Different Types of Dartboard: A Complete Guide

Darts may look like a simple game, but one of the most important choices you’ll make as a player is the dartboard you use.

There isn’t just one standard option there are several different types of dartboard, each designed for different settings, skill levels, and playing styles.

Whether you’re putting together a home darts setup, buying for a pub, or looking for something fun for the kids, knowing the differences between dartboards will help you make the right choice.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the different types of dartboard, their pros and cons, and the best use cases for each.

Here at Throw For 180, we’re keen to make sure you’ve got the best and most up to date information about everything darts!

Bristle Dartboards

The classic choice you’ll see in pubs and professional tournaments. Bristle dartboards are made from tightly packed sisal fibres, which close up when darts are removed, keeping the board durable.

Pros:

• Long lasting, especially with proper rotation.
• Used in all professional matches making this the “real deal.”
• Great scoring surface with clear segment separation.

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to cheaper alternatives.
• Needs proper darts (steel tip only).

Best For:
Serious players, home setups aiming for a “pub feel,” and anyone who wants the same equipment used by the pro players.

Electronic Dartboards

Electronic dartboards are made with thousands of small holes to catch soft tip darts. They automatically track scores, and many come with built-in games.

Pros:

• Automatic scoring (no arguments over math!).
• Safer for casual play with soft tip darts.
• Great variety of built-in game modes.

Cons:

• Requires power (batteries or mains).
• Doesn’t have the authentic “feel” of steel-tip darts.
• Can wear out faster than bristle boards with heavy use.

Best For:
Casual play at home, parties, or introducing kids to darts.

Magnetic Dartboards

Instead of sharp darts, these use flat-tipped darts with magnetic ends. The board surface is designed to attract the darts.

Pros:

• Extremely safe and ideal for young children.
• Inexpensive and lightweight.
• Easy to hang up and move around.

Cons:

• Doesn’t replicate the real feel of darts.
• Limited durability.
• Rarely used outside of kids’ games.

Best For:
Young kids, family rooms, or anyone wanting a fun, safe alternative to traditional darts.

Coiled Paper Dartboards

These are made from layers of coiled paper and are among the cheapest dartboards available. They’re often found in toy sets or starter kits.

Pros:

• Low cost.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Easy to hang up.

Cons:

• Wear down quickly (holes don’t close like bristle).
• Not suitable for serious practice.

Best For:
Absolute beginners who just want to try darts without investing much money in one of the other different types of dartboard.

Wooden Dartboards

Before bristle boards became the standard, wooden dartboards were the go-to. Some are still available, though of the different types of dartboard, these are definitely the rarest.

Pros:

• Traditional, vintage look.
• Solid and sturdy.

Cons:

• Needs soaking to maintain condition.
• Darts don’t always grip as well.
• Largely outdated for regular play.

Best For:
Collectors, traditionalists, or themed game rooms.

Novelty Dartboards

These include velcro dartboards (with velcro-tipped darts) and other creative takes designed purely for casual fun. Different types of dartboard come into this category, but all of them combined are still not very popular.

Pros:

• Safe and playful.
• Great for kids’ parties.

Cons:

• Not suitable for “real” darts play.
• Limited lifespan and accuracy.

Best For:
Family fun, children’s games, or themed events.

How to Choose the Right Dartboard

When comparing the different types of dartboards, the right choice depends on your goals:

• Want the authentic pub experience? Go with a bristle dartboard.
• Looking for fun, social play with less risk? An electronic dartboard is ideal.
• Buying for kids or beginners? A magnetic or velcro board is the safest option.
• Just testing the waters? A coiled paper board can be a cheap first step.

If darts becomes more than just a passing hobby, upgrading to a bristle board is the natural next move for most players.

Different Types of Dartboard: Final Thoughts

There are plenty of different types of dartboard to choose from, and each has its place. While bristle dartboards remain the gold standard for serious players, electronic, magnetic, and even novelty boards all bring something different to the table.

Think about where you’ll be playing, who’ll be playing, and how serious you want to get. From there, you’ll know which dartboard fits best into your setup, and our buying guides will then be able to tell you what to do next.

And remember, the best dartboard is the one that keeps you throwing, enjoying the game, and maybe even chasing that magical 180.