Texas Hold-Em went from a simple variation on the game of poker to a huge phenomenon seemingly overnight. It is now immensely popular in tournament, casino and recreational play. Texas Hold-Em table tops are a great way to bring some authenticity to your home game with friends. They also make excellent gifts for the poker lover in your life.

Texas Hold-Em table tops serve to provide a dedicated playing surface for the game similar to what you find in a casino. Rather than an entire table, which requires additional space and set up, Texas Hold-Em table tops rest on top of an existing table and provide a quick, inexpensive solution for your game play.

Texas Hold-Em table tops are generally oblong, either in a rectangle or oval, to provide for the larger number of players and lateral dealing of cards involved in the game--in contrast to 5-card draw or other standard games. They are usually made of wood with a smooth felt lining on the top. Table tops may fold, allowing for easy transport to a game, or they may be one solid piece.

Outside of the general purpose and construction, Texas Hold-Em table tops differ greatly. They come in different sizes, providing room for varying even numbers of players (6, 8, 10). Some tables will have designations for where the cards are dealt, while others are left blank. Tables may also include a padded elbow rest, cup holders and/or chip holders.

Some poker table tops may come in multi-game packages with additional game surfaces included, such as black jack or craps. These make an excellent gift for the gaming lover and are a good solution if you'd like the option of playing other games on the same surface.

Given the explosion of Texas Hold-Em, table tops and other supplies are widely available, particularly around the holidays. You can find them at department stores, sporting good stores and even some home good stores. For the nicest table tops or full tables, you may consider shopping at a billiard supply store or game shop. Tables can also be purchased online through a variety of retailers. Table tops are inexpensive, especially in comparison to full tables and a good variety can be found in the $50 to $120 range.