8-Ball Pool is a one-on-one game of pool for real stakes. A complete guide to 8-Ball Pool: rules, payouts and the math behind every round. Facts, not hype.
The hard numbers of the game, for the record.
How a match works
The table is open until the first legal pot after the break, which sets your group. Pockets are not called. A foul gives your opponent ball in hand: a scratch, missing every ball, hitting the wrong group first, or no ball reaching a cushion after contact.
Winning and payouts
- Clear your group and pot the 8 legally to win.
- Potting the 8 early, or on a foul, loses the game.
- A 5% platform fee is taken from each stake. The winner takes the whole pot - 1.9× their stake.
Shot clock
You have 30 seconds for each shot. Running out of time is a foul and gives your opponent ball in hand; three timeouts in a row forfeit the game. Disconnecting does not pause the clock.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an 8-ball match pay?
The winner takes the pot: 1.9x their stake after the 5% platform fee. Potting the 8 early or on a foul loses the game.
What are the fouls in 8-ball?
A scratch, missing every ball, hitting the wrong group first, hitting the 8 first on an open table, or no ball reaching a cushion after contact. A foul gives your opponent ball in hand.
How long is the shot clock?
30 seconds per shot. Three timeouts in a row forfeit the game, and disconnecting does not pause the clock.
The numbers that matter
| Players | 1v1 |
|---|---|
| Shot clock | 30 seconds |
| Platform fee | 5% |
| Win pays | 1.9× |