Game room open
Straight-talking buying guides for dartboards, darts, setup gear, table games and the bar that ties a game room together. We tell you what matters, what to measure and what to skip, then point you to the options.
Starting points we'd look at first. Each button opens a current Amazon search so you can compare listings and sellers.
Good for: Players who want a tournament-style board with thin wiring that cuts down on bounce-outs.
Check before you buy: Comes in standard and Triple Core versions. Check that the listing is the genuine Winmau model and that the hanging bracket is included.
See options on Amazon →Good for: Players who want online play and stat tracking through an app.
Check before you buy: Read the app and device requirements in the listing. Some features may need an account.
See options on Amazon →Good for: Shadow-free light all around the board.
Check before you buy: Look at how it mounts (to the board, the surround or the wall) and whether it uses USB or a wall plug.
See options on Amazon →Good for: Players who want tungsten barrels in many grip styles and weights.
Check before you buy: Note the weight and the tungsten percentage. Start in the 22 to 24 gram range if you're unsure.
See options on Amazon →Good for: A fast, social game that takes less room than pool.
Check before you buy: Look at the weight (heavier tables move less), the rod type and whether the rods stick out through both sides.
See options on Amazon →Good for: That pub glow without glass tubes.
Check before you buy: LED neon runs cooler and uses less power. Check the size and the plug or adapter.
See options on Amazon →We read maker specs and league rules, and we look for the details that trip people up, like board thickness, throw distance, dart weight limits and room clearances. We don't publish star ratings or prices we can't stand behind. Listings and prices change, so always check the current Amazon listing before you buy.
Start with a sisal bristle board, a set of 22 to 24 gram steel-tip darts, a surround and a throw line. Hang it at 5 feet 8 inches to the bullseye and you're ready for 501.
Pick your first darts →