Setting up a dartboard correctly is the first step to consistent practice and fair competition. Whether you play steel-tip or soft-tip darts, the measurements are precise and standardized. This guide covers the exact dartboard distance, height, and diagonal setup for both codes, with practical tips for home use.
The official requirements are remarkably simple in principle. The bullseye must sit at a fixed height, and the throwing line — known as the oche — must be a specific distance from the board’s face. But those distances differ depending on the type of dart you throw. Understanding the numbers and how to apply them will save you time and ensure your setup matches tournament standards.
From casual home games to league play, getting the geometry right matters more than many realise. A few centimetres off can change the angle of entry and affect your scoring consistency over time.
What is the Official Dartboard Distance?
The core question for anyone setting up a board is straightforward: how far do you stand? The answer depends on whether you throw steel-tip or soft-tip darts, but the height of the board remains the same across both disciplines.
Dartboard Setup at a Glance
7 ft 9.25 in / 237 cm
8 ft 0 in / 244 cm
5 ft 8 in / 173 cm
9 ft 7.5 in / 293 cm
- The standard throwing distance for steel-tip darts is universally 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) from the face of the board to the oche.
- Soft-tip (plastic) darts require a longer distance of 8 feet (244 cm) due to different game regulations.
- The dartboard height is consistent across all major dart codes: the bullseye must be 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.
- The diagonal measurement from the bullseye to the oche (9 ft 7.5 in) is a useful double-check for setup accuracy.
- There is no official ‘women’s distance’ in professional darts; the standard measurements apply to all players.
| Measurement | Steel-Tip | Soft-Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Bullseye height | 173 cm / 5 ft 8 in | 173 cm / 5 ft 8 in |
| Horizontal oche distance (from board face) | 237 cm / 7 ft 9¼ in | 244 cm / 8 ft |
| Diagonal from bullseye to oche | 293 cm / 9 ft 7⅜ in | 298 cm / 9 ft 9½ in |
| Oche length (minimum) | 24 in / 61 cm | 24 in / 61 cm |
| Wall clearance (side) | At least 90 cm | At least 90 cm |
What is the Correct Dartboard Height?
The height of the dartboard is one of the few measurements that does not change. Whether you use steel-tip or soft-tip darts, the centre of the bullseye must be exactly 173 centimetres (5 feet 8 inches) from the floor. This standard is set by all major governing bodies including the World Darts Federation and the Professional Darts Corporation.
What is the diagonal distance from the bullseye to the oche?
Many players find it easier to measure diagonally from the bullseye to the front edge of the oche. For steel-tip darts, that diagonal is 293 cm (9 ft 7⅜ in). For soft-tip, it extends to 298 cm (9 ft 9½ in). The diagonal method offers a quick way to verify both height and distance simultaneously.
What is the distance from the bull to the oche?
This is the same as the diagonal measurement above. It is a convenient reference when measuring from a mounted board. Some sources note that the diagonal method is mainly a convenience for faster setup, while the horizontal face-to-oche measurement remains the standard way to confirm official distance.
If you measure from the bullseye straight down to the oche, you get a quick double‑check. For steel‑tip, aim for 293 cm; for soft‑tip, 298 cm. This confirms both your height and distance are correct without needing separate measurements.
Does the Dartboard Distance Change for Soft Tip Darts or Women?
One of the most common questions in dartboard setup is whether the throwing line moves for soft-tip darts or for women. The answer is clear but not always well understood.
Dartboard distance for steel tip darts
The standard distance for steel-tip darts is 237 cm (7 ft 9¼ in) measured from the front face of the board to the oche. This is used in the PDC, BDO, and WDF tournaments worldwide.
Dartboard distance for soft tip (plastic) darts
Soft-tip players stand 244 cm (8 ft) from the board face. This extra 7 cm (2.75 in) is a recognised regulation of the National Dart Association and other soft-tip leagues. The bullseye height remains 173 cm.
Is the dartboard distance different for women?
No. There is no official rule that changes the throwing distance or height for women. The standard measurements apply to all players equally. This is a common myth that stems from outdated or informal house variations. Tournament rules treat every competitor the same.
How to Measure and Set Up Your Dartboard Distance at Home
Setting up your own dartboard accurately does not require special tools, but it does require attention to detail. The following steps will help you get it right.
How exact does the distance to a home dartboard need to be?
While regulation is precise, a small tolerance of 1–2 cm is generally acceptable for casual play. However, if you are training for competition, it is best to aim for exact numbers. Even a slight deviation can alter the angle of dart entry and affect your scoring consistency.
How do I measure the dartboard distance correctly?
Start by mounting the board so that the centre of the bullseye is 173 cm above the floor. Then measure the throw line from the front of the board (not the wall). Use 237 cm for steel-tip or 244 cm for soft-tip. If you prefer diagonal measuring, use 293 cm for steel-tip or 298 cm for soft-tip, from the bullseye to the oche.
What is a dartboard distance mat?
A pre‑measured mat with the oche line and distance markings makes setup quick and repeatable. Many mats include both steel‑tip and soft‑tip distances, making them ideal for home practice areas.
What is the oche distance from the wall?
If the dartboard is mounted flush against the wall, the oche distance from the wall is the same as from the board face. But if the board has a bracket or stand-off, you must measure from the front face of the board, not the wall. Always use the board face as your reference point.
The clear wall space around the board should be at least 90 cm on the side, according to some sources. This is not an official throwing measurement but helps avoid darts hitting walls or obstacles during play.
Measuring the oche from the wall instead of the board face is the most frequent error. If your board is mounted with a bracket that pushes it forward, the wall–to–oche distance will be shorter than required. Always measure from the front of the dartboard.
Evolution of Dartboard Distance Standards
The distances we use today were not always standardised. The timeline below shows how they developed.
- – Standardisation of dartboard height and distance begins in the UK.
- – British Darts Organisation (BDO) formalises the 7 ft 9.25 in distance.
- – Soft‑tip darts gain popularity, leading to the 8 ft distance standard.
- – Digital measurement tools and mats make home setup more precise.
Certainty vs. Uncertainty in Dartboard Setup
Not every claim about dartboard setup is equally reliable. The table below separates established facts from common misunderstandings.
| Claim | Certainty |
|---|---|
| The distance for steel‑tip darts is 7 ft 9.25 in. | High. Universally accepted by WDF, BDO, and PDC. |
| The distance for soft‑tip darts is 8 ft. | High. Standard for most soft‑tip leagues (e.g., NDA). |
| Women have a different throwing distance. | False. No official rule supports this; it is a common myth. |
| A home setup must be exact to the millimetre. | Low. While regulation is precise, a small tolerance (e.g., 1–2 cm) is acceptable for casual play. |
Why Accurate Dartboard Setup Matters
Consistency in practice and competition relies on a standardised setup. Incorrect distance can alter the angle of dart entry and affect scoring. Understanding the diagonal measurement helps ensure both height and distance are correct simultaneously. The rise of electronic dartboards has reinforced the need for clear, separate standards for steel and soft tip.
Authoritative Sources on Dartboard Distance
The following organisations provide the official rules for dartboard setup.
“The throwing distance is 2.37 metres (7 ft 9.25 in) from the face of the dartboard.”
World Darts Federation (WDF)
“The oche is set at a minimum distance of 7 ft 9.25 in from the dartboard.”
Professional Darts Corporation (PDC)
“The throwing distance for soft‑tip darts is 8 ft (2.44 m).”
National Dart Association (NDA)
Next Steps After Setup
Once your board is hung and the oche is marked, take a few minutes to verify everything using the diagonal measurement. Investing in a dartboard distance mat makes future setups effortless. If you plan to play competitively, check local league rules (especially for soft tip). Finally, practice your throw regularly from the correct distance to build muscle memory.
For more on the professional circuit, check out the Darts Premier League Table 2026. If you enjoy comparing dimensions, you might also find the Biggest Stadium in the World: Top 10 Largest & Capacity interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dartboard distance mat?
A dartboard distance mat is a pre‑measured mat that marks the correct throwing distance and oche line, making setup quick and accurate.
What is the oche distance from the wall?
The oche distance from the wall depends on the dartboard’s thickness and mounting. Typically, if the board is mounted flush, the oche is 7 ft 9.25 in (237 cm) from the wall.
What is the distance from the bull to the oche?
The diagonal distance from the centre of the bullseye to the oche is 9 ft 7.5 in (293 cm) for steel‑tip and 9 ft 9.5 in (298 cm) for soft‑tip.
Is the dartboard distance different for women?
No. There is no official rule that changes the throwing distance for women. The standard distance applies to all players.
How do I measure the distance if my board is not flush against the wall?
Always measure from the front face of the board. Use a plumb line or tape measure from the board face to the oche, ignoring the wall.
Can I use a laser measure to set up my dartboard?
Yes, a laser distance meter can be very accurate. Just ensure the laser hits the centre of the bullseye and the front edge of the oche.
What is the diagonal measurement for soft‑tip darts?
The diagonal from bullseye to oche for soft‑tip is 298 cm (9 ft 9½ in).
Does the PDC use the same distance as the BDO?
Yes, both use 237 cm (7 ft 9.25 in) from the board face for steel‑tip darts.
What is the official dartboard height for children?
There is no separate official height for children. For casual play, you may lower the board, but competition standards remain 173 cm.
How long should the oche line be?
The oche line should be a minimum of 24 inches (61 cm) long and clearly marked on the floor.
Freddie Harry Cooper Bennett is a staff writer for DailyPressUK.co.uk, covering UK news, politics, business and culture. He works under Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Whitmore and UK Managing Editor Eleanor Grant, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.