What Size Is A Standard Dart Board?
Darts is a game that’s easy to learn but full of details. Many people start by asking a simple question: What size is a standard dart board? This question matters more than you think. Choosing the right dartboard size makes a big difference for practice, tournaments, and family games at home. If you want to improve your game or set up a proper dart space, understanding the standard size is your first step.
Let’s look closely at the official measurements, why they matter, and how dartboards differ around the world. We’ll also cover setup tips, common mistakes, and answer the questions most new players have.
The Standard Dart Board Size: Key Measurements
The most common dartboard is the bristle dartboard, also called the “English” or “standard” dartboard. This is what you see in most pubs, leagues, and professional competitions.
- Diameter: The standard dartboard is 18 inches (45.72 cm) across.
- Thickness: The board is usually 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) thick.
- Bullseye (center): The inner bullseye has a diameter of 12.7 mm (0.5 inch). The outer bullseye ring is 31.8 mm (1.25 inches).
All scoring segments and rings are designed to fit inside this 18-inch circle.
Why 18 Inches?
The 18-inch size was set by the British Darts Organization (BDO) and later adopted by the World Darts Federation (WDF). This size balances skill and chance, making the game fair for all levels.
Example Of Official Rules
Professional events, like the PDC World Darts Championship, always use this 18-inch size. If you want to play by “real” rules, you must use a board with this diameter.
Dartboard Segment And Scoring Area Dimensions
Understanding the sections of the board helps you practice smarter. Here’s how the main areas break down:
- Triple and Double Rings: Each is 8 mm (0.315 inches) wide.
- Distance from Bullseye to Triple Ring: The center of the triple ring is 107 mm (4.21 inches) from the board’s center.
- Distance from Bullseye to Double Ring: The center of the double ring is 170 mm (6.69 inches) from the center.
Let’s compare the main scoring areas:
| Section | Diameter | Width | Distance from Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bullseye (Inner) | 12.7 mm | – | 0 mm |
| Bullseye (Outer) | 31.8 mm | – | 0 mm |
| Triple Ring | – | 8 mm | 107 mm |
| Double Ring | – | 8 mm | 170 mm |
These measurements help players aim for high-value targets and understand where to focus their practice.
Different Types Of Dartboards And Their Sizes
Not every dartboard is the same. Depending on the type of darts you play, the size can change. Here are the main types:
- Bristle Dartboard (Steel Tip)
- Standard: 18 inches (45.72 cm) diameter
- Electronic Dartboard (Soft Tip)
- Common: 15.5 inches (39.37 cm) diameter
- Some models: Up to 18 inches to match steel tip boards
- American (Baseball) Dartboard
- Size varies, usually smaller than the standard bristle board
- Children’s Dartboards
- Range from 12 to 16 inches (30.48–40.64 cm)
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Dartboard Type | Standard Diameter | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bristle (Steel Tip) | 18 inches | Professional, pub, home |
| Electronic (Soft Tip) | 15.5–18 inches | Recreational, arcades |
| American Baseball | Smaller, varies | Regional games |
| Children’s Boards | 12–16 inches | Kids, family |
Insight: Some players switch between bristle and electronic boards. Practicing on a board that matches your competition size is best. Otherwise, your aim and scoring can be off.
Setting Up A Standard Dartboard: Height And Distance
The board’s size is only part of the story. For a real darts experience, you must install it at the right height and measure the correct throwing distance.
Official Dartboard Height
- The bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) from the floor. This matches the average eye level for most adults.
Throwing Distance (oche)
- The distance from the front of the board to the throw line (called the oche) is 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters).
- For soft tip (electronic) boards, the distance is often 8 feet (2.44 meters).
Sample Setup
Here’s a simple way to remember:
- Hang the board so the center is 5’8” high.
- Measure 7’9.25” out from the face of the board to your throw line.
Practical Tip: Always measure from the front face of the board, not the wall. Some thick boards or cabinets can make this confusing.
Why Size Accuracy Matters
You might wonder, does half an inch really matter? The answer is yes—especially if you want to improve or play in leagues.
- Skill Development: Practicing on a board with correct size and segment layout helps you develop muscle memory.
- Fair Competition: Leagues and tournaments use precise measurements. If your home board is off, you may struggle when playing elsewhere.
- Scoring Consistency: Slight changes in ring width or bullseye size can make scoring much easier or harder.
Non-obvious insight: Many beginners buy cheaper boards that look similar but are slightly too small or have incorrect ring positions. This creates bad habits and makes the transition to official play frustrating.
Standard Dartboard Materials And Their Impact
Most standard dartboards are made from sisal fibers (from the agave plant). This material heals itself when darts are removed, so the board lasts longer.
- Bristle (Sisal): Official tournaments use only bristle boards.
- Cork: Found in some cheaper boards, but not as durable.
- Plastic: Used for electronic boards.
Pro tip: If you want a board that stays in good shape and gives a real “pub” feel, always choose a bristle board.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Dartboard Size
Many people make simple mistakes when buying or setting up a dartboard:
- Buying the Wrong Size: Some boards are only 15 inches or less. These are not regulation size, so they’re not good for practice.
- Ignoring Segment Proportions: Even if the board is 18 inches, the rings may not be the right width. Always check for official markings.
- Incorrect Installation Height: Hanging the board too high or low changes your throwing angle and makes practice less effective.
- Not Measuring Throw Distance: Guessing the distance can create bad habits.
- Using Kids’ Boards for Adults: Children’s boards are smaller and lighter—fine for fun, but useless for serious play.
How To Check If Your Dartboard Is Standard Size
If you already have a dartboard, here’s how to check:
- Measure across the board (edge to edge, through the center). It should be exactly 18 inches.
- Check the bullseye: The inner bullseye should be half an inch wide.
- Use a ruler to check the width of the double and triple rings (8 mm each).
If any measurement is off by more than a few millimeters, it’s not a regulation board.
International Differences In Dartboard Size
While the 18-inch dartboard is used worldwide, there are a few regional variations:
- American-Style Dartboards: These sometimes use different scoring systems and smaller boards.
- French and Belgian Dartboards: “Belgian” boards (like the “Loge” or “Flanders” boards) have unique layouts and dimensions.
- Soft Tip Darts (Asia): Many Japanese and other Asian soft tip boards use 15.5 inches as the standard.
If you plan to play internationally, always check the rules for your region or league.
Dartboard Size And Room Requirements
Before buying a standard dartboard, make sure you have enough space. Besides the board itself, you need a clear area for safe play.
- Minimum Room Length: At least 11 feet (3.35 meters) from the wall to the back of the player.
- Side Clearance: At least 2 feet (0.6 meters) on either side of the board for arm movement.
If your room is too small, you risk hitting walls, furniture, or even people.
Choosing The Right Dartboard Size For Your Needs
Here’s how to decide what size you need:
- For official practice or tournaments: Always choose an 18-inch bristle board.
- For soft tip or electronic play: Pick a 15.5-inch or 18-inch board, depending on your league.
- For kids or casual games: Smaller boards are fine, but avoid mixing them with serious play.
- Multi-use spaces: Consider a cabinet or portable board but check that the playing area fits the regulation size.
Dartboard Size Vs. Dart Weight
An often-overlooked detail is how dart weight relates to board size. Standard boards handle darts from 18 to 26 grams. Lighter darts are common for soft tip (electronic) boards, which may not last as long if you use heavy steel-tip darts.
How To Maintain A Standard Dartboard
Keeping your board in good shape also depends on its size and material:
- Rotate your board regularly to spread wear (most boards let you turn the number ring).
- Use proper darts for your board type. Heavy steel tips can damage soft tip boards.
- Keep the board dry and avoid direct sunlight, which can warp the fibers.
Where To Buy Official Size Dartboards
Most sports stores and major online retailers sell official-size dartboards. Look for terms like “bristle,” “sisal,” and “18-inch diameter”. Brands like Winmau, Unicorn, and Viper are known for quality boards.
You can find more technical rules and diagrams at the Wikipedia Dartboard page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Is A Professional Dartboard?
A professional dartboard is 18 inches (45.72 cm) in diameter and about 1.5 inches thick. All major tournaments use this exact size.
How Far Should You Stand From A Dartboard?
For steel-tip (bristle) dartboards, stand 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters) from the face of the board to the throw line (oche). For soft-tip boards, the distance is usually 8 feet (2.44 meters).
Can Children Use A Standard Size Dartboard?
Yes, children can use a standard size board, but younger players may find it easier with a lighter set of darts and a smaller board. Always supervise for safety.
Is The Bullseye Always The Same Size?
On standard boards, the inner bullseye is 12.7 mm in diameter. The outer bullseye is 31.8 mm. Some novelty or children’s boards may have different sizes.
What Happens If My Dartboard Is Not Regulation Size?
If your board is not regulation size, your practice will not match official play. Your aiming and scoring skills may not transfer well to tournaments or pub games, making it harder to compete.
Setting up a dartboard the right way is the foundation for improving your skills and enjoying the game. When you use the correct size, you’re training just like the pros. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming for a championship, the standard dartboard size gives you the best darts experience.
