The choice of best dart boards are really matters. A good board helps improve accuracy, reduces bounce-outs, and lasts longer. This guide reviews the best dartboards for professionals and beginners in 2025. With so many options available, knowing what to look for will help you make an informed choice.
This guide covers the best dartboards for professional players alike-in 2025. Besides, it represents what makes either bristle, electronic, or magnetic different from others, what size a board has, how its wiring is, and the quality of its material.
History of the Dart Board
The history of dartboards dates back centuries, with their evolution tied to the growth of darts as a sport. Originally, people played darts as a pastime in pubs. Early dartboards were often made of wood, and the target areas were carved or painted. The design was simple, with basic scoring areas. These boards were not standardized, so their shapes and sizes varied greatly.
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.
In 1909, the British Dart Organization (BDO) standardized the dartboard layout. This included specific sections for scoring, with the bullseye at the center and outer rings designed to give varying point values. These rules helped the game to spread across the globe.
In the 1930s, dartboards began to be made of sisal fibers. This material replaced wood, offering a longer lifespan and a more durable surface. The use of sisal boards became the standard for professional tournaments, making them more common in homes and bars as well.
Today, dartboards are made from various materials, including cork, wood, and synthetic fibers. They are still largely based on the classic design that was standardized over a century ago. Modern dartboards also feature electronic scoring systems for easy tracking.
Dartboards have come a long way since their simple beginnings. They remain at the heart of the game of darts, reflecting the sport’s rich history and growth over the years.
Dartboards come in different types, each offering its own advantages. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious competitor, choosing the right dartboard is crucial for a good experience. Here’s a look at the different types of dartboards, explaining their key features and how they fit various needs.
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 Dartboard
The most common dartboard type is the bristle dartboard. These are often used in professional settings and are a standard choice in tournaments. Bristle dartboards are made from sisal fibers, which are tightly packed together.
When darts strike the board, the material allows the dart to stick and remain in place. One of the reasons bristle boards are so popular is that they can self-heal. This means that the sisal fibers will close up around the holes left by the darts, reducing wear and tear.
Over time, this helps maintain the quality of the board. Bristle dartboards are also durable and provide a consistent playing surface.
Electronic Dartboards
There are also electronic dartboards, which are commonly found in bars or recreational settings. Electronic dartboards are equipped with sensors that register when a dart hits the board.
These sensors automatically score the game, saving players the time and effort of doing it manually. Many electronic boards come with preset games and different levels of difficulty, making them ideal for beginners or casual players.
They often feature bright, LED displays that show the score clearly, even in dimly lit rooms. While they are convenient, some players feel that they lack the traditional feel of a bristle dartboard.
However, they are still a solid option for people who enjoy a relaxed, tech-driven experience.
Magnetic Dartboard
Another popular type of dartboard is the magnetic dartboard. These are ideal for younger players or anyone looking for a safer option. Instead of using sharp steel-tipped darts, magnetic dartboards use darts with magnets.
This makes them a safer choice, especially in households with children. While magnetic dartboards may not provide the same level of challenge as bristle or electronic dartboards, they still offer a fun and low-risk way to enjoy the game. These good dartboards are very popular for family entertaining.
These dartboards are often made from a softer material that can attract the magnets, providing enough grip to hold the dart in place. Magnetic dartboards are generally less expensive and easier to maintain than other types.
Wooden Dartboards
Then, there are wooden dartboards, which offer a more traditional feel. These are often made from solid wood and may feature a bristle surface, but they can also be crafted with other materials.
Wooden dartboards are less common than the other types but are still favored by some players for their aesthetics. They can bring a vintage or rustic look to a room, but they do require more care and maintenance than bristle dartboards.
The surface of wooden dartboards may be more susceptible to wear and damage, especially with frequent play. However, for players who appreciate the craftsmanship and appearance of a wooden board, this type can be a rewarding choice.
Coiled Paper Dartboard
Coiled-Wire dartboards are another option that players may encounter. 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.
Tournament Dartboards
These dartboards are a step up from regular bristle boards in terms of quality. They are designed to meet the standards set by official dart organizations like the World Darts Federation (WDF). These boards often use the highest-quality sisal fibers and are built to withstand heavy use.
The wiring on tournament dartboards is often thinner and more compact, allowing for more precise scoring. Many serious players choose tournament boards because they offer the most consistent performance and are designed to provide the best possible experience for competitive play.
These boards can be more expensive than standard bristle boards, but they are a top choice for players looking to practice or compete at a high level.
Cabinet Dartboard
Another variation is the cabinet dartboard, which is a complete set that includes the dartboard along with a protective cabinet. This type is typically made of wood and has doors that close to protect the board from dust and damage when not in use.
Cabinet dartboards often come with built-in scoreboards and dart holders, making them a convenient choice for home players. These sets are not only functional but also stylish, often designed to complement the decor of a game room or home bar.
While they may be more expensive than basic dartboards, they provide a neat and organized way to keep everything in one place.
Hybrid Dartboard
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 Dart Board Brands on the Market
There are lots of the best dart board brands available on the market now. But some of the special or top 10 choices of dart boards are given below:
Winmau
Winmau is one of the oldest and most respected dartboard manufacturers. It also has the best rated dartboards on the market. They specialize in bristle boards made from high-quality sisal.
The Winmau Blade 6 series features thin wiring that reduces bounce-outs. Many professional tournaments use Winmau boards because of their durability and consistent playability. The brand also offers dart accessories, including dart cases and practice rings, to help players improve their skills.
Unicorn
Unicorn has a long history in professional darts. Somebody calls the decent dartboard. They make both bristle and electronic boards. Their Eclipse Pro series is popular in major competitions, including PDC events.
Unicorn boards have a staple-free design that improves scoring potential. The brand also offers a variety of training boards for players looking to improve their skills. Additionally, Unicorn partners with professional players to develop high-performance dart equipment tailored to competitive needs.
Nodor
Nodor invented the modern bristle dart board in 1932. Their boards use premium sisal, ensuring long-lasting play. The Supamatch 3 model features razor-thin wiring to reduce deflections.
Nodor boards are a great choice for both casual and serious players who want a traditional experience. The company also produces a range of dart accessories, including high-quality flights and shafts, to complement their boards.
Viper
Viper produces both bristle and electronic boards. Their bristle boards use self-healing sisal, while their electronic boards include features like automatic scoring. The Viper Shot King is a budget-friendly option with a staple-free bullseye.
Their electronic boards, like the Viper 800, cater to players who enjoy digital scorekeeping. Viper also offers dart cabinets, which provide an organized way to store darts and accessories while protecting the board.
Arachnid
Arachnid is a leader in electronic dart boards. Their BullShooter series includes arcade-style boards with multiplayer options. Many of their boards feature NylonTough segments, which improve durability and reduce bounce-outs.
Arachnid boards are common in bars and tournaments where electronic scoring is needed. They also manufacture soft-tip darts and accessories to ensure compatibility with their electronic models.
Target
Target makes high-end dart boards and accessories. Their Aspar series offers an alternative to traditional sisal boards. The company invests in research to improve board longevity and performance.
Target boards often include unique numbering systems that enhance visibility. They also produce professional-grade darts, featuring tungsten barrels that provide greater accuracy and control for serious players.
Harrows
Harrows has been making dart boards for decades. They focus on bristle boards and provide a range of options for different skill levels. The Pro Matchplay board has ultra-thin wiring for fewer bounce-outs. Harrows products are known for their consistency and affordability. The brand also manufactures a variety of dart sets and grip-enhancing accessories to improve gameplay.
Shot Darts
Shot Darts, based in New Zealand, specializes in both dart boards and accessories. Their boards feature bold designs with clear numbering. The Bandit Plus is a standout model, offering a staple-free bullseye and minimal wiring. It is one of the best dartboards for home use.
Shot Darts products cater to players who want a reliable board with a unique look. The company also designs handcrafted darts with intricate engravings, making them a favorite among collectors.
Gran Board
Gran Board focuses on soft-tip electronic dart boards. Their boards connect to mobile apps, allowing players to track their progress and compete online. The Gran Board 3s is a popular choice among soft-tip players.
These boards work well for those who prefer digital features over traditional play. The integration of online play features makes Gran Board a top choice for players who enjoy competitive gaming from home.
One80
One80 is a relatively new brand, but this company is gaining huge momentum. The One80 bristle boards are made with superior sisal and ultra-thin wiring. For example, the model of Gladiator 3+ can easily compete with more expensive brands by its quality and design.
One80 reaches a great balance between affordability and high performance, suitable for players at all levels. This company also manufactures lots of dart cases and personalized dart designs for players interested in personalizing their darts.
How to Choose the Good Dart Boards
Choosing the good dart boards 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 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.
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.