Both pool and snooker use cue stick to hit a ball into pockets. While the two games may be similar in many aspects, there are important differences. These differences can help to better understand the game and choose the best game for you.
Both pool or snooker, both tabletop cue sports, are tabletop. While they share the same equipment and rules, the play and objectives of each game are totally different. In a nutshell, pool consists of eight or ten balls whereas snooker has fifteen red balls. The number of balls you'll use will depend on which pool you're playing. Snooker is more complex than pool.
The aim of snooker consists of getting as many balls in your pocket as possible, while keeping your opponent’s ball out of the pocket. You score a point for each red or non-red ball that you pocket. You lose one shot. But if you manage to pocket all of the red or non-red balls, you are awarded three or six points.
A snooker board is similar in appearance to a pool deck, but it has pockets at each end. The table is larger and the balls are smaller. In Europe and the UK for example, snooker tables measure approximately 6 feet in length, while pool tables are only 5 feet.
Like pool, snooker has a very strict scoring system. To earn a point you must place a ball in the correct order. Once all red balls have been retrieved, the frame is finished. The frame is over. Players can then continue shooting until they miss the shot. The rules may differ depending on the region. Some players may choose to play as a call-pocket. This is a great option to learn the game, as you get to pick the pocket ball.
Snooker uses lighter cues than pool. They also have smaller tips. It can be more challenging to pocket balls because snooker takes place on a larger playing surface. You also need to be more precise.
A player can go from 8-ball up to 9-ball. There are many variations of pool that will suit any level of play. Most players prefer the 8-ball version of the game.
Snooker is a lot more competitive than pool. With the green call, players try to score as many points as possible in a short time. The winner is determined by the player with more points.
Both pool and snooker are fast-paced games, which requires quick reflexes. However, the scoring system is more stringent in snooker. Even when the player pocketed all the balls in sequence, if they pocketed a striped or non-red ball, they were considered fouls.
The game of snooker, or pool, can be entertaining no matter what your preference. The game is a popular sport in both the US and the UK.