Indoor v Outdoor
Table Tennis Table

So, now that you know the size dimensions of a table tennis table and you've considered how your table will be used (part one), let's take a look at the first decision you'll need to make...

Table tennis tables are available in many different styles and although table tennis is generally played indoors, it can also be played outdoors.

However, to play table tennis outdoors you'll need the right weather conditions.

Firstly, it needs to be dry - but just as important, it mustn't be windy as this will affect the flight of the ball.

Windy conditions will also cause debris to be blown onto the table surface which can impede the bounce of the ball.

So ... unless you need a table solely for outdoor use...

I'd recommend...

that you buy an indoor table.

Indoor tables have a much better playing surface than tables designed for outdoor use ... but more importantly, other venues will use indoor tables, so you'll get used to playing on a type of table that other places are more likely to have.

You could still use your indoor table outdoors, but you'll just need to move it back inside after you've finished playing.

However, if you do need a table tennis table that'll be left outside permanently, you'll need to ensure that it's designed specifically for outdoor use.

The best models of outdoor tables have galvanised steel undercarriage, net and posts, and a weatherproof top surface - like this example from Butterfly.

But if you want the most durable, weatherproof outdoor table available, then you'll need concrete table tennis tables.

So ... let's now take a look at...

... what different types of indoor tables are available?

continued...