Do you know the difference between snooker balls and pool balls? Most people don’t realize there is a difference at all and try to play pool and snooker with the same balls and rules.
In this blog post, we will discuss the key differences between these two types of balls. We will also give you a brief history of each type of ball. So, if you’re curious about the differences between snooker balls and pool balls, keep reading!
Snooker Balls Vs Pool Balls: 10 Major Differences
Here are the ten major differences between snooker balls and pool balls:
1. Change In Size
The size of them is slightly larger than that of pool balls. The standard size is 22 millimeters in diameter, while the standard size of a pool ball is 21.25 millimeters in diameter.
This may not seem like a big difference, but it can make a big difference in the game!
2. Change In Weight
The weight is also slightly heavier than that of pool balls. The standard weight of a snooker ball is 170 grams, while the standard weight of a pool ball is 156 grams.
3. Change In Material
Snooker balls are made of ivory, while pool balls are usually made of synthetic material. This is one of the reasons snooker balls are larger and heavier than pool balls!
The change in material also affects the way the ball reacts when hit. Snooker balls tend to have more “give” than another type, which makes them more difficult to control.
4. Change In Bounce
Because of the difference in size and weight, snooker balls also have a different bounce than pool balls. Snooker balls tend to have a higher bounce than pool balls. This can make it more difficult to control the ball when you’re playing snooker!
5. Change In Number
There are also different numbers of targets used. A standard snooker set includes 22 balls, while a standard pool set includes only 15 balls.
This means that snooker is usually played with more than one color of the ball, while the pool is usually played with only one color of the ball.
6. Change In Pocket Size
The pockets in snooker tables are also larger than the pockets in pool tables. The standard size of a snooker pocket is six inches in diameter, while the standard size of a pool pocket is four and a half inches in diameter.
7. Change In Table Size
Because of the difference in pocket size, snooker tables are also larger than pool tables. The standard size of a snooker table is 12 feet by six feet, while the standard size of a pool table is nine feet by four and a half feet. However, the pool tables are relatively expensive since the material used is quite good in quality with a unique design.
This means that you need more space to play snooker than you do to play the pool!
8. Change In Cue Size
The cues used in snooker are also longer than the cues used in the pool. The standard length of a snooker cue is 57 inches, while the standard length of a pool cue is 48 inches.
9. Change In-Game Rules
Because of the differences in the size and number of balls, snooker and pool have different rules. Snooker is a game that originated in England, while the pool is a game that originated in the United States.
The two games are similar, but there are some key differences. For example, in snooker, you must hit the ball with the cue ball in order to pocket it. In a pool, you can hit the ball with any object ball in order to pocket it.
10. Change In Scoring
Finally, snooker and pool have different scoring systems. In snooker, you score points by pocketing the target in a specific order. The higher-numbered balls are worth more points than the lower-numbered balls.
In a pool, you score points by pocketing any ball into any pocket. The balls are all worth the same number of points, regardless of their number.
What Are The Differences In Rules For Both Game Types?
While snooker is typically played with 22 and pool is usually played with only 15, both games can be enjoyed with different numbers of balls. The game of snooker uses a cue stick to hit ivory balls, while pool sticks are used to hit balls that are often made from synthetic materials like resin.
The size difference between snooker balls and pool balls is also significant, with snooker balls being much larger. The weight of snooker balls is also slightly heavier than that of pool balls.
The standard weight of a snooker ball is 170 grams, while the standard weight of a pool ball is 156 grams. The change in material also affects the way the ball reacts when hit. Snooker balls tend to have more “give” than pool balls, which makes them more difficult to control. Because of the difference in size and weight, snooker balls also have a different bounce than pool balls. Snooker balls tend to have a higher bounce than pool balls. This can make it more difficult to control the ball when you’re playing snooker!
There are also different numbers of items including the cue. A standard snooker set includes 22 balls, while a standard pool set includes only 15 balls. This means that snooker is usually played with more than one color of the ball, while the pool is usually played with only one color of the ball.
It is important to understand the snooker rules if you are playing with the snooker balls and vice versa.
Can You Play Snooker On A Pool Ball Table?
Yes, you can play snooker on a pool table. However, because the pockets are smaller and the table is smaller, it can be more difficult to control the ball. It’s also important to note that the game of snooker requires a higher level of skill than the game of pool.
If you’re just starting out, it’s probably a good idea to stick to the pool until you’ve mastered the basics.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many differences between the two! These differences can make a big difference in the game. So if you’re looking to purchase a new set of snooker balls or pool balls, be sure to keep these differences in mind!
