Air hockey is a popular tabletop game that is fun for all ages. It involves sliding a puck across a smooth table surface with the goal of getting it into the opponent’s goal. To get the most enjoyment out of air hockey, having a quality table is essential.
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What to Look for in an Air Hockey Table
There are several key factors that determine how good an air hockey table is:
- Surface Material – Quality tables have a smooth surface, usually made of plastic laminate, melamine, or acrylic. This allows the puck to glide effortlessly across the table.
- Blower Motor – A powerful motor circulates air through small holes in the table surface to levitate the puck. Look for a motor of at least 1/4 horsepower.
- Table Size – Regulation size is 7 ft x 3.5 ft. However, models as small as 3 ft x 2 ft are available for home use.
- Leg Levelers – Adjustable leg levelers help ensure the table is perfectly balanced.
- Score Keepers – Manual or electronic scoreboards allow you to keep track of the score.
- Paddles and Pucks – Solidly constructed paddles with comfortable handles grip the puck well. Pucks made of a dense plastic material perform the best.
High-End Air Hockey Tables
If you want the very best in air hockey table quality and aren’t concerned about budget, these high-end models deliver exceptional performance and durability:
| Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Standard Games GSSII | $7,000 | 7 ft tournament size, 1/3 HP blower motor, wooden cabinet, electronic scorer |
| American Heritage Monarch Supreme | $5,000 | 7 ft size, 1/4 HP blower, leg levelers, electronic scoreboard |
| Harvard Deluxe | $3,500 | 7 ft table, aluminum frame, automatic scorer, side ball return |
These premiere air hockey tables are used in arcades and competitions, but they also make a great investment for the home. The well-constructed frame, strong motor, and smooth playing surface create unmatched gameplay.
Mid-Range Air Hockey Tables
For most households and game rooms, a mid-range table in the $500-$1500 range offers plenty of value:
| Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Atomic Blazer | $800 | 7 ft table, 110V motor, Abacus scorer, leg levelers |
| American Legend Charger | $600 | 6 ft table, 1/8 HP motor, electronic scoreboard |
| Hathaway Sharpshooter | $500 | 6 ft table, manual scoring, 90-day warranty |
These mid-priced models retain the fun and smooth gameplay of premium tables thanks to their strong motors and laminated playing surfaces. Conveniences like electronic scoring, leg levelers, and larger table sizes enhance the experience.
Budget Air Hockey Tables Under $200
If you just want a casual air hockey table for the occasional game night or for kids to play, these affordable tables deliver good basic performance:
| Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Harvil Striker | $130 | 3 ft table, 52″ height, paddle storage |
| MD Sports | $185 | 5 ft table, 110V motor, abacus scorer |
| Triumph Lumen-X | $150 | 4 ft table, blue LED lights, 90-day warranty |
While these inexpensive models have a shorter lifespan and lack the power of pricier tables, they offer a surprisingly fun experience right out of the box. The small size makes them easy to set up in game rooms, dorms, or kids’ bedrooms.
Shopping Considerations
Keep the following tips in mind when shopping for an air hockey table:
- Measure the space where you plan to put the table. Make sure to leave clearance on all sides for players to move around.
- Bigger is better when it comes to motor power and table size, especially for competitive play.
- Try out the table before purchasing if possible to assess the slider quality.
- Look for models with warranties of at least 90 days to protect your investment.
- Assembly can be tricky, so choose a table that comes mostly put together if you want easier setup.
- Add-ons like abacus scorers, cabinet-style legs, and electronic scoreboards boost the gameplay experience.
Top Air Hockey Table Brands
These air hockey table companies are known for excellent quality and performance:
- Harvard Sports – The inventors of air hockey offer top-of-the-line professional tables.
- Gold Standard Games – Arcade-quality tables focused on competitive tournament play.
- American Heritage – A wide selection of premium tables for enthusiasts and amateurs.
- Atomic – Known for affordable mid-range tables perfect for recreation rooms.
- Harvil – Budget-friendly tables great for family fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size air hockey table should I get?
Most home tables are 6 to 7 feet long. Minimum size for serious play is 6 feet. Kids and small game rooms can accommodate 3 to 4 foot tables.
How much does an air hockey table cost?
Prices range from under $200 for small basic tables to over $5,000 for top-of-the-line tournament models. Expect to spend $500-$1500 for a good quality mid-size home table.
Do air hockey tables really float the puck?
Yes, the puck glides just over the table on a cushion of air thanks to small holes and an electric motor that propels the air. This virtually frictionless surface enables fast gameplay.
How hard is it to assemble an air hockey table?
Basic models designed for home use can usually be assembled in under 30 minutes. Larger or more complex tables may take a few hours and require two people to maneuver all the pieces into place.
How long do air hockey tables last?
With proper maintenance like cleaning and replacing worn paddles, a quality table should provide 5-10 years of regular gameplay before needing replacement.
Conclusion
From arcade-level professional models to compact tables for kids, air hockey offers fast-paced excitement for players of all ages. Be sure to choose a table with smooth surface quality, adequate size, and durable construction. Brands like Harvard, Gold Standard, American Heritage, Atomic, and Harvil are known for making excellent air hockey tables across a range of price points. With a quality table and some competitive spirit, the air hockey fun can last for years of enjoyment.