If you play darts at home or watch professional tournaments, you may wonder: what are the official dart board dimensions? Getting these measurements right is important. A dart board that’s too large, too small, or not hung at the correct height can ruin your game. More importantly, using the right dimensions makes your practice count and prepares you for real competitions.
Many people make mistakes with dart board setup. They buy a board, hang it on a wall, and start throwing darts—without checking if their board matches the official size. This article will guide you step-by-step, covering every official measurement. You’ll discover not just the numbers, but why they matter, how to measure them accurately, and how they compare with other types of boards.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to set up your dart board like a pro.
Official Dart Board Size And Shape
The standard dart board used in most tournaments is called the “clock” or “London” board. This is the type seen in the PDC, BDO, and most local leagues.
- Diameter: The dart board must be exactly 18 inches (457 mm) across.
- Thickness: The board’s depth is typically 1.5 inches (38 mm), but only the diameter is strictly regulated.
- Shape: It must be a perfect circle.
Unlike some boards made for children or casual play, official boards do not allow variations in size. The reason is simple: consistency. Whether you play in England, the US, or Asia, the dart board should always be the same size.
Example: Why Size Matters
Imagine practicing on a board that is 15 inches wide. You might become very accurate, but when you play on an official 18-inch board, the targets feel different, and your muscle memory doesn’t match. Official size helps you build skills that transfer anywhere.
Official Dart Board Layout
It’s not just about the outside diameter. The dart board’s layout is equally important:
- Number of Segments: 20 numbered sections, arranged clockwise, with the highest number (20) at the top center.
- Bullseye: The center of the board, split into two parts:
- Inner bullseye: 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) diameter.
- Outer bullseye (“25 ring”): 1.25 inches (31.8 mm) diameter.
- Double Ring: The thin ring at the outer edge. It is 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) wide.
- Treble Ring: The thin ring halfway between the bullseye and the edge. Also 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) wide.
Here’s a quick comparison of dart board segment sizes:
| Segment | Diameter/Width |
|---|---|
| Bullseye (Inner) | 0.5 in (12.7 mm) |
| Bullseye (Outer) | 1.25 in (31.8 mm) |
| Double Ring | 0.5 in (12.7 mm) |
| Treble Ring | 0.5 in (12.7 mm) |
| Board Diameter | 18 in (457 mm) |
Each segment must be equal in width and shape, with clear dividing wires (called “spiders”) separating them.
Dart Board Hanging Height
Hanging the board at the right height is just as important as the board itself.
- Center Bullseye Height: The center of the bullseye must be exactly 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.
- Wall Mounting: The board should be fixed flush against the wall, not tilted.
- No carpet or platform: Measure from the bare floor, not from the top of a rug or mat.
Many beginners mistakenly measure from the board’s top or bottom. Always measure to the bullseye’s center.
Practical Tip: Measuring Height
Use a tape measure. Mark the bullseye spot on your wall before mounting the board. If your floor is uneven, measure from the highest point.
Throwing Distance (oche)
The oche is the line you stand behind when throwing. The official distance varies slightly depending on the type of darts:
- Steel-tip darts: The oche must be 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) from the board’s face (not the wall).
- Soft-tip darts (electronic boards): The distance is 8 feet (244 cm).
Always measure from the front surface of the dart board, not the wall behind it. Some walls are thick, so measuring from the wall can make the distance too short.
Measuring The Oche
- Place a tape measure on the floor, touching the board’s front.
- Mark the exact spot for the oche.
- Use masking tape or a proper oche marker.
Here’s a comparison of steel-tip vs. soft-tip distances:
| Type | Throwing Distance |
|---|---|
| Steel-tip | 7 ft 9.25 in (237 cm) |
| Soft-tip | 8 ft (244 cm) |
Types Of Dart Boards And Their Dimensions
Not all dart boards are the same. Here are the main types:
- Bristle Dart Board (Standard):
- 18 inches diameter.
- Used in most competitions.
- Made from sisal fibers.
- Electronic Dart Board:
- Usually 15.5 inches diameter.
- Made from plastic.
- Used for soft-tip darts, mainly in Asia and the US.
- American Dart Board:
- 18 inches diameter.
- Different segment layout (baseball darts).
- Not used in international tournaments.
- Children’s Dart Board:
- Varies in size.
- Not regulated.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Board Type | Diameter | Material | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bristle (Standard) | 18 in | Sisal fiber | Pro & amateur |
| Electronic | 15.5 in | Plastic | Soft-tip only |
| American | 18 in | Wood/sisal | Baseball darts |
| Children’s | Variable | Paper/plastic | Casual |
Common Mistakes When Setting Up A Dart Board
Many beginners make errors that can affect their practice and enjoyment.
- Incorrect Height: Mounting the board too high or low.
- Wrong Distance: Measuring from the wall, not the board’s front.
- Using Non-Standard Boards: Practicing on boards that are too small or too large.
- Poor Lighting: Not enough light makes it hard to see numbers and segments.
- Ignoring Surroundings: Not leaving enough space around the board; darts can hit walls.
Non-obvious Insight: Board Rotation
Rotate your board regularly. The segment above the bullseye (the “20”) wears out fastest. Rotating prolongs the board’s life and keeps play fair.
How To Measure Dart Board Dimensions Accurately
Getting the right size is only half the job. Measuring correctly matters just as much.
- Use a metal tape measure for accuracy.
- Check for warping—older boards can bend, making measurements unreliable.
- Measure diameter across the face, not around the edge.
If you’re unsure about your board’s size, measure across the widest part. If it’s not 18 inches, it’s not official.
Non-obvious Insight: Avoid Cheap Boards
Very cheap boards often claim to be “official size,” but are slightly smaller. Always check before buying. For trusted specs, see Wikipedia.
Why Official Dimensions Matter
Consistency is key in darts. Playing on a board that matches official dimensions helps you:
- Build accurate skills
- Compete fairly
- Join tournaments confidently
Unofficial boards may seem fun, but practicing on them can develop bad habits. If you want to improve, always use a board with official measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Official Diameter Of A Dart Board?
The official diameter is 18 inches (457 mm). This size is used in all major competitions worldwide.
How High Should A Dart Board Be Mounted?
The bullseye’s center must be 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) above the floor. Always measure from the bare floor, not a carpet.
What Is The Throwing Distance For Darts?
For steel-tip darts, the distance from the board face to the oche is 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm). For soft-tip darts, it’s 8 feet (244 cm).
Can I Use An Electronic Dart Board For Tournaments?
Most official tournaments require a bristle board. Electronic boards are used only for soft-tip darts in some leagues.
Why Are Dart Board Segments Equal In Size?
Equal segments ensure fair play. If segments were different, some would be easier to hit than others, making the game unfair.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a dart board isn’t just about hanging something on the wall. Using the official dart board dimensions makes your practice meaningful and prepares you for real competition. Whether you play for fun or want to join tournaments, understanding the exact size, layout, height, and throwing distance is essential. Avoid common mistakes, measure carefully, and choose a board with trusted specifications. With the right setup, you’ll enjoy the game more and improve faster.
