Joseph works as an editor in one of the magazines dedicated to video games. Here, at RecRoomPick, he’s given the opportunity to enjoy the reverse of the medal – the no less engaging world of offline games.
Ryan knows everything when it comes to gaming, both online and offline. Since his early years he’s been in love with arcades, air hockey, and foosball. Finally, he’s given the opportunity to share his knowledge and opinion on the hobby of his life (and even get paid for it!).
Last updated: December 18, 2024
Rec Room Pick is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
It doesn’t matter if you call it table tennis or ping pong – you can’t deny that it is an incredibly entertaining game and a challenging sport as well. Apart from offering a lot of excitement and being a fun way to shed some calories, ping pong also helps create a strong bond between families, friends, and co-workers. However, you must keep in mind that if you prefer playing outdoors, then you’ve got to buy the best outdoor ping pong table that is specially made to the rigors of the outdoors.
Of course, buying a ping pong table is not always a straightforward task as there is a couple of things to look into. With that in mind, we have compiled a list of the top outdoor ping pong tables currently on the market. To ensure that each of our picks is optimally durable, we considered the materials they are made with. The accessories included also determines the versatility of each table, so we considered that as well, along with dimensions and sizes available.
Key Considerations:
Weather Resistance: Ensure the table is made with materials that can withstand different weather conditions, including UV rays, rain, and temperature fluctuations.
Sturdiness and Stability: Look for a table with a robust frame and legs that provide stability during play, especially in windy conditions.
Portability and Storage: Consider tables with foldable designs or wheels for easy movement and storage, particularly if space is limited.
Playing Surface Quality: The surface should be durable and provide a consistent bounce. Outdoor tables often have anti-glare coatings for better visibility.
Net and Accessory Quality: Check the quality of the net and if the table includes additional accessories like paddles and balls, which can be a bonus.
Our research lasted tens of hours. We consulted numerous sources, including the specifications of the products and the feedback of the people who have used them in the past. So, we’ve designed this guide to be as easy to read as possible, by including everything that may help prospective buyers find the best outdoor ping pong table possible, such as a comparison table, detailed product reviews, a buying guide, and a FAQ section.
It is a good investment to protect your ping pong table especially for outside. See our review of best ping pong table covers.
"A popular model that is so effortless to assemble and use; stability is ensured by the 3-inch wheels with locks and 1.25-inch square steel legs with levelers."
The first product on our list is the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table, which with its distinct design is ideal for the garage area and the patio space. The design is very precise and the ping pong table is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, especially with the aluminum composite top it has. The aluminum composite means it provides an excellent bounce and general playability. It’s also an all-weather table, which means it’s been designed to withstand all sorts of weather effects. In fact, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that this model is the best top rated outdoor ping pong table.
For optimum stability, this ping pong table comes with 1.25-inch steel legs. Thanks to the leg levelers, you can easily adjust the table to the desired height or make the playing surface even which is an essential feature if you intend to play at your backyard. The leg part boasts of an automatic opening feature, which enables it open and close easily for handling and storage. To ensure the movement is kept in control, the three-inch diameter wheels also come with safety locks. Apart from providing safety, the locks provide stability as well.
On the underside of the table, you will also find a safety latch. You can use the safety latch to prevent unwanted opening while the table is folded. Looking at all these safety features, it’s easy to see the amount of thought that went into the design of this table. Well, the only thing that may draw buyers back is the rather high price tag, which the table’s durability and performance definitely justifies.
Extra features: playback position for solo practice; comes 95% assembled for quick 10-minute setup; adjustable leg levers; 6-inch lockable caster wheels; double anti-tilt locking devices
Table tennis tables are a large item, and for people who are looking to get one for their home, they may be too large to fit indoors. Thankfully, there are some outdoor options. The very best of these outdoor ping pong tables is also made by JOOLA, who produce our editor’s pick product, too. The JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table is designed to withstand the conditions of being outdoors and make it possible to have a table that you utilize outdoor space for.
Like the other tables above, this has a playback option so it can be folded into a position where you can practice on your own.
The table coating is designed to be weatherproof, so you can play in a variety of different conditions, or just not have to worry if it starts raining a bit. The wheels and casters have been designed to match too, with JOOLA describing them as ‘all-terrain’. This means you can roll the table to wherever you need to play.
To suit the fact you won’t be playing on flat surfaces all the time, this also has adjustable levers on the legs to level out the table.
Like many of the other table tennis tables features, this folds into an upright position so that it is compact and easier to store in a garage, for instance. This takes a little more effort than some others as it is divided into two separate halves.
What are its best features?
Resistant to weather conditions for playing outside
Casters are designed to be taken anywhere, are rugged and hard-wearing
Assembly only takes 10 minutes as most of this table is pre-assembled when you purchase it
What could be improved?
Can be more difficult to fold up as the two halves are not attached
With its excellent six-millimeter thickness for excellent bounce and great playability, the Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table is a strong option. The resin-laminated surface is engineered to withstand the outdoor elements. The table also comes with the company’s patented MATTOP finish which according to Cornilleau, reduces glare by up to ten percent for less eyestrain and superior vision during sunny days. However, some people think it may slightly change the spin of the ball in severe heat.
Being a crossover table designed for both outdoor and indoor use, the Cornilleau 500M is engineered with a structure that supports the stress of setting up, folding, taking down, and transporting for many years. Supporting the top is a galvanized steel frame connected onto easy-to-set-up folding legs. The table also comes with a retractable net that folds into storage automatically when not in use.
For improved movement and stability when using the table outdoors over varieties of terrains, it comes with super-large wheels. Apart from being large, the wheels are also very tall, and they are installed in pairs to ensure they can bear the weight of the table with increased maneuverability regardless of the terrain. While the table doesn’t come with important things like a cover, balls, or paddles, we still believe it’s worth its weight in gold.
Kettler is a Germany-based company that prides itself on delivering high-quality, durable, innovative, and cost-effective products that are capable of lasting for many years. The company’s Alu-tec aluminum ping pong tables are a ground-breaking technology and a massive advancement in the manufacturing of weather-resistant ping pong equipment. The technology involves the sealing of resin-treated board permanently in aluminum, giving it years of sturdiness, whilst enabling the surface to retain its bounces.
Furthermore, the Kettler Champ 5.0 comes with an anti-glare waterproof aluminum top and also a patented climate control technology underside so that it will be adequately protected from different weather conditions. The table also features a pair of two-inch anti-corrosion galvanized steel legs which resist damages like severe sun rays. The whole equipment can be folded with a unique locking mechanism. The locking mechanism keeps it bolted in storage, during use, and while in motion without being a possible cause of accidents.
It also comes with other accessories like six-inch dual casters for easier mobility and storage, three pieces of balls, outdoor rackets, and a high-quality cover for protection against snow and rain. It also features a five-year warranty which covers replacement and repair. The only factors that may draw prospective buyers back is the expensive price of this product and its heavy weight, which makes it a stationary kind of table rather than portable.
Thanks to its standby features, the Cornilleau Pro 510 is an incredible ping pong table designed specifically for the outdoors. This model is ideal for gyms, resort centers, parks, and the majority of outdoor gaming centers. We don’t advise you to choose this table if the space you have is not large enough to accommodate it. This is because you need to screw a standby table down to wherever you will be using it, in a bid to prevent other people from changing its position.
Furthermore, it features a standby tamper-proof and sturdy steel net that’s also corrosion-resistant to prevent the table from being affected by weather conditions. The table has a seven-millimeter resin laminate top that provides you with the effective bounces you require. In addition, it meets the ITTF standard for table top thickness. It also features a 2.25-inch galvanized steel frame which with its 10X anti-glare, gives you a superior playing surface.
The ping pong table also comes with a durable undercarriage that has storage spaces to keep your rackets there. It also has a four-corner ball holder that accommodates just a single ball. For optimum stability, the legs of the table are bolted down. It also comes with a ten-year warranty, which assures you of its supreme durability. The only drawback this table has is that assembling it takes a lot of time and effort as it has to be done from scratch.
With a stable and sturdy construction designed to enhance your overall gaming experience, the Goplus Foldable Table Tennis Table is one of the best options to look at. This ping pong table under $500 offers two different modes, with one mode allowing you to play alone and another one allowing to play with a partner. Featuring eight smooth wheels, moving and transporting this table is also very easy. Four of them also boast of locking mechanisms, so you are guaranteed optimum stability and safety while playing.
This table has an ultra-thick MDF top surface which is capable of withstanding cold temperature, rainfall, or severe sun heat. Thanks to the sturdy steel frame build and 5/8-inch MDF surface of the ping pong table, it will surely bring you a superior game experience. In addition, with four reinforced legs, the table won’t collapse or wobble easily. Featuring effective safety locks which prevent accidental opening or closing, you don’t need to worry about safety.
When it comes to assembling, setting this ping pong table up is super easy. The only drawback some customers mentioned is that some of its aluminum body fasteners are were not tight enough, which may cause some instability.
Kettler is a company that is renowned for producing high-quality ping pong tables on a steady basis, and they haven’t disappointed with this table. Featuring high-quality, anti-glare, and water-resistant composite table top with an ALU-TEC underside, there is no reason to doubt the longevity of this table. ALU-TEC is Kettler’s patented technology, which coats the board in aluminum so that it will be sturdy enough to resist the adverse effect of different weather conditions.
Furthermore, the ping pong table has two-inch powder-coated galvanized steel legs that are corrosion-resistant. The legs are also capable of withstanding high-impact and intense play since it has a playing surface with genuine tournament bounce for unparalleled performance and quality. Besides, the table can be folded into a playback position if you’re looking to use it for a solo training session. It’s also equipped with safety handles for the prevention of unintended opening or closing.
This outdoor ping pong table is engineered with four swiveling wheels (two of them are lockable), so it’s very easy to move. Moreover, it comes with three balls and two Halo Outdoor rackets, along with a detachable net. The only downside we’ll mention is the difficult assembly. The instruction manual isn’t helpful, and the Youtube video doesn’t show essential parts of the process.
Being the official sponsor of the US table tennis team, it’s not surprising that Joola has produced a product that is as excellent as the Joola Outdoor TR Table. From its legs to its playing surface, everything about this outdoor ping pong table exudes quality. Its 22-millimeter table top gives it an impressive bouncy effect, while a 50-millimeter plastic frame adequately supports and makes it a child-friendly table. Made with a weather-resistant technology, this table is coated against UV radiation, extreme temperature, and frost. It’s the ideal model for outside play.
The top of the table is made of three layers – aluminum, wood, and another aluminum one to offer adequate protection against all sorts of conditions. The table also features a weatherproof netting system and can be transformed for solo play or folded for convenient storage. For added stability, safety, and strength, the table comes with a locking mechanism, and double anti-tilting gadgets reinforced firmly on the four-inch mobility wheels. The leveler on the table can also be adjusted for more balance when playing on a surface that is uneven.
Assembling and setting this ping pong table doesn’t take much time: up to twenty minutes, as the manufacturer promises. The model is suitable for both indoor and outside usage. The storage is just a bit complicated as you have to unscrew the net first. The top of the table is also not scratch resistant, which is the second of the two little flaws on an otherwise perfect product.
What are its best features?
Easy to assemble and set up
Can be transformed for solo game
Weather resistant top
Anti-weather overall construction
Has smooth mobility wheels
Plastic frame is safe for children
What could be improved?
You need to unscrew the net for storage
The top isn’t scratch resistant
Things to Consider
It’s important to know what to look for before shelling your hard-earned money on a particular ping pong table. With that in mind, we have compiled everything you need to know in this section.
Why an outdoor ping pong table is a good investment to make
Improves mental acuity – The ball’s speed, spin, and placement are vital elements in ping pong, and experienced players are often skilled enough to solve issues that involve these three elements.
Develops reflexes – Thanks to the short-distance, fast-paced nature of table tennis, you improve both fine and gross muscle movements while playing the game without even knowing. The game is known by spurts of force and recovery, which leads to quick-twitch muscle development.
Burns calories – A person weighing 150 pounds can shed up to 270 calories in a one-hour table tennis game. Since the sport is addictive, it can be an exciting way of burning calories.
Provides a social outlet – Regardless of where you play, ping pong provides an excellent way of bonding with other people. Since people of all ages can easily participate in the sport, it aids improved communication and even build relationships between the generations. The game can also help united family members and create bonds between relatives as they get to spend some quality time together.
Enhances coordination – Ping pong also serves as a great way to improve coordination. Following the ball as it speedily travels and watching its trajectory as it’s hit by your opponent helps to enhance hand-eye coordination.
Improves balance – In order to be a successful table tennis player, you must learn how to stay balanced and be able to change direction swiftly. You naturally learn all these when playing the game, so it helps to improve balance.
Features to consider while choosing an outdoor ping pong table
One thing beginners must keep in mind when shopping for a suitable table is that it’s very easy to waste money on the wrong product when it comes to ping pong. The tables look very similar, so how exactly do you figure out which one is good for you? Look at the features below!
Dimensions
If the space you have is more than enough, you don’t need to be really worried about the dimensions of the table. However, if your available space is pretty limited, then you must consider the dimensions before choosing a particular table tennis table.
Normally, a regular size table measures 9 feet x 5 feet and needs at least 15 feet x 8 feet clearance to play without feeling constrained. Apart from the dimensions of the table when assembled, however, you also need to look at its dimensions when in a playback position and when folded. Of course, you need to know how compact it folds, so you’ll determine how easy or difficult it will be to transport.
Playfield materials
The materials with which the playing surface is made is also a very important consideration to make as it affects the general quality of your game. While the material in indoor table tops is often enhanced for ball performance, in outdoor tables, the focus is usually on protection and resilience from the elements.
Since outdoor tables are usually engineered to hold up to natural elements, they are usually made with stainless steel or weather-resistant aluminum, melamine coatings, anti-reflective finish, and laminate. Thanks to its weatherproof, anti-corrosion, and light nature, Aluminum composite is probably the most commonly used material on outdoor table tops. Another popular playfield material is resin-treated wood.
Surface thickness
Another key factor to think about is the thickness of the playing surface, which is crucial for table sturdiness and bounce. The thicker the top surface the more bounce it offers and the more weatherproof it is. It also adds to the table’s overall weight and stability. The Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table is one of the thickiest on our list at 0.88 inches.
Legs
The legs of the table also need to be sufficiently strong to give enough support for the ping pong table. They also need to be sturdy and thick so that they can endure the rough treatment they’ll likely be subjected in the outdoors. Since kids tend to be even rougher than adults when using these tables, leg thickness is even more crucial to look at if that is the case.
It’s also nice to look for a product with leg levelers (like the Goplus Foldable Table Tennis Table), which are useful to select the height of the table and adjust the table when playing on an uneven surface.
Portability and storage
Portability is also an important consideration. Since you’re buying this table specifically for the outdoors, then it should be easy to maneuver and transport. Thus, you need to take the general design into consideration, the ball-bearing wheels, and its weight. These features will make sure that you get the best possible outdoor ping pong table that you can maneuver and store easily.
Weight
While some outdoor tables are often standby models that you need to screw down to a permanent spot (like the Cornilleau Pro 510M Outdoor Table), there are some that you may need to move from time to time. Depending on which outdoor table type you’re looking to buy, the weight is also a significant consideration. Provided you want to be moving the table, then you must make sure it’s not excessively heavy so that carrying or transporting it won’t be an issue. In that case, the Cornilleau 400M Crossover Outdoor Table is a great choice.
Net Systems for Outdoor Ping Pong Tables
The net system is an integral part of the table tennis experience. For outdoor tables, the net must be as durable as the table itself.
Selecting Durable and Weather-Resistant Nets
Choose nets made from weather-resistant materials such as polyester or nylon. They should withstand sun exposure, rain, and wind without tearing or losing tension.
Easy-to-Assemble Versus Permanent Net Setups
Some outdoor tables feature permanent net systems, while others offer removable options for easy storage. Consider your usage pattern and preference when deciding between the two.
Of course, there is nothing you should buy without checking its warranty terms. Or what sense does it make to buy something that isn’t trusted by its manufacturer enough?
Community and Social Benefits of Outdoor Ping Pong
Fostering Community Engagement:
Outdoor ping pong tables are more than just a recreational feature; they serve as communal hubs, inviting people from various backgrounds to interact and engage with one another. These tables can turn neighborhoods, schools, and community centers into vibrant social spaces where everyone, regardless of age or skill level, is welcome.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
Ping pong’s accessibility is one of its greatest appeals. The sport is inclusive, catering to a diverse range of people and promoting a sense of unity within communities. By installing tables in public areas, communities endorse an inclusive recreational option, open to all.
Health and Fitness Benefits:
Playing ping pong outdoors isn’t just fun; it’s also beneficial for physical health. It improves coordination, reflexes, and provides a moderate workout, enhancing cardiovascular health. The added benefit of fresh air and sunlight enriches these health benefits.
Mental Health and Social Interaction:
Engaging in outdoor ping pong can be a potent stress reliever and a way to enhance mental well-being. It fosters social interaction, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness or isolation, and contributes positively to the mental health of community members.
Enhancing Public Spaces:
Outdoor ping pong tables can rejuvenate underused public spaces, turning them into active, engaging areas. They bring value to parks and urban areas, making them more inviting and dynamic.
Encouraging Outdoor Activities:
In a digital age, outdoor ping pong tables offer a compelling reason for people, especially younger individuals, to engage in physical activities outdoors, promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Safety Features in Outdoor Ping Pong Tables
Durable and Sturdy Construction:
Safety in outdoor ping pong begins with strong construction. A well-built, stable table is essential to prevent accidents like tipping or collapsing, ensuring a safe experience for all players.
Safe Folding Mechanisms:
For foldable tables, the incorporation of safety hinges and locks is critical. These features prevent unexpected collapses during setup or storage, significantly reducing injury risks.
Rounded Corners and Edges:
Outdoor ping pong tables should feature rounded corners and smooth edges to avoid injuries, especially in areas where children are present. This design is key to preventing accidents.
Anti-Glare Surface:
An anti-glare surface on the table is crucial for player safety, ensuring that players aren’t blinded by sun reflections, which could lead to accidents.
Adequate Weight and Anchoring:
The weight of outdoor tables is important to prevent them from being easily toppled. In some cases, anchoring the table to the ground might be necessary to ensure stability.
Weather-Resistant Materials:
Using materials that resist warping, rust, and fading not only prolongs the table’s lifespan but also ensures it remains safe to use over time, free from weakened parts that could be hazardous.
Non-Toxic Materials and Coatings:
Ensuring that the construction materials and coatings are non-toxic is essential for the safety of all users, particularly children and pets who may come into contact with the table.
Extra features
Accessories add extra value to any outdoor table. Does the table come with balls and paddles or you have to buy them separately? You also need to check if the table has an inbuilt ball dispenser and holders where you can easily keep your gear. Some other extras you need to look out for is if the table is wheelchair-friendly and if it’s made with a sturdy frame.
In terms of safety, there are some things you may look for in order to determine a safety-oriented ping pong table. The first one is the safety lock system, which helps lock the table while playing. Another one is a wheel lock, which, when used, will prevent the table from moving.
How to prolong your outdoor pin pong table’s life
If you’re looking to enjoy your table for many years, then you’ve got to maintain it very well. Below are some maintenance tips that could help prolong the life of your outdoor ping pong table.
Always wipe down the playing surface of the table
Always keep the playing surface of the table clean by using a soft, microfiber cloth after every use. The cloth will eliminate the moisture and minor dust particles from the table, therefore keeping the playing surface in optimum condition at all times.
Mix a gentle cleaner with water and apply it on the top surface
If you only use your table sparingly, it’s necessary to apply something stronger than water regularly. If the table is regularly used, however, adding a gentle, non-harmful cleaner along with water will clean your table more thoroughly. When doing this, make sure you’re using a small amount of the cleaner solution as the finish on the top of your table may be delicate. By using a small amount, you will prevent the surface of the table from getting damaged. Maximally, you should only do this once per month.
Wash the net of the table
If your table tennis table is used regularly, the net should be removed and washed regularly. This should be done by hand while using slightly warm water and a small amount of detergent. Some ping pong table owners have been known to wash the table tennis table net by using a washing machine, but that’s often too harsh and will lessen the lifespan of the ping pong net.
When washing the table tennis net by hand, let the net soak for between 30 minutes to 1 hour to ensure a thorough cleaning. After the table tennis net has soaked, remove it from the water and let it air dry before reapplying the net to the ping pong table.
Lubricate the metal parts of the table that fold or bend
People who own ping pong tables also need to apply a gentle lubricant to the metal parts of the table that fold or bend. Doing this will ensure your table is able to properly fold for a lot of years. This is especially important for storage purposes, especially if the table needs to be folded for storage regularly. It’s also vital for people who love playing or practicing solo as the playback feature of ping pong tables involves folding.
Generally, assembling a ping pong table is not difficult. Most companies often include manuals that contain everything you need to do for the assembly, so it’s rarely hard to do.
While we know that there are some outdoor tables that can’t withstand the elements, they are not real outdoor models in our opinion. You shouldn’t have to remove a real outdoor table after every use as it should be rugged enough to hold up against the elements like rain and severe sunlight. Some models like the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table and the JOOLA Outdoor TR Table Tennis Table are designed to be weather-resistant.
Wrapping It Up
For its incredible stability, great safety features, excellent bounce, and general playability, the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table is the best outdoor ping pong table on the market. Apart from being expensive, there are not many shortcomings you’ll find on this table.