When seeking new ping pong equipment, especially a table because the old one is in bad condition and needs a replacement, or you are a new buyer. No need to worry, you are exactly where you should be. You need to read carefully as this article will explain how to choose the best table tennis table.
Let’s walk through various ping pong tables and then explain as to which table would be the right choice for you. You will probably ask, how is that possible since there are many different tables on the market with various price ranges and features. The answer is simple, we understand this sport of table tennis therefore, we put everything out as simple as possible, in order for you to find the right ping pong table.
When seeking to buy a table, you should ask yourself a few questions.
- Where do I want to use the table indoor or outdoor?
- Where do I want to operate and store the table?
- How much space do I you have available?
Even more than that, keep in mind as to what you can afford since this will also play a deciding factor. Next, you need to consider what is practical for me to use in regard to color, weight, and quality, and who will be using the table.
Table Tennis Sizes:
Table tennis tables have two size categories: full size and compact. When playing a professional table tennis game, a full-size table should be used even if you are only training. If you’re looking to buy a table to play for fun at your home or office, then you may want to go with the cheaper and smaller size options.
What should be the dimensions of the table:
Table tennis players generally use a table tennis table that is 9X5 feet in size and 2.5 inches from the ground, as recommended by the ITTF. According to USATT, a ping pong net should be 6 inches high with an overhang of 6 inches over each code on the table.
Small table tennis tables
If, for any reason, a full-size table doesn’t work for you, there are a wide variety of compact tables that work well for beginners and competitive table tennis players.
The main sizes are Medium-sized, ¾ Size, and Junior size
Medium-sized table tennis tables
Medium-sized tables are smaller than the regular professional tables but are never less large enough to accommodate 4 players at a time. The smaller the table, the easier it will be to fit in smaller spaces and clear away when done playing. Additionally, they’re usually more affordable, which works great on a smaller budget.
3/4 size tables
3/4 size table tennis tables are smaller than professional tables but larger than medium-sized ones. The 3/4 size tables are usually just referred to as junior tables. The dimensions of each board may differ between manufacturers since each manufacturer can use different terms to describe their boards unless it is a full-size professional board.
Junior sizes
Junior ping pong tables are professional tables in a smaller form, as they are usually the same height. Don’t let the so-called “junior table” put you off – it is probably the same height as the table tennis table.
How much space does a table tennis table need?
You need to create a space for the ping pong table and for the players to play ping pong comfortably. Where the players are standing will take up more space at the ends of the table than on the sides, but you will still need a lot of space around the table. If you have a full-size or professional table, you will need a space of at least 15 x 23 feet. Before buying, be sure to measure the space you will be storing your table and allow for a few extra feet on each end for room to play and for it to be roomy. If the room is too tight for those dimensions, you can opt in for a medium-size table.
The choice of the indoor or outdoor table is a major factor
Ultimately, you can place your table tennis table in your choice location. Nevertheless, an outdoor table is more dependable for it is weatherproof and can constantly remain outside, ready for you to play ping pong.
What should be the thickness of the ping pong table?
You will find cheaper tables usually have a thinner surface than premium and budget tables. One of the important factors in having a thicker table surface is that it will affect how ping pong balls bounce and ricochet from the table. The ITTF suggests that the ping pong tables should be between .5 and 1.2 inches thick for any professional tournament. Cheaper tables vary in thickness and are generally the thinnest.
The ease with which a table tennis table can be folded can be considered as a determining factor. Unless you plan on setting up a table that will always remain in that specific location. Otherwise, being familiar with setting up and storing your table is important. Most tables are easy to store and can be stored folded in a flat position. Other tables may require you to do one or 2 other steps before folding it. The cheap tablets are simple and easy to fold, just like any simple folding table that splits in half.
Also Read: How to Choose the Correct Ping Pong Paddle
