5 Best Dart Scoreboard
(Electronic, Dry Erase & Chalk)
Last Updated: 10th Mar, 2023
You're an avid dart player, but tired of keeping track of points. Not a big fan of math? Maybe you have too many players to keep track of.
Good news! There are plenty of optimal dart scoreboards out there to amplify your game. Electronic scorekeeping, digital displays, included games, and computer opponents are all the options you can find in a dart scorer. But which is the right darts scorekeeper for you?
The choices here vary quite a bit, so we put together our favorite picks from the variety of options that are available. Check out our list to speed up your dart games and make them a whole lot more fun!
Our Top Picks for The Best Darts Scoreboard
- Arachnid Touch Pad Dart Scorer- Editor’s Choice
- Viper ProScore Digital - Best Electronic Darts Scorer
- Illumiscore Light Up Scorer - Best Features
- Viper Dry Erase Scoreboard - Best Dry Erase Scorer
- Scoremaster Chalk Scoreboard - Best Chalk Scorer
1. Arachnid Touch Pad Dart Scorer
Our number one pick is Arachnid's digital scorer. This scorer comes with a stylish, clean, and intuitive interface. Player scores and all buttons are labeled clearly. When you need to add points, you just press the corresponding spot on the dartboard display. It matches exactly up with a traditional pro bristle board layout.
The board can be used with up to 8 players at once, and comes a host of features. You'll have access to 24 games with 132 options to choose from. A handy voice prompt lets you know when the next player is up. You can add handicaps for players, giving pros and newbies a chance to compete together. There is even an option for solo play to keep on top of your daily practice.
The scorer has the option to run on batteries or the included AC adapter, whichever is more convenient for you. Setup is easy, and the scorer can be mounted nearby to your dartboard for quick access.
The instructions act as a good reference, but it still takes some time to get used to using the scorer. For the most, it is very intuitive, but if you do make a mistake, there is no way to go back. If you are careless, you can lose out on a lot of games this way. We also found that the computer player in solo is a little too good, even on the lower difficulties.
In summary, this a great scorer that looks cool and gets the job done. It's really convenient to have for active dart players, and a host of game modes brings a ton of value to the system. We recommend this for anyone who likes to play darts frequently.
Top Features:
- Calculates scores of up to 8 players
- Supports 24 game types including all 01 games, Count up, high-five, etc
- Can be battery-powered or use main supply
- Voice commands, rankings, and handicapping option
Conclusion: If you're looking for the very best electronic darts scorer, the Arachnid Touch Pad Dart Scorer won't disappoint. Coming from the stable of Arachnid, one of the most popular electronic dart board manufacturers, there is no compromise on the quality or the features.
2. Viper ProScore Digital
The next best digital scorer you can find is the Viper ProScore. This scorer actually manages to pack in even more games with a total of 40, and more than 600 options to select. Up to 8 players can be added per game. Other options like handicaps and solo play are available as well. The whole system is fairly small at 5 L x 1.5 W x 10.25 H inches. The included mounting system lets you put it on the wall any way needed, and won't take up too much room. You'll need 3 AA batteries to operate this scorer, which are not included.
A nice feature is the auto-off mode, in case you walk away without turning it off. That feature alone is sure to save you a few trips to the store for batteries. The installation process can be done in just 4 steps. Special screws are included if you want to mount this directly to a dartboard cabinet. You'll need a drill bit to complete the process, however.
The keypad on the scorer works well, but is not as stylish or fun as our number one pick. The LED display also feels a bit old fashion. This is still a great scorer overall and achieves a lot of the function of our first choice, but at around half the cost. If you want a few more game modes, the same cool features, and a lower price tag, then this will be your best bet for a dart game scorer.
Top Features:
- Support 40 games and up to 8 players at a time
- Custom handicap option to give weak players head start
- Option to play against the computer
- Battery operated (3 AA batteries)
Conclusion: The Viper ProScore Digital Dart Scorer costs half the price of our top pick - Arachnid Touch Pad Dart Scorer, yet offer near similar features. Of course, it does not come with a fancy large LED screen or segment press to input score. If anyone is looking for a simple and reasonably priced digital scoreboard, this is definitely worth considering.
3. Illumiscore Light Up Scorer
This next pick begins our choices for the more classic takes on dart scorers. The Illumiscore comes with a modern twist, however. It comes with a light-up scoreboard that doesn't require any chalk or dry erase markers. All you need is the two "grease" pencils, made of wax, to start keeping track of points. When you need to reset the scored, you can just wipe away with any dry cloth. This scorer can be used with 4 AA batteries or an AC power supply. A great option for on the go or at home.
The Viper line has produced a great number of quality dart related products, and this Illumiscore makes another great addition. You can buy with confidence here, as this company has a long history of designing dart equipment.
When you are ready to play, the board can be mounted directly to the wall. This scorer is completely clear, and if you mount it directly onto a white wall, you might have some trouble reading it. We recommend placing against dark contrasting colors for the best results. Another easy fix is putting a black piece of cardstock behind the board - a cheap way to fix any visibility issues on white surfaces.
You won't get automated game modes like you would with a digital scorer, but this is still a stylish choice to have alongside your dart board, and at a much lower cost. This scoreboard is also a bit smaller for keeping track of other games, but you'll have no problem when scoring cricket. We also suggest picking up neon liquid chalk as a fun alternative writing tool if you want a little more "pop" on the scoreboard. The Illumiscore is a stylish product and functions very well. A piece to complete any dart room.
Top Features:
- Multiple size options (15.5'' x 7.5'' or 19'' x 10'')
- Comes with two grease pencils for easy writing and erasing
- Wipes off easily while not creating any mess
- Storage section for pencils
Conclusion: The Illumiscore Light Up Scorer is a refreshing take the traditional chalk scoreboards. The ease of use and no mess while erasing makes this scorer stand out.
4. Viper Dry Erase Scoreboard
Fans of the dry erase can pick up Scoremaster's dart scoreboard. This board measures at 15.5 H x 11.5 W inches. The plastic construction is rigid and sturdy and will hold up just fine at about 1/8 inches thick. Mounting holes are preset into the board for you to place right onto the wall.
A pen is included with a holding clip placed right at the bottom of the board. An extra touch that brings a little more convenience to the setup. The set doesn't come with any particular tools for mounting the board to the wall. You shouldn't have much trouble hanging it from most standard drywall or other surfaces, and the choice of wall hangers is up to you. Medium-sized nails, or command strips and other non-damage hangers, should do the trick.
You can pick up an eraser for cleanup, or any dry cloth will work no problem, keeping the mess to a minimum. If any marker does stick to the board, you can add a little water to help remove any writing.
This is an easy to use and straight forward product. If you don't like the idea of complicated electronic scoreboards and just want something that will provide clean functionality, then consider Viper Dry Erase. A good product with no frills that works for any group of players.
Top Features:
- Available in two sizes: Large (23.5" H x 15.5" W), Small (15.375" H x 7.875" W)
- Designed for cricket and all 01 games
- Comes with a dry erase marker with eraser tip
Conclusion: If you're a traditionalist looking for the good old dry erase scoreboard, this your best bet. This scoreboard also happens to be the best-selling unit on Amazon with over 250+ positive reviews.
5. Scoremaster Chalk Scoreboard
Almost identical to the dry erase version, we have Scoremaster's chalk dart scorer. The same quality is on display here but will appeal to players who prefer an old school vibe. The board has mounting holes ready to go, but you'll need to choose how you'll want to mount it. The thickness and size are the same as the dry erase version, measuring 15.5 H x 11.5 W inches, and a thickness around .1 inch or 1/8th inch.
This board includes chalk to get you started, and has a holder at the bottom for easy access. We found no issues with wiping this board clean, or evidence of left behind markings. The size here is just right, and will be great for larger groups of players, but won't take up a ton of room like larger chalkboards.
If you don't mind the mess chalk can leave behind, then it is a great product. No cheap materials seem to be used. Everything holds up with no damage after installation. If you need that classic look to fit your game room, then Scoremaster's chalk dart scorer might be just what you need. Another strong product by the Scoremaster company at a reasonable price.
Top Features:
- Made of 1/8" thick plastic
- Measures 15.5" high X 11.5" wide
- Designed for cricket and all 01 games
Conclusion: If you're looking for a durable and battle-tested scoreboard, then the Scoremaster would be ideal for you. The board is easy to clean and does not leave any marks. Also, the design is similar to what you find at the local pubs giving you a more authentic gameplay feeling.
Buyer's Guide to Dart Scoreboard
When choosing a dart scoreboard, you need to consider a few points like the type (digital or manual), size, and, most importantly, the budget. We've discussed each of the factors in details below:
Digital Scorers:
Digital dart scorers provide the most functionality and features, but at a much higher price point. If you think you'll be playing a lot of dart games and putting in the hours of practice, especially with multiple players, then it's hard to pass up on the huge convenience that a digital scorer provides. These are the best way to keep the pace of the game going quickly.
If you do pick a digital scorer, you are also getting access at least a few dozen game modes. Things like 301 League, Round the Clock, Hi-score, Shanghai, and more. If a variety of game modes doesn't mean much for you, then you'll have to go with a digital scorer. Plus, you'll have access to a computer player, which is great for players who don't have an easy way to play with others close to their skill level. Or, you can use the handicap feature to help even things out.
Most serious players will want to opt for a digital scorer. They come jam-packed with features, and are the best way to keep track of everyone's points during the competition. Unless the price point is an issue, you can't go wrong with this choice.
Manual Scorers:
You have a few options for manual scoreboards. Luminescent, dry erase, and chalk. Each one can function just as well as the other, but have their own pros and cons. A lot of this decision will come down to how well they fit your game space, in terms of style.
Luminescent boards have the advantage of being the easiest to clean and with little to no mess. If you can use grease pencils or neon liquid chalk for fun, bright, and easy to read visuals. The glow of the board will work great in dimly lit rooms. The downside is that they often are clear, and will function better depending on the color of the wall they are against. If you have bright colored walls in your game room, this can cause some issues for you.
Dry erase is in the middle for ease of cleaning and mess. Any eraser or dry cloth will do the trick. These boards can hold up for a long time, but repeated use will eventually leave some signs of old markings and stains. A little water can get the ink off the board, but you'll eventually have to replace a dry erase.
Chalkboards are durable but can cause some mess. They are priced about the same as dry erase, and you'll get the same basic functionality. Pick either one, depending on which writing utensil you like better and which will match the theme of your darts room.
Price
This could be the biggest deciding factor as you'll find a large price gap between the manual scorers and the digital ones. It can be roughly twice as much or more to purchase a digital scorer. If the budget is tight, this might automatically rule digital out.
Consider what kind of functionality you need, and how many players you'll be playing with. Will you use the different game modes included? Answering these questions will help you decide if the price of entry is worth it for a digital scorer.
Let's Wrap Things Up:
Darts is a great game that can be tons of fun for all players. Don't let the mundane task of keeping track of scores slow interfere with your game. There are some great choices for dart scorers available that come with as many or as few features as you need.
Once you start to use a dart board scorer, you'll realize just what you were missing out on, and never go back to the old fashion way! If you are a pro player and haven't picked one up yet, get out there and grab one now. For the new players, a scorer will help you learn the ropes, so don't miss out either!