Top 7 Best Ping Pong Tables of 2018: These Reviews Might Surprise You!

by

  • 5 stars
  • 19mm
    Table Top Thickness
  • 108" x 60" x 30" Regulation Size
  • Leg Levelers
  • Playback Feature
  • Color: Black
  • *225 Pounds*
  • Accessories Included

    ✓66" Net & Post Set

  • 5 stars
  • 15mm
    Table Top Thickness
  • 108" x 60" x 30" Regulation Size
  • Leg Levelers
  • Playback Feature
  • Color: Blue
  • *155 Pounds*
  • Accessories Included

    ✓4 Corner Ball Holders

    ✓2 Magnetic Abacus Scorekeepers

    ✓66" Screw on Net

  • 4.5 stars
  • 15mm
    Table Top Thickness
  • 108" x 60" x 30" Regulation Size
  • Leg Levelers
  • Playback Feature
  • Color: Blue
  • *198 Pounds*
  • Accessories Included

    ✓66" Clamp on Net

  • 4.5 stars
  • 16mm
    Table Top Thickness
  • 108" x 60" x 30" Regulation Size
  • Leg Levelers
  • Playback Feature
  • Color: Slate Blue
  • *190 Pounds*
  • Accessories Included

    ✓72" Net, Clamp & Post Set

  • 4 stars
  • 16mm
    Table Top Thickness
  • 108" x 60" x 30" Regulation Size
  • Leg Levelers
  • Playback Feature
  • Color: Blue
  • *137 Pounds*
  • Accessories Included

    ✓66" Clamp on Net

Looking for the absolute best ping pong table for your family playtime? Something durable that looks good and most importantly – is within budget? Look no further. We’ve compiled the best of the best in every price point in our list below. Here you’ll find out what people who own these models think about them and whether they’d buy it again as well as our personal take on the value of each.

Note: This article covers INDOOR models only. If you’re looking for the best OUTDOOR table tennis tables just for use outside, check our article here. While outdoor models are generally more expensive, they’re specifically designed to withstand the elements outside. If you’re playing indoors, you don’t need all those extras.

That said, here are our picks for the Top 7 Best Ping Pong Tables of 2018. Let’s play table tennis!

#1. Stiga InstaPlay

The Stiga InstaPlay is a marvel in that it assembles so quickly. In fact, no assembly is required. The construction is sturdy with a ¾” thick table top with silk screened striping. The top is sanded and UV filled which creates a smooth and level playing surface.

The legs are 2” made of heavy gauge steel for a solid base with 3” ball bearing locking wheels. The wheels let the table roll smoothly so it’s easy to transport. Additionally, it comes with 2” steel aprons and corner protectors which provide an even bounce across the whole top of the table. The corner protectors prevent snags and scratches.

Video Review

t

Quick Stats

  • Dimensions: 108″ x 60″ x 30″
  • Weight: 225 pounds
  • Top: ¾”
  • Color: Black
  • Legs: 2”
  • Wheels: 3” with locks
  • Aprons: 2” steel
  • Included: 66” net and post set
P

Pros

  • Thick table top
  • Comes assembled
  • Good bounce
  • Small footprint for storage

Cons

One of the few concerns about this table is that the top of the net is elastic instead of rope. While players in their reviews say it still seems sturdy, they wonder how it will hold up over time.

How is it held together?

The two halves of the table are held together with “L” shaped brackets at each corner. The net brackets attach to these. Both sides of the table are held together securely by this design.

Can it be used outside?

You can use this table outside, but it’s not recommended to keep it outdoors for any length of time. Outdoor humidity can make the table warp, and the paint could even bubble over time.

Final Verdict

The Stiga Instaplay is a hearty, sturdily built table with a nice thick top and a good even bounce across its entire surface area. The parts are solid, and it won’t go anywhere during game play. Additionally, the setup is a breeze. It’s both easy to put up and take down and is great for either serious practice or family fun. Overall, it’s our top pick for all these reasons and more. If you don’t want to go to the store and haul one home, we found the best options and delivery deals at Amazon.

#2. Joola Rally TL 300

The Joola Rally is another great option from this popular brand. It has a 15mm playing surface painted in charcoal and a 30x30mm painted undercarriage. It’s a standard regulation size and comes in two halves for easy storage. It also comes with corner ball holders that each hold up to 40mm balls as well as two abacus scorekeepers that are held to the table with magnets.

While at first glance this table may seem the same as the Joola 15, there are just a few differences in one vs the other. The Joola 15 doesn’t come with the extra accessories, it’s blue instead of black and most importantly, the 15 model has a clamp-on net, whereas this one needs to be screwed on. Users say both models are stable in spite of this difference.

Video Review

t

Quick Stats

  • Dimensions: 108” x 60” x 30”
  • Surface: 15mm MDF
  • Height Positions: 3
  • Leg levelers
  • Included: 4 Joola patented corner ball holders, 2 magnetic abacus scorekeepers, matching net set
P

Pros

  • Assembles quickly
  • Compact storage
  • Solidly built
  • Corner ball holders included

Cons

It turns out the biggest complaints about this table tennis table aren’t about the actual table at all but about the accessories. Users say the magnetic scorers that come in the package are on the cheap side, meaning the magnets that hold it to the table aren’t very strong. If this is important to you, you could always buy some stronger magnets to hold it on. However, since it’s just a convenient accessory, most users aren’t bothered by this.

Good for solo play?

Yes, the Joola Rally TL 300 can easily be converted for solo play. Since the table comes in two separate halves, you can leave one half vertical and it acts like a single player table.

How easy is assembly?

This table easily assembles in about 20 minutes. You can do it by yourself, but it’s recommended to have two people since the parts are quite heavy.

Rally vs Joola 15?

The only real differences here are that the Joola 15 doesn’t come with ball holders on the corners. Also, the 15 has a clamp on net, whereas the Rally has a screw-on type net.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a regulation size table that comes close to a professional version, the Joola Rally TL 300 is a great choice. It comes with some neat accessories and is easy to both move around and store. It has three positions for height, leg levelers (a must because few floors are completely even) and comes with a place to store your balls and a way to keep score. Overall, it’s a really good value for the money and is one of the best budget indoor ping pong tables on the market today. If you’re interested in buying one, we found great prices online at Amazon.com, which is great because they’ll deliver it for you too.

#3. Joola Tour 1500

The Joola Tour 1500 is another quality game table by this popular manufacturer. It’s affordable, sturdy and regulation size. One of the best things about it is the pre-assembly, which makes set up a snap. It  also boasts dual locking devices so it stays put during play and comes with four wheels for easy mobility and storage. You’ll also find adjustable height levers so you can set it where you need.

Video Review

t

Quick Stats

  • Surface: 15mm wood composite
  • Dimensions: 108” x 60” x 30”
  • Weight: 198 pounds
  • Color: Blue
  • Apron: 1.5” resin
  • Legs: 1.5” diameter
P

Pros

  • Easy to store and move
  • Good quality surface
  • Good quality net that’s easy to attach
  • Good value for the price

Cons

While it makes this table extra sturdy, it does weigh more than the others on our list. This only will really matter to you if you have to lift it anywhere. It does have wheels, but if you’re carrying it up or down stairs, you’re in for some work.

Difference vs Joola 15?

The only real difference here is the weight of the table. The Joola is about 160 pounds, while this one is closer to 200 pounds.

Is it good for a single player?

Definitely. You can keep one half of the table vertical for single player practice.

Final Verdict

The Joola Tour 1500 is another good option for home use. It comes pre-assembled, which makes set up a snap. Dual locking devices help it stay put even if you knock into it during game play, and the quad wheels make it extra easy to roll around and store. The wheels are especially helpful since this table is really heavy. It’s highly recommended only if you plan to leave it set up or your storage location is close by, meaning you don’t need to drag it up and down stairs. If you buy this online (with deliver of course), Amazon has a great sale going on. Hurry though because the price may go up soon!

#4. Stiga Advantage

The Stiga Advantage table tennis table is a competition grade indoor ping pong table that’s perfect for home, office or game room. It comes with what’s called a 10 minute QuickPlay design which just means it comes 95% assembled. This makes setup really fast and easy.

Storage is a breeze since it comes in two separate halves with three-inch locking casters so you can roll it from room to room. The 5/8” table top has multiple finish coats with silk screen striping for the best durability. The 72” tournament grade net attaches and removes easily with clamps and posts. Overall, this one gets 5/5 stars across the board in user reviews.

Video Review

t

Quick Stats

  • Color: Slate blue
  • 16mm Surface
  • Included: 72” clamp net/post set
  • 10 minute setup, arrives 95% assembled
  • Warranty: 90 Day limited
P

Pros

  • Assembles FAST
  • Solid quality playing surface
  • Easy to break down for storage

Cons

One of the only complaints we found for this ping pong table is that it’s easy to see hand prints on the finish. While this won’t affect the playing surface, it can make it look messy over time if you don’t keep it wiped off after use.

How does it connect?

Like many of the best indoor ping pong tables, the Stiga Advantage comes in two separate halves connected by the net bracket. This makes it easy to set up and even easier to break down for storage.

Good for solo play?

Like with most of the other tables on our list, you can align one of the halves vertically to play by yourself or practice.

How big is it?

Play position: 60” x 108” x 30”

Solo playback dimensions: 60” x 66” x 64″

Storage: 60” x 28” x 64”

What's included?

This particular model comes with the net but no paddles or balls.

How are the bounce levels?

According to user reviews from players who have purchased and use this table regularly, the ball bounce is very even throughout the entire table surface. To ensure the best bounce, make sure you level the legs prior to play.

Can I store it outside?

Like all indoor tables, this one is not meant for use or storage outside. It’s fine to store it in a garage or basement that has climate control, but if it doesn’t, the humidity can warp the table.

Final Verdict

The Stiga Advantage is a great competition-grade table tennis table for home. This one is recommended for serious players since it comes with a nice thick tabletop, a full 72″ tournament-grade net and the correct regulation dimensions in length, width and height. We love this table – mostly because it gets a full 5/5 stars in user reviews, and that’s extremely rare. If you have your eye on one of these, check the prices at Amazon.Their sales usually beat any price you’ll find online or even locally, and you don’t have to carry it home.

#5. Joola 15

The Joola 15 inside table tennis table is without a doubt one of the best for the price. While it doesn’t come with balls and rackets, it is a high quality basic piece. It arrives and stores in two halves which are held together by the net clamps during game play. Additionally, it has the option of leaving one half vertical for solo play.

The construction is regulation size with a 15mm wood composite surface so there is a consistent ball bounce. The locking casters and dual locking devices also make it easy to move around, store and make it very stable for game play.

Video Assembly

t

Quick Stats

  • Surface: 16mm wood composite
  • Dimensions: 108” x 60” x 30”
  • Color: Blue
  • Positions: 3
  • Legs: 1.5” diameter
  • Height levelers
  • Apron: 30x20mm
  • Legs: 30x30mm
  • Levelers: 1.25”
  • Wheels: 3”
  • Net: Quick Assembly Clamp
  • Assembly Time: 10-20 min
  • Included: Quick Assembly Clamp Net
  • Warranty: 1 year
P

Pros

  • Durable construction
  • Good table bound
  • Easy assembly
  • Easy to store

Cons

The only thing to be aware of with this table is that it comes in two separate pieces, and the two sides are only held together by the net clamps. This isn’t a concern for most players, as the table seems very stable and the halves don’t come apart. However, if you plan on being very rough with your ping pong table or moving it around a lot, it might be better to choose one on this list with a different configuration.

How much space around the table?

For regular play, keep about 4-6 feet of space around each side of the table so you have plenty of room to move around.

Is it easy to assemble and store?

 According to user reviews, the Joola 15 is very easy to handle. The two halves come apart for easy moving and storage, and when apart it will fit through a standard door. It also has wheels, so you’ll never need to lift the parts. It is recommended that you have at least two people since it is quite heavy.

Does it come with accessories?

Unfortunately with this table, you’ll need to provide the paddles and balls. It comes with the net, table parts, rolling casters and leg levelers.

Will it level on carpet?

In user reviews, many people have had a concern but no problem using this table on a carpeted surface. It has a nice weight to it and comes with adjustable rollers and legs so you’ll be able to get it level.

Is it okay to use it outside?

Keep in mind that while you can use this (or any) ping pong table outside, that’s not its intended use. Humidity, sun and other elements play a factor in the overall life of any play table. So, while you can use it outside, you’d be better off getting an outdoor model so you know it’s going to be okay and won’t suffer damage.

What are the dimensions?

108” x 60” x 30”

How to clean it?

There are many products you can use to keep the surface looking good. If you don’t have any deep dirt or stains, wiping with a damp cloth should suffice. However, if it’s really dirty, try a cleaner like Invisible Glass with a microfiber cloth. Make sure not to scrub – just wipe. Dry it right away, not letting the cleaner sit for any length of time.

Any tools needed?

To assemble this table, you’ll need wrenches to attach the legs. That’s all.

Final Verdict

The Joola Indoor 15 is a good budget table. While it doesn’t come with balls, paddles or any other accessories, it is a good basic model that will serve you well for family fun. Like the other tables on this list, you can even put up one half of the table against the wall and use it as a single player. It has good locks on the wheels and is easy to move and store. If your budget is more on the limited side, you won’t go wrong with this one. After checking around, we found some of the best prices online for this table. In fact, Amazon has discounts going for it right now.Amazon has discounts going for it right now.

 

#6. Harvil I

The Harvil I is a sturdily constructed regulation size table at a fraction of the price of more expensive table tennis models with the same features. It’s easy to set up and break down for storage and seems to wear well over time.

The construction starts with an aluminum tabletop are diagonally supported by a durable powder coated steel frame. The locking wheels allow for ease of movement when transporting the table and provide stability during play.

Video Assembly

t

Quick Stats

  • Dimensions: 108” x 60” x 30”
  • Weight: 148 pounds
  • Positions: 3
  • Included: Cover, 8 balls, 4 rackets, accessory bag
P

Pros

  • Same features as more expensive tables
  • Comes with accessories
  • Easy fast set up and break down

Cons

As with many indoor tables, this one comes in two separate halves. While some players prefer them to be hinged together, having them separate actually makes the table much easier to move and store, and the clamps hold it together securely during gameplay.

What is the construction?

The top of the table is made of painted 5/8” MDF, so it’s very sturdy. On top of that is silkskin striping. The frame is made of aluminum and steel.

What about assembly?

This is an easy table to put together as most of it comes pre-assembled right out of the box. You should plan on having two adults on hand though since the parts are heavy.

How is it held together?

The two halves are held together with a pinch hand clamp, and it’s easy to both attach and remove.

Good for solo play?

Yes – this has 3 positions – for 2 players, for 1 player as well as the folded up position for storage.

Final Verdict

If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a decent quality ping pong table, the Harvil I might suit you perfectly. It has aluminum and steel construction as well as locking wheels. The only real thing it’s lacking is leg levelers, so only buy this one if you have a level playing surface on which to set it up. The great thing about the value of this table is that it comes with rackets, balls and a cover, saving you money and getting you into play quickly. Amazon has this table featured with a good discount with all the accessories included right now, but we’re not sure how long the deal will last.

 

#7. Joola Midsize

The Joola Midsize is actually a really cool little ping pong table. It’s smaller than regulation size, so it’s great for those who want to play in smaller spaces. It’s also very easy to store and move around, as the legs fold in, then the table halves come apart, giving it a small footprint. It comes with the net and post set, so if you have paddles and balls, you’ll be ready to play just a few minutes after it’s delivered. If you want to store it away, just put it in the closet!

Video Demo

t

Quick Stats

  • Dimensions: 72”L x 36”W x 30”H
  • Weight: 62 pounds
  • Color: Blue
  • Included: Net and post set
P

Pros

  • Regulation height
  • Compact for smaller spaces
  • Sturdy construction

Cons

If you’re looking for a regulation-sized table, this one isn’t it (though it is regulation height). However, it’s great if you just want light play or to practice and have limited space. Even though it’s small, it is heavy and of good construction. Note that with the smaller price tag, leg levelers are not included, but it’s very level on its own.

What are the dimensions?

This ping pong table is 72 inches long by 36 inches wide and 30.5 inches tall.

Is it easy to transport?

It’s much easier than the other tables on our “best of” list because the size is smaller. It also comes apart into two separate pieces, so it’s even easier to move. When folded, it measures approximately 36” x 30” x 2”. In fact, it’s compact enough to fit into the back of an average station wagon. This also makes it good for tailgating. 🙂

How much space do I need?

It’s recommended to have a space at least 14’ x 7’ so you have enough room to move around the table.

Regular paddles and balls?

While this table is small, you can still use regulation size paddles and balls with it. Note that it does not come with these accessories.

Is it meant for solo play?

This table is not intended for a single player, but since it does come in two halves, you can put one up against the wall for solo play.

Good for 4 players?

You can accommodate four players on this table, but it’s a tight fit. If it’s two adults and two children, it’s not as much of a challenge, but overall it’s best for two players at a time.

Easy to assemble?

This table is super easy to assemble. All you need to do is unfold the legs and attach the net. It only takes a few minutes.

Final Verdict

The Joola Midsize is at the bottom of our list only because it’s small and works best with only two players. That said, if you’re looking for something to fit into your game room just for fun, you won’t be disappointed. While it’s not quite as solid as full sized tables, the price tag is tiny in comparison. If you’re not a pro and have no intention of going in that direction, or if you’re just learning, the Joola Midsize is worth a try. In fact, if you get it right now at Amazon, you’ll get some money off and free delivery, but we’re not sure how long this deal will last.

What goes into selecting a ping pong table?

If you’re looking for a new table tennis table, there are many factors to consider before you buy. There are also so many on the market, sometimes it’s hard to tell which one will be the best choice for you and your family.

First, consider its use. If you’re not a professional or championship player, you don’t a table meant for that use (and with the hefty price tag). If it’s the first table you’re buying for your family, you definitely don’t need professional grade. In fact, if it’s your first table and you’re just learning to play, you may want to buy a cheap model just so you don’t have to worry about beating the heck out of it while you learn. That said, here are a few things to consider.

Portability

Are you going to set the table up and leave it, or is it going to need to go up and down quite a bit? This is really important (or will be) if you want to save yourself a lot of hassle down the road. If you’re going to be putting it up and taking it down constantly, you’ll want one that’s easy to set up. Fold-up models or those that come in separate halves are great for this. If they have rollers, they can be easily set up and taken down by one person. Find a table that has locking wheels preferably so it stays put when it’s supposed to and rolls when you want it to do so.

Table Thickness

In short, most players agree that the thicker the table top, the more stable the play. Thicker tables create more of a nice even bounce compared with thinner models. That said, we’ve found that there really isn’t much difference in the bounce of a ¾” thick top vs a 1” thick model. If you’re a professional or tournament player, you’ll probably want a 1” thick top, but for casual home play it’s really not important.

The Legs

One place to not compromise is having strong, stable legs at the bottom. Since these support all game play and any knocking around the table might receive, it’s important they can take a beating.

One good feature to look out for is levelers on the legs. If you have these, you can use the table on surfaces that aren’t quite even and/or level (think carpet). Leg levelers are very handy not only for level play but also so you can keep the height at 30”, the standard game play height.

Level Top

One big reason, probably the biggest, reason to keep indoor tables indoors is to avoid warping. These tables aren’t treated properly to withstand the humidity of outdoors. If the surface becomes warped, playing ping pong will be a lot less fun.

The Net

When shopping for a table, try to get one where the net clamps have a soft covering so they don’t scratch the table surface. If your table doesn’t have this feature, you can put some felt or soft cloth on the clamps to protect your table. Also, make sure you don’t tighten them so much as to damage the surface. Lastly, don’t drag the clamps on the table when you remove them to avoid scratching.

The Size

While regulation table tennis table size is 9’ (108”) long x 5’ (60”) wide x 2’6” (30”) high. A regulation net should be 6’ (72”) long x 6” high. This means a standard net hangs over the table 6” on each side.

As for space to play for recreational use, it’s recommended to have and area at least 38’x 13’ so you have plenty of room to move around unrestricted. Officially for local tournaments, the size should be 30’ x 16’6”; for national league matches 33’ x 16’6”; for national tournaments 40’ x 20’ and for international events such as the Olympics, it should be 46’ x 23’.

Now that said, many homes simply don’t have the space to accommodate a table of that size. This is where compact models fit in really well. These tables generally are regulation height but are smaller in the playing surface. If you’re just noodling around at home or want a table for the kids, a compact table might be just the right choice for you.

However, if you’re looking at getting serious about the sport or you’re just beginning and aren’t sure just how serious you’ll be, you may want to go for a regulation size. For serious practice, your strokes will be different on a compact table, so it might make you develop bad habits that don’t translate well to a full-sized table. Some problems with smaller tables are that you might put too much spin on the ball or you might hit it too soft so it doesn’t fly past the edge of the table.

Cover it up?

While buying a good cover is just about essential for an outdoor table to keep the sun and snow off, it’s a little different for an indoor model. However, I still highly recommend having one. Not only will it protect your table from dust and dirt, it will also protect it from scratches and fingerprints. Not to mention if it’s sitting out all the time, you might be tempted to stack the mail or other objects onto it or set drinks on it. All of these things can cause damage to the surface over time.

By keeping the above items in mind, you’ll be sure to find a table that suits you perfectly. Whether you’re a competitor in training or just want your kids to have some fun at home, taking these things into consideration while considering your budget, you can add another element of fun to your recreation time!

Comments

comments