Pool Cue Tip Size: What Do The Pros Use?

02 May, 2025

What secret weapon do the world's best pool, billiard, and snooker players wield to achieve seemingly impossible shots? The answer lies not just in skill, but in the subtle yet significant world of cue tips.

Emulating the pros is a well-trodden path to improvement in the world of cue sports. Aspiring players often study the techniques of their idols, striving to replicate their every move. This extends beyond the mechanics of the stroke, encompassing the equipment choices that these professionals swear by. One of the most crucial aspects of this equipment is the cue tip.

The quest to understand professional cue tip selection is a fascinating one, leading to a deep dive into the preferences of the game's elite. The choice of a cue tip isn't a superficial one; it significantly impacts a player's ability to control the cue ball, generate spin, and ultimately, win matches. The type of cue tip used is not merely a matter of aesthetics; its a strategic decision with tangible effects on performance. A player's choice of cue tip is often a highly personalized one, reflecting their individual playing style and the specific demands of their game. Choosing the right tip can mean the difference between a missed shot and a winning run.

Here's a look at some of the most influential figures in the world of pool, billiards, and snooker and their preferences related to their cue tips. Note that player preferences are dynamic and can change based on sponsorships, personal preference, and evolution in their game.

Player	Sport	Tip Size (mm)	Tip Hardness	Notable Tip Brands	Additional Notes
Shane Van Boening	Pool	13 mm	Medium	Kamui, Predator	Known for his power and precision, he often utilizes a tip that allows for maximum cue ball control.
Efren Reyes	Pool	13 mm	Soft	Kamui	The "Magician" has been seen using various tip sizes and hardness, reflecting his adaptability and finesse.
Judd Trump	Snooker	9.5mm 10 mm	Medium/Hard	Triangle, Elkmaster	Trump's aggressive style of play is often associated with a harder tip for cue ball control.
Mark Selby	Snooker	9.5mm 10 mm	Medium	Elkmaster	Selby is known for his tactical prowess.
Ronnie O'Sullivan	Snooker	9.5mm 10 mm	Medium	Elkmaster	O'Sullivan's phenomenal cue ball control necessitates careful tip selection.
Mika Immonen	Pool	13 mm	Medium	Kamui	Uses Kamui, known for its layered construction and consistent performance.

For more comprehensive information on professional pool players, you can visit the AZ Billiards website, which has a wealth of information and up-to-date details.

The journey to finding the ideal cue tip is a highly personalized one. The best tip for a player is the one that complements their technique and play style, enabling them to consistently execute their shots with precision and confidence. The weight of the cue tip, typically within a range of 19 to 19.5 ounces, contributes to the overall balance and feel of the cue, influencing stroke control and power transfer. Different sizes cater to varied playing styles, with the 13 mm tip being the most popular choice among pool players. As noted, a lot of professional players use 12.25mm tips. Others opt for a 12mm or a 14mm tip. The choice of tip size impacts the surface area available for contact with the cue ball. Some shaft manufacturers have moved to other sizes in recent years.

When it comes to cue tip hardness, the options generally range from soft to hard. The material used to manufacture the tip, usually leather, is a primary determinant of its hardness. Each has its advantages. Softer tips are often favored for their increased grip and ability to impart spin on the cue ball. This makes them ideal for players who prioritize finesse and control over raw power. These tips are generally more forgiving, allowing for slight inaccuracies in the stroke. Harder tips, on the other hand, are preferred by players seeking greater power and more direct cue ball response. Harder tips produce less "squirt" (the deflection of the cue ball away from the line of aim) and are often used on break cues. Pros often use soft tips for better control and generally have a break stick with a hard tip for breaking.

One of the crucial factors influencing cue tip selection is the individual's playing style. For players with a more aggressive approach, a harder tip might be preferred for maximum power and cue ball control. Conversely, players who favor finesse and spin may opt for a softer tip, allowing them to execute intricate shots with greater ease. These tips offer a good balance between spin and power, allowing pros to execute a wide range of shots effectively, from powerful breaks to controlled finesse shots with spin.

The range of cue tip sizes available in the market offers a level of customization to suit diverse preferences. Generally, professionals lean toward smaller cue tips for enhanced precision and finesse. Tips are available in sizes such as 11.75 mm, 12.5 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, and 14 mm. The most popular shaft size today is 13mm.

The choice of cue tip is a crucial consideration in achieving success in pool, billiards, and snooker. Several factors come into play when a professional player selects a cue tip, including the player's style, the type of shot, and the desired cue ball reaction. Generally, professionals prefer smaller cue tips for better precision and finesse. Understanding these elements can help a player find the perfect cue tip and advance their game.

As a general rule, the best approach is to begin with a tip of average hardness and then adjust according to personal preferences. The most effective way to find your ideal cue tip is through experimentation and experience. Ultimately, theres no magic bullet, no single best cue tip that universally suits all players. It's a matter of finding what works best for you. It's not like 90% of the top pros are all using a certain shaft diameter. They use a ton of different brands and they change occasionally, both for performance reasons and because of sponsorship deals.

Ultimately, the quest for the perfect cue tip mirrors the larger pursuit of mastery in cue sports. By understanding the nuances of cue tip selection, players can gain a significant edge, improving their shot-making abilities and increasing their chances of success. This is a journey of personal discovery, where the ultimate goal is to find the tools that transform potential into performance.

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