What to Look for When Buying a New Table Tennis Table

The holidays are upon us, and those of you who are looking for a new table tennis table are eagerly awaiting the sweet discounts that soon follow. But even with the big discounts, tables can still be pretty expensive. Therefore, we’re going to show you the most important characteristics that you should focus on when comparing ping-pong tables.

What’s The Most Important Characteristic?

First and most important: surface thickness. The table’s surface is the most important aspect to consider because it has the greatest affect on the ball, and subsequently the game.

Throughout your shopping for an indoor table, you will notice a surface thickness ranging from around 5/8 inch to 1 inch, and a price range from about $400 to $2000. The thicker the surface, the higher the price.

Don’t let the small add-ons and miscellaneous extras distract you from this most important attribute! Do you really need four-inch locking caster wheels on an indoor table? I doubt it.

Outdoor Table Tennis Tables

While surface thickness is still the most important part of the table, making sure your table can withstand the weather is key when considering an outdoor table. That’s why these tables are manufactured with a material that specifically combats glare and warping, and are designed to be weather resistant.

Keep in mind, however, that this additional surface treatment results in a bit higher cost. 

 You can find outdoor tables of decently quality generally ranging from to $500-$3000.

Second Most Important Characteristic

Second: The second most important characteristic will vary depending upon who is going to be using your table. Do you have small children? If so, if might be a good idea to get a table with locking wheels for extra safety and a large chassis to prevent the frame from bending. (Kids love to sit on ping pong tables.)  Do you have a hard time finding a decent opponent? Then maybe the play-back feature is an important attribute that you need to have. Maybe you don’t want to assemble it and want the table to arrive assembled. The point is, while the surface thickness will undecidedly affect game-play, other characteristics may be more important to a particular player. You must decide what's best for you!  

Compare table tennis tables with this GIANT comparison chart.

Last But Important Characteristic

Third: The ball. You might be thinking, I thought this was about tables? But it is. Even with a professional table, if you’re playing with a low-quality ball the game-play will be negatively affected.

I know you have picked up one of those cheap Ping Pong balls at the neighborhood pool or Rec Center, and after a few rallies threw the ball down in disgust. But you don't need to bother with discount balls: a 6-pack of high quality balls is less than $10.

Conclusion 

While the surface thickness is undecidedly the most important characteristic for the majority of people, your table choice should take into consideration your lifestyle. Perhaps you have a small child who you fear will lose interest after a short while... it might be smart to reconsider ordering that $1500 Olympic gold-plated table tennis table.

Happy Holidays.