What Is a Table Tennis Table?
Table tennis, also known as ping-pong, is a sport in which two players hit a light, hollow ball back and forth using small bats. The game takes place on a hard table divided by a net. Table tennis tables are specially designed for the sport, and come in many different varieties, but all have the same basic measurements.
Standard Table Tennis Table Dimensions
Table tennis tables come in different sizes, however, the official size for international tournaments is the same for all. According to the International Table Tennis Federation, or ITTF, the standard table tennis table size is:
- Length: 9 feet, or 2.74 meters
- Width: 5 feet, or 1.525 meters
- Height: 2.5 feet, or 76 cm
The standard table tennis table size is the same whether you are playing singles or doubles. It is also the same size for both adults and children, although some tables may be smaller or larger than the standard size.
Table Tennis Table Measurements
In addition to the length, width, and height of a table tennis table, there are also other measurements to consider.
Net Height
The net should be 6 inches, or 15.2 cm, high in the center and taper down to 5 inches, or 12.7 cm, at the posts. The posts should be set two inches, or 5 cm, inside the edge of the table.
Table Top Thickness
The table top should be 1/2 inch, or 12mm, thick. The surface should also be level and free of any bumps or dips.
Table Edge
The edges of the table, including the sides and ends, should all be two inches, or 5 cm, wide.
Table Legs
The table should have four legs that are at least 2.5 inches, or 6.35 cm, wide. The legs should be strong enough to hold the weight of the table, and the feet should be adjustable to level the table.
Table Color
Table tennis tables come in a variety of colors, but the official color for international tournaments is green.
Mini Table Tennis Table Dimensions
Mini table tennis tables are becoming increasingly popular, as they are smaller and more affordable than standard size tables. Mini tables are perfect for smaller spaces, such as apartments, and are also great for younger players.
The dimensions of mini table tennis tables vary, but the most common size is:
- Length: 6 feet, or 1.83 meters
- Width: 3 feet, or 0.914 meters
- Height: 2.5 feet, or 76 cm
The net height and other measurements are the same as for a standard size table.
Table Tennis Table Weight
The weight of a table tennis table depends on the size and material. Standard size tables can weigh anywhere from 60 to 100 pounds, or 27 to 45 kg. Mini tables are usually much lighter, and can weigh as little as 25 pounds, or 11 kg.
Folding Table Tennis Table Dimensions
Folding table tennis tables are becoming increasingly popular, as they are easy to transport and store. When folded, the dimensions of a folding table tennis table are usually:
- Length: 2 feet, or 0.61 meters
- Width: 1 foot, or 0.30 meters
- Height: 4 inches, or 10 cm
The weight of a folding table is also much lighter than a standard size table, usually between 25 and 40 pounds, or 11 to 18 kg.
Outdoor Table Tennis Table Dimensions
Outdoor table tennis tables are designed to be used in outdoor environments, such as parks and patios. These tables are usually larger and heavier than indoor tables, and are usually made from weather-resistant materials. The dimensions of an outdoor table tennis table are usually:
- Length: 9 feet, or 2.74 meters
- Width: 5 feet, or 1.525 meters
- Height: 2.5 feet, or 76 cm
The net height and other measurements are the same as for indoor tables. Outdoor tables can weigh anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds, or 45 to 90 kg.
Conclusion
Table tennis tables come in a variety of sizes and styles, but all follow the same basic measurements. Standard size tables are 9 feet long and 5 feet wide, while mini tables are 6 feet long and 3 feet wide. Folding tables are much smaller, at 2 feet long and 1 foot wide. Outdoor tables are the same size as indoor tables, but are usually heavier and made from weather-resistant materials. No matter the size or style, table tennis tables are an integral part of the game.