Updated December 1, 2025
You can't have a proper poker night without a table. Yes, we’ve all made do with whatever was available – kitchen tables, hotel nightstands, even bar tops at restaurants.
But that's never quite right. You get a real poker table, even just something basic with felt and cup holders, and your whole setup changes.
Suddenly, it actually feels like poker.
Ready to add a table to your man cave or poker room? This poker table buying guide covers everything you need to know when making that purchase.
Why Invest in a Poker Table?
The thing about getting a proper poker table is that it's not just furniture. Your crew will want to stick around for those marathon sessions when they're not squeezed around your dining table like sardines.
The felt, the rails, the cup holders... all that stuff creates a vibe that screams "this is a real card room."
Budget option or custom build doesn't matter. What matters is that your games feel more legit right away.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
Look, buying a poker table isn't rocket science, but you can't just wing it either.
- Start with the basics: are you hosting weekly, or is this more of a monthly thing?
- Space matters too - got a whole room for this, or are you moving furniture around every time?
- And be real about money. What can you spend without your partner giving you grief?
Your regular poker games determine what table makes sense. If you’re playing with the same five or six people every time, round or octagonal tables fit that perfectly.
Lots of these come with covers, too, so they double as standard furniture when you're not playing.
Table Size
Bigger games change the equation. Ovals are what you see in casinos, and they handle nine people without issue, sometimes ten if nobody minds the squeeze. Tournaments get tricky. You might need two tables, which means figuring out storage between games.
Understanding poker table sizes helps you pick the right fit. Tables range from 72 inches to 104 inches. Here's what matters: grab a tape measure and check your room dimensions.
Then think about who shows up, not who says they'll come. Too many people buy massive tables that turn their game rooms into a sardine can.
Table Felt Options
There are many felt options available for that poker table purchase. Lower-end options may feature traditional green, but pricier tables may include other colours such as blue, red, and black.
Those seeking a custom option may even include graphics or lettering enmeshed in the felt for a unique look.
Key considerations are quality and smoothness. These aspects ensure that the felt works well and that cards glide across the table effortlessly when dealing.
The felt should stand up to regular use with plenty of poker chips value for riffling and even the occasional drink spill. A high-quality felt will last long and not create lint, helping a table owner from having to re-felt often.
Table Rail and Durability
Another crucial consideration is the rail around the table. Is there enough padding, and is the rail sturdy? Look for a soft but sturdy rail with not too much give.
Make sure the vinyl or leather is of high-quality. Most tables come with built-in cup holders because nobody wants a beer spill killing the action.
Durability's huge, too. Give the table a good shake before you buy. You need it to handle years of players leaning on it, chips getting slammed down, maybe the occasional fist pound when someone rivers a gutshot.
The table legs had better be rock solid. The last thing you need is the whole thing collapsing mid-hand when a friend realises they’re on the wrong end of a poker bluff.
Budgeting for a Poker Table
Budget depends on your needs. A poker tabletop runs $30 to $50, perfect for tight budgets. Traditional tables cost $160-$200 and are available at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. These should be functional but not top-of-the-line.
The best poker tables for most home games fall in the $250-$350 range. You get sturdier construction, LED lighting, and stainless steel cup holders without breaking the bank. ESPN-branded tables with these features run $270-$300.
Permanent game room setups? Solid wooden tables with features and chairs range from $1,500 to $5,000. These high-quality pieces add ambience to any room.
Folding and Portable Poker Tables
Tight on space? Foldable tables might be your answer. You're not leaving these out 24/7. Legs fold down, table folds in half, done. Perfect when someone texts at 7pm saying, "Game tonight?"
Most have Velcro straps, so they stay shut. Bonus: toss it in your trunk if you're heading to a buddy's place.
Price-wise, you'll find most in the $160-$200, though some fancy ones push $900 if you want to get crazy.
Best Poker Tables: Custom and Premium Options
For those looking for something really smart-looking, companies like BBO Poker Tables, Jack Game Room, and Gorilla Gaming offer exquisite options from felt colour to LED lighting.
Custom poker tables let you add all the bells and whistles you want. The price can get into the thousands, but a custom table makes for a fantastic piece of furniture. That could include charging stations at each seat, or custom felt printing with your room name and graphics.
Got money to burn and want that Vegas vibe at home? Custom tables are where it's at.
Your buddies will lose their minds when they see it, and they'll definitely be asking when the next game is.
2025 trends: Charging ports built into each seat (because everyone's phone dies mid-session), adjustable LED lighting, sustainable wood if you care about that, and even Bluetooth speakers.
Poker Table Tops for Small Spaces
Limited budget or space? Felt table tops transform dining tables into poker surfaces. They come in oval, circular, or octagonal shapes, with some featuring padded rails, cup holders, or chip slots.
Prices range from $30 for basic versions to under $100 for fancier board-style toppers with carrying cases. This solution is perfect for allocating more budget to the game itself.
Chairs and Accessories for Your Poker Room
A table may be necessary, but chairs are equally essential. The budget-conscious can purchase folding chairs or borrow from poker guests. This solution works for those with portable tables that they plan to store after the game.
For more comfort, consider office-style chairs. Many high-end tables come with matching cushioned chairs that adjust for height.
Rolling chairs make it comfortable to move around a table.
When considering chairs, think about your flooring. Regular games on carpet or wood can cause wear and tear. A nice rug can alleviate this problem as players shift and roll around the table.
How to Build Your Own Poker Table
Handy in a woodworking shop? Building your own poker table can be ideal and fun, but those with less carpentry experience may find this challenging, so make sure you have the tools and know-how.
Many sites offer building directions. Free plans from “This Old House” work for octagonal tables, while casino-style oval plans are available online.
Budget anywhere from a few hundred to thousands, depending on style and quality. A custom-built table shows pride in workmanship and boosts your ranking on the list of the greatest poker players of all time.
Final Thoughts
Whatever you end up buying, make sure you've thought through the stuff we covered:
- Felt quality matters.
- Shape matters.
- Your budget and how much space you've got. It all matters.
Get the right table and your home games will be better for years:
- Cheap foldable?
- Premium custom job?
- Build it yourself?
It doesn't matter which route you take. A decent table pays for itself in comfort alone, plus your friends will remember these nights.
Ready to upgrade your poker nights?
Explore the best poker tables today and transform your home game experience!
Poker Table FAQ
How much does a poker table cost?
- Table toppers run $30-$50, which is perfect if you're on a tight budget or want to test things out.
- Basic standalone tables (oval, circular, octagonal) cost $160-$200.
- Mid-range tables with LED lighting and cup holders go for $250-$350.
- Premium custom tables start at $1,500 and can reach $5,000 depending on features.
What is the best poker table for home games?
An oval table in the $250-$350 range works well for regular games with 6-8 players. If you only host occasionally or have limited space, a foldable table or table topper is more practical.
Where can I buy a poker table?
Amazon, Walmart, and Target carry a variety of tables at different price points. For higher-end options, check furniture retailers or specialised gaming accessory websites.
Can I build my own poker table?
Building your own table is possible with basic carpentry skills. You'll find plenty of free plans online. Make sure to research material costs beforehand and pick a design that matches your skill level.
What size poker table do I need?
Circular or octagonal tables accommodate 5-6 players. For 7-9 players, consider oval tables between 72 and 84 inches. A poker tournament with 10 players needs tables in the 90-104 inch range.
