Kevin LaBarre, salesperson and Game Table Department Buyer at Pelican Sports Center in New Jersey has one quality he looks for first when searching for his perfect table. “When looking for an air hockey table, the consumer should be primarily concerned with who is going to be using it,” he says. Smaller and beginner players will have different needs than adults and professionals. To find the perfect table for your family and skillset, we researched the best air hockey tables available considering each table’s size, features, and price. Based on these factors, we chose the MD Sports Air Powered Hockey Table as our favorite pick. The 84-inch table has a large scratch-resistant playing space, is easy to build, and includes fun sound effects for added entertainment value. Here, the best air hockey tables. Though it’s on the bigger side for a home air hockey table, users say this pick from MD Sports was incredibly easy to build for even one person (though keep in mind it takes two to lift and flip it). The playing table boasts a scratch-resistant surface, perfect for rough play. Thanks to a 120V-certified motor, the airflow stays consistent and makes for a smooth game with no interruptions. A large, digital LED screen lets players and viewers easily keep tabs on scores, plus fun sound effects keep all engaged throughout the game. Adding to the durability of this pick are molded corner caps, reinforced aprons, leg levelers, end-leg panels, and sturdy legs built to last. Two pucks and two pushers or strikers are included in this set so you are ready to play immediately. We love the airflow and the light and sound effects that add to the gaming experience. Some did note, however, that the table can be a bit loud when in use, so be sure to keep this in a game room or updated basement where the sound won’t be an issue. Price at time of publish: $989 The surface is perfect for kids but also plenty big for adults. We also like that it has corners that light up whenever someone scores a goal. The puck also lights up as well, but be sure to pick up a few more in case this one gets lost. The simple design of this compact air hockey table features manual sliding scorekeepers and goal boxes. It comes with two strikers and two pucks, which glide across the surface, thanks to a 100-volt fan motor. There’s also a handy puck-return slot on each side. Price at time of publish: $75 A large motor fan blows ample air onto the pitch, while LED rail lighting provides cascading effects during your game. Because of the multi-player aspect and innovative lighting features, this air hockey table is the one to get if you tend to host bigger parties often. Price at time of publish: $1,092 This option is conveniently compact and lightweight. What’s more, non-marking rubber pads on the feet prevent scratches on your table. Tabletop air hockey tables are a great choice for those looking to save space, without a dedicated game room. This portable option stores easily upright in a nearby closet at just under 11 pounds. You definitely won’t get the normal surface area for playing with this pick, but the storing and space-saving elements are definitely worth it. Price at time of publish: $52 Price at time of publish: $679 Other notable features include independent leg levelers, an automatic puck-return system, a digital scoreboard, and a 100-volt air motor. This mid-sized air hockey table is great for adults and kids alike. Be sure to recruit a friend when setting up this table because assembly proves very difficult with just one set of hands. Price at time of publish: $680 The two-person design has hidden leg levelers to ensure an even playing field, plus a digital LED scoring system. Not only that but flashing lights and sound effects help create an authentic arcade experience right at home. This option feels incredibly sturdy, despite the affordable price tag, but may take a bit of extra work to set up. Price at time of publish: $206 This stately hair hockey table is crafted from steel, cast metal, and oak veneer and is available in your choice of a pine or gray-wash stone finish. Additionally, it comes with adjustable levelers to ensure an even playing surface. Price at time of publish: $1,999 This air hockey table comes with two strikers, two pucks, and a carrying bag. We appreciate the reasonable price tag, and to make you feel even more confident, Puck Calix backs your purchase with a lifetime warranty. Price at time of publish: $250 It’s a good idea to carefully measure (and re-measure) your space before you buy one to make sure you have not only enough room to fit the unit, but also space for each player to move around with ease. “Air hockey tables are constructed to accommodate different styles and intensities of play,” says Brad MacIntosh, President and CEO of billiards and game store F.G. Bradley’s in Canada. “Also keep in mind that as players develop their skills and as the kids grow older, it is possible that they can outgrow basic or toy-style air hockey tables,” he continues. Thus, you may have to update your air hockey table’s size and features as your family grows.
Features
If you want a really premium table for your game room, look for features like automatic scoreboards or changeable surfaces that transform into other games, such as a ping-pong table. You can also find air hockey tables with sound effects and reactive LED lights that illuminate when you score or hit the edges with a puck. Some lighted models can be played in the dark too. Scoring systems also vary from table to table. “Electronic scoring systems make playing at home more like playing in an arcade. Look for scorers that use infrared sensors in the goal to sense the puck dropping into the goal; they are more reliable than mechanical puck sensors,” MacIntosh shares. “Look for electric score units that plugin rather than taking batteries. Some take batteries but also come with an adapter. This will save you money on replacement batteries,” he continues. This makes for more playtime without fussing about batteries. Some features offer more control than others. “Some tables have rounded corners, which will allow for more control near the player’s own goal. Some feature corners closer to 90 degrees which makes for a more fast-paced game because the puck will bounce back to the player who shot the puck. Again, all about the style of play the consumer likes,” says Kevin LaBarre, salesperson and Game Table Department Buyer at Pelican Sports Center in New Jersey. The amount of control needed will vary per player.
Airflow
Another important component of an air hockey table is the airflow. You want something that offers a strong and consistent airflow across the entire surface, as this will ensure the pucks can glide and that the game is fair for both sides. Look for models with a 100-volt fan motor or an otherwise high-quality airflow system. “The motor that powers an air hockey table should be a high output UL approved motor that will provide smooth consistent airflow while running quietly,” according to MacIntosh. Finding a consistent airflow is key for ease of playing and running quietly is a bonus.
Price
Small air hockey tables and tabletop models can be found for under $100, though larger versions with lots of extras and features can go for well over $1,000. If you want something that meets regulation sizing standards, you’re probably looking at $800 or more. Decide how much you’re willing to invest based on your budget, personal preferences, and how much you think you’ll use it. Different prices will often mean different materials. “As far as price is concerned, the biggest differential consumers will see is the actual construction of the table itself; whether that be MDF or a plastic composite,” LaBarre shares. With different materials come different qualities. “the composite will hold up much longer and is better able to take a beating if you have people who play more aggressively,” he continues. Accessories like pucks are always included and will not affect the price, but not all pucks are created equally. “Each table will include pucks and handheld pushers. Some are more ergonomically designed for the hand, others feature the traditional single post. Either way, those are all included in the purchase and won’t affect the purchaser price,” according to LaBarre.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a professional copywriter in the ecommerce space. She has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019, where she covers home improvement, interior decor, and recreational goods. For this article, she spent substantial time researching the different types of hockey tables, reviewed crucial features, pored over user reviews, and carefully considered dozens of options before making her final selections. Additional reporting was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce and The Spruce Crafts, covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, crafts, and the holidays. Expert advice was provided by Brad MacIntosh, President and CEO of billiards and game store F.G. Bradley’s in Canada, and Kevin LaBarre, salesperson and Game table Department Buyer at Pelican Sports Center in New Jersey.
