Indoor Vs Outdoor Ping Pong Tables

Indoor Vs Outdoor Ping Pong Tables

Posted by Tiger PingPong on 15th Feb 2014

Table tennis tables are available in many different variations, 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 type of table and the right weather conditions.

So which is 'better'? Indoor or outdoor ping pong tables?

There are benefits to both indoor and outdoor ping pong tables! Choosing the best table tennis table for you is what we hope to uncover in this article.

INDOOR TABLE TENNIS TABLES

Unless you need a table solely for outdoor use, we recommend that you buy an indoor table rather than an outdoor table tennis table.

Indoor table tennis tables have a much better playing surface than tables designed for outdoor use. More importantly, if you want to play competitively, other venues will use indoor table tennis tables. Therefore, with an indoor table, you'll be more accustomed to other playing

Dark coloured ping pong table in an indoor setting.

USING INDOOR TABLE TENNIS TABLES OUTDOORS

Some indoor table tennis tables can be used outdoors for short periods of time, but you'll need to move them back inside after you've finished playing. WE DON'T ADVISE THIS! If you leave your indoor table in direct sunlight even for just a short period of time, it could warp.

You'll also need a table robust enough to withstand any gusts of wind, and cheaper models may not be sturdy enough to be taken outdoors.

Additionally, if you want to play table tennis outdoors, you'll need calm, dry weather. Windy conditions will cause debris to be blown onto the table's surface, which can impede the bounce of the ball.

STORING INDOOR TABLE TENNIS TABLES

Selecting the right room for your table is important. You'll need to consider the size of the room and other conditions too. Indoor tables need to be kept at room temperature, and need to be kept from extreme temperature variations to prevent warping, and to protect the top surface from coming apart.

So if you're intending to keep an indoor table tennis table in a garage or other storage area which isn't consistently at room temperature, be aware that it could be damaged. You may need to consider buying an outdoor table tennis table instead.

OUTDOOR TABLE TENNIS TABLES

If you need a table tennis table that will be left outside permanently, you'll need to ensure that it's designed specifically for outdoor use. The best outdoor ping pong table offers flexibility, as they can be used inside and out, because they are constructed differently.

A cheaper exterior ping pong table is often made of aluminum, melamine, plywood resin or other types of resin to help them withstand the outdoors.

The best outdoor table tennis tables are made from galvanized steel undercarriages, with weatherproof nets and posts, and a weatherproof top surface. Outdoor tables are also usually the best ping pong table for garage storage.

A ping pong table in an outdoor setting with grass and trees in the background.

STORING OUTDOOR TABLES

If you plan to store your table tennis table in a garage that is not completely dry or a room that gets very hot or lacks shade, then an outdoor table may be more suitable.

Outdoor tables usually have thinner top surfaces than indoor tables, which help to maneuver them more easily.

Outdoor tables do not perform to the same standard as a top-end indoor competition table; however, the complete freedom of storage and usage balances out performance issues, particularly for those interested in casual play.

In general, when you find a ping pong table for sale, the more you pay for an outdoor table tennis table, the better you can expect the water and rust-proofing to be, and the legs will be stronger as well.