Standard vs. ELITE Crokinole Boards: Which Should You Choose?
Updated August 2026
If you are comparing Mayday Games Crokinole boards, you have probably noticed two main options: our Standard boards and our ELITE boards. Both are designed to deliver an enjoyable, tournament-style Crokinole experience, but their construction, weight, hardware and overall feel are different.
This guide explains those differences clearly so you can choose the board that best fits your home, playing habits and budget.
The quick answer
Choose a Standard board if you want excellent value, easier portability and a dependable board for family or casual play. Choose an ELITE board if you prefer heavier construction, greater stability and upgraded details for frequent or long-term play.
Standard vs. ELITE: The Main Differences
| Feature | Standard Board | ELITE Board |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Value, portability, families and first-time owners | Frequent play, added stability and premium construction |
| Approximate weight | About 8 kg | About 14 kg |
| Base construction | Lighter layered construction with a hollow center section | Solid MDF bottom layer with an upper playing layer |
| Feet | Four felt pads | Three rubber, self-leveling feet |
| Pegs | Wooden pegs | Metal fasteners with rubber coverings |
| Portability | Easier to move and store | Heavier and better suited to a permanent playing area |
Weights and construction details are approximate and may vary slightly by model or production run. Always check the current product listing before purchasing.
What Both Boards Have in Common
Before looking at the differences, it is important to understand that both versions are built for real Crokinole play. Choosing the Standard board does not mean choosing an incomplete or beginner-only game.
Both board types offer:
- A full-size, tournament-style playing area
- A smooth wooden surface designed for Crokinole discs
- Eight center pegs surrounding the 20-point hole
- A circular scoring layout with an outer ditch
- Compatibility with a range of Mayday Games Crokinole discs and accessories
Either board can provide years of family games, friendly competition and serious practice when it is properly maintained.
1. Board Construction
The most important difference is underneath the playing surface.
The Standard board uses a lighter layered design. Its outer ring and inner playing section create a hollow area through part of the board. This keeps the total weight down and makes it easier to carry, move or store.
The ELITE board uses a solid MDF bottom layer with an additional upper playing layer. The extra material makes the board heavier and gives it a more substantial feel when placed on a table.
This heavier construction does not automatically make every shot better, but it can help the board feel more stable during energetic games.
2. Weight and Portability
A Standard board weighs approximately 8 kg, while an ELITE board weighs approximately 14 kg. Exact weights can vary slightly between models and production runs.
The Standard board is usually the more practical choice if you expect to:
- Carry the board to game nights
- Move it between rooms
- Store it after each game
- Transport it regularly by car
The ELITE board is better suited to players who have a dedicated game room, sturdy table or permanent storage location. Its additional weight can be reassuring during play, but it also requires more care when lifting and moving.
3. Feet and Table Stability
Standard boards rest on four felt pads. These pads help protect the table underneath and allow the board to sit securely on a suitable flat surface.
ELITE boards use three rubber, self-leveling feet. Three contact points can make it easier for a board to sit steadily when a table is not perfectly even. The rubber also helps reduce unwanted movement during play.
The two underside photographs above show this difference directly: the Standard model uses felt contact points, while the ELITE model has three clearly visible rubber feet.
No matter which model you choose, always place the board on a stable table large enough to support its full diameter.
4. Peg Construction and Rebound
The eight pegs around the center hole are one of the most important parts of Crokinole. They block direct shots and create unpredictable rebounds.
Standard boards traditionally use wooden pegs. ELITE boards use metal fasteners covered with rubber. The rubber covering provides a different rebound character and can feel more forgiving when discs strike the pegs.
The photograph also shows a difference in the center hole. The Standard version has a more visible raised base, while the ELITE center hole has a flatter appearance.
Neither peg design removes the skill involved. Players still need to control their angle, speed and follow-through.
5. Rim and Outer Ditch
The Standard board uses a thicker rim with an attached construction designed to balance durability and price.
The ELITE version uses a thinner, higher-grade plywood rim with glued construction. It is intended to provide a sturdier and more refined overall finish.
The ELITE board’s solid base and rim design also give its ditch area a distinct appearance. Cosmetic details, wood color and grain can vary because wood is a natural material.
6. The Center 20-Point Hole
On a Standard board, the center hole may use a raised or convex plug underneath. This can make a disc easier to remove after scoring a 20.
The ELITE board has a flatter, shallower bottom under the center hole. Depending on the disc and the player’s hand, you may need to lift the disc out with your fingers or use a compatible center-hole insert.
The peg comparison photograph above also provides a clear view of the two center-hole designs.
If you plan to purchase an acrylic 20 holder or another center accessory, check that it is specifically compatible with your board model.
7. Does the ELITE Board Play Faster?
The ELITE playing surface may feel firmer or smoother to some players, but board speed is not determined by the model name alone.
Several factors affect how quickly Crokinole discs travel:
- The cleanliness and condition of the playing surface
- The amount and type of Crokinole wax used
- The condition of the discs
- Humidity and environmental conditions
- The force and technique of each shot
A clean, properly maintained Standard board can play very smoothly. Likewise, an ELITE board still needs appropriate care to perform at its best.
For cleaning, waxing and storage advice, read our Crokinole board maintenance guide.
Who Should Choose a Standard Crokinole Board?
A Standard board is likely the better choice if:
- You are buying your first full-size Crokinole board
- You want the best balance between playability and price
- You need to move or store the board regularly
- You want a board for family gatherings and casual game nights
- You prefer traditional wooden pegs
The Standard model remains a capable, full-size board—not simply a temporary option until you purchase something else.
Shop Standard Crokinole boards and accessories →
Who Should Choose an ELITE Crokinole Board?
An ELITE board may be worth the upgrade if:
- You play Crokinole frequently
- You want heavier, more substantial construction
- You prefer rubber-covered pegs
- You want self-leveling rubber feet
- You have a dedicated place to keep the board
- You value upgraded materials and finishing details
Customer feedback shared on our ELITE collection page has highlighted the board’s build quality and value as a family game. Individual experiences can vary, but the ELITE model is designed for players who want a more premium version of the Mayday Games board.
Price and Long-Term Value
Standard boards generally cost less than ELITE boards. The price difference reflects the ELITE board’s additional material, heavier base, rubber-covered hardware, upgraded rim construction and self-leveling feet.
Prices, available finishes and included accessories can change. Check the current product pages for the latest information rather than choosing based on an older article or advertisement.
The best value is not necessarily the least expensive board. It is the board that matches how often you play, how frequently you need to move it and which construction details matter to you.
Check Accessory Compatibility Before Ordering
Many Crokinole accessories work with both board types, but some products are model-specific. Wall-mount systems, center-hole inserts, peg kits and carrying solutions may differ between Standard and ELITE boards.
Before ordering an accessory:
- Confirm whether your board is Standard or ELITE
- Read the compatibility information on the product page
- Check the board’s current dimensions and construction
- Contact Mayday Games if the product description is unclear
For ELITE storage, see the ELITE Crokinole wall-mount hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an ELITE board always better than a Standard board?
The ELITE is the more premium construction, but that does not make it the right choice for every customer. A Standard board may be more convenient if portability, storage and price are your priorities.
Are both boards tournament size?
Mayday Games Standard and ELITE boards are designed around a full-size, tournament-style playing format. Because products can be updated, confirm the current measurements on the specific product listing before purchasing a case, table or storage system.
Can I upgrade the pegs on a Standard board?
Compatible replacement and upgrade kits may be available, but peg mounting can differ between board versions. Check the accessory description and your board model before ordering.
Can both boards be hung on a wall?
Some Standard boards include or use mounting eyelets, while ELITE boards require compatible mounting hardware. Because of the ELITE board’s greater weight, only use hardware designed to support that specific board and install it into an appropriate wall structure.
Which board is easier to transport?
The Standard board is generally easier to transport because it weighs considerably less. Use a compatible carrying case and lift the board by its outer structure rather than by the center pegs.
Does the ELITE board automatically play faster?
No. The playing surface may feel different, but speed also depends on cleanliness, wax, disc condition, humidity and shooting technique.
Is a carrying case included?
Included accessories depend on the individual product or bundle. Check the current product listing to see exactly what is included with your purchase.
Final Recommendation
Choose the Standard board for dependable full-size play, easier transport and strong overall value. Choose the ELITE board if you want a heavier, more stable board with upgraded construction and hardware.
Neither option changes the heart of Crokinole: accurate shots, clever rebounds, friendly competition and the satisfaction of landing a disc in the center hole.