In the world of pool cues, you can spend a lot of money.
There are collectors who will pay top dollar for a limited-edition cue, and there are professionals who need to have the best equipment to compete at their level.
But what if you just want to play around? What if you don’t need the best equipment and just want something that’ll get the job done?
Below, we list some of the cheapest pool cues available today.
These cues are all priced between $30-$100 as of the time of this writing, and they’re perfect for someone looking to just have some fun with friends or get started learning how to play.
Top 6 Cheapest Pool Cues – Our Picks!
- AB Earth 2-Piece 58″ Pool Cue/Pool Stick
- Viper Commercial Pool Cue
- Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues Billiard House Bar Pool Cue Sticks
- Viking Valhalla 100
- ISZY Billiards Short Pool Cue Stick
- TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood Billiard House Cue Sticks
1. AB Earth 2-Piece 58″ Pool Cue/Pool Stick
I’m a huge fan of pool, and I’ve been playing for years. I’ve owned a lot of different cues, and I’ve used a lot of different kinds of cues. But this one is by far my favorite cheapest pool cue.
I’m a big fan of playing pool, and I’ve been using the AB Earth 2-Piece 58″ Pool Cue/Pool Stick to play for the past few months.
Unique design
First off, it’s got a really nice design on the forearm of the cue. The grip has a unique shape that makes it very comfortable to hold, and it’s also got a great feel to it. This one is different than the AB Earth 2nd generation pool cue, which you can get for under $50.
It has a nice weight to it too, so you can really get some power behind your shots as well.
It has a variety of different colors and designs, so you can choose a cue that matches your style. The finish is really nice as well and doesn’t chip or flake off easily at all.
The handmade paint found in the butt has a nice texture to it, and there’s a lot of detail in the design as well. I love how this cue looks and feels and it is definitely an eye-catching cue that you’ll be proud to own.
Made from solid hardwood
Great quality for the price! I was really impressed with the quality of this pool cue when I first got it.
It’s made out of 100% Canadian maple wood, which is really nice because it doesn’t warp or bend easily as some other cheaper cues do.
It feels solid and well-constructed, and it’s really nice to hold.
The pool cue is lightweight but still has some weight behind it for good balance.
I love that this cue comes with a case as well because most cues don’t come with one and you have to buy them separately which can get expensive!
Great for beginners
The AB Earth Pool Cue is a really nice cue for beginners. It’s not expensive, but it’s also not a cheap piece of junk that will fall apart or break after one use.
Its performance is pretty good for the price and it’s got a nice feel to it.
The tip is a hard leather one, which can be good for breaking and shooting.
It’s also worth noting that the shaft is a little bit thicker than some other cues. So if you’re being annoyed by it, you have the option to shave it down.
It’s also very easy to use, so even if you’re new to playing pool this is still a great cue for you!
Conclusion
The AB Earth 2-Piece 58″ Pool Cue/Pool Stick is a great cue for beginners.
It’s really affordable and it still has good quality and performance for its price.
The cue is durable and has a great feel to it when you’re playing, which makes it easy to use even if you’ve never played pool before!
Pros
- Comfortable grip
- Great design
- Has a great performance
Cons
- The shaft is a bit thicker than the others
2. Viper Commercial Pool Cue
I’ve been a pool player for years, but I’ve never used a Viper Pool Cue before.
I was excited to try it out since I’ve heard so many people rave about the quality of Viper’s cues.
When the cue arrived at my house, I was immediately impressed by how beautifully it was packaged. It came in straight out of the box, and I could tell right away that it was a high-quality cue.
Reliable and dependable
The first thing I noticed was the weight: It wasn’t too heavy or too light; instead, it was just right! I also liked how smooth the cue felt in my hand.
When I started playing with it, I realized that this is one of the best cheap pool cues on the market today.
The shaft seems solid and I like that it has a conical taper.
Beginners will like the conical taper since it has a nice, soft feel to it and is easier to control.
The tip is soft leather and it gave me the power behind my shots without losing control.
But there’s one thing that I disliked about its tip. It is wobbly and not durable.
I noticed that my tip was already starting to wear out after just a few weeks of using this cue.
I would recommend that you get a new tip if you’re planning to use your pool cue every day.
Solid one-piece construction
Unlike the AB Earth pool cue, the Viper Commercial Pool Cue has a solid 1-piece construction.
The shaft has no finishing at all but it’s smooth and has nice a feel to it. The stick felt very solid in my hand and I had no problems with the balance.
The weight of this pool cue is also perfect for me. It’s not too heavy nor too light.
Classic look
This pool cue reminds me of my Lucasi Custom Sneaky Pete pool cue, which is one of the best pool cues that I’ve ever used. It has that “underdog” look to it that makes me want to win.
It’s not a fancy cue but it definitely has the right looks to get you motivated.
I’m sure many pool players will like this cue because of its simple yet timeless design.
Conclusion
I really like this cue. It’s a simple and classic-looking pool stick that will definitely fit any player who wants to win.
The price is right too! I highly recommend this cue for beginners.
Pros
- Classic design
- Pretty sturdy and well made
Cons
- The tip seems to fall off easily
3. Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues Billiard House Bar Pool Cue Sticks
The Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues Billiard House Bar Pool Cue Sticks is an interesting set of cues that could be used at home or in a billiard hall.
They are made using good-quality materials and they have the right density, weight, and flexibility for better gameplay.
They are designed with a special coating that helps prevent them from getting worn out easily, which is one thing that you should always look for in your pool cues when buying them.
Great design
The Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues Billiard House Bar Pool Cue Sticks comes with 5 different cues, each with its own color so you can tell them apart easily.
The decals on the butt look really good and add an extra layer of class and style to the cues.
The cues also come with a wrap that is surprisingly effective.
It feels good in the hand, and it won’t slip off while you’re playing.
They also have a 2-piece construction for easy carrying and storage.
You can easily break it down into two pieces so you can store it in a small place, or take it with you when traveling.
However, the butt joint is wood-to-wood, which can take you some time to unscrew and tighten it back up again.
Super affordable
These house cues are really affordable and fun to use.
They are perfect for anyone who wants to add a bit of style and class to their game but doesn’t want to spend a lot of money on it.
They shoot smoothly and have enough power to get the job done.
The Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues is also a great choice for bar and pool hall owners because they are very affordable and do not break easily.
Conclusion
The Han’s Delta Set of 5 Pool Cues is a great choice for anyone who wants to get into the game and start enjoying their time playing.
They are affordable and durable, which means that they will last you a long time.
Pros
- Great design
- Performance is great for the price
Cons
- Wood-to-wood butt joint
4. Viking Valhalla 100
I was recently asked to review the Viking Valhalla 100 pool cue and share my thoughts with you.
I’m very excited about this opportunity because I’ve always been a fan of Viking cues. They’re an excellent choice for any pool player who wants to take their game up a notch—and I’m certainly no exception!
They offer a variety of entry-level cues as well as advanced pool cues.
I’ve had my eye on this particular cue for quite some time now, but I’ve been holding off on buying it because I wanted to make sure it was right for me.
It’s not the cheapest, after all. But after using it for over a month now, I can honestly say that it’s worth every penny.
Superior performance
The Viking Valhalla 100 pool cue is an entry-level cue that offers superior performance.
I used this pool cue for over a month, and it never let me down. I’ve played in many games with it and never felt like I didn’t have enough power or control to win the match.
The Valhalla 100 is made from solid maple, which makes it very durable and able to withstand high-impact hits.
Shots are true and solid and the cue feels great in my hands.
It’s easy to hold on to and doesn’t vibrate or get slippery when you hit the ball.
The joint is made from stainless steel, which makes it very durable and resistant to corrosion. It also makes the cue feel strong and sturdy when you’re shooting.
The vibrations I felt during my matches are very minimal.
The Viking Valhalla 100 pool cue also comes with a lifetime guarantee, so if anything happens to it, they’ll replace it free of charge.
Also, the 13mm leather tip came out rounded, which is great because it is easier to do cue-ball spin.
One thing that I really like about the Viking Valhalla 100 pool cue is that it has an adjustable weight bolt system, so you can change the balance of the cue depending on how fast you like to play.
Great looking cue
I adore the design of the Viking Valhalla 100. It has a distinct look that sets it apart from other cues. Mine is the blue one and it’s just beautiful.
It has a stylish design that makes it look like an expensive cue.
From the tip up to the butt, I can tell that Viking took their time in designing this cue. It’s the kind of cue that you’ll be proud to own and show off to people.
Conclusion
The Viking Valhalla 100 is the most expensive pool cue on this list. It’s an investment that you’ll be proud to make. With high-quality materials, a great design, and an amazing feel, this cue is going to last for years and years.
The only downside is the price tag. If you’re on a budget, then this may not be the best option for you.
Pros
- Easy to control
- Sleek design
- Adjustable weight bolt system
- A great option for intermediate players as well
Cons
- The tip may need to be replaced after a while
5. ISZY Billiards Short Pool Cue Stick
Next, we have the ISZY Billiards Short Pool Cue Stick – 17/19 Ounce 42″/48″ Inch. This cue is great for tight corners of your game room.
It’s not a full-length cue stick, but it’s short enough to fit into tight spaces and it can be used by your kids as well.
This is a very popular cue among beginners because of its price point, performance, and quality.
Great for kids and tight spaces
This is a great cue stick for beginners and kids. It’s not too long, so it won’t be difficult to handle, but it has enough length that you can hit those long shots with ease.
It’s made of solid maple and has a nice finish that looks good in any room.
The cue came out straight and has a nice balance in it. The tip is actually useful and it shots straight and true.
If you have a small room to play, this is a great cue for you. It’s very easy to maneuver around the table, and it’s made of solid maple which is sturdy enough to handle even some hard shots.
The price is good for what you get with this cue stick. It is a small but mighty pool cue!
Sleek design
The overlays on this pool cue are pretty and looked sleek. You can choose a color from brown white, brown black, and blue black combinations.
Its 2-piece construction is a plus, as it allows the cue to be more compact and easier to transport.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a pool cue that is easy to maneuver and can hit the cue ball straight and true, you should definitely consider this cue. It’s well-made and very affordable!
Pros
- By far the most useful shorty pool cue
- Solid shots
- A solid pool cue for kids
Cons
- The tip can be too hard for some players
6. TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood Billiard House Cue Sticks Pool Cue
If you’re looking for cheap house cues to get you started, then you can’t go wrong with the TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood Billiard House Cue Sticks Pool Cue.
Classic house pool cues
The TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood Billiard House Cue Sticks Pool Cue is a cheap house cue available on Amazon.
It’s not the best house cue ever, but it’s a great deal that will let you practice your game and have some fun playing with friends and family.
It’s a wrapless and very nice-looking cue, with a standard length of 58″ and weight for house cues.
It’s made of hardwood, which is always a good material choice for pool cues.
The cue is also straight as an arrow and it feels solid. I also like its balance which is one of my main concerns when shopping for a cue.
The tip is glue-on and it seems thinner than most pool cues. I recommend replacing it after some time.
Great for your own game room
The TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood House Pool Cue is great for your own game room. It’s a classic-looking cue that will teach you the basics of playing pool and billiards.
Its performance is decent and it’s easy to use. If you only care about getting cheap pool cues as much as possible, then this is the cue for you.
It’s a good bargain at its price point and it will definitely get you started playing.
Conclusion
The TGA Sports 58 Inch 19oz 2-Piece Hardwood House Pool Cue is really cheap and it’s great for beginners. It’s a decent option that will get you started playing pool. It’s very easy to use and it has decent performance.
Pros
- Really cheap pool cue
- Performance is decent given its price point
Cons
- The tip feels really cheap and it’s thin
What To Expect in This Price Range
While the cheapest pool cues may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, they can still be a great option for beginners or casual players. Here are some of the features you can expect to find in this price range:
1. Basic Materials
Cheap pool cues are often made from basic materials such as fiberglass or hardwood. While these materials may not have the same quality or durability as more expensive options, they can still provide a decent playing experience.
2. Limited Customization
In this price range, you may have limited options for customizing your cue. While some models may allow for minor adjustments, such as changing the weight or tip, you’re unlikely to find many cues that can be fully customized to your preferences.
3. Simple Designs
Cheap pool cues tend to have simple designs with minimal decorative elements. While some cues may have basic inlays or patterns, you’re unlikely to find elaborate designs or exotic woods in this price range.
4. High-Deflection Shaft
It’s totally fine for beginners to use high-deflection shafts. These are the same shafts that you can find on all house cues. It can teach you pretty much all the basics of playing pool or a billiard game.
5. Limited Warranty
Finally, it’s worth noting that cheap pool cues may have limited warranties or no warranty at all. While this may not be a dealbreaker for casual players, it’s something to consider if you’re looking for a cue that will last for years to come.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Pool Cues
When looking for the cheapest pool cues, it’s important to understand the factors that affect their cost. This section will cover some of the most significant factors to consider.
1. Brand Reputation
One of the most significant factors affecting the cost of pool cues is the reputation of the brand. Popular brands, especially those associated with professional players or high-end models, often come with a premium price tag. While these cues may be of excellent quality, it’s worth considering whether the brand name is worth the added expense.
But still, there are reliable brands that make cheap pool cues such as AB Earth, Viking, and Viper.
2. Materials Used
The materials used to make a pool cue can have a significant impact on its cost. For example, cues made from high-quality woods such as maple or ebony will generally be more expensive than those made from cheaper materials like fiberglass or plastic.
Additionally, cues made with exotic woods or intricate inlays may also come with a higher price tag.
3. Cue Weight and Balance
The weight and balance of a pool cue can also affect its cost. Cues that are carefully balanced and weighted to suit a player’s individual preferences will typically cost more than generic, one-size-fits-all models.
However, it’s worth noting that finding the right weight and balance for your playing style can significantly improve your game.
4. Tip Quality
The quality of the tip can also affect the cost of a pool cue. Cheaper cues may come with low-quality tips that wear down quickly or provide poor grip on the ball. High-end cues often feature top-quality tips that are designed to provide precise control and consistency in your shots.
5. Joint Types
The joint, or the point where the shaft and butt of the cue are connected, can also affect the cost of a pool cue. Cues with high-end joint systems, such as those with a quick-release mechanism, may cost more than those with simpler joint designs. However, a quality joint system can improve the feel and accuracy of your shots.
6. Decorative Elements
Pool cues with decorative elements, such as intricate inlays or custom designs, may come with a higher price tag. While these cues can be visually stunning, it’s worth considering whether the added expense is worth it if you’re primarily interested in functionality.
7. Customization Options
Finally, the degree of customization available for a pool cue can also affect its cost.
Custom cues that are made to your precise specifications can be quite expensive, while cues with more limited customization options may be more affordable.
It’s worth considering how important customization is to you when looking for a cheap pool cue
Tips for Maintaining Your Pool Cue
Taking care of your pool cue is essential to ensure that it lasts for a long time and performs well. Here are some tips for maintaining and repairing your cheap pool cue:
1. Clean your cue regularly
One of the easiest ways to keep your pool cue in good condition is to clean it regularly. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the cue after each use, and avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
2. Protect your cue from temperature changes
Extreme temperatures can cause the wood or other materials in your pool cue to expand or contract, leading to warping or other damage. To prevent this, store your cue in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
3. Storage
Properly storing your pool cue is crucial for its longevity and performance. To ensure this, it is recommended to use a cue case to protect it from damage during transportation and storage while also regulating temperature and humidity.
Additionally, avoid exposing your cue to extreme temperatures as sudden changes can cause warping or cracking. It is important to keep your cue dry as moisture can damage its finish and warp its materials, so store it in a dry place and wipe it down after use.
Store your cue in an upright position to prevent warping or bending and avoid stacking cues on top of each other to prevent pressure and damage.
4. Keep the cue tip in good condition
The tip of your pool cue is one of the most important parts for gameplay, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Trim the tip regularly to maintain its shape, and avoid using excessive force or hitting the cue ball off-center, which can cause the tip to flatten or become misshapen.
5. Address minor repairs promptly
If you notice any minor damage or wear on your pool cue, such as a loose or missing bumper, address it promptly to prevent further damage. You can often fix minor issues yourself using a cue repair kit or by taking it to a professional cue repair shop.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a cheap pool cue?
The average cost of a cheap pool cue can vary widely, depending on the brand, materials, and features. In general, you can expect to spend between $20 and $100 for a basic model. However, keep in mind that some cues maybe even cheaper or more expensive depending on the factors that affect their cost.
Can cheap pool cues still provide a good playing experience?
Yes, cheap pool cues can still provide a decent playing experience for beginners or casual players. While they may not have all the same features or durability as more expensive models, they can still be a good option for those on a budget.
How can I tell if a cheap pool cue is of good quality?
When shopping for a cheap pool cue, look for cues made from quality materials such as hardwood or fiberglass. Additionally, consider the weight and balance of the cue, as well as the quality of the tip. While you may not find all the same features as higher-end models, a cheap cue can still be a good choice if it meets your needs and feels comfortable to play with.
Should I invest in a more expensive pool cue?
Whether or not to invest in a more expensive pool cue depends on your personal preferences and playing style. If you’re a serious player who competes regularly or values customization options, a more expensive cue may be worth the investment. However, if you’re just starting out or playing casually, a cheap cue can still provide a good playing experience without breaking the bank.
What is the difference between a cheap and expensive pool cue?
The main difference between cheap and expensive pool cues lies in the quality of materials and construction. Expensive cues are crafted from high-end materials such as carbon fiber and exotic woods and feature intricate designs that require skilled craftsmanship.
Conversely, cheap cues are made from basic materials like maple or fiberglass and have simpler designs with less precise construction, which may affect their performance and durability.
While an expensive pool cue can provide superior precision, balance, and consistency, a cheap cue can still be effective for recreational play or beginners.
What weight pool cue should a beginner use?
As a beginner, it’s recommended to use a lighter-weight pool cue to start. A cue weighing between 18 and 20 ounces is a good choice for most beginners.
A lighter cue can help you develop proper technique and stroke mechanics, as it requires less force to move and helps you avoid using too much muscle. It can also help reduce fatigue and strain on your arm and shoulder during extended play sessions.
Once you’ve become comfortable with your stroke and technique, you can experiment with heavier cues to find the weight that feels most comfortable for you.
What are the best materials for cheap pool cues?
When it comes to cheap pool cues, there are a few commonly used materials, including maple and thin fiberglass. Maple is popular due to its affordability and durability, while fiberglass is lightweight and budget-friendly.