Pool and snooker both use cue sticks for hitting a ball into a box. While the two games may be similar in many aspects, there are important differences. These differences will help you understand the game better and decide which one is right for you.
Pool and snooker both are tabletop games. While they share the same equipment and rules, the play and objectives of each game are totally different. In short, pool has eight to ten balls while snooker has fifteen. However, the number of balls that you will use depends on the type of pool that you are playing. Snooker is much more complex 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. You lose one shot. If you do manage to keep the red and non-red balls, however, you get three or six points.
A snooker table looks similar to a pool table except that it has pockets either side. However, the balls are much smaller and the table is bigger. Snooker tables in Europe and the UK are generally 6 feet long while pool tables are 5 feet.
As with pool, snooker relies on a stringent scoring system. To earn a point, you must pocket a particular ball in a specified order. The frame ends once all the red balls are accounted for. The frame is closed. Players may continue shooting until they miss their shot. The rules could vary depending upon where they are located. Some players may prefer to use a call pocket. This is a great way for beginners to learn the game because you can choose your pocket ball.
The cues used in snooker are thinner and lighter than those in pool. They also have smaller tips. Because snooker is played at a larger table it can be harder to pocket the balls. It requires greater precision.
A player can move up from 8-ball to nine-ball. There are a variety of variations of pool to suit every level of play. The most popular version of pool is the 8-ball.
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 player who gets the most points is the winner.
Snooker and pool require quick reflexes as they are both fast-paced. However, the scoring system is more stringent in snooker. Even if players pocket all the balls in a sequence, fouls can be committed even if they don't pocket a striped, non-red, or other ball.
The game of snooker, or pool, can be entertaining no matter what your preference. The sport is popular in both America and Britain.