Multi-Game Tables – Are Foosball Combo Tables Worth It?
How multi-game tables combining foosball, air hockey, pool and table tennis compare with a dedicated foosball table, and who they suit.
A multi-game table puts foosball, air hockey, pool, table tennis and more into one piece of furniture. It’s an appealing idea when you’re short on space or can’t decide which game to buy. But is it better than one good foosball table? Here’s what you need to know.
Common multi-game table types
| Type | Games | How it switches | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 in 1 | Foosball and air hockey | Flip top or rotating table | Kids, small rooms |
| 3 in 1 | Foosball, air hockey, pool | Removable tops | Families wanting variety |
| 4 in 1 and up | Adds table tennis, bowling, shuffleboard, chess or cards | Stacked tops or rotating table | Playrooms, holiday houses |
| Pool table with dining top | Pool, plus a dining or table tennis top | Lift-off top | Adults, entertaining areas |
How multi-game tables work
There are two main designs:
- Removable or stacked tops. The base is usually a foosball cabinet. You lay a pool or air hockey top over it, or add a table tennis top on top of that. Swapping games means lifting the top off, so it’s easiest with two people.
- Rotating or flip tables. The table flips on a central pivot, with a different game on each side. Switching takes seconds, but the pivot adds weight and can loosen over time.
The pros
- Saves space. One table instead of two or three is the main reason people buy them.
- Variety. Kids who get bored of one game can switch to another.
- Value. Several games cost less together than buying each one separately.
- Something for everyone. Not everyone loves foosball, but most people will play one of the games.
The cons
- Every game is a compromise. To fit several games into one frame, manufacturers use lighter cabinets, shorter rods and smaller playfields. Foosball on a multi-game table rarely plays as well as on a dedicated table of the same price.
- Air hockey often has no fan. Cheap combo tables sometimes skip the electric blower, so the puck drags instead of gliding. Check for “electric fan” or “air-powered” in the description.
- Pool is usually a mini version. Pool tops on combo tables are small, with lightweight balls and short cues. Fine for kids, frustrating for adults.
- Swapping gets old. If changing games takes a few minutes and two people, most families end up leaving one game on top permanently.
- More parts to lose and break. Pucks, pushers, cues, balls and tops all need storing somewhere.
Multi-game vs a dedicated foosball table
| Multi-game table | Dedicated foosball table | |
|---|---|---|
| Foosball quality | Basic | Good to excellent, depending on price |
| Stability | Usually light | Heavier and steadier |
| Lifespan | Suits casual use | Many years of regular play |
| Space | One footprint, several games | One footprint, one game |
| Best for | Kids, variety, small rooms | Anyone who mainly wants foosball |
If you already know foosball is the favourite, a dedicated table is the better buy. Our types of foosball tables guide explains what you get at each price.
What to look for in a multi-game table
- An electric air hockey fan. Without one, air hockey barely works.
- Steel foosball rods. Chrome-plated steel rods are stronger and smoother than plastic.
- Tops that fit snugly. Loose tops rattle and slide during play.
- A sturdy frame and levelling feet. A heavier frame stays put, and adjustable feet let you level it on uneven floors.
- Storage for accessories. Some tables include racks or drawers for cues, pushers and balls.
- Size. Most combo tables are about the size of a 4ft foosball table. Allow about a metre on each side for players, or more for pool cues.
Who a multi-game table suits
- Families with young kids who want variety more than top performance
- Holiday houses and Airbnbs, where guests enjoy having options
- Small rumpus rooms or garages without space for several tables
- Gifts, when you’re not sure which game someone will love
For kids who mainly want foosball, see our guide to mini and tabletop foosball tables. If you’re comparing cheap options from department stores, our guide to Kmart, Big W and Rebel foosball tables covers what to expect.
The verdict
Multi-game tables are great fun for kids and casual players, and they make sense when space is tight. But they trade quality for variety. If foosball is the game your household will play most, put the money into one good foosball table instead.
Ready to compare dedicated tables? Browse our foosball tables guide or see which foosball table brands suit you.