I remember the first time I brought a soft tip dartboard into my game room. After years of playing steel tip in bars, I was skeptical about the electronic version. But watching my kids play safely without me worrying about wall damage or injuries changed everything. That was three years ago, and soft tip dartboards have come a long way since then.
In 2026, electronic soft tip dartboards offer features that steel tip simply cannot match. Automatic scoring eliminates arguments about math errors. App connectivity lets you compete against players worldwide from your basement. Multiple game variations keep family game nights fresh. For anyone building a home game room, a soft tip electronic dartboard belongs in your setup alongside your pool table and other entertainment essentials.
This guide covers the best soft tip dartboards we tested across every budget range. Whether you want tournament-quality practice at home, family-friendly entertainment, or online tournament play against global opponents, we have recommendations based on real-world testing and community feedback from thousands of dart players.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Soft Tip Dartboards
After testing 15 models over six months and analyzing thousands of community reviews, these three dartboards stand out for specific use cases. Each represents the best value in its category.
Arachnid Cricket Pro 800
- 15.5 inch regulation target
- 35 games with 303 variations
- NylonTough segments for durability
- 8-player LED scoring
GranBoard 3s Bluetooth Dartboard
- Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity
- Play against global opponents
- Free app with upgrades
- Slim 1.6 inch profile
Arachnid Cricket Pro 450
- Regulation 15.5 inch target
- 31 games with 178 variations
- Multi-color LED display
- Game Guard anti-reset
Best Soft Tip Dartboards in 2026 – Quick Overview
Before diving into detailed reviews, here is a side-by-side comparison of all ten dartboards we recommend. This table shows key specifications at a glance to help narrow your choices based on your priorities.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 |
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GranBoard 3s |
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Arachnid Cricket Pro 900 |
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Viper Neptune with Cabinet |
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Arachnid Cricket Maxx 4.0 |
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Viper 850 |
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DARTSLIVE Home |
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GranBoard Dash |
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Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 |
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Viper Orion |
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1. Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 – Tournament-Quality Board with 35 Games
- Tournament-quality regulation size target
- NylonTough segments reduce bounce-outs
- Tri-color Cricket scoring display
- Includes 6 darts and mounting hardware
- Heckler feature adds fun for groups
- Some users report dead zones around bullseye
- 90-day warranty shorter than competitors
I spent three weeks testing the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 in my basement game room, playing daily matches with friends and family. The first thing that impressed me was the target construction. The NylonTough segments feel substantial under dart impact, and the micro-thin dividers genuinely reduce bounce-outs compared to cheaper boards I have used.
The LED display is bright and readable from across the room, which matters when you are standing at the throw line trying to check your score. With eight-player support, this board handled our larger game nights without issue. The Cricket scoring with green, orange, and red indicators makes tracking progress intuitive even for beginners.
One feature that consistently got laughs was the heckler mode. When enabled, the board randomly taunts players after missed throws. It adds a bar-like atmosphere to home play without the smoke and overpriced drinks. You can disable it for serious practice sessions, but I found it kept casual players engaged longer.
The included mounting hardware made installation straightforward. At just over 10 pounds, the board mounted securely to my drywall with the provided anchors. The AC adapter reaches a reasonable distance, though you will want an outlet within six feet of your mounting location.
Who It’s Best For
The Cricket Pro 800 suits players who want bar-quality play at home without breaking the bank. It is ideal for families, recreational leagues, and anyone who hosts regular game nights. The 33 games provide enough variety that you will not get bored, while the tournament-size target helps serious players practice on regulation dimensions.
Setup and Daily Use
Setup took about 20 minutes from unboxing to first throw. The board comes fully assembled, so you only need to mount it and plug it in. During daily use over three weeks, the segments showed no visible wear, and scoring remained accurate. The sleep mode helps extend segment life by powering down after periods of inactivity.
2. GranBoard 3s – Premium Bluetooth Board for Online Play
- Connects to iPhone/iPad/Android/and Smart TV
- Largest online player base for matchmaking
- Free app upgrades add new games regularly
- Slim design looks modern on any wall
- No subscription fees for online play
- Requires compatible device for scoring display
- Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Batteries not included
The GranBoard 3s changed how I think about home darting. Instead of playing against the computer or whoever happens to be in my basement, I can compete against real players in Japan, England, or Australia at any hour. This connectivity is what separates the 3s from every other board on this list.
The board itself uses your phone, tablet, or TV as the display. This might sound like a drawback, but it actually works brilliantly. The graphics are far better than any built-in LED screen, and the app interface makes game selection and score tracking effortless. You can see opponent scores in real-time during online matches, and the video chat feature lets you talk trash across continents.
Build quality impressed me during testing. The 3s uses a wood and plastic composite that feels more substantial than all-plastic competitors. The segment response is crisp and accurate, crucial for online play where every point matters. At 6.2 pounds, it mounts easily but feels solid when darts hit.
The GranBoard community is the largest of any smart dartboard brand. This means you will find matches quickly at any skill level. The app supports multiple game variations, and GranDarts adds new features through free updates. I have had the board for four months and received three significant app upgrades already.
Online Tournament Features
The online matchmaking system connects you with players worldwide based on your skill rating. You can play casual matches or enter ranked tournaments. The ranking system feels fair, matching you with similarly skilled opponents after a few calibration games. During my testing, I played against players from 12 different countries and never waited more than 90 seconds for a match.
App Experience
The GranBoard app works on iOS 7 and newer, Android 4.3 and newer, and most modern Smart TVs. The interface is intuitive, with clear graphics and responsive controls. You can track your statistics over time, analyze your throwing patterns, and even join leagues. The app does not require a subscription, though there are optional in-app purchases for cosmetic dart customizations.
3. Arachnid Cricket Pro 900 – Professional Grade with 48 Games
- Most game variations of any Arachnid board
- Cricket X/O display tracks 4 players simultaneously
- Designed by company that invented soft tip darts
- Micro-thin dividers minimize bounce-outs
- Includes two sets of darts with extra tips
- Higher price point than Cricket Pro 800
- Some users report occasional freezing issues
- 90-day limited warranty
Arachnid invented the soft tip dart category, and the Cricket Pro 900 represents their flagship home board. With 48 games and 354 scoring variations, this board offers more built-in entertainment than any competitor. If you want every possible dart game at your fingertips without needing a smartphone app, the Pro 900 delivers.
The Cricket X/O display is a standout feature. Unlike boards that show simple numbers, the Pro 900 displays traditional X and O marks for Cricket scoring, visible for up to four players simultaneously. This makes the game feel more authentic and helps newer players understand Cricket scoring visually.
During my month-long test, the board received heavy daily use from three regular players. The NylonTough segments showed minimal wear, and the micro-thin dividers continued reducing bounce-outs effectively. The heckler feature has multiple voice options, ranging from gentle encouragement to genuinely annoying taunts.
The board includes two complete sets of soft tip darts and generous spare tips, a nice touch considering many boards include only basic darts. The mounting hardware is robust, and the AC adapter has a longer cord than the Pro 800 model, giving more placement flexibility.
Build Quality
The Pro 900 weighs 11.7 pounds, noticeably heavier than the Pro 800. This extra heft comes from beefier internal components and a more substantial frame. The segments feel slightly more responsive than the 800 model, though both use the same NylonTough material. The plastic casing has a premium feel that justifies the higher price for buyers wanting the best Arachnid has to offer.
Game Variety
With 48 games and 354 variations, you will never run out of options. Beyond standard 01 and Cricket games, the Pro 900 includes specialty games like Minnesota Fats, Spanish Cricket, and Cut Throat Cricket. The menu system is intuitive, cycling through games with clearly labeled buttons. You can set custom handicaps for unevenly matched players, making competitive games fairer.
4. Viper Neptune with Cabinet – All-in-One Game Room Solution
Viper by GLD Products Neptune Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board with Cabinet
- Cabinet doors protect board and organize darts
- Sleek professional appearance
- 16-player support for large gatherings
- Extended backlit LCD visible from distance
- Includes throw line and measuring tape
- Heavier at 20.3 pounds requires sturdy mounting
- 30-day warranty shorter than competitors
- Higher price due to cabinet inclusion
The Viper Neptune solves a problem most dartboard owners face eventually: where to store darts and how to protect the board when not in use. This all-in-one cabinet design integrates the 15.5 inch regulation target into a sleek enclosure with closing doors. When finished playing, simply close the cabinet to protect the board and hide the game from view.
The cabinet design looks professional in any game room, basement, or man cave. The wood-grain finish complements traditional decor while the modern LCD display provides clear scoring. At 27 inches tall when closed, it has presence on the wall without dominating the room.
Inside the cabinet doors, molded holders keep your darts organized and within reach. This eliminates the need for a separate dart case or the frustration of hunting for loose darts in a drawer. The Neptune includes six soft tip darts to get you started.
The LCD display is larger than most competitors, making scores readable from across the room. With support for 16 players, this board handles larger gatherings better than most. The 57 games include enough variety for any group, from serious Cricket matches to casual party games.
Cabinet Benefits
The integrated cabinet offers practical advantages beyond aesthetics. The doors protect the board from dust, pet hair, and accidental damage when not in use. The internal storage eliminates clutter and keeps accessories organized. When hosting guests, closing the cabinet transforms your game area back into a clean living space.
Space Requirements
At over 20 pounds, the Neptune requires more robust mounting than basic boards. You will want to secure this to wall studs or use heavy-duty drywall anchors rated for at least 30 pounds. The closed cabinet extends about 3.5 inches from the wall, so ensure adequate clearance for door swing. Plan for the standard 8-foot throw distance from board face to throw line.
5. Arachnid Cricket Maxx 4.0 – Feature-Packed Entertainment Hub
- 4 LED displays visible from all angles
- Heckler feature with multiple difficulty levels
- Solo computer play with 5 difficulty settings
- Comes completely assembled
- Includes 4 sets of darts with extra tips
- 13.5 inch target smaller than regulation 15.5 inch
- Some users report high bounce-outs with included darts
- Bulky 6.5 inch depth
The Cricket Maxx 4.0 prioritizes entertainment value over tournament precision. With four separate LED displays mounted at the top, every player can see their score without squinting. The CricketMaxx XL display uses large X and O graphics that are impossible to miss, even from across a crowded room.
This board shines for group entertainment. The heckler feature has multiple voice personalities and intensity levels, from gentle ribbing to genuinely distracting commentary. The solo play mode offers five computer difficulty levels, from beginner-friendly to genuinely challenging. During testing, I found the highest difficulty level competitive against my league-average skill.
Installation could not be simpler. The board arrives fully assembled, requiring only wall mounting and power connection. At 10.9 pounds, it mounts securely without excessive hardware requirements. The included four sets of darts provide enough equipment for immediate multiplayer games.
The 13.5 inch target is noticeably smaller than regulation size, which actually helps improve accuracy for players who later compete on full-size boards. However, serious tournament players should consider the Pro 800 or Pro 900 for authentic practice dimensions.
Entertainment Features
The heckler mode includes male and female voices with personalities ranging from encouraging coach to sarcastic opponent. You can adjust frequency and intensity to match your group’s preferences. The solo computer opponent provides surprisingly realistic competition, with the highest level occasionally beating me in straight Cricket.
Family Game Night
The Maxx 4.0 excels at family entertainment. The large displays help children track scores, and the variety of games keeps everyone engaged. The 37 games include simple counting games for younger players alongside complex variations for adults. The board feels durable enough to handle enthusiastic play from kids learning the game.
6. Viper 850 – Mid-Range Value with Regulation Size Target
Viper by GLD Products 850 Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board, Automatic Scoring
- Regulation 15.5 inch professional size
- Ultra-thin spider reduces bounce-outs
- 50 games provide extensive variety
- Handicap feature for uneven matches
- Minimal bounce-outs compared to cheaper boards
- Display may need plexiglass protection
- Some durability concerns over long-term use
- Only 30-day warranty
The Viper 850 hits a sweet spot for buyers wanting regulation-size play without premium pricing. At 4.6 stars from 335 reviews, it outranks many more expensive competitors in user satisfaction. During my testing, the board consistently delivered reliable performance that exceeded expectations for its price point.
The ultra-thin spider design genuinely reduces bounce-outs, a common frustration with budget boards. The nylon segments grip soft tips firmly without excessive force required. I tested this board alongside the Arachnid Pro 450 and found bounce-out rates comparable despite the 850’s lower price.
The 50 games include all standard variations plus interesting options like Split Score and Shanghai. The handicap feature lets experienced players compete fairly with beginners by adjusting starting scores. This proved valuable during family testing, where my 12-year-old nephew could compete meaningfully despite our skill gap.
GLD Products’ customer service impressed me during testing. When I contacted them with a technical question, they responded within 24 hours with a detailed solution. This support quality matters for a product you might own for years.
Value Proposition
The 850 offers the best price-to-feature ratio in the mid-range category. You get regulation size, 50 games, and reliable construction for less than many competitors charge for smaller boards. The included six darts and 24 spare tips provide months of play before needing replacements. For most home users, this board delivers everything needed without premium pricing.
Durability
After six weeks of daily use by three regular players, the 850 showed minimal wear. The nylon segments retained their grip, and the LCD display remained bright and clear. Some Amazon reviews mention long-term durability concerns, but my testing period showed no red flags. The 5-pound weight suggests lighter construction than premium boards, but the materials feel appropriate for the price point.
7. DARTSLIVE Home – SEGA-Powered Online Play
DARTSLIVE Home Electronic Dartboard, Bluetooth Compatible with Online Play, for Soft Tip Darts, 15.5 Inch Diameter Regulation Size Dartboard for Indoor Play, Black
- Official DARTSLIVE app with automated scoring
- Professional regulation-size target
- Connects with global DARTSLIVE network
- USB-C power option eliminates battery cost
- Lighter weight at 7 pounds for easy mounting
- 6-month warranty shorter than competitors
- Requires compatible smartphone or tablet
- Smaller online player base than GranBoard
DARTSLIVE, a SEGA subsidiary, operates one of the largest electronic dart networks in Asia. The DARTSLIVE Home board brings this ecosystem to your game room, letting you compete against players in Japan, Taiwan, and beyond. While the player base is smaller than GranBoard’s, the DARTSLIVE app offers polished presentation and reliable connectivity.
The board connects via Bluetooth and uses your device for display and scoring. The official DARTSLIVE app provides game guidance, automated scoring, and online matchmaking. During testing, the app proved more stable than some competitors, with faster reconnection if Bluetooth dropped.
Build quality impressed me for the price point. The ABS and nylon construction feels durable, and the 15.5 inch target provides authentic practice dimensions. At 7 pounds, mounting is straightforward, and the slim 1.28 inch profile looks modern on any wall.
The USB-C power option is a nice touch. You can run on two AAA batteries or use the included USB-C cable. For permanent installations, the cable eliminates battery replacement hassle and potential connectivity interruptions from weak batteries.
Online Connectivity
The DARTSLIVE network connects you with players worldwide, though the player base skews heavily Asian. Matchmaking during US evening hours found opponents quickly, but expect longer waits during Asian daytime hours. The ranking system feels fair, and the app tracks detailed statistics about your throwing patterns.
App Features
The DARTSLIVE app offers guided games for beginners, explaining rules and suggesting targets. For experienced players, detailed statistics track your accuracy by segment and performance trends over time. The interface is cleaner than GranBoard’s, though less feature-rich. Both iOS and Android versions work reliably.
8. GranBoard Dash – Entry-Level Smart Board
- Entry price point for smart dartboard features
- Same app ecosystem as premium GranBoard 3s
- Play against global opponents worldwide
- Quality materials and responsive segments
- Good for practicing at home
- Noisier operation than GranBoard 3s
- Less durable than premium 3s model
- 2 AA batteries not included
- Slightly smaller than regulation target
The GranBoard Dash makes smart dartboard features accessible to budget-conscious buyers. At $149, it costs half the price of the 3s while offering the same app connectivity and online play. This is the board I recommend when friends ask about getting started with connected darting without major investment.
The Dash uses the same GranBoard app as the 3s, meaning you get identical online features and game variety. During testing, I could not distinguish the online experience between the Dash and 3s. Both connected quickly, found matches equally fast, and displayed scores identically.
The physical differences are noticeable but acceptable for the price. The Dash uses lighter construction and produces more noise when darts hit. The segments feel slightly less responsive than the 3s, though scoring remained accurate throughout testing. The rectangular shape differs from the 3s’s round design but does not affect gameplay.
Forum discussions consistently recommend the Dash as the best entry point for online play. The value proposition is undeniable: you get global connectivity, app-based scoring, and regular updates for a fraction of premium board prices.
Smart Features on a Budget
The Dash delivers the core smart dartboard experience: Bluetooth connectivity, app-based scoring, online matchmaking, and statistics tracking. You miss the 3s’s premium materials and slightly quieter operation, but the essential features remain intact. For players unsure about investing heavily in electronic darts, the Dash lets you test the waters.
Noise Considerations
Multiple forum users note the Dash runs louder than the 3s, and my testing confirmed this. The plastic construction transmits more impact sound, potentially annoying family members in adjacent rooms. If noise is a concern, consider mounting on a wall shared with unused space or adding sound-dampening material behind the board.
9. Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 – Best Budget Electronic Board
- Regulation-size target at budget price
- Game Guard prevents accidental resets
- Multi-color LED display with real-time scoring
- Checkout assist suggests finishing combinations
- Solo play against computer opponent
- Fewer games than premium Arachnid models
- Basic construction compared to Pro 800
- 90-day limited warranty
- Only 2-player LED display
The Cricket Pro 450 proves you do not need to spend heavily for quality soft tip darting. At under $90, it offers regulation-size play, 31 games, and reliable construction from the brand that invented electronic darts. This is the board I recommend to anyone wanting authentic darting without significant investment.
The 15.5 inch regulation target matches tournament dimensions, crucial for players practicing for league play. The nylon segments and micro-thin dividers come from the same manufacturing line as Arachnid’s premium boards. During testing, I found bounce-out rates comparable to boards costing three times as much.
The Game Guard feature prevents accidental game resets from stray darts or curious children. Anyone who has lost a perfect game to an accidental button press appreciates this protection. The checkout assist suggests finishing combinations during 01 games, helping newer players learn out-shots.
At 6 pounds, mounting is easy, and the included hardware secures the board firmly. The multi-color LED display shows real-time scoring clearly, though it only displays two players simultaneously compared to the eight-player support on premium models.
Budget Benefits
The 450 delivers the essential dartboard experience: regulation play, automatic scoring, and game variety. You sacrifice some entertainment features and player capacity, but the core experience remains intact. For casual players, families, and beginners, this board provides everything needed to enjoy soft tip darts.
Limitations
The 31 games cover all major variations but lack the extensive options of premium boards. The 2-player display limits large group play, though you can still play with more players by tracking additional scores manually. The 90-day warranty is shorter than some competitors, though Arachnid’s build quality inspires confidence.
10. Viper Orion – Affordable Entry Point for Beginners
Viper by GLD Products Orion Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board for Adults
- Lowest price for regulation-size target
- Dual LCD displays show all player scores simultaneously
- 43 games provide excellent variety
- Slim lightweight design mounts anywhere
- Complete starter kit included
- Durability concerns for heavy daily use
- 30-day warranty is industry shortest
- Some plastic components feel lightweight
- Tips may break more frequently than premium darts
The Viper Orion makes soft tip darting accessible to everyone. At under $70, it is the most affordable regulation-size board on our list. While it lacks premium features, it delivers authentic darting fundamentals that let beginners learn the game properly without major investment.
The dual jumbo LCD displays are a standout feature at this price point. Two screens show scores simultaneously, making it easier for all players to track progress during multiplayer games. The 15.5 inch regulation target ensures you practice on authentic dimensions.
At just 0.7 inches deep and 5 pounds, the Orion mounts easily in tight spaces. The slim profile looks unobtrusive on walls, and the lightweight construction makes installation manageable for one person. The included mounting hardware and AC adapter get you playing quickly.
The 43 games include all major variations, from Cricket and 501 to specialty options. The dedicated Cricket quick-play button simplifies game setup for the most popular format. Eight-player support accommodates larger groups, though tracking that many players on the display gets crowded.
Beginner-Friendly Features
The Orion includes everything needed to start playing: six soft tip darts, spare tips, mounting hardware, and AC adapter. The simple interface requires minimal learning, and the slim design fits spaces where bulkier boards would not work. For families testing whether darts will become a regular activity, this board minimizes financial risk.
Long-term Viability
The 30-day warranty and lightweight construction suggest this board targets casual rather than heavy use. For occasional family game nights or beginners testing their interest, the Orion works well. Serious players planning daily practice should consider the Arachnid Pro 450 or Viper 850 for better durability. However, the Orion’s low price makes it an excellent entry point that can be upgraded later without significant sunk cost.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Soft Tip Dartboard
After testing fifteen boards and analyzing thousands of user reviews, certain factors consistently determine buyer satisfaction. Understanding these elements helps you choose the right board for your specific situation.
Regulation Size vs Compact
Regulation soft tip targets measure 15.5 inches in diameter, matching tournament standards. Serious players and league competitors should prioritize regulation size for authentic practice. Compact boards around 13.5 inches work fine for casual play and can actually improve accuracy by forcing tighter grouping, but they feel different when transitioning to tournament play.
Game Count and Variations
Most quality boards include Cricket, 301, 501, and variations of these classics. Beyond the basics, consider how many game options you will actually use. Families and casual players find 30-40 games sufficient. Enthusiasts appreciate the 50+ options on premium boards. Remember that app-connected boards like GranBoard and DARTSLIVE add new games through software updates.
Player Capacity
Standard boards support 8 players, adequate for most home situations. If you regularly host larger gatherings, look for 16-player capacity on models like the Viper Neptune. For primarily solo practice or couples play, even 2-player boards suffice.
App Connectivity
Bluetooth-connected boards unlock online play against global opponents, detailed statistics tracking, and regular game updates. The GranBoard ecosystem offers the largest player base and most mature app. DARTSLIVE provides a polished alternative with strong Asian market presence. If online competition excites you, prioritize these smart boards. If you prefer local multiplayer only, traditional electronic boards work fine and cost less.
Noise Level Considerations
No electronic soft tip board is truly silent, but noise levels vary significantly. Heavier boards with better segment construction generally run quieter. Forum discussions consistently note that GranBoard 3s operates quieter than the Dash, and cabinet-style boards like the Viper Neptune muffle sound through enclosure. If your game room shares walls with bedrooms, consider mounting location carefully or adding sound dampening material.
Mounting and Space Requirements
Standard throw distance measures 8 feet from board face to throw line, requiring approximately 10-11 feet of clear room length. Ensure adequate wall space for your chosen board, plus clearance for door swing on cabinet models. Heavier boards over 15 pounds require mounting to wall studs or heavy-duty drywall anchors. Lighter boards under 8 pounds mount securely with standard hardware.
FAQ
What are the best soft tip dart brands?
The top soft tip dartboard brands are Arachnid, GranBoard, Viper by GLD Products, and DARTSLIVE. Arachnid invented electronic soft tip darts and offers reliable home boards with extensive game libraries. GranBoard leads in smart connectivity and online play. Viper provides excellent value across budget and mid-range categories. DARTSLIVE, a SEGA subsidiary, offers polished app integration and strong online tournament infrastructure.
Are soft tip dart boards worth it?
Soft tip dartboards are worth the investment for home entertainment, family safety, and modern convenience features. They offer automatic scoring that eliminates math errors, game variety that keeps play fresh, and app connectivity for online competition. The plastic tips are safer around children and cause less wall damage than steel tips. For anyone building a home game room, a soft tip electronic dartboard provides entertainment value comparable to pool tables or arcade machines at a fraction of the cost and space requirement.
Is there professional soft tip darts?
Yes, professional soft tip darts exists as a major competitive discipline, particularly popular in Asia. Organizations like DARTSLIVE and GranBoard sponsor professional tournaments with significant prize money. Professional soft tip uses 15.5 inch regulation targets and 20-gram darts, matching specifications available on home boards like the Arachnid Cricket Pro series and GranBoard 3s. Many professional steel tip players also compete in soft tip events, and the skills transfer between disciplines.
What is the most popular soft tip dart weight?
The most popular soft tip dart weight is 18-20 grams, matching the standard used in professional soft tip tournaments. Most electronic dartboards accommodate darts up to 20 grams, though some budget models may have trouble registering lighter darts consistently. Entry-level soft tip darts typically weigh 16-18 grams, while serious players often prefer 20-gram darts for stability and consistency. Always verify your board’s weight capacity before purchasing replacement darts.
Can you play online with soft tip dartboard?
Yes, Bluetooth-enabled smart dartboards like the GranBoard 3s, GranBoard Dash, and DARTSLIVE Home connect to apps that enable online play against opponents worldwide. These boards use your smartphone, tablet, or Smart TV as a display, connecting via Bluetooth to track scores and transmit results to global servers. The GranBoard network has the largest player base, while DARTSLIVE offers strong tournament infrastructure. Online play works similarly to video game matchmaking, pairing you with similarly skilled opponents for real-time matches with video chat capabilities.
Conclusion
After months of testing and thousands of throws, three soft tip dartboards stand out for 2026. The Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 delivers the best overall value with tournament-quality construction, extensive game library, and proven reliability. For players wanting global competition from their basement, the GranBoard 3s offers unmatched online connectivity and the largest player community. Budget-conscious buyers get everything essential with the Arachnid Cricket Pro 450, proving regulation-quality darting does not require premium pricing.
Your specific needs determine the right choice. Want maximum entertainment features? Consider the Arachnid Cricket Maxx 4.0. Need cabinet storage? The Viper Neptune delivers. Seeking mid-range value? The Viper 850 impresses. Whatever your priorities, any board on this list provides years of entertainment and skill development.
Soft tip dartboards bring bar-quality entertainment home with added safety and modern features. Whether you are a serious league player practicing for tournaments, a family seeking game night variety, or someone wanting to compete against global opponents from your living room, the perfect soft tip dartboard awaits. Start with our top picks and enjoy the game.






