So you’re looking into buying a table tennis table. Congratulations, I’m sure it is a decision you won’t regret and something that will continue to bring you and your family and friends hours of fun for many years to come. However there are a number of things that you should consider before you make your purchase. This article will cover the main factors you should consider when looking at which table tennis table you should buy:
Indoor or Outdoor?
Table tennis tables are typically divided into indoor and outdoor varieties and besides the obvious there are some subtle differences between the two types. Outdoor tables are generally built from materials which will not warp or fade due to being exposed to the elements. This is important if the table will be left outside and not put away in a shed or garage when not in use. However there is a trade-off and this is that the playing surface of an outdoor tennis table is not generally not as good as that of an indoor tennis table at a similar price point. You can still use your indoor table tennis table outdoors on fine days, just remember to bring it back inside and don’t leave it out when it’s raining on in direct sunlight for too long.
Types of Indoor Table Tennis Table
The first option you could consider is a table top conversion kit. This will transform any large table or a pool table into a surface suitable for playing table tennis. Add a net, which generally come included, and you’re good to go. These conversion kits will normally fold in half when you want to store them away and are good for the occasional player or space conscious. However the quality of the conversion kit can vary dramatically, form very poor in the case of the cheapest units, to bottom middle range, when compared against the full range of tennis tables available. This is due to the table surface thickness and the fact that all you’re really doing is putting a fancy board on top of a regular table.
Mini table tennis tables are also available in a variety of sizes. These can be great for kids learning the sport as the angle of the table can be adjusted so that the middle (where the net is placed) is lower that then two ends. This will result in a slower game and allow rallies to be longer. This setting also compensates for the table’s small size. Mini table tennis tables are also available in novelty table top sizes and are even available as hard-topped inflatable or sponge floating tables suitable for swimming pools. However, as with the conversion tops, these types of table will only allow you to progress so far with the sport, and if you’re serious about raising your skill level then a full sized table tennis table is the way to go.