Size matters. At least for air hockey, it does. There is not a one size fits all table because not every human is the same size or age. To make sure everyone can have lots of fun playing the game, air hockey tables come in a variety of sizes. Which size you play largely depends on your skill level, whether you are at home, at the arcade, or if you play professionally. To find out about the different sizes and who those sizes are for, just continue to read our article.
Table Sizes
Mini or Tabletop
Mini air hockey tables are largely intended for children or for those people who just want to have a little fun with their children. The size for this version of air hockey ranges from about 2 to 3 feet long and 1 to 2 feet wide. The tabletop model’s dimensions are small enough so everyone can reach the puck with ease as well as defend their goal. Mini air hockey tables rarely use an air blower as they are closer to toys than anything else. You will commonly find this version used on the tops of kitchen tables or even to keep kids entertained while traveling (see our reviews of the best cheap/affordable air hockey tables for more).
Small Tables
When you do not have a lot of room in your apartment or home, this is the version you should spend your money on (see How Much Do Air Hockey Tables Cost). The smaller versions of air hockey tables are commonly 3 to 5 ft. in length and 2 to 3-foot width making them a perfect addition to a crowded basement or small apartment. What this size does for you is to help you or your older children learn the basics of air hockey. You and your family can develop your skills and get ready for the bigger tables found at arcades or in your friends’ homes. This size is best for children or young adults around 10 to 18 and up.
Related: Best Pool Table for Small Space
Mid-Sized Table
There is such a thing as too large or too small of a hockey table. This model isn’t as large as the commercial version commonly found in arcades, but it is plenty large to get a solid gaming experience in the comfort of your home (see Best Air Hockey Tables for Home). Most of these tables are approximately 5’ to 6’ long and 3 – 4’ wide. It is just the right size to continue developing your air hockey skills as long as you leave enough space around the game to move freely. The age group for this average table would be around 12 to 20+. These are the most common tables you’ll find in people’s homes as they offer just the right amount of functionality, cost savings, and fun.
Commercial Tables
You have probably seen commercial air hockey tables sitting there on one of your visits to the local arcade, bowling alley, or pool hall. These tables are made for everyone to enjoy playing except little children. When you get this big, player size does matter. The arcade versions range between 4 to 6 feet wide and 6 to 8 feet long. They may cost you 25 to 50 cents or even $1 to play, but you can have a lot of fun with your friends at these tables. It is possible to buy an arcade table for your home use if you have space. These tables need a good 2 to 3 feet of room around them and regular cleaning of the playing surface to play properly.
Regulation Size
This is an adult’s air hockey table and you need to be tall to play on it. That is if you want to reach the puck and make some key shots against your opponent. Small won’t cut it here nor will standing on a stool. You need to have the reach to play on this 8 by 6-foot air hockey table. If you have an open basement or a large enough rec room, you can fit this table in your home. Usually, these tables are found in those establishments open to the public, like taverns, hotels, and other similar facilities. Many regard these as the standard air hockey table size for most uses. When you get good at playing on all these different sizes of air hockey tables, you may be ready for the next option.
Professional Models
The good news is that your time playing air hockey will not be wasted if you feel confident enough to take the next and last step in air hockey playing. Hitting the professional leagues or playing in competitions or tournaments requires a lot of skill. Also, you must be used to playing on tables that are 8 feet long and 6 feet wide. This is the only size of air hockey table you will find at this level. In addition, there are a lot of rules regulating what the table looks like, what features it can have, and so on. If you think you are good, then you need to move up to the big leagues to see how good you really are.
Conclusion
Air hockey tables are made for people of all ages. You do not have to start at the smallest one to learn how to play. There is no air hockey table dimensions standard that will help you improve your game. It just takes a lot of practice. The best thing to do is check out the different sized tables and see which ones fit you, your family, and your home best. There are hours of fun waiting for you if you do.
