The first decision you'll need to make is whether to use steel or soft tips. This choice depends largely on what type of dartboard you own.

• Ideal For: Bristle boards, traditional pub games
• Material: Typically made from hardened steel for durability
• Shape: Conical with a sharp point
• Pros: Offers greater penetration into the board, allowing you to achieve tighter groupings and better scoring. The sharper tip provides a more secure grip on the board even during aggressive throws.
• Cons: Can be dangerous if accidentally punctured through clothing or skin. Requires a bristle dartboard with self-healing fibers for best performance.

• Ideal For: Electronic boards, casual games at home
• Material: Made from plastic or nylon, often featuring a rounded or blunt tip.
• Shape: Rounded and less sharp than steel tips
• Pros: Safer to handle, especially around children. Less likely to damage the dartboard surface. Compatible with electronic scoring systems.
• Cons: May not penetrate the board as deeply as steel tips, potentially leading to shallower scores or bounce-outs.

Once you've determined whether you need steel or soft tips, there are several other factors to consider:

• Length: Longer tips tend to offer a more secure grip on the board while shorter ones can reduce bounce-outs. Generally, longer tips (around 25mm) are preferred by experienced players who value accuracy.
• Weight: Heavier tips provide more weight toward the front of your dart, which helps with stability and control during flight. Lighter tips offer a faster release and may be favored by beginners or those seeking to increase their speed.

• Cone Tips: These have a smooth, conical shape that allows for consistent penetration into the board. They're ideal for players who prefer accuracy over bounce-out avoidance.
• Pyramid Tips: Also known as "needle tips," these have four sharp edges which can increase grip on the board and reduce bounce-outs. However, they may wear down the fibers of a bristle dartboard faster than cone tips.

• Knurled Tips: These feature grooves or ridges that provide extra grip for your fingers. This can be helpful if you tend to slide off the barrel during throws.
• Smooth Tips: Offer a clean, streamlined look and feel, ideal for players who prefer a minimal amount of friction on their darts.

• Steel Grades: Different steel grades are used in dart tip manufacturing. Higher-grade steels (e.g., nickel-plated brass) offer greater durability and resistance to wear.
• Plastic Types: Soft tips can be made from various plastics, each with its own characteristics. Nylon is a popular choice due to its strength and flexibility.

Investing in high-quality dart tips offers several advantages:

• Improved Accuracy: Consistent penetration into the board leads to tighter groupings and better scoring.
• Reduced Bounce-Outs: Proper tip length, shape, and weight can minimize unwanted bounce-outs, resulting in more points per throw.
• Extended Dartboard Life: Steel tips with a cone shape are generally less abrasive on bristle dartboards than pyramid tips. Soft tips are even gentler and won't damage electronic boards.
• Enhanced Grip: Textured grips allow for better control over your darts during throws, preventing slippage from the barrel.
• Increased Dart Durability: Durable tip materials resist wear and tear, ensuring that your darts remain in good condition longer.