Top Cue Brands: The Ultimate Guide for Pool Aficionados

When it comes to selecting the best pool cue, players often find themselves overwhelmed by the multitude of brands in the market, each promising precision, durability, and style. Among the top contenders are Predator, renowned for their cutting-edge technology and superior craftsmanship, and McDermott, celebrated for their exquisite designs and lifetime warranty. Players also gravitate towards Meucci cues, known for their meticulous construction and smooth playability. For those seeking the perfect cue to elevate their game, we've compiled a comprehensive list of the most reputable brands below.

Illustration of pool cue

Best brands of pool cue in 2025

Predator

Predator is renowned as one of the best producers of pool cues, known for their groundbreaking designs, high-quality materials, and exceptional performance. Since their introduction in the 1990s, Predator's patented low-deflection shafts have been the choice of touring professionals, enhancing the playing experience for all skill levels. The brand's commitment to innovation is evident in products like the Predator Revo shafts and the BK Rush break cues. With a strong focus on balance, precision, and weight, Predator cues offer a superior price-quality ratio, making them a favorite among billiard enthusiasts. The company's dedication to continuous improvement and innovation has solidified its position as a leader in the global pool cues market. For more details, visit the Predator official website.

McDermott

McDermott is a renowned brand in the pool cue industry, celebrated for its high-quality, handcrafted cues made in the USA. Founded in 1975, McDermott has established itself as the largest pool cue maker in the United States, with its products sold in 65 countries and accounting for about 20% of its sales through exports. The company offers a wide range of cues, from the affordable Star and Lucky lines priced between $59 and $160, to the premium cues that can cost up to $4,000, featuring intricate inlays and exotic materials. Despite economic challenges, McDermott has posted double-digit sales increases and maintained strong financial performance, with a notable 10% increase in the first quarter of 2009. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, McDermott continues to cater to pool enthusiasts worldwide. For more information, visit the McDermott pool cue overview.

Meucci

Meucci Cues, established in 1975, is renowned for pushing the boundaries of pool cue design, setting new standards of performance and craftsmanship. Founded by Bob Meucci, the company has been a trailblazer in the industry, particularly dominating professional play in the 1970s and 1980s. Meucci Cues are celebrated for their aesthetic and technological advancements, using exotic woods, premium metals, and cutting-edge technologies. The brand continues to innovate, offering a wide range of pool cue designs and customization options to cater to individual tastes. With a commitment to quality and a rich heritage, Meucci Cues remain a standard of the industry. For more information about their innovative pool cues, visit the official Meucci Cues website.

Lucasi

Lucasi is renowned as one of the top producers of pool cues, offering high-performance products with advanced features such as Uni-Loc, Quick Release, and Radial Pin joints, along with Tiger Everest tips and XTC Ferrules. Their cues are built with 100% hard rock maple shafts and Irish linen wraps, ensuring durability and precision. Lucasi cues come with a manufacturer's lifetime warranty against warping and defects, a testament to their quality. In the competitive pool cues market, Lucasi stands out alongside other leading brands like Predator Cues, McDermott Cues, and Schon Cues. With a strong market presence, Lucasi continues to innovate, such as with their Hybrid cues, which offer ultimate performance at a reasonable price.

Pechauer

Pechauer is renowned as one of the best producers of pool cues, with a commitment to total quality control that has been upheld for over 50 years since its founding in 1961. The company uses clear hard-rock curly/bird's eye maple and exotic woods, and all parts, including stainless steel joint screws and collars, are made in-house to ensure strict quality standards. Pechauer cues feature patented quick-release joints, 13mm leather tips, and custom 8-coat hand-sprayed finishes. Their Pro Series cues are hand-signed by Joseph Pechauer and offer customizable weights and stain colors. Limited edition cues are restricted to only 25 pieces, showcasing select exotic woods and intricate designs. For more details about their exquisite pool cues, visit their official website.

Viking

Viking Cue Manufacturing, LLC is a renowned producer of handcrafted pool cues, celebrating over 50 years of excellence since its founding in 1965. Known for their meticulous craftsmanship and strict quality control standards, Viking Cues are 100% made in the USA, ensuring top-notch performance and durability. Their innovative products, such as the eXactShot Pure Performance Shaft and the ViKORE American Performance Shaft, have set industry standards. Viking Cues come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and warpage, reflecting their commitment to quality. With a range of custom options and advanced technology, Viking continues to lead the market in pool cue manufacturing. For more information, visit their official website.

Schon

Schon, established in 1981 by Terry Romine Sr., is renowned for producing some of the world's most precise and beautiful pool cues, handcrafted in the USA using top-grade materials like exotic hardwoods such as tulip wood, bloodwood, and ebony. With a focus on hit, feel, and accuracy, Schon cues are favored by professional players like Shane Van Boening and Buddy Hall. The company maintains a small, dedicated team of five full-time craftsmen, ensuring each cue meets the highest standards of quality and precision. Schon offers six collections of masterfully handcrafted cues and interchangeable shafts, making them a standout in the pool cue industry. Despite their limited production, often going weeks without finishing any cues, Schon's commitment to quality has earned them a place among the top pool cue brands. Find more about their exquisite craft at their official website.

Joss

Joss Pool Cues, established in 1968 by Dan Janes, is renowned for its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality, making it a beacon of excellence in the billiards world. With a legacy spanning over five decades, Joss cues are handcrafted in the USA, employing superior materials and meticulous attention to detail. The brand has garnered admiration from BCA Hall of Famers and has been featured in the iconic film "The Color of Money." Joss Cues continues to be a family-owned and operated business, with Stephen Janes contributing to innovative advances in cue making. Their cues are highly regarded for their exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal. Learn more about their rich legacy by visiting the craftsmanship and legacy of Joss Pool Cues.

Balabushka

Balabushka is one of the most renowned brands in the pool cue industry, celebrated for its high-quality and traditionally crafted cues. These cues, often featuring Irish Linen Wraps, 13mm Pro Taper Shafts, and Birdseye Maple Forearms, are highly sought after by both players and collectors. Re-introduced in the 1980s with the permission of George Balabushka's family, these cues continue to embody the craftsmanship and excellence of the legendary cue builder. Each Balabushka cue is adorned with a replica George Balabushka Signature and is known for its perfect balance, top performance, and optimal control. With models available in various price ranges, such as $600 to $1,750, Balabushka cues are a staple in the billiards community. For more information on these exceptional cues, visit their official website.

Players

Players Cues is renowned for its high-quality construction and stylish designs, making it one of the best-selling pool cue brands in America. Known for their well-balanced and sleek cues, Players Cues offers exceptional performance with a focus on visual appeal and long-lasting craftsmanship. Their cues, such as the Graphic Series and Classic Series, are popular among players due to their stylish finishes and durable materials. With a wide range of products, including the G4145 Graphic Pool Cue and C-811 Classic Series Pool Cue, Players Cues caters to various player preferences. The brand's commitment to quality is reflected in its lifetime warranty and professional-grade materials. Discover more about their exceptional offerings on the Players Cues collection.