Pool and snooker both use cue sticks for hitting a ball into a box. The games are similar in many ways, but they have important differences. These differences can help to better understand the game and choose the best game for you.
Both pool and snooker can be played on a tabletop. Although they have similar rules and equipment, their play objectives and play styles are very different. In short, pool has eight to ten balls while snooker has fifteen. The type of pool you play will determine the number of balls you use. Snooker is more complicated than pool.
Snooker's main objective is to keep your opponent's ball from reaching your pocket while capturing as many balls as possible. For each non-red or red ball you have, you earn a point. If you miss a shot, you are not awarded any points. But if you manage to pocket all of the red or non-red balls, you are awarded three or six points.
A snooker table is similar to a pool table in that it has pockets on either side. But the balls and table are much bigger. For instance, in Europe and the UK, snooker tables are usually around 6 feet long, while pool tables are typically only 5 feet.
As in pool, snooker uses a strict scoring system. To earn a point, you must pocket a particular ball in a specified order. Once all red balls have been retrieved, the frame is finished. Players can continue shooting until their shot is missed. Depending on the region, the rules may vary. Some players might choose to call-pocket. This is a great way for beginners to learn the game because you can choose your pocket ball.
Snooker uses lighter cues than pool. They also have smaller tips. Since snooker is played on a larger table, it can be more difficult to pocket balls. It also requires more precision.
You can play from 8 to 9 balls. There are many pool variations to suit all levels of play. Most players prefer the 8-ball version of the game.
Snooker is a lot more competitive than pool. Players aim to score the most points within a time limit by using the green call. The player with the highest number of points wins.
Snooker and pool are both fast-paced games that require good reflexes. The scoring system in snooker is stricter. Even if a player pockets all of the balls in sequence they are considered fouls if they take a striped or nonred ball.
It doesn't matter how you choose to play, the game of snooker can be very entertaining. It is a very popular sport in the UK and the US.