Ping pong is a versatile game that can be played both indoors and outdoors. If you’re searching for a table that’s specifically designed to handle backyard play, then you have to look for some of the best outdoor ping pong tables on the market. They are designed to withstand the elements and are made out of materials that are weather-resistant such as aluminum and laminate. Picking one out of the many, however, won’t be an easy task!
In this guide, I’ve reviewed a lot of models that claim they’re designed for both indoor and outdoor play. Still, some of them have features that could potentially cause the table to warp in humid weather or even rust if left outdoors. After plenty of research, I was able to narrow it down to 10 models that are built tough, come equipped with all the right features, and are specifically made to handle whatever mother nature throws their way.
Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that lists each of my top picks. It includes the most important standout features of the different tables. This will help you to quickly identify which model will work for you, and which ones won’t have what it takes to meet your needs, whether it’s durability, size, or your budget.
Outdoor Ping Pong Table Comparison Chart
Product | Leg Levelers | Surface Material | Surface Dimensions | Our Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
JOOLA NOVA Table Shop On Amazon! | Yes | Aluminum & Plastic Composite | 9 x 5 ft | |
STIGA XTR Table Shop On Amazon! | No | Aluminum Composite | 9 x 5 ft | |
Kettler Champ 5.0 Shop On Amazon! | Yes | Aluminum | 9 x 5 ft | |
Cornilleau Crossover Table Shop On Amazon! | Yes | Laminate | 9 x 5 ft | |
Harvil Outsider Table Shop On Amazon! | No | Aluminum | 9 x 5 ft | |
Franklin Sports Table | No | MDF | 9 x 5 ft | |
Butterfly Crossline | No | Synthetic laminate | 9 x 5 ft | |
Penn Acadia All-Weather | Yes | Aluminum | 9 x 5 ft | |
Butterfly Playback Rollaway | No | Synthetic laminate | 9 x 5 ft | |
Vermont Foldaway | No | PVC laminate | 9 x 5 ft |
JOOLA NOVA – Outdoor Table Tennis Table
JOOLA is one of those manufacturers that all ping pong enthusiasts are familiar with. This is a company that’s been around for decades and they’ve earned a solid reputation for their tournament-quality tables that come loaded with the type of features that most buyers are looking for.
The JOOLA NOVA is durable, weatherproof, and features a six-millimeter thick aluminum-plastic composite surface. That same surface is designed to resist chipping and warping and can easily handle exposure to inclement weather. Additionally, the frame of the table is made out of powder-coated, rust-resistant steel.
The net is also weather-resistant, so you can leave it set up year-round. It features the traditional screw design, complete with a tensioning system that’s highly adjustable. The table’s short assembly time is one of its biggest selling points. It will arrive ninety-five percent assembled, with a total assembly time of just ten to fifteen minutes. All you have to do is attach eight bolts and the table is ready for action.
There is a separate halve design that can be used for both one-player playbacks and also makes it easier to store the table. The table’s anti-tilt locking device works to lock each half of the table automatically when it’s placed in a folded position. In order to unlock the table, just hit the lever and the table unfolds automatically. The table comes with 8 caster wheels that lock for improved stability. The caster wheels are 3″ thick and will easily glide over any type of terrain, so it’s perfect for back patios or the lawn.
Pros
- Decent value for your money
- Separate folding halves
- Compact design allows easy storage
- Highly portable
- Durable playing surface
- Weather-resistant net
- Leg levelers
- Has a playback position
Cons
- There is no mechanism to connect the two halves of the table, which can result in a gap in the playing surface
- Joola’s customer service isn’t stellar
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a table for a backyard that slopes or is uneven, then you’ll love the fact that this table comes equipped with adjustable leg levelers. Now, you can independently adjust the height of each of the legs to ensure the playing surface is nice and even for an optimal gameplay experience.
In conclusion, this is a versatile table that can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. The foldable design allows you to easily collapse the table and transport and store it, or you can take advantage of the solo play option and practice your serves before the upcoming tournament. Its leg levelers further add to the table’s versatility so you can essentially set it up anywhere in the yard, collapse it, and store it at the end of the day. The weather-proof playing surface and frame are both designed to easily withstand the elements, so the table can be left out year-round, without warping or corroding.
STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table
STIGA is another major brand and one that’s known for its affordable tables that are also tournament-worthy. Many of their leading models can be used both indoors and outdoors and feature playing surfaces that offer excellent bounce response. Their latest model is one of their best to date and offers the type of durable design that you need in a table that’s intended for outdoor use. If you’re in need of a well-designed table that’s specifically designed to handle rain, humidity, and intense heat, then you’ll want to take a closer look at the Stiga XTR.
This model is perfect for backyard use and consists of materials that are able to withstand harsh weather conditions. It has a durable and naturally rust-resistant aluminum composite top. It offers the type of playability and response that you’d normally get from an indoor table. In most cases, assembling a ping pong table can easily take one to two hours. However, here the manufacturer has done an excellent job of streamlining the assembly process. In other words, here you’ll only spend approximately ten minutes putting together a table that arrives almost fully assembled.
If you don’t have enough space on your patio or lawn to leave the table set up outdoors year-round, then you’ll appreciate the portable design. It allows you to easily fold the table into a compact position for storage. In terms of quality, the only issue I found involved the net, which, while adjustable, has a flimsy feel to it.
Pros
- Foldable design
- Caster wheels
- Highly portable
- Easy to store
- Fairly durable
- Cheaper than some similarly sized alternatives
- Responsive playing surface
Cons
- Net feels flimsy and should be upgraded
- The net doesn’t hold well against all weather
Conclusion
While the manufacturer claims that the net is made out of materials that are able to withstand humidity and wet weather conditions, if you do decide to leave this table out year-round I do recommend removing the net in inclement weather. Fortunately, a new net is an affordable upgrade and it’s one that will make all the difference for this table.
Equipped with eight large caster wheels and a portable, foldable design, you can collapse the table in seconds and wheel it to its designated storage space. You can also leave the XTR outdoors permanently without the fear of the table degrading due to harsh weather conditions. The table’s highly responsive playing surface is one of its best features. It allows you to play and practice on a table that offers a similar gaming experience to an indoor table. A great buy for the price if you’re looking for a model that’s sturdy, durable, and offers the best in backyard table tennis!
Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table
This latest ping pong table by Kettler is made out of weatherproof materials. The Kettler Champ 5.0 comes complete with an anti-glare waterproof aluminum playing surface and an ALU-TEC climate control undercarriage. Its anti-glare surface will allow you to easily keep track of the ball, even when you’re playing a match in intense sunlight. The patented design covers the boards of the table in aluminum in order to provide further protection from the elements.
The table features two inches of powder coating and legs made out of galvanized steel that’s corrosion-resistant. To prevent warping, the table has a resin apron that’s 2.25 inches thick. Portability is important to buyers who aren’t able to leave their tables out in the yard year-round. This model features a foldable design that makes storing it a cinch. Its locking mechanism will prevent the table from accidentally opening up during transport, which is a must-have safety feature that you won’t find on every table.
The six-inch dual caster wheels come complete with a rubberized surface that’s designed to handle a variety of terrain types. The accessories package includes two paddles, three ping pong balls, and a cover that will provide further protection from the elements. For practice, you can place the table into the playback position, or open it up and enjoy a regulation-sized table that the whole family will enjoy.
There’s also an integrated paddle and ball holder, so you can ensure all the pieces remain with the table, neatly organized. Even more important, the playing surface features Kettler’s patented manufacturing process that seals the wood permanently for years, for ultimate durability and a table that’s guaranteed to last year after year.
Pros
- Includes extra accessories
- Highly portable
- Durable
- Free cover
- Resin apron included
- Easy to setup and store
Cons
- High maintenance needs
- Build quality is mediocre
- A bit expensive
Conclusion
This table comes with all the bells and whistles you could want including free accessories, a cover that provides additional protection from the weather, large caster wheels that allow you to easily transport this table to its designated storage spot, and leg levelers that will allow you to independently adjust the height of each leg if the table is placed on an uneven playing surface. Basically, it’s a great choice for the family on a budget and anyone looking for a durable table that has what it takes to survive intense heat, humid conditions, or exposure to rainfall.
Cornilleau Crossover Outdoor Table
This is an affordable ping pong table by Cornilleau that’s designed for outdoor use. It features an excellent bounce response and an anti-glare playing surface that will allow you to easily see the table’s surface even in bright sunlight. The durable weatherproof design can handle rainfall, wind, and humidity well. That allows it to be set up permanently in the backyard or stored in the garage when not in use.
The included net and post set is made out of materials that are designed to prevent rot or mold. They feature a design that allows you to adjust both the tension and the height of the net. The frame is made out of galvanized steel and is equipped with legs that are highly adjustable. This allows users of all heights to partake in the fun. The manufacturer also notes that the table is specifically designed as wheelchair-friendly, which will be a huge plus for some buyers. The table’s portable design includes foldable table halves and large caster wheels that will smoothly glide over any type of terrain.
The Cornilleau 500M can also be placed in the playback position. This is perfect for the serious player who wants to practice for an upcoming match, or the beginner who’s just learning the ropes. Of course, the table’s basic design may be a drawback for some buyers who are looking for a model that comes with accessories and extra features, but if durability is a priority, then you’ll find that this table is a steal for the price.
Pros
- Eight-inch caster wheels
- Durable playing surface
- Easy to fold and store
- Playback position
- Anti-glare coating
- Laminate surface
- Wheelchair-friendly
Cons
- Height of the table can be difficult to adjust
- It is expensive
Conclusion
Not every potential buyer is looking for a table that’s flashy or tournament-worthy. While the design is fairly basic and the table doesn’t come with any extra accessories, this is an affordable, well-built table that’s specifically designed for outdoor use and features an adjustable design that also makes it wheelchair-friendly. The table’s adjustability makes it suitable for players of all ages and will allow the entire family to join in on the fun.
Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table
This table features a weatherproof tabletop made out of aluminum, which is naturally rust-resistant, and a powder-coated frame that will not rust or corrode even if left outdoors year-round. The table has large caster wheels that will lock in place to prevent the table from moving during use. The folding halves allow you to place the table in the one-person playback position or fold it up for easier storage. Folding the table in half for individual play is a great way to practice ping pong tricks and serves.
Unlike some competing models, the table will remain connected, even when folded, so there is no gap between the two halves that the ball could drop through. The large wheels make it easy to move the table from one spot to another and come with locks that will allow you to keep the table securely in place, preventing the table from moving or rolling during use.
This model does not feature leg levelers, which would allow you to adjust the height of each of the legs, independently. While this is a drawback for some, if you’re looking for a table for your back patio, the lack of this feature shouldn’t be an issue. The table also comes equipped with a good ping pong net designed for outdoor use. It’s made out of a combination of nylon and cotton and will not rot or become moldy if left out in the rain.
Pros
- Aluminum playing surface
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Foldable design
- Large caster wheels
Cons
- Does not come with leg levelers
Conclusion
The manufacturer clearly focused more on durability than extra features. So, if you’re looking for a table that was built to handle intense heat, humidity, and wet weather, and a model that’s built solid, then you’ll appreciate this best-selling model by Harvil. A steal for the price, the table features a highly portable design that makes it easy to store and transport. Additionally, the foldable design also allows you to place the table in the playback position, for a challenging practice session.
The aluminum surface is designed to handle rainfall, intense heat, and humidity, without rotting, corroding or warping. This is a large, regulation-sized table that’s perfect for both the beginner and the serious player and it offers the type of responsive playing surface that every buyer is looking for.
Franklin Sports Optima Table Tennis Table
The Franklin Sports Optima Outdoor Table Tennis table is one of the top models for this year for quite a few reasons. Despite its bigger price tag, it comes fully equipped to deal with all sorts of inclement weather. The table is just as big as all of its competitors with a regulation-sized playing field. It also boasts a professional net and is extremely practical with 8 caster wheels and individual leg levelers on all 4 legs.
The main benefit of this table is that it is made out of aluminum and MDF composite. Its playing surface is very tough and it does feel quite authentic even though the sound isn’t quite the same. Aluminum is one of my favorite options for outdoor ping pong tables as it doesn’t rust, weighs close to nothing, and is resistant to any type of weather and temperature. Pair that with the MDF core and you get a truly good all-around experience.
The Optima also has a few other tricks up its sleeve. It can be folded in half allowing for a quick playback setting. All that is done via various locking mechanisms that are a bit hard to get at first but are easy to follow once you get the hang out of them.
All of the 8 caster wheels are lockable which helps with stability and safety. The table is very easy to move around and store. It takes very little space when folded in half. The net is also weather-resistant and features official regulation metrics. It uses a pro-clamp net attachments on both sides and is really easy to adjust and take on/off. To help with leveling the table on various outdoor surfaces, there are four leg levelers on each leg.
Pros
- Regulation-sized
- Professional quality
- Practical design
- Easy to move around and store
- Pro-clamp net
- Aluminum design
Cons
- Very expensive
- A bit hard to setup and use
Conclusion
If you are on a tight budget, this table isn’t really the best alternative out there for you since it comes at quite the price. However, it more than makes up for its price tag with its long-term durability, practicality, and overall quality. Still, if you are set on getting something from this brand, have in mind that they also have a much cheaper indoor table and a mid-sized option for even less money. All in all, this is a solid choice and a great all-rounder for people looking for a solid outdoor ping pong table!
Butterfly Timo Boll Crossline Outdoor Ping Pong Table
Butterfly is a well-known brand in the ping-pong world that specializes in professional-grade products. Their Timo Boll Crossline Outdoor Ping Pong Table is a well-priced table that is packed with all the features that you will need out of an outdoor model. It is fully equipped to handle all types of weather outside and can double as an indoor alternative. Apart from it being a bit hard to operate, the table offers all that you will need for a cheaper price tag than some of the big names in the industry.
The table has a 5mm melamine playing surface which is wrapped with metal profiles on all sides. It weighs around 140 lbs when fully assembled which gives it a good amount of sturdiness when you lean on it during the game. It also comes fairly assembled so that you don’t have to spend hours of your time to set it up from scratch. Still, it will be a 2-person job and it will take around half an hour to fully set it up. Once ready, the table is easy to move around thanks to its large wheels and innovative folding mechanism. Apart from being able to fold in half for easy storage, the table also supports a single player playback mode which is amazing to see in this price class.
The net of the table is also weather-resistant. It is a tournament-grade net which complements the regulation-sized table by making it as professional as possible. In other words, it really is going after the more expensive tables and it presents quite the intriguing alternative to all the models from Joola and Stiga.
Pros
- Good value for its price
- Professional-grade dimensions
- Weather-proof surface and net
- 50mm metal rails
- Can be stored in a tight space
- Single player playback mode
- Large caster wheels
Cons
- Hard to open once closed
- Not very easy to operate
- Setup isn’t as easy as on some other tables
Conclusion
For what you pay, the Butterfly Timo Boll Crossline is one of the better values for your money on the market. It comes fully-equipped with everything that you will need and is regulation-sized both in terms of its playing surface and the net it uses. While the table isn’t the easiest to operate, it still folds and moves around just like most other outdoor models, making it quite practical. All in all, this is money well-spent if you don’t want to break the bank with similar but more expensive models from the well-known brands.
Penn Acadia All-Weather Outdoor-Indoor Table Tennis Table
Penn isn’t a brand that is as well-known as Joola or Stiga in the ping pong world. However, they don’t compromise a ton in terms of build quality compared to those same brands. Their Acadia all-weather outdoor-indoor table tennis table is one of the flagships of the company and it does fairly well against all the famous players in this industry.
As with some other mid-priced models, the table is almost fully made out of aluminum which has its pros and cons. On the upside, it does bring the overall weight of the table down. It also handles all sorts of bad weather very well due to the lack of possible corrosion. The table also has a decent bounce to it, really close to what you would get from a wood composite table. However, on the downside, aluminum has a fundamentally different feel than indoor tables which might show with time. Also, it absorbs heat much faster so it can get a bit hot to the touch on hot summer days.
The Acadia folds in half just like all other outdoor models in this price range. The mechanism it uses is very similar to the one on the Stiga XTR and Joola Nova. Granted, it isn’t as smooth and well-made but it still operates in a very similar fashion. The whole table comes almost fully assembled from the factory, so you will need less than half an hour to finish the setup. The net is a clamp-on model and it sits above an almost invisible seam between the two halves. When stored, the table is extremely compact and fairly easy to move around thanks to the 8 caster wheels at its bottom.
Pros
- Decently priced
- Fairly durable
- All aluminum construction
- Easy to setup
- Weather-resistant
- Leg levelers
- Playback option
Cons
- Can be hot to the touch in the summer days
- Build quality is lacking behind the more famous models
Conclusion
With its easy setup, playback option, leg levelers, and all-aluminum construction, the Penn Acadia is one of the better-rounded models on today’s market. It is a table truly meant to be played outdoors and comes with all the features that you will need in an outdoor setting. Its construction allows it to withstand all types of weather while the tournament-grade size and net will be good enough for your to practice hours at a time. And that is without even mentioning that the table is actually priced quite competitively compared to the rest of the market. What I want to say is that if you have a slightly larger budget, this should definitely be on your shortlist!
Butterfly Playback Rollaway Outdoor Ping Pong Table
The Butterfly Playback Rollaway Outdoor Ping Pong Table is another model from the brand that is slightly more expensive but is definitely worth your consideration. Unlike other models, it does come with a synthetic laminate top surface that is wrapped with a thin sheet of metal to protect it from the elements. The table’s foundation and frame are made out of alloy steel which really helps with its long-term durability and rigidity. To further help with the rigidity, there are also cross-bars between all the legs. This really helps prevent the table from shaking or moving around when you’re in the middle of a heated game.
The top laminate surface is regulation-sized at 9×5 feet and has a professional clamp-on net in the middle. Around it, there is a rust-proof metal frame that keeps the surface stable and prevents it from absorbing any water and warping. A testament to the brand’s trust in this outdoor model, they give it 10 years of full warranty for the top and 3 years for the frame. As with other models in this price class, the model is easily foldable and can be stored away thanks to its caster wheels. There is also a single-player playback mode by folding only one-half of the table.
One thing that I really like about the Playback is that there are rackets and ball holders on both sides of the table. Little things like this are what some top models miss and can make for a much better experience. As with everything else on the table, the net is also weather-proof so you can easily leave it outside when the table isn’t stored. Another cool detail is that you can get this table in either blue or green which is a nice way to customize the user experience.
Pros
- Regulation-sized
- Easy to store away
- Weather-resistant
- Racket and ball holders
- Playback mode
- Weather-resistant net
Cons
- Very expensive
- Difficult to setup
Conclusion
All in all, the Butterfly playback rollaway is a premium ping pong table that comes loaded with all the features that we are used to seeing in this price class. It is built really well and is wrapped in weather-resistant materials. The table is easy to store, easy to move around, and superb to play on. Its only fairly major downside is that it does cost more than most other outdoor ping pong tables. Still, if money isn’t the issue, this should definitely check all your boxes!
Vermont Foldaway Ping Pong Table
Last on this list is the Vermont Foldaway Ping Pong Table. It is a fairly budget alternative to all other outdoor models on this list and it does have a few compromises which help it keep its price down. For starters, the playing surface is made out of a nylon composite material. Nylon is extremely resistant to water and other types of inclement weather but can warp in intense heat conditions. This makes this table a less-than-ideal option for someone looking to place it in a hot backyard. Still, apart from the surface, everything else is coated metal which helps with weather resistance and rigidity.
One of the best features of this table is that it can easily fold into a suitcase measuring 57 by 33 by 10 inches. Still, it does weigh 150 lbs which will make it fairly hard to carry around by a single person. No matter its practicality, when unfolded, this table actually has regulation-sized dimensions at 9 by 5 feet. As for the playability, the net isn’t quite as good as the nets on some other outdoor tables. The clamp-on mechanism isn’t very sturdy and the net’s quality just isn’t great.
The setup process of the table is very straightforward and doesn’t require more than one person. It will take you less than 30 minutes to initially set the table up and after that it just becomes a matter of deploying it and storing it back into its place once you’re done.
Pros
- Folds into a suitcase
- Regulation-sized
- Fairly cheap
- Sturdy construction
- Practical design
- Easy to setup
- Easy to transport
Cons
- The build quality isn’t stellar
- The net isn’t good
- No playback mode
- No leg levelers
Conclusion
When it comes to practicality and value, this table is clearly a top contender. However, the Vermont Foldaway does lack in the quality department. It doesn’t have wheels to roll it away into its storage department. Moreover, there are no individual leg levelers so you only rely on the table’s frame to make sure it is leveled, which isn’t always ideal. As a whole, if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t have a ton of space for storage, this is a solid option.
Outdoor Ping Pong Tables Buyer’s Guide
The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor tables is the types of materials used to make each table. An outdoor table will come equipped with a combination of aluminum, galvanized steel, or wood, in addition to a coating that’s weather-resistant and waterproof. An indoor table is usually made out of wood, with metal accents.
While an outdoor table is significantly heavier, they often have a much thinner playing surface compared to an indoor model. The biggest advantage that comes with outdoor tables is the fact that they can also be used indoors, whereas a table that’s specifically made for indoor use cannot be used outside.
Features To Look For
Below, you’ll find many of the features you’ll need to look for. These will ensure that the outdoor table you purchase is designed to handle outdoor use. They will also help you decide what you can anticipate in terms of maintenance. Those features are:
- Weatherproof
- Portability
- Anti-Glare
- UV Protection
- Playing Surface
- Size
- Legs
- Foldability
- Frame
- Leg levelers
- Net
Weatherproofing
Before you buy, take a look at the table’s playing surface. Typically, a traditional table will be made out of solid wood, which is perfect for indoor use. But stick one of these tables outdoors and they’re prone to rot and warping. Tables that are designed for outdoor use will have a playing surface that’s made out of aluminum. They also come equipped with a synthetic laminate top that makes them more durable.
Portability
As I mentioned earlier, these tables are often much heavier than indoor models. But if you don’t have a dedicated space outside that will allow you to leave the table set up all summer long, then you’ll want a model that comes equipped with wheels, which will allow you to roll the table off to the side or store it in the garage once you’re done for the day. Aside from rain and heat, you also have to take high winds into consideration.
On high wind days, a table with wheels can be stored in a safe space to prevent damage. Tables that feature a quick fold design will allow you to collapse the table and easily store it, adding to the table’s portability.
Anti-Glare
Since you’ll be playing outside in bright sunlight, finding a table that has an anti-glare surface will be a huge help. Serving with the reflection from the sun in your eyes can really slow down a game. Many manufacturers now produce tables that have an anti-glare coating on the surface. This can ensure you can enjoy playing in a variety of lighting conditions, comfortably.
UV Protection
Another big difference between outdoor and indoor tables is the type of weatherproofing modifications. They will protect the table from damage caused by constant exposure to harmful UV rays. These rays can fade the table’s surface and in most cases do it within a year. A coating specifically designed to protect the playing surface from fading and other damage caused by constant UV exposure will be a huge plus.
Playing Surface
While the playing surface on an indoor table is often much thicker and made out of solid wood to optimize performance, an outdoor table will usually feature a thinner playing surface that’s made out of aluminum, melamine, or resin-treated wood, all of which are warp-resistant and rust-proof. Constant exposure to the elements can cause corrosion, discoloration, warping, and rusting. An outdoor table should have a special, thinner playing surface that can remain stable in any type of weather.
While indoor tables have a surface that’s made out of wood to promote a higher, natural bounce, this type of material is highly susceptible to deterioration outdoors when it’s exposed to sunlight and moisture. Outdoor tables have a reputation for not offering the same type of bounce response that you’d get from indoor models, but many manufacturers are now producing outdoor tables that do.
Size
Since you’ll be setting the table up outdoors, you don’t have to be quite as concerned about space limitations. You can set up one of these tables outside, anywhere. The size of a table will be determined by the table’s intended purpose, whether it’s designed for pro-use or recreational play. A standard-sized table measures around one hundred and eight inches in length, thirty inches high, and sixty inches wide. Tables that are designed for tournament play will measure seventy-two inches wide, and one hundred and forty-four inches in length.
Outdoor tables will vary in their storage and playback dimensions. Some models will be heavier and larger than others and are designed to be set up in a permanent spot in the yard, while others are lightweight, come equipped with wheels, and are designed for easy storage.
Legs
The legs should be thick and made out of zinc alloy, aluminum, or steel since they need to be weatherproof, durable, and strong. Usually, tables equipped with thicker legs are much sturdier and will not wobble or move during gameplay. Typically, the legs will also be powder-coated to protect against rust and corrosion.
Foldability
Because these tables are modified in order to withstand the elements, an outdoor table is often heavier than an indoor model. This can have an impact on storage, portability, and assembly. Fortunately, most models have collapsible and foldable features that will allow them to be easily broken down for improved portability and storage. Some models will even come in two connected halves or two separate haves that are connected via a net.
Frame
Most often, these tables will come with a frame that’s made out of materials such as aluminum or galvanized steel. This will prevent the table from warping or rusting. The frame must be thicker and sturdier in order to handle heavy-duty use, wind, rain, snow, heat, and humidity, which is exactly what you need in a table that will remain outdoors year-round.
The frames are also designed to keep the playing surface rigid and flat. They should also provide the type of stability you need in a frame that can handle the elements. If you have small children, search for a frame that has padded or rounded edges that are designed to provide extra protection in the event someone bumps into it.
Leg Levelers
Most outdoor tables will come equipped with leg levelers that work independently. Additionally, they will allow you to adjust the height of each leg in order to compensate for an uneven or sloping surface. This adds to the table’s versatility, so even if your backyard slopes you can adjust the table’s legs and enjoy an even playing surface.
Net
The net should be made out of durable, weatherproof material that’s designed to prevent rot and mold. An outdoor net is typically made out of a blend of nylon and cotton. It should also be highly adjustable, allowing you to tweak the tension and height. The posts on the net should also be sturdy, weather-resistant, and made out of galvanized steel.
Why Buy an Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Table tennis is addictive, fun, and a great way to keep your family active all throughout the year. This type of fast-paced gameplay can get the heart rate going. It can also burn some serious calories, and improve concentration skills, cognition, and reflexes. An outdoor table allows you to enjoy these health benefits in any type of weather and is often designed with a collapsible frame that will allow you to fold down the playing surface and roll the table to a designated spot in the yard or garage for later use.
These tables often don’t require quite as much maintenance as those that are designed for indoor use only. Also, they don’t have to be stored in a room-temperature environment to prevent warping and damage. This type of low-maintenance design is often what most buyers are looking for in a table that’s built to last.
Playing Ping Pong Outdoors
Playing table tennis outdoors can provide a whole new experience since you’ll be out in the elements, an issue that can have an impact on gameplay at times. During windy weather, make sure you position the table next to a fence or a wall in order to minimize the effects that the wind can have on ball projection.
Also, the table should be secured with lockable casters which will prevent the table from gliding or moving around during use.
Once you’re done playing for the day, fold up the table, fastening it with the included safety latch which will prevent it from opening up accidentally.
If a cover does not come with the table, purchase one that will work with your table’s dimensions. A cover isn’t essential, since the table is made out of weatherproof materials, however, it can help to extend the life of your table.
If you want to learn how to clean and maintain your outdoor ping pong table, make sure you check out my detailed article on the topic!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much room is needed for a ping pong table?
Ping pong tables can take up a good amount of space, even if you are playing outdoors. For a regulation-size table that is 9 feet long by 5 feet wide, it’s best to have a space at least 19 feet long by 11 feet wide to give yourself enough room to play without feeling cramped.
What are the best brands for outdoor ping pong tables?
There are several well-known brands available. JOOLA, Kettler, and Cornilleau all have a nice selection of quality outdoor tables. These are the most common brands that people buy for their patio or outdoor entertainment area. Butterfly and Stiga also make outdoor tables for those with a bigger budget.
What are the main differences between the most affordable and most expensive ping pong tables?
The better-made tables, despite their higher cost, provide a superior bounce quality due to their thicker panels. Other important features like a robust frame, stronger legs, large wheels, a quality net, and options for adjusting the table are often found on higher-quality tables. The superior tabletop coating can also reduce sun glare to help make your outdoor table tennis games more enjoyable.
What are the main differences between indoor and outdoor ping pong tables?
There are many similarities between indoor and outdoor table tennis tables. In general, they have the dimensions in regards to width, length, and height. The biggest difference is the material that is used to make the top of the table tennis top. Indoor tables are made of solid wood. Outdoor tables are built using a combination of wood and metal. They also are finished with a special coating to protect them from outdoor elements such as the wind, sun, and rain. Outdoor tables also tend to have sturdier frames, which adds stability and also increases the cost.
Can I use an indoor ping pong table outside?
We would NOT recommend using an indoor table outside. Indoor tables can easily be damaged and start to deteriorate once the wood surface is exposed to sunlight or if they get wet from rainy conditions. Their frames also won’t last as long since they are not as sturdy and can become damaged if they are sitting on an uneven surface.
Does a ping pong ball bounce differently on an outdoor table versus an indoor table?
Believe it or not, there is a difference in how the ball bounces on outdoor tables compared to indoor tables. On an outdoor table, the wood/metal surface will absorb some of the energy of the ball which prevents it from bouncing as well. The result is that the ball will come off the table at a slower rate than on indoor tables. Fortunately, unless you are competing at an elite level, most table tennis players are not going to be able to tell much difference. In reality, there are plenty of older indoor tables that can have dead spots, so just because you are playing inside doesn’t mean the table will be perfect.
Final Thoughts
The best outdoor ping pong tables are designed to withstand the elements and allow you to enjoy a game of table tennis, any time of the year, in windy, rainy, or hot weather conditions. These tables are built tough, designed to last, and often come equipped with a portable design that allows you to easily store them at the end of the day. However, finding a solid model, one that really can handle intense heat or exposure to humidity can be a challenge.
The tables I’ve included in this guide are the leading models on the market and offer the type of features all buyers are looking for. I’m confident that you’ll find a table that will meet your playing needs, climate, and budget in my top products lineup.