How to choose the best dartboards and darts
Why play darts?
Whether you're at the pub or hosting a party at home, playing darts is a great way to have fun. It's simple to set up, needs minimal equipment, and is easy to learn. But there's loads of skill to it too! So if you'd like to be the next Luke "The Nuke" Littler or just want to take up a new hobby, get ready. Perfect your grip, stance and throw, and bag yourself a bullseye.
Everything you need to play darts
Understanding a dartboard...
What does it consist of?
- A dartboard has 20 numbered sections or arcs. They are equally spaced by wires running from the centre to the outer rim.
- At the centre sits the inner (double bull - 50 points) and outer bullseye (single bull - 25 points).
- There’s an inner ring halfway across the centre and an outer ring at the edge. They represent the treble and double zones.
- If you hit a dart in the outer double area, the number you hit is doubled. If you hit in the inner treble area, the number is tripled.
- The 2 areas between the rings represent the single scoring zones.
How to pick the best dartboard
To make the most of the game, we’ve listed down a few things you need to keep in mind while buying a dartboard.
Base - A traditional dartboard is made from sisal fibre. It’s highly durable, stiff, and has great grip. It also has a self-healing effect - so when you remove the dart, the board automatically seals the hole.
Fibre density - Choose a dartboard that has solid density and depth as that reduces bounce outs.
Wiring - If you are a pro, go for super thin staple-free wiring - the thinner the wires, the lower the chances of a bounce out.
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Dartboards for beginners
If you are a newbie, go for the durable bristle dartboard made of sisal that will endure lots of practice.
Dartboards for intermediates & pros
If you know the game well, a dartboard with double or triple-core and ultra-thin wires is a must-have so you can hone your skills to perfection.
Understanding darts…
Get to grips with what makes up a dart.
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Point
The sharp tip that hits the dartboard.
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Barrel
The part where you grip the dart.
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Shaft
Connects the grip with the flight.
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Flight
The back portion of the dart.
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What are the different types of dart grips?
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Ring grip
Helps with a consistent finger placement for enhanced control.
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Razor grip
Offers outstanding control, precision, and stability.
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Scallop grip
Grooved area on the dart for a consistent grip each time.
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Knurled grip
Features horizontal or crossing lines for that extra grip.
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Which materials are darts made of?
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Tungsten darts
Best for - Advanced players
These offer a slim profile allowing a tighter grouping and improved precision.
Brass darts
Best for - Beginners
A durable and comparatively pocket-friendly option with a wider barrel.
Steel darts
Best for - Players looking for budget-friendly and durable options.
These darts are lightweight and corrosion resistant.
Shop darts by weight
Tips to pick the best darts for your playing style
How to pick the best darts
- Check what the material of the dart barrel is. Tungsten is a popular choice as it's denser compared to other metals and increases accuracy.
- Pick a dart that complements your throwing style. If you tend to hit higher on the board, you might want to pick a heavier dart. If you throw with force, maybe choose a lighter option.
- If you are a beginner or an intermediate player, look for a dart with a knurled or a ring grip. Knurling is grooves etched on a barrel that provides a better grip.
- Once you advance, you could try a razor grip or a scallop grip for better grip.
Darts top picks
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Electronic dartboards for easy and accurate scoring
Bring precision and fun to your game. With automatic scoring to keep track of points and multiple game modes to keep your play fresh and exciting, your family and friends will enjoy playing darts.
Darts accessories you need to play
There are some great accessories for every dart player and every budget. From darts cases to help you take your darts to tournaments, to dartboard lights to really lift your game.
Dart and dartboard reviews
Reviews Carousel
Good heavy sturdy
I bought this for my 14 year old, turns out the 36 year old husband enjoys it just as much! Comes with everything you need to put it up on your wall, ...
Zara93
London, 14/09/2025
Target Darts Corona Lighting
This is just simplicity itself. So easy to connect to the dart board, by sliding in between the board & surround and then held perfectly in place by i...
Mal44
Norfolk, 29/08/2025
Bought these on a recommendation and glad I did
Bought these a while ago as a total darts novice, have enjoyed using them and the more experienced guys I play against, have used them and said they a...
DazzyDunc
Macduff, 30/08/2025
FAQs about darts
What are the different types of dartboards?
There are three main types of dartboards - bristle, magnetic and electronic. Bristle, also known as sisal dartboards are traditional options. Magnetic dartboards are used for darts with flat tips to ensure safety - great for children and casual play. Electronic dartboards are digital and have an automatic scoring feature.
How can I choose the right darts for my playing style?
Choose the right dart for you by following these tips:
- Consider your playing style and match the weight of your dart with your throw.
- Remember - heavy darts or slow throws and lightweight darts for fast throws.
- Pick a barrel shape that gives you the best grip - begin with knurled.
- Keep trying until you find the best dart (barrel, flight and shaft combination) for you.
- Most beginners start with a 22 - 24g of dart.
How high should I hang the dartboard from the floor?
Hang your dartboard so that the bullseye is 1.73m (5ft 8 inches) above the ground and you should stand 2.37m (7 ft 9.25 inches) away from the dartboard.
How to throw darts?
While throwing a dart looks like a piece of cake, there are multiple factors that you need to perfect.
- Find your stance and be stable
- Hold the dart and make sure your grip is comfortable.
- Position the dart to aim at the dartboard.
- Release the dart - take your arm forward, the backwards to throw the dart in a forward motion.
How do I get better at darts?
The best way to hone your game is to keep practising. Focus on the target and play dedicatedly. Stay consistent and play regularly. Set goals for yourself and keep reviewing your performance. Here are some more ways to get better at darts.
What to get someone who loves darts?
For darts lovers, a variety of dartboards, darts, shafts, flights, stands, surrounds and cases are a great options. If you are unsure, then go for a darts playing experience or an Argos gift card so they can buy their preferrable dart equipment.
Which country is considered the birthplace of modern darts?
While it began as a military pastime, England is considered as the birthplace of modern darts.
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