Buying your first pool cue or upgrading from a house cue can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
For a more in-depth look at every aspect of choosing your cue, visit our Cue Sports Buyers Guide.
1 Piece vs 3/4 Cue: What's the Difference?
The first decision is whether you want a 1 piece or 3/4 cue.
- 1 piece cues are a single solid length typically 57–58 inches. They offer the most consistent feel and are preferred by serious players who always play at the same venue.
- 3/4 cues break into two pieces at a joint, making them much easier to transport. They're ideal if you travel to different venues or want to carry your cue in a compact case.
What Weight Should Your Cue Be?
Most pool cues range from 17oz to 19oz. The right weight is largely personal preference, but here are some general guidelines:
- Lighter cues (17–17.75oz) — Easier to accelerate through the ball, good for players who rely on cue ball control and spin.
- Heavier cues (18–19oz) — More momentum through the shot, often preferred by players who play a more powerful, direct game.
If you're unsure, start around 17.75–18oz — it's the most common weight and suits most playing styles.
What Tip Size Do You Need?
Tip diameter depends on the game you play:
- English 8 ball pool — typically 9–10mm
- Snooker — typically 9–9.5mm
- American pool — typically 12–13mm
Which Brand Should You Choose?
At Spartancuesports, we stock cues from several trusted brands:
- Somdech — Excellent quality across all price points. The Basic range is great for beginners, while the Premium and Ultimate series offer handcrafted quality for more experienced players.
- Somchai — Beautifully crafted cues with intricate splice designs. The Master and Ultimate series are ideal for players who want a premium, distinctive cue.
- Spartan Cue Sports — Our own brand, built for players who want bold design and reliable performance. From the Classic and Signature to the Elite and Warrior.
- SLP — Precision-engineered cues available in 1 piece and 3/4 formats, offering consistent performance across a range of specifications.
- Demon Cues — High-impact cues built for players who want serious performance. The Ultimate range pushes quality and craftsmanship to the next level.
- Dragon Cues — Striking designs with genuine playing performance. Available in Silver, Gold, and Single Shaft Class 1 variants to suit different budgets and styles.
Don't Forget a Case
A good cue deserves good protection. We stock a wide range of pool cue cases including our premium HALO aluminium range, wood and PU leather options — in 1 piece and 3/4 formats, holding 1, 2 or 3 cues.
Ready to Find Your Cue?
Browse our full pool cue range or get in touch if you need advice — we're always happy to help you find the right cue for your game.
📖 Want to go deeper? Our Cue Sports Buyers Guide covers length, weight, tip size, joint types, shaft wood, balance, and more in full detail.
