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The tip of your cue is small, but it has a big influence on how you play. It’s the only part of the stick that actually touches the cue ball, and its hardness determines spin, forgiveness, feel, and durability.
Selecting the right tip isn’t about memorizing technical scales — it’s about matching the feel of the tip to your playing style.
Table of Contents
- What the Hardness Numbers Mean
- Soft Tips (55–65)
- Medium Tips (66–75)
- Medium-Hard to Hard Tips (76–85)
- Extra-Hard / Phenolic Tips (86–100)
- Final Verdict
1. What the Hardness Numbers Mean
The numbers (55–100) come from durometer ratings, a system originally designed to measure rubber hardness. Lower numbers mean the tip compresses more easily (softer), while higher numbers resist compression (harder). In cue tips, that translates to contact feel — softer tips grip the cue ball longer, harder tips transfer energy faster.
2. Soft Tips (55–65 Hardness Range)
Feel
- Cushioned, “grabby” contact.
- Softer sound and more shock absorption.
Performance
- Maximizes spin and cue ball grip.
- Holds chalk easily, reducing miscues.
- Very forgiving on slightly off-center hits.
Popular Examples: Elk Master, Blue Diamond, Moori Soft
Best suited for: Finesse players or learners prioritizing spin and control over durability.
3. Medium Tips (66–75 Hardness Range)
Feel
- Balanced hit — neither too soft nor too firm.
Performance
- Good balance of spin, control, and lifespan.
- Versatile across all pool disciplines.
Popular Examples: Kamui Medium, Molavia Medium, Tiger Everest
Best suited for: Most players. The safest all-around choice if you’re unsure which hardness to pick.
4. Medium-Hard to Hard Tips (76–85 Hardness Range)
Feel
- Crisp, solid feedback with minimal compression.
- Louder “pop” sound at impact.
Performance
- Durable and precise.
- Transfers energy efficiently — ideal for powerful strokes.
- Generates less spin than softer tips.
Popular Examples: Triangle, Le Professionel, Moori Hard
Best suited for: Experienced players, breakers, and those who prefer a firm, clean hit.
5. Extra-Hard / Phenolic Tips (86–100 Hardness Range)
Feel
- Extremely firm, near-glass contact.
Performance
- Engineered for break and jump cues.
- Max energy transfer, minimal wear.
Popular Examples: Talisman Pro X-Hard, White Diamond, G10 / Phenolic / Mezz Ignot
Best suited for: Break and jump cues only — not for everyday shooting.
6. Final Verdict
- Soft tips: Maximum spin and forgiveness, higher upkeep.
- Medium tips: Balanced and dependable — best for most players.
- Hard tips: Precise and durable, but less spin-friendly.
- Extra-hard: Specialized for break and jump cues only.
If you’re unsure where to start, go with a medium tip. It delivers consistency and control while letting you experiment with both finesse and power as your stroke evolves.
