Hockey Tables > Bubble Hockey Features
Best Bubble Hockey Table Features
Don't just take a salesman or a manufacturer's word for the construction and parts in their dome hockey table, do your research before you make a purchase. If you find a bubble table in a local game room supplier chances are they will only carry one manufacturer. That is why we recommend that you check these retailers out in person but make your purchase online where you have all the options. The challenge with this approach is you need to complete your research on product reviews before you make a decision.
We want to help you as a buyer because we have compiled all the major table makers and ranked them using a five star rating. This is a great place to start so you can compare them side by side. Plus there are fewer manufacturers of the game vs. air hockey so vetting the right table that meets your price range shouldn't be that difficult. Below are the recommended features to look out for when shopping and doing your research.
- Heavy cabinet construction - The heavier the table the better in this case because the more durable parts and components weigh more. The pedestal or legs, internal gears, rods, men, table surface, mounting hardware, etc. all add up to make for a more solid play. Tables that come in under 150 pounds probably don't weigh enough to hold up for aggressive play.
- Electronic scoring - Electronic scoring comes with most every full size dome table out there. A lot of the tabletop rod hockey models don't have this feature which isn't a deal breaker in those versions. However, we wouldn't recommend a full size without this amazing convenience feature.
- Fast rod movement - This is hard to know online but we suggest reading reviews to ensure your rods and players move and spin quickly. This will make for a much better game when your rods aren't sluggish and drag when you try to slide them in and out.
- Adjustable leg or pedestal levelers - Most dome hockey models are made with a pedestal base to support the playing surface while some have legs. The pedestal versions tend to be a little less shaky during games but both options are acceptable. With either option we recommend that you look to see if it comes equipped with adjustable levelers to make sure for a fair match. You won't want to mess with shimming your table to get it level.
