If you’re a fan of the National Hockey League, or the NHL, then you’ll love their extensive line of air hockey tables. Their latest model is designed for the true Bruins fans. Unlike other models in this price range, it’s clear that the manufacturer put some thought into the design and didn’t skimp on the materials used or the extra features. Not only can you plug in your smartphone and enjoy music while you play, but the table also comes with all of the accessories you’ll need to get started playing your first match as soon as this beast is assembled. This eye-catching model doesn’t exactly feature a space-saving design, but if you’re looking for a table that has it all, is tournament quality, and one that can be the perfect addition to your man cave, then your search is over.
Overview and Features
NHL’s extensive line of air hockey tables, table covers, and accessories are popular for a variety of reasons. Not only do you get to purchase a table with your favorite hockey team’s logo, but you also get a table that’s designed to last and one that’s equipped with all the right features, all for a price that won’t hit your wallet too hard.
Many models that are designed for users of all skill levels tend to lack important components, whether it’s leg levelers, an electronic scoreboard or the table simply doesn’t have the right type of blower system to meet the needs of a tournament sized table. But that’s where this table is different. Not only is it reasonably priced, perfect for tournament play, and comes loaded with some fun extra features, but it also has a powerful blower system, smooth playing surface, and it comes with all the gear you need to get started.
For some, the table’s lengthy assembly time will be a big drawback, but considering the size and quality of the table, you can expect to dedicate an hour or two to putting this monster together.
Design
This is the best air hockey table for any Bruins fan considering the entire cabinet features NHL style graphics on the sides of the table. While the design is obviously going to be a big selling point for this particular model, it’s not the only reason to buy. If you’re learning how to prepare for an air hockey tournament, then this regulation-sized model is a perfect choice. It’s not quite as flashy as higher-priced tables, but it comes loaded with all the right features you’ll need to prepare for the big day or to enjoy a challenging game with friends or family.
Leg Levelers
This table allows you to choose from three height options, thanks to the leg levelers, which make it easy to adjust the height of the table quickly, and easily.
Playing Surface
The large, smooth playing surface is equipped with a powerful electronic blower that promotes faster, smoother gameplay.
LED Scoreboard
What Bruins air hockey table would be complete without an electronic scoreboard? The scoreboard gives the table a pro, arcade-style feel that most players love. This automatic scoring system is accurate, allowing you to focus closely on the game as the board automatically keeps track of the score. The scoring system also comes complete with sound effects that go off each time a goal is made.
Audio Jack and Built-In Speakers
This table has a feature you won’t commonly see on most tables in this price range. The built-in audio jack and speaker system allow you to plug in your iPhone or Android phone and stream your music. This is a great extra feature for the music lover who enjoys practicing or playing a match while listening to their favorite tunes.
Cupholders
The built-in cupholders are another great feature you can’t expect to find on other models in this price range. If you’re tired of friends and family trying to balance their drinks on the table’s edge, or worse, the playing surface, then you’ll be thrilled that this model comes with a total of four cupholders.
Measurements
This table measures in at eighty-four inches in length, forty-eight inches wide, and thirty-two inches tall. The large size makes it perfect for competitive and casual play.
Another great thing about this table is that it comes in four different themes! Check each of the teams below and pick your favorite!
Boston Bruins Table
New York Rangers Table
Pittsburgh Penguins Table
Detroit Red Wings Table
Extras
This table comes with:
- Four pushers
- Four air-powered pucks
- Built-in accessory storage
The built-in accessory storage allows you to store all your air hockey gear so you can keep everything neat, organized, and prevent your pushers or the pucks from getting misplaced.
Durability
Durability and design quality are both huge factors for anyone shopping for a new air hockey table, whether you need one you can practice on, you want a table you can use to play against the kids, or it’s a table that will strictly be used by the adults. This table’s design is top-notch. Well-built and designed to handle heavy-duty use, I wasn’t surprised by the table’s durability considering this is an NHL brand model.
Weight
The table weighs in at a little over one hundred and thirty-six pounds. Obviously, this isn’t one of those modern foldable or portable air hockey tables. Instead, this is one that’s designed for a permanent setup. Of course, the weight will make it difficult to move, so you may need some help during assembly.
Assembly and Installation
This is one massive table. Built tough and pro-quality all the way, this table is going to take some time to put together. It’s definitely a two to three-person job. Fortunately, the included user’s manual comes with well-written instructions that will walk you through each step of the assembly process. However, even though the instructions are easy to follow, you can still expect to spend a couple of hours putting this table together.
Warranty
This model comes with a ninety-day product warranty, which is a little disappointing considering the price.
Maintenance
Like any other air hockey table, this model should be covered when not in use to keep the playing surface clean, smooth, and free of dust, dirt, and any other type of debris that can have a negative impact on your playing experience. If you have the extra cash you can purchase a table cover directly from the manufacturer. If you’d like to learn more about basic care and maintenance, be sure to stop by and read my article on how to clean an air hockey table the easy way.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Comes with free accessories
- Great price
- Built-in speakers and audio jack
- Four cupholders
- Leg levelers
- Durable design
Cons
- Short warranty period
- Difficult to move
- Long assembly time
NHL Model Vs. the BRUNSWICK 7FT Air Hockey Table
This NHL model has some serious competition. The Brunswick is one of the top-selling models on the market currently, thanks to its durable construction, high gloss playing surface, contemporary design, and its reputation as one of the best models you can practice on. In terms of flash, you won’t find many extra features on the Brunswick, but if your main priority is a well-built table equipped with a powerful blower system, then this model may be right up your alley. Of course, if some nice extras, such as built-in speakers, storage space, and cupholders are important to you, then you’ll be disappointed with the lack of flash the competition has to offer. Both tables are comparable in size and weight. However, the competition comes with a manual scoreboard instead of the electronic automatic scoreboard that the NHL table has to offer. This means one of the players will be responsible for changing the score each time a goal is made. This can be a big drawback for many players. But despite the fact that this table is pretty bare-bones in terms of features, it’s going for a much higher price than what this NHL table is available for. So, if you’re on a tight budget and you want a table that’s loaded with some great extras, then stick with this table by NHL.
Conclusion and Rating
Our Rating:
If you’re looking for an air hockey table the whole family can use, this model definitely does not disappoint. This table comes loaded with many features that amateurs and seasoned players are looking for including leg levelers, an electronic scoreboard, a durable design, and built-in speakers. It’s also well-built, beginner-friendly, and available at a reasonable price. Perfect for home use, as a fun addition to your business, or as the focal point in your man cave, you can’t go wrong with an air hockey table produced by the NHL. I gave this model a rating of four and a half stars out of five.