Essential Hints and tips when Buying a Table Tennis Table

Buying a Table Tennis Table

If you have recently become interested in playing table tennis, or maybe you want to take your game to the next level, this article is for you, we are talking about what to look for when buying a Table Tennis Table.

Remember they want your cash!

All manufacturers are trying to convince you that their product is the best for you! So when buying a table tennis table you must get it clear in your mind exactly what you need from a new table. Are you playing with a few mates in the garage after school, or can you see yourself as the next Olympic Champion, because in this day and age not many people have got money to burn right!

Buying a Table Tennis Table for the first time

If it is your families first table tennis table I would suggest looking at the cheaper end tables. Lets face it young families tend to give a table a hard time when learning, so it makes sense to buy sensibly at first, and later upgrade if somebody shows real flare and commitment to the sport.

Permanent Vs Fold Flat Table Tennis Tables

Unless you are absolutely sure you will want to leave your table permanently set-up I would strongly suggest you purchase a Folding Table Tennis Table, they should be very easy to set-up and fold away. Always check to see if it can be operated by one person? Is the table fitted with rollers so it’s easy to move? Roller tables should also be fitted with brakes to stop the table moving around during play.
To be honest even if you decide that the table can be permanently set-up, a foldaway table is still a very good idea, as circumstances can change, maybe a new addition to the family needs the room or you want to move house and no longer have the space. These are all things to consider when buying a table tennis table for the first time.

Does Table Thickness Matter When buying a table tennis table

Top flight tables are normally 25mm (1 inch) thick and without a doubt produce a great bounce, however these are the same tables used at top competitions and are expensive. I have found that the play on modern 19mm (0.75 inches) tables is excellent and well worth considering. Most top players will not be afraid to admit that their first, or second for that matter, table was not full spec competition standard. So I would recommend looking for a 19mm thick top and buying a table tennis table from a good manufacturer, unless you can find a thicker top for a great price.

Once you get to a good competition standard you will be well into the sport by now, and investing in a table of the same standard that you are going to use in tournaments will make perfect sense.

Don’t just focus on the Top

Make sure that the table you buy is of a good quality all round paying particular attention to the support legs. A good feature built into a lot of tables is leg levellers, these can be screwed in or out to level your table, this will be pretty essential if you own an older house like me!  This is essential if you plan on playing outdoor table tennis. Remember a Table Tennis Table top should be set at 76cm from the floor. Overall quality will be even more important if you have kids as they may really test out your new table with some serious use.

Check for Warping

This is really important if you are considering buying a second hand bargain. You need to get down to table level and look along the surface both along and diagonally to check that the surface is perfectly flat. This shouldn’t really be a significant problem on a new table but worth a check all the same.

Net Fittings

Check that the fittings that attach the net to the table are good quality and strong, paying particular attention to the clamp areas. Will the clamps damage the table? It’s not difficult to engineer this but unfortunately some manufacturers may overlook this on ground of cost.

Finish is Important

Look for a good smooth and even finish on the playing area. Look for any rough edges on the top and sides. Check that the edges are nicely finished and are rounded so you won’t get injured during spirited play. Don’t forget to check the bounce, a good table will allow a standard table tennis ball to bounce 23cm when dropped from 30cm – so take a ruler with you.

Buying a Table Tennis Table Summary

All these little things seem insignificant but when buying a table tennis table all these small details taken as a whole add up to a quality product worthy of your dollars! Enjoy your Table Tennis Table.