Best dartboard setup for your home

If you love darts, bringing the game into your own space can turn any evening into tournament night. But getting the best dartboard for home use isn’t just about buying the board – it’s about setting it up correctly for a safe, enjoyable, and authentic experience. Here’s your complete guide to building the perfect home darts setup, from choosing the right dartboard to ensuring proper dartboard distance and height.

1. Choosing the best dartboard for home

When picking a dartboard, quality matters – especially if you plan to play regularly. The best options are:

• Bristle Dartboards (Sisal): Professional standard, durable, and self-healing. Great for steel-tip darts.
  
• Electronic Dartboards: Perfect for casual play and soft-tip darts. They keep score automatically.
  
• Cabinet Sets: These include a board inside a wooden cabinet, protecting your walls and adding style to your space.
  

For most players who want an authentic feel, a high-quality bristle board is the best dartboard for home play.

2. Correct dartboard distance and height

One of the most important factors in a proper home darts setup is using official measurements. This ensures that your practice translates directly to pub or tournament play.

• Dartboard Height: The center of the bullseye should be exactly 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.
  
• Throwing Distance (Oche): For steel-tip darts, the distance from the front of the dartboard to the throwing line should be 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm). For soft-tip darts, it’s usually 8 feet (244 cm).
  
• Diagonal Check: Measure from the bullseye to the oche — it should be 9 feet 7.5 inches (293 cm) for steel-tip setups.
  

3. Safety first

Even the best dart throwers can miss. To protect your walls and floors:

• Use a dartboard surround or cabinet to catch stray darts.
  
• Avoid placing your board near windows, TVs, or valuable items.
  
• If you have children, make sure darts are stored securely when not in use.
  

4. Style & comfort in your setup

A great home darts setup isn’t just about rules – it’s also about creating a space you enjoy playing in. Consider:

• Good lighting: LED spotlights above the board minimize shadows.
  
• Comfortable flooring: Carpet or mats make long sessions easier on your feet.
  
• Themed décor: From pub-style signs to framed darts memorabilia, make it personal.
  

5. Practice like a pro

With the right dartboard distance and height, you’re ready to start improving. Play regularly, track your scores, and challenge friends to keep the fun going.

Final Tip: Investing in a proper setup at home not only boosts your skills but also gives you a dedicated space for stress relief, socializing, and enjoying the game you love.