Budget Poker Table
When it comes to poker accessories, a poker table to play on at home is a must for any poker enthusiast. In this article, I will take you through all of your poker table options, from portable inexpensive tabletop mats and folding tables to professional high-end choices. Whether you want an 8 or 10 person table, octagon, round, or oval, no matter your budget, I will help you find the perfect solution to your home game poker needs.
When choosing a poker table for your home poker or game room, you have 4 basic options at varying price points.
- Roll Up Poker Mats
Perfect for a sporadic casual game among close friends, especially where poker is a secondary part of the fun. Here is my favorite portable poker mat, found on Amazon. - Foldable Table Toppers
Folding poker tables are a great option if you are serious about poker but on a budget. These still look amazing and sit on top of any table, dining room, or otherwise. If you’ve ever played pub poker, this is what they almost always universally use. My favorite topper is the Gigantex Folding Table Top. - Collapsible Poker Tables
If you have either a dedicated space for poker or just room in your living room, collapsible poker tables with legs are the most popular option for home game hosts. These tables tuck conveniently away in the garage and can be brought out and set up very quickly. My favorite one is the Barrington Oval Poker Table. - Permanent Professional Poker Tables
For serious players who want to furnish a full-size poker room in their house, high-end permanent poker tables are the best choice. Check out this solid wood poker table (Click to see on Amazon), it comes with a cool dealer station.
Option #1: Roll Up Poker Table Mats
Poker mats are typically made of either cloth or rubber and are basically just a rolled up felt that is used as a table top cover. They usually come with a compact carrying case, ready to be stored or conveniently taken any location you choose. To use, you simply unroll them onto your dining table and voila, poker time.
Oval Poker Tables. Oval poker tables are the most common design and home models usually fold up for storage. Sizes Permanent home versions are often 92x44x30 (234x112x76). Foldable models are usually about 84x42x30 (213x107x76) but can be as small as around 73 inches long and 32 inches wide. Weight 54 to 85 pounds. After all BBO Poker Tables was the official supplier to the World Poker Tour in 2015, not bad for a company that only started in 2006. The table’s dimensions are 94 x 45 x 30 inches (poker table layout up to armrest) and 96 x 48 x 32 inches (dining table layout). The chairs are 39” tall and are also available to purchase separately.
Inexpensive Poker Table
#1: GSE Games 70″ x 35″ Portable Table Top
Recreate Las Vegas in your den or bar with a poker table. Having a dedicated gaming table adds an extra touch of class to your fun casino evening. These often feature slots for storing chips and a special fabric surface that makes it easier for cards to glide to the players as you deal. Giantex Portable Rubber Non-Slip Poker Table. For players who need portability and flexibility in their.
This mat is my favorite mainly due to the fact that it comes in several colors and is big enough to hold up to 7 or 8 players comfortably. I really like the classy look and prefer just having one ring around the outside without the fancy bells and whistles designs that many models come from. It also comes with a nice carrying case.
#2: Gameland Oval Portable Poker Table Mat
If you are looking for a mat that has a bit fancier look then this one is for you. It has a nice “felt” design and slots to place Texas Hold’em community cards. This mat also comes with a handy carrying case.
#3: Da Vinci Rectangle 2-Sided Poker & Blackjack Mat
If you also like to play Blackjack then you will love this mat. Just flip it over and you have your own personal Blackjack table. However, while this is one of the least expensive mats you can find it is also one has durability issues.
Option #2: Folding Poker Table Toppers
Folding poker table tops usually look like traditional card tables in that they typically have raised arm rests and cup holders. However, unlike regular poker tables, there are no legs on this next step up from poker mats. I recommend these to anyone who is on a budget but still wants to offer their playing buddies the look of a real poker casino table. Poker table toppers typically come in either octagon or oval shaped.
#1: Gigantex Oval Folding Poker Table Top
This attractive design is as about as good as it gets for folding poker tables. It is big enough to seat 8 people, has
#2: Homcom Octagon Foldable Poker Table Top
If you play in a small poker game or want a topper for a round table, this model fits the bill perfectly. It is heavy duty and very durable. I really like the plastic trays with cup holders that help mitigate spills. If you have a game with 6 players or less, this is a great option.
#3: Fat Cat Tri-Fold Poker Table Top
If you prefer a poker table topper that has a defined padded rail you will like the Fat Cat tri-fold table. It is also much larger than most other table toppers and will comfortably seat 8 or 9 players.
Option #3: Folding Poker Tables (With Legs)
This is the most common table that most folks purchase. The construction is generally similar to that of folding poker table toppers, they just have legs added on. However, there is a wide range in construction and sturdiness across a wide spectrum of price points. My goal is to help you sort through the madness and provide recommendations across a broad array of choices.
#1: Barrington Oval Folding Poker Table
This table has it all: Durable construction, compact storage, padded rails, and a really attractive design. It’s like having a professional permanent poker table without the high expense.
#2: Texas Holdem Folding Speed Cloth Poker Table
I just can’t get over how nice this poker table looks. If you have a small home game, this is the perfect table to impress your buddies. A huge bonus is the stainless cup holders and the speed cloth (spill-proof).
The materials are casino quality and you can expect this item to last for a long time. It’s basically a permanent quality table that happens to have folding legs.
#3: Polar Aurora Oval Folding Poker Table
If you are on a budget but don’t like poker mats, then the Polar Aurora is a great option. It has a plain look to it but is highly functional with its solid metal construction.
It seats 8 players (6 very comfortably), is made with solid wood, and has steel legs. There are 8 cup holders and padded armrests as well. I really like this foldable table and it would likely fill the needs of most everyone.
Option #4: High-Quality Permanent Poker Tables
If you have a dedicated game room and want your poker table ready to go anytime, you have a wide array of options. I realize that a large purchase like this will not typically be made on a whim. You will likely spend some time doing some research before you decide on which type and mode you ultimately choose. To that end, I will offer a few suggestions at several price points to help you on your way to a decision.
#1: Solid Wood Poker Table With Dealer Station
If you want your home game to have a professional setup, this is the best table for the money. It has a casino-style design with a dealer station and toke box (for tips). It also comes with speed cloth and stainless cup holders. Make sure you have a lot of room because this thing is huge!
#2: Elite Poker Table With Dining Top
If you are looking for a higher-end model then this elite poker table offers a solid oak construction with a black finish. It doubles as a dining room tables as well.
This is a 10
#3: Ultimate Poker Table (Folding)
With this
#4: Luxury Poker Table (With Chairs)
With this Permanent Luxury Poker Table with Chairs. With thistable, you get the best of both wor
It has both traditional and contemporary design elements and would fit in almost any decor. It actually would make a great conference room table as you can choose either dining or lounge chairs.
Other Considerations
Before purchasing the poker table of your choice, make sure that it fits your needs as closely as possible. Here are a 5 things to consider.
- Does the table fit well in the space allocated?
There’s no sense in buying a giant luxury poker table if you can’t even get it through the front door of your 600 square foot condo. You are much better off just using your current dining room table and a poker table mat. However, if you live in a 9000 square foot mansion with a million dollars of antique furniture, rolling out a rubber casino in front of your friends just won’t do. - Will the table match the expectations of your poker friends?
This ties into my first point. If “the guys” or “gals” are expecting a regular poker night that lasts for years, you will want to invest in a solution that matches that expectation. Even so, you still don’t have to break the bank when creating your poker atmosphere for your buddies. Any perceived “cheapness” you’ve put into the equipment will soon be forgotten if you break out the favorite beer or snack foods of your poker compatriots. - Is the table big enough to accommodate your regular players?
Check the number of seats a poker table will accommodate, before purchasing. For most small games, this isn’t typically an issue, since it’s usually just 4-6 friends. Almost every table I have recommended will fit the bill for this scenario. Just remember that for bigger events, you will need to comfortably fit everyone. If you jam Frances up against a wall, stuck between a counter and a trash can, don’t expect to see her next week. Remember, no one puts baby in a corner. (sorry bad movie reference, couldn’t resist) - Does your table of choice fit into your budget?
If you have set aside $200 to buy all of your poker night needs and then splurge on a $180 poker table as your first purchase, $20 doesn’t leave a whole lot of room to buy everything else you need. While the table is important, so is poker chips and playing cards. - Do you plan to play when on vacation?
If you have a family poker night, then you will want to strongly consider a foldable poker table that travels well. Or, just buy two tables; a permanent one your main home table and folding or roll-up one for vacations.
About Poker Table Felt
While the design of the table is the most important factor in choosing the right poker table, the type of felt that covers the surface is also something to take into account. Basically, there are two predominant options available for poker table felt, standard felt and speed cloth.
- Standard Felt (Made of Micro Suede or Velveteen)
This is the standard option on the vast majority of poker tables, especially those on the lower end of the price spectrum. The surface has a roughness to it and sometimes it is difficult to get the cards to slide where you want them to while dealing. This is the cheapest surface and should be fine for the vast majority of players. However, some folks like a slight upgrade to a more “professional” surface. - Speed Cloth (Typically made of polyester)
Discerning players and many professional poker players prefer their playing surface to be a bit faster than standard felt can satisfy. Enter speed cloth. Made of a very smooth type of polyester, you will have no problem getting the cards to slide from one end of the table to another while dealing. In fact, players not used to the surface may complain that the cards are sliding off the table too much. Most poker tables do not come standard with speed cloth, it is typically an upgrade that some companies offer if you want to pay for the option. A few of the tables in this guide do offer speed cloth as an option, be sure to check before you purchase.
Personally, I prefer speed cloth, but only for higher end tables. I would much rather adjust to a fast surface than a slow one. Even so, most folding or portable poker tables are compact enough that it doesn’t really matter one way or the other.
Honestly, the type of “felt” on your poker table is a really tiny concern for the vast majority of players out there. Unless you are a professional or play for thousands of dollars every poker night, no one is likely ever to care about what surface your table as (assuming it isn’t soiled, torn and nasty).
Additional Poker Accessories & Essentials
Now that you have tackled the biggest ticket item for your home game, you may need to buy a few more essentials to get ready for your home game. Speaking of which, I wrote an informative article on the 10 keys to hosting the perfect poker night, be sure to check it out. I cover everything you need to do to be a great poker host.
Also, get some really nice playing cards and good quality poker chips, they can make or break a poker night. My personal favorite is Copag, what’s yours? Here are a few more considerations for you to think about:
- Decorating your poker room
- Finding players
- Providing appropriate food & for your guests
- Choosing a game format
- Security (for you high rollers out there)
Summary
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If you are looking for a short-term solution but want to upgrade at some point, I suggest going with the cheapest poker mat possible and then spending some time deciding what permanent setup you want. Or, if you just want a safe bet that will last you many years, just go with what I feel is the safest bet, the folding 8-person Polar Aurora. It is a fine table that is a perfect balance between portability and permanent options. I love the way it looks and how it folds in half for easy storage.
From cheap, portable, rolled up cloth mats, to high-end luxury professional models, I hope to have given you a good review of the best poker table options there are out there and an idea of how much each type costs. If you found this article informative, be sure to browse the resources section of our site, and let us know if there is a subject you would like addressed in the comments below. Also, feel free to browse our site to learn more about poker strategy. Thanks for stopping by!
Every good home bar needs great entertainment and what better way to enjoy a cocktail than with friends playing Texas Hold’em? And for that you need a poker table, so sit back and take a read of the best poker tables for your home bar.
Contents
How to choose a poker table
When you’re shopping for your home bar poker table there are some tips to bear in mind to make sure you get the right table for you. One of the first considerations is the amount of space you have available in your home bar and the number of players you are likely to assemble. Poker tables come in an array of sizes from cozy four-seaters through to substantial 10-seaters.
Up next there are the installation options. By this we mean do you want a table that can be folded away easily or one which is more of a permanent feature.
Thirdly we have the all-important cloth finish. As well as coming in an array of colors with green, red, blue and black being most popular, there is also the suited variety which, as the name suggests, bears an attractive pattern of repeated card suits. To top this off we also have an option for a speed cloth. This is treated with Teflon making it liquid repellant – great for cleaning up drink spills, and also means that the dealer can easily slide cards to any player no matter where they are sitting.
Giantex foldable 8-player poker table
The Giantex is a well-rounded entry-level contender for best poker table with strong steel legs and a supportive steel frame. This is a portable table that you can fold away in between games. We love the padded armrest that incorporates sizable cup holders for beers or cocktail glass. This cushioned rim is water resistant as you might expect but there are models on the market which aren’t, so it is worth making double sure. In our opinion, the armrests are a vital part of any good poker table, comfort and practicality are essential when playing. The table top itself comprises solid wood and is level with no bumps or dips.
Custom Poker Tables
The felt is labelled as speed cloth and waterproof. It’s padded too and has a professional feel to it.
Size-wise, when it’s extended in use the table measures 73” x 32” x 30”. Once folded it collapses to a manageable 36.5” x 32” x 7”. While being sturdy the Giantex is also lightweight enough at 54 lbs to move by one person.
In use this table may be better suited for six rather than eight people if you want to give everyone plenty of arm space. It’s definitely a robust piece and we think that it would survive daily use including collapsing it down after each use. Its hinges are strong, and the blocks underneath are satisfyingly solid for longevity. The felt is good quality but it’s not as fast as other speed cloths we’ve trialed.
Giantex Folding Play Poker Table w/Cup Holder, for Texas Casino Leisure Game Room, Foldable Blackjack Table (8 Player (Poker Table))- ♣️ Cup holder & Chip Tray: The table is equipped with 8 cup holders on the edge of top, which provide players convenience to put handy staff and avoid unexpected pouring out of your refreshment, and a chip tray in the middle as well, making the surface of the table more tide and clean.
- ♣️ Folding Design: The design of the poker table is out of your better using experience. For instance, the table is foldable, which allows you to take it with you to party or friends’ house easily. In addition, the edge of poker table is tenderly padded, offering comfortable support for hand or body reclining.
- ♣️ 8 Player Poker Table: The table is designed to fit up to 8 players to play poker together, which is practicable for family use, offering you and your family great leisure time. Table Size: 73'X32'X30', Folding Size: 36.5'X32'X7'. Except for family night, the poker table is also perfect for other occasions like bachelor’s night and team building.
- ♣️ Professional Surface: The surface of the poker table is printed with professional blackjack poker layout and rules, featuring card placement areas and making it easier for green hands. Besides, the table top is cover by polyester and PVC, guaranteeing you a easy-cleaning table.
- ♣️ Sturdy Structure: The poker table is framed by solid metal, with close connection with the table top, enabling the table to bear high pressure. Furthermore, the top of this poker table is made from MDF board, which can also provide strong support for heavy chips or body press as well.
Lancaster 10 Player Casino Style Folding Poker Game Table
The Lancaster is a table with a special place in our hearts. Falling neatly in between a budget table and a higher end purchase, this is ‘the one with the lights’. It has to be said that the array of blue LEDs which encircle the playing area are this table’s defining point. They add an extra dimension to the experience and are quite fun especially if you play in low light.
This poker table seats ten people although eight is best to give everyone decent space. The rail is well cushioned so you can lean forwards for the all-important bluffing Mexican stand-off. The metal cup holders are a little disappointing in that they can be a bit loose and not up to the quality we expect., but will still hold a good whisky glass. However the quality of the cloth makes up for it; it plays fast and the dealer can easily slide cards to the far ends with the minimum of fuss.
The Lancaster is a fold-up table which makes it useful if space is tight. When it’s in place the well-constructed table is solid and is great value for money.
Lancaster 10 Player Folding Felt Casino Poker Game Table, Cup Holders and Lights- Casino-style poker game table fits up to 10 people
- Inlaid LED lights all around
- Made of high grade felt to ensure high quality game and sport
- Rail is cushioned for comfort
- Features 10 cup holders for your favorite beverages
BBO Poker Rockwell Poker Table for 10 Players
When nothing but the best will do, the Rockwell Poker table will meet and surpass your needs. This top quality, premium poker table is at home equally in a dining room as it is in your home bar although – be warned – you’ll need a substantial space to accommodate such an amazing piece. Starting with the solid frame fashioned from oak with its fabulous mahogany gloss finish, the Rockwell is every bit the style icon. A five-inch-wide racetrack or armrest is upholstered in comfortable foam overlaid with faux leather ensuring you never tire as time passes you by playing into the small hours. The track sports ten four-inch stainless steel cup holders which are of great quality.
With the Rockwell you get a twofer! Yes, this poker table doubles up as a rather prestigious dining table. As a dining table it seats 10 people with beautiful mahogany hardwood dining chairs. For poker you can have up to eight players in action. Swapping between surfaces is a breeze so you can go from dining table to dining tables in no time.
The impressive classical clawfoot design adds to the elegance of this amazing table, it truly is a talking point that will wow your guests. Did we mention they were made from solid oak?
The Rockwell is available with a range of playing surfaces. Whether you prefer traditional felt or the upgraded liquid-resistant suited speed cloth the choice is yours. They are upholstered right here in the States – California to be precise – so you can be assured that the finish will be top notch. After all BBO Poker Tables was the official supplier to the World Poker Tour in 2015, not bad for a company that only started in 2006.
The table’s dimensions are 94 x 45 x 30 inches (poker table layout up to armrest) and 96 x 48 x 32 inches (dining table layout). The chairs are 39” tall and are also available to purchase separately.