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Air hockey is one of those timeless games that turns any dull afternoon into a competitive showdown. It’s fast, noisy in a good way, and perfect for players of almost any age. Whether you want a compact tabletop version for a small flat or a full-size arcade-style table to anchor a games room, air hockey delivers instant fun. Think of it like mini hockey on a cloud of air — smooth, quick, and endlessly replayable.
If you’re shopping in the UK, a handful of stores stand out for selection, price and convenience. Menkind, Argos, Amazon UK, Smyths Toys, The Range and eBay are reliable places to start. Each option suits different shoppers: Menkind tends to specialise in novelty and themed models, Argos hits the mainstream with family-friendly ranges, Amazon offers breadth and fast delivery, Smyths focuses on toys and younger audiences, The Range supplies budget leisure items, and eBay is a good avenue for bargains and second-hand finds.
Menkind is well known for quirky gifts and gadgety entertainment, and they do a neat job when it comes to air hockey. Expect colourful designs, neon lighting, and sometimes licensed or pop-culture themed tables. If you want a Pac-Man vibe or a neon-lit unit that’s as much décor as game, Menkind is worth a browse.
Argos has a broad range of household leisure products, including tabletop and mid-size air hockey tables. Their range typically includes budget entry-level models and mid-range tables with some extras like electronic scoring and LED lights. Argos is handy for quick collection and accessible price points if you’re buying for a family room.
Amazon is ideal if you want the widest selection and lots of customer feedback. From compact tabletop sets to full-size arcade machines, you’ll find options across every price bracket. The abundance of user reviews also helps spot common issues like noisy blowers or flimsy rails before you buy.
Smyths is a go-to for kids’ games and often stocks smaller or junior air hockey tables geared toward younger players. Expect bright plastic designs, lightweight construction, and lower price tags — perfect for a children’s playroom but not always suitable for intense adult matches.
The Range occasionally lists leisure tables including air hockey. Their appeal is in affordable options for intermittent play or casual users who want something affordable to liven up a spare room without breaking the bank.
eBay is an excellent spot to find second-hand arcade tables, discontinued models or heavily discounted crates. If you’re willing to check condition carefully and possibly arrange collection, you can score great value — and sometimes even rare retro arcade-style air hockey machines.
Menkind selection tends to mix themed aesthetics with practical play features. Three models that often appear in Menkind’s lineup exemplify what to expect: a compact Instant Air Hockey for casual use, a Winning Neon Air Hockey Table that brings the glow, and a Pac-Man Arcade Air Hockey unit for retro fans.
The Instant Air Hockey model is aimed at people who want immediate action with minimal fuss. These tabletop units are small enough to set on a dining table or coffee table and typically measure around 40 inches across or less. They’re perfect for impromptu matches and require little storage space when not in use.
A Winning Neon Air Hockey Table adds atmosphere with illuminated trims and bold styling. These mid-size tables often have electronic scoring, sound effects and bright LED strips that make late-night matches feel like a neon-lit mini arena. Expect tables in the neighborhood of 60 to 72 inches long for a lively, family-friendly experience.
The Pac-Man Arcade Air Hockey merges classic arcade styling with the air hockey format. These tables are as much collectors’ pieces as they are game boards, often showcasing iconic artwork and neon accents. If you’re decorating a game room and want a conversation starter, a themed arcade-style table adds serious character.
Choosing the right table comes down to space, intended users and how serious your gameplay will be. Ask yourself: Are you buying for kids, parties, or competitive single-elimination nights? Your answer will steer you toward tabletop, mid-size or full-size tables.
Always measure the room before ordering. A full-size table can be around 84 inches long and 48 inches wide, and you’ll want at least 3 to 4 feet of clearance on each side for players to move. For small flats, a tabletop unit of 36 to 40 inches can fit on a table and be put away after use.
The play surface and blower quality dictate how well the puck glides. Look for tables with uniform perforations and a blower rated to provide even air across the surface. If the surface is bumpy or the blower weak, puck movement becomes inconsistent and frustrating.
Build quality varies widely. Lightweight plastic tables are great for kids and portability but can flex under force. MDF and engineered wood offer sturdiness at moderate prices, while heavier hardwood or metal-framed units are the most durable and suited for heavy adult use. Think about how rough the play will be and who will use the table.
Electronic scoring, LED lighting, built-in music and power-saving blowers are common extras. Electronic scoreboards make matches feel official, while LEDs add atmosphere. Remember that extra electronics can mean higher price and slightly more maintenance, so prioritise what matters most to you.
Air hockey tables span a wide price spectrum. Budget models start under £50 and are typically very small tabletop units. Mid-range tables, which are great for families, usually fall between £100 and £400 and offer better build and electronics. Premium arcade-style and full-size tables can cost £500 to over £1,000 if they use professional-grade materials and licensed branding.
If your primary goal is casual play or a temporary solution for kids, budget options under £100 will do the trick. They’re lightweight and portable, but expect plastic parts and a blower that’s less powerful than higher-tier models.
In the £150 to £400 bracket you’ll find a solid balance of durability and features. These tables often include electronic scoring, better blowers and sturdier construction. For a home games room used regularly by friends and family, this is the most practical choice.
Premium tables, especially full-size arcade units, are heavier, built from better materials, and often come with licensed artwork or advanced features. If you want an authentic arcade feel and long-term investment, expect to spend several hundred pounds or more.
A few small accessories can make a big difference in enjoyment and longevity. Consider spare pucks and strikers, a quality table cover, replacement blowers and anti-scratch surface treatments to keep your table looking and playing great.
Spare pucks and multiple strikers are cheap insurance. Kids lose pucks easily and intense play can wear down striker edges. Having a couple of extra sets on hand keeps the game flowing and avoids abrupt pauses to hunt for lost pieces.
Blowers can fail over time, and having an easy replacement route is useful. When buying, check whether replacement blowers and electronic scoreboards are available for the model — that can extend a table’s usable life significantly.
A waterproof cover protects a tabletop unit from spills and dust, and a soft mat under the legs helps avoid floor scratches. These low-cost items preserve resale value and reduce maintenance.
Regular cleaning and simple checks keep an air hockey table performing at its best. Use a soft cloth to wipe the surface, vacuum the blower intake occasionally and keep pucks and strikers free of grit. Treat the table like a musical instrument; small regular care pays dividends in smooth play.
A mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth will keep the surface slick. Avoid harsh chemicals that might degrade the playing surface. Check holes for clogging and clear them gently if dust gathers.
Blowers can get noisy if filters block or bearings wear. Regularly inspect and, if the design allows, replace filters. If the blower becomes excessively loud, a compatible replacement can restore quiet, steady airflow.
If price is a priority, keep an eye on seasonal sales at Argos or Amazon and flash sales at Menkind for themed models. eBay and local marketplaces are excellent for used tables — you can often pick up arcade-style units at a fraction of new prices, though you’ll need to inspect condition and possibly transport the table yourself.
Major sales like Black Friday, Boxing Week and New Year clearances often have the best discounts. Clearance lines and end-of-season offers are also worth watching if you’re not in a rush.
When buying used, test the blower, look for surface cracks or warping, check electronic scoreboards, and confirm the rails and legs are stable. If possible, play a quick rally to identify noisy blowers or uneven air distribution before committing.
Air hockey is generally safe but it's still a fast-moving game. Keep small children supervised to avoid losing pucks, and ensure players wear no loose accessories that could catch on rails. Secure heavy full-size tables in a stable position and check legs periodically for tightness.
Tabletop models are great for toddlers and kids under close supervision, while full-size units suit older kids and adults. Always supervise younger players to prevent mishaps and to make sure play stays friendly and competitive.
At the end of the day, the best air hockey table balances your space, budget and how often you’ll play. If you want flashy lights and arcade drama, Menkind themed models or arcade-style units will thrill. For steady family use, a mid-range table from Argos or Amazon often delivers the best mix of durability and value. And if you love a bargain hunt, eBay can land you a treasure with a little patience.
Happy shopping — and remember, the best table is the one that gets played the most.
| Air Hockey | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Instant Air Hockey | £ 13,- | |
| Winning Neon Air Hockey Table | £ 25,- |
