Top 10 Pool Table Brands: Which Are Worth Buying Used?
Not all pool tables are created equal, and not all brands hold their value when bought used. Here's our honest ranking of the top 10 brands, based on build quality, resale value, and how well they play after years of use.
1. Tier 1: Buy With Confidence
Brunswick is the gold standard; they've been making tables since 1845. A used Gold Crown or Centurion plays as well as new and holds value better than almost any other brand. Olhausen is the largest American manufacturer and known for exceptional build quality and customization. Diamond is the tournament standard; their Pro-Am tables are used in every major professional event. Used Diamonds are rare and command premium prices.
2. Tier 2: Excellent Value Used
Connelly builds tables in Tucson, AZ with high-quality North American hardwoods. Great value on the used market because they're less well-known than Brunswick. Peter Vitalie (now Helmstetter) made premium tables in the 90s–2000s that are now available used at great prices. A.E. Schmidt is a St. Louis manufacturer known for solid construction and classic designs. All three brands play excellent and can be found for 50–70% off new prices.
3. Tier 3: Good Budget Options
Valley (now Valley-Dynamo) is famous for coin-operated bar tables. Their residential models are well-built and widely available used. Great for garage game rooms and casual players. Gandy made affordable quality tables through the 2000s. AMF Playmaster tables are everywhere on the used market; decent quality for the price, though rails and cushions may need replacement sooner.
4. Brands to Avoid Used
Be cautious with: any brand selling under $1,000 new (likely MDF, not slate), generic imports with no brand name visible, tables from big-box retailers (Walmart, Amazon basics), and any table where the seller can't tell you if it's slate or MDF. If you can't verify the brand, have a professional inspect before buying.
5. Our Recommendation
For the best used value, look for Brunswick, Olhausen, or Connelly in the 8ft size. These brands are widely available in SoCal, parts and felt are standard, and a professional restore brings them to like-new condition for $2,000–$4,000 all-in. Tell us the brand you want and we'll source it across our network.
Need help? We're here.
Whether you're buying, moving, or restoring, we handle it all across SoCal.