Dartboards

The board material decides which darts you use and how you score. Bristle boards are packed sisal fibres that take steel tips and self-heal as darts are pulled out, which is why they’re the standard for league play and serious practice. Electronic boards use soft tips and score automatically, so they suit families and casual games. Magnetic boards swap sharp points for magnets, making them the safer pick for younger children.

Pick bristle sisal for the classic feel and steel-tip darts, ideal for practice. Choose electronic soft-tip boards for built-in scoring and family-friendly games. Go magnetic or coiled-paper for safer, casual play or kids. If you want a competition-style setup at home, a bristle board with a rotatable number ring is the all-round choice.

Steel-tip darts pair with bristle sisal boards. Soft-tip darts are for electronic boards. Magnetic boards only take magnetic darts. Using steel tips on an electronic board will damage the segments, and soft tips won't grip a bristle face. If you're unsure, check the product description for the board's compatible dart type.

Look for high‑grade sisal that self‑heals, a staple‑free bullseye, and ultra‑thin knife‑edge wiring to keep darts in the bed. A rotatable number ring spreads wear, and consistent board depth helps with hold.

Lifespan depends on how often you play and how well you spread the wear. Rotate the number ring regularly, avoid moisture and direct heat, and pull darts straight out. Smooth points help preserve fibres. Rest heavily used segments during practice, and use a surround to catch wayward throws and protect the board edge.

A surround protects walls, reduces marks and frames the board neatly. A cabinet also hides the board when not in use, adds scoring panels or markers, and can store darts. If you have a tight space, a simple surround is quick to fit. If you want a tidy, all‑in‑one setup, a cabinet set is the better pick.

Most sets include a board, wall fixings and at least one or two sets of darts. Cabinet sets add a wooden cabinet with scoring panels or dry‑wipe markers. Some bundles include a throw line or oche tape, and occasionally a surround. Contents vary, so check each product description to confirm exactly what's included.

Ring lighting brightens the face evenly and cuts shadows so segments are clearer. Many systems mount around a bristle board and can work with cabinets or surrounds, but mounting style and diameter differ. Check the light's compatibility notes against your board and setup before you buy.

The center of the bullseye on a dartboard should be positioned 5 feet 8 inches (more precisely 173 cm or 1.73m) from the floor.