Are you a table tennis enthusiast looking for a quality table to improve your game? In this guide, we’ll provide you with the ping pong table reviews that you need to make your choice between the best table tennis tables on the market. Whether you’re in search of a professional grade table tennis table or a convenient indoor/outdoor table tennis setup, we’ve got you covered! You’re sure to find the best ping pong table for your preferences below.
#1 Editor’s Choice
Stiga Vapor Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Foldable for easy transportation and storage
- One- and two-player modes
- Indoor/outdoor table use for extreme versatility
#2 Editor’s Choice
JOOLA Inside 15 Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Wood composite table top
- Additional features for safety
- Easy to assemble, transport and store
Butterfly Europa 25 Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- 25mm wood playing surface
- Only 6” wide in compact storage position
- Included National League net set
Butterfly Indoor/Outdoor Playback Rollaway Foldable Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Choose classic play or one-player playback position
- Synthetic laminate surface with edge banding
- Waterproof and weather-resistant net set included
Stiga STS 385 Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Powder-coated 19mm wood table top
- Sturdy steel legs with included wheels for portability
- Foldable design for easy storage
JOOLA Tour Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Arrives pre-assembled
- Steel legs with adjustable height
- Anti-tilting locking devices for added safety
JOOLA Rally Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Choice of table thickness
- Charcoal-black aesthetic
- Quick and easy assembly
Contender Regulation Size Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Tournament-grade table
- Adjustable and foldable
- Durable and versatile
Butterfly Compact Foldable Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Warranty included
- No assembly required
- Resin-treated plywood
Extera Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Read Full Review
- Sturdy frame
- Playback position
- Easy storage and transport
1. Stiga Vapor Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Editor’s Choice #1: Learn about the Stiga advantage for yourself with this Stiga model, the best choice for ping pong players who don’t want to sacrifice quality for convenience. Not only is it well-engineered and simple to put together, this table also delivers ultimate playability for your favorite sport. This great competition table from Stiga is sure to impress even the pickiest ping pong player with its amazing list of features.
Easy Storage And Transportation
The Stiga Vapor table tennis table is ready to use almost instantly, coming 95% pre-assembled right out of the box. A short 10 minutes later, you’ll be finished with the easy setup process and ready to play your first game! And don’t worry about having to make space for this ping pong table–each half folds and locks into place to make storing your new table easy and convenient. The halves of the table actually nest together, saving space and making transportation a breeze! Another upside of the table’s ability to fold in half? Part of the Stiga advantage is that the Stiga Vapor table folds into playback mode, giving you the chance to get some practice in by yourself. So if you want to play or need to work on your serve but don’t have any other players around, don’t worry!
Use Indoors Or Outdoors
As one of the best indoor and outdoor ping pong tables, the high-quality construction of the Stiga Vapor table is hard to compete with! Whether you prefer to play on an indoor ping pong table or an outdoor ping pong table, this is one of the best options available. Made of durable aluminum and galvanized steel with warp-resistant coating, the Stiga advantage competition level table is designed to weather any storm. And if you’re looking for indoor ping pong tables that can be stored away, remember that this Stiga model can be broken down into halves. The table top can be used for playing cards or for dining as well, making it an even more valuable addition to your home!
Pros
- Weather-resistant
- Easy to move and store
- Versatile and multifunctional
- Adjustable steel legs
- Attached 3” caster wheels
Cons
- Paddle holder and sports accessories not included
- Only one color option
2. JOOLA Inside 15 Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Editor’s Choice #2: This bestselling ping pong table from Joola is a great budget-friendly option for those who wish to stick to a lower price range! It comes pre-assembled, eliminating any stressful construction work. It also has additional safety features that make it a great choice for families in search of top-tier indoor ping pong tables for their home.
High-Quality Fiberboard Table Top
One of the best features of this Joola table is the professional grade 15mm medium density fiberboard surface. It’s been approved by the USA Table Tennis Association, validating its great playability. Medium density fiberboard is a type of wood composite, which provides a consistent bounce sure to please everyone–from people new to the sport to competition level players! It’s also an extremely durable surface, guaranteeing years of high quality play. And when it’s time to disassemble and store the table, Joola makes it easy for you. The two halves of the table come apart and nest together to save space, and the sleek frame folds up and out of the way.
Extra Safety Features
This ping pong table is enhanced with additional safety features, such as a dual set of anti-tilting locking devices that keep your table steady. Plus, the locking system prevents unintentional opening and closing of the table, so you’ll also avoid getting your fingers pinched. Paired with the sturdy steel legs, this Joola table is strong and stable! In addition, you won’t have to worry about injuring yourself while putting the table together–this Joola inside table arrives 95% pre-assembled, allowing you to say goodbye to complicated instructions manuals and get straight to the game! You’ll only need about 15 minutes to attach the tournament grade net with the simple clamping system.
Pros
- Competition grade wood composite playing surface
- Comes 95% pre-assembled
- Anti-tilting locking devices for added safety
- Included net and post set
- Compact, mobile storage with foldable design
Cons
- Balls and paddles not included
- Inconvenient to switch between playback and classic play
3. Butterfly Europa 25 Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
There’s a reason why the Butterfly Europa 25 ping pong table has been chosen over other indoor ping pong tables for the European championships and other table tennis competitions over the past couple of decades! From its high-quality table top to its durable construction, this table from Butterfly is at the top of its class. Read on to learn exactly why this table is a favorite among table tennis competitors.
Ultimate Playability
While this table requires a bit more of an investment than some of the other options, the quality speaks for itself. The wood top is an impressive 25mm thick and surrounded by a two-inch steel rim to reduce wear and tear. And along with the competition level wood table top comes ultimate playability–this table from Butterfly is International Table Tennis Federation approved! The table provides a consistent ball bounce, thanks in part to its anti-skid coating. Paired with the tournament quality National League net set, it’s nearly unbeatable!
Easy To Build, And Built To Last
Plus, the frame is sturdy and durable, featuring 2-inch square steel legs in its construction. You won’t have to worry about this table wearing out over the years–it’s built to last! And attaching the wheels is actually the only installation you’ll have to do with this table–it comes pre-assembled aside from connecting the net to the table.
Simple To Store
You might think a table this large and sturdy would be difficult to transport and store, but that’s not the case with this model from Butterfly! In order to store the table, simply tip over each half and fold in the legs. Easy installation of the four included wheels allows you to roll the table halves into storage, where the table takes up a width of only six inches. Talk about maximizing space!
Pros
- High quality 25mm playing surface
- Five-year warranty included
- Only 6” wide when folded into storage position
- National League net set included
- Anti-skid table top for consistent bounce
Cons
- Heavy-duty table not ideal for small playing areas
4. Butterfly Indoor/Outdoor Playback Rollaway Foldable Table Tennis Table
This indoor or outdoor ping pong table model by Butterfly is approved by the USA Table Tennis Association, with tons of features that will make it a great investment for years to come. It’s rare to come by an outdoor ping pong table that has warranties included, but this model has an impressive 10-year warranty on the table top and three-year warranty on the frame.
Three Different Modes
The Butterfly Indoor/Outdoor Playback Rollaway Foldable Table Tennis Table can be used in three different modes: classic play, playback position, and storage mode. During classic play, you’ll love the convenience of the included racket and ball holder. This built-in storage set can hold up to four paddles and eight balls, keeping them handy for whenever you need them! Playback position mode allows you to play or practice on your own by folding one half of the table upright. And of course both halves of the table can be folded up and rolled away in storage mode.
Synthetic Laminate Playing Surface
This ping pong table features a 6mm synthetic laminate table top surface that’s created to withstand more than your typical amount of wear and tear, making it a great outdoor table. Edge banding along the sides of the table prevents damage, and extra bracing on the table legs makes for a sturdy table and steady playing surface. There’s no worry about quality and durability with this professional grade table!
Includes All Weather Net Set
Included with this professional grade table tennis table is an all weather net set. This net is waterproof, which makes it a great choice for outdoor use. You don’t have to worry about occasional rain ruining your net and table. The waterproof net is also simple and quick to assemble, and you don’t have to remove it in order to fold or store the table! Overall, this feature adds another level of convenience to the Butterfly model.
Pros
- Approved by USA Table Tennis Association
- Table top and frame warranties included
- Able to fold and roll for easy transportation
- Racket and ball holder included
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Wheels may need to be replaced eventually
5. Stiga STS 385 Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
You’ll notice this table because of its striking navy blue and white coloring. It makes a great-looking addition to your at-home game room–or any room, for that matter! But what you’ll love the most about this Stiga indoor table is the long list of high quality features it provides, thanks to the Stiga advantage.
19mm Wood Playing Surface
The Stiga advantage competition grade wood playing surface’s quality is hard to match! At 19mm thick, you know the ball bounce will be consistent and even. Plus, this Stiga table features a rarely-seen color in ping pong table surfaces: powder-coated navy blue with white silk-screened striping. If you’re looking for a table with a more sleek, upscale appearance, this one is a great choice!
Ideal For Indoor Play
The Stiga advantage is what makes this quality table perfect for indoor play! While it’s not recommended for use as an outdoor ping pong table because it’s not formulated to withstand various weather conditions, it’s a wonderful choice for those who want a quality table to keep indoors. It features built-in ping pong ball storage across the entire width of the table for ultimate convenience, as well as a two-inch powder-coated steel apron around the entire table to prevent damage from bumping against other surfaces. And you’ll also love the convenience of the included clipper net and post system, which is simple to attach and detach as needed. Plus, the leg levelers are perfect to employ if you ever have to deal with an uneven surface.
Foldable For Ultimate Convenience
The four steel legs fold up easily into the halves of the table, and the table halves fold together to minimize the amount of storage space needed. Or you can simply fold up the table when not in use to free up some space in your living area; the four included wheels have attached locking mechanisms that will keep the table from rolling away.
Pros
- Attractive dark blue powder-coated playing surface
- Strong steel frame with wheels for easy transportation
- Features both playback and classic play options
- Foldable design to save storage space
- Tournament grade playability
Cons
- Not suitable for use as an outdoor ping pong table
- 2+ people needed for assembly
6. JOOLA Tour Regulation Size Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
This Joola Tour table has great safety features that provide peace of mind while also keeping your table perfectly steady for the game. This model is a wonderful choice for safety-conscious families with young children! And with your choice of table top thickness for ultimate playability, it’s hard to go wrong with this table from Joola.
Quick Setup
If you don’t consider yourself a handyman, don’t worry! The Joola Tour table comes 95% pre-assembled–just set aside 10 minutes for some easy construction. The included wrench and eight bolts make it simple for you to attach the table legs, and then all you need to do is clamp on the net! In the future when you need to move or store your table, it’s simple to undo the clamps and take off the net if needed. Plus, the table folds and the halves of the table nest together to store compactly. This makes the table easy to fit into even the tightest of storage spaces!
Additional Safety Features
Joola provides customers with peace of mind by adding a number of additional safety features to this ping pong table. First, the table halves are mounted on two separate rolling trolley systems. They feature locking devices that prevent the table from tipping, as well as additional locking mechanisms on each of the eight included caster wheels. The wheels in particular add stability and safety during regular gameplay as well as playback mode and storage.
Sturdy Frame And Playing Surface
With the Joola Tour table, you actually get to choose between a 15mm, 18mm, or 25mm surface. Regardless of thickness, the table top surface is made of a blue painted medium density fiberboard, which produces a reliable ball bounce during gameplay. Additionally, the frame is constructed from steel, with eight wheels as well as adjustable rubber feet. You can always count on having a level indoor ping pong table with this one from Joola!
Pros
- Choose between three table thicknesses: 15mm, 18mm, and 25mm
- Adjustable leg height
- Comes 95% pre-assembled
- Two halves nest together for storage
- Sturdy steel frame for durability
Cons
- Balls and paddles not included
7. JOOLA Rally Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table
Some table designs are focused entirely on gameplay, while others are all about the extra features. But this model from Joola has both, combining functionality with fun! Including unique features like built-in ping pong ball storage and an abacus-style scoring system, you’re sure to fall in love with this Joola inside table!
Game-Enhancing Features
One of the coolest features of the Joola Rally TL is the attached abacus scorers. They attach to the sides of the table with magnets and are simple to use. The scorers provide a fun and easy way to keep track of the game while you play! Plus, each one of the table’s four corners has built-in storage for up to three balls. You’ll love the convenience of not having to look for balls around the room and instead having them right at your fingertips.
Medium Density Fiberboard Table Top
Not only is the Joola Rally TL an attractive and sleek shade of charcoal that would mesh with nearly any color scheme, but it’s not lacking in quality in the slightest! The table top of the Joola Rally TL is made of a wood composite called medium density fiberboard, and you have a choice between 15mm, 18mm, or 25mm table thickness. Plus, a 1.2 inch apron protects the edges of the table, while the durable steel frame provides steady support that will last for years.
Easy Assembly
Quick and easy assembly is always a plus, and the Joola Rally TL only takes about 10 minutes to construct and be ready for your first game. Attach the tournament grade net set with the included clamp system, and you’re ready to go! And as far as storage goes, the table legs fold up into each half of the table, and the two halves fold together. The four attached wheels make it a breeze to roll into its storage destination.
Pros
- Your choice between 15mm, 18mm, and 25mm table thickness
- Aesthetically pleasing charcoal black top
- Corners can be used to store up to three balls each
- Attached magnetic abacus scorers to keep track of the game
- Quick and easy assembly
Cons
- Must take apart table to transport
8. Contender Regulation Size Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Created with advanced durability in mind, this Contender ping pong table is one of the best for use as an outdoor ping pong table. Of course, you can use it indoors too–just know that this versatile table was built to last and withstand more than just your normal wear and tear.
Highly Durable Design
This professional grade ping pong table features a highly durable design made to withstand even the harshest weather conditions, from fluctuations in temperature to high levels of moisture. It has an aluminum composite playing surface, and it’s warp-proof! Plus, you’ll love the silk screened lines on the table top surface. The corner protectors along with the steel frame and reinforcing beams provide you with a perfectly steady surface to play on with a consistent ball bounce, even on uneven ground–just employ the adjustable levelers. The extreme durability of this Contender model makes it a great outdoor table.
Perfect For Any Environment
Made for great performance as an indoor and outdoor ping pong table, this table isn’t just great to have at home–it’s also perfect for schools, gyms, clubs, and recreation centers! Wherever you want to play, this ping pong table is the perfect fit. And with eight high quality solid rubber wheels and a foldable design, it’s simple and easy to transport this table wherever you want to go. Or just fold it up and store it away if you’re looking to save space in between games!
Accessories Included
With the purchase of this quality ping pong table, you don’t just get a table. You also get a full set of ping pong accessories: two table tennis paddles, three ping pong balls, and a polyester net that’s resistant to the elements of the great outdoors. You’ll be ready to play with no additional purchases!
Pros
- Perfect for use indoors and outdoors
- Tournament grade ping pong table
- Leg height is adjustable
- Foldable for easy transportation and storage
- Wheels included
Cons
- Sides of the table are separate rather than being connected with a bracket
- Paddle holder not included
9. Butterfly Compact Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
If you’re looking to avoid assembly and purchase a ping pong table that’s simple to store and transport, look no further–the Butterfly Compact Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table is a great selection. For those who don’t have a lot of extra storage space and need something that’s compact and convenient, this table delivers all that and more.
Able To Fold For Storage And Transportation
Perhaps the best feature of this great ping pong table is that it’s foldable and extremely compact. The table breaks down into two halves, each with folding legs and wheels so it’s easy to move. The table is only three inches wide when the halves are folded and stored! So if you’re in search of a ping pong table that you can easily hide away when not in use, this Butterfly table is a wonderful choice.
No Assembly Required
If you tend to shy away from products that require assembly, you’re sure to love this table! There is absolutely no assembly required with the Butterfly Compact Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table. Instead, the table is delivered completely assembled and ready for play. Just remove the packaging, unfold the legs, and attach the included net and post set! In just a few minutes, you’ll be ready to play on your new table.
Resin-Treated Plywood Surface
This quality ping pong table has a table top made of resin-treated plywood, with the strength of steel and feel of wood. It’s created for both indoor and outdoor use. While the table is only 12mm thick, it’s made up of 11 layers of plywood, which together make for great ball bounce and playability that competes with a standard 19mm table. Plus, the top of this quality ping pong table is coated in DuPont polyurethane paint, which works as a protective agent against rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
Pros
- Use indoors or outdoors
- Available in blue or green
- Warranty included
- Folds to make storage simple
- Strong steel frame with no assembly required
Cons
- Wood surface may not stand up to the elements outdoors
- Compact construction makes for a thin playing surface
10. Extera Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table
If you’re in search of a ping pong table that will function just as well outside as it does inside, this model from Extera is one of the best on the market. Created with ultimate resistance to the elements of the great outdoors in mind, this Extera table is sure to remain stable and reliable for years to come.
Playback Position
Want to work on your serve, but don’t have anyone around to practice with? That’s no problem with this Extera indoor/outdoor ping pong table, which features playback position. All you have to do is fold one half of the table up, and you’re ready for practice anytime! The sturdy steel frame will keep the table firmly in place as you play, whether alone or with a partner. Lockable caster wheels help to keep the table steady as well, and they also allow you to easily move the table to a different location or into storage as needed.
Great For Indoor And Outdoor Use
This table is one of the best for both indoor and outdoor use. It has an aluminum table top construction that’s perfect for resisting the negative effects that inclement weather conditions can have on wooden table tennis tables, like bubbling and warping. In addition, the 6mm top has an anti-glare coating and is also UV resistant to protect against the strong rays of the sun! The steel frame is powder-coated to resist rusting, even if stored outdoors in occasional rain.
Removable Net Included
With this table from Extera, you won’t need to purchase any additional accessories. It comes with a net as well as an equipment set with two paddles and three balls. The net attaches with a simple clamp system and the tension can be adjusted as needed. Right out of the box, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy a game of table tennis!
Pros
- Aluminum table top surface
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- Foldable for ease of storage and transportation
- Features playback mode for practice on your own
- Includes a net and two-player equipment set
Cons
- Included cover is only suitable for use when the table is folded
Buyer’s Guide
Things To Consider When Choosing A Ping Pong Table
We’ve added this handy buyer’s guide to our table of contents to talk about some of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing from all of the ping pong tables on the market! Ideally, your new table will last for years to come, so it’s essential to think about all of the features that are important to you.
Indoor Vs. Outdoor
First, where do you want to put your table tennis table? Do you have a room with plenty of extra space, or an area outdoors where you’d like to keep the ping pong table?
Keep in mind that you don’t just need space equal to the table’s dimensions–you need an additional five feet of space from each end of the table as well as three feet to each side of the table. This allows for the usual amount of movement that goes on during a table tennis game.
Also think about the weather where you live–if it’s particularly wet or rainy, it might not be the best idea to choose an outdoor ping pong table. Generally, if you are planning to use your table indoors the majority of the time, a table meant for indoor use is the best choicechoice – unless you’ll be using it as a beer pong table too!. This is because indoor tables usually have better quality playing surfaces than outdoor tables.
Dimensions
Are you looking for a standard sized table, or do you want something slightly smaller to fit the space you have available? Before investing in a ping pong table, it’s essential to measure the area where you’re planning to put it. There’s nothing worse than buying a table, only to assemble it and find that it doesn’t fit! In addition, think about whether you’ll have children playing on the table. If so, you might want to choose a table tennis table with adjustable legs so that everyone can easily join in on the fun!
Playing Surface
There are tons of options when it comes to your ping pong table’s playing surface. Oftentimes tables meant for indoor use have a particle board or wood table top, while outdoor tables feature aluminum, concrete, plywood resin, and other hardier types of playing surfaces. Some outdoor tables even have an anti-glare or UV-resistant coating perfect for avoiding the negative effects of the sun!
Short on space? You might choose to purchase a conversion top ping pong table that fits on top of a pool table rather than buying a full table tennis setup. Check out our reviews of the best multi game tables to find out more!
Weatherproofing
If you want to keep your ping pong table outdoors, you’ll definitely want to look into tables that are weather-resistant–or even better, weatherproof! While wood is a great option for an indoor playing surface, it’s not the best if you’re looking to keep your ping pong table outdoors. Wood can warp with humidity and extreme temperatures, while aluminum is a more weatherproof option. Concrete is another weatherproof choice. Most outdoor tables have water- and rust-proofing features so that they can withstand anything nature throws at them.
Thickness
The best ping pong tables range in thickness from 22-25mm. While this table thickness provides great playability, it also comes with a higher price tag. You’ll be able to find more affordable tables with a thickness from 16-19mm. Ping pong tables of this thickness typically have good playability and will last you a few years. The cheapest tables are usually 15mm or thinner, and don’t provide the same kind of bounce you’ll find in a sport grade table tennis table.
Frame
The strength of a ping pong table lies in its frame! Heavy steel tubing is usually the frame type of choice, followed by aluminum or galvanized tubing, which doesn’t have the same kind of longevity as steel. You can also choose between a rollaway or wheelaway frame setup, a “butterfly table” or table with separate halves, or even a more unique and aesthetically appealing design.
Ease Of Storage
Consider whether you need a table that’s easy to store away when not in use. If so, it’d be wise to select a foldable table or one with wheels. Many ping pong tables are advertised as “fold and store” varieties, which are perfect if you don’t have much storage space to work with. However, some of these folding ping pong tables have legs that simply fold in, while others actually retract into the frame. In addition, multiple large wheels with locks provide the best support and keep the table from rolling away.
Before buying a ping pong table, don’t just measure the area where you want to put the table–also take time to measure the area where you plan to store the table when it’s not in use!
Portability
Oftentimes, portability goes hand in hand with ease of storage. The features that make a ping pong table easy to store, such as wheels or being able to fold the table, are also helpful when it comes to transportation. But if you have a set place where you want your table to sit permanently, portability might not be one of your priorities. On the other hand, maybe the table will need to move in and out of the room to fit a certain schedule. In that case, you’ll definitely want to check out tables with high quality wheels that are easy to transport from one place to another!
Post And Net System
Aside from the playing surface, the post and net system has a big impact on playability. The best ping pong tables have an integrated post system that’s attached to the frame.
Assembly
Maybe you’re a natural with tools and don’t mind putting a few hours into the construction of your table, or perhaps it’s important to you to find a table with very limited assembly. Either way, ease of assembly is an important factor to keep in mind!
Safety Features
One common safety feature that’s especially great for families with young children is a locking mechanism. A locking mechanism keeps the table open when it’s set up for play, and closed when the table is folded up for storage or in playback position. It keeps players’ fingers from getting caught in between surfaces or getting smashed due to the table closing suddenly.
Warning: Always use caution when folding and transporting your ping pong table, even if it has safety features.
Additional Features
One fun feature you might want to look for is a paddle holder or other type of built-in storage for your ping pong accessories. Players always appreciate having extra ping pong balls handy! Or maybe you’d like a table with an abacus or other type of scoring system included. Lots of ping pong tables have additional features that add to the fun of the game, so keep your eye out!
How To Set Up A Ping Pong Table
So your ping pong table has arrived, and now it’s time to put it together and get in a few games!
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
The first thing you should do? Gather your tools. The most common tools needed for ping pong table assembly are:
- Box cutter
- Hammer
- Wrench
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips-head screwdriver
Warning: Always use caution when working with tools.
Step 2: Clear the Area
Next, clear the area where you’re going to be placing the ping pong table. It’s best to assemble the table in or at least around the area where you’re going to keep it–this way, you avoid having to take the table apart to transport it and then putting it back together again.
Step 3: Measure
Before you take your table out of the packaging, measure one more time. Is the space big enough to fit the table, plus allow players to move about during gameplay? A standard table is nine feet long by five feet wide, and normal gameplay requires an additional five feet on each side and three feet on each side. This means that you’ll need a space that’s at least 14 feet by eight feet in order for the players to have enough space!
Step 4: Unbox
Once you’ve ensured you have plenty of space, it’s time to unbox your ping pong table! A box cutter or pair of scissors will be extremely helpful for this step. You’ll probably want to have a friend around to help you as well, because the table parts can be heavy and hard to handle on your own. When everything has been taken out of the box, open up the instructions manual to make sure all the parts are accounted for. You don’t want to get through the majority of assembly just to realize you’re missing a screw!
Step 5: Assemble
Now it’s time for the fun part: putting all of the pieces together. Of course it’s always recommended to follow the instructions laid out by the manufacturer, but most ping pong tables are pretty self-explanatory. You’ll need to securely attach the legs to the bottom of the table, flip the table over (this is where a helpful friend comes in handy!), and then attach the net and any included accessories.
If you run into problems, you can contact the manufacturer for help. Their number should be listed on the instructions manual for your ping pong table.
Once it’s set up you are ready to play! Don’t forget to check out our best ping pong paddle reviews to complete your set!
Ping Pong Rules
Now that you’ve gotten your ping pong table set up, it’s time for all players to get a refresher on the rules of the game! Here are the basics:
- Games are played to 11 points. If the game is tied 10-10, players must win by two points.
- Each player serves twice before the serve switches to the other player.
- Games are played best of five or best of seven in competition, but it’s also common to play best of three in social settings.
- For a legal serve, players must throw the ball straight up at least six inches into the air with a flat palm.
- If the ball hits the net while serving, it’s considered a let and the players must replay the point.
- When serving, players’ toss and service contact must be behind, not over, the table surface.
- When playing singles, the serve can land anywhere on the table. But when playing doubles, the serve must bounce in the server’s right court and the receiver’s right court.
- When playing doubles, partners have to alternate hitting the ball in a rally, regardless of where the ball lands.
- Players must let the ball bounce before hitting it; no volleys are allowed.
- Players can’t touch the ping pong table with their non-paddle hand.
As of 2011, ping pong and table tennis are classified as two different sports, which have different sets of rules! You can check them out here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Dimensions Of A Ping Pong Table?
The standard dimensions of a regulation size ping pong table are 9’ by 5’, or nine feet long by five feet wide. As far as height goes, regulation size ping pong tables are 2’6”, or two feet and six inches tall.
What Is The Best Surface Thickness For A Ping Pong Table?
The best surface thickness for a ping pong table is 22mm to 25mm. This surface thickness produces great bounce and ideal playability. Although you can often find thinner ping pong tables at a lower price, they typically are of lower quality.
What Is The Best Ping Pong Table To Buy?
We think the best ping pong table to buy is the Stiga Vapor Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table. Not only does it feature both playback and classic play modes, but it’s great for both indoor and outdoor use! You can also easily fold the table up for storage or transportation. It’s a versatile model that’s one of the very best table tennis tables on the market!
Is There A Difference Between Table Tennis And Ping Pong?
Up until the year 2011, there was no real difference between the sports of table tennis and ping pong. While casual hobbyists usually called the game ping pong and more serious players and competitors referred to it as table tennis, there was no official difference between the two terms. In 2011, the two became separate sports with different equipment and different rules for gameplay.
What Is The Difference Between Indoor And Outdoor Ping Pong Tables?
The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor ping pong tables is the material the playing surface is made of. Usually, ping pong tables intended for indoor play feature a wooden table top (often preferred by competitive players), while outdoor tables use materials such as aluminum because they’re resistant to different weather conditions. In addition, outdoor ping pong tables typically have sturdier frames that lead to a higher price point.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve gotten the chance to read our top ten ping pong table reviews, you’re sure to be able to choose the table that’s right for you! Out of all the best ping pong tables, our top choice is the Stiga Vapor Foldable Indoor/Outdoor Table Tennis Table. It’s a quality table great for indoor and outdoor use that allows you to play alone or with a partner. The JOOLA Inside 15 Foldable Indoor Table Tennis Table follows closely behind as a more budget-friendly option that retains maximum playability. Whether you’re looking for a lower-priced table or prefer to pay extra for impressive additional features, we hope that this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the best ping pong table selection so that you’ll want to play on it for years to come.
