Both are high quality commercial tables, but most regular players do seem to prefer one over the other. Most poolrooms that have newer tables generally have Diamond Smart tables as opposed to newer Brunswick Gold Crown tables, which is a pretty clear sign the Diamond's are considered a better value.Has Brunswick resolved the issue with cushions hardening abruptly?
Or how about warped slate?
Brunswick quality is low for the money. Better than lower brands or home-tables...but for pro-level commercial tables they are overpriced.
Ya, there's areas where Diamond isn't great. However, the difference is that Diamond puts all their quality where it counts. Brunswick is more about looks. I prefer the look of the GC myself, but the Diamond is a better table. Lately....I been preferring the look of a classic home table. Brunswick does achieve a high degree of good playability, but not with quality.
Diamond's rails are more solid. They are also straighter and more true. Pockets are much better. Having 1-piece slate option is also better. While either can be leveled, 1-piece slate eliminates any issues with the seams, as there are none. Diamond has a better leveling system.
Diamond uses Artemis rubber, which is regarded as the best and has a good reputation. Brunswick's rubber has had major QC issues (hardening)...
You can bridge anywhere on a Diamond at any angle without scraping up your cue or having any issues. On a GC, you will be scraping it against the metal, or if on a pocket, getting nasty plastic streaks on there.
The ProAM is an ugly table, but the most solid. The Pro is better looking.
Gold Crowns should only be compared against Diamond Pros, not ProAM as the ProAM is a giant high end, over built bar box.
Considering the GC is made in China and sells for around $3000 more than a Diamond which is made in America - Brunswick's profit margin is insane and borderline insulting.
Speaking of price, $3000 is not pocket change. You can buy a whole other (good) table for that if you have the space. Outfit a game room. Buy a nice custom cue. Buy a new set of tournament balls every 2 years for the next 18 years....
I'm unaware of whether Brunswick currently offers a lease program to poolrooms to use their tables like Diamond does, but that could have something to do with it as well. I'm curious how much $/month that lease is on either a Diamond Smart barbox or 9-foot Smart table? I'm assuming it's at least $250 / month, making the payback for the cost of the table roughly 2 years.