Tip size – Most used 9.25mm – 9.75mm with 9.5mm being preferred by many.
To give an idea of tip size differences – 0.10mm is the thickness of a paper.
- Under 9mm – isn't ideal for snooker but is more suitable for English pool.
Why isn't it suitable for snooker – A smaller tip size will punish you for inaccuracy with unwanted spin. Some cues shafts can lack strength and power at this tip size.
- 9.25mm – 9.8mm – This is the most common tip size bracket for snooker. 9.5mm is ideal for a high percentage of players, it's proved to be the most suitable size for keeping accuracy, while being small enough to generate good spin.
- 9.9mm & 10mm – Are not always the best size to play with. There is a point a tip size becomes a little too big to generate good spin, in fairness good technique will overcome this. For many players, a big tip will encourage them to strike the cue ball harder to get a desired reaction. Big tips can create more push / throw / deflection when striking off centre.