If you want to enjoy playing dart without the worry of damaging your wall, you need to invest in a dartboard backboard.
You see, contrary to common assumptions that those ugly marks on the wall indicate a beginner dart player, even pros experience missus from time to time.
So, the backboards are a savior to dart players in many ways. And the best part is that they come in various sizes and shapes to suit diverse needs.
However, you should know how to make a perfect choice, as the process can be confusing for starters.
And that’s why we are here for you.
To provide you with a list of the best five dartboard backboards, basing our evaluation on the quality, pricing and, of course, the provided features.
Navigation Table
Best Dart board Backboards In 2021
If you have been thinking of foam as a material that’s only good for the production of mattresses, we have some “bad” news for you: you have been wrong all along!
And the Viper Defender III is here is to prove you otherwise.
This dart backboard is made up of 1 –inch thick, high-quality v-foam, which runs on 8.2sqft to offer your wall the much-needed protection as you have fun playing.
So, you see, even if you miss your target by a mile or so, there is no chance of hitting the wall.
No worry equals to high concentration, which leads to high yielding results.
And the fact that foam tends to be lighter than other materials makes setting up pretty easy, especially on fragile walls such as ones made of plaster.
When you receive the package, you will notice that the backboard is thoughtfully divided into six pieces, making it easy for you to assemble and disassemble without using any tools or needing help.
The best part is that this backboard makes board mounting so blissful, and there is no restriction on the type of dartboard it can accommodate. Any board is welcome.
One downside, though: if you love playing outdoors, you might have to source out for a different backboard, because the foam doesn’t do so well outdoors.
Exposure to extreme environmental factors such as sun, wind, humidity, etc. will dry it out, leading to flaking.
- It covers a large surface
- Thick for maximum protection
- Light for easy set-up process
- Easy to store
- Most suitable for indoor use
- Doesn’t come cheap
Professionalism comes with a touch of class. And the Dart-Stop 29 inch Professional Dart Board Backboard, offers precisely that.
The backboard is not only stylish but also uniquely attractive at first sight.
First, black has always been classic, but so is burgundy and tan.
So, whichever color you settle for will still be amazing. The octagonal shape completes the look.
I love the fact that it’s handmade. And not in any other part of the world, but the US.
The materials used are of the highest quality to guarantee you durability and reliability. Value for money is what you get.
When you receive the package, you will notice that the backing is made of a ¾-inch thick wood, complete with a ¼-inch plush lining.
It really leaves no room for dart holes.
One off-thing though, some clients say that it doesn’t really accommodate all dartboards as claimed by the manufacture.
More specifically, if yours is an electronic dart, it’s advisable to get a different backboard. The same case applies to cabinet dartboards.
However, the fact that can readily and comfortably accommodate all other kinds of dartboards, ranging from the wooden, plastic to bristle and much more, makes it viable for out top-five choice.
- Potent construction
- Offers durability and reliability
- Comes in three colors
- Attractive professional design
- Accommodates most standard dartboards.
- Comes with wall mounting instructions
- Not an option for electronic dartboards.
Like the Dart-Stop 29 inch, the Dart-Stop 36 inch Professional Dart Board Backboard comes in three different colors (black, burgundy, and tan).
All the colors scream classy, and I love the fact that they’re timeless.
You will also love its attractive octagonal shape, just the same way you would the Dart-Stop 29 inch.
Typically, most features of this backboard are similar to that of the Dart-stop 29-inch, only that it’s a bit larger, which is advantageous to users.
The large size of this backboard promises to offer uncompromising protection, not only to your precious wall but also to the darts and, of course, the flooring.
It’s actually one of the largest dartboard backboards you can find in today’s market, measuring 35*36-inches.
This means, with it, you are guaranteed coverage from all angles. And that’s not all. The backboard comes comfortably, ready to accommodate almost all types of dartboards.
I particularly love that this unit comes with sturdy construction, which is evident from its ¾-inch thick wooden backing.
This complete with the extra outer fabric padding means you enjoy a thickness of around 1-inch, making it one of the thickest backboards in the marketplace.
Also, its woven outer fabric ensures the dart holes remain invisible for an attractive sight, no matter how powerful you play.
The installation process of this unit is simple, and you should be done within a few minutes.
Plus, the manufacturer includes all the necessary mounting tools, so you don’t have to spend extra cash.
You can install this backboard on any solid surface, including wooden, drywall or even concrete.
Lastly, all these amazing features come at a high price. So, be ready to dig deeper into your pockets.
But is sure is worth every penny. If you can afford it, go for it!
- Premium quality& craftsmanship
- Offers a large surface coverage
- The woven fabric doesn’t show any dart holes
- Comes with all necessary mounting hardware
- Easy to set-up
- Steel-reinforced mounting points
- Expensive
If we say that we aren’t mesmerized by this unit, we will be lying.
The Viper Championship Wood Framed Dartboard Backboard Set is simply a beauty: a feast for the eyes.
The board is made from MFD with a dark mahogany finish, giving it an attractive shine worthy of spending money. And that’s not all.
Also, the backing of this unit oozes durability, having been made of black felt, complete with a 1-inch thickness.
With it, you can be sure that there won’t be any dart holes getting to your walls.
I love the fact that this unit makes an easy fit for almost all dartboards. However, if you can stick to the wooden dartboard for optimal results.
Once you setup the backboard, your room is set to lit up, the gorgeous, sophisticated appearance it offers is one of its kind.
So, it typically doubles up as some sort of decoration.
The set comes with one dry-erase scoreboard, a dry-erase marker, a dart storage rack and a golden heavy duty strap hangers.
On the down-side, this unit is a bit heavier, so it’s advisable to avoid using it on thin walls.
- Gives a decent wall coverage
- Offers a sophisticated appearance
- Value for money
- Quick installation
- Comes with extra accessories
- A little bit heavier for thinner walls
- Some come without predrilled mounting holes.
Are your desires to get a quality dartboard backboard being restricted by budget?
Well, with the Jelinek Cork Dart Board Backer, that shouldn’t be a problem.
This unit might be simple, but it isn’t low quality.
If anything, I would rank it as quality within its range of pricing.
Yes, it’s made out of top-quality cork, which, although it doesn’t give it the best appearance, guarantees users superior protection.
Also, the fact that the material is high-density makes it even better.
And although some users note that this unit is a bit rigid, it offers a good percentage of flexibility, meaning darts can easily penetrate.
So you can be sure that your wall will be well protected.
Like other backboards in this list, the Jelinek Cork Dart Board Backer has a unique healing feature, meaning the dart holes aren’t visible for a neat appearance.
The measurement of this backboard is 24*36, which is large enough to provide decent surface coverage.
On the downside though, this package doesn’t come with any hardware, so you will have to purchase your own.
Also, the board seems slightly squeezed, leaving small sides’ room, which can be a bit problematic for beginner players.
I also wish it could come in different colors.
But that should stop you from trying it out, especially when your budget doesn’t give you much of a choice.
- Competitive pricing
- Decent construction from high-density cork
- Offers good coverage
- Can last long
- Doesn’t come with any extra accessory
- No color variety.
Benefits of Having A Dart board Backboard
Dartboard backboards are famously known for protecting floors, walls and the darts. But it that all?
Let’s find out with this list of some of the most significant benefits of having a dartboard backboard:
Protection
This is obviously the number one benefit of using these units. They will ensure your darts are well protected by landing on accommodative surfaces instead of the walls’ hardness.
Also, the backboards offer the much-needed protection on areas surrounding your dartboard.
You will realize its importance, especially if you love playing with steel tip darts. So, whenever you miss hitting the dartboard, your board will land on the unit, not your wall.
And that’s not all. Having the backboard in place guarantees protection for your dartboard even when not in use.
For instance, if your home walls tend to moisten up, the backboard will shut it out from accessing your board. This is one of the surest ways to ensure longevity for your investment
Part of Décor
Fixing your dartboard on the backboard is one of the quickest ways to give it an impressive appearance. The same case applies when you use the backboard within a specific space to convey a given image.
For example, when you get a backboard for your bar’s dartboards, there’s an essence of sophistication that lingers.
You can also use it as part of indoor décor in your game room, and much more. The best part is that they come in different shapes and sizes to suit your preference.
If money isn’t a problem, you can even have a combination of two or more in different models to lighten up the environment.
What to Look for While Purchasing A Dart Board Backboard
The Materials
This should be your number one consideration. Why? The type of material(s) used in the construction of the dartboard backboard primarily affects its performance and durability.
If you have been keenly following the above reviews, you must have noticed that the backboards are made from various materials. The most common ones being foam, wood, cork, and felt.
Out of these materials, felt is known to provide a professional appearance, while the foam is perfect for indoor gamers.
Corks are the most affordable, light and very easy to install and can comfortably fit any recreational room.
On the other hand, wood gives a classic/traditional appearance, and they require a great deal of maintenance as they aren’t easily remedied when damaged.
The Size
If you are determined to purchase a dartboard backboard, it’s only right if you go for the correct size. What good will it do you if it doesn’t fit your dartboard? A waste of money, and effort perhaps?
To ensure you get the best unit size for your dartboard, measure it as accurately as possible before you head out shopping/make that online order.
It would be better if the backboard is larger than anticipated than smaller, even by ¼-inch.
Also, remember some of these backboards only accommodate specific dartboards, be aware and cross-check the description details before making that final purchase.
The Backboard Shape
Yes, functionality is the most crucial factor when looking for a dartboard backboard, but the appearance also matters.
And that shouldn’t be difficult to pick as the current marketplace is already filled with various shapes of backboards. From rectangular, round, octagonal to hexagonal, it all runs down to your preference.
However, it might be rare to come across round and hexagonal backboards, as compared to rectangular or octagonal, but you can still find a few out there.
Besides, if you’re playing purely for fun and won’t restrict yourself too professionally- compliant backboards, you can go for the fancy shaped units.
The Pricing/Budget
The dartboard market isn’t very crowded. That means there aren’t many manufacturers, so no fierce competition.
This negatively affects the pricing, meaning the standard dartboard backboard will cost you between $50-80.
Now, this isn’t that cheap, right?
But you can still find some budget-friendly units of decent quality out there. The secret is to take your time researching and know precisely when to look and when.
If proper wall protection and durability are your main priorities, be ready to spend more.
Remember, you’re still the boss. Therefore, you get to decide how much you want to spend and on which unit.
The best way to ensure this is to come up with a budget range before-hand and stick to it.
The Mounting
Most beginner players overlook this factor. But any experienced guru will let you know how necessary mounting is.
First, all units aren’t easy to mount. The level of difficulty varies largely. Therefore, if you aren’t good at any DIY projects, go for the easiest to install backings. And that’s not all.
You should also ensure that apart from being easy to mount, the backboard can be installed correctly without rattling.
Also, there shouldn’t be any thumping noise on the wall when your dart gets nestled within.
Extras
Does the dartboard backboard come with any extras? Although most of the items reviewed in this article come with extras, a few don’t.
Some of the famously included accessories include darts, scoreboards, etc. They will make practicing easier, especially for on-budget buyers.
If you don’t have more money to spend on relevant accessories, this is an essential factor of consideration.
Conclusion
In this article, we have thoroughly reviewed the top-5 dartboard backboards in today’s market.
We have also examined some of the factors to consider as you go out shopping and the benefits of getting yourself a backboard.
Therefore, we hope that you already found what you love and are looking forward to your adventure. As you do so, remember to focus on the features and aligning them with your budget.
Happy shopping!