Ping-pong is a fantastic outdoor activity for all ages. Whether you want a gentle game or a fast-paced one, having a quality table to play on is essential. When choosing a table that will be kept outside, you need to ensure that it will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it.
Outdoor table tennis tables need to be durable and weather-resistant, in addition to providing a good playing surface. The JOOLA NOVA Pro Plus Outdoor has all of these characteristics, plus it folds up for storage and has a playback feature that allows single players to practice.
What to know before you buy an outdoor ping-pong table
Indoor vs. outdoor ping-pong tables
Although you can use some tables inside and out, most are designed to be used in just one of these settings. Generally speaking, if you want to play table tennis at a competitive level you’ll want to purchase an indoor table. These have tabletops that are thicker and made entirely of wood, and as such have a more uniform bounce across the entire surface. Of course, you will need to have enough room in your house to accommodate one.
For most casual players, an outdoor table is an excellent solution. They don’t provide quite the same feel as you’d find on professional circuits, as the tabletop is usually much thinner, but you can still have a great game and a lot of fun using one. They are made of tougher materials that can withstand the elements, so you can play in your driveway, yard or garage without worrying about your table being damaged by the weather.
Ping-pong table dimensions and playing space
A standard table is 9 feet by 5 feet and sits 30 inches from the ground. To move around comfortably, each player should have a minimum of 6 feet behind the table and 3 feet on either side. As a result, your total playing area needs to be roughly 21 feet long by 11 feet wide.
If you don’t have enough room, you could always opt for a mid-sized table.
Consider the climate you live in before you buy
As with any outdoor sport, the weather is going to be a main factor in how often you’ll be able to play. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of wind or rain, you might want to consider an indoor selection.
Outdoor ping-pong table features
Folding ping-pong tables vs. stationary ping-pong tables
If you have enough space to leave your table-tennis table in position year-round, a stationary design might be the ideal choice. Some static ping-pong tables allow you to remove the net, so they can double as a dining area.
The majority of people prefer a table that can be folded away. Most fold in two separate halves that nest together for a compact storage solution. As well as saving space, many fold-up tables also offer a playback function so that individual players can practice by themselves.
Ping-pong net and clamps
Ping-pong tables are usually sold with a net and fixtures included. A standard net is 6 feet long by 6 inches high. The net is supposed to overhang the edge of the table by 6 inches on either side. Some stationary tables have fixed nets, whereas others feature removable ones. Folding tables typically sport a removable net, which is installed using clamps. Many outdoor tables come with plastic clamps, which are fine for infrequent use. Metal clamps are available if you want a sturdier alternative, but they might not be weather-proofed.
Outdoor ping-pong table construction materials
In order to withstand various weather conditions, most outdoor table-tennis tables are metal. Many have an aluminum composite tabletop and a galvanized steel undercarriage.
Outdoor ping-pong table cost
For general outdoor fun, you can pick up a good-quality table for about $400 that should last a few years with proper care. More serious enthusiasts need to invest around $1,000 or more to have the quality they desire.
Outdoor ping-pong table FAQ
How should I clean my ping-pong table?
A. Firstly, avoid harsh chemicals or solvents as this may damage the surface of the table. Use a dry cloth to wipe away any light dust. You can use a damp cloth and mild soap to remove tough stains.
Can I leave my ping-pong table out year-round?
A. Essentially, yes. Outdoor tables are designed to withstand the elements. However, a table will almost certainly last longer if you try to protect it from overexposure. You can do this by purchasing a cover.
Which outdoor ping-pong table should I get?
Best of the best outdoor ping-pong table
JOOLA NOVA Pro Plus Outdoor: available at Amazon
Our take: A sturdy table that should hold up well to years of use.
What we like: Its eight 6-inch-high caster wheels provide vital stability and allow it to glide effortlessly on most terrain. It has a safety latch that ensures the table won’t fall open unexpectedly when in storage.
What we dislike: The color of the playing surface may fade over time.
Best bang for your buck outdoor ping-pong table
Stiga XTR Series Table Tennis Table: available at Amazon
Our take: This reasonably-priced foldable table is ideal for family gatherings and informal games.
What we like: The aluminum composite top is waterproof and resistant to sun damage. It’s straightforward to set up and its four legs are adjustable to help combat uneven ground.
What we dislike: The quality of the wheels could be better.
Honorable mention outdoor ping-pong table
Cornilleau 700X Outdoor Table Tennis Table: available at Amazon
Our take: A high-quality table with a multitude of features.
What we like: As well as all the standard characteristics, this model has cup holders, a point-counting system, ball dispensers and storage for your paddles. It also comes with corner protectors to help to prevent wear and tear.
What we dislike: It might be a little expensive for casual players.
Catherine Bushen is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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