What is billiards vs pool?

​Billiards is a broader term referring to all cue sports, while pool is a specific game within that category. Billiards, also known as carom billiards, is played on a pocketless table with three balls, aiming to hit the other two balls in a specific order for points. Pool, on the other hand, is played on a pocketed table with multiple balls, typically 15, and the goal is to pocket the balls in a specific order, depending on the game variation. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Billiards (Carom Billiards):

• Balls: Typically three balls: one red and two white (or one red, one white, one yellow). 

• Objective: Hit one cue ball against another, then hit the red ball (or hit the red ball directly) for points. 

• Scoring: Points are awarded for specific caroms (hits). 

• Other names: Carambola. 

• Table: No pockets. 

Pool:

• Table: Pockets around the perimeter. 

• Balls: A cue ball and 15 object balls (typically numbered and solid/striped). 

• Objective: Pocket specific balls in a designated order, depending on the game (e.g., 8-ball, 9-ball). 

• Scoring: Points are awarded for pocketing balls. 

• Variations: 8-ball, 9-ball, straight pool, one-pocket.