factors to consider when buying an air hockey table

Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Air Hockey Table

Considerations for buying an air hockey table

The clacking of the puck bouncing around the walls. The tension of eyes following it from end to end. The cheers of friends and family when cousin Paul finally lights the lamp on uncle Steve. Who doesn’t love air hockey?! Having an air hockey table in your home can create lasting memories for you and your family.

That said, shopping for an air hockey table is tough. After all, it's a commitment so you want to be sure the table is one of quality that will stand up to years of use.

We put together a guide of seven factors you should consider when purchasing an air hockey table so you don’t have to stress your decision-making and get to playing!

Factors to Consider When Shopping for an Air Hockey Table

It would be best to consider these seven factors when searching for an air hockey table for your game room:

1. Material Used

The table's material plays a critical role in how the surface feels and the tabletop’s durability. Air hockey tables are made from wood, wood with plastic laminate, or plastic.

When searching for an air hockey table, you'll want to keep in mind the material used to create the table's surface, laminate, and interior. You’ll want to opt for tables that have solid materials and construction as lightweight materials will wear out faster with consistent use.

Additionally, you'll want to opt for a table that uses eco-friendly and safe material for children to be around if you have kids in the house.

2. Durability

In deciding which air hockey table to buy, durability is going to be the biggest factor you’ll want to focus on. You don't want to buy a table for your game room only to be unable to play your favorite game.

Examine the table's materials and overall construction to ensure that it's long-lasting so that there are no headaches and just great times with you and your closest friends and family.

3. Surface

Air hockey tables used to have only one type of playing surface: smooth.

However, today you'll find air tables with different playing surfaces. Some tables have a textured playing surface, allowing air to move more freely. Additionally, you'll find some with interchangeable playing surfaces that allow you to switch from a smooth to a textured surface.

4. Size

It might seem obvious, but make sure you clearly understand the dimensions of your game room before installing an air hockey table. You want it to be a centerpiece, not a bottleneck when you’re entertaining. Check out the dimensions of each table and compare them with your game room's dimensions.

If you have a smaller room, you'll want to choose a table that folds, which allows you to adjust the table's size accordingly.

5. Accessories

Sometimes the bells and whistles are worth it! Tables with accessories make for a more beneficial investment overall.

Some tables come with side bumpers that increase the level of skill needed to play the game. Others come with tournament scoring, which lets you track scores and standings more easily. All of these help you to get the most out of your air hockey table.

If budget isn't an issue, look for air hockey tables with more accessories and features.

6. Price

Depending on how much you're willing to pay, you can find an air hockey table for any budget. Cost does not necessarily equal quality and there are plenty of great, affordable options.

Alternatively, if you're willing to spend a bit more, you can find an air hockey table that comes with more game options.

Also, keep in mind that tables that use electricity are more expensive than air hockey tables that use air-powered blowers.

7. Reviews

When shopping for an air hockey table, reading through reviews can save you both time and aggravation. Find out which tables other customers have fallen in love with and look into the ones that jump out to you as well. Check out the table's reviews on websites like Game Exchange to compare tables and their features.

Conclusion

It can be overwhelming when shopping for an air hockey table. But fret not, with this guide you will be having a fantastic time playing air hockey with your friends and family members with a table that fits your space and budget.

For quality air hockey tables in Denver, shop at Game Exchange. Our catalog features various coin-operated games, including air hockey tables. Shop now!