If you’ve followed basketball in any capacity, you’ve no doubt had the debate on which type of hoop to buy — you’ll either have a portable one or a built-in one.
If you’re in the same boat, this article will highlight some of the benefits and possible issues of each type of hoop, which will help you with the decision-making process.
A basketball hoop is an investment so it is always worth your time to look into which hoop will work for you!
So, what’s the difference between an in-ground basketball hoop and a portable basketball hoop?
The short answer is portability; in short, if you want to be able to move your hoop easily, then you should get a portable basketball hoop! Conversely, if you want your hoop to be stable and more secure, then an in-ground basketball hoop would be the best hoop to purchase.
Regardless of which type of hoop you choose, you will need to have the hoop placed on a hard surface, like concrete or paving, so that is something else to consider!
In this article, we’ll discuss in-ground Vs portable basketball hoops in more detail, so if you’re interested in more information to help make your choice, stick around!
In-ground Vs portable basketball hoop – things to consider
The main distinction and the main factor when evaluating an in-ground hoop versus a portable hoop is whether or not you want the ability to move it.
As you would expect from the name, a portable hoop can be moved around.
On the other side, an in-ground hoop is a permanent structure that has been installed in the ground.
An in-ground hoop is very solid and is perfect for someone who is serious about the sport.
Worthy of Consideration – If you have an emerging star player, an in-ground hoop is surely worth the investment.
If however, you want something for fun because your kids and their friends would enjoy playing basketball outside, you might want to consider a portable hoop to pull out front and have a good time with your neighbors.
Rising basketball star?
If you play a level of a college or school basketball team, then an in-ground basketball hoop will be durable and professional for the proper practice at the correct height.
If installed correctly, it will last for many decades.
A fixed basketball hoop will provide a serious player with an opportunity to enjoy playing the game in a professional manner in your own yard.
Additionally, a quality hoop with a breakaway-style rim and tempered glass board will be helpful for dunking practice.
Fun for the kids
Unless you’re hoping to become a professional basketball player and you’re not on a high school or college team, you may want a portable basketball hoop.
There’s no sense in purchasing an expensive hoop system that’s installed by a professional. A wheeled hoop that can be adjusted in height would be most suitable.
From toddlers to teens, any age of kids could use the hoop and it can be adjusted to suit any age and for enjoyment.
It can also be moved easily so your kids can play with their friends in the front yard as well.
Basketball hoop placement – in-ground Vs portable hoop
The placement location is an important consideration in distinguishing in-ground versus portable basketball hoops.
Now, obviously, a portable hoop you do not care when it comes to a location, and that is a plus! You just need any hard ground, and you are good to go.
In contrast, if you’re planning an in-ground basketball hoop, you would probably want to have a specific area.
Remember, any in-ground hoop is more of a permanent feature, so you cannot change your backyard (at least not easily) once it is installed.
Budget considerations – in-ground Vs portable basketball hoop
If you have a limited budget, a portable hoop is going to be a lot cheaper.
In-ground hoops are a lot more expensive because of labor, and because there are stronger, heavier materials involved.
Types of in-ground basketball hoop
Deciding to purchase an in-ground basketball hoop instead of some other kind, is not just the end of the decision. Next, you have to decide what type of in-ground basketball hoop you would like to purchase, as there are 3 types:
- Ground sleeve
- Direct burial hoops
- Anchor systems
The ground sleeve option is the most popular choice of basketball hoop. The sleeve is just a tube that sits in the a hole in the ground.
Once the sleeve is in the hole, you just pour concrete around the sleeve and once this sets, you can take out the sleeve and slide your basketball hoop pole in the sleeve and bolt down the basketball hoop pole.
Direct burial means just digging a hole, placing the basketball hoop pole in, and covering the pole with concrete.
Lastly, in an anchor system, you just place the bolts in the hole and fill it with concrete, which is often required for more expensive hoops.
In ground Vs Portable basketball hoops – a comparison
So that you can review both types of basketball hoops side by side, we’ve come up with an easy comparison chart.
| Portable Basketball Hoop | In-Ground Basketball Hoop | |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | Tip and wheel to any desired location. You might need to empty the base for easier movement, but this isn’t too difficult. | Cannot move due to being installed into the ground |
| Installation | Only needs assembly (maximum 90 minutes). You might need tools for assembly. | Ground preparation (digging/installing) needed. Concrete takes up to 3 days to cure. |
| Stability | Based is usually filled with sand or water. Might wobble with a hard shot. Not made to withstand hang overs (could tip over). | Very stable, won’t tip over. Dunking/hanging on the rim is possible. |
| Playing ability | Usually have lighter backboards (lighter glass or plastic). Pole not made to withstand the weight. Not good for aggressive play. | Equivalent to a professional hoop. Breakaway rim. High-quality, tempered glass backboard, and proper rebounds. Can handle aggressive play. |
| Suitability | Families with young children as they’re height adjustable. People who are intending to move home (or move around). | Basketball enthusiasts wanting to make a go of the game in a more serious way. Families who aren’t planning on moving home. |
Final thoughts
There are numerous considerations to sort through when settling on whether you want an in-ground or a portable basketball hoop.
Purchasing a basketball hoop is not inexpensive, particularly with an in-ground hoop, so you want to feel confident either way about which one is best for you.
An in-ground option will work better for individuals that are not planning on moving or perhaps are hoping to pursue a serious career in basketball.
Essentially, they are for serious players. However, if you have a young family wanting to set down roots, you are not in your ‘forever home,’ or want to have more mobility, then a portable system will better suit your needs.
Also, since portable basketball hoops are a lot cheaper, if you move on to an in-ground system at a later date, you will not have wasted your purchase.