How to choose the right table tennis table for you?
Which table tennis table suits your playing style?
There is a table tennis table to suit every kind of use. Broadly speaking, there are three categories - recreational use, table tennis in a club setting, and table tennis in public places such as parks, camp sites and other group settings. We've put together a few guidelines to help you choose a table tennis table for recreational use, which is by far the most common type. If that's not what you're looking for, please check out our competition table tennis tables here and our table tennis tables for group use here.
Outdoor or indoor table tennis table - which is right for you?
Indoors, outdoors, or both? Our indoor and outdoor table tennis tables correspond to a different design philosophy. The big difference between them is the material used for the playing surface. Indoor table tennis tables have a chipboard table top while outdoor table tennis tables are made of core laminate, also called HPL (High Pressure Laminate).
Indoor table tennis tables are not built to withstand impacts or poor weather conditions, so they must not be used outdoors, unless you go to great lengths to protect them. Outdoor table tennis tables are much more resilient and can be used either indoors or outdoors. They are recommended for indoor use too, especially if you think they might have to withstand a few knocks and bumps over the years.
Why choose an outdoor table tennis table?
For outdoor table tennis, of course, but not just that. Designed to withstand poor weather conditions and impacts, outdoor table tennis tables are much more resilient. The core laminate table top is exceptionally resilient. Rain, snow, racket impacts - it stays the same whatever you throw at it. The other materials used in the design of these outdoor table tennis tables are also ultra-durable. Examples include the steel parts covered with anti-corrosion coating, and even the tiniest parts.
So it's no accident that all Cornilleau outdoor table tennis tables have a 10-year guarantee, and are enthusiastically recommended by almost 90% of table tennis players. These table tennis tables are also equipped with oversize double wheels so they can be moved around easily on a broad range of surfaces. Their feet have also been designed to adapt to bumpy or sloping surfaces, so that your table tennis table is stable no matter what. For those looking for an outdoor table that blends into their décor, Cornilleau's Play-Style design table tennis tables also convert into a dining table.
The benefits of an indoor table tennis table
Indoor table tennis tables, with their chipboard table top, offer excellent rebound quality at an affordable price. You should never expose them to poor weather because sunlight, extreme heat and especially humidity can cause the playing surface to blister or even become warped, which is fatal in terms of rebound quality. Indoor table tennis tables are also much less resistant - a racket hitting the playing surface will leave a mark. That's why many players opt for an outdoor table tennis table even if they plan to play indoors. Indoor table tennis tables have a 3-year guarantee (compared with 10 years for outdoor table tennis tables).
The key criteria for choosing your table tennis table
Table tennis is a sport anyone can have a go at. When it comes to choosing the right table tennis table, there are many types of players. That said, all Cornilleau table tennis tables share a set of core characteristics - durability, safety, ergonomics and playing experience. Cornilleau table tennis tables are made in France, in Bonneuil-les-Eaux in the Oise département, in the same place as they are designed, prototyped and tested by our Research and Development department. Because we have full control over the entire production process, your ultimate playing experience is guaranteed 100% best-in-class.
Playing experience
Rebound
Rebound quality is the major component of the playing experience, along with spin response. The thickness of the playing surface has a direct influence on the height - and therefore the quality - of the rebound. We believe that all players deserve very good rebound quality. For some seasoned players, the thickness of the playing surface is a major criterion. So for those players, who often play in a club setting, and for everyone who loves the rebound quality offered by chipboard table tops, Cornilleau outdoor table tennis tables have a core laminate playing surface with thicknesses of up to 8mm for the 700X, providing a rebound quality comparable to that of a competition table tennis table. Another component with a key role is the frame. The frame is the part that surrounds the playing surface. It supports the panel and allows it to remain perfectly flat over time. The thicker it is, the stronger the hold on the playing surface.
Tables certified by the French Table Tennis Federation (FFTT)
When you opt for a Cornilleau table tennis table, you acquire a table that is approved by an organization with notoriously high standards, especially with regard to playing experience - the FFTT. As a partner of the FFTT for over 30 years, Cornilleau has requested and obtained the Federation's approval for all its table tennis tables. Look out for two types of certification - one for recreational tables and the other for competition tables.
To play without being dazzled, opt for an anti-reflective coating
For the best possible open-air playing experience, we advise you to look very closely at the type of coating applied to your table's playing surface. Cornilleau outdoor tables have been given anti-glare coating to make sure players are never blinded by the sun's rays. There are two types of coating, depending on the model. The Mattop finish applied to tables in the Performance range absorbs the intensity of the sun's rays and reduces their glare tenfold. The Softmat finish applied to tables in the Sport range reduces glare threefold.
Safety
European standard EN 14468 lays down the rules to be applied to guarantee a table is safe in both the playing position and the storage position. It also stipulates the characteristics of the locking system and wheels. Cornilleau made the decision to go way above the standard requirements, based on several innovations. As a result, most Cornilleau table tennis tables have 16 locking points rather than the 8 points required by the standard. This system offers a host of advantages, such as its ability to block the table at a 65-degree angle if the handle is no longer held while it is unfolding, to prevent it from crashing down.
Table tennis table dimensions - a key factor before you buy
A full-size table tennis table measures 274 cm long, 152.5 cm wide and 76 cm high. To play comfortably, it is recommended to allow a total space of at least 5 metres in length and 3 metres in width around the table. If space is limited, Cornilleau also offers smaller table tennis tables designed for indoor use and younger players.
Durability
Given their volume and cost, table tennis tables are not intended to be replaced frequently. Although all our outdoor table tennis tables have a 10-year guarantee as standard, we often receive messages from Cornilleau table tennis table owners referring to models they've had in their yard for much longer than that. Often, a Cornilleau table tennis table will be handed down from generation to generation. By guaranteeing the availability of replacement parts for at least 20 years, we do our bit to help you keep your table tennis table for as long as possible. To avoid any problems, make sure you read through the guarantees covering your table tennis table, which give you an idea of its lifespan.
Stability and maneuverability
Table tennis tables need to be perfectly stable while you play, and the same goes for the storage position. A model with brakes therefore has a clear advantage in terms of stability, compared with a model without brakes. Once unfolded, brakes are not the only feature that helps a table stay put. Legs also play an important role. We all know how easy it is to bang into the table while playing, when you’re totally focused on winning the point. Tables with thicker legs are less likely to move in this type of situation, compared with tables that have thinner legs and a narrower structure.
So that you can move your table tennis table to the spot where you want to play, or to its storage location, it needs to be easy to handle and capable of being wheeled over uneven surfaces, or overcoming obstacles if need be. That's why Cornilleau outdoor table tennis tables have oversize double wheels that offer unrivaled maneuverability. Some models such as the 600X and 700X have an easy track handle that helps you lift them up steps and over other small obstacles.
Features
Features serve a range of purposes - some greatly improve the ergonomics of your table, while others make for easier playing or add a touch of fun. Whatever the case, make sure you consider a table's features before making your choice.
Feet adjustment
Some tables require you to lift the foot slightly when adjusting the height. Repeating this operation several times in a row, for each foot, can be a bit of a pain. That's why Cornilleau has developed a simpler adjustment system. The dial to be turned is not in direct contact with the ground, so there is no need to lift the foot up. No effort required!
Net adjustment: tension or tension + height
Depending on the model, you can adjust the tension of the net or both the tension and the height. These two adjustments result in an even higher degree of precision, and once adjusted, your net will stay in place for longer.
Unlocking handle
The models that are equipped with a central locking and unlocking system have a handle for unfolding the table. Because we’ve positioned the handle closer to the table edge, it is now easier to access and simpler to use, especially when folding your table up again.
Point counters
The 300X, 400X, 500X, 600X and 700X recreational outdoor tables are now equipped with point counters. To challenge yourself, or just for fun, they can be folded out or tucked away as you like.
Cup holders
It’s always great to have a drink to hand while playing table tennis, but leaving a glass, can or bottle near a table can be risky. Opt for a table with a bottle holder, so you never have to worry about knocking your drink over, and you always have a drink to hand when you get thirsty. They are included as standard on the 600X and 700X models.
Storage features
Storage features can prove very useful for holding rackets and balls, and when you need somewhere to leave the contents of your pockets. The size of storage features varies depending on the model. Some models even have ball dispensers for storage and to make sure you have balls to hand during a game.
Protective corners
Who has never hit their hip on a ping table, especially during a turn? To make this experience as painless as possible, the tables in the Performance range are equipped with protective corners. This is the best way to smooth things over.
Design
A table tennis table might stay in your yard for 10, 20 or 30 years, so its appearance is another factor to consider when making your choice. With this in mind, our table designers took special care to create stylish tables that look good. Whether you prefer fine or bolder lines, there is a table to suit all tastes.
[FAQ] Frequently asked questions about table tennis tables
What size is a standard table tennis table?
A regulation table tennis table measures 274 cm long, 152.5 cm wide and 76 cm high. These dimensions are set by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and apply to both competition tables and full-size recreational table tennis tables.
How much does a table tennis table cost?
The price of a table tennis table depends on the type and specification. An entry-level indoor table tennis table starts from around £200, while a premium outdoor table tennis table with a 10-year guarantee can exceed £1,000. Cornilleau offers table tennis tables across a range of price points - from leisure to competition, there is a table tennis table to suit every budget.
Can you use an outdoor table tennis table indoors?
Yes. An outdoor table tennis table can be used perfectly well indoors. Its core laminate playing surface (HPL) delivers excellent rebound quality and its robust build makes it suitable for any environment. In fact, many players choose an outdoor table tennis table even when they plan to play exclusively indoors.
Which table tennis table is best for beginners?
For beginners, a mid-range outdoor table tennis table is often the best choice. It offers an excellent balance of quality and durability and can be used both indoors and outdoors. There is no need to invest in a competition table tennis table for recreational family use. The key factors are a stable frame, good rebound quality, and easy folding and storage.
What accessories do you need to play table tennis?
To play table tennis, you need at minimum two table tennis bats and a set of table tennis balls. The quality of your bat has a real impact on your enjoyment of the game, even as a beginner. Cornilleau offers a full range of table tennis bats and balls for all levels, from first-timers to competition players.
What guarantee do Cornilleau table tennis tables come with?
Cornilleau outdoor table tennis tables come with a 10-year guarantee and indoor table tennis tables come with a 3-year guarantee. This guarantee covers manufacturing defects and reflects the quality of the materials and construction. It is one of the longest guarantees available on the market for a table tennis table.
