Billiards vs Pool: Key Differences and Fun Facts

Cue sports boast a long and rich history. Traditional games date back to at least the 15th century while online pool have been a mainstay of PC gaming for over a quarter of a century. Before playing cue sports, though, it is worth understanding the key differences between them. Aside from helping you decide which is right for you, it could also support the development of your strategy.

The Evolution of Cue Sports

The history of cue sports is quite fascinating. While it is known that King Louis XI of France owned the first indoor billiards table, the game of billiards actually stems from outdoor stick-and-ball lawn games including jeu de mail and bowls.

Billiards sports became particularly popular in the 18th century, particularly across France and Britain. Pool, as we know it today, may find its roots in billiards but was developed in the United States. Its popularity grew massively in the 19th century and was played worldwide throughout the 20th century, with many famous Pool players emerging from the sport. Snooker was started in India in 1875 while the World Snooker Championship is nearly a century old.

Cue sports, primarily snooker and pool, have made their way to the digital arena courtesy of video games starting with Snooker ‘83. Since the birth of online games, pool has become the most popular choice by far due to its quick play and simplicity. Millions of people play online daily.

Billiards vs. Pool: Spot the Difference

At a glance billiards and pool may look similar. They are both usually played by two players and use a cue and some balls. However, billiards is played with just three balls (white, yellow, and red) with the former two standing out as the striking balls. Pool uses a cue ball and several striking balls. The balls are smaller 2.25” compared to 2.43” for billiards.

Meanwhile, pool focuses on potting balls whilst billiards is about initiating contact between the three balls by playing around the table. Once you start playing, the contrasts are clear.

What Sets Apart Billiards and Pool Tables?

The obvious difference between a billiards table and a pool table is that the former does not have any pockets. While they are both commonly played on 7ft and 8ft tables, billiards tournaments tend to be played on a 9ft table. Meanwhile, it is not uncommon for 4ft, 5ft, and 6ft pool tables to be used for personal use.

In today’s world, pool is a far more popular sport and most casual cue sports players are likely to have played at 8-ball or 9-ball at some stage either at home, in a bar, in an arcade, or via a digital version. Billiards is far more obscure, although the professional billiards scene continues to hold tournaments around the globe.

Unraveling the Rules: Pool vs. Billiards

The rules of pool and billiards are very different, but you will soon get to understand them by playing the games.

Billiards

The rules of billiards are that each player has a designated cue ball. The idea is to cannon your cue ball into the opponents, which should then hit into the red. Depending on the variant, you may have to do this via one cushion or three cushion touches.

8-Ball

The most commonly played variant of pool is 8-ball. In this game, there are 15 colored balls and a cue ball. Each player has to pot their seven balls before moving onto the black 8 ball, which is used by both players. The game is won by potting the 8, although, doing this before your other seven balls have been potted results in a loss. There are also rules regarding fouls (hitting the wrong ball, potting the cue ball, etc.) to learn.

9-Ball

In 9-ball, both players are tasked with clearing balls 1 through 9 in order. However, there are exceptions like cannons and the break. The winner is the person who pots the 9, even if the other person has potted 1-9. So, in contrast to 8-ball, both players try to pot the same balls, which naturally impacts the strategy and tactics of safety shots. Generally, 9-ball is quicker than 8-ball.

Billiards, Pool, or Snooker: Which Is For You?

All three of the major cue sports focus on several common skills, meaning most players can learn all three. This has been highlighted many times over the years in the professional ranks with snooker players making the switch to pool for the Mosconi Cup. However, the distinct differences mean most people have a favorite.

If you love the psychology of online pool, you may also find that billiards appeals due to the strategic mind games that you’ll play. However, if you like this but also enjoy potting balls, snooker is probably the answer. Then again, if the 12ft table is too daunting, pool and billiards will be better.

Top Tips for Billiards and Pool Beginners

When starting out with pool or billiards, it’s important to familiarize yourself with playing shots and getting a feel for the cue. Some of the top tips for beginners include;

• Develop your stance - the ability to stand and bend comfortably, create a bridge with your non-dominant hand, and get a clear sight will make a difference.
• Know your angles. The game is all about calculating how balls react when they contact each other. While you still need to hit the shot correctly with aim and power, working out the desired angle is an essential first step.
• Gain a loose grip and practice your aim. Knowing how the cue ball acts depending on where you strike it will make a huge difference. You can test this out with online pool games like Summer Pool.
• Learn the different bridge techniques including the open bridge, closed bridge, elevated bridge, rail bridge, and mechanical bridge. Choosing the right option depending on how the balls lie can work wonders for your game.
• Practice breaking as this is arguably the most important shot, especially for 8-ball and 9-ball where balls can develop to help you win in one visit.

There is also the option to hire coaches or get expert advice. Ultimately, the more you play, the better you will become - especially when you enjoy it.

DISCLAIMER: The games on this website are using PLAY (fake) money. No payouts will be awarded, there are no "winnings", as all games represented by 247 Games LLC are free to play. Play strictly for fun.