The pool table
Every part of a pool table, named. Tap a number to see what it is.
- Glossary: Rail →
- Glossary: Rail →
- Glossary: Rail →
- Glossary: Cushion →
- Glossary: Pocket →
- Glossary: Pocket →
- Glossary: Diamonds →
- Glossary: Head string →
- Glossary: Kitchen →
- Glossary: Head spot →
- Glossary: Foot string →
- Glossary: Foot spot →
- Glossary: Long string →
Side view
Key numbers
These are the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) specifications for tournament tables. Home tables are often a bit smaller, but the balls and pockets are usually close to these.
Playing surface (9 ft)
254 × 127 cm
Measured between the cushion noses.
Pocket mouth
11.4–11.75 cm
Corner pockets. Side pockets: 12.7–13.0 cm.
Ball
57.2 mm
2¼ in, 156–170 g.
Diamond spacing
31.75 cm
On a 9 ft table: ⅛ of the length.
Light
≥ 520 lux
Even across the whole table and rails.
Source: WPA Equipment Specifications; WPA Rules of Play, 2026, §2.1.