A full-size snooker table has fixed dimensions defined by the official rules of the game. These measurements apply to professional competition and are used as the reference standard worldwide.
Smaller tables exist for practice and amateur play, but they are not considered regulation size.
Standard snooker table size
A regulation snooker table measures:
- Length: 12 feet (365.8 cm)
- Width: 6 feet (182.9 cm)
- Playing surface: 11 ft 8.5 in x 5 ft 10 in (356.9 cm x 177.8 cm)
The playing surface refers to the area inside the cushions, not the outer frame of the table.
Height of a snooker table
The height of a snooker table is measured from the floor to the top of the cushion.
- Height: 2 ft 10 in (86.4 cm) with a tolerance of +/- 0.5 in (13 mm)
This measurement ensures a consistent stance and cueing height across venues.
Cushion dimensions and positioning
Cushions are an integral part of the table’s geometry and affect how the balls rebound.
- Cushion nose height is set to ensure correct ball response
- The cushion profile is standardised for professional play
- Cushion angles are designed to produce predictable rebounds
Incorrect cushion height or profile can significantly alter table behaviour.
Pocket size and shape
Snooker pockets are deliberately smaller and more rounded than those used in pool.
- Corner pockets are narrower than middle pockets
- Pocket openings are measured at the cushion nose
- The curved jaws increase difficulty, particularly at pace
Exact pocket measurements can vary slightly depending on table manufacturer, but all must fall within permitted tolerances.
Baulk line and D
The baulk area is defined by fixed markings on the table.
- The baulk line is drawn 29 inches (73.7 cm) from the face of the baulk cushion
- The D has a radius of 11.5 inches (29.2 cm)
- The yellow, brown, and green spots sit on the baulk line
These markings are used for breaks, in-off shots, and ball placement following fouls.
Spot positions
Each coloured ball has a designated spot on the table.
- Yellow: right-hand side of the baulk line
- Green: left-hand side of the baulk line
- Brown: centre of the baulk line
- Blue: exact centre of the table
- Pink: positioned between the blue spot and the top cushion
- Black: 12.75 inches (32.4 cm) from the face of the top cushion
Spot positions are fixed to maintain consistent frame structure and scoring patterns.
Playing area versus room size
While the table itself has fixed dimensions, adequate space around the table is also required.
- Players must be able to cue comfortably from all angles
- Professional venues allow several feet of clearance on all sides
- Limited space can restrict shot selection and cueing technique
This is why full-size tables are rarely suitable for small rooms.
Smaller snooker tables
Non-standard table sizes are commonly used outside professional play.
- 10 ft, 8 ft, and 6 ft tables are popular for home use
- Pocket sizes are often adjusted proportionally
- These tables change the difficulty and flow of the game
Only the 12 ft x 6 ft table is used in professional competition.
Common misunderstandings
Any 12-foot table is a regulation snooker table
Only tables with correct playing surface, cushion, and pocket specifications meet regulation standards.
Pocket size is fixed and identical on all tables
Pockets must fall within tolerances, but small variations exist between manufacturers.
Smaller tables follow the same proportions exactly
Reduced-size tables often modify pocket geometry and cushion response.