Lets review some of the most common pool cue tip diameters and exactly what purpose they serve. 13mm comes standard on most cues. 12.5mm is usually a 13mm that’s been taken down to that smaller size. Finally there’s an 11.75 which is found on Predator’s Z-Shaft. Each of these sizes has a purpose and we’re going to review that right now.

13 mm Diameter Tip:

First up is the 13mm pool cue tip. This tip will help you to pocket balls really well. Getting good English with a 13mm shaft will be a little more difficult if you don’t already have a really good stroke.

12.50 mm Diameter Tip:

Next up is the 12.5mm pool cue tip. You’ll get a bit more English with this tip though you’re likely to miss a little more often because it’s a smaller surface hitting the ball.

11.75 mm Diameter Tip:

Finally we have the 11.75mm pool cue tip. This tip will give you a lot of English but you’re even more likely to miss since there’s even less tip surface hitting the ball.

So, as with just about anything in life, you’ll need to strike a compromise between certain aspects. Some people may have a more well developed stroke already, which means a 13mm tip may be the best choice for them. Some people may prefer the ability to impart a great deal of English on the ball, which would mean a smaller tip diameter for them.

In short: the larger the cue tip, the more you’re like to pocket balls. The smaller the cue tip, the more English you’ll be able to put on the cue ball. You can choose your tip based on your preference.