTA: “Check out Cuetec Cues on Amazon here.”
Shop Cuetec cues on Amazon.
5. Lucasi
- Why It’s Great:
- Premium cues featuring elegant designs and zero-deflection shafts.
- Offers a blend of aesthetics and performance.
- Best For:
- Intermediate and advanced players seeking style and precision.
- Popular Models:
- Lucasi Hybrid Series, Lucasi Custom.
Shop Lucasi cues on Amazon.
6. Balabushka
- Why It’s Great:
- Legendary brand with cues inspired by George Balabushka’s iconic designs.
- Combines tradition with high performance.
- Best For:
- Enthusiasts and serious players seeking a classic cue.
- Popular Models:
- Balabushka Replica Series.
Shop Balabushka cues on eBay.
7. Viking
- Why It’s Great:
- High-end handcrafted cues with a focus on durability and style.
- Lifetime warranty against warping.
- Best For:
- Advanced players who want custom options.
- Popular Models:
- Viking A-Series, Viking Valhalla.
Shop Viking cues on Amazon.
8. Meucci
- Why It’s Great:
- Known for soft-hit cues that prioritize spin and finesse.
- Stylish designs with excellent control.
- Best For:
- Advanced players focusing on precision shots.
- Popular Models:
- Meucci Originals, Meucci Pro Series.
Shop Meucci cues on Amazon.
9. Joss Cues
- Why It’s Great:
- Combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship.
- Great balance of price and performance.
- Best For:
- Intermediate players ready to upgrade.
- Popular Models:
- Joss Custom Series.
Shop Joss cues on Amazon.
10. Action Cues
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable cues with simple, functional designs.
- Great for beginners and casual players.
- Best For:
- Budget-conscious beginners.
- Popular Models:
- Action Starter Series.
Shop Action cues on Amazon.
Choosing the Best Brand for Your Skill Level
Beginners
If you’re a beginner, you’re best off looking for affordable, durable brands. Focus on cues with medium weights and tips for versatility in your gameplay.
Intermediate Players
As an intermediate player, you should be looking for mid-range brands that begin to offer improved performance. These will be the types of cues featuring low-deflection shafts for better spin control.
Professionals
As an advanced player, you should be looking at premium brands. Carbon fiber pool cues or even custom sticks will offer you maximum precision while also reflecting that you’re serious about the game.
If you’re still struggling to choose a pool cue, try our handy pool cue buying guide!
Snooker Pool Cues
Snooker cues are different to pool cues, and it’s important not to get the two mixed up.
Snooker cues will have longer and thinner shafts to accommodate the tighter pockets and smaller balls found in snooker. These cues are typically made from ash wood for flexibility and control.
Buying From Your Favorite Pool Cue Brand
Buying from reputable, trusted pool cue brands will make it likelier that the cue you buy will last longer and offer a good performance. While you certainly can find fantastic pool cues from brands you haven’t heard of before, there can be a greater perceived risk buying from names you haven’t heard of before.
FAQs About Pool Cue Brands
Which pool cue brand is the best for beginners?
- Players and Action are affordable and durable, making them great choices for beginners.
Are expensive pool cues worth it?
- Yes, for advanced players, premium cues offer better performance, precision, and durability.
What’s the best brand for snooker cues?
- Peradon and Riley are top choices for high-quality snooker cues.