If you are an extreme darts fan, then finding the best dart board is the pathway to an improvement in-game skill. Whether playing casually or aiming to compete at a higher level, it makes a big difference with the right board. In this guide we will dive into the different types of dart boards and top 10 dart boards, highlighting the features of each of these to help you find the one that best suits your requirements.
History of the Dart Board
The dartboard itself is steeped in history from medieval England, where troops would hone their throwing skills by hurling spears or arrows into tree trunks or barrel ends. With time, this became a form of entertainment where tree rings served as a natural scoring segment.
By the late 19th century, the design of the dartboard became somewhat uniform, mostly due to the work of woodworker Brian Gamlin in 1896, who introduced the now-famous numbering system to reduce luck and enhance skill.
First, it was replaced by the sisal fiber boards during the 20th century, which provided durability and a self-healing aspect to the sport. Soon after came the electronic dartboards for advanced features such as automatic scoring. Today, the dartboard is an internationally known symbol of leisure and competition, mixed with tradition and innovation.
Different Types of the Best Dart Boards
There are several types of dartboards to suit different preferences, skill levels, and environments. Here’s a summary of the most common ones:
Bristle Dart Board: The Classic
Bristle dartboards are indeed the standard for serious players and tournaments all over the world. They are made from densely packed fibers of sisal, a material given by the agave plant, which is very durable. Such construction enables the dartboard to “self-heal” when darts are taken out because the fibers close back together.
Basically, bristle boards have staple-free bullseyes and thin wire dividers that minimize bounce-outs.These boards for steel-tip darts are very durable, usually lasting for several years with good care. Unlike electric boards, bristle boards do not require electricity, thus making them the most suitable for traditional gameplay.
Players appreciate their authentic feel and adherence to professional standards. Regular rotation of the board extends its lifetime and keeps gameplay even.
Electronic Dart Board: The Modern
Electronic dartboards are a favorite of many due to their carefree usage and interaction provided. Constructed of plastic with small perforated holes, they are designed for soft-tip darts to ensure safety and minimize wall damage. Built-in electronic sensors in these scoreboards make it easier to track scores automatically without much interaction.
Most electronic dartboards come with the added functionality of multiple games, sounds, and even lights, as well as digital readouts. They are perfect for group games as well where you can get to enjoy simple modifications such as the cricket, 301, and so on. These boards need power; you can use batteries or an adapter to power them.
Although not as long-lasting as bristle boards they are suitable for home entertainment or social events. Even better models offer online play features where players from around the globe can engage in competition.
Magnetic Dartboard: The Innocent
Magnetic dartboards are great for casual, family-friendly fun dart games. The flat-tipped magnetic darts stick to a board with a metallic coating applied, thereby ruling out the sharp points and making it totally safe for the kids and beginners.
These boards are light and portable and can easily be hanged for home or travel use. Most of them come in traditional dartboards, while some are really entertaining with their theme and design, thus appealing to people of all ages.
While magnetic boards lack the precision and durability of both bristle and electronic boards, they provide a low-maintenance alternative that is safe. The magnets keep darts in place so as to provide a satisfying experience with no damage to walls or even injury. This feature ensures a relaxed and stress-free gameplay experience in any setting!
Cork Dart Board: The Cheap
The cork dartboard is very economical and normally used by amateurs or as a hobby. These boards are made of just natural cork material or compressed cork layers, offering a soft surface to accommodate steel-tip darts. Once darts are withdrawn, the holes remain visible since cork boards do not self-heal like bristle boards.
These boards are lightweight and thus easy to hang or move; they are also generally smaller than professional boards. Lighter and less durable than the bristle boards, they are ideal for light usage or as an introduction to darts.
Cork dartboards are best suited to occasional play since this type of board wears down fast with heavy usage. Inexpensive and simple, they are a good option for the recreational player and/or decoration.
Wooden Dartboard: The Ancient
Classic wooden dartboards, very often a sign of rustic charm, are durable. In ancient times, these wooden boards were used for games. Currently, American style darts boards are made of wood. These boards are usually made from hardwood, like elm or poplar, and therefore provide a good surface against steel tip darts.
Unlike bristle or cork boards, the wooden ones do not “self-heal,” meaning that with frequent use, they may show wear and tear marks with time.
Since they need regular care like oiling to stop the wood from drying and cracking, they are not as common in today’s games. Wooden dartboards are commonly double-function pieces: aside from being dartboards, they have been used to add aesthetic value to game rooms or pubs.
Though it may be less practical to use them for professional play, wooden dartboards are ideal for enthusiasts who want the tradition and vintage of darting.
Coiled Paper Dart Board: The Different
Coiled paper dartboards are more of an entry-level choice, ideal for casual play and beginners. These boards are made by coiling layers of paper tightly to achieve a surface-friendly for darts. When steel-tip darts penetrate the board, the paper layers securely hold the darts in place; however, self-healing does not occur, and visible marks remain after every throw.
Coiled paper boards, lightweight and less expensive, are easy to mount and replace, hence being an economical option for amateur players. Still, coiled paper is less durable than bristle or cork and might wear off with too much playing.
Coiled paper dartboards often come double-sided, combining different game formats, for instance, traditional darts on one side and target-based games on the other, to enhance versatility when playing as a family.
Hybrid Dartboard: The Extreme
Hybrid dartboards combine features of bristle and electronic dartboards, offering versatility and advanced gameplay options .They feature a traditional bristle surface for use with steel-tip darts but include embedded electronic sensors that automatically register scores. This innovative design removes manual scorekeeping while retaining the authentic feel of traditional play.
Hybrid boards often feature on-board displays, sound effects, and varied game modes that appeal both to the casual player and to the serious fan. Other variants support app integration, enabling online gameplay or even performance tracking.
Durable and convenient, these hybrid dartboards grant players a middle ground between classic darting and modern technology. They work great in home set-ups or in clubs and give a premium experience to persons with varied skills and game preferences.
Top 10 Choice Dartboards on the Market
There are lots of the best dartboard brands available on the market now. But some of the special or top 10 choices of best dart boards are given below:
Winmau Blade 6 Triple Core Dartboard for Professionals
The Winmau Blade 6 Triple Core is the dartboard for serious players and tournaments. Revolutionary triple-core construction ensures unparalleled durability, increased scoring, and a self-healing sisal surface. Minimize bounce-outs with its ultra-thin wiring system, and achieve precision in every throw with its staple-free bullseye.
This board meets professional standards, thus being perfect for competitive gameplay. Due to its superior craftsmanship, the Blade 6 boasts exceptional performance and consistency for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Winmau Dartset Black for Professionals
The Winmau Dartset Black is manufactured for professional players, assuring superior performance and durability. A set comprising premium steel-tip darts in sleek black for excellent grip and aerodynamic precision, this dart is balanced for accuracy and perfect for competitive games.
When combined with Winmau’s superior accessories, this dartset meets professional standards and will be a top choice for the serious dart enthusiast who demands reliability and style.
Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 Dartboard EP2 for Professionals
The Unicorn Eclipse Pro 2 EP2 Dartboard is designed for professional players with tournament-grade quality and performance. Constructed from ultra-dense, self-healing sisal, it provides durability and consistency.
The staple-free construction and ultra-thin spider wiring ensure maximum score ability with minimal bounce-outs. Professional-approved by the PDC, this dartboard will please even the most discerning players for years to come.
Mission Samurai Infinity Dartboard for Professionals
The Mission Samurai Infinity Dartboard presents the highest quality for enthusiasts and professionals alike in the game of darts. Constructed from high-density, self-healing sisal to provide long life and performance, its staple-free bullseye and ultra-thin, angled wiring feature minimize bounce-outs and maximize the scoring bed area.
Meeting all professional standards, the Samurai Infinity will be great for competitive gameplay and training. This professionally crafted dartboard offers a truly superior playing experience for those players who demand perfection and accuracy in every game.
Bulls Advantage 701 Dartboard for Professionals
The Bull’s Advantage 701 Dartboard is designed for professionals and serious players, combining great durability with excellent playing characteristics. Manufactured from high-grade, self-healing sisal for consistent playing performance over its lifetime.
Featuring a staple-free bullseye and ultra-thin spider wiring for reduced bounce-outs and improved scoring accuracy. Tournament-standard specification, the Advantage 701 is perfect for competitive games, giving reliability and precision to players wanting to take their darting to the next level.
Granboard 132 Electronic Dartboard for Professionals
Granboard 132 is a cutting-edge electronic dartboard for professionals, featuring a full 13.2-inch size to tournament standard, accommodating soft-tip darts while guaranteeing precise scoring through advanced sensor technology. It connects with mobile apps for online play, practice modes, and performance tracking.
Strong and versatile, the Granboard 132 offers a premium experience for the serious player, merging traditional gameplay with advanced digital features in one unit for competitive and recreational use.
Harrows Quadro 240 Dartboard for Professionals
The Harrows Quadro 240 Dartboard is something of an original for professionals, with a four-tier scoring system that affords added challenges. Constructed from high-quality, self-healing sisal, it promises great longevity and reliable performance.
It boasts ultra-thin wiring that prevents bounce-outs, while the staple-free bullseye ensures dead-on accuracy. For advanced gameplay, the Quadro 240 is professional-grade perfect, ideal for players seeking precision and innovation in competition or practice.
Ruthless Marksman Dartboard for Professionals
The Ruthless Marksman Dartboard is designed for professionals, combining endurance and high performance. This dartboard uses a high-quality, self-healing sisal that holds up to serious play without sacrificing consistency.
Additionally, it features ultra-thin wiring and a staple-free bullseye, maximizing the scoring area while minimizing bounce-outs. Meeting all tournament standards, the Marksman hits the spot with precision and reliability, perfect for competitive matches and serious practice sessions.
Shot Bandit Dartboard (4th Gen) for Professional
The Shot Bandit Dartboard, 4th Generation, is designed to last with professional-grade performance and durability in mind. Constructed from high-density, self-healing sisal for a long life and consistency in play, its razor-thin, staple-free wiring system minimizes bounce-outs while offering huge scoring potential.
Meeting international tournament standards, the Bandit 4th Gen assures the player of precision and reliability in every way. Advanced in design, it remains the first choice for competitive play and professional-level practice.
KOTO Classic Edition Dartboard for Beginners
The KOTO Classic Edition Dartboard is ideal for beginners, as it offers real durability at a very reasonable price. High-quality, compressed sisal provides for a smooth playing surface that also allows for self-healing.
It has the classic design with a staple-free bullseye and thin wiring, allowing for a reduced number of bounce-outs. The KOTO Classic can be considered light and easily mountable, and thus presents a good opportunity for new players to get acquainted with darts.
How to Choose the Best Dart Board
Choosing the right dartboard can significantly enhance your experience. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best dart board for your needs.
The Level of Players
When choosing a dartboard, think about your skill level. If you’re a beginner, an electronic board with automatic scoring can make things easier and more fun. For intermediate players, a bristle board offers durability and a more traditional feel. Advanced players should go for a high-quality bristle board with thin wires for the best performance and consistency.
What Purpose
Think of the purpose for which the dartboard is intended: will it be just for fun and relaxation with friends, or serious training? In the first case, you can consider an electronic board with inbuilt games. If your aim is to train seriously and compete, a high-quality bristle dartboard would be more appropriate for durability and an authentic playing experience.
Choose the Right Material
If you choose a bristle dartboard, consider one made from high-quality sisal fibers. High-quality boards are generally tightly packed, which serves as a better means of allowing the dart to “stick” and last longer. A good bristle dartboard should also have thin wires that simply divide the scoring sections of the board. Thicker wires could deflect darts, costing you your probable score.
For electronic dartboards, the material is less of an issue since the sensors and electronics are the primary components. However, for those who expect a high volume of throwing, construction and the durability of the surface would still be something to consider.
Size and Regulations
Most regulation dartboards are really just that: regulation size. They are 18 inches in diameter and 1.5 inches thick. The bullseye is to be 5 feet 8 inches from the floor, while the oche-so-called, or throw line should be 7 feet 9.25 inches away from the board.
If you ever intend to join a competition or wish to get an officially ruled board, you must select a board meeting these specifications.
Consider the Wiring System
The wiring system can severely affect your game. The board should feature a thin-wire system that minimizes deflection. Generally speaking, thin and high-quality wire boards provide for much more accurate shots and better playing.
Find a dartboard that boasts spider wiring or super thin wires to make sure you are getting as much scoring area as possible without having to worry about darts careening off the wires.
Quality of the Construction
In bristle dartboards, the rotation of the bullseye and superior construction is important. Rotation of the bullseye can increase the life of your board by allowing you to rotate your board on a regular basis and evenly distribute the wear and tear.
The better the board is constructed, the more durable and comfortable your experience will be. On an electronic board, the ease with which the operation of the scoring system should be smooth and readable, with clear displays.
Budget and Brand Reputation
Price will always be a factor. While high-quality boards are expensive, there are many options for lower prices that should satisfy quality. For bristle boards, stick with the big three Unicorn, Winmau. These companies have built a reputation over the years for producing high-quality dartboards. For electronic boards, brands like Arachnid or Viper are popular and have reliable systems.
The Best Dart Board Cabinet
The best cabinet for dartboards protects your board while adding style to your game room. When selecting a cabinet, make sure it is solidly constructed, preferably made of solid wood oak or pine for durability and a classic appearance.
A good cabinet must include significant storage for your darts, flights, and accessories. It could also feature built-in scoring panels or a scoreboard for easy tracking of your games.
Ensure that the cabinet is designed to hold a standard 18-inch dartboard and provides enough space around the board for comfortable play. Some cabinets also feature inside felt lining to protect your darts and board from possible damage.
Overall, the better a cabinet is made; the better it will complement both your dart setup and the style of your place.
The Best Dart Board Backboard
The best dartboard backboard is important to protect your walls and catch stray darts. In buying one, find a backboard that is large enough to envelop the area around the dartboard with ample protection.
A good-quality backboard should be manufactured from thick, durable materials like foam or cork that can absorb missed darts.
For style, many backboards come in wood or even felt finishes to match the décor of your room. Others still have a padded frame that prevents your darts from bouncing off. A good backboard should also be easy to install and maintain, with clear instructions provided for mounting.
Overall, a reliable dartboard backboard protects your walls and ads greater convenience and fun to your playing experience-keeping it is safe and tidy.
What is the best Brand for a Dartboard?
The best brand is usually determined by factors such as durability, performance, and one’s budget. Unicorn is the standard for professional players, as it develops high-quality boards with great durability and consistent play.
Winmau, known for precision, innovation, and grace, is another top-tier brand. Featuring durable and affordable boards, this brand exudes the same principles that make their boards so brilliant. Viper provides very good options for both beginners and casual players, embracing quality and value.
Bullshooter also does a great job, offering a range of electronic dartboards for home use. In the end, the best brand would be one that serves your needs in terms of play style and longevity.
Which dart board do Professionals use?
Professional dart players normally use Brunswick and Unicorn since both are well-reputed in the darting world for their quality and precision. Unicorn Eclipse Pro is preferred by most pros, as it is made of high-density, self-healing sisal fibers that allow one to consistently play.
The Winmau Blade 6 is also a quality pick, with advanced wiring systems and durable construction that makes this a board with the fewest bounce-outs for a very long time. These boards provide smooth, responsive surfaces and excellent durability, which is very critical in professional play.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference, but these brands dominate the professional circuit.
How big is a Professional Dart Board?
A professional dartboard is made according to the regulation size considered by the WDF and PDC. It is 17.75 inches or 45.1 cm in diameter, carries 20 numbered sections, and has two parts to the bullseye.
The inner bullseye is 0.5 inches or 1.27 cm in diameter, while the outer bullseye is 1.5 inches or 3.81 cm. The usual depth of the board ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches, from 3.8 to 5 cm, for strength and the same performance.
What is a real Dart Board made of?
A real dartboard is typically made of high-quality sisal fibers, a natural material derived from the agave plant. These fibers are tightly compressed to create a durable, self-healing surface that allows darts to stick without leaving permanent holes. The board’s wiring is often made from thin steel or brass, with thin wire dividers that separate the scoring sections.
The bullseye is usually made from bristle fibers or wood, while the outer edge is reinforced with a metal ring for strength and stability. High-end dartboards may also feature carbon or composite elements for improved durability and performance
How long do Dart Boards Last?
The life span is varied by material, usage, and care taken of a dartboard. The most common type used by professional players is sisal dartboards, which may last for 2 to 5 years with regular use, while the self-healing fibers reduce wear at every dart impact.
For electronic dartboards, the average span is 1 to 3 years, as their durability depends a lot on the type of darts used and how often they are played with.
Rotating the dartboard regularly can make it last longer, keeping it out of the sun in a cool, dry place, and not using too much force when throwing darts. These precautions will help increase its life expectancy by a big margin.