Darts is a fun game to play, whether you are alone or bonding with your friends and family. There are many different types of dart games that you can try playing. However, when it comes to darts or dartboard accessories, it is quite challenging to know exactly what you need for an ideal setup. As darts become a more popular game, technology and innovation are also changing it fast. That is why today, most dart setups are becoming more complex.
If you are thinking of adding a dartboard in your game room, you have two options on how to set it up. One is the traditional way of fixing or attaching the dartboard to the wall. The other way is to use a dartboard stand or buy a freestanding dartboard. But which option is the better choice? If you have the same question in mind, you’re in the right place. In this post, we are going to give you more information about the two types of dartboard setup and their advantages and disadvantages. This way, you will be able to pick which is the better choice for you.
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Attached to the Wall Dartboards
The main advantage that you can get when you fix a dartboard to the wall is stability. Since it is attached to the wall, you can ensure that it will not move when you play darts. This is a great dartboard setup choice if you have a dedicated game room in your home. It is for those who are sure where to place their dartboards.
However, there are drawbacks that come with dartboards that are attached to the wall. One is that it is quite difficult to set up. Fixing dartboards to the wall will require you to bore holes on the wall. This is not an option if you are just renting your property, as many landlords do not allow putting permanent holes on the walls of the house. In addition to that, the wall can also be damaged when you start playing, as the darts may hit the wall instead of the board.
Dart Backboards
For instance, if you want to fix your dartboard on the wall of your game room, there is a way to keep your wall protected from being damaged by the darts. That is by using dart backboards. In addition to protection, here are the other reasons for putting a dart backboard:
- Safety
Darts is a very enjoyable game. However, there are times when it can also cause injury, particularly if there are other people in the room. But when you have appropriate wall protectors, you can ensure that a dart that missed the dartboard will not hit dangerous levels or bounce off the wall and hit other people. The game is also quite challenging. Therefore, a dartboard backboard is a good idea.
- Aesthetics
In addition to preventing damage to walls, a dart backboard can also add an aesthetic value to your wall. They usually come in various shapes and designs, which can match any game room or space. You also have the option to make your own backboard to make it more personalized and match your room.
- Permanence
When the wall becomes damaged due to continued poking caused by missed darts, you have two options. One is to repair the wall, and the other is to move the board. However, both of these mean you won’t get to enjoy playing darts in the game room as you’ve expected, even temporarily. But when you use a dartboard backboard, you can ensure that your wall will remain in good condition and will save you from repair costs.
Freestanding Dartboards
If you are into playing darts but do not want to damage any walls in your home or game room, you might want to consider getting a freestanding dartboard. It is a style of dartboard that will enable you to play conveniently anywhere you want.
For a lot of people, setting up a dartboard can be challenging. But getting a freestanding dartboard can take away most of the hassle. The only thing that you need to consider when you get a freestanding dartboard is getting the correct measurements for you to play well. You only need to sort out the throw line distance, and you’re set to play.
Freestanding dartboards are great for a home bar, man cave, or gaming room. Not only do you get the dartboard, but there is also no need for you to set up a backboard to catch stray darts, as it is already included with the dartboard. And the best thing about freestanding dartboards is that you no longer have to drill holes in your wall.
Dartboard Stands
If you already have a dartboard but don’t want to drill holes on your wall, you can also use a dartboard stand to turn your board into a freestanding one. These are perfect for portable play, both at home or when traveling. These stands can give stability to dartboards. You can also set them to the correct height conveniently. It is also a great addition to your setup, even when you already have a permanent setup at home. Here are some of the advantages that you can get from using a dartboard stand:
- Portability
One of the main advantages of a dartboard stand is being portable. You can pack and take it anywhere you like. Many dartboard stands can also be assembled without any issue. You can just store it in the backseat or trunk of your car, and you have a portable wall if you want to play darts outdoors.
- Outside Play
With a dartboard stand, you will be able to enjoy playing darts anywhere, even outdoors. This is perfect for group learners, particularly in schools where darts are among the PE activities or sports. You just need to ensure that the stand has backing support when it is used outdoors to prevent damage.
- Practice Gear
Lastly, when you have a dartboard stand, you will be able to practice even when you are traveling. For instance, if you are in a hotel and you want to play darts, you can use a stand as you are not allowed to drill holes on hotel walls. This is a perfect accessory to have, especially for professional dart players.
Types of Freestanding Dartboards
When choosing a freestanding dartboard, there are a whole lot of different aspects to consider. Dartboards can vary dramatically. If you are looking into using a regulation-sized board, you can look for something that is 18” in total and has a 15.5” target area. If you are playing darts for fun, it is okay if you do not want to pay attention to the size. However, if you are practicing for a competition, you need to find something that is accurately sized.
Dartboards also come in various materials, ranging from paper and wood to vinyl. The most common among the different materials are wood and paper, especially for authentic dartboards. There is also the bristle board, which uses many closely packed fibers that close together when a dart is removed, which cover up any openings that are made.
There are also e-bristle boards, which feature digital elements. These boards allow players to keep scores, play against AI opponents, or try other game modes. Plastic electronic dartboards are also common freestanding dartboards. They feature tiny holes to grip the darts. These need soft tip darts, which can be weighed a bit differently. However, they are not as fast and are more prone to rebound.
Things to Consider Before Buying Freestanding Dartboards
When you compare dartboards that are attached to the wall and freestanding ones, you may find freestanding dartboards a better choice. However, before you buy one, there are some things you need to consider. Here they are:
- Electric Outlet: If you are eyeing a freestanding digital dartboard, you need to keep in mind that it needs a nearby electric outlet. This type of dartboard is commonly placed in a fixed location inside the game room.
- Enough Space: Also, getting a freestanding dartboard will require a bigger space. Since it is not attached to the wall, you need to allot a specific area for it in your game room. Therefore, if your game room is small, a freestanding dartboard may not be a good choice. Remember that when you play, you also need lots of space where you can move.
- Warranty: Of course, like when buying other items, it is also important to get a freestanding dartboard that comes with a warranty. This way, you can ensure its quality and reliability. This will also give you the option to return the board if you feel that it is not the right one for you.
Conclusion
Choosing between dartboards that are attached to the wall or freestanding depends on your personal preferences. If it is fine for you to drill holes on the wall as you like to have a more stable dartboard in your game room, then fixing one on your wall is a good idea. However, if you are not allowed to damage the wall or you like something that is portable, a freestanding dartboard is perfect for you. We hope this post helped you learn more about the different types of dartboards that you can choose from.