Steel Tip vs Soft Tip Darts: Which Should You Choose?

When you start playing darts, one question always comes up: should you play steel tip or soft tip? The answer depends on your playing context, goals and the type of board available. Here's a complete comparison to help you decide.

The Two Dart Families

Steel Tip

Steel tip darts are the historical standard. They stick into sisal (compressed natural fibre) dartboards using a sharpened metal point.

Characteristics:

• Hardened steel point (25-35mm)
• Sisal (bristle) dartboard
• Manual or camera-based scoring
• Typical weight: 20-28g

Soft Tip

Soft tip darts are designed for electronic dartboards. The flexible plastic point slots into holes on the board, which automatically detects the scoring zone.

Characteristics:

• Plastic/nylon point (replaceable)
• Electronic board with sensors
• Automatic scoring
• Typical weight: 16-20g

Detailed Comparison

Accuracy and Feel

Steel tip offers a more authentic and direct feel. The dart plants firmly into the sisal, and bounceouts are less frequent than in soft tip. Electronic boards can occasionally misread a zone, which frustrates some players.

Durability

Sisal boards have excellent longevity (several years) if properly maintained. Electronic boards are more mechanically fragile, but segments are replaceable. On the dart side, soft tip points break regularly and need replacing (just a few pence each).

Noise

An often-overlooked advantage of soft tip: the noise is significantly lower. This is an important factor if you play at home in a flat.

Competition

In France, the majority of amateur pub tournaments use steel tip on sisal boards. This is the format favoured by the FFD and regional leagues. However, soft tip tournaments also exist, particularly in bar chains equipped with connected electronic boards.

Price

Which Choice for Which Player?

Choose steel tip if:

• You mainly play in pubs or clubs
• You're aiming for amateur competition
• You enjoy the traditional playing feel
• You want to join tournaments listed on FindMyDarts

Choose soft tip if:

• You mainly play at home or with friends
• You prefer automatic scoring
• Noise is a constraint
• You play in bars with electronic boards

Can You Play Both?

Absolutely! Many players own both types. Some barrels are even compatible with both tip types thanks to a conversion system (adapter). It's a practical solution if you alternate between sisal pubs and home sessions with an electronic board.

In Summary

If you're starting out and plan to play in pubs, go with steel tip. It's the dominant format in France, used in amateur tournaments, and gives the best playing feel. Check out our guide to choosing your first darts for more details.

Ready to test your darts in real conditions? Find a tournament near you with FindMyDarts and discover your level!