Getting yourself to learn any game is easier said than done, especially if the game is as competitive as the pool games.
Most beginners confess that the billiard seemed so easy to tackle as they watched others play. But when it was their turn to play, they got stuck too many times.
Reason? The game requires plenty of techniques and tricks, which players have to master over time.
One thing is for sure, however, owning a pool cue stick is one way to boost any beginners’ skills instantly. And you’re likely to learn the game pretty fast than anticipated.
Therefore, if you’re an on-budget player, you will find some of the most fantastic beginner pool cues under 100, to help you get started.
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Best Beginner Pool Cues under 100
The viper brand is famously known for its wide range of high-quality pool cues. And their Revolution Spider 58″ 2-Piece Billiard isn’t any different.
This cue features an attractive spider-web design, making it an ideal pick for art lovers. It will also ensure you stand out in the crowd.
It’s not only the butt of this cue that proudly displays the spider-web designs, but also the grip.
This device’s grip is silicon infused to ensure you comfortably without dealing with any adverse tension or vibrations.
And that’s not all. This Viper Revolution Spider 58″ cue offers players customized weights, which range from 18-21 ounces.
The Le Pro leather tip is 13mm, and it guarantees you reliability.
To ensure durability, the manufacturer of this cue constructed it using top-notch hard Canadian Maple wood, which is the standard material in today’s market.
I also love the fact that this billiard is a 2 piece, making it easy to transport to your favorite playing spot and taking less storage space.
Plus, it comes with a removable scuffer, so get to adjust it easily.
And to ensure you enjoy consistency as you play, this device comes features stainless steel joints.
- Comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty on manufacturer defects
- Made from durable Canadian maple wood
- It’s lightweight making it easy to transport
- Easy to store thanks to the 2-piece design
- Affordable
- Beautiful design
- The tip tends to wear out pretty fast.
Having a fixed budget doesn’t mean you can’t get a good cue.
This RAGE Heavy Hitter Jump Break Cue is a valid combination of decent quality and affordability.
It features a solid construction that promises to offer its users durability and reliability.
Also, this piece is perfect for breaking, and although some players use it as a jump cue, most prefer not to but praise its effectiveness.
However, you should be careful about its phenolic tip.
It tends to make miscues pretty easy, especially if you aren’t breaking in the middle of your cue ball.
But if you’re doing everything right, that shouldn’t worry you as the tip is hard enough, making it excellent for breaking.
You can also adjust the tip according to preference and enjoy the game.
One thing that’s obvious about this 1.6 pounds (shipping weight) billiard is that it’s undoubtedly heavy.
And while this might be a little bit overwhelming at the beginning, most players confess that they got used to it within a short time and enjoyed breaking.
And although the overall construction quality isn’t as perfect as when dealing with more expensive options, at its pricing.
I can confidently say it offers value for money. Therefore, if you prefer heavy cues than lighter and affordable, this cue is for you.
- Great pricing
- No premature wear and tear
- You can have 3 cues in one if you choose to adjust from various angles (butt-end, middle section, and the original 58-inches)
- Gives a firm grip
- Offers a consistent spread
- Comes in various colors.
- No extra accessories
- Few reports of a clanky sound. But that can be corrected.
Like the RAGE Heavy Hitter Jump Break Cue, this McDermott cue kit doesn’t come with any wrap, making it for individuals seeking for a more excellent hold.
It’s made of Canadian maple wood, to give it a decent quality.
And the fact that it weighs only 21 oz gives you the ability to hit as hard as you can.
This makes this cue a worthwhile purchase, mainly because it’s affordable than other sticks within its rank.
This classic pool cue kit comes in either dark grey or white, so you at least get an option to choose, even though it could do much better with more color options.
When you receive this package, you will find a soft case complete with a smart side pocket, a chalk holder, two billiard chalk, and a tip scuffer. So, you get to save extra bucks.
Still, on the tip, I love the fact that it’s a scuffer133mm. Therefore, you can comfortably hit the cue balls’ base/side where necessary.
- Comes with a 3-year warranty on manufacturer defects and faults
- Gives a better grip and excellent controlling power
- Heavy-hitting
- Comes with useful extra accessories
- You can choose from the two styles (white and dark grey)
- You might have to replace the scuffing tip faster than you thought
- The shaft is exposed to warping
If you are operating on a tight budget and don’t know which pool cue to pick, you might as well go for the Viking Valhalla 2 Piece Pool Cue Stick.
You will be surprised to realize that this stick actually offers some amazing tips, its price notwithstanding.
In fact, the Viking brand has been around for over 50 years, and its line of cues has been reliable.
With this stick, you get the option to select between the seven available color options.
And whichever style you go for, their design is pretty unique, and they all feature a 13mm leather tip, which should last you a couple of games.
Any pool expert will tell you that this kind of tip is excellent at controlling the ball. So, as a beginner, that should be some good news, right?
Also, the shaft of this billiard is constructed out of the solid Canadian maple wood, guaranteeing you durability and reliability.
And to ensure the joints remain locked securely, they feature a metal threading, which does a quite impressive job.
The cue also comes with an Irish linen Wrap giving you a comfortable hold
This, together with the shaft wood, will give you hard strikes.
Also, since the cue comes in two pieces, it’s easy to carry around and store as it takes less space and isn’t that heavy.
You can even customize the weight choosing between 18-21 ounces.
- Comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty against warping
- Available in seven cool colors
- Offers a constant and powerful hit
- Easy to store and transport
- Adjustable butt weight
- You will have to prep the tips
- This cue isn’t an excellent pick for breaking.
The Viper Sinister 58″ 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue is an excellent combination of simplicity and great design.
The stick comes with amazing features that guarantee top-notch performance, even at affordable pricing.
First, this cue is famously praised for its sturdiness thanks to the high-quality Canadian Maple wood used for its shaft construction.
And like other sticks in this list, this billiard comes carefully designed with a 2-piece cue, which makes it easy for you to store and carry with you wherever you go.
Since it doesn’t take up much space, you can slide it in your backpack, and you will be good to go.
That’s not all. The Viper Sinister 58″ proudly displays stainless steel joints, making it easy for you to achieve consistency as you play.
The removable scuffer makes it even better as it offers convenience.
The tip of this device is a 13mm, and it’s made of the Le pro Leather of decent quality.
It also comes with an Irish linen wrap to give you a comfortable hold, though some players prefer no wrap.
Lastly, the fact that this cue’s weight is customizable makes it more appealing. You get to choose between an 18-ounce butt.
- Offers easy storage and transportation
- The stainless steel joints offer players consistency
- Excellent quality Canadian maple wood construction
- Value for money, decent quality
- Doesn’t come with extras
- The tip isn’t that durable.
Do you have an immense love for pool games and would like to purchase your cue?
Are you tight on budget?
If your answers are yes, the Imperial Officially Licensed NFL Merchandise: 57″ Billiard could be the solution you have been waiting for.
This cue is incredibly affordable and features some of the most amazing features you can ever find within its rank.
The stick’s design is also pretty simple, and it comes in multiple styles, 13 colors to be precise.
So, you get the chance to choose according to preference.
Another thing that I love about this pool cue is the ability to separate into two pieces, making it easy to carry around and store, even with limited space.
Also, you don’t have to worry about warping as the stick is made of a seasoned maple core, making it warp-resistant, while at the same time guaranteeing durability.
The tip of this stick is made of leather, giving better control over every shot.
I love the beautiful design of this cue and the affordable pricing that doesn’t compromise efficiency.
- Eye-catching design
- Comes in many styles
- Very smooth
- Value for money
- Perfect weight
- Few complaints of cracked-on-arrival cues, but you get a replacement.
- Offers only 90 days warranty.
Here comes another decent quality and affordable McDermott Lucky L4 Pool Cue suitable for on-budget beginners.
This billiard is a two-piece cue, meaning you can separate it for easy storage and convenient transportation.
It also offers weight customization to users according to needs and preferences. You can always select between 18-21 ounces.
The honey stain style of this McDermott Lucky stick gives it an attractive classic appearance, appealing to both young and older players.
The only disadvantage is that it isn’t advisable to use this cue for breaking as it’s only meant for playing.
If you do and it happens to cause premature warping or other sorts of damage, you will void the warranty.
Talking of warranty, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty on defects. So you can comfortably enjoy those years learning the game without worrying.
It’s, however, a little challenging to put together thanks to the wooden joints. But once you figure that out, playing will be smooth.
- Value for money
- Excellent weight for a beginner
- Smooth and effective
- 2-pieces, easy to store and carry
- Difficult to put together
- Might come in a slightly different shade
The Viper Underground 2-Piece cue is 58-inches, and it’s constructed from the standard Canadian Maple wood, which guarantees users decent durability and reliability.
The first thing that you will probably notice about this stick is its beautiful graphic designs, strategically placed at the bottom.
I particularly love the stainless steel rings at its sleeve and forearm, giving it a unique contemporary appearance.
Most young players would love this, plus older players with a sense of digitalization too.
Also, the stainless steel joints of this cue ensure you achieve consistency as you play, something which is immensely rewarding for beginner players.
And like most cues in today’s list, you get to choose between 18-21 ounces butt if you don’t know which weight suits you, you can try out several before settling for one.
The tip is made of Le Pro leather, and it measures 13mm, making striking much easier.
- Features a rubber bumper and a faux leather wrap
- Displays beautiful graphics
- Adjustable weights
- Lightweight stainless steel joints
- Portable
- The tip isn’t that strong.
- You might have to adjust the rubber bumper from time to time.
Last but not least, is the Cuetec Warrior Series 58″ Billiard/Pool Cue.
This cue comes with a deluxe hard brown leather tip, but if you don’t like it, you can always replace it with a tiger tip or according to preference.
Made out of the standard Canadian Maple Wood, the shaft is of decent quality and will serve you for a long time before you decide to upgrade.
Also, the composite coating that it comes with ensures it remains straight even after prolonged use.
Plus, maintaining its dent and resistant to scratch. This also ensures the cue gives you ample cleaning time.
And although the fiberglass shaft offers players a smooth stroke, some players prefer a natural wood shaft, but since it’s well made and offers excellent shots, this is easily overlooked.
A closer look at the stick reveals low-quality paintwork, but the stick remains excellent, which is what matters.
- Offers consistent shots
- Scratch-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Great pricing
- The weight isn’t adjustable
- No extra accessories
Our list couldn’t be complete without a mention of the Sneaky Pete cue.
And although this stick is made to mimic low quality house cues, it’s made to the highest standard, which places it above its competitors within the same rank.
The cue comes with a 13mm deluxe leather tip for a controlled strike.
It also features a 15.5 super slim taper, which happens to be the longest in today’s market.
And that’s not all.
This Sneaky Pete cue is thoughtfully constructed with a top-quality composite coating to ensure it maintains its straightness, even after regular use.
This technology also makes this stick scratch resistant and very easy to clean. You will also see no trace of a dent on it.
The shaft is made of the standard Canadian maple wood, which, when combined with all these other features, gives this cue a competitive edge.
- Can withstand frequent playing thanks to the fiberglass coating
- Unique 3/8*15 joint size.
- Available in various weights
- Comes scuffed and shaped
- Traditional looking
- No warping
- The tip is a little dry.
- Some packages appear used, so be careful when you receive yours.
Is Buying A Pool Cue Under $100 Worth It?
The current market is filled with various pool cues ranging from as little as$20 to as high as $2000 and beyond.
Therefore, it shouldn’t be surprising if you wonder if buying a pool cue under $100 will be worth it.
The answer is yes and no, depending on various factors.
You see, when picking a pool cue, you first have to consider your experience as a player, the skills you’ve already acquired, and your personal preferences. Not forgetting your sense of style.
So, if you’re a beginner, for instance, you would want to get a decent quality cue, which should be good enough to help you get started.
However, as you advance in both skills and experience, you would also want to upgrade to a stick that offers you convenience and features enhanced playability.
That’s why, as a beginner, it would be worth it if you go for an under $100 pool cue.
In fact, most experts insist that it would be a total waste of money if you purchase a high-end cue, before mastering the necessary techniques to maximize its use.
Although expensive cues appear sophisticated, they really aren’t going to shoot way better than the cheap sticks. The energy you require for a perfect shot is almost the same.
Also, it should be satisfying to know that most budget pool cues possess literally half of the professional sticks’ amazing features. But everyone must start somewhere, right?
Besides, you will genuinely begin to appreciate the services of a professional cue after you’re way past the beginner level. So, as for now, enjoy the excellent bargain of budget cuts.
It won’t be long before you’re “forced” to spend more on middle-range sticks and finally professional cues. One step at a time. No need for overstretching and missing out on the fun!
Also, if your focus is to purchase multiple cue sticks for your use, be it at home, office, or club, you might want to consider purchasing budget sticks.
Yes, you might have to purchase the case and other extra accessories separately, but it will be worth it compared to purchasing one high-end stick, which won’t meet your needs.
Things to Consider for Beginners When Buying A Pool Cue for The First Time
Material
The material used in the construction of a cue stick significantly determines the kind of shot made.
For example, if you want to achieve a compelling shot, the harder the material used, the advantageous it will be for you.
It’s mainly for this reason that most beginner pool cue sticks out there, including the ones mentioned in this article, use the solid Canadian maple wood as a standard material.
It gives you not only greater control, but also the much-needed power.
So, as a beginner, it’s advisable to go for maple wood cues. But, if you want to try out new materials, you can always inquire from your peers about the kinds of materials they are using.
With time, you will realize that some advanced players prefer lighter cues, therefore preferring sticks made up of blended materials, like fiberglass and maple, among others.
This explains why such sticks tend to be more expensive.
Size and Weight
When it comes to pool cue sticks, there is no standard size and weight for players. Most of the time, this boils down to one’s preference.
Contrary to common assumptions that professional players should use bigger and heavier cues, some confess to preferring lighter sticks over heavier ones.
At this stage, they are already sure about what they want, have a constant way of playing, and know how to apply natural force to a shot.
As a beginner, however, you can choose between 18-20 ounces in terms of weight and 57-59 inches (size).
This explains why most beginner pool cues in this article come with a constant length but offer various weight options.
Joints
A good cue joint should offer stability. And that means an excellent grip on the wood and a perfect match when screwed up.
Also, after you screw them together, ensure there is no amount of light visible around the shaft and the butt, with the pin perfectly in the middle.
If you happen to see any light, it means the wood wasn’t appropriately shaped, putting it under stress, rather than rest.
Remember, a high-quality joint design means all the parts can easily fit together and snugly.
Wrap
Having interacted with many pool beginners, I realized that most of them prefer leather wraps. But one thing they don’t understand is that these wraps are a bit thick, giving them a weak grip as they play.
Remember, leather tends to promote sweating and adds to the cost of your cue. So, if you’re planning on spending $100 or less, it shouldn’t be on your list.
In fact, I feel most beginners don’t know which wraps are better. From experience, we advise you to get the Irish linen wraps, which are the most popular, even in our reviews.
It doesn’t trigger sweating, and it gives you a middle-grip.
Is It An One-Piece Or Two-Piece?
Currently, the two-piece cue is the one used to set-up a one-piece stick. Rarely can you find stores selling only one-piece sticks. Why? Two-pieces are easy to store and transport.
And the fact that they are mainly made of decent quality materials, and there are more choices to select from. You also get to choose whether you need a wrap or not.
However, if you purchase a two-piece cue that doesn’t come with a carrying case, you will have to purchase one as it will be frustrating to carry around.
Extra Accessories
If you’re on a budget, it means every buck matters. The best thing you can do is go for a pool cue kit with additional accessories. This should include carrying bags, shapers, chalk, and a cleaning cloth.
Anything to help you save up some cash should be welcome!
Warranty
The pool cue warranty mainly depends on the pricing of the cue. Therefore, if you’re purchasing an under $100 cue, a warranty of around 12-24 months makes sense.
The general rule is that the expensive the pool cue, the more extended the warranty you should get. Most high-end cues come with a lifetime warranty on manufacturer defects.
FAQs About the Best Beginner Pool Cues Under 100
What Weight Pool Cue Do Pros Use?
There is no one-fit-all cue weight for all pros. Just like all individuals are different, there are cues specially made for each of their needs.
Therefore, the best thing to do is shop around and settle for a weight you like.
That said, according to most discussions on various online platforms, most pros seem to prefer the 19oz cue.
Reason? It’s the most comfortable weight for the majority of the players, allowing them to break easily. They say it’s much better to accelerate with a lighter stick.
What’s the Best Pool Cue for A Beginner?
We highly recommend the Viper Revolution Spider 58″ 2-Piece Billiard and the RAGE Heavy Hitter Jump Break Cue as our first and second top choices, respectively.
They both come in a two-piece design, don’t wear out prematurely, and give a firm hold.
Conclusion
The pricing of the pool cues largely depends on your preference and the features you’re searching for.
But for an under $100 stick, it’s logical to lower your expectations and focus on the standard features that will help you start.
Remember, there is always room for upgrading as you advance your skills.
The cues, as mentioned earlier, are decent enough for beginner players in all aspects. Therefore, by the time you’re done going through the list, you should know which one to order.
Besides, there’s only a little performance difference between budget, middle-range, and high-end sticks. The shot you give is primarily dependent on your focusing power.
