10 Best Intermediate Pool Cues: 2024 Review Guide
Big Cat Cues
Having an excellent pool cue might be crucial for intermediate pool players to improve their playing skills. If you are reaching the intermediate level, a top-notch pool stick can help you improve accuracy, control, and overall performance on the table. In this guide, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best intermediate pool cues in 2024 to help you make an informed choice.
8 Key Factors For Choosing The Best Intermediate Pool Cue
Nowadays, so many excellent pool sticks are available in the market making it difficult to choose a suitable one. When determining what constitutes a good pool cue for you, consider the list of variables below.
- Budget: Determine your budget before making a choice. Quality intermediate cues are available at various prices, so find one that meets your financial constraints without compromising performance.
- Cue Weight: Your cue weight significantly influences your game. Experiment with the cue weight from 18 to 21 ounces to find ideal weight that balances power and control for your playing style.
- Cue Length: While standard cue lengths are between 57-58 inches, you can choose the best one for you based on your preferences and playing style.
- Cue Tips: Pool cue tips are a vital part of a pool cue. Tips’ size and hardness will directly affect your shots. The standard tip size is around 12-14mm. The tip's hardness directly impacts your ability to apply spin and control the cue ball.
- Grip and Wrap: The grip or wrap material can significantly affect cue control. Opt for cues with comfortable grips or wraps, such as leather, Irish linen, or rubber, to ensure a secure hold while making precise shots.
- Shaft Material: Look for cues with low-deflection shafts to minimize cue ball deflection. These shafts enhance accuracy and consistency in your shots, which is particularly vital for intermediate and advanced players seeking precision.
- Design and Aesthetics: A cue's design and aesthetics can boost your confidence and enjoyment on the table. Choose a pool cue that resonates with your style and preferences, as it can enhance your overall experience.
- Joint Type: High-quality joint systems, such as Uni-Loc or Radial, ensure a secure connection between the shaft and butt. A reliable joint is crucial for precise shots and cue control.
10 Best Intermediate Pool Cues for Player
While a quality beginner cue is around $100-$200, intermediate pool cue prices tend to be higher due to their complex design, materials and capabilities. Below we’ve listed 10 of the best pool cues for intermediate players, that are both high quality and reasonable priced:
|
Pool Cue Name |
Features |
Prices |
|
Big Cat I Red Silver |
|
$69.99 |
|
Big Cat V Black Black |
|
$69.99 |
|
Big Cat Paint II Dynamite Blue |
|
$69.99 |
|
Big Cat Paint VI Electric Ocean |
|
$69.99 |
|
Viking Valhalla Pool Cue |
|
Around $110 |
|
Viper Revolution Spider Cue |
|
$129.99 - $148.49 |
|
Cuetec Starlight Series 58 Cue |
|
Around $200 |
|
McDermott Lucky L65 Leprechaun Cue |
|
Around $175 |
|
Players Technology Series HXT15 Two-Piece Pool Cue
|
|
Around $245 |
|
Lucasi Custom Pool Cue |
|
$400-$600 |
Big Cat I Red Silver
This pool cue features a classic design with a dark tone of silver, highlighted with bright red color and a white handle. Big Cat I Red Silver is suitable for intermediate players and offers a remarkable match of colors, and durable construction that will last for years.
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Lifetime warranty
- Affordable price
- Exceptional durability
- Canadian Maple materials help to avoid breaks, scratches, or any damage.
Cons
- Require regular maintenance
Big Cat V Black Black
The Big Cat V Full Black billiard cues gets the 2nd on our list of the best intermediate pool cues. The Big Cat V Full Black billiard cues offer an enigmatic appearance that expresses a unique sense of art. Its craftsmanship focuses on traditional techniques to ensure longevity and is intentionally designed to resist damage.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Outstanding longevity
- Timeless Classic Design with a blue/black color scheme and a white handle, a style that will withstand the test of time
- Focus on durability and long-lasting performance
- Best pool cue for the money with premium quality
Cons
- Adjustable weight systems can affect cue balance.
Big Cat Paint II Dynamite Blue
Big Cat paint II Dynamite Blue is considered a great pool cue for intermediate players. Crafted explicitly for enjoyment and entertainment, It guarantees a refreshing experience that will keep you engaged and excited.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Exclusive design that reflects your individuality and artistic sensibility
- Bring a refreshing experience that keeps you engaged and excited during the game
- High-quality materials ensure long-lasting durability
Cons
- Limited customization options
- Regular upkeep is necessary
Big Cat Paint VI Electric Ocean
Ready to shock your competitors with a one-and-only bright, overtone blue-based shade - Electric Ocean. With its unique color and design, Big Cat Paint IV is designed for extroverted pool players with lively spirits who like to encourage their partners to get involved and leverage your game’s excitement.
Pros
- Lifetime guarantee
- Big Cati unique pool cue design
- Represent a distinct aesthetic that reflects your individuality and artistic sensibility.
- High-quality materials ensure long-term durability
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Requires regular maintenance and adjustments
Viking Valhalla Pool Cue
Viking Cues has operated since 1965. They are well known for producing pool sticks that firmly and tactilely contact the cue ball.
The Valhalla series is their entry into the budget-conscious market. These pool sticks are suitable for beginners who want to move up to an intermediate setting. If you're starting to feel more comfortable using spin on the ball and attempting difficult trick shots, this cue is perfect.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Irish linen wrap
- Canadian Maple is dependable and precision-aligned.
Cons
- Does not include case
- It's not as snappy as a classic Viking Cue.
- Deflection is not a strong point.
Viper Revolution Spider Cue
Viper Revolution Spider Cue is an excellent choice with an outstanding design and impressively lightweight features. This pool stick is rare and won't fail to deliver the desired performance. It's also ranks as 6th on our list of best intermediate pool cues.
With its attractive design and top-notch performance, this pool cue is a crowd-pleaser. It offers players better control and the capability to achieve optimal speeds. Additionally, it's easy to handle, making it a popular choice.
Pros
- Lightweight due to its maple wood construction
- Offers excellent control
- Includes steel collar rings for added strength
- Reasonable priced, best pool cues under 200
Cons
- The art design is not for everyone
- Some cues has issues with tips cracking
Cuetec Starlight Series 58 Cue
Like other Cuetec Cue series, the Starlight Series Cues is an excellent option to boost your pool table performance. The exceptional performance of Cuetec in the pool sector over the past 20 years is well known. Everything, from its excellent cues to other pool accessories, deserves praise for its consistent success.
Pros
- Adjustable weight system allows for customization
- Nicely finished cue
- Comfortable and smooth playing experience
Cons
- Limited customization
- Lower resale value
- Durability features might not suit all players
McDermott Lucky L65 Leprechaun Cue
This best pool cue for intermediate players ranks 4th in our top intermediate pool cues list. It's a two-piece design with various attractive color options that will satisfy you.
It's undeniably impressive and crafted from sturdy Maple wood, ensuring durability. The cue length is also suitable for most players. The steel collar on this cue enhances its appearance and grip, giving you excellent control.
Pros
- Perfect choice with colorful design and different weight
- Offering affordable stainless steel joint
Cons
- Hard-tip affecting the shot
Players Technology Series HXT15 Two-Piece Pool Cue
The HXT15 belongs to one of the best intermediate pool cues due to its excellent performance and design.
Purex is one of the best pool cue brands known for its high-quality pool cues. This particular cue is no exception, with its top-rated appearance to get you noticed.
It's the preferred choice among best pool cues for intermediate players. Crafted from durable maple, it features a low-deflection tip and a comfortable length that suits most users.
Pros
- Excellent value compared to other advanced pool cues.
- The low-deflection shaft is subtle but effective.
- Superior accuracy and hard-hitting balance.
Cons
- Soft tips wear over time.
- It is not on the level of Predator's deflection shafts.
- Not many styles and color options
Lucasi Custom Pool Cue
With fantastic features and outstanding player abilities, this model should be a perfect pool cue for an intermediate player. Its perfect craftsmanship will leave an impression. The brand is renowned for its commitment to ongoing improvement and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Furthermore, this model excels in performance, providing a steady grip with minimal vibration, making it a superb selection. It comes with a Tiger Everest tip, ensuring precise aim and the perfect spin for your gameplay.
Pros
- Unique classical style
- Provides the best performance.
- Extremely solid, supreme tip, and high-end formation creates the perfect experience.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons
- Expensive
- Wrapless handles may change color quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Accurate Pool Cue?
Among all the mentioned high quality pool cues, Lucasi Custom can be considered the most accurate pool cue. It features a secure grip and minimal vibration. The pool cue also boasts a Tiger Everest tip, ensuring precision and the perfect spin to elevate your game. Famous for its constant innovation, the pool cue never has a dull moment and is always striving to create the best player experience.
What Is The Best Professional Pool Cue?
Big Cat Paint VI Electric Ocean is the ultimate choice for professional pool players. It combines affordability with top-quality materials for lasting durability and top-notch performance.
Ideal for enthusiastic players, Big Cat VI boasts unique artistic designs inspired by paintbrush strokes and comes in various colors, giving you the perfect opportunity to showcase your style.
What Type Of Pool Cues Do Professionals Use?
Professional pool players typically use high-quality custom or production cues to meet their preferences and playing styles. The choice of pool cues for intermediate among professionals can vary widely. Still, there are some common characteristics and brands that are popular among them:
- Custom Cues
- Low-Deflection Shafts
- High-Quality Materials
- Joint Systems
- Customization
- Famous Brands
In conclusion, finding the best intermediate pool cue in 2024 was a challenge. We hope that with several options from this comprehensive guide, you can now decide on your pool cue to enhance your game and take your pool skills to the next level.
Whether you prioritize balance, weight, materials, or design, choosing one that fits your budget and suits your playing style and preferences is essential.
See more related articles:
Best pool cues for advanced players
Best pool cues for beginners
