The Best Ping Pong Tables
Ping pong is a game beloved by young and old thanks to its easy-to-learn and hard-to-master gameplay. Home table tennis sets have come a long way, with excellent finishes and construction that rivals Olympic quality tables. Some will obviously be superior to others, though, which is why we've made this list to help you determine which ping pong table is right for your home. There were a few criteria a table had to meet to play a winning game in our book: Is it easy to set up and put away? Does the ball bounce reliably on the table's surface? Will it be able to weather lots of games for years to come? We found a slew of tables that outright paddled our expectations. The GoSports Mid-Size table made the best bargain for the average consumer, with good construction and everything you need to get started playing right away. On the other hand, Stiga's Advantage table is the one you'll want to pick up to get as close to a professional game as possible. There's a great ping pong table for your den or backyard waiting on this list, so ready your racket and read on.
GoSports Mid-Size Table Tennis Game Set
A great way to start
This ping pong table delivers the total package, whether you’re playing casually or having a serious competition. Aluminum framing keeps the table simultaneously sturdy and compactable, and it even features handles for easy portability. It also comes supplied with four balls to get you started, and a pair of well-crafted wooden paddles. When it comes to ping pong tables you can bring anywhere and play with anyone, this is as good as it gets.
Pros
- It provides the same level of quality as a tournament table without the additional weight.
- We appreciate that it comes with laminated instructions, making them easy to read and store without worry.
- This table has locks for folding, keeping it secure when it’s stowed away.
Cons
- The ball can spin or stop unpredictably when hitting the aluminum table edges.
Joola Inside
Fold or hold
When it comes to folding tables, no design compares to this choice from Joola. A sophisticated yet easy-to-understand system of clamps and casters allows you to securely set up and break down this table in a matter of minutes. It’s incredibly satisfying to play on as well, thanks to tournament-quality table construction that ensures a smooth game. You can trust this ping pong table to provide a great experience that you can take almost anywhere.
Pros
- The engineered wood construction makes this a truly professional-quality table that sells at a retail rate.
- We love the deep blue hue of the table’s surface—and appreciate that it doesn’t interfere with the ball’s bounce, either.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with instructions, so your first-time setup might be a bit of a hassle.
Joola Nova
Rain or shine
Another winner from Joola, this ping pong table ensures you don’t have to let a rainy day ruin your game. A waterproof net and robustly constructed surface mean this table will be ready to play on after a few simple wipes from a towel. And since it’s Joola, you can rely on a sturdy, straightforward setup and tournament-quality construction. Whatever the weather may be, this ping pong table is a surefire choice for reliable outdoor fun.
Pros
- The packaging is very thorough, so no need to worry about it becoming damaged during delivery or upon getting it out of the box.
- The aluminum construction means it’s lightweight once put together, yet stays in place during games.
- Weatherproof means temperature-proof as well: the surface won’t warp even if it’s blisteringly hot outside.
Cons
- The table comes in two parts and can dip slightly where they connect between the net.
Stiga Advantage Professional Table
The top tier
Many tables will claim high quality, but Stiga truly puts the “professional” in “professional grade ping pong table.” Alloy steel construction, a thick table surface, and a 72-inch clamp-style net bring you as close to the tournament scene as you can find at a retail price. It comes out of the box 95% assembled as well, so you can start experiencing pro-quality table tennis within minutes. For serious players and those who won’t settle for less, this ping pong table is a must.
Pros
- The net clamps don’t just keep the net secure, they make it easier to set up and put away too.
- We love how the table feels once assembled: heavy and sturdy, yet easy to move around as needed.
- It comes in a surprisingly versatile variety of colors and shades.
Cons
- It can be difficult to assemble by yourself if you aren’t particularly strong.
Stiga Space Saver
Mini but mighty
If a miniature ping pong table is what you’re after, look no further than the Space Saver from Stiga. This is the rare table that requires no assembly whatsoever—simply unpack, unfold, and start playing. And since it’s Stiga, you can rely on a well-made surface and a frame that stays in place during play. If you are a casual player, need a table for a small space, or simply don’t want to spend time putting it together, this ping pong table is the perfect choice.
Pros
- The size and ease of the setup make this the perfect table for introducing kids to ping pong.
- It stays level even on uneven surfaces, which is no mean feat for a table this small.
- We love the professional paint job, giving it a pro look on an amateur budget.
Cons
- Its small size means seasoned players may not have the room to do some of the techniques that they’re used to.
Frequently Asked Questions
When a ping pong table is described as “tournament quality,” does that mean it’s for experts only?
“Tournament” or “professional” quality refers only to the quality of the materials and the dimensions of the table, not the difficulty of using them. It’s mainly a way for the manufacturer to let you know that everyone from casual fans to dedicated table tennis players will be able to have a good game on their table.
Why should I consider getting new balls or paddles to go with my new ping pong table?
A warped ball or a paddle that’s lost its grip will affect the quality of your game. If it’s been a long time since you’ve broken out the table tennis set, playing with some new gear will help you enjoy it to the fullest. Many of the options on our list come with a set of balls and paddles already, though you may want to upgrade as your skills improve.
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