The 14 Best Ping Pong Tables: Find the Right Table for You!
- Alex Horscroft
- Last updated
Having meticulously studied the best table tennis tables of 2024, the JOOLA Tour 2500 is my favorite. With a 25 mm thick playing surface, it is tournament-level quality and also has an unbeatable price tag for its class. It’s my top pick for keen players who demand quality. But what about buyers with different requirements in mind?
Besides the Tour 2500, I selected more of this year’s best ping pong tables. Here are my favorites:
- JOOLA Tour 2500 — Best Overall
- JOOLA Inside 25 — Great Value for Money
- STIGA Optimum 30 — Best Quality
- Butterfly Centrefold 25 — Longest Indoor Warranty Period
- JOOLA Inside 15 — Cheapest Option
- Cornilleau 300X Outdoor — Top Outdoor Pick
- JOOLA Nova Pro Plus Outdoor — Super Mobility
- Kettler Outdoor 6 — Safest
To get a full scope of what’s on offer, I recommend checking out each of my ping pong table reviews below. You will also find a buyer’s guide at the bottom of this post with further helpful information.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Trust Us
As ping pong experts, we specialize in everything table tennis from tables to balls, and unlike other websites, we are not paid to promote products. Instead, we provide honest reviews of products we love. In return, all we ask is you use one of our affiliate links if you’re interested in purchasing any of the products we review.
For each table tennis table review, I compared the models with the rest of the market by looking at:
- Bounce quality
- Value for money
- Portability
- Assembly
- Storage
- Warranty
A Full List of the Best Ping Pong Tables
Best Indoor Ping Pong Table Reviews
Below you’ll find reviews for the best indoor table tennis tables for 2024.
#1. JOOLA Tour 2500 — Best Overall
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – 10 minutes (Comes 95% ready to go)
- Surface – 1″ (25 mm) medium-density fiberboard
- Weight – 249 lbs
- Price – $$ (Check current price)
- Our rating – 9.9/10 (Our JOOLA Tour review)
Pros
- Superb value for money
- Tournament-grade table top
- Nests for compact storage
- Solo playback mode
- Quick assembly
Cons
- Heavy
- 1-year warranty period
The JOOLA Tour 2500 is my top ping pong table choice. It is an affordable yet quality table with which even the pros would be happy.
As you’d expect from a top brand like JOOLA, it has all the features you expect and need. The first is a great table surface. The Tour series from JOOLA comes in three different thicknesses: the JOOLA Tour 1500 (5/8″), the JOOLA Tour 1800 (3/4″), and the tournament-grade table, JOOLA Tour 2500 (1″). Remember that the thicker the tabletop surface, the better bounce you will get. While the most expensive, I feel that the 25 mm version provides the best value for money — it really is a delight to play on. It’s perfect for recreational play at home, in the office, or more serious play at clubs and tournaments.
It folds up for personal playback, enabling you to practice independently, and stores compactly when not used. While I never use solo playback mode, it may interest some beginners if they don’t have a partner to play with.
The only issue with mobility is that it is quite heavy at 249 lbs. However, its eight casters (four on each of the two halves) that lock in place for safety make the table relatively easy to move and fix into place. You can also use the leg levelers to ensure a level playing experience if you have an uneven floor.
The JOOLA Tour is a solid USATT-approved ping pong table, and it easily ranks as one of the best JOOLA ping pong tables for the money.
#2. JOOLA Inside 25 — Great Value for Money
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Easy assembly – Under 10 minutes
- Surface – 1″ (25 mm) medium-density fiberboard
- Weight – 293 lbs
- Price – $$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.8/10 (Full review of the JOOLA Inside tables)
Pros
- Superb value for money
- Tournament-grade table top
- Nests for compact storage
- Solo playback mode
- Quick assembly
Cons
- Heavy
- 1-year warranty period
In at number two, I have the JOOLA Inside 25 table tennis table. It’s up there as one of the most popular table tennis tables ever. It’s a great choice for intermediate or advanced players looking for their first table or perhaps a family looking for the best ping pong table for the home that’s easy to fold and store away when not in use.
It comes in three table thicknesses, but my favorite is the 25 mm version (the JOOLA Inside 25), supported by 1.5-inch thick steel legs to keep it sturdy and safe. It splits into two pieces, which makes it really easy to move around. Plus, you can fold up one side to play ping pong on your own.
Honestly, there is little to separate the Inside 25 and Tour 2500. Both share near-identical specs and are the same price. However, the Inside range is being phased out as it is older, so for that reason, I’d slightly favor the Tour 2500. In any case, it’s still one of the best ping pong tables you can purchase. Besides the hefty weight and 1 year warranty period, I can’t really fault it.
#3. The STIGA Advantage Pro
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – 10 minutes
- Surface – 3/4″ (19 mm)
- Weight – 211 lbs
- Price – $$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.5/10 (Our STIGA Advantage review )
Pros
- Good value for money
- Nests for compact storage
- 4″ wheels
- Quick assembly
- Solo playback mode
Cons
- Heavy
- 90-day warranty period
My 3rd choice is the STIGA Advantage Pro, another popular recreational table that ticks many boxes you should look for in the best table tennis table. It’s a regulation-size 9 x 5 ft model and incredibly simple to set up. It took just 10 minutes from the box to play.
The playing surface comes in a few different table thicknesses. I like the STIGA Advantage Pro version, which is 3/4 inch (19 mm), but you can get the regular STIGA Advantage, which is available at a lower price. However, it has a 5/8 inch (16 mm) thick table surface. The cheapest version, which I don’t recommend, is the STIGA Advantage Lite. Its tabletop thickness is just 1/2 inch (13 mm), so it is not that fun to play on.
The Advantage Pro is made with a thick medium-density fiberboard that STIGA finishes with multiple layers of paint to ensure a smooth surface and consistent bounce. In my opinion, the bounce quality is very respectable, but it does fall short of the top ping pong tables on the market.
Like any high-quality table designed for indoors, you can fold up the STIGA Advantage Pro to put it away for easy storage or into personal playback mode to practice on your own. When folded, it locks into position with a spring-loaded safety latch to ensure it won’t open unexpectedly. It also features 4-inch premium black casters to make transporting it effortless. To top it all off, the STIGA Advantage Pro table has a premium tournament-grade 72-inch net set that clamps to the top and is very easy to set up. You can adjust the height and the tension as well.
My main pet peeve with this model is the 90-day warranty period. It’s well below average, which is a shame, but I don’t see it as a major issue, given STIGA’s solid rep in the industry.
So, if you’re looking for an affordable yet durable ping pong table for your home or office, check out the STIGA Advantage Pro.
#4. STIGA Optimum 30 — Best Quality
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – 1-2 hours
- Surface – 1 -1/4″ (30 mm) fiberboard
- Weight – 250 lbs
- Price – $$$$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.5/10 (See our full review here)
Pros
- Tournament-grade table top
- Strong build
- ITTF-approved
- Nests for compact storage
- Solo playback mode
Cons
- Heavy
- 1-year warranty period
- 1-2 hours for assembly
If table thickness is what you seek, you’ll be mightily impressed by the STIGA Optimum 30 indoor ping pong table. Most tournament standard ping pong tables have a 25 mm thick playing surface, but the Optimum 30’s is 30 mm thick. This means no other table cannot outdo the quality and consistency of the bounce — I found it the most enjoyable to play on.
It also has a very strong build quality which I expect from a high-end table. The steel legs measure 2-2/5″ x 1-3/5″, and the 2-2/5″ thick steel apron supports the playing surface. This is a table that will last for many, many years and can stand up to a great deal of punishment.
Unsurprisingly, it’s rather heavy at almost 250 lbs and takes around 1-2 hours to set up. This may seem inconvenient, but it’s pretty typical for elite tables. Many of us have simply become accustomed to lower to mid-end models that are mostly pre-assembled.
The STIGA Optimum 30 comfortably ranks as one of my top tables ever, and it is easily worth the money for players of an advanced skill level. However, given the Tour 2500, and Inside 25 are of similar quality and quite a bit cheaper, I feel they provide better value for money, so they have more widespread appeal. Conversely, the Optimum 30 is a better pickup in a club setting where quality is more important than value.
#5. JOOLA United Pro 18 — Great Value
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – 10 minutes (Comes 95% ready to go)
- Surface – 3/4″ (18 mm) medium-density fiberboard
- Weight – 187 lbs
- Price – $$ (Check current price)
- Our rating – 9.4/10 (Our JOOLA Motion review)
Pros
- Good ping pong table for the money
- Nests for compact storage
- Ball holders
- Quick assembly
- Solo playback mode
Cons
- 1-year warranty period
- Average table top thickness
Another fantastic table is the JOOLA United Pro 18 (the JOOLA Motion and JOOLA Rally TL). It’s hugely popular with beginners and intermediate players looking for a durable, reliable option that won’t break the bank.
The JOOLA United Pro, like most tables, comes in three different playing surface thicknesses. The 5/8 inch is the standard version and is more than adequate for most players, but if you can afford a bit extra, I recommend the 3/4 inch model, which has a superior bounce. It’s not tournament grade, but most intermediate players will happily play on it. Even as an advanced player, I still find it good enough to use.
The JOOLA United Pro 18 has a tabletop made from medium-density fiberboard and multiple layers of paint to ensure a smooth and consistent ball bounce. It also has four locking wheels and leg levelers to keep the playing surface as flat as possible.
I love the quality look and design of the JOOLA United Pro 18 and the fact that it has ball holders at each corner. (once you’ve had a table with ball holder corner caps, you won’t want to return to one without!). It also features magnetic abacus scorers to help you keep track of who’s winning — cheating friends will hate it! So, if you’re interested in a model for your game room, the JOOLA United Pro 18 is a superb choice.
#6. Butterfly Centrefold 25 — Longest Indoor Warranty Period
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – None at all! (delivered ready to go)
- Surface – 1″ (25 mm) tournament standard
- Weight – 280 lbs
- Price – $$$$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.4/10 (See our full review here)
Pros
- Tournament-grade table top
- 5-year warranty period
- Sturdy
- 5″ wheels
- ITTF-approved
- Arrives fully assembled
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavy
- No solo playback mode
If you’re willing to spend serious money on a new table (over $2000), you’ll get a professional ping pong table suitable for tournament use. Ideally, a model in this price bracket should have a 1-inch thick table top and a solid chassis that does not bend or wear easily. The surface should also be scratch-resistant and have a long warranty period.
I believe the Butterfly Centrefold 25 fits all these criteria and has among the best performance of any ping pong table available today.
Over the years, I’ve got to play on many indoor ping pong tables, and it’s fair to say that the Centrefold 25 is among the top few of my favorite ones. It’s made by Butterfly, one of the most popular table tennis companies. They were even the official tournament sponsor and supplier of the 2012, 2014, & 2016 World Table Tennis Championships.
The Butterfly Centrefold 25 has all the usual features that you’d expect in a high-quality professional table, such as leg levelers and lockable 5-inch rubber wheels for easy movement. You can then fold it away when you want to put it into storage with its straightforward folding mechanism and safety latch to keep it in place. However, one important quality to note is that while the table is portable, it doesn’t fold for solo playback. But by buying a table of such caliber, I doubt you would use this feature if it were present.
The incredible 1-inch scratch-proof playing surface gives an amazing bounce, and it’s ITTF-approved for top-level tournaments. I also like the flare from the magenta corner protectors, which keeps it safe from knocks and scratches — no denying this table has style! Included with the table is a Europa Net Set, which is of professional quality.
The cost is the main downside of the Butterfly Centrefold 25 indoor ping pong table. It’s fair to say it’s a high-end ping pong table and is immensely more expensive than the likes of, say, the STIGA Advantage. That being said, this Butterfly table offers a five-year warranty that softens the blow. So if you’re looking for one of the best ping pong tables on the market that the pros would be happy with, check it out.
7. JOOLA Madeira Indoor — Luxury Design
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly time – Not specified
- Surface – 7/8″ (22 mm)
- Weight – 260 lbs
- Price – $$$$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.1/10
Pros
- Quality surface thickness
- Attractive ash hardwood finish
- Large 6″ wheels
- Solo playback mode
- Built-in bat and ball holders
Cons
- Expensive
- 1-year warranty period
The Madeira Indoor is one of the newer regulation-size tables. With its ash hardwood finish, it’s a real eye-catcher, but this isn’t just a table for looks. At 22 mm thick, this is a table for those at an intermediate or advanced skill level. Moving past appearances, it has other advertising features too. One of the main ones is the 6″ locking casters — perfect for moving around all 260 lbs of this solid table.
You’ll also notice the bat and ball holders at the center. These are by no means essential. If you have a quality paddle, you should not keep yours in there. But for those with cheap paddles, it makes them easy to store so you can play immediately.
All in all, the Madeira is a quality ping pong table with better bounce than most and a quality look to go with it. However, it’s not quite one of the best ping pong tables. This is simply because it is too overpriced — many cheaper options are available. For that reason, I can’t score it too highly.
#8. JOOLA Inside 15 — Cheapest Option
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Easy assembly – 10 minutes
- Surface – 5/8″ (15 mm) medium-density fiberboard
- Weight – 130 lbs
- Price – $ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 7.5/10 (Full review of the JOOLA Inside tables)
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Solo playback mode
- Quick assembly
Cons
- Thin table top
- Light
- 1-year warranty period
For my final indoor table tennis table recommendation, I have the JOOLA Inside 15. I wouldn’t usually recommend a 5/8″ thick table, but given its cheap price tag and the fact it comes from one of the top table tennis brands, I still think it’s worth mentioning. It’s important to note that I view this purely as a casual table, nothing more.
I found the bounce mediocre, so it’s not a good table for serious training. However, it’s a cost-effective option if you want one for barbecues or other family events.
The Inside 15 takes around 10 minutes to assemble, and it includes a spring-clamp net, so all you need are some paddles and balls, and you are good to go! I also like that this model features leg levelers. Some cheaper tables choose to go without.
In summary, if you’re looking to spend less than $450 and want to go with a trusted brand, this is perhaps the best ping pong table.
Read More: Best Table Tennis Conversion Tops
Best Outdoor Ping Pong Tables
#1. Cornilleau 300X Outdoor — Top Outdoor Pick
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Setup – 90 – 120 minutes (Not so easy to put together on your own)
- Surface – 5 mm laminate surface with glare reduction
- Weight – 123 lbs
- Price – $$$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.4/10 (Our Cornilleau 300X review)
Pros
- Very large 8″ wheels
- 10-year warranty period
- Abacus scorers
- Bat and ball holders
- Anti-glare coating
- Solo playback mode
Cons
- Expensive
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
- Lengthy assembly
Up next I have the Cornilleau 300X Outdoor ping pong table, which is a French-made outdoor table tennis table. It sports an anti-glare 5 mm thick top that provides a good ball bounce. The anti-glare feature makes more of a difference than you likely expect. Playing on particularly sunny days is difficult without an anti-glare top, as high reflectivity can make it difficult to see.
The folding frame of the 300X is built with a 50 mm thick steel alloy, which gives it amazing support. It’s also completely weatherproof, so it won’t rust when exposed to the elements. I love the strong 200 mm (8-inch) diameter casters, which provide phenomenal portability. Like most wheels, they have brakes to ensure the table remains in place when stowed away safely.
I particularly like the abacus scorers on the side of the table. These help keep track of the score to prevent cheating. The 300X has storage space for four paddles and eight balls by the wheels to ensure you don’t lose your accessories. As for leveling, the table features height-adjustable swivel feet. This makes it possible to play virtually anywhere. Furthermore, the integrated net has a cord that enables you to adjust the net’s height.
Overall, it’s a high-quality, durable, sturdy, and well-designed outdoor table with a 10-year warranty. These qualities make it the best ping pong table for those looking for a model for their garden. Of course, you’ll have to fork out for such a quality table. This model costs far more than some of my favorite indoor models.
#2. JOOLA Nova Pro Plus Outdoor — Super Mobility
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly – 10 minutes (comes 95% preassembled)
- Surface – 6 mm thick aluminum-plastic composite
- Weight – 173 lbs
- Price – $$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.2/10
Pros
- Very large 6″ wheels
- Solo playback mode
- Nests for compact storage
- Quick assembly
Cons
- 1-year warranty period
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
The JOOLA Nova Pro Plus Outdoor is an indoor-outdoor weather-proof ping pong table built to last. It’s got a 6 mm thick aluminum and plastic composite surface that is warp-resistant to ensure it lasts for many years of outdoor use. Despite this playing surface being of good quality for an outdoor model, this is still its weakest area, as the table is just so damn good everywhere else.
The bounce is poor compared to indoor models because it’s made of a composite material rather than wood, but this is true of all outdoor tables. So, it’s a broad weakness of these tables rather than the Nova Pro Plus specifically. Regarding outdoor models, I found it to be one of the better models for bounce.
Back to the positives: the table’s frame is made from galvanized steel. This sits on a 30 mm x 30 undercarriage that’s rust-resistant and safe.
Yet where the Nova Pro Plus excels is portability. This table has eight 6″ double-locking casters, meaning it can tackle some seriously tough terrain. Long grass? No problem. Bumpy cobble? Easy-peasy. This table is among the best you can get if maneuverability is your primary goal. Few tables have wheels larger than 4″, so double 6″ wheels are incredible. The table also has folding legs and comes in two sections like most, making it easy to move around. You can also set it in a playback position to practice by yourself.
Furthermore, the Nova Pro Plus ping pong table has a weatherproof net set that is simple to set up and isn’t fiddly like some of the nets I’ve seen. Like other good tables, it has leg levelers to ensure the table is as flat as possible, a very handy feature, especially on an outdoor table tennis table. Overall the JOOLA Nova Pro Plus is one of the best indoor outdoor ping pong table models. It’s particularly great for buyers who must wheel their table considerable distances.
#3. STIGA XTR Outdoor — Good Budget Pick
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly – 15 minutes (95% preassembled)
- Surface – 6 mm aluminum composite surface
- Weight – 166 lbs
- Price – $$ (See the latest price)
- Our rating – 9.1/10 (See our full review here)
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Solo playback mode
- Nests for compact storage
- Quick assembly
Cons
- 60-day warranty period
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
Up next is the STIGA XTR, a great outdoor full-size table tennis table built to withstand all that Mother Nature can throw at it. The 6 mm aluminum top is made with an exterior grade powder coating, and the legs are made with waterproof galvanized steel that won’t rust and is resistant to sun damage. These materials make it perfect for all-year-round play in all climates. It’s built to resist moisture, which can cause even the best indoor table tennis tables to warp and lose shape.
The 1.5-inch tubular steel apron supports the table top and ensures the bounce is even across the whole table’s surface. I found it incredibly easy to fold away when not in use due to its self-opening feature that automatically deploys its steel legs when opening or closing it. Like other tables, it has adjustable leg levelers and strong 3″ locking wheels for easy and safe transport.
The main area that the STIGA XTR suffers is its warranty, which is one of the worst among the tables I looked at. With just 60 days of coverage, it leaves much to be desired. Fortunately, it seems to hold up to the elements rather well and is one of the most popular tables for indoor and outdoor use.
If you are budget-friendly, you could also check out the STIGA XTR Pro, which has bigger wheels and a thicker frame. Both come with a 72″ weather-resistant tournament-grade net and post set that is made to last and keep its tension.
#4. JOOLA United Pro Outdoor
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly – 15 minutes (comes 95% preassembled)
- Surface – 6 mm thick aluminum-plastic composite
- Weight – 144 lbs
- Price – $$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 8.9/10 (Our JOOLA Nova review)
Pros
- Well-priced
- Solo playback mode
- Nests for compact storage
- Quick assembly
Cons
- 1-year warranty period
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
The JOOLA United Pro Outdoor (also called the Nova DX) is the model down from the Nova Pro Plus. It sports the same design structure but falls short in one key area: its locking casters. They measure 3″ in diameter and are single wheels. This pales compared to the 6″ double wheels present for the Nova Pro Plus. Of course, the advantage of choosing this model is the price. You can pick it up for $100 less, which is quite the saving when you consider the only area the Pro Plus beats it is its wheels. Other than that they seem to be the same table.
I did notice that the assembly required for the Nova DX is listed at 15 minutes rather than the 10 minutes for the Nova Pro Plus. However, the assembly time is identical in reality as they have the same design structure.
The United Pro Outdoor is also very similar to the STIGA XTR, much like how the JOOLA Inside is similar to the STIGA Advantage. These two brands are the kings of affordable ping pong tables, and once again, it’s tough to differentiate between these two models. They look remarkably alike and have almost identical features. Therefore, I favor the cheaper model, which is the STIGA XTR. Regardless, the United Pro Outdoor is still one of the best ping pong tables for your garage or the outdoors.
#5. Kettler Outdoor 6 — Safest
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Setup – 30 minutes
- Surface – KETT-TEC6 True Bounce playfield
- Weight – 170 lbs
- Price – $$$$$ (Check the latest price)
- Our rating – 8.9/10
Pros
- 10-year warranty on top and 3-year warranty on frame
- Ball dispensers
- Bat and ball holders
- Solo playback mode
- Safe-fold and Dual Locking System technology
- 5.5″ wheels
Cons
- Permanent net
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
- Expensive
The Kettler Outdoor 6 ping pong table is my premium outdoor option. It includes many luxury features which you won’t find among other models. Let’s start by looking at its form. The Outdoor 6 is a one-piece table, unlike most of the other tables we have looked at, which are two-piece. It uses a Dual Locking System (DLS), a proprietary one-handed contraption for opening and closing the table. The patented Smooth Trax tech further enhances this. Both sides open and close in a controlled manner, making this a great option for kids you can’t usually trust.
The playing surface features a KETT-TEC6 True Bounce playfield. The thickness is not specified, which is a real shame, but I estimate it to be at least 6 mm based on testing. I do, however, know that it is both fade- and scratch-resistant, and it has an anti-glare coating, all of which are advertising qualities.
Another top attribute is the 5.5″ double wheels. These make traversing troublesome ground a cinch, and I expect no less of such a high-end table. Moving onto fun add-ons, the Kettler Outdoor 6 includes ball dispensers at either end of the table and bat holders below the net. For this reason, you should always have equipment handy! You’ll also be pleased to know that this table has a cover, 4x outdoor rackets, and 12x 3-star balls. So, while the 30-minute assembly period is longer than most, you don’t need to go out and buy any gear. You can get playing as soon as you build the table!
#6. Butterfly Playback Rollaway Outdoor
Specifications
- Dimensions – 9 x 5 feet (regulation-size table)
- Assembly – 2 hours or more (Not easy to put together on your own)
- Surface – 6 mm synthetic laminate top
- Weight – 140 lbs
- Price – $$$ (Check the latest price here)
- Our rating – 7/10
Pros
- 10-year warranty on top and 3-year warranty on frame
- 5″ wheels
- Solo playback mode
- Bat and ball holders
- Lightweight
Cons
- Permanent net
- No leg levelers
- Lengthy assembly
- Poor bounce compared to indoor models
- Expensive
The Butterfly Playback Rollaway Outdoor is an outdoor ping pong table with a 6 mm synthetic laminate top. While not particularly thick, it does match the thickness of most quality outdoor ping pong tables. The playing surface is identical to the Outdoor Home Rollaway, but it uses a more robust frame. Therefore, it could be a great choice for a little heavy-handed player.
The table folds up for solo playback mode, and the net remains fixed when doing so. This is a positive to some, but to me, it’s a negative. Fixed nets are harder to replace and stick out, making the table harder to store. I do, however, like the large 5″ double wheels, which make the table easy to move, and the included 3-year warranty on the top and 10-year warranty on the frame. That’s a very respectable warranty period for an outdoor table.
The major downside to the Playback Rollaway Outdoor is how long it takes to assemble. It took me 2 hours to assemble, which was far longer than the rest. It’s also difficult to assemble independently, so consider getting friends or family to help. I was disappointed to see that the table does not have leg levelers. This is a strange feature to omit as the ground outdoors is often uneven, so leg levelers are essential to ensure a level playing surface when you play ping pong outside. For this reason, the Playback Outdoor Rollaway comes in last position.
Read More: Best Foldable Ping Pong Tables
Table Tennis Tables — Buyer’s Guide
Indoor vs Outdoor Tables
Location! Location! Location! Where do you plan on playing table tennis? In your backyard with friends? In your basement for more serious training? Before you start looking at the tables on offer, you should clearly know whether you want an indoor or outdoor table, as this is the most influential factor when buying ping pong tables. Indoor tables are almost always better than outdoor tables for table tennis games. But as their name would suggest, they quickly become ruined when left out in the rain.
On the other hand, outdoor models are generally easier for people to store. And while they are not as fun to play on, they are perfect for recreational use for most people. Just be aware that while they are well-equipped to handle the outdoors, I wouldn’t expect them to last as long as indoor tables. Indoor models take less punishment, making them better long-term picks.
Table Top Quality
Most table tops are made from wood, specifically MDF or compressed plywood. At least, that’s the case for superior indoor models. Outdoor models use a mix of metal, wood, and melamine to protect against rain, heat, and humidity.
While the materials a table uses are a good quality indicator, you must also note its surface thickness, which is a great performance indicator. I recommend picking up a table with a surface thickness of at least 18 mm if you’re a keen player. For context, the max thickness is often 25 mm, although a few 30 mm models are around.
This means you should generally steer clear of 13 mm and 15 mm tables unless you are really strapped for cash. They provide a poor, inconsistent bounce, which is pretty frustrating to play on. So take note, you’ve been warned!
You might expect only ITTF-approved tournament-quality tables to be 25 mm thick, but that is untrue. The best home ping pong tables are 25 mm thick, and there are actually quite a few to choose from. So if you’re a quality player and they are within your budget, I recommend getting one.
Maneuverability
Depending on whether your table is for indoor or outdoor use and the length you’ll have to wheel it, you may want to consider maneuverability as a buying factor.
Lighter tables are the easiest to move around and do not necessarily need large wheels. However, these tend to have thinner table tops, so they are not as fun to play on.
Higher quality tables, by comparison, have thicker table tops and are fairly heavy. As such, they are not as portable. I believe this shouldn’t be too much of an issue for most people. Most tables include durable wheels at least 3″, which is usually sufficient to get a table where you need it to go. Generally, I would only really feel the need to delve deeper if you have to move your table a long distance or across uneven or inclined ground.
Setup
Tabletop quality and price should be your main driving details when choosing a table. However, having a brief setup is a nice luxury. These days, many beginner and intermediate tables arrive 95% pre-assembled. As such, there is only around 15 minutes of assembly from the box to play with very few tools involved.
This is also true for some advanced models. However, many in this category have a significant setup period of a few hours. These tables are also much heavier, which makes the setup more complex. It may be worth enlisting the help of a friend or two to assist with the process.
This can seem like a bit of a pain, but the way I see it, building a table tennis table is far easier than, a sliding wardrobe. It may be time-consuming, but the assembly process is often straightforward and requires limited tools.
Portable Table Tennis Nets vs. Integrated Nets
Almost all tables you purchase come with a net. These are integrated into the table or a portable table tennis net. I prefer the removable kind as these are easier to replace if damaged. Also, integrated nets are not always very good quality.
The best nets feature height and tension adjustment so you can tinker with them to get them set correctly. I wouldn’t let a poor-quality net put you off a good table. You can always just purchase one separately. Clamp-style nets are the most robust, and this is what I recommend. That being said, if you want a removable net that you can use on any table tennis table, a retractable net is a good option. Just know that while these nets are fun, they are not height- or tension-adjustable.
Price
Nobody wants to get ripped off, so compare tables to ensure you get a good deal. Set your non-negotiable conditions e.g., 22 mm table top and lightweight, and then browse to discover what’s on offer. You’d be surprised how much you can save that way.
As an advanced player, I have stricter requirements for a tabletop than what most of you will have, but value for money is always at the forefront of my mind. Some tables are exceedingly expensive with few premium features; in return, they have good style. Of course, ping pong tables are a great art form to express yourself, but ultimately, I’m not dropping an extra four figures simply because a table “looks cool.” And you shouldn’t either. The top-rated ping pong tables are top-rated for a reason. They either offer exceptional value or advertising features.
If squeezing every piece of value out of your hard-earned dollars is your main goal, give this comparison guide a read.
Best Ping Pong Table Brands
I recommend buying a ping pong table from the best brands. These companies have earned a solid reputation in the industry so are very reliable.
- JOOLA
- STIGA
- Butterfly
- Cornilleau
- Kettler
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ping Pong Tables and Table Tennis Tables the Same?
Ping pong tables and table tennis tables are exactly the same. While ping pong is technically a different sport from table tennis, many people use the terms interchangeably. In any case, you play both sports on the same table.
Is a 12 mm Ping Pong Table Good?
12 mm ping pong tables are very poor quality. They are the worse kind on offer and you really should avoid them at all costs. Any player with half-decent skill won't have that much fun using one as the bounce is wildly inconsistent, making the ball tougher to hit for advanced shots.
Is a 16 mm Ping Pong Table Good?
While better than 12 mm tables, you should also avoid 16 mm models if at all possible due to their poor bounce. As a minimum, I recommend 18 mm thick tables.
What Ping Pong Tables Do Professionals Use?
Professionals only use the top ping pong tables from brands like JOOLA, Stiga, Butterfly, Donic, DHS, and Tibhar. This means typically, they shouldn't be using a playing surface thinner than 22mm.
How Much Does a Good Ping Pong Table Cost?
For indoor tables, I recommend a playing surface thickness of at least 18 mm for passionate players. The cheapest 18 mm table currently available is the Stiga Advantage Pro priced at $533, so this is the minimum I consider for a good quality table.
What is the Best Brand of Table Tennis Table?
There isn't a definitive best brand of table tennis table. All of the top manufacturers have elite ping pong tables. However, several brands consistently produce excellent tables. This includes JOOLA, Stiga, Butterfly, Cornilleau, and Kettler.
What is the Best Color for a Ping Pong Table?
Most ping pong tables come in either green or blue and whatever you choose is personal preference — there is technically no advantage to either. I don't care if a table is blue or green, I care more that the color is darker. Brighter tables can be a little off-putting at times which can distract me from the game.
What are Professional Ping Pong Tables Made Of?
Professional tables often use a thick strong metal for the chassis such as steel, whereas the playing surface is usually made from either fibreboard or MDF.
What is the Best Thickness for a Ping Pong Table?
Most ping pong tables go as high as 25 mm which is tournament-grade. However, 30 mm tables are becoming increasingly common. Either is adequate. The thicker, the better.
How Big is a Professional Ping Pong Table?
A professional ping pong table measures 9 x 5 feet and is the same size as the majority of tables on the market.
Conclusion
I’ve looked at a lot of models, but in my eyes, the JOOLA Tour 2500 is the best ping pong table you can buy right now. It is very well-priced, considering it’s a 25 mm thick model, and it has a solid build quality to go with it. The table halves nest together for easy storage as well. This makes it a great choice for club and home use alike.
If you’re instead targeting an outdoor table because don’t want to cram it into your basement, I recommend the Cornilleau 300X if you have the money. It’s a little pricey, but considering the staggering 10-year warranty period, I think it’s worth the cash Cornilleau is asking for. They are experts in outdoor tables, and the 300X embodies this. From the SOFTMAT antiglare surface to the unique DSI 16-point locking system, it’s everything you could want for an outdoor table.
Tight on space? Why not check out our guide for the best mid-size ping pong tables? Or read the full Ping Pong Table Buyer’s Guide.
Freelance writer. Table tennis enthusiast. Lover of all things online. When I’m not working on my loop game I’m probably binge-watching some fantasy show.
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Alex Horscrofthttps://pingpongruler.com/author/alex-horscroft/
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Alex Horscrofthttps://pingpongruler.com/author/alex-horscroft/
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Alex Horscrofthttps://pingpongruler.com/author/alex-horscroft/
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Alex Horscrofthttps://pingpongruler.com/author/alex-horscroft/
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