Ping pong is an amazing game that is played all over the world in professional arenas, schools, clubs, parks, offices…..everywhere. It is the best recreational sport that can be enjoyed by all age levels, from 6 years to 65 years. You can also share the taste of excitement with your family and friends by simply bringing a ping pong table into your home. Due to this wide adaptability, there is a huge demand for table tennis equipment. To take advantage of the wide market, suppliers like STIGA, JOOLA, Kettler, Cornilleau, and Killerspin are always trying to impress bringing a better quality product with the help of new innovative technologies. So the search for the best ping pong table is a huge ask. It is quite confusing to consider which one to pick or not to pick.
The first big question is about the necessity of spending such a big amount of money. Simply take a look at the following questions to quicking review your buying decision.
- Do you have enough space in your room to accommodate a ping pong table?
- Do you have playing partners?
- Are you buying the table for your kids or family members?
- Can you hire a coach to train you in your home?
- Do you have a robot to practice with?
If you are convinced on the 1st and any one of the rest questions, then proceed with your interest in the best ping pong table.
What is the Best Ping Pong Table to Buy?: Quick Answer
Best Indoor Table (Home): JOOLA Tour 2500 / JOOLA Inside 25
JOOLA Inside 25 The best ping pong table for home | |
JOOLA Inside 25, a tournament-grade table tennis table for ultimate ball bounce has not only all the great features of a premium table but also has the best performance over price. | |
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Best Table for Money (Recreational): STIGA Advantage
STIGA Advantage The best ping pong table for the money | |
STIGA Advantage, a popular table tennis table, has a 16 mm MDF tabletop with good construction and operational facilities. It is the best choice for a good playing experience (mainly recreational) within a limited budget. | |
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Top 14 Ping Pong Tables: Quick Comparison
| Name | Type & Size | Tabletop Thickness | Frame Thickness | Leg Size | Wheel Diameter | Weight (lbs) |
| JOOLA Tour 2500 | Indoor, Full | 1” (25 mm) | 2” | 2” x 2” | 4” | 249 |
| JOOLA Inside 25 | Indoor, Full | 1” (25 mm) | 2” | 2″ x 1.5″ | 4” | 238 |
| STIGA Advantage | Indoor, Full | ⅝” (15 mm) | 1.2” | 1.2”x1.2” | 3” | 195 |
| STIGA Optimum 30 | Indoor, Full | 1⅕” (30 mm) | 2⅖” | 2⅖” x 1⅗” | 4” | 310 |
| Butterfly Centrefold 25 | Indoor, Full | 1” (25 mm) | 2” | 2” x 2” | 5” | 280 |
| JOOLA Rally TL 300 | Indoor, Full | ⅝” (15 mm) | 1.2” | 1.5”x1.5” | 3” | 148.5 |
| Butterfly Playback 19 | Indoor, Full | ¾” (19 mm) | 1.5” | 1” x 1” | 5” | 170 |
| Butterfly Compact 19 | Indoor, Full | ¾” (19 mm) | Not available | — | — | 167 |
| Butterfly Junior | Indoor, 3/4 | ½” (12 mm) | Not available | — | — | 72 |
| STIGA Space Saver | Indoor, 2/3 | ⅝” (15 mm) | 1.25” | 1.25”x1.25 | — | 79 |
| JOOLA Midsize | Indoor, 2/3 | ⅝” (15 mm) | ¾” | — | — | 62 |
| Cornilleau 600X Outdoor | Outdoor, Full | 7 mm | 60 x 60 mm | 4.8″ x 2.4″ | 8” | 170 |
| STIGA XTR | Outdoor, Full | 6 mm | 1.5” | 1.25”x1.25” | 3” | 166 |
| JOOLA NOVA DX | Outdoor, Full | 6 mm | 1.2” | 1.2”x1.2” | 3” | 144 |
Reviews of 14 Best Ping Pong Tables
| Name | Construction | Performance | Durability | Value For Money | Overall Rating |
| JOOLA Tour 2500 | 4.7/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.7/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 |
| JOOLA Inside 25 | 4.7/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.7/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 |
| STIGA Advantage | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 |
| STIGA Optimum 30 | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 5/5 | 4.9/5 |
| Butterfly Centrefold 25 | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 |
| JOOLA Rally TL 300 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Butterfly Playback 19 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Butterfly Compact 19 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Butterfly Junior 3/4 | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
| STIGA Space Saver | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 |
| JOOLA Midsize | 4.2/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Cornilleau 600X Outdoor | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 |
| STIGA XTR | 4.7/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 |
| JOOLA NOVA DX | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 |
1. JOOLA Inside 25 mm (Best Ping Pong Table For Home)
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 25 mm (1″)
- Table Material: MDF
- Frame thickness: 2″
- Leg Size: 2″ x 1.5″
- Wheel Diameter: 4″
- Weight: 238 lbs
Key Features
- Maximum table thickness
- 95% preassembled
- Foldable compact storage
- Manual height adjusters
- Dual anti-tilting safety devices
- Solo playback mode
- Tournament grade net and posts
Overview of JOOLA Inside 25 mm
Table Thickness: The JOOLA Inside 25 has a table thickness of 25 mm (1 inch). The table thickness is the most important factor for a good table tennis table and this JOOLA Inside Professional fulfills 100% of this criterion with the highest level of thickness. This 1-inch thick MDF multi-layer painted surface gives a consistent and reliable bounce for a pleasant experience for players of all levels. The silkscreen printing on the tabletop provides a smooth and durable surface for ultimate satisfaction.
Dual Trolley System: This table features a dual trolley system where each trolley has an individual table half. Each half is supported by 2″ x 1.5″ sturdy black powder-coated steel legs and 4” lockable caster wheels. There are rubber levelers at the bottom of the legs to keep your floor scratch-free and adjust the height of the table manually. You can also free the space by nesting table halves together in the ultra-compact storage position.
Safety Features: This table comes with several good safety features like a spring-loaded safety latch which locks the tabletop into an upright position and prevents it from unfolding unexpectedly. There is a locking mechanism in each caster wheel for safety during play, transport & storage.
Operational Features:
- Portability and less storage space
- Quick assembly (10-20 minutes)
- Solo playback mode
Pros
- Good consistent bounce
- Strong and durable
- Affordable
- USATT approved
Cons
- Bigger wheels of 6” or 8” dia would be more advantageous for movement
Summary: Inside 25, the most popular ping pong table from JOOLA has a 1-inch thick MDF multi-layer painted surface with good constructional features. This reasonably priced table meets all the benchmarks for being considered the best tournament-grade table for home.
2. JOOLA Tour 2500 (Best Ping Pong Table For Home)
JOOLA Tour 2500 is almost identical to the Inside 25 table. The only noticeable minor difference is the size of the legs. The weight of the Tour 2500 is marginally higher (249 lbs) due to thicker square steel legs (2″ x 2″) compared to the JOOLA Inside 25 (239 lbs) which consists of 2″ x 1.5″ steel legs.
For more information, check my review on “JOOLA Inside 25 Vs Tour 2500: Which is Better?“.
Pros
- Good consistent bounce
- Sturdy undercarriage
- Strong auto-foldable legs
- USATT approved
Cons
- Heavyweight
Summary: If you want a good tournament-grade table at your home at an affordable price, this sturdy 1″ (25 mm) thick JOOLA TOUR 2500 with many good features can satisfy all of your needs.
3. STIGA Advantage (Best Ping Pong Table for Money)
Stiga Advantage is a very popular table, the best choice to enjoy ping pong in your home within a limited budget. It is a great product by STIGA Sports, a global Swedish table tennis company that started production in 1944.
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 16 mm (5/8″)
- Table Material: MDF
- Frame Size: 1.2″
- Leg Size: 1.2″ x 1.2″
- Wheel Diameter: 3″
- Weight: 195 lbs
Key Features
- 95% preassembled
- Compact and foldable
- Safety latch to prevent opening
- Self-foldable legs
- Adjustable leg levelers
- Playback mode
- Tournament grade Clamp-style net
Overview of STIGA Advantage
Tabletop Technology: STIGA Advantage comes with a table thickness of 16 mm (5/8″) which is not recommended for young aspirants of table tennis. If you are serious about table tennis, it is highly recommended to go with the top model, STIGA Advantage Pro which has a 19 mm (3/4″) thick tabletop. The 16 mm thick tabletop of STIGA Advantage is good for enjoying ping pong with your friends and family members.
To restrict the tabletop from sagging, there is a 1.2” thick steel apron that keeps the surface flat for a uniform bounce.
Smooth Surface: STIGA Advantage has a multi-layer coating that brings a smooth and even surface for a uniform bounce. At first, the table surface is painted by a repeated roller coating process. Then Ultraviolet radiation cures the coating for a smooth, durable, and consistent playing surface. Finally, Silkscreen stripping gives the final touch for a smoother experience.
Sturdy Undercarriage: Each half of the table has its beam structure to enable it to separate from the other. The 30 mm (1.2″ x 1.2″) alloy steel legs give the table a solid foundation.
The table rests upon 8 ball-bearing 3″ wheels with a lockable mechanism for better handling and added safety. Each outer leg is equipped with a height leveler to adjust the height to ensure a level playing surface.
Pros
- Smooth surface
- Good finish
- Value for money
- Prompt customer service
Cons
- Suitable for recreation
Suggested topic: JOOLA Inside Vs STIGA Advantage
Summary: STIGA Advantage has all the qualities of being the best ping pong table for recreation in your home. It has a 16 mm thick tabletop for decent ball bounce, a strong undercarriage, and all the supportive features. Most importantly, you can get it within a very limited budget.
4. STIGA Optimum 30 (Best Tournament-Standard Table)
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 30 mm (1⅕”)
- Table Material: MDF
- Frame thickness: 2⅖”
- Leg Size: 2⅖” x 1⅗”
- Wheel Diameter: 4″
- Weight: 310 lbs
Key Features
- Highest-ever tabletop thickness
- Foldable and Compact
- Playback facility
- Height adjuster
- Innovative locking system
- STIGA VM Net and post system
- ITTF approved
- One-year warranty
Overview of STIGA Optimum 30
Tabletop: The main attraction of the Optimum 30 is the 30 mm thick tabletop, which is the highest for any kind of table. That means you will get the truest possible bounce anywhere, be it in the middle or at the edge. The feeling that you will get from the uniformity and consistency of bounce may thrill you from the first ball you hit on the table. Moreover, the MDF tabletop is pretreated several times and then coated with a special painting for the right kind of gloss and frictional coefficient to get the perfect spin and ultimate bounce of the ball.
Undercarriage: The 2⅖” strong steel apron gives the perfect support to keep the tabletop flat to get the evenness of bounce. Also, to bear the huge load, the Optimum 30 consists of 4 sturdy steel legs (2⅖” x 1⅗”). It is easy to fold the table halves to a compact shape of 25” with the help of the auto-foldable nature of legs. Eight 4” machine-grade ball-bearing caster wheels help for smooth transportation of the folded table halves from one place to another.
Other Features
- Safety Features: Innovative locking system and lockable caster wheels
- Playback facility
- Height adjuster at the bottom of each leg
- Premium tournament-standard STIGA VM net and posts
Pros
- Best possible bounce
- Well-built and durable
- Compact storage
- High-quality net system
Cons
- Heavyweight
- 1-2 hours assembly time
Summary: STIGA Optimum 30 is truly optimum in the sense of table thickness. It is the first-ever ping pong table that has a massive 30 mm thick tabletop for unparalleled consistency and uniformity of ball rebound that gives you the best feeling. The supportive structural parts are strong, sturdy, and well-built to match this heavy table. STIGA Optimum 30 is the best tournament-standard ping pong table for its supreme performance to give you the ultimate satisfaction.
5. Butterfly Centrefold 25
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 25 mm (1″)
- Frame thickness: 2″
- Leg Size: 2″ x 2″
- Wheel diameter: 5″
- Weight: 280 lbs
Key Features
- 25 mm tabletop for ultimate bounce
- Strong and sturdy undercarriage
- Fully assembled
- Bigger wheels (5″) for easy movement
- Tournament Grade Butterfly Europa net
- ITTF approved
Overview of Butterfly Centrefold 25
Tabletop Technology: The Centrefold 25, an excellent, well-made table tennis table from Butterfly matches all the top-quality features as per tournament standards. The 1” anti-skid tabletop grips the ball perfectly for a true and consistent bounce that gives you ultimate satisfaction when dealing with topspin and backspin. To keep the table surface perfectly flat, a heavy, sturdy 2” thick steel rail supports the tabletop. Each corner of the top is covered with a magenta cornerpiece for protection during play.
Undercarriage: This tournament standard table has strong 2” foldable square steel legs which rest on 5” bigger rubber wheels for easier transportation. The table is very easy to fold and takes a 20” compact shape for easy storage.
Other features:
- Fully assembled
- Safety locking mechanism to prevent from unfolding
- Two locking wheels
- High-quality, Europa net from Butterfly used for tournaments
- Height adjuster screws at the bottom of each leg
Pros
- High-quality anti-skid thick table surface
- Exceptional true and reliable bounce
- High standard strong undercarriage
- Sturdy and durable
- 5 years warranty
Cons
- High price
- No playback facility
Summary: If you are desperate for a high-quality tournament standard table for an ultimate playing experience, the Butterfly Centrefold 25 table tennis table is highly recommended for you. This study table has everything, starting with a 1” scratch-proof, anti-skid top, 2” thick heavy-duty steel rail for support, 2” square steel legs to bear the load, and a 5” bigger rubber wheel for easy transportation. The downside is that this table costs much more than a standard 25 mm table.
6. JOOLA Rally TL 300
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 15 mm (5/8″)
- Table Material: MDF
- Frame thickness: 1.2″
- Leg Size: 1.5″ x 1.5″
- Wheel Diameter: 3″
- Weight: 148.5 lbs
Key Features
- Smooth charcoal table surface
- 15 mins. assembly time
- Foldable and compact
- Lockable caster wheels
- Clamp-style net and posts
- Playback facility
- Ball holder
Overview of JOOLA Rally TL 300/ United Pro 15
Tabletop Technology: This tabletop is made from medium-density fibreboard (MDF) with silk-screened white striping. The smooth 15 mm (5/8”) tabletop produces a consistent bounce that suffices the requirements for enjoying ping pong in your room. This charcoal table can be a perfect solution to make your family members engaged in recreation. A rectangular 30 x 30 mm size apron supports the tabletop and prevents it from sagging.
Each half of the table has a separate trolley mounted on 4 wheels and the two halves can be nested together for compact storage. Also, one half of the table can be placed vertically against the other for your solo practice.
Undercarriage: This table comes with sturdy powder-coated 1.5” rectangular-shaped steel legs that give a solid base. The levelers placed at the bottom of each leg keep the floor free from scratch and also you can adjust the height manually.
Accessories: There is a ball holder in each corner of the table with a maximum capacity to hold three balls. Also, two magnetic abacus scorers make it a unique and stylish addition to your home.
JOOLA Rally TL comes with a regulation height good quality net that is super easy to clamp to divide the table into two parts.
Other Models: For table tennis learners and professional players, it is better to choose other variants, JOOLA Rally TL 500 that have an 18 mm (3/4″) top with a 40×40 mm apron, or the JOOLA Rally TL 700 with 25 mm (1″) top and a 50×50 mm apron.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle
- Good for recreation
- Value for money
Cons
- Not for serious learners
Summary: If you want a good ping pong table for recreation at a lucrative price, this 15 mm thick JOOLA Rally TL 300 (also named as United Pro 15) with all its attractive features is a good option to fulfill your dream reality of making your room into a table tennis room.
7. Butterfly Playback 19
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 19 mm (3/4″)
- Table Material: Wood
- Frame Size: 1.5″
- Leg Size: 1″ x 1″
- Wheel Diameter: 5″
- Weight: 170 lbs
Key Features
- 2-3 hrs. assembly time
- Smooth tabletop (Blue/ Green)
- Playback mode
- Safety locking lever
- Safety beam
- Permanent perfect II net set
- Racket & ball holder
Overview of Butterfly Playback 19
Tabletop Technology: Butterfly Playback 19 is a full-size table tennis table consisting of a wooden 19 mm blue/ green colored tabletop. Though a 19 mm thick top does not match the highest standard (25 mm), it is more than sufficient for entertainment in your home and also meets the benchmark of a regulation table for table tennis learners. This smooth tabletop rests on a strong 1.5” steel frame which maintains the flatness of the top for many years to come.
Other Features: Out of the 8 steel legs (1” x 1”), the inner 4 legs are bolted with bigger 5” plastic-coated wheels which help you to glide folded table haves to desired locations.
You need minimum effort to fold or unfold this butterfly ping pong table. Two safety locking levers take care of the safety of the folded table to prevent accidental opening.
This compact indoor table comes with a fixed net system. So you don’t need to set up the net every time after unfolding.
The downside of the Butterfly Rollaway Playback is the absence of some important features. There is no provision for levelers at the bottom of the legs. So, on an uneven surface, you may face difficulties in maintaining equal height at both ideas of the table. Also, it is a hectic task to assemble this Playback Rollaway table tennis table. You have to hire at least 2 people to assemble the segmented parts which requires 2-3 hours.
Pros
- Good finish
- Easy to fold/ unfold
- Fixed net attachment system
- 3 Years warranty
Cons
- No provision for height adjustment
- 2-3 hrs assembly time
Summary: If you want a ping pong table for a good bounce for recreational activities, this Butterfly Playback with a 19 mm thick tabletop supported by a sturdy frame is a good choice. This table has a lot of quality features like easy handling, good safety systems, and supportive accessories to make it even more lucrative. But you have to bear the disadvantages of longer assembly time and the absence of manual height adjustment.
8. Butterfly Compact 19
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (Full Size)
- Play Dimensions: 9’ L X 5’ W X 2.6’ H
- Folded Dimensions: 4’8” x 5’ x 5”
- Table Thickness: 19 mm (3/4″)
- Frame Material: Steel
- Weight: 167 lbs
Key Features
- 19 mm tabletop for reliable bounce
- Assembly Time: 10 minutes
- Butterfly clip net and post-set
- Available in Blue/ Green colors
- 3 years warranty
Overview of Butterfly Compact 19
Tabletop Technology: Butterfly Compact 19, a simply designed ping pong table consists of two halves that rest on a sturdy steel frame to keep the table surface flat for getting uniform ball bounce.
The tabletop is 19 mm thick which is not only great for recreation but also good enough for competitive players. The brand, Butterfly always adds great value to its products which is reflected by the quality of bounce that this table offers. The combination of good bounce with a bright blue/ green surface will give a nice experience for your enjoyment.
Undercarriage: This table has four sturdy legs with two small wheels on one side of each half. It takes nearly 10 minutes to assemble the table by just unfolding the legs, joining the table halves, and fixing the net.
The downside is that you need to secure the table halves if they are stored against the wall. Otherwise, there will be always a possibility of falling over the halves on someone which may result in a fatal accident.
Pros
- Good bounce
- Small storage space
- Easy to assemble
- Good quality clamp-style net
Cons
- Not an easy task to handle each heavy table half
- No playback option
Summary: As the name suggests, Butterfly Compact 19 is a compact table of 19 mm thick top with equal halves supported by a strong steel frame that requires little space for storage. This table is an ideal choice for a quality table for your home that offers value and playability to engage with table tennis. But you need extra security arrangements during storage.
9. Butterfly Junior – 3/4 Size
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (3/4 Size)
- Play Dimensions: 6.75 X 3.75 X 2.5 ft
- Folded Dimensions: 44.5″ x 41.5″ x 5″
- Table Thickness: 12 mm (1/2″)
- Frame Material: Steel
- Colors: Blue/ Green
- Weight: 72 lbs
Key Features
- 12 mm tabletop for entertainment
- Two-piece separate table halves
- Compact storage solution (5″ width)
- Corner protection pad for safety
- Regulation height Butterfly clip net
- 3 years warranty
Overview of Butterfly Junior
If you have a shortage of space to accommodate a full-size table, the very first alternative is a slightly small table, i.e. 3/4 size of a regulation table tennis table.
The Butterfly Junior has two separate table halves with a thickness of 12 mm (1/2″). A 12 mm thick table is not at all good for serious table tennis learners but if you are looking for a table only to engage your family members and friends with the enjoyment of ping pong, this Butterfly Junior can be handy for you.
For the support of the tabletop, there is a steel apron that keeps the surface flat for a long time, and sturdy legs that can be folded to form the table into a 5″ width compact shape. It is very easy to move the compact table halves to the desired storage location with the help of the attached wheels to the center side of each table half.
This Butterfly Junior comes in 100% preassembled condition. After receiving the package, just unfold the legs and join the table halves. Only you have to do one extra work, i.e. attach the net to the table and you are ready to go. Yes, it’s that simple. It hardly takes 5-10 minutes to complete the assembly work.
This table includes a standard height easy-to-put net with arrangements to adjust tension. The protective pad in each corner keeps your children safe during play. You also have the option to choose any vibrant color between blue and green.
Pros
- Best size next to a full-size table
- Good design
- Minimum assembly time
Cons
- Only 12 mm thick tabletop
- No playback facility
Summary: This is purely a recreation ping pong table (only 12 mm thick tabletop) from Butterfly, a world-famous brand in table tennis. Though it is slightly smaller (¾th of a full-size table), which you may call a space saver, it gives you the feel of a full-size table tennis table.
10. STIGA Space Saver (Best Midsize Ping Pong Table)
If you have less room for a full-size table, STIGA Space Saver, easily comparable with a standard table, is the best option to enjoy ping pong in your home.
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (2/3 Size)
- Play Dimensions: 71″ L x 40.5″ W x 30″ H
- Table Thickness: 15 mm (5/8″)
- Tabletop Material: MDF
- Leg Size: 1.25″ x 1.25″
- Leg Material: Steel
- Colors: Blue/ Woodgrain
- Weight: 79 lbs
Key Features
- Great for small spaces (2/3 of full-size)
- Smooth surface for a good bounce
- Independent table halves
- Only 2-3 minutes required for assembly
- Minimum space needed for storage
- Regulation height net
Overview of STIGA Space Saver
As the name implies, the STIGA Space Saver saves space in your compartment. The length and width of this table are 71” and 40.5” which are 2/3 rd (108” x 60”) of a full-size table. STIGA keeps the height (30″) the same as a full-size table to prevent messing up your game.
The most important feature of this Space Saver is the table thickness. Being a small table, it has a table thickness of 16 mm (5/8″) which you will find in the standard size table with a huge price difference.
This tabletop is made with MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) which is smother than plywood and particleboard. Moreover, to enhance the smoothness, the table is painted with a repeat roller coat process with silkscreen striping for a perfect finish.
The STIGA Space Saver consists of two equal separate halves with foldable legs. The 1.25” rectangular powder-coated steel legs enhance the strength and rigidity of this table. It is not a daunting task to carry the lightweight table halves (39.5 lbs or 18 kg) to the desired location for a compact storage solution.
It is also a piece of cake for you to assemble the newly received table within 2-3 minutes. First, unfold the legs, then join each half, and finally attach the net. That’s all. Now, you are ready to enjoy the new ping pong table in your home.
You also have the option to choose any color between blue and woodgrain.
Pros
- Good bounce for a small size table
- Sturdy steel legs
- Multi-use table
- Pocket-friendly
Cons
- Not a regulation-size table
- Suitable for recreation only
Summary: STIGA Space Saver, a midsize table tennis table, is designed to fit in a compact space where a regulation table can’t be accommodated. Being a small table, it has a 5/8″ thick tabletop and 1.25″ square strong steel legs that you will find in a standard table tennis table. With an attractive price tag, it is one of the best portable ping pong tables for consideration.
11. JOOLA Midsize Compact
Specifications
- Type: Indoor (2/3 Size)
- Play Dimensions: 6 X 3.3 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 15 mm (5/8″)
- Tabletop Material: MDF
- Colors: Blue/ Black
- Weight: 62 lbs
Key Features
- 2/3 of a full-size table
- Two equal square table halves
- No assembly is required
- Compact storage
- Multi-purpose table halves
Overview of JOOLA Midsize Compact Table
The JOOLA Midsize compact, 2/3 of a full-size table, comes with a thickness of 16 mm (5/8″). The table can be separated into two halves. Each half is self-standing and square (36″ x 36″) which can be used for multipurpose like a card game with your friends.
It requires no time to make the table ready by just unfolding the legs and joining the two halves within 2-3 minutes. It is also easy to carry lightweight table halves to store in a closet or under your bed.
There are two models of JOOLA Midsize, one is JOOLA Midsize Classic and the other one is JOOLA Midsize Sport. JOOLA Classic features a blue-colored tabletop whereas JOOLA Classic has a black tabletop with a white line down the middle.
Pros
- Good bounce
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not a standard-size table
- Not for serious play
Summary: If you are sort of space, JOOLA Midsize Compact, a midsize table (2/3 of full size) is a good solution to convert your room into a ping pong room. It has 2 equal 15 mm thick MDF table halves with 4 foldable sturdy legs that can be easily joined within minutes to start playing.
12. Cornilleau 600X Outdoor (Best Premium Outdoor Table)
If you wish for a top-quality outdoor table that is best in features and gives the feel of an indoor table, this foldable premium Cornilleau 600X Outdoor is an option for you.
Specifications
- Type: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Surface: 7 mm Resin laminate
- Coating: MATTOP
- Frame Material: Aluminum/Zinc Alloy
- Frame Size: 60 mm x 60 mm
- Wheel Diameter: 200 mm (8″)
- Weight: 170 lbs
Key Features
- 7 mm weather-resistant resin laminate panel with melamine coating
- MATTOP coating to reduce sun glares
- Corrosion-resistant thick sturdy frame
- Assembly Time: 2-3 hours
- Bigger wheels (8″) for easy movement
- Water-proof retractable net
- 10 years warranty
Overview of Cornilleau 600X Outdoor
Tabletop Technology: The main feature of an outdoor table is to withstand sunlight, frost, and storms. The top is made with a 7 mm thick ultradurable panel in resin laminate with melamine coating. The melamine coating is naturally excellent and water-resistant. In addition to water-proof characteristics, this high-pressure laminate is also shock-resistant. To enhance visibility in sunlight, the outer MATTOP finish reduces sun glares to a high degree.
As an outdoor table, 7 mm thickness is enough to produce a good bounce for your entertainment.
Other Features: This premium outdoor table has lots of high-end features. The frame is very thick (60 mm x 60 mm) and supports the top to remain flat over the years. The frame is made with aluminum/Zinc alloy to resist corrosion.
The separate halves can be easily folded and unfolded by using a central release handle. It is very easy to roll the compact unit with the help of the 4 oversize double wheels of 200 mm diameter.
This table comes with a water-proof retractable net with a height and tension adjustment facility.
Pros
- Thick tabletop with excellent water-resistant properties
- Excellent rebound quality
- Excellent playability
- Easy to fold or unfold
- Very strong and highly durable
- The presence of bigger wheels is advantageous for movement
- Excellent for safety
Cons
- High price
- Assembly work needs a lot of time
Summary: Though the Cornilleau 600X Outdoor is priced much higher than a standard outdoor table, it is an exceptionally well-designed table for easy maneuverability, utmost safety, and weather-resistant capabilities, and also has very good playability. For an excellent value over price, this folding, compact Cornilleau 600X Outdoor is the right choice for consideration of the best premium outdoor table.
13. STIGA XTR (Best Budget Outdoor Table)
Stiga XTR, a reasonably priced foldable table with a 6 mm aluminum composite top and all good features, is considered the best affordable outdoor ping pong table for the home.
Specifications
- Type: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Tabletop: 6 mm Aluminum composite
- Frame Thickness: 1.5″
- Leg Size: 1.25″ x 1.25″
- Wheel Diameter: 3″
- Weight: 166 lbs
Key Features
- 6 mm weather-resistant tabletop
- Galvanized steel legs to resist corrosion
- Assembly Time: 10-15 minutes
- Solo playback mode
- Water-proof net
- 1-year warranty
Overview of STIGA XTR Outdoor Table
All-Weather Tabletop: STIGA XTR is an outdoor table where the aluminum composite is used as a material of the tabletop to protect the surface from bad weather conditions. The tabletop thickness of an outdoor table generally starts from 4 mm whereas STIGA XTR has a table thickness of 6 mm which is good. A sturdy steel apron supports the tabletop to keep it flat for an even bounce for years to come.
Underframe Construction: One important feature of an outdoor table is to prevent rust formation. STIGA XTR has two halves with an individual trolley system. Each half has four 1.25″ square legs that are made with galvanized steel where a coating of zinc is provided to protect against rust formation.
The inner legs of each half rest on four 3″ ball-bearing caster wheels with a locking mechanism to prevent it from rolling. There are four levelers fixed at the bottom of the legs to make sure that the table is flat and that the two halves are perfectly aligned.
Another important aspect is that the legs of this table have a self-opening feature. When you fold or unfold the table haves, the legs are automatically closed or opened to sustain you from any manual action.
The STIGA XTR includes a premium 72″ all-weather net and post sets that can be easily fixed by tightening a screw.
Pros
- Good bounce for an outdoor table
- Easy to handle
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- The glossy surface is an issue for glare under the sun.
Summary: Stiga XTR is an excellent choice for an all-weather table that can engage your family members engaged with ping pong in your garden, patio, or garage. The combination of an aluminum composite top, galvanized steel apron, and legs provide good weather-proof properties to keep your table live in play for years.
14. JOOLA NOVA DX
Specifications
- Type: Outdoor
- Dimensions: 9 X 5 X 2.5 ft
- Table Thickness: 6 mm
- Table Surface: Al and plastic composite
- Apron Thickness: 1.2”
- Leg Size: 1.2″ x 1.2″
- Wheel Diameter: 3″
- Weight: 144 lbs
Key Features
- Outdoor table tennis table
- Weather-resistant tabletop
- Rustproof legs and frame
- Double anti-tilt locking device
- 95% preassembled
- Solo playback mode
- Water-proof net
Overview of JOOLA NOVA DX
JOOLA NOVA DX is very similar to STIGA XTR in constructional features with a 6 mm All-plastic waterproof tabletop. The main difference is the size of the frame (1.2″ for Nova DX and 1.5″ for XTR), which makes STIGA XTR (166 lbs) slightly heavier than the JOOLA NOVA DX (144 lbs).
Read: “STIGA XTR Vs JOOLA NOVA: Which is Better?“
Pros
- Good bounce for an outdoor table
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
Cons
- Matching two halves on an uneven surface is not easy.
Summary: JOOLA NOVA DX, a nearly identical outdoor table to STIGA XTR has a 6 mm all-weather aluminum-plastic composite tabletop and rustproof undercarriage that can make you enjoy ping pong over the years.
Other Models: You may check the other two models of JOOLA NOVA with a slight variation in the frame, and leg size.
For more information regarding Outdoor Tables, Check my article “The Best Outdoor Ping Pong Tables 2024 (Compared)“.
Buying Guide of Ping Pong Table: Selection Factors
Based on the following factors, you should judge the quality of a table according to your requirements.
1. Types of Ping Pong Tables
For your home, you have the option to choose different types of tables according to your needs.
1. Full-size Table (Indoor)
This is the standard-size table tennis table that is also used in competitions. You need a minimum room size of 5.5m x 3.5m (19ft x 12ft) to accommodate this table.
Dimensions: 9 ft x 5 ft x 2.5 ft (2740 mm x 1525 mm x 760 mm)
2. 3/4 Size Table
Dimensions – 6.75 ft x 3.75 ft x 2.5 ft (2.06 m x 1.14 m x 0.76 m)
3. Mid-Size Table
Dimensions– 5.94 ft x 3.36 ft x 2.5 ft (1.81 m x 1.025 m x 0.76 m)
4. Mini Table
Dimensions – 4.5 ft x 3 ft x 2 ft (1.37 m x 0.9 m x 0.6 m)
5. Outdoor Ping Pong Table
These are also full-size tables that are kept outside. To sustain against water, heat, storm, and frost, the tabletop is made with water-resistant materials like aluminum and resin laminate. Also, the legs and frames are rust-proof.
2. The Thickness of the Tabletop
The thickness of a tabletop is the most important criterion for judging a table tennis table. Almost 50% weightage should be given to the thickness factor out of the total considerable factors.
In the market, you will find tables of various thicknesses. It starts at 12 mm and ends at 25 mm. The thicker the table, the better and more uniform bounce you can get by hitting a ball.
- 12 mm (0.47 inch) – This is only for recreational purposes, it does not give a good bounce.
- 16 mm (0.63 inches) – You should not consider it for serious gameplay.
- 18 mm (0.7 inches) – It is the minimum standard thickness for a good bounce.
- 22 mm (0.87 inches) – This table produces a nice and uniform bounce.
- 25 mm (0.98 inches) – It is the best for competitions.
3. Material of the Table
You will find the ping pong tables made of the following materials.
- Plywood
- MDF
- Particle Board
Particle Board is not at all a good choice. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is the most common and the smoothest among the three. Plywood is the best in terms of quality and durability but it costs more than MDF.
4. Undercarriage
It is the structure on which the table rests. Depending upon the type of table, it may be a single trolley type or dual trolley type.
Important considerations
- Rectangular-shaped legs give more longevity and strength than round-shaped legs.
- Look for sturdier frames, It prevents the tabletop from sagging.
- Leg Leveler may be an added feature to the undercarriage. It comes into play when the floor is uneven.
- Look for the bigger diameter wheels for an easy handling solution.
5. Table Tennis Net
Most of the tables come with a table tennis net. It is the central divider of a table and is fixed with the net post on the edge of the table.
6. Operational Features of a Ping Pong Table
There are some operational features that you should also keep in mind.
- Assembly Time: After receiving the shipment, it is hectic to make a table ready to play. I had to hire one extra man and we almost spent two hours fixing the nuts and bolts to make the table stand on its legs.
- Portability: Your table should be portable enough so that it can be easily moved from play to storage location or vice versa.
- Storage Space: Your table should be compact enough for minimum storage space.
- Solo Playing Mode: This feature enables you to practice when you are sort of a practice partner.
7. Safety Features of a Ping Pong Table
- Check the provision of the locking mechanism on the wheels. The locking mechanism in each wheel prevents the table from rolling during play.
- Check the spring-loaded safety latch underneath each half of the table. When you fold the table for storage, safety latches prevent the table halves from opening suddenly.
- The protective corners are also an important consideration. There should be four protective corners to safeguard your children during play.
Weightage Factors for Selection of a Ping Pong Table
The following chart depicts the approximate weightage factors of the above considerations. Among them, the maximum weightage should be given on table thickness.
What are the Best Brands of Ping Pong Tables?
There are many reputable brands for table tennis tables. For home use, the names, JOOLA, and STIGA come first. These two manufacturers have a wide variety of affordable quality tables that suffice the requirements for enjoying ping pong. They also offer high-priced tables of better quality for use in competitions.
There are also some big brands like Cornilleau, Butterfly, Kettler, and Killerspin which are famous for manufacturing high-quality tables. If you want premium outdoor ping pong tables, then Cornilleau and Kettler are the best.
For more information: “6 Best Ping Pong Table Brands for Quality & Playability“
Conclusion
All the tables mentioned above are top-quality products that offer superior performance to satisfy your needs. Among them, the following tables are the best in different segments considering the price-performance ratio.
- Best Indoor Table (Tournament standard): STIGA Optimum 30
- Best Indoor Table (Home): JOOLA Inside Professional /JOOLA Tour 2500
- Best Indoor Table for Money: STIGA Advantage
- Best Mid-size table: STIGA Space Saver
- Best Budget Outdoor Table: STIGA XTR
FAQs
1. How do you define a ping pong table?
A table tennis table shall be made of a continuous material like hardwood to yield a uniform bounce of about 23 cm (9 inches) when a ball is dropped from 30 cm (11.8 inches) height.
2. What should be the color of a table tennis table?
As per official rule, the surface of the table must be uniformly dark-colored and matte. The blue and green colored tables are more popular.
3. Is there any difference between a ping pong table and a table tennis table?
No, there is no difference between a ping pong table and a table tennis table.
4. What is the difference between an indoor and outdoor table tennis table?
The playing surface of indoor tables is wood for better and uniform bounce, whereas outdoor tables come with a mixture of water-resistant materials. The undercarriage of an outdoor table is sturdier and more water-resistant than an indoor table to survive the weather.
5. Can an indoor table be used as an outdoor table?
No, indoor tables should not be placed outdoors for playing ping pong. As wood is the playing surface of an indoor table, it can’t survive against water and heat.
6. Which is the best wood to make a ping pong table?
Plywood, MDF (Medium-density fiberboard), and particle board are used for making indoor ping pong tables. Among the three kinds of wood, plywood is the best in quality.
7. What ping pong tables do professionals use?
Only the ITTF-approved tables of 25 mm thickness are used in National events and major tournaments. To get the same playing conditions, high-quality 25 mm thick tables are preferred by professionals. The Butterfly Centrefold 25 is a good example of that.
8. How much does a quality ping pong table cost?
The price of a table mainly depends on three factors, table thickness, undercarriage structure, and brand value. While a 15 mm thick table from JOOLA or STIGA costs around $300, the price of a 25 mm table from the same manufacturer is close to $1000. For Butterfly, the cost is much higher, almost double in comparison to STIGA and JOOLA.
If you are thinking of an outdoor table, you have to pay more dollars than an indoor table due to its many additional quality features.
Wrapping Up
All the above ping pong tables can give you the best experience according to your needs. Always use a good-quality ping pong table cover to ensure the longevity of your table.
I have tried hard to depict the picture on the best ping pong table to ease your selection. If you have any questions, you are welcome to ask in the comment box below.
Thanks for continuing till the end.
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