Snooker Cue vs. Pool Cue: Key Differences Explained

Introduction

Although both snooker and pool are cue sports played on green cloth tables, their cues are not the same.
Each cue is designed for a specific purpose, with differences in size, weight, tip, and performance that can significantly affect your game.

Whether you are a beginner trying to choose the right cue or an experienced player looking to understand the details, this guide will explain the main differences between snooker cues and pool cues, and help you choose the right one for your playing style.

🪶 1. Length and Weight

Feature Snooker Cue Pool Cue
Length Usually around 57 inches Usually around 58–59 inches
Weight Lighter, between 17–19 oz Heavier, between 19–21 oz

Explanation:
Snooker cues are slightly shorter and lighter, allowing for greater precision on the smaller snooker balls.
Pool cues are heavier to generate more powerful shots and handle larger balls and thicker cloth.

🎯 2. Tip Size

Feature Snooker Cue Pool Cue
Tip Diameter Between 9 mm – 10.5 mm Between 12 mm – 13 mm
Cue Ball Size 52.5 mm (smaller) 57 mm (larger)

Explanation:
The smaller tip on a snooker cue allows for finer control and delicate spin on smaller balls.
Pool cues have larger tips to make contact with the bigger cue ball and provide more surface area for powerful strokes.

⚙️ 3. Shaft Taper and Construction

  • Snooker Cue:
    Uses a slower, gradual taper, which means the shaft stays thin longer.
    This provides better touch and feel when executing precision shots.

  • Pool Cue:
    Often has a pro taper, staying consistent in diameter for a longer section before widening.
    This allows for smoother stroke movement and consistent cue ball control in powerful pool shots.

🪵 4. Joint and Material

Feature Snooker Cue Pool Cue
Material Usually ash or maple Often maple or carbon fiber
Joint Position Often ¾ jointed (around 12–16 inches from the butt) Usually center-jointed (½)
Joint Type Brass, quick-release, or wood-to-wood Steel, Uni-Loc, or radial joints

Explanation:
Snooker cues are often ¾ jointed to maintain a smoother cue action and better balance.
Pool cues, however, are typically center-jointed, making them easier to transport and more standardized for power play.

⚖️ 5. Cue Tip Material and Shape

  • Snooker Cue:
    Uses softer leather tips, allowing for subtle cue ball control and delicate spin.

  • Pool Cue:
    Uses medium or hard tips to handle powerful breaks and high-speed impacts.

Result:
Snooker cues emphasize precision and touch, while pool cues prioritize force and stability.

🎨 6. Appearance and Design

Feature Snooker Cue Pool Cue
Design Simple, elegant, often with four-point splices More colorful, with graphic overlays and logos
Butt Diameter Slimmer Thicker
Grip Area Smooth, often no wrap May include Irish linen or leather wrap

Snooker cues have a traditional look, while pool cues often appear flashier and more customizable.

💡 7. Playing Style and Purpose

Aspect Snooker Cue Pool Cue
Game Type Precision, control, finesse Power, spin, break shots
Table Size 12 ft (large) 7–9 ft (smaller)
Cue Ball Contact Gentle touch Strong impact

Snooker cues are built for accuracy, while pool cues are made for versatility and speed.

🧠 8. Can You Use a Snooker Cue for Pool (or Vice Versa)?

Technically, yes—but it’s not ideal.

  • Using a snooker cue for pool makes it harder to control the larger cue ball and perform break shots.

  • Using a pool cue for snooker reduces accuracy on the smaller snooker balls.

If you play both games frequently, consider owning one cue for each to maintain the best performance.

🏁 Conclusion

The difference between a snooker cue and a pool cue lies in their purpose and precision.
A snooker cue offers delicate touch and finesse, while a pool cue provides power and durability.

When choosing your cue, think about:

  • The game type you play most

  • Your style of play (control vs. power)

  • The cue ball and table size

🎱 In short:

  • Snooker = precision and control.

  • Pool = power and versatility.