Best Air Hockey Tables (Reviews)
Best High End
ESPN Air Hockey Table
Best Mid Range
EA Sports 60-Inch Air Hockey Table
Best Inexpensive
Rally and Roar Tabletop
Last Updated: 10th Mar, 2023
A trip down to the arcade hall isn't complete without a couple of rounds of Air Hockey. There is something mesmerizing about this classic game which keeps the kids and adults alike hooked for hours and hours!
No wonder you're looking to get one for your home.
Whether you're looking for an Air Hockey table to relive your youth or you're bowed down by the demands by your young one, we've got you covered.
There's a lot to consider when you're shopping for an Air hockey table. The three biggest factors seem to be quality, size, and price tag.
The good news is that we've spent several hours trying and testing several Air hockey tables to find the very best for you! No matter what your budget, there is a table for you.
After researching over a dozen of Air hockey tables and playing on seven of them, we conclude that the ESPN Air Hockey table offers the best value for most home users. The table is durably built, priced affordably, and is of an ideal size for home-usage.
Our Top Picks for Best Home Air Hockey Tables
- ESPN Air Hockey Table- Editor's Pick [Best for Most]
- Atomic Blazer 7’ Air Hockey Table - Runner-up
- EA Sports 60 Inch Air Powered Hockey Table - Budget Pick
- ESPN Sports Air Hockey Table (Steel Legs) - Best for Durability
- NHL Air Hockey Table with Table Tennis Top - Best Combo Table
- Rally and Roar Tabletop Air Hockey Table - Bargain Pick (Best for kids)
1. ESPN Air Hockey Table with Overhead Electronic Scorer
Editor's Pick [Best for Most]
- Size: 8 L x 4 W x 2.7 H Feet
- Playing area: 7 x 3.5 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: Electronic
- Weight: 236.72 pounds
ESPN Air Hockey Table, tops our list for a number of reasons. Firstly, it has all the attributes one would expect in a home game table - durable construction, excellent design, and affordable pricing. And secondly, it's large enough for immersive gameplay experience, just like the ones you find at an arcade.
This Air hockey table doesn't look like a typical table that you commonly find. Boasting carbon-fiber finished edges with sloped legs, this unit is sure to stand out in your home or game room. The overhead scorer runs across the table for easy visibility while the realistic arcade sounds with the timer add to the fun.
The table is powered by 120V UL certified air blower, which produces ample airflow for the pucks to smoothly glide. The top playing field it durably built with precise holes for even and consistent air coverage and no dead spots.
In total, the table measures 96 L x 48.50 W x 32 H inches and weighs a respectable 237 lbs. when fully assembled, which you will have to do yourself once it is delivered.
The table comes with all the accessories to get you started - four pucks, four pushers, and a premium table cover.
With a durable build quality, superior performance, and reasonable pricing, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better Air Hockey table than this.
What we liked
+ Beautiful and elegant design
+ Excellent and consistent airflow
+ Sturdy construction
+ Reasonable pricing
+ Free table cover
Watch out for
- Sharp inner edges. It's a good idea to cover them with a black color tape
2. Atomic Blazer 7’ Air Hockey Table with Electronic Scorer
Runner-up
- Size: 7 L x 4 W x 2.7 H Feet
- Playing area: 6.4 x 3.4 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: Electronic
- Weight: 155 pounds
Next on the list is a classic looking Atomic Blazer 7' Air Hockey Table. Featuring subtle black and white tones, this no-frills model looks simple yet elegant. The table measures 84" long 48" wide and 7" high.
The performance is where this table really shines. The sturdy frame, along with heavy-duty blower, results in superior performance. The blower pumps sufficient air for the pucks to smoothly glide on the surface while the rails are quite strong, resulting in true deflection. There are no questions or doubts about the quality of this unit. The customer reviews and feedback are also a testament to how well the table is built.
It comes with an electronic rail-integrated display to keep track of scores and arcade-like sound effects. The overhand rails reduce the puck bounce and limit the chances of puck flying out of the table. Additionally, it comes with leg levelers to keep the playing surface even. Included along are four black pushers and four 3" black pucks.
A couple things to watch out for. Few buyers complained about the table was damaged during shipping. In all cases, the buyers received a brand new replacement. On the downside, the table is extremely heavy. So if you intend to move the table often, it might not be the right choice.
This table has everything going its way, be it design, performance, or pricing. A no brainer for anyone who is looking for a quality table and doesn't mind shelling out some extra bucks.
What We liked
+ Premium Build Quality
+ Heavy-duty blower
+ Overhand rails reduce bounce-outs
+ Comes with four standard pucks and mallets
Watch out for
- The electronic scorer requires 4 AA batteries and does not run on the power supply
3. EA Sports 60 Inch Air Powered Hockey Table
Budget Pick
- Size: 5 x 2.7 W x 2.7 H Feet
- Playing area: 4.8 x 2.5 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: Overhead electronic scorer
- Weight: 50 pounds
For our budget pick, we selected the EA Sports 60 Inch Air Powered Hockey Table. Coming in at under $200, this table offers maximum bang for your bucks. The table is attractively designed with bold blue and red accents. Also, the table is smaller than the standard ones, which makes it even more ideal for space-constrained buyers.
Measuring in at 60-inch, this table allows for both recreational and intense gameplay while occupying minimal space. The frame is built out of 1/2'' thick MDF, which remains stable throughout while the UL certified motors produce even airflow for smooth gliding. That said, the airflow isn't the best, but again being a budget table, it's expected. But casual players and kids won't notice much of a difference. The legs are fitted with levelers to keep the playing surface perfectly even.
The most striking aspect of this table is the automatic overhead LED scorer, which makes it super easy to keep track of scores. The manufacturer also includes a manual scorer in case the automatic one fails. Two pushers and two pucks are included along with the table.
This is an ideal table for kids, while adults can join in the fun as well. However, you're compromising on the build quality and performance. Overall under $200, this is the best Air Hockey table you can get.
What we liked
+ Neither too small nor too big, making it ideal for most homes
+ Bang for the buck pricing
+ Great options for kids and families
+ Decent overall construction
+ Exceptional customer support
Watch out for
- There is no on/off switch
4. ESPN Sports Air Hockey Game Table (Steel Legs)
Best for durability
- Size: 7 L x 3.8 W x 2.7 H Feet
- Playing area: 6.3 x 3.4 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: Inlaid led scorer
- Weight: 238 pounds
If durability is your prime concern, the ESPN Sports Air Hockey Game Table with steel legs won't disappoint. This table does not come with any plastic or moving parts, and hence the chances of breakage or break-down are near zero.
What you get here is an all-steel frame with a sturdy MDF playfield. The holes on the tabletop are precisely drilled for even airflow, while the reinforced carbon fiber rails prevent pucks from flying off. The table also features a special wear-resistant laminate top to give you years of durability along with the solid ABS inner walls for excellent rebounding. Measuring in at 84" x 46" X 32" this table is medium-size, making it ideal for most homes.
The premium 120v UL certified motor provides maximum and even airflow throughout the surface, allowing the puck to slide smoothly. An electronic scorer is directly inlaid on the top rail that displays the score and time. Moreover, you also have the option to play arcade-style sound effects in the background to liven up the arena.
This Air hockey table is definitely priced at a premium, but if you take into account the build quality and performance, the pricing is vastly justified.
What we liked
+ Super strong and durable design
+ In-laid electronic scorer
+ Strong blower
+ Easy assembly
Watch out for
- The pushers are of average build quality and would need to be replaced sooner or later
5. NHL Power Play Air Powered Hockey Table with Table Tennis Top
Best Air Hockey Ping Pong Table Combo
- Size: 6.6 x 3.5 W x 2.6 H Feet
- Playing area: 6.3 x 3.2 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: In-rail automatic scorer
- Weight: 155 pounds
Why settle for only an Air Hockey table when you can also get a convertible ping pong table for the same price. Presenting the NHL Power Play Air Powered Hockey Table with Table Tennis Top.
This 2-in-1 combination game table is primarily an Air Hockey table, which can also be converted into a mid-size ping pong table. Two games also mean double the fun - isn't it?
The table measures 80 L x 43 W x 32 inches when fully assembled. It's ideal for players of all ages and skill levels. The hardened glazetek surface is both durable and ultra-smooth, while the CUL certified motor produces sufficient airflow for smooth gliding of the pucks. You don't need to worry about scorekeeping either. The in-rail electronic scorer keeps track of the score for you automatically. Add to that you have the option to turn on the arcade-style sound effects to further spice up the game.
The table also comes fitted with new power corners that add extra bounce and rebound while keeping you guessing where the puck might go.
Coming to the 3-piece table tennis conversion top, it's pretty decent for casual play. The ball bounce isn't the best, but something kids and family will surely don't mind. The top is easy to set up and store when not in use.
Out of the box, the table comes with all the accessories to get you going. You get two Pushers, two pucks, two table tennis paddles, two balls, and one net and post system.
For the price of a standard Air Hockey table, you get a combination table with decent build quality and playability — all in all, an excellent choice for anyone looking for a multi-game table.
What we liked
+ Two-in-one game table - play Air hockey and Ping Pong
+ Comes included with all the accessories
+ In-built electronic scorer and sound effects
+ Scratch-resistant top surface
+ Excellent support
Watch out for
- The table tennis top is not regulation size and may move from its position with a slight whack
6. Rally and Roar Tabletop Air Hockey Table
Bargain Pick (Tabletop)
- Size: 3.3 x 1.6 W x 1 H Feet
- Playing area: 3 x 1.3 Feet
- Blower: 120V UL certified motor
- Scorer: Electronic
- Weight: 14 pounds
Our last pick is the Rally and Roar Tabletop Air Hockey Table. Some of us neither have the space or the need of a full-size table. For such users, a tabletop variant that's portable and compact may seem like an ideal option.
While the table doesn't play like a professional one, but it's a fun alternative to play air hockey without giving up valuable floor space. The 40-inch tabletop design is easy to store in a closet, and it's sturdy MDF hardwood frame holds up to the rigors of kids playing non-stop for hours. The 100 cfm fan is UL-approved, and the entire table measures 40 x 8 x 20 inches. It even includes an ABS puck catcher that allows quick puck return.
Being a tabletop variant, you can set up the table anywhere, from your coffee table to your desk. This also means you can adjust the height accordingly.
The downside to the table is that the motor isn't strong, and construction is about average. But considering it's designed mainly for kids, it should not deter you from the purchase.
What we liked
+ Lightweight, compact and portable
+ Great for kids
+ Both electronic and manual scoring system
+ Little to no assembly
Watch out for
- Air output is average but good enough for kids to play
Air Hockey Table Buyer's Guide
All the tables that we've recommended above are the best in their segments, but if you would like to know how did we arrive to them, this buyer's guide is for you.
We've covered everything you need to know about Air Hockey tables. From how to spot a quality table to how much should you be spending on one, this guide answers all your queries.
Let's start with first understanding the science behind Air hockey tables.
How does an Air Hockey Table Work?
Did you know an Air Hockey table and a hovercraft more or less work on the same principle of levitation?
The Air Hockey table is designed in such a way that the surface offers the least resistance to the puck. The tabletop surface is exceptionally smooth and slick. But it's the air that's pumped through the symmetrical holes that vastly reduces the friction and causes the pucks to glide on the surface smoothly.
On the surface, you'll find several symmetrical holes. The air is pumped through the blower that's fitted below the table surface. This airflow causes the pucks to slightly levitate from the surface and move freely.
That said, the stronger the blower is, the better the pucks would glide.
A quality table will have a high power blower, which evenly distributes the airflow throughout the surface.
Intended Usage
What's your intended usage? Are you looking for an Air Hockey table only for the kids or adults would also be playing? How often would you be playing? Do you plan to play competitively?
Start by answering these questions because this will ultimately determine what type of table you should go for.
Commercial Purpose: If the table is going to be used at a bar, club, summer camp, or community hall, you should choose a commercial Air Hockey table. These tables are durably built with high-quality parts and can handle abuse very well. You can also get a coin-operated table and charge the players. Such tables usually cost upwards of $3000.
Mid-Grade tables: If you're looking for a decent Air Hockey table under a budget, you should opt for a mid-grade table. The playability and build quality isn't the same as the commercial ones but still good enough for casual and serious gameplay. They're an excellent choice for home game rooms.
You can get one of such tables under $1000.
Kids Air Hockey table: If kids are only going to play, you can opt for a mini air hockey table. They're available in tabletop as well as standing variants. Most of these tables come under $200. The build quality is decent, but the pucks would move slower. But it's something that kids won't mind.
Size
Air hockey tables come in various sizes from 3' mini variants to 8' full-size tables. The 8'+ tables are designed for tournaments and may not go well in the home setting due to space constraints.
For most home buyers, a 6' to 7' table is an ideal choice. You would also need 2 to 3 feet space on either side to play free without feeling congested.
Smaller tables less than 5' are ideal for kids and teens. On such tables, the scaled-down version of pucks and pushers are used to make the game even and interesting.
Price
Air hockey table prices can range from $100 to as high as $10k. Sub $200 variants are purely designed for kids to play. Between $400 to $800, you can get yourself a well-built table for home and casual use. Tables in this price range offer the best value for your money. The build quality is above-average, and the surface is pretty fast to enjoy a good game of Air hockey.
Above $1500, you can get a tournament-grade professional table. And if you’re looking for a commercial coin-operated table, be prepared to shell somewhere in between $4k to $8k.
The costlier models sport a better build quality and faster surface. Such tables are more of a one-time-investment and are sure to last you for a long time.
Based on your budget, choose a relevant model. If you think you might take the game seriously at any time in the future, it’s best to extend your budget and get a better quality one.
Design & Construction
What's the difference between a top-end 3k$+ table and a mid-grade 600$ table? Obviously, it would be quite a lot. In this section, let's analyze how does the quality of an Air Hockey table vary across the different price range.
Top Surface
The top, or the playing surface is the most crucial element of the table. The top surface must be smooth to allow the puck to glide easily. At the same time, the surface must be tough and should not easily wear out.
Over time with constant rubbing of the pushers against the surface can peel or roughen the top layer. As a result, the puck would not glide smoothly.
On higher quality tables, you find hard laminated tops made of plastic composite materials. They're very durable and lasts for a really long time. On mid-grade models, you get a wooden top with a thick coat of lacquer for a smooth finish.
Blower
The next factor you need to look for is the power and quality of the blower. The blower pumps the air through the tiny holes reducing the friction between the puck and the surface. A high power blower will allow for a faster game.
The blower should evenly distribute the air throughout the playing surface; otherwise there would be dead spots. Most tables come with a single blower. However, the top-end variants may be fitted with two or even three blowers.
On the cheaper models, you'll find a low-power blower with a smaller fan. Such blowers move less amount of air, and hence the puck would move slowly.
Rails
Do you know what a bank shot is? If not, let me explain. This is one of the most common shots in Air hockey. The player hits the pucks at one of the rails in such a way that it deflects to the opposite goal. All the complex shots in Air hockey use the rails.
So the quality of rails is equally essential. The rail must be strong and sturdy enough to deflect the puck accurately.
Also, the rails prevent pucks from flying off the table. On cheaper tables, this a common issue. If you hit aggressively, there are chances that puck may go off the table.
Frame
Air hockey is one of the fastest tabletop games. The game can get quite aggressive at times. Naturally, you'll want a sturdy frame to take all the load of the top as well as any external pressure. The cabinet of the table is generally made out of either MDF or particleboard. The thickness of the board decides the overall quality.
The more expensive models come with 1-inch thick sidewalls while in cheaper variants, you will find thinner walls.
Weight
Heavier Air Hockey tables would remain footed at all times and offer a stable playing platform. In contrast, lighter tables may wobble and move around during the game, which can be quite frustrating.
The weight of the table is a good indicator of the overall build quality of the table.
Pucks
Air hockey pucks in all sizes from small to large. However, the official rules mandate the puck to be exactly 3.25" in diameter with ¼" height and 40 to 45gm weight. The color of the puck is also limited to "Lexan-yellow", "Lexan-red" and Dynamo green.
Whereas, the smaller pucks are generally used on smaller tables (less than 7 ft). They usually measure 2'' to 3" in diameter.
High-end tables come with a regulation-sized puck, but that does not mean you can use the same pucks on cheaper tables. The force of the blower wouldn't be enough to lift heavier pucks. So, you're better off using a lighter puck on mid-grade or lower tables.
Pusher or Mallet
As per AHPA (The Air Hockey Players Association) guidelines, the pusher must weigh less than 6 oz, and its diameter must be less than 4-1/16".
However, the above rules apply for regulation-sized Air Hockey tables only. For casual and home usage, you should choose a puck based on the size of your table. Using a large puck on a small table would make the game less challenging. Similarly, using a smaller puck on a larger table would make it near impossible to defend.
For 7-foot or lower sized tables, generally, a 3" pusher is recommended.
Scorer
Some tables come with an electronic scorer which keeps track of the score automatically. On the cheaper models, you would not find a scorer, though.
Not a deal-breaker, but a good to have feature.
Sound Effects
Looking to recreate that nostalgic arcade-like environment? Look for tables with in-built sound effects. Such tables have the option to turn the music on or off when required.
Again not an essential element but good to have.
Popular Air Hockey Table Brands
Here are my top picks:
Valley-Dynamo: If you've been to any arcade, chances are you'd have played on a Valley-dynamo product. They're best known for their coin-operated commercial tables. No doubt, they make some of the best Air Hockey tables in the market, but it's primarily targeted for commercial settings. Most of the tables in their lineup sell for over 5000$.
Gold Standard: A relatively new entrant in the space, Gold Standard is known for its high-quality tables. The owner himself is a passionate Air Hockey player. Their tables are used in almost all official sanctioned tournaments. The Gold Standard tables start from $3500 and go as high as $7000.
Atomic: While the above two brands primarily manufacture commercial tables, Atomic mainly designs tables for home and recreational users. Their tables are priced affordably and are durably built.
ESPN/Hathway/EA Sports: These brands don't really manufacture the tables themselves, rather they procure it from China and white-label them. That said, the tables are sturdy and offer a good overall gameplay experience.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Air hockey tables require regular maintenance to ensure top performance and longevity. If not properly cared for, the surface would eventually slow down to a point where it would not be any fun to play.
The good thing is that cleaning and maintenance isn't that difficult.
The first thing you need to watch for is the dust accumulation on the holes. This is the single biggest factor contributing to the deterioration of the table. Clogged holes would result in uneven distribution, and the pucks would not float properly. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck out the loose debris. If that does not work, use a paperclip to clean the holes individually.
It's equally important that the top surface is spick and span. Use a damp cloth and wipe the surface weekly. For hard cleaning, you can also iso-propyl alcohol. Turn the table On when cleaning.
Contrary to popular advice, avoid using any form of wax or polish on the table. You may intentionally block the holes, leading the irreparable damage to the table.
Read our in-depth guide on how to clean and maintain your Air Hockey table here.
Summing Up the Guide
When choosing an Air Hockey table, the most important factor to look for is your requirements and budget. There is no point in buying an overly expensive table which you're not going to use often. Hopefully, the above guide has left you with a good idea as to what features to look for in an Air Hockey table.
If you've any further questions or you want me to review a particular Air Hockey table, you can reach out to me at [email protected].
