Ping pong, also known as table tennis, is a very popular game throughout the world, played by millions of people in any given year.
The game originally started as a strictly indoor pursuit—an alternative to regular lawn tennis that could be played when the weather was not cooperating.
In this day and age, however, it is now possible to move the popular game of ping pong—and the table it is played on—into the great outdoors, thanks to design changes and pressure from the tennis table-playing public that wanted to play the game in an airy outdoor environment.
If playing ping pong outdoors sounds appealing, we have good news, as there are now many manufacturers producing outdoor-ready tables.
Below we have reviewed several of the most popular and best outdoor ping pong table options, and highlight the pros and cons associated with each table.
We have also included two additional sections, the first being an Outdoor Ping Pong Table Buying Guide, in which we will discuss some of the factors and features you should consider when buying tables of this kind; and the second one focusing on some of the most frequently asked questions people have about outdoor ping pong tables—and the answers to those questions.
Best Budget Outdoor Ping Pong Table
JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Waterproof Net Set
Pros
- Anti-tilt locks. The dual anti-tilt locking system on the JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Waterproof Net Set allows for simple mobility and storage.
- Waterproof. Even the net on this great table tennis table set is waterproof, while also being resistant to sun damage.
Cons
- No paddles or balls included. Even though the JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Waterproof Net Set is called a “set,” it does not include the ping pong paddles and table tennis balls.
If you are looking for an outdoor table you can truly trust that also fits nicely into your recreation budget, look no further than the JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Waterproof Net Set.
Made by a company that has been trusted for six decades to produce the finest table tennis tables and equipment, this outdoor table is truly a champ.
It features a durable 6 millimeter top that is made from the finest aluminum plastic composite—materials that will resist damage from the sun and rain.
Resistant to both warping and chipping, the long lasting table promises you years of outdoor ping pong fun with friends and family.
Also durable on the JOOLA NOVA Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Waterproof Net Set is the waterproof net and the frame underneath the table that gives it its amazing stability.
The steel frame is powder coated to resist rust and corrosion; and the net snaps in easily with the help of the Joola fast-clamp system.
Right out of the box, the table comes 95 percent assembled.
The legs bolt in easily with the help of 8 (included) bolts and once the wheels are guided into place you are ready to play.
Each half of the table is supported by a 4-wheel trolley system that makes moving the table a breeze; and because it features automatic anti-tilting locks, the front half of the table can be placed vertical into the playback position.
Best Premium Outdoor Ping Pong Table
Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table
Pros
- Double wheels. The double lockable wheels on the Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table, measuring nearly 8 inches, have notched tread that allows them to easily traverse any outdoor or indoor floor or landscape.
- Anti-glare. The 10x anti-glare coating on the Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table will quite simply allow players to pick up the ball much easier on bright sunny days.
Cons
- Premium priced. There certainly is not much to dislike about the Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table, but you will need to pay for the pleasure of enjoying it.
Our best premium ping pong table goes to the Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table—a table that must be seen to fully appreciate.
The table is not only made from one of the best 7 millimeter laminate surfaces, it also cuts down on one of the biggest problems associated with outdoor ping pong play: glare.
That’s because this table is treated for glare reduction and is said to cut the glare by as much ten times that of other tables.
Another thing to like about this table is the consistent bounces it provides, allowing competitive players to use this table as an acceptable training surface.
The Cornilleau 500M Crossover Outdoor Table is both weatherproof and incredibly durable.
The galvanized steel frame is supported by four thick steel legs, all of which are powder coated in the factory to resist rust, corrosion and even sun damage.
One of the best features of this amazing table is its adjustability, with adjustable legs that allow it to be wheelchair friendly, opening up play to people who would otherwise be left out.
The independently folding halves of the table come up easily and lock into place for quick and easy storage, and players can even fold it into the playback position to practice their skills without a partner.
Large double wheels with notched tread, measuring nearly 8 inches in total, make transporting and moving this unit a cinch; and the friendly customer service agents who back this product are always just a phone call away.
Best All-Round Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle
Pros
- Complete Bundle. Unlike some table tennis tables, which merely include the table and the net, the Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle comes with ping pong rackets and balls, as well as a premium tarp to cover the table—a table that matches the exact dimensions of the table.
- Strong Legs and Apron. Unlike other tables, which merely boast 1.25 inch legs, the steel legs on the Kettler ping pong table measure 2 inches and are further supported by a 2.25 inch apron.
Cons
- Not for the Budget Consumer. A very competitive table, the Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle may be too much for the budget conscious consumer.
For the best all-around table we have chosen the Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle—and for good reason.
Not only does this table boast a waterproof, all-weather design, with a “non-glare aluminum top,” it also includes an ALU-TEC climate controlled underside for keeping the table cool and at a stable temperature to resist warping.
The regulation-sized table is sure to be the talk of the neighborhood, and with its durable construction you can be sure that this table will be around for a long, long time.
Made by some of the best German craftsmen, the Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle is incredibly stable.
It owes this stability in part to the strong, 2-inch powder-coated, galvanized steel table legs that resist rust and corrosion.
To add to its sturdiness, the table is equipped with a 2.25-inch apron—a resin apron that also prevents table warp while keeping each side of the table strong and stable.
The German engineering of this table includes a proprietary locking mechanism that makes the table incredibly safe, as it prevents it from accidentally opening or closing.
This locking mechanism also allows for solo practice as the table can be folded into the popular playback position.
Those who purchase the Kettler Champ 5.0 Outdoor Table Tennis Table with Outdoor Accessory Bundle will get a lot of bang for their buck, including the durable table, waterproof net with posts, 2 Kettler Halo 5.0 table tennis rackets, 3 high-quality All-star ping pong balls and a premium Kettler cover to keep the table safe and protected all year round.
Other Top Outdoor Ping Pong Tables We Recommend
Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table
Pros
- Locking wheels. The locking wheels on the Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table not only are invaluable when moving the table, but the lockable function eliminates the need to remove the wheels when playing.
- Easy assembly. According to reviewers, this is one of the easiest ping pong tables to assemble.
Cons
- Issues with stability. Because the Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table does not include leg or floor levelers, the stability of the table is not all that great.
An excellent table for those looking to play the game outdoors, the Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table is a great buy for the money spent.
Like many of the products we have reviewed here, the table boasts an aluminum tabletop that allows it to stand up to even the toughest of weather conditions, and the steel legs and powder coated undercarriage do a great job of supporting it.
Very portable and compact, the ping pong table boats easy lockable and unlockable wheels that offer both strength and transportability.
Independent halves allow it to be folded into the playback position, and when it’s time to store your table it folds up nicely into the vertical position and can be wheeled rapidly to its storage destination.
Thanks to the clearly marked service and back lines on the Harvil Outsider Table Tennis Table it’s hard to miss a shot.
Moreover, each side boasts a sturdy net post with a quick-clamp system for attaching the net (included).
According to the company, the game is ready to play just 10 minutes out of the box—just attach the wheels, fold down the table and attach the high-quality net.
What could be simpler.
Best of all, your table and net are protected by a great warranty should you not be happy with any aspect of your purchase.
STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table
Pros
- Strong tabletop. The aluminum and composite construction of the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table makes it very strong and impervious to the elements.
- Easy to store. When in the folded-up position, the table does not have a very big footprint whatsoever.
Cons
- Net quality. Some have complained that the net quality on the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table is not what it could be.
A mid-priced unit with a huge upside, the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table boasts an all-weather tabletop that can truly stand up to the elements, including the blinding heat of the summer sun and the crisp winds and rains of the winter months.
Regardless of the weather conditions, this ping pong table is always ready for action.
Designed to last, with an aluminum and composite construction, not only does this table offer the best in table tennis performance, it can also stand up to common problems, with the ability to resist rust, corrosion, warping and sun damage.
Perfect for the patio or garage, the STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table is nearly ready to use right out of the box.
The only assembly required is the 6-foot net, which quickly clamps into place via the patented Stiga locking system.
The self-opening and self-closing legs mean that the table is easy to setup and even easier to fold up when it comes time to store it.
The ping pong table is very stable and sturdy, thanks to the 1.25-inch steel legs with a welded cross brace.
The rubber leg levelers only add to this stability, ensuring you are always playing on the flattest and most even surface.
When it’s time to move your STIGA XTR Outdoor Table Tennis Table you’ll be glad it is equipped with 4 three-inch caster wheels that lock into place.
This locking mechanism ensures the table is very steady during game play.
Perhaps best of all, the table has independent-bending halves.
This allows you to fold the table into the playback position for quality practice without a partner, or to use one of the halves as a multi-use table for crafts and other activities.
The table essentially has three positions: the play position that you are accustomed to; the playback position, in which the forward half is bent upright; and the storage position, in which both halves are in the vertical position, thus allowing the table to be stored easily in any garage or closet.
Outdoor Ping Pong Table Buying Guide
If you are thinking about purchasing an outdoor table tennis table there are several factors and features you should definitely consider.
To help make this process a bit easier for you, here we have listed and explained some of these important considerations.
Size/Dimensions
Like indoor ping pong tables, outdoor ping pong tables come in a variety of sizes.
Typically, this size difference is the product of different lengths.
Many companies make outdoor ping pong tables that are shorter than the standard dimensions, as some customers simply do not have the space for a regulation-size table.
However, if you want to make sure you are getting a table with tournament-ready dimensions, you will need to make sure the table you purchase has the following measurements: The standard ping-pong table has a playing surface that measures 9 feet long by 5 feet wide.
The top of the table needs to be 30 inches from the floor, and the net you purchase should be 6-feet long and 6 inches in height.
Materials
Most indoor table tennis tables are wood, which is to say the tabletop itself is made from some type of wood material.
However, if you are shopping for an outdoor ping pong table, you should steer clear of wood tabletops.
Why? Because wood can warp and become damaged when left out in the elements.
Instead you should look for a tabletop that is made from aluminum, plastic composite, or a combination of the two materials.
These are what the best outdoor table tennis tables tend to be built from.
The materials will resist damage caused by rain, sun and wind, preserving your tabletop for much longer.
As for the legs and undercarriage (frame) of the ping pong table, most of the time these are made from tough steel for durability—this is true of both outdoor and indoor tables.
However, if purchasing an outdoor ping pong table, you will need to make sure that the steel has been powder coated.
This will help it to resist rust and corrosion caused by water and sunlight.
Weight
Believe it or not, outdoor ping pong tables typically weigh considerably less than their indoor counterparts.
The reason?
Well, instead of being made from plywood and MDF, which are both very heavy, the tabletops are made from lighter aluminum and plastic composite materials.
Of course, you should still select a frame with a sturdy steel undercarriage and steel legs—legs that measure at least 1.25 inches, which will add to the overall weight of the unit.
Mobility
The ability to easily move your outdoor ping pong table is paramount, and because these tables are typically too heavy to lift, you will need to rely on the table’s wheels.
Look for tables that have at least 4 wheels, all of which must measure at least 3 inches in diameter.
Avoid wheels that are made from cheap plastic, and opt instead for tough rubber materials.
If possible, choose wheels with a notched tread that allows them to roll over various terrains.
The wheels must also be lockable, with the ability to lock them into place when playing the game or storing the table.
Independent Folding
The better outdoor ping pong tables on the market should all have table halves that fold independently of the other.
Not only does this make it easier to fold the table up into the storage position, it also allows for the all-popular playback position, in which the front half of the table is vertical and back half is horizontal, thus allowing players to practice on their own.
Just make sure there is a locking mechanism to lock the two halves into place when the table is in the storage position, as this will prevent accidental opening that could possibly lead to injury.
Stability
There are many things that make an outdoor table more stable when in the “play” position.
These includes larger legs, an apron on the sides of the tables, and rubber floor levelers that ensure the table is always perfectly on flat, even ground.
Accessories
Last but not least, let’s talk about accessories.
Most outdoor ping pong tables come with the center net, but the quality of that net is not always high, so be sure to read some reviews as it applies to this accessory.
Some table tennis sets also come with ping pong rackets and balls—a nice touch if you do not already possess those items.
Outdoor Ping Pong Table Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this final section, we are going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to outdoor ping pong tables.
What’s the Difference Between an Indoor and Outdoor Ping Pong Table?
The primary difference between an indoor and outdoor ping pong table is the tabletop surface.
Indoor ping pong tables usually have tabletops that are made from wood materials, such as plywood or MDF.
Conversely, outdoor ping pong tables are usually made from aluminum, plastic composite or a combination of the two.
These surfaces resist the weather much better than wood, preventing the table from warping or getting sun damage.
Can I Use My Outdoor Ping Pong Table Indoors?
Yes.
One of the great things about an outdoor table is it can actually be setup almost anywhere.
Keep in mind that the bounces may be different on this type of table, so if you are training for an indoor competition, it’s better to practice on an indoor table.
Can I Use My Indoor Ping Pong Table Outdoors?
No.
Or at least it is not recommended.
Leaving an indoor table outdoors for any significant amount of time could damage the wood on the tabletop and leave the undercarriage and legs subject to rust and corrosion.
Do All Outdoor Ping Pong Tables Offer the Playback Position?
No.
Only those tables that have “independently folding halves” can be folded into the playback position.
What Are the Standard Dimensions of an Outdoor Ping Pong Table?
The standard dimensions of an outdoor ping pong table are 9 feet in length by 5 feet in width by 30 inches in height.
Also, the length of the net is 6 feet and the height of the net is generally 6 inches.
Why Are Some Outdoor Ping Pong Tables Priced Higher than Others?
There are many reasons for the often huge disparity in outdoor ping pong table prices.
Naturally, the types of materials used and the craftsmanship of the tables have a lot to do with the price.
Very expensive tables usually offer a lot of extra features, such as leg levelers, dual wheels, independently folding halves and side aprons, as well as extra accessories like paddles and balls.
If you are in the market for the best outdoor ping pong table for the money, your best bet is to read several reviews and select the one that offers the most attractive features for you, your family and your budget.