Are non-slate pool tables good?

Yes, non-slate pool tables are a good option as long as you search for an affordable pool table.

The low-quality structure of these tables won’t provide you competitive gameplay experience but can still save a few bucks. Moreover, the lightweight structure of the tables makes them highly portable.

So, if you are confused about whether non-slate pool tables are good or not, then you are at the right place. You probably don’t need to have a slate structure on a home pool table with  ping pong. Even a non-slate pool table can provide you are the same fun of pool games decreasing your cost.

What is a non-slate pool table?

Before knowing about the good and bad sides of a non-slate pool table, it is necessary to know what actually it is. A non-slate pool table comes with a thin surface, which has an MDF or wooden. Sometimes the manufacturer also uses synthetic slates like slatron to build the table surface.

Having less thickness on the tabletop doesn’t make these tables a suitable option for competitive gameplays. However, players can have full packed fun in recreational games through these tables. The makers of these tables often rely on fiberboard to make it more durable.

Is a non-slate pool table good?

Yes, a non-slate table is good when you need an affordable table for recreational plays. But again, it won’t be an appropriate option if you want to have competitive gameplay. So, in different circumstances, a non-slate pool table can be good or bad.

1. The affordability is the most interesting side of a non-slate pool table and every recreational player love to go with such a table.
2. Because of using lightweight construction materials, these tables are lightweight. So they are also easier for transportation.
3. Especially, guys who don’t have any mindset having a career in pool games or are new in this field love going for non-slate pool table.
4. A table is also an ideal option for those who don’t want to spend much time setting up a game table.  

Advantages of non-slate pool tables

If you want to decorate your non-slate pool table using lighting for a pool table, you should purchase one first. However, if you are confused about the quality and performance of these tables, check out the advantages below.

A budget-friendly option: If you are looking for a budget-friendly pool table, then there isn’t any alternative to non-slate pool tables. High-quality slate pool tables come with a high-grade construction, so the price is also on the higher side. However, MDF or wooden non-slate tables aren’t that pricey.

Lightweight structure: The use of various lightweight materials to construct a non-slate table makes it a lightweight option. Compared to high-grade slate tables, they aren’t that heavier, and you will notice the difference if you have experience of playing on both these tables.

Easy to move: When we are talking about the weight, we have to tell this. Because MDF tables or non-slate tables are lightweight, the user won’t have too many difficulties in moving them. So if you are worried about the transportation of your pool table, you can get relax now.

Superb option for beginners: If you are still learning the basics of pool table games, you need to require a professional pool table. A non-slate pool table is enough for you to help learn the basics of the game and do it in a budget-friendly way.

Disadvantages for non-slate pool table

Although there are a lot of advantages of non-slate pool tables, you can’t ignore the disadvantages as well. Before making your mind to purchase a non-slate pool table, you need to know the negative sides of these tables.

Prone to damage: The low-quality construction of the non-slate pool table makes them prone to damage. Even continuous hard playing on the table can damage the surface. This is why it is better to use it for fun games, not professional games.

Less smooth and flat surface: You can have better playability when the tabletop surface is smoother and flat. It will ensure the balls will run through the surface smoothly without any interruption. But with non-slate pool tables, you won’t get a completely smooth and flat playing surface.

Warps easily: Another big problem with these tables is that they warp easily. The temperature is the main issue, which causes warping of the table surfaces. One should never keep the table in touch with moisture or extreme humidity. Also, splitting any kind of drinks on the table could make the surface warp soon.

Not durable: If you want a better lifespan or durability, non-slate pool tables will never be a great option to choose. The quality of the construction affects the durability of the table. However, by taking proper care of the table and not playing rough games on it, you can increase the durability to some extent.  

Inappropriate for competitive plays: The design, quality, and durability never make non-slate tables appropriate for competitive plays. These tables can’t withstand the hard shots of the professional players. Moreover, slight careless playing can cause warping of the table surface as well.

Slate vs. non-slate pool tables

After knowing about the positive and negative sides of non-slate pool tables, you might be thinking of turning to slate pool tables. But before you do this, check out the differences between these tables for a while.

Construction: There is no comparison between slate and non-slate pool tables in terms of construction because slate tables are the clear winner here. Slate tables have a strong slate rock construction. On the contrary, non-slate tables have MDF or wood construction.

Surface: Whether you are going to get competitive gameplay or not depends a lot on the structure and smoothness of the table surface. And in this matter, high-end tables will always stay on top. The non-slate table doesn’t offer a properly smoother playing surface.

Gameplay: Slate tables are made for competitive gameplays, and they can withstand the hard shots continuously. However, non-slate tables are a good option for recreational gameplay and for amateur players.

Price point: If budget is the problem you are facing, then go for non-slate pool tables. The low-quality construction always keeps the price lower. However, you have to spend more to have a quality ensured slate pool table.

Portability: In terms of easy movement or portability, a non-slate pool table will go on well. These tables weigh around 200 pounds most of the time, whereas slate pool tables weigh around more than 500 pounds. The heavier one is always tough to move and carry. If you want to easily maneuverability of the pool table, then go for a non-slate one.

Lifespan: The build quality and how well the user takes care of the table impact the lifespan of a non-slate pool table. These tables are constructed of several materials, and they aren’t durable enough. And due to continuous use of these tables, it is obvious to have some damage on it.

On the other hand, you may not get any little or big damage on a well-constructed slate table. Ultimately, it ensures long-lasting performance. However, non-slate tables will damage due to humidity and excessive moisture as well. 

How to prevent pool table slate from warping

It is a common problem for low-grade pool table slates to get warped. However, some simple formulas can keep the table away from warping.

1. Instead of dropping balls roughly on the table, set them gently on it.
2. Don’t let anyone sit on the rails or kids stand on the table surface.
3. Keep other unnecessary, heavy things away from the slate.
4. Ensure no splitting of drinks or other food items on the slate.
5. Try keeping the table under a proper temperature and away from humidity & moisture.