If you are into ping pong and it is turning into a hobby along with your family and friends, you might want to invest in a ping pong table of your own. By having your own ping pong table, you will be able to practice as much as you want and also play with your family and friends in the comfort of your own home.
When choosing a ping pong table, the first thing that you need to know is that you shouldn't believe the hype. You will see that there are quite a lot of manufacturers that claim a lot of things with their tables at a very expensive price. If you are just playing ping pong as a hobby or for recreational purposes, try to go for low end models.
As a first time buyer, again, go for the low end models. You don't need to get an expensive ping pong table if you and your family are just learning the ropes on ping pong. If you or your family decide to become serious about the sport and join competitions, then this may be the right time to buy another table that is in the middle range.
If you plan on moving the table to make room, then you will want a ping pong table that can be folded and is included with rollers and brakes. This will make it easy for you to store your ping pong table or make more room inside your home when the table isn't in use.
The thickness of the table is very important as it can affect the bounce of the ball. Basically, the recommended table thickness is 25mm or one inch. If you compete on official tournaments frequently, you may want to get the 25mm thick ping pong table as this kind of table is what is commonly used in competitions.
The legs of the ping pong table are also very important. Make sure that it is strong enough that it can withstand years of punishment. Look for one with leg levelers as this can be very useful in leveling the table when you are playing on uneven ground.
The brand isn't that important. But if you are a serious ping pong player, you may want to go for well known brands that are commonly used in tournaments.
Lastly, you may want to look for a table that is level. Look for any warping or bending by putting your eye at table level. The surface should also be smooth. These things can significantly affect the way the ball bounces. Uneven bounces can be quite frustrating.
These are the things that you need to know about ping pong tables. By knowing what to look for, you will be able to know what table is best for you. Always remember that expensive isn't always the way to go. Look for what you need and not for what you want.