Table Tennis Table: All About the Basics of a Game of Ping Pong

A table tennis table is a specially designed surface on legs divided into two halves by a net, and is used to play the game of table tennis, or ping pong, where players hit small balls over the net using paddles.

What are the characteristics of a table tennis table, what types are there and what do you pay attention to when purchasing a table tennis table?

In this article you can read everything about table tennis tables.

What is Table Tennis?

Table tennis, also called ping pong, is a sport in which two or four players play a plastic ball with a bat beating back and forth over a net stretched over a table.

The idea is that you hit the ball over the net into your opponent's half of the table, in such a way that he/she cannot (correctly) hit the ball back.

For most people, table tennis is a relaxing hobby, while for the pros it is a real sport that requires physical and mental preparation.

Read learn more about the rules of a game of table tennis in my comprehensive guide

What is a table tennis table?

A table tennis table is a rectangular table used for playing table tennis, a sport in which players hit small light balls back and forth across a table with flat rackets.

A standard table tennis table has a smooth surface divided into two equal halves by a net.

Table tennis tables are usually made of wood and have a coating of green or blue paint.

There are also table tennis tables that are specially designed for outdoor use and are made of materials that can withstand the elements.

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Table tennis is a popular recreational and competitive sport around the world and is played by people of all ages and skill levels.

Standard table tennis table sizes and color

A table tennis table normally has standard dimensions, with a length of 2,74 meters, a width of 1,52 meters and a height of 76 cm.

The color of the tabletop is often dark (green, grey, black or blue) and matte.

We mainly see the blue table top in official matches, because you can clearly distinguish a white ball from the blue background.

For a recreational player, the color of the playing surface will have less influence on the playing experience, and the choice is more based on personal preference.

Sometimes you even have the option to have your table tennis table personalized. 

Looking for a good table tennis table? Find the best table tennis tables here, from beginner to pro

The playing surface and the net

The playing surface of a table tennis table is divided into two equal halves and is equipped with a net that is 15,25 cm high.

The net is stretched horizontally exactly in the middle of the length of the table tennis table.

The net must be taut and the overlap must also be 15,25 cm. This overlap thus forms a conceivable square. 

Bounce height

Table tennis tables are designed in such a way that the ball has a bounce height between 23 cm and 25 cm.

This means: if you drop a celluloid ball from, for example, a height of 30 cm, the ball will bounce to a height between 23 cm and 25 cm.

The bounce height of the ball depends on the thickness of the tabletop.

For tables with a chipboard or resin board playing field, the thicker the panel, the better the bounce of the ball. 

The frame and legs

The legs of a table tennis table provide sturdiness. The wider the diameter of the legs, the more stable the table.

In addition: the wider the foot, the less chance there is that it sinks into the ground. 

What types of table tennis tables are there?

You can play table tennis at various locations.

These can be locations indoors – for example at home, at the office or in a public space – or outdoors (in the garden or again in a location where many people come).

That is why special table tennis tables have been designed for both indoor and outdoor use. There are also professional competition tables.

Below you can read all about the different types of table tennis tables. 

Indoor table tennis tables

Indoor table tennis tables are intended for indoor use and are made of chipboard.

Because these tables are for indoor use, they cannot withstand moisture.

If you put it in a shed or outside - with or without a cover - this can lead to damage to the table.

If you want a table that is intended to withstand external influences, then it is better to take an outdoor table tennis table.

Indoor tables are generally cheaper than the other models because they are not made of moisture-resistant materials.

The most important properties that an indoor table must meet are a good bounce, opening and folding the table must be easy and the table must also be stable.

So indoor tables are often made of chipboard, which not only improves the quality of the table, but also increases the speed of the bounce.

The thicker the tabletop and the edge strip, the better the bounce. 

Outdoor table tennis tables

Outdoor models are specially made for outside or in the shed.

The materials of these tables are water resistant and can withstand more than indoor tables.

The outdoor models are mainly made of stainless steel and are resistant to weather conditions.

You can also get outdoor tables made of concrete.

In addition, the tabletop of the outdoor table has a top layer that is not only water-resistant, but also durable.

Moisture and wind should not be a problem for these tables. Outdoor tables can also be used perfectly indoors.

The most important properties of an outdoor table are weather resistance, that they are generally easy to move, transport and store, and that they have a lot of stability. 

ITTF tables

ITTF is the International Table Tennis Federation.

If you want to purchase a competition table, you must take one that meets the competition requirements of the ITTF. 

Tables made of concrete or steel are the strongest, which is why we mainly see them at outdoor locations.

However, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) only approves wooden tables for competitions. 

Advantages of buying a table tennis table

There are many reasons to purchase a table tennis table. It can be very welcome, especially for companies.

After lunch, many people suffer from a dip. When you're at work, you could use a pick-me-up.

You can of course go for a nice strong espresso, but how about a game of table tennis?

Below you can read why you should buy a table tennis table. 

It's good for the waistline

Table tennis not intensive? Then you are wrong!

During a game of table tennis you burn more calories than you think.

If you were to risk it for an hour, you could burn 323 kcal (assuming someone with a body weight of 70 kg).

An average game among amateurs lasts about 20 minutes, so that means you burn more than 100 kilocalories.

If you're not a fan of jogging, this might just be the perfect alternative.

It increases your focus

A table tennis table is welcome in the workplace because it can help people to focus.

If you can play table tennis with your colleagues in between, perhaps during the break, you actively give your brain a moment of rest.

After playing table tennis you will be able to focus on your tasks fresh and with your full attention.

Plus, it's just an excellent workout for your brain. It is a game where you have to deal with quick back-and-forth movements.

This will increase blood flow to the brain, which can then improve your cognitive function.

From research Table tennis has been shown to improve your memory, reaction time and problem solving skills. 

Table tennis is not seasonal

Whether it's raining outside or the weather is nice: you can generally play table tennis at any time!

Especially if you buy one for your home, you can play a game whenever you want. 

For young and old

Since table tennis does not require heavy physical exertion, it can be played by young and old.

It is the ideal way to stay fit without putting too much strain on your body.

It is very low profile, anyone can participate and most people have played table tennis at some point.

Table tennis is gentle on your body and you don't need sportswear for it!

It is very nice

Table tennis is especially fun! Play against your friends or colleagues and make it a competition.

Or just play table tennis to improve your skills and beat all your opponents!

Table tennis makes you happy and makes you feel good. 

It improves your coordination 

Table tennis requires fast reflexes as well as well-trained hand-eye coordination. The more you practice, the better your general coordination will develop.

This is especially important for older adults who experience problems with their coordination due to their age. 

Stress relief

Besides being good for your brain, it is also a way to lower your stress levels.

Since it's a fast-paced game, it can take your mind off things that stress you out while you focus on hitting the ball back and forth.

So you can almost see table tennis as a form of therapy. 

Social activity

Table tennis is the perfect way to socialize and meet new people. Playing with others can improve your social skills.

What should you pay attention to when purchasing a table tennis table?

If you are looking for a table tennis table, you should take a number of things into account.

Below are the most important features to look out for when purchasing a table tennis table. 

Security system

Nowadays there are table tennis tables equipped with a Push'n'Lock system and others with a DSI system.

The DSI system is currently the best safety system with up to 16 locking points. 

Foldable

There are folding and non-folding table tennis tables.

It is useful to determine for yourself whether a folding table tennis table can be useful, so that you can also store it from time to time.

The table will also take up less space.

Handy if you don't have a lot of space available for a table tennis table, but would still like to have one. 

In general, most table tennis tables are foldable. Besides being useful for storage, folding tables can also be set up again in no time.

The better the quality of the table, the stronger the folding system and the easier it is to fold and unfold the table.

The tables that are not foldable are often the robust outdoor models, such as concrete and steel tables. These are extra sturdy and strong.

Because you cannot fold these models, you cannot use a 'self-train stand'.

This is the position where the table is half unfolded, against a wall, so that you can also play individually. The ball will then bounce against the wall.

Handy if you don't have an opponent for a while or if you just want to improve your skills!

Corner protectors

Especially if you have children, or if the table tennis table is placed in a place where children also come, it is wise to take one with corner protectors.

This will provide maximum security. 

Remmen

There are table tennis tables with wheels that are equipped with brakes.

These brakes provide extra stability during play and also more safety when the table is stored.

ball dispenser

If a table tennis table has a ball dispenser, it will be located on the underside of the table top, or else on the side of the table.

It can certainly be an added value, because a ball dispenser ensures that you always have a ball ready for the next serve. 

You can also buy a ball machine separately: I have reviewed the best table tennis balls robots here for optimal training

Transport handle

A transport handle makes it easier to roll the table over an obstacle - for example, up the stairs or over an uneven surface.

In case you need to move the table more often, we recommend going for one with large or double wheels that also have a large diameter. 

Bat holders

Bat holders can be useful for storing your bats and balls. These holders are usually located on the side of the table.

Read here everything about the quality of table tennis bats and which ones you can buy best

Accessories

Table tennis tables are generally supplied without accessories.

In order to play table tennis, you need at least two bats and a ball in addition to a table.

It's always handy to have purchase a set of extra balls in case you lose a ball or one breaks.

Beginners (or defensive players) are advised to use paddles with a speed rating of 60 or less.

These are made of softer rubber and you have better control over the ball.

In case you are more of an offensive and smart player, try a speed rating of 80 or more.

These paddles may give less control, but they do provide more speed. 

Adjustable net

There are nets that are adjustable in height and tension. There are also tables with a folding net. 

Adjustable legs

Some table tennis tables have adjustable legs, so you can adjust the height and make sure the playing surface is always perfectly level.

This can be useful if you are dealing with an uneven surface. Of course you want to make sure that your table is always stable and that the tabletop is also straight.

This way you can have optimal fun and the game is always fair. 

Size

Table tennis is a game that is played by young and old.

Even children like to play. Table tennis also promotes motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

However, a standard table tennis table is usually a bit too big for children, which is why there are also mini table tennis tables.

Standard table tennis tables are suitable for players with an age of 10 years and older. 

Pricing

More expensive table tennis tables often have a thicker table top which ensures a better rebound.

These tables are also generally equipped with more stable legs, have a heavier chassis and wider wheels.

The net and legs will also provide more options when it comes to adjusting them.

Make your own table tennis table?

It is generally not recommended to make a table tennis table yourself.

It is quite difficult to maintain the correct dimensions and also to take into account the bounce height.

Even if you are used to playing table tennis on a real table, it will feel uncomfortable on a homemade table tennis table.

But of course this applies more to the professionals, and those who want to practice the sport at a high level. 

Moreover, you have so much choice nowadays, and you can therefore possibly go for a cheaper model instead of getting started yourself.

The costs of making a table tennis table yourself (purchasing wood, paint, a net, plus balls and bat) do not always outweigh the price you pay for a cheap table tennis table. 

Do you want to try it anyway? Then we won't stop you!

We can imagine it can be a nice challenge, and maybe you're a real DIY'er.

You may want to try making a table tennis table for your kids. You can!

If you're a bit handy, you should be able to do it. Below you can read what you need to make your own table tennis table. 

Make your own table tennis table: step by step

We'll tell you exactly how to build a wooden table tennis table yourself, starting with the supplies. 

Requirements

Making a table tennis table yourself does not have to be very complicated. You can make it as difficult as you want.

It kind of depends on what you want to do: do you want to make one that conforms to the official measurements (which can be a bit tricky) or don't mind if the table is slightly skewed?

It's entirely up to you.

Below you can read what you generally need to make a table.

• MDF boards that are large enough for a playing surface
• Beams of wood to make the frame (a good idea would be 6 beams in width and two longer beams for length) 
• Robust wooden legs (six or eight pieces)
• The right tools (a saw, sandpaper, screwdriver, wood glue, screws, spirit level, etc.)
• Table tennis net (but you can also use a wooden board as a 'net')
• Paint to add color to the table after building it

If you want to make a table tennis table with the official dimensions, you should of course take that into account.

The ITTF has established the following official dimensions: 152,5 cm wide, 274 cm long and 76 cm high.

Even the net must have a certain size, namely 15,25 centimeters high. So you have to be very precise!

Roadmap

Step 1: The Frame

If you are going to make the table tennis table completely from scratch, you have to start with the frame. This will give stability to your table and also firmness.

The frame should be elongated so that you can mount the playing surface on it.

It is recommended to mount a number of beams in the middle for more support. 

Step 2: Add the legs

Now it is important to add at least six thick legs to the frame.

If you only have a few thin beams, make eight of them. You get it: the sturdier the table, the better.

Step 3: The Playing Surface

The frame should now be completely turned over, resting on the legs.

When you feel you have built a sturdy table, you can continue adding the MDF plates.

You can fix this with wood glue, or alternatively with screws. Or both! 

Step 4: Leveling the table

It is now important that you check whether the table is completely level. If not, you will have to make some adjustments here and there.

A crooked table is not very handy and you cannot play fair games of table tennis with it!

So try to build the table as straight as possible. If your table is purely for the entertainment of the kids, it does not have to be exactly precise.

Step 5: Finishing

You can choose to sand the table and leave it at that. But maybe you prefer to provide the table with a layer of paint, or opt for foil. 

Step 6: The Net

Are you happy with your table? Did it work out well?

Then the last step is to attach the net. It must be mounted in the middle.

In addition to a net, you can also go for a wooden board. 

How do you position a table tennis table?

When a table is not stable or simply not positioned properly, it can lead to frustrations during play.

Take the following steps to position the table in the best possible way and increase your playing pleasure:

1. Only use the table on flat surfaces. Find a place with a flat surface and also where you have enough room to move. 
2. After unfolding the table, you can adjust the table tops via the adjustable legs - if the table has this option. The two tabletops should be perpendicular to the floor and fit together properly. 
3. Now you can fix the tops together with the locking points, so that the table is stable and does not move. Outdoor tables are often equipped with an automatic locking system. When you hear a 'click' it means the blades are locked. 
4. You can also lock the wheels for more stability. 

How can you maintain a table tennis table?

Mainly outdoor table tennis tables sometimes have a hard time.

To enjoy the table for as long as possible, it is important to keep it clean.

If you want to use cleaning products, do not choose aggressive variants. Aggressive products can damage the paint. 

It is also important to first remove the net before cleaning the tops. Mix some water and soap in a bucket.

Take a sponge (avoid a scouring pad) or cloth and clean the blades. Finally, rinse the leaves with water and replace the net. 

In addition to maintenance, it is also wise to purchase a protective cover so that your table is always protected during storage or when it is not used.

Not only will it protect against the rain, but it will also protect against discoloration from the sun. 

Conclusion

Whether for professional competition, recreational use or home use, the table tennis table offers a fun and challenging way to play and improve in this popular sport.

Over the years this table has helped many people develop their skills and will continue to serve as an important tool for table tennis enthusiasts around the world.

Seriously getting started with your table tennis table? Then check out these top 5 table tennis shoes for optimal maneuverability

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.