There are two types of tabletop game: Pool and Billiards. Both games involve hitting a ball with a cue stick. The differences between pool and billiards are in the size and placement of the balls on the table. Billiards typically uses three balls while pool may use nine to sixteen.
Billiards consists of hitting three balls at once with a long cuestick. This game was invented in the fifteenth century and evolved into a modern version. This game is often mistaken for pool.
Pool is an alternative game. It involves hitting many balls onto a pool board with a cuestick. These balls are typically smaller than those used for billiards. They typically measure two-and-a-half inches in diameter. Depending on what game you are playing, you may also need nine to fifteen of these object balls. Some players only use one red ball while others have seven or more.
The aim of billiards, is to score the most points within a set time. It requires a lot of practice, but it is a very challenging game to master. These are common pool shots that will help you get started. You can find more information about these and other helpful strategies on Bar Games 101.
Although a pool tables can be smaller than those used for billiards, they should still be large enough that you have enough room to play all of your games. Pool tables should measure at least 3.5 feet by 7 feet. You will be more competitive if your pool table is larger than 3.5' by 7'.
You should also make sure your billiard table is covered in cloth. The cloth will help the balls travel faster, but also slow them down.
Billiards as well as Pool are indoor activities, but they have their own rules and features. For example, pool is played on a smaller table with a few pockets while billiards is played on a larger table with no pockets. You will also notice that the cue sticks can be different sizes. You will need a cue that has a longer shaft, and a tip with a thinner tip to match the dimensions of the table.
It doesn't matter which game you play, all you need is a set of balls as well as a cuestick. Billiards can be played on a snooker table or a carom billiards table. Snooker requires more skill and a special set of tools. It can be very fun and many people prefer to play pool at home.
In the United States, pool and billard are very popular. The White House's first pool table was installed by President Grant, it is believed.