In this article we are going to be discussing what to look for when purchasing a table tennis table, this article is for folks new to the sport of for people who want to upgrade an existing table.

Remember they want your cash!

All manufacturers are trying to convince you that their product is the best for you! So you must get it clear in your mind what you need from a new table. You must focus on what is important to YOU before you buy a table. Are you playing with a few mates in the garage after school, or can you see yourself as the next Olympic Champion, because in this day and age not many people have got money to burn right!

Are you buying a Table Tennis Table for all the family.

If you intend to allow all of the family to use the table I would suggest looking to the budget end of the market. Lets face it young families tend to give a table a hard time when learning, so it makes sense to buy carefully at first, and later upgrade if somebody shows real flare and commitment to the sport.

Fixed or Folding Table.

Few people have the room to leave a table tennis table set up permanently in the house so i would recommend a folding table as they are very easy to use, and make good starter tables. Ensure the table can be setup and closed by 1 person. Good tables have rollers so you can move it around. You don’t want your table to move during play, so ensure the brakes work well.

To be honest even if you decide that the table can be permanently set-up, a foldaway table is still a very good idea, as circumstances can change, maybe a new addition to the family needs the room or you want to move house and no longer have the space. This is obviously a high value item and you must consider all factors.

Is Table Thickness an issue?

The upper end of the market are 1 inch (25mm) thick, this is a competition standard table and does come with increased cost. I have found that the play on modern 19mm (0.75 inches) tables is excellent and well worth considering. Most top players will not be afraid to admit that their first, or second for that matter, table was not full spec competition standard. So I would recommend looking for a 19mm thick top from a good manufacturer like Stiga, unless you can find a thicker top for a great price.

Once you get to a good competition standard you will be well into the sport by now, and investing in a table of the same standard that you are going to use in tournaments will make perfect sense.

Don’t just look at the playing surface.

Good tables don’t just have a great playing surface, make sure you check out the support legs. All good tables have leg levellers. This is essential if you plan on playing outdoor table tennis. All Tables should be 76cm from ground level. Quality is crucial if you want your table to last, so look at the ancillaries like net fittings, are they going to fall apart?

All things must be taken into account if you want to spend your money carefully. Have fun with your Table Tennis.

Paul Bucannon has been playing Table Tennis for many years, and knows how vital it is to get a quality product for a great price when Buying a Table Tennis Table Take a look at his site for more money saving information for your next Table Tennis Table