Both pool and snooker use cue stick to hit a ball into pockets. Although they are very similar in certain aspects, there are many important differences between the two. These differences can help determine which game is best for your needs.
Both pool or snooker, both tabletop cue sports, are tabletop. While the rules and equipment are similar, the objectives and play are completely different. In a nutshell pool has eight or 10 balls while snooker is made up of fifteen red balls. The type of pool you are playing will dictate the number and types of balls you will need. Snooker is much more complex than pool.
The aim of snooker consists of getting as many balls in your pocket as possible, while keeping your opponent’s ball out of the pocket. Each red or non-red ball you keep in your pocket earns you a point. You lose one shot. But if you manage to pocket all of the red or non-red balls, you are awarded three or six points.
A snooker board is similar in appearance to a pool deck, but it has pockets at each end. However, the balls are much smaller and the table is bigger. For example, snooker table lengths in Europe and Britain are approximately 6 feet while pool tables typically measure 5 feet.
As in pool, snooker uses a strict scoring system. You must keep a specific order in which you pocket the ball to earn a point. The frame ends when all of the red balls in the pocket are gone. Players can continue shooting until their shot is missed. The rules could vary depending upon where they are located. Some players may decide to take a callpocket. This is a great option to learn the game, as you get to pick the pocket ball.
Snooker has lighter cues that pool, and they are also thinner. They also have smaller tips. Because snooker is played at a larger table it can be harder to pocket the balls. You will also need more precision.
A player can advance from 8-ball to 9-ball. There are many pool variations to suit all levels of play. The 8-ball version is the most popular.
Snooker is more competitive than pool. The green call allows players to aim for the highest number of points in a set time period. The winner is the player with the most points.
Snooker and pool require quick reflexes as they are both fast-paced. However, the scoring system is more stringent in snooker. Even if all the balls were taken in the same order, fouls could be committed if any of the non-red or striped balls are found.
It doesn't matter how you choose to play, the game of snooker can be very entertaining. The sport is very popular in both the UK and USA.