We get this question asked quite a lot and our answer is always the same - a firm maybe.
Whilst non slate pool tables can look and feel like proper pool tables, they will not last as long as a slate table. Yes, sure, they might less than 1000€, but you do get what you pay for.
First, the playing surface may not level properly - they usually sink in the middle - sometimes from the day of delivery.
Second, the cloth on the playing surface and cushions is not likely to be removable. This means that you can never recover them - if you get a rip or a stain, you are stuck with it.
Third, you may be encouraged by the low price tag, but, it is true, buy cheap buy twice. A slate bed pool table almost always has a residual value. A non slate pool table almost always has no residual value.
Fourth, the cushion bounce on a non slate table will not be adequate nor uniform. Slate bed tables have professional quality rubbers that will last a decade or more.
Fifth, the cloth quality will be low. Our slate bed pool table use Strachan 6811 Tournament grade cloth.
Of course, if the table is for the kids and is likely to be thrown away after a year, then perhaps consider a non slate table. If not, then slate is the way to go.....