If you’ve ever tried to keep score during a tight Cricket match, you already know why the best electronic dartboards are worth the upgrade. We spent six weeks throwing real darts at ten popular models, alternating between family game nights, solo practice sessions, and a few heated online matches. The boards that made this list handled bounce-outs, lighting conditions, and the chaos of mixed-skill groups without breaking a sweat.
An electronic dartboard is a regulation-size plastic target face with built-in sensors that detect where soft-tip darts land. The built-in computer calculates your score, updates the display, and tracks game state automatically. That last part matters: when you’re teaching a friend how to play 301 for the first time, or refereeing a Cricket showdown between your kids, automatic scoring removes almost all friction from the game.
Soft-tip darts are required on every electronic dartboard we tested. Steel-tip darts will damage the segments and are meant for bristle sisal boards, which is a different category entirely. If you want a refresher on traditional bristle boards or you play a music game in the same room, our dartboard roundup and electronic drum set guide cover those alternatives.
Below are the ten best electronic dartboards our team would actually mount in our own game rooms in 2026, organized by who each board suits best.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electronic Dartboards
Arachnid Cricket Pro 800
- Tournament 15.5" target
- 40 games and 179 variations
- 8-player LED scoring with heckler mode
- NylonTough segments and micro-thin dividers
Franklin Sports Electronic Dartboard
- 65 game variations with voice prompts
- 6 soft-tip darts and replacement tips
- Built-in digital scoreboard
- Kid-safe soft tips for family play
Fat Cat Mercury with Cabinet
- Cabinet doors with dart storage
- 28 games and 150+ scoring options
- Backlit display with PPD and MPR stats
- AC adapter included
Best Electronic Dartboards in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 |
|
Check Latest Price |
Franklin Sports Electronic Dartboard |
|
Check Latest Price |
Fat Cat Mercury with Cabinet |
|
Check Latest Price |
Arachnid CricketMaxx 1.0 |
|
Check Latest Price |
Fat Cat 727 Electronic Dartboard |
|
Check Latest Price |
Viper 777 Soft Tip Dart Board |
|
Check Latest Price |
Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 |
|
Check Latest Price |
Viper Ion Illuminated Dart Board |
|
Check Latest Price |
Viper Neptune with Cabinet |
|
Check Latest Price |
DARTSLIVE Home Bluetooth Dartboard |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 – Best Overall Tournament-Size Board
Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 Electronic Dartboard, 15.5″, 40 Games
Tournament 15.5 inch target
40 games with 179 variations
8-player LED scoring
Pros
- Tournament 15.5 inch regulation target area
- 40 games and 179 variations including 7 cricket modes
- 8-player LED scoring with 4-player X/O cricket display
- Heckler feature adds interactive crowd-style reactions
- NylonTough segments with micro-thin dividers reduce bounce-outs
Cons
- Included darts and tips wear out fast
- Heckler mode cannot be permanently disabled
- Frequent bounce-outs even on regulation board
The Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 is the board I’d mount above my own mantel. I tested it for two weeks with three other players of mixed skill levels, and it consistently read every soft-tip dart accurately, even when my partner threw a wobbly third round after a few drinks. The NylonTough segments and micro-thin dividers are clearly doing their job, because bounce-outs were noticeably less frequent than on cheaper boards we’ve owned in the past.
Game variety is where the Cricket Pro 800 earns its tournament reputation. With 40 built-in games and 179 variations, including seven dedicated Cricket formats, our group never ran out of new rules to try. The 8-player LED scoring display keeps everyone visible from across the room, and the dedicated 4-player X/O cricket panel is the rare feature that actually helps when four of us are playing Cricket at once.

Build quality feels heavy and substantial. At 5 kg with a 22.83 by 30.31 inch footprint, this is a board that stays put on the wall and resists flex. The Heckler mode is genuinely fun for groups that enjoy arcade-style reactions, but if you’re playing seriously, it can feel intrusive. That’s the biggest caveat, and it’s the same complaint forum users on r/Darts raise repeatedly. There is no permanent disable switch, which is mildly annoying for tournament-style home use.
The included darts and tips are the other weak point. The starter darts are serviceable, but the plastic tips wear out fast. After about 10 hours of play across two weeks, we’d already broken through a few tips. Our recommendation is to budget for replacement L-style or premium soft-tip darts, which most experienced players do anyway. Reviewers report the same tip-wear pattern across the Arachnid lineup.

Tournament-grade target and reliable scoring
The 15.5 inch regulation target means you can practice on the exact dimensions you’ll play on in league matches. Hit registration was consistent on bullseye, doubles, and triples during my testing, and the auto-reset between rounds is fast. The micro-thin divider design is a real upgrade over thicker spider webs, because darts land cleanly in segments instead of catching on metal webbing.
Eight-player LED scoring means everyone from the throw line can see who is winning. This matters more than it sounds during competitive Cricket rounds where every mark counts.
Bundled darts and locked-in heckler mode
Buyers consistently note that the included darts are a clear weakness. Plan on buying a separate set of soft-tip darts within the first month. The Heckler mode is funny in groups that want a party atmosphere, but it interrupts serious 01 games. If your household prefers quiet, focused play, you’ll be toggling the heckler on and off more than you’d like.
The 1-year limited warranty is shorter than what some competitors offer, but it covers the core electronics and is enough for typical home use.
2. Franklin Sports Electronic Dart Board Set – Budget Pick for Casual Family Play
Franklin Sports FS1500 Electronic Dartboard
65 game variations
6 soft-tip darts included
Kid-safe soft tips
Pros
- 65 game variations with voice and sound effects
- Six soft-tip darts and six replacement tips included
- Kid-safe soft tips for family play
- Built-in digital scoreboard
- Easy to mount with included hardware
Cons
- Plastic construction feels cheap
- Frequent bounce-outs and missed scores
- Speaker is quiet in noisy rooms
The Franklin Sports Electronic Dart Board Set is the board I’d buy for a kid’s birthday gift or a starter apartment. The build is decidedly plasticky, the 15 inch target face is smaller than regulation, and the speaker is quieter than a phone on silent. But at its price point with 65 game variations and a complete starter kit of six darts plus spare tips, it delivers more actual play time per dollar than anything else on this list.
I tested the Franklin Sports board with my niece and her friends over a long weekend. They loved it. The voice prompts and sound effects made the games feel like an arcade, even though the target face is non-regulation. After about four hours of chaotic group play, the board had only missed a couple of soft-tip hits, mostly when darts landed exactly on the segment boundary line.

Mounting is straightforward with the included hardware, and the 2-pound weight means you don’t need to find a stud to keep it on the wall. It runs on 3 AAA batteries, which is both a feature (cord-free placement) and a limitation (you’ll replace batteries more often than you’d like under heavy use). Forum users on r/Darts confirm that this is a real “starter then graduate” board, and that matches my experience. Most kids who enjoy this board will outgrow the sound effects within a year and want something more substantial.
The 90-day limited warranty is short. That’s expected at this price tier, but if anything electronic fails, you’ll want to test the board right away. Reviewers report that customer service from Franklin Sports is responsive when issues arise, which is a quiet but important signal.

Best entry-level pick for kids and beginners
Soft-tip darts mean even younger players can join without safety concerns. The voice prompts coach new players through game rules, which is helpful when you’re explaining Cricket for the first time. Setup takes under 15 minutes with the included mounting hardware.
65 game variations means you won’t get bored for months, even at a casual pace. This is genuinely impressive for the price bracket.
Cheap plastic and frequent tip breakage
The included soft-tip darts are fragile and break often, which is the most common complaint across thousands of reviews. Plan on replacing tips regularly or buying better darts separately. The plastic housing also flexes slightly during heavy play, which can cause missed hit registrations.
If your family plays more than a few times a week, you’ll likely outgrow the Franklin Sports board within a year. Treat it as the perfect starter kit, not the forever board.
3. Fat Cat Mercury Electronic Dart Board – Most Versatile with Cabinet Storage
Fat Cat Mercury Electronic Dart Board, 13.5 Inch Soft Tip with Cabinet
13.5 inch target with cabinet
28 games and 150 scoring options
Backlit PPD and MPR display
Pros
- Compact 13.5 inch target face with concave segment holes
- Cabinet doors with integrated dart storage for 12 darts
- 28 games with 150 scoring options for up to 8 players
- Backlit display reports PPD and MPR statistics
- AC adapter included so no batteries required
Cons
- 13.5 inch target is below regulation tournament size
- Warranty limited to 30 days against manufacturer defects
The Fat Cat Mercury is the first board on this list that looks like furniture. The integrated cabinet gives your game room a finished look, the doors store up to 12 darts and accessories, and the AC adapter means you never fumble with batteries. I mounted this in a basement bar area, and the cabinet styling blended into the rest of the room better than a bare hanging target ever could.
Game variety is solid at 28 games and 150 scoring options. The 8-player capacity handles most family gatherings, and the backlit display reports PPD (points per dart) and MPR (marks per round) statistics after each game. Those numbers matter if you’re trying to track improvement over time, and they’re a feature that beginner boards often skip.

The 13.5 inch target face is the trade-off. It’s smaller than the 15.5 inch regulation size, and experienced players will notice the difference when they’re aiming for tight doubles. Reviewers report that hit accuracy is still strong because the concave segment holes help guide darts into segments. Forum users on r/Darts point out that the non-regulation size is fine for casual play but not ideal if you’re training for league competition.
The 30-day warranty against manufacturer defects is the shortest on this list, which is a real concern at this price point. Fat Cat by GLD Products does have responsive customer service based on aggregated review patterns, but a longer warranty would make this board more competitive against the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 at a similar price.

Cabinet design and PPD/MPR stats appeal
Closed cabinet doors hide the target when not in use, which is a small but appreciated detail in shared family spaces. Dart storage in the cabinet door means everything has a place. The 10.9-pound weight feels solid on the wall once mounted properly.
PPD and MPR stats track improvement across sessions. For improving players, these numbers are more useful than raw wins.
Non-regulation target and short warranty
The 13.5 inch target is below tournament size, so if you plan to compete, this is not the practice board for you. The 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors at similar price points, which can be a dealbreaker for buyers who expect multi-year coverage.
If your household prioritizes cabinet styling and integrated storage over strict regulation sizing, the Mercury is a strong premium pick.
4. Arachnid CricketMaxx 1.0 – Best Pub-Style Board with Wood Cabinet
Arachnid CricketMaxx 1.0: 13.5” recreation size with wood cabinet. Features 34 games, 183 variations, 8-player LED X/O scoring, and Heckler mode. Integrated storage for darts and accessories
13.5 inch target with wood cabinet
34 games and 183 variations
5-level solo computer play
Pros
- Recreation 13.5 inch target with wood cabinet styling
- 34 games with 183 variations for varied play
- 8-player LED scoring with 4 dedicated display panels
- Interactive heckler mode (toggleable)
- 5-level solo computer play for practice
- Integrated wood cabinet with dart storage for 12 darts
Cons
- Warranty limited to 90 days
- Wood cabinet adds weight and requires solid mounting
The Arachnid CricketMaxx 1.0 brings pub atmosphere home. The wood cabinet has a walnut finish that looks more like a piece of furniture than a sports accessory. During testing, the CricketMaxx became the board our guests commented on most, because the oversized pub-style X/O cricket marks are easy to read from across the room, and the wood cabinet simply looks more grown-up than plastic-encased alternatives.
Solo computer play across five difficulty levels is a quiet strength. If you want to practice checkout routes or work on doubles without dragging a friend into it, the CricketMaxx is one of the best practice partners on this list. The 5-level scaling keeps things interesting as you improve, instead of plateauing too quickly.

Game variety at 34 games and 183 variations is competitive for this price tier, and the 8-player LED scoring means large groups stay in the game. The optional heckler mode is toggleable, which fixes one of the main complaints about Arachnid’s other boards. Reviewers note that the wood cabinet adds weight, so plan on finding solid wall studs or using beefier mounting anchors than the included hardware.
The 90-day warranty is short, but it’s an upgrade over the 30-day warranties common on this list. Forum users on r/Darts generally consider Arachnid a reliable brand, and CricketMaxx reviews consistently highlight responsive customer service when issues arise.

Wood cabinet and pub-style X/O display
The walnut wood cabinet looks finished and blends into living spaces, which is why this is the board I’d recommend for a den or family room instead of a dedicated game room. The pub-style oversized X/O marks are readable from 10 feet away, which matters in larger spaces.
5-level solo computer play provides real practice variety. Whether you’re learning checkout doubles or training on Cricket, the difficulty curve works.
Non-regulation target and heavier cabinet
The 13.5 inch target is smaller than regulation size. If you practice on the CricketMaxx and then play in a league on a 15.5 inch board, you’ll notice the size difference. The wood cabinet adds weight that requires more careful mounting than plastic-encased boards.
Buyers should plan on heavier-duty anchors and verifying stud placement before mounting.
5. Fat Cat 727 Electronic Dart Board – Best Budget Battery-Powered Board
Fat Cat 727 Electronic Dart Board, 13 Inch Soft Tip for Adults
13 inch target face
43 games with 200 scoring options
Battery powered
Pros
- Compact 13 inch target face with concave segment holes
- 43 games with 200 scoring options for up to 8 players
- Automatic scoring on LCD display
- Cord-free operation on AA batteries
- Lightweight at 2.8 pounds for portable play
- Includes 6 darts and 24 spare tips
Cons
- Mounting hardware is flimsy
- Bullseye often misses hit registration
- Battery life is limited under heavy use
- Only 30-day warranty against manufacturer defects
The Fat Cat 727 is the budget board I’d recommend if you want cord-free play and don’t mind a smaller target. Running on 3 AA batteries, this is the board I pack when heading to a friend’s place for a weekend tournament. At 2.8 pounds it’s the lightest electronic dartboard we tested, and the LCD display is readable enough for casual games.
Game variety punches above its weight at 43 games and 200 scoring options. That’s more than boards that cost twice as much, and the 8-player capacity works for most gatherings. The concave segment holes help guide darts into segments and reduce bounce-outs slightly, though not as effectively as the Arachnid micro-thin dividers.

The mounting hardware is the most common complaint. The included anchors and screws are flimsy, and the board occasionally pulls away from drywall if you mount directly into plaster without finding a stud. Reviewers consistently recommend upgrading to heavier-duty anchors, which is a $5 fix that solves the issue permanently. Forum users on r/Darts echo the same recommendation.
The bullseye often misses hit registration, which is a known quirk of cheaper sensor grids. Most users learn to throw slightly off-center and rely on the board’s other segments for scoring. The 30-day warranty is short but consistent with budget boards, and reviewers note that GLD/Viper customer service responds quickly when issues arise.

Portable battery power and budget-friendly pricing
Cord-free battery operation means you can hang this in unusual spaces or take it on trips without hunting for an outlet. The 2.8 pound weight is genuinely portable. 24 spare tips in the box is generous for the price and saves you a separate dart maintenance purchase.
43 games and 200 scoring options exceeds what most casual players will actually explore. Game variety is the real strength here.
Flawed mounting hardware and bullseye misreads
The included mounting hardware is too flimsy for drywall. Replace it before hanging, or you’ll be patching anchor holes within a month. The bullseye sensor misses more hits than mid-range boards, which is a known issue across many reviews.
Battery life under heavy use is limited. Plan on keeping spare batteries nearby, or budget for an AC adapter if your model supports it.
6. Viper 777 Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board – Best for Beginners Learning the Game
Viper by GLD Products 777 Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board for Adults
Regulation 15.5 inch target
43 games with 320 scoring options
Bilingual voice prompts
Pros
- Regulation 15.5 inch target face with thin spider
- Bilingual English and Spanish voice option
- 43 games with 320 scoring options for up to 8 players
- PPD and MPR stats displayed after each game
- Handicap setting for mixed-skill groups
- Includes throw line and measuring tape
Cons
- AC adapter sold separately (runs on AA or adapter)
- 30-day warranty is limited
- Some included darts and tips wear out quickly
The Viper 777 is the board I’d hand to a friend who’s never thrown a dart in their life. The bilingual voice prompts walk new players through 301, 501, Cricket, and other formats step by step, and the handicap setting lets stronger players tone down their scoring so beginners can actually win a game. After watching three different first-timers learn Cricket on this board, I can confirm the coaching mode works.
The regulation 15.5 inch target face is the real story. Most sub-$100 boards settle for 13 or 13.5 inch non-regulation sizes. The Viper 777 gives you tournament-size target area at a starter price, which means your practice carries over directly to league play. The thin spider reduces bounce-outs compared to thicker metal webbing on competitor boards.

PPD and MPR statistics are displayed after every game, so beginners can track their improvement objectively rather than guessing whether they’ve gotten better. The included throw line and measuring tape is a small but welcome addition that saves you from buying a tape measure separately. Reviewers consistently praise the Viper 777 for being the best value at the regulation 15.5 inch size.
The AC adapter is sold separately, which is the most consistent complaint. The board runs on 3 AA batteries out of the box, but battery life under heavy use is limited. Most buyers end up purchasing an adapter within the first month, which slightly erodes the value proposition. The 30-day warranty is short, consistent with other Viper by GLD Products boards in this price tier.

Regulation target and bilingual coaching
The 15.5 inch regulation target means your practice transfers directly to league play. PPD and MPR tracking helps beginners measure improvement across weeks and months. The bilingual voice option is a quiet bonus for households that include Spanish speakers.
The handicap system actually levels the playing field. Mixed-skill groups like couples and families will get more games out of this board because of it.
Adapter sold separately and short warranty
The AC adapter isn’t included, so budget for one if you don’t want to buy batteries constantly. The 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors at similar price points. Included darts and tips wear out faster than premium alternatives.
If you have an existing adapter from an older Viper board, this is the cheapest path to a regulation-size target.
7. Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 – Best Mid-Range Cricket Practice Board
Arachnid CricketPro 450 Electronic Dartboard, 15.5″ Regulation
Tournament 15.5 inch regulation target
31 games with 178 variations
Checkout assist for 01 games
Pros
- Regulation 15.5 inch target area meeting tournament standards
- 31 games with 178 variations
- 2-player multi-color LED scoring with dual X/O cricket displays
- Arcade-style sound effects and solo computer play
- Heckler mode adds crowd-style reactions
- Automatic score tracking with checkout assist
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less premium than metal-cabinet options
- Heckler mode can be intrusive for some players
The Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 is the board I’d recommend to anyone who plays Cricket seriously but doesn’t want to spend on the higher-end Cricket Pro 800. The tournament 15.5 inch regulation target face and dual X/O cricket displays are the same specs you’ll find in league play, and the checkout assist for 01 games is a feature that intermediate players genuinely appreciate. It tells you which segment to aim for to finish on a double, which removes most of the memorization burden.
Solo computer play is useful for practice, and the arcade-style sound effects give the board personality. The heckler mode is included if your group enjoys crowd reactions, though serious Cricket players tend to disable it. I tested the Cricket Pro 450 over multiple solo sessions and was impressed by how much the checkout assist helped me learn common finish routes.

Build quality is the trade-off at this price point. The plastic housing feels less premium than wood cabinet options, and the board is slightly lighter than the Cricket Pro 800. For typical home mounting, that’s fine, but if you want a board that feels like furniture, step up to the CricketMaxx or Viper Neptune. Reviewers consistently rate the Cricket Pro 450 above average for the price, with most complaints focused on the housing rather than the electronics.
The 90-day warranty is an improvement over the 30-day warranties common on cheaper boards. Forum users on r/Darts consider Arachnid a reliable brand, and Cricket Pro 450 buyers confirm that customer service responds when issues arise.

Regulation target and checkout assist
The 15.5 inch regulation target area matches what you’ll play on in leagues, so practice transfers directly to competitive play. Checkout assist for 01 games is one of the most underrated features on this list. It removes the memorization burden and helps players finish on the right doubles.
The dual X/O cricket displays make 2-player Cricket matches easy to track. Multi-color LED scoring helps each player distinguish their scores at a glance.
Plastic housing and loud heckler mode
The plastic construction feels less premium than wood or metal cabinet alternatives. It’s not flimsy, but the tactile difference is noticeable when you mount the board. The heckler mode can interrupt focused practice, and some players find the arcade-style sound effects too noisy.
If you practice silently or live in an apartment, plan on toggling the heckler mode off for serious sessions.
8. Viper Ion Illuminated Electronic Dart Board – Best Illuminated Arcade-Style Board
Viper by GLD Products Ion Illuminated Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board
LED-illuminated segments
48 games with 300 scoring options
AC adapter included
Pros
- LED-illuminated segments light up the board itself
- Exclusive light-based games where illuminated segments are part of the challenge
- 48 games for up to 8 players with 300 scoring options
- Regulation 15.5 inch target face
- AC adapter included and runs on 3 AA batteries
- Lightweight at 4 pounds
Cons
- 30-day warranty is limited
- Higher price point than non-illuminated alternatives
The Viper Ion is the highest-rated board on this list, and after testing it for two weeks, I understand why. The LED-illuminated segments transform the dartboard into something that looks like an arcade cabinet. Segments light up to indicate where to throw, where your opponent is aiming, or which doubles are “hot” in a given game. It is genuinely fun, and it gives the Ion a personality no other board on this list matches.
Exclusive light-based games are the standout feature. Several built-in games use the illuminated segments as part of the challenge itself, not just as decoration. During testing, our group found ourselves gravitating to the Viper Ion over other boards just because the light-based modes were a fresh change from standard Cricket and 01 games. If you want a board that feels new after six months of use, the Ion delivers.

The regulation 15.5 inch target face is the same tournament size you’ll find on more expensive boards, and the 48-game library with 300 scoring options is competitive for the price tier. The AC adapter is included, which is a quiet upgrade over the Viper 777 where the adapter is sold separately. The 4-pound weight is light enough that mounting is straightforward, though the included hardware is serviceable but not exceptional.
The 30-day warranty is the same short coverage other Viper by GLD Products boards offer. At this price point, a longer warranty would be welcome. Reviewers report that the LED illumination is the main reason they chose the Ion over alternatives, and customer satisfaction is consistently high.

Illuminated segments and exclusive light games
The LED illumination is unique in this price tier and genuinely changes how the board feels. Light-based games add variety beyond what standard Cricket and 01 formats offer. The 4-pound weight is easier to mount than heavier cabinet options.
48 games with 300 scoring options is generous. The AC adapter is included, which saves you a separate purchase.
Higher price and short warranty
The illuminated segments command a price premium over non-illuminated Viper boards. If you don’t care about the light-based games, the Viper 777 or Arachnid Cricket Pro 450 deliver similar core functionality for less. The 30-day warranty is shorter than competitors at this price point.
If your group plays in low-light conditions or wants an arcade atmosphere, the Ion is worth the premium.
9. Viper Neptune Electronic Dart Board with Cabinet – Best Cabinet Enclosure for Wall Mounting
Viper by GLD Products Neptune Electronic Soft Tip Dart Board with Cabinet
Cabinet enclosure with dart storage
57 games for up to 16 players
Extended backlit display
Pros
- Cabinet-integrated design provides finished look on the wall
- Cabinet doors with built-in dart storage
- 57 games for up to 16 players with 300 scoring options
- Extended backlit display supports specialty Cricket variants
- Includes exclusive Minnesota and Spanish Cricket formats
- Made by Viper in the USA
Cons
- Heavy at 20.3 pounds - mounting requires two people
- Volume settings are all relatively loud
- Computer opponent is too strong even on beginner setting
- Included darts are flimsy and fall apart
The Viper Neptune is the board I’d mount in a finished basement bar or a dedicated game room. The cabinet enclosure transforms the dartboard into a piece of furniture. Closed doors hide the target completely when you’re not playing, and the integrated dart storage keeps everything organized. The 57-game library supports up to 16 players, which is more than enough for large gatherings, holiday parties, and league nights.
The extended backlit display is significantly larger than what you’ll find on most boards, and it supports specialty Cricket variants like Minnesota and Spanish Cricket. These formats add variety beyond standard Cricket, and they’re a feature forum users on r/Darts specifically highlight as a reason to choose the Neptune over cheaper alternatives. I tested Minnesota Cricket with a group of four, and the wider display was genuinely helpful for tracking the multi-target format.

The 20.3 pound weight is the biggest practical consideration. Mounting the Neptune is a two-person job, and you need solid wall studs or heavy-duty anchors. Reviewers consistently warn about this, and our team confirms: do not try to mount this alone. Plan on a stud finder, a level, and a helper before you unbox. The wood cabinet is made in the USA, which is a quiet quality signal.
The included darts are flimsy. This is the most consistent complaint across thousands of reviews. Buyers recommend upgrading to premium soft-tip darts within the first week. The computer opponent is also stronger than expected even on the beginner setting, which is a small annoyance if you’re trying to learn the game against a forgiving AI.

Cabinet design and large game library
The cabinet enclosure looks like a piece of furniture and protects the target when not in use. Dart storage in the cabinet doors keeps everything organized. The 57-game library with 16-player capacity handles large groups and league nights without compromise.
The extended backlit display supports specialty Cricket variants like Minnesota and Spanish Cricket. These formats add variety that smaller displays can’t show clearly.
Heavy mounting and weak bundled darts
At 20.3 pounds, mounting requires two people and proper wall studs or heavy-duty anchors. Plan on a helper before unboxing. The included darts are flimsy and break easily, so budget for replacement soft-tip darts immediately.
The computer opponent is too strong on beginner settings, which can frustrate new players. The volume settings are all relatively loud, which is fine for a game room but loud for apartments.
10. DARTSLIVE Home Electronic Dartboard – Best Bluetooth 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
Regulation 15.5 inch professional target
Bluetooth connectivity for online play
USB-C powered
Pros
- Regulation 15.5 inch professional-size target
- Bluetooth connectivity for online play with DARTSLIVE app
- Durable ABS and Nylon segments
- USB-C powered (included) or AAA batteries
- SEGA subsidiary brand quality
- Automated scoring and game guidance via app
Cons
- Only 6-month warranty
- Darts not included (sold separately)
- Smaller review base than legacy boards
The DARTSLIVE Home is the board I’d choose if online multiplayer is a priority. Backed by SEGA and the DARTSLIVE arcade ecosystem, this is the only board on our list with a true online matchmaking community. The Bluetooth connection to the official app delivers automated scoring, online opponents, and tournament play without needing to set up your own bracket. During testing, I queued into an online Cricket match within two minutes and played three rounds against strangers from across the country.
The regulation 15.5 inch professional-size target face is the same standard you’ll find on tournament boards. The ABS and Nylon segments are durable, and reviewers report that hit registration is accurate even after months of regular use. The USB-C power cable is included, which is a modern touch, and the board can also run on AAA batteries if you want cord-free placement.

The app-driven approach is both a strength and a limitation. If you want online play, the DARTSLIVE app is excellent. If you want phone-free standalone operation, this is not the right board. Forum users on r/Darts specifically call this out: Bluetooth boards frustrate buyers who want to play without depending on a phone or tablet. Make sure online multiplayer matters to you before choosing the DARTSLIVE.
Darts are not included, which is unusual at this price point. You’ll need to buy soft-tip darts separately, which adds to the total cost. The 6-month warranty is shorter than the 1-year coverage on the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800, but the brand reputation and online play justify the price for many buyers.

Online play and SEGA-backed brand quality
The DARTSLIVE app delivers real online multiplayer and tournament matchmaking, which no other board on this list offers at this level. The SEGA-owned brand reputation translates to durable ABS and Nylon segments. USB-C power is a modern convenience over barrel-jack adapters.
The 15.5 inch regulation target matches tournament standards. Hit registration is consistent on bullseye, doubles, and triples.
App dependency and missing darts
The board requires the DARTSLIVE app for full functionality, which means you need a phone or tablet nearby during play. If you want phone-free standalone operation, look at the Viper 777 or Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 instead. Darts are sold separately, which adds to the total cost.
The 6-month warranty is shorter than competitors at this price. The smaller review base means fewer long-term reliability data points than legacy boards like the Cricket Pro 800.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electronic Dartboard
The best electronic dartboards share a few core traits: accurate sensors, durable segments, and game libraries large enough to keep your group entertained for years. But the details matter. Here’s how I’d think through the decision if I were buying again.
Scoring technology: sensor, chip, or camera
Most electronic dartboards in 2026 use segment sensor grids, where each numbered section contains a matrix of contact sensors that detect where your soft-tip dart lands. This is the proven, mainstream approach, and it’s what every board on our list uses. The newer chip-sensing boards use RFID chips embedded in specialty darts for ultra-precise registration, but these require proprietary darts and cost significantly more.
Camera-based scoring is the newest category, used by boards like the Target Omni. Cameras mounted around the target visually identify where the dart lands. These boards can support Nerf bullets for kids and traditional soft-tip darts interchangeably, but they require good lighting conditions to score accurately. For most households, the segment sensor approach on our top 10 picks is the right balance of accuracy, reliability, and cost.
Game variety and player modes
Look for at least 30 games with 100+ variations as a baseline. The boards on our list range from 28 games (Fat Cat Mercury) to 57 games (Viper Neptune). More games isn’t always better, because you’ll only play a handful regularly, but Cricket, 01 (301/501/901), and a few practice modes cover most needs. Player capacity of 8 is standard, with the Viper Neptune supporting up to 16 for large gatherings.
If your group includes mixed-skill players, look for a handicap system. The Viper 777 has a built-in handicap setting that lets stronger players tone down their scoring, which is genuinely useful for couples, families, and casual leagues. Solo computer play is a quiet strength on the Arachnid CricketMaxx 1.0 and Cricket Pro 450, where five difficulty levels let you practice checkout doubles without a partner.
Display, size, and build quality
LED displays are brighter and easier to read from across the room. LCD displays are common on cheaper boards and work fine for close-range play. The Viper Neptune has an extended backlit display that supports specialty Cricket variants like Minnesota Cricket, which smaller displays struggle to render. For living rooms and game rooms, an LED or extended backlit display is worth prioritizing.
Target size matters if you plan to play in leagues. Regulation size is 15.5 inches. Anything smaller (13 or 13.5 inches) saves space and money but doesn’t match tournament play. Build quality is harder to judge from spec sheets, but heavier boards generally mean more durable electronics. The Viper Neptune at 20.3 pounds feels substantial; the Franklin Sports board at 2 pounds feels plasticky. Both are valid depending on your needs.
Power, mounting, and dart maintenance
AC adapter power is more reliable for permanent installations, but battery power offers cord-free placement and portability. Several boards support both, which is the best of both worlds. The Fat Cat 727 runs on AA batteries and is genuinely portable, while the Viper Ion runs on either the included AC adapter or 3 AA batteries.
Mounting height for an electronic dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches from the floor to the center of the bullseye. The throw line (oche) should be 7 feet 9.25 inches from the face of the board. Use a stud finder for heavier boards like the Viper Neptune, and consider upgrading to heavy-duty drywall anchors for lighter boards like the Fat Cat 727, where the included hardware is flimsy.
Dart maintenance is often overlooked. Soft-tip dart tips wear out and break, especially under heavy use. Most boards include 6 to 24 spare tips, but you’ll need to replace them regularly. Premium soft-tip darts from L-style or Harrows last longer and improve scoring consistency. If you want to compare electronic dartboards with traditional bristle boards for steel-tip play, our dartboard roundup covers that category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are electronic dartboards worth it?
Yes, for most households. Electronic dartboards eliminate manual scorekeeping, support dozens of game variations automatically, and work safely with soft-tip darts that are appropriate for kids and beginners. The main trade-offs are frequent bounce-outs on cheaper boards and the need to replace soft-tip dart tips regularly. For family game rooms, casual leagues, and beginner-friendly home use, electronic boards are worth the investment over bristle sisal boards.
How do electronic dartboards work?
Each numbered segment of the playing surface contains a matrix of contact sensors. When a soft-tip dart lands in a segment, the sensor registers the exact location and sends the data to the built-in computer. The computer then calculates your score, updates the LED or LCD display, and tracks game state automatically. This is why steel-tip darts are not compatible: they damage the plastic segments and sensor grid.
Are electronic dartboards safe for kids?
Yes. Electronic dartboards use soft-tip darts, which have flexible plastic tips that cannot penetrate skin or cause serious injury when used properly. Most boards on our list include age-appropriate features like voice prompts, kid-friendly game modes, and built-in coaching for beginners. The Franklin Sports Electronic Dart Board Set is a particularly popular choice for households with kids, thanks to its soft-tip darts and arcade-style voice prompts.
Can you use steel-tip darts on an electronic dartboard?
No. Steel-tip darts are designed for bristle sisal boards and will permanently damage the plastic segments and sensor grid on an electronic dartboard. Stick with soft-tip darts that weigh 18 to 22 grams, which is the standard range for electronic play. If you want to use steel-tip darts, you need a traditional bristle board like those in our dartboard roundup.
How high should you mount an electronic dartboard?
Mount the center of the bullseye at 5 feet 8 inches from the floor, which is the standard tournament height. The throw line (oche) should be 7 feet 9.25 inches from the face of the board, measured horizontally. Use a stud finder for heavier cabinet-style boards and consider heavy-duty drywall anchors for lighter standalone boards.
Final Verdict: Which Electronic Dartboard Should You Buy in 2026?
If I had to pick one electronic dartboard for our team’s game room, I’d mount the Arachnid Cricket Pro 800 without hesitation. It hits the sweet spot of tournament 15.5 inch regulation target area, broad 40-game library with 179 variations, and durable NylonTough segments that reduce bounce-outs. After six weeks of testing, it delivered the most accurate scoring and the fewest frustrating misses of any board on this list.
For budget-conscious families, the Franklin Sports Electronic Dart Board Set delivers genuine value with 65 game variations and a complete starter kit. For households that want online multiplayer, the DARTSLIVE Home is the only board on our list with a real online community. And if you want a cabinet that looks like furniture rather than sports equipment, the Viper Neptune is the premium pick that ties the room together.
Whatever board you choose, plan on replacing the soft-tip darts within the first month and upgrading the mounting hardware on budget boards. Those two investments solve the two most common complaints across every electronic dartboard we’ve tested. Good luck, and may your doubles land true.






