Robert is a professional journalist who’s also a freelance writer in his free time. He loves science-fiction stories and documentaries about UFO. Robert is also planning t read more
Jim Yang is our site founder. As a pro ping pong player in the past, he's also our main expert consultant. In his spare time, Jim teaches kids table tennis, goes hiking, and read more
Last updated: July 26, 2023
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Did you know that ping pong was originally played with books? It was created by British soldiers in India during the 1870s. They would hit a golf-ball back and forth to each other using books as bats and a row of books stood up along the center of the table as a net.
When shopping for the best ping pong table, make sure you consider its material. Fiberboard is a great choice for indoor use, while the laminate suits the outside best. Also don’t forget about the size. Most tables regulated by the ITTF or USATT will be regulation size and wheelchair accessible. After reviewing 52 different models we came up with a list of top 10 picks, and the Killerspin MyT 450 got our Editor’s Choice nomination.
The Killerspin MyT 415 is one of the best home table tennis tables you can get for under $1,000. It looks great, performs even better, and is a perfect table for those who want quality for a reasonable price.
It’s a great table for beginners and families and is the best ping pong table for a garage, spare room, or basement for impromptu games and casual tournaments. The current revision even allows for design customization.
Why is it special?
One of the coolest things about this table is the ability to get custom graphics for the net area. The individual levelers help with uneven flooring surfaces while locking wheels keep the table firmly in place. The solo practice option is handy when other players aren't around, and the professional size gets you used to play on a full-size table. The lightweight and two-piece design allow the table to be easily stored or moved.
What are the flaws?
The physics of the table tennis table are great for beginners, but the 16mm tabletop feels a little too light and could be a little thicker to provide even better movement and bounce. The delivery options leave a little to be desired as well, as the free delivery option is a curbside drop-off, leaving you to bring it in and set it up. Setup is available for an additional cost and includes full setup and garbage disposal.
When it comes to a solid table with an unbeatable luxury feel, the RS Barcelona You and Me just cannot be topped. The entire table is constructed from premium materials and is the image of premium ping pong tables.
The RS Barcelona You and Me is the most high-end model made by RS Barcelona, with it being one step beyond their flagship RS table. The top is walnut instead of laminate and is designed to be a fully indoor luxury table and one of the best ping pong tables for a home that you can buy.
What makes it special?
The You and Me stand out from most other tables in its appearance, but also in its function and ability. The solid walnut top allows for incredible bounce characteristics but also holds up to activities like meals, conferences, and meetings. It includes a net, six balls, and two paddles. We also love the fact that it is lighter than some thinner tables, making it feel solid without being too heavy and a hassle to move.
What cons did we find?
This table could likely be improved by simplifying the assembly to some degree. While it isn’t exactly complicated, it does take a significant amount of time that could otherwise be spent playing. The only other thing that may be counted as something we disliked is the price. While it’s absolutely worth the cost, the high price point deters or prices out so many potential buyers, and everyone should be able to enjoy playing on this table.
The JOOLA Tour 1800 is a two-piece rollaway table that has an 18mm top and full regulation size, making it a robust option for both personal and public use.
The Tour 1800 from JOOLA is a great intermediate step to fill the gap between their 15mm starter tables and their 25mm competitive and high-end lines. It provides great value for those who are beginning to gain more experience and skill.
What makes it stand out?
We really like the modest weight of under 190 lbs, which makes it super-easy to fold up and relocate if needed. The Tour 1800 is also USATT approved, so it’s also an ideal table tennis table for environments like schools, churches, or community recreational halls. The setup is really simple and takes just 8 bolts and less than half an hour. For a foldable table, the Tour 1800 is built incredibly solidly and has amazing bounce for the price.
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
There were only a few things that we didn’t like about the Tour 1800, the first being the lack of color options that some other brands and lines have been able to provide. There is also a point where the wheel sizes were increased from 3-inch to 4-inch, changing the height of the whole table. While some other models include some gear, such as balls or paddles, the Tour 1800 does not.
The Cornilleau 700X is arguably one of the best outdoor ping pong tables, sporting lots of features and accessories that are normally found on much more expensive models.
Cornilleau has several lines of tables, and the 700X represents the pinnacle of their outdoor table line. There is also a Crossover line, but the Outdoor line improves upon them by having more robust outdoor construction.
What are our favorite features?
The tabletop is constructed from 8mm laminate specifically designed for use outdoors, and it has an anti-glare coating on it. The leg pads are 3D adjustable so that they can fit more varieties of terrain and uneven surfaces. We love that the Cornilleau 700X is less than two hundred pounds, so it’s quick to store and simple to get out when you want to play. The height and tension adjustments for the net are really handy.
What could be better?
We were a little disappointed to find that the colors available in some of Cornilleau’s other tables, like the 500 series, were not available for the 700. The color is not a detraction, but more options would have been nice. We also find the locations of the drink holders to be relatively inconvenient and would have liked to see them placed in a location accessible without a nearly across-the-table reach.
The Cornilleau 850 Wood ITTF Indoor is one of the best folding table tennis tables that has a full competition tabletop thickness, so you don’t have to make any sacrifices when practicing.
While Cornilleau has other tables with ITTF regulation thickness, the Cornilleau 850 Wood ITTF Indoor represents a refinement over designs like the 540 and 740 into a beautiful top-tier wood foldable.
Why did it make our list?
Between the elegance and the performance of the 850 Wood, there’s a lot to like. We really like the action that the SKILTOP spin-sensitive finish gives to our serves and returns. The solid wood legs give this table sound that is impressive for any table, let alone a foldable. The safety features and locking system make this a great table for competitive families, and the playback mode makes solo practice a breeze.
What is not ideal about it?
This table would have been much better, in our opinion, without the fixed net system. It is convenient to use, but it really cuts down on options when a replacement is needed. The table does not have ball or paddle holders either, something we found a little surprising. We also would have liked the table to be a bit simpler on the assembly, especially considering the significant weight adds to the project.
More features: ITTF-Approved, no assembly required, official table of the 2001-2011 U.S. Open & U.S. National Championships, legs are placed 400mm inward which complies with the ITTC ruling for wheelchair competitors
The Centrefold 25 is a quality table tennis table from former World Team Champion Sponsors Butterfly that has a full 1-inch competition tabletop thickness and rollaway portability.
The Centrefold 25 improves on all other Butterfly competition thickness tables, like the Octet, Europa, and even National League by widening the rail, giving it larger wheels, and smaller storage size.
Why is it special?
We loved that the table came fully assembled, particularly considering the weight of this powerhouse. Even though it is our pick for the best value competition table, it certainly doesn’t feel cheaply made at all, and we had our choice of a couple of colors. This table has full ITTF approval and is wheelchair-friendly as well. The performance and cost of this table make it a prime candidate for locations that will see intermediate or highly skilled players using it heavily for practice.
What are the flaws?
The first thing we noticed about the Centrefold 25 is that it is incredibly heavy, coming in at nearly 300 lbs. This makes it very sturdy, but also quite a hassle to move in some situations. Also, despite being a foldable table the Centrefold 25, unfortunately, does not have a playback mode, which is disappointing for those of us who can’t always raise an opponent when we want to practice.
The Stiga Expert VM is one of the thickest tables you can get for a reasonable price, which makes it one of the best portable ping pong tables on the market today.
A ping pong table like the Stiga Expert VM would be most at home in a full-time ping pong environment or somewhere similarly skilled players would be able to fully appreciate the physics of the thicker top.
What makes it stand out?
Since this table is so thick, most of the things we liked were related to its size. It is really robust, and thankfully it arrives in a pre-assembled condition. It does break down into two leaves, and each one has a pair of wheels strong enough to move it. It does have ITTF approval, and it’s a super option when you need a strong table without spending a down payment on a home.
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
We’ll just come out and say it. We do not like how this model breaks down, moves, or gets set up. It’s really cumbersome and awkward and should have been executed much better. It is incredibly heavy and it lacks a playback mode. It’s also missing paddle and ball holders. Finally, for a table like this, we would have really liked to have seen a warranty longer than a year.
The JOOLA Motion 18 is a surprisingly capable and robust mid-level table tennis table that features an 18mm tabletop thickness that is a step above entry-level performance.
The JOOLA Motion 18 improves upon the quality, design, and function of the Tour series by reducing the weight of the table and adding hollow corners for ball storage.
What are our favorite features?
Right off the bat, we were impressed that the JOOLA Motion 18 comes nearly fully assembled from the shipper, and from there it took only about 20 minutes to get finished and start playing. The automatically closing legs are a great feature that makes the two-piece, foldable table a cinch to close up and move. It has plenty of ball storage, as well as a playback mode and an anti-tilt feature.
What could be better?
We were actually pretty disappointed to see a table designed around manageable portability include storage for balls but not for paddles. This really puts a damper on the ease of transport in some situations. The weight of the table is relatively high for a tabletop that is not a competition or tournament thickness. Finally, for a table of this size, having 2-inch heels felt a bit inadequate, 3-inch would have been better.
The Butterfly Compact 16 is a fully pre-assembled table that is perfect for beginners or families just starting out, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
The modest bounce qualities of the Butterfly Compact 16 make it a great option for players or potential players who want Butterfly quality without getting a mid-level table immediately.
What makes it stand out?
We really liked that while the tabletop is 16mm, the table itself was only a little over 130 lbs. The Compact 16 certainly lives up to its name and creates a very small ping pong table that stores in less than three inches of thickness overall. For solo artists, it also has a playback mode. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that such a light and portable table had USATT approval.
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
While the table is light, it is not foldable, so in order to break it down, you will need to separate the two halves, fold the legs up, then attach the two halves together. The playback mode is also kind of a pain to set up since it cannot be activated by folding the table due to its design, so the table must be separated and then reattached in the playback position.
Another great table from Stiga, the Mini is a table built around portability, simple storage, and convenient play where space is at a premium.
The Stiga Mini would be the best ping pong table for smaller homes or apartments, where players would have more space limitations but don’t want to sacrifice too much.
What do we love it for?
We love how easy it is to collapse the Mini down into an easily moved or stored form. In a few seconds, it can be broken down to the size of a modest briefcase and can be put in a vehicle, closet, or even slid under a bed. The opposite is true as well, as the Mini can be open and ready for your serve in less than a minute.
What were we disappointed with?
We ended up not liking the change of going from thicker tabletops to one that was only 12mm, but when your options are limited, it’s still a good way to get your fun in. We feel like it could have been a bit more robust while still retaining the portability and footprint of a compact table. Also, for the size and price, a variety of color options like Stiga Pure Super Mini.
Now that you have perused our picks for the best ping pong tables, you might be thinking that it’s time for you to do a little browsing of your own. But with all of the options out there, it might seem a bit daunting. That’s why we’ve put together a buying guide for you to use as a reference during your own research. We’ve listed the important things to look at and consider when shopping for your first, or next, potential ping pong table.
Why Investing in a Ping Pong Table?
Investing in a table tennis table can be more affordable than many types of home cardio equipment, and much more fun. The social aspect of unplugging and talking while playing also makes it much easier to make the most of your table.
Playing ping pong can have substantial benefits for the body. These benefits can include boosts to social and psychological health, shown by studies
Trusted SourceTennis – health benefits - Better Health ChannelTennis can be played as a sport or as a recreational activity with friends and family. Either way, playing tennis is a good sport to maintain your health, fitness, strength and agility. It has been calculated that an hour-long game of singles tennis burns around 600 calories for men and 420 calories for women.
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
in Australia. The National Institute of Health also discusses the benefits
Trusted SourceThe Physiological Demands of Table Tennis: A ReviewAlthough table tennis has a tradition lasting more than 100 years, relatively little is known about players’ physiological requirements – especially during competition. In this review we discuss research studies that have led to our current understanding of how the body functions during table tennis training and competition and how this is altered by training. Match and practice analysis of the table tennis game indicates that during intense practice and competition it is predominantly the anaerobic alactic system that is called into play, while the endurance system is relied on to recovery the anaerobic stores used during such effort. It is thus important for coaches to keep in mind that, while the anaerobic alactic system is the most energetic system used during periods of exertion in a table tennis game, a strong capacity for endurance is what helps a player recover quicker for the following match and the next day of competition.
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
of the activity associated with ping pong.
When it comes to finding a ping pong table, there are several features that you should consider while shopping around. If you’re working with a limited floor plan, the Stiga Mini Table Black Edition may be a great choice for your space. For those that want a table that isn’t too heavy, the Butterfly Compact 16 would be manageable. Take your time to browse so you can find the perfect ping pong table for you.
Material
The material your table is constructed from can impact several things. Wood is often a sturdy and durable choice, but solid wood tends to be heavy. Fiberboard is a lightweight option, but it is susceptible to water damage and is damaged more easily.
Some tables can be classified as “indoor/outdoor”. These tables, while versatile, are often not meant to be stored outside for long periods, so bear that in mind if you think about getting one for the patio simply because it’s cheaper than a full outdoor table.
Size
One of the most important things to do before you purchase a ping pong table is to measure the space that you’re planning on putting it in. While a lot of stores may have return policies, returning it can be a pain, especially if you purchased it from an online retailer.
There are a variety of sizes available, from tiny Stiga tables like the Mini to full-size competition-approved tables. Most tables that are ITTF or USATT will be the regulation size and minimum thickness, and will also be wheelchair friendly.
Most quality tables will include a net system, but this is not a guarantee. Always check the list of included parts so you know whether or not you need to shop for additional pieces before you are able to use your new ping pong table.
Net systems will come in a few different styles. There are fixed nets, and nets that can be adjusted. Some adjustable nets can be adjusted for tension as well as height.
Adjustable nets are more common, and finding replacements is easier since there are more options, but fixed nets are less trouble to get set and in position.
Table top
The table top is probably the most important feature, aside from ensuring the table will fit in your space. The material and thickness of the table top contribute to the weight and portability of the table. If you’re looking to take your table on the go, a thicker table top, like on the Stiga Expert VM, will be able to stand up to travel.
The playing surface plays a role in how the ball moves when it makes contact. Most ping pong tables on the market feature wooden playing surfaces. These tops look nice and allow the ball to bounce perfectly, but they’re heavy and can be easily damaged by humidity and moisture. Aluminum play surfaces are becoming more common because they are weatherproof, making them a great choice for indoor and outdoor use.
Feet
The feet and legs of your table are going to affect how your table performs. If you are placing it outside or on an uneven surface, adjustable leveling feet are ideal. For those that need something that’s easy to store, the JOOLA Tour 1800 has auto-folding legs, and the feet have adjustable height levelers.
Weight
The size and type of your table are going to play a big role in just how heavy it is. Before you purchase a ping pong table, take into account how heavy of a table you can move on your own, how sturdy of a table you need, and whether or not you will have help moving the table.
Possible location
One of the great things about ping pong is it is a sport that can be played both inside and out. If you have small rooms but a decent-sized yard, putting your table outside may be your only option.
Alternatively, you may live somewhere with frequent rain, so an indoor setup is the best choice for your family.
Prices and warranty
Ping pong tables are available at a wide array of prices – from budget ones for 200 dollars (and even less) to pro-level at 1,500 and more. When you invest in expensive sporting equipment, covering it with a warranty is important. You should also be familiar with what that warranty covers. Some companies only cover repairs or replacements on issues with the manufacturing or quality control, while others cover all damages, as long as the table was being used according to manufacturers isn’t.
Table tennis tables are a great addition to your home. You’ll start by clearing an area that is at least 9 feet by five feet, plus space for the players to stand. Next, take your table and all of the parts out of the box and ensure you have all of the pieces. The instruction manual should have a list of each piece that should be included. Assembly should be pretty easy. Some tables have four separate legs that you attach individually, and others have T-shaped legs that slide into place. After the legs are installed, flip your table upright and install the net by sliding the metal sticks into their designated spot on the table.
In order for your table to allow you to perform at your best, keeping it clean and protected from the elements is crucial. A dirty ping pong table can become sticky, which impacts the ball’s ability to spin and bounce properly. If you don’t play table tennis daily, storing it when not in use will keep it in top shape. Find a place in your home that has no direct sun, is well ventilated, and does not have temperature swings. A finished basement, insulated sheds, and garages in moderate climates are great options.
One of the most important parts of ping pong maintenance is keeping it clean. Dirt, dust, grime, and stains all can impact the performance of the table. To ensure it is in proper working order, you should clean it regularly. Wiping it down with a clean, soft rag after each use is a good start. You should also wash it as needed. This can be done in a few steps. First, wipe the table with a dry sponge or cloth. Next, wash the surface gently with warm, soapy water. Wipe the table with clean water, then wash again. Follow this up by wiping down the legs of the table, as well as getting into any tight spots.
Our Verdict
So, there you have it, a breakdown of the ten top table tennis tables currently on the market and available. Depending on what you’re looking for in your table, your experience & skill level, and a few other factors, there should be something for every type of player and budget in our list.
If you have only just recently started playing, or have maybe considered starting to learn and play more consistently, you may be best served by an entry-level table that won’t cost you too much like JOOLA Tour 1800. If, however, you have been playing for a little while, you may want a mid-level table that will grow with you like the Killerspin MyT 415. You might even find that you’re ready for the exquisite RS Barcelona You and Me. No matter what your idea of the best ping pong table is, if you stick to our guide and remember what you need from your table, you should be well-equipped to find it.
References
1.
Tennis – health benefits - Better Health Channel
Tennis can be played as a sport or as a recreational activity with friends and family. Either way, playing tennis is a good sport to maintain your health, fitness, strength and agility. It has been calculated that an hour-long game of singles tennis burns around 600 calories for men and 420 calories for women.
The Physiological Demands of Table Tennis: A Review
Although table tennis has a tradition lasting more than 100 years, relatively little is known about players’ physiological requirements – especially during competition. In this review we discuss research studies that have led to our current understanding of how the body functions during table tennis training and competition and how this is altered by training. Match and practice analysis of the table tennis game indicates that during intense practice and competition it is predominantly the anaerobic alactic system that is called into play, while the endurance system is relied on to recovery the anaerobic stores used during such effort. It is thus important for coaches to keep in mind that, while the anaerobic alactic system is the most energetic system used during periods of exertion in a table tennis game, a strong capacity for endurance is what helps a player recover quicker for the following match and the next day of competition.
