What is the White Ball Called In Pool?
The white ball in a group of balls on a pool table is called the “Cue ball”. You strike the cue ball first, to make contact with another object ball to score points or make numbered balls in games such as 8-ball or 9-ball. This is the only ball that should be struck with the pool cue.
What is the Cue Ball Made Of?
Cue balls you see on pool tables today are usually made of a very strong resin material called phenolic resin. Sometimes, they can be made of a weaker plastic. This wasn’t always the case though. Up until the early 20th century, ivory was the material of choice for cue balls.
Are All Cue Balls the Same Size?
No, there are different sizes of cue balls. The most common cue ball is the 2.25-inch diameter ball that’s played in international pool games, such as 8-ball or 9-ball.
Other sizes of cue balls include – 2 11/16 inches (Russian Pyramid), 2 7/16 inches (Carom pool), 2 1/15 inches (Snooker), and 2 inches (British style pool).
Is the Cue Ball a Different Size Than the Rest of the Balls?
No, in traditional pool, the cue ball is the same size as the numbered & colored balls (or extremely close to the same size).
How Does the Pool Table Recognize the Cue Ball?
There are two ways pool tables can recognize a cue ball:
- The cue ball has to be slightly larger than all other balls
- The cue ball has a magnetized center
This will depend on the manufacturer of the coin-operated pool table.
If the pool table directs the cue ball based on size, the cue ball needs to be about an eighth of an inch larger than the other balls which are typically 2.25-inches in diameter.
This will cause the cue ball to bypass the normal ball return and be diverted to a special hole that runs it to the front of the table.
If the cue ball has a magnet center, the table (typically a Valley-Dynamo table) has a sensor that is triggered by the magnet, and this will re-route the ball to the cue ball return.
If having fun at the bar or pub is all you’re after, these cue balls will work just fine if you aren’t taking things too seriously. But, serious pool players looking to improve should not typically use either of these types of balls.
While it’s effect is very limited, a larger or weighted cue ball can have a negative impact on the player’s game, especially if they are used to playing with a cue ball that is completely unaltered.
What is the Best Cue Ball?
Aramith makes the best cue balls in the industry, and the Super Aramith Pro Cup is likely the best cue ball in billiards. Aramith cue balls are the most widely used cue ball in professional tournaments throughout the world. If you’re looking for a good investment, Aramith is the best route.
If you’re looking for a quality cue ball for your coin-operated pool table, check out this magnetic cue ball from Aramith.
Below, we’ll summarize two great premium cue ball options from Aramith:
Super Aramith Pro
- 2 1/4-inch diameter
- High-grade phenolic resin construction for optimal rebound characteristics and positioning
- Through-hardened, vitrified surface for superior longevity
Super Aramith Pro Cup
- 2 1/4-inch diameter
- Highest quality phenolic resin creates a ball that’s scratch and burn resistant
- 6 red dots allow the player to easily see the english in action and better understand cue ball control
- Undergoes the strictest specification tests in the industry to guarantee perfect density, balance, roundness, gloss, hardness and weight
What Happens if You Make the Cue Ball?
When you make the cue ball in a pocket, it’s called a “scratch.” A scratch is a foul that takes place after striking the cue ball and trying to make an object ball.
When you make the cue ball, the opponent usually gets “ball in hand” (places the cue ball wherever they want) for their next shot.
When Can You Put the Cue Ball Anywhere on the Table?
You can place the cue ball anywhere on the table for the next shot after your opponent makes a scratch. Taking advantage of a ball in hand is one of the easiest ways to win a pool match.
Wrap Up
We hope you’ve found this information on cue balls to be informative. The cue ball is a vital part of playing pool, and making sure you have a premium product will help you stay consistent. Keep an eye out for more awesome billiards content at The Cue Cave!
As always, Happy Shooting!
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