Are you looking for the best ping pong tables under $500? You’ve come to the right place.
The list below contains the best Ping Pong tables under $500 in the market. We’ve also included tables that are slightly above the $500 price point, for those readers who are willing to spend a bit more for higher quality.
Outdoor
- Stiga XTR
- Joola Nova
Indoor
- Joola Rally TL
- Stiga Advantage
- Joola Inside
- Butterfly Junior
- MD Sports Regulation
- Head Summit
#1. Stiga Advantage: Best for Recreational Play
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Not fit for more competitive play |
| Playback modes allow for individual playing sessions. | |
| Easy assembly and storage | |
| Ample surface thickness provides enough bounce. | |
| Adjustable height | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 195 lbs.
- Surface: 16mm Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)
- Legs Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.2 inches
- Net: 72-inch
- Coating: Automated Repeat Roller Paint
- Assembly time: 10 minutes
Keeping in mind that the table is not for intense, professional competition, the Stiga Advantage is an excellent choice for a recreational player. The Ping Pong table provides just enough of the basic features for casual players to enjoy playing table tennis indoors. From both an affordability and quality standpoint, the Stiga Advantage has certainly earned its place as one of the best ping pong tables under $500.
The surface consists of Medium Density Fiberboard, which is the usual material for indoor tables. This quality assures the table’s durability, and along with the paint on the surface, it provides a springy enough bounce for leisurely play.
Assembling and storing the table is relatively easy with its two-part system. Since the table comes 95% pre-assembled, all it takes is a few latches, and it’s good to go. This design also allows for playback mode, which is suitable for players who play on their own.
#2. Joola Inside: For Intermediate Players
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | The table leans toward the heavier side |
| UV Cured surface with Wood composites assures the table’s durability | Assembling takes longer than usual |
| Easy assembly and storage | |
| Edge protectors lessen the risk of accidents. | |
| Excellent net quality | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 189 lbs.
- Surface: 15mm Wood Composite
- Legs Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.2 inches
- Net: 72-inch
- Coating: Scratch-resistant Powder
- Assembly time: 10-20 minutes
Joola Inside gives the players the ultimate Ping Pong table experience without breaking the bank. This does not come off as a surprise since Joola has been the brand of choice for numerous professional table tennis tournaments. This table has certainly earned its place as one of the best ping pong tables under $500.
The wood composite table has a UV cured coating that makes for its smoothness and sufficient bounce. This table comes with a net that attaches quickly, and the net is adjustable with a clamp on both ends.
You’ll be able to store the table safely, thanks to the safety latches that prevent the table from accidentally crashing. Assembling would also be hassle-free as the Ping Pong table comes in two halves, although users report that it takes more than the advertised 10 minutes to get everything in place.
Another feature worth noting is its edge protectors, which protect players from running into sharp edges on the table.
#3. Butterfly Junior: Compact Children’s Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Its compact size makes it a huge space saver | The size limits the table for singles’ games only |
| No assembly required | The clip-on net does not have a locking mechanism |
| Affordable | |
| Lightweight | |
| MDF provides sufficient bounce and durability | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 7 x 4 feet
- Weight: 70 lbs.
- Surface: 12mm MDF Wood Composition
- Legs Thickness: 0.88 inches
- Coating: Scratch-resistant Powder
- No Assembly Required
Butterfly Junior gives its users the necessities to be able to train their children in the sport of table tennis. It’s smaller than the standard Ping Pong table size, which makes it more convenient for the usage of children. Thanks to its smaller size, this table falls well below the price tag of $500.
The table does not require assembling, adding to its overall convenience. Unfolding the legs would immediately set up the table, and the free net that comes with it clips on quickly as well. It also comes with caster wheels on the legs making this Ping Pong table portable.
With its relatively smaller size, children get a head start at the game without getting overwhelmed. While it’s meant for children, nothing’s stopping adults from playing a miniature Ping Pong game.
One thing to note is that Butterfly assures its patrons of excellent after-sales service with the 3-year warranty included in purchasing this table.
#4. MD Sports Regulation: Best Value for Money
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers a complete package which makes it very affordable | Assembling for the first time might take some time |
| PVC material improves on its durability | The balls and paddles that come with the set are substandard |
| Easy setup and storage | |
| Corner caps and safety locks lessen the risk of injury. | |
| Tournament-sized | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 125 lbs.
- Surface: 15mm MDF Wood with PVC finish
- Legs Thickness: 1.25 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.10 inches
- Coating: PVC Underside Finish
- Constant Assembly Not Required
The MD Sports Regulation table makes it easier to begin playing table tennis, as it offers a complete starter pack for an affordable price tag. Even in a list of Ping Pong tables under $500, this table comes in #1 in terms of affordability. In addition, this table comes in with a net, two posts, two paddles, and two ping pong balls.
The abundance of PVC material makes this table water-resistant, adding to its durability. While it may not be ideal to use for outdoor play, unavoidable moisture during storage would be one less thing to worry about in the future.
This table’s complete set allows for immediate playing time, along with its easy assembly. The table is foldable with removable caster wheels, allowing for more convenient transfers and storage.
#5. Head Summit: For A Sleek, Sturdy Finish
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Its sleek design makes it a classy addition to any location | Very heavy |
| Seamless surface not only makes up for form but also functionality with its consistent bounce | The most expensive table in this list |
| Easy setup and storage | Unfolding the table takes up a lot of space |
| Tournament-approved | |
| Excellent net quality | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 220 lbs.
- Surface: 18mm Seamless
- Legs Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.2 inches
- Net: 72-inch
- Coating: Scratch-resistant Powder
- Assembly time: 10 minutes
People who do not compromise on both style and functionality would like the Head Summit table for its seamless finish and its tournament-approved quality. While the table goes a bit above the $500 price range, we still included this table in this list of best Pong Pong tables under $500, thanks to the table’s premium features.
At 220 pounds, the table is heavier than any other table in this article. While this weight may result in difficulty moving the table, this weight does add to the sturdiness and durability of the product.
Like most of the tables in this article, the Head Summit comes in at two halves with anti-tilting clamping systems to secure them during games. Folding it in half for Playback and completely for Storage mode is possible as well.
Along with the superior-quality table is the deluxe net with adjustable tension, and a post set and stays in place with clamping attachments.
#6. Stiga XTR: Best Overall
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weatherproof and highly durable frame | The surface creates a glare which becomes distracting in direct sunlight |
| Playback modes allow for individual playing sessions | Paddles and balls are sold separately |
| Easy assembly and storage | The relatively thin surface might not withstand competitive plays |
| Built with levelers that make the table stable on uneven surfaces | Sharp-edged making the table unsafe for children |
| Wheels allow for better portability. | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 166 lbs.
- Surface: 6mm Aluminum Composite
- Legs Thickness: 1.25 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Net: 72-inch All-weather
- Coating: Exterior Grade Powder
- Assembly time: 10 minutes
Stiga XTR solidifies the company’s reputation for delivering consistent, high-quality materials. Clearly, Stiga’s reputation carries over to its ping pong tables as well.
The combination of Galvanized steel, Aluminum, and exterior grade powder assures its user its ability to withstand constant weather changes. The weatherproof net’s tension is also adjustable, which allows for more customized playing experience.
Its playback mode lets the player train on his own, and with the wheels on its legs allows for better mobility. It only takes ten minutes to assemble the table, which makes the Stiga XTR a convenient option. The legs are foldable as well, allowing for more comfortable and efficient storage. One thing to note, though, is that this Ping Pong table does go above the $500 price point.
#7. Joola Nova DX: For Better Durability At A Higher Price
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rust-resistant coating adds to the table’s durability | Paddles and balls are sold separately |
| Playback modes allow for individual playing sessions | Users report damages upon delivery |
| Easy assembly and storage | Does not offer as much bounce |
| Built with levelers that make the table stable on uneven surfaces | Relatively expensive |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 144 lbs.
- Surface: 6mm Aluminum Plastic Composite
- Legs Thickness: 1.25 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Net: 72-inch All-weather
- Coating: Powder Coat
- Assembly time: 15 minutes
The defining trait of the Joola Nova DX is its durability. Its rust-resistant coating adds a layer of protection to assure the player of its durability, which allows it to be stored and played outdoors. That being said, the durability does come at a steeper price tag.
As for set up, moving and setting the table up is convenient, with each half of it having four wheels each. Each wheel also has a lock that secures the table from moving during games. Assembling the table’s reasonably comfortable as well, since it only has eight bolts to screw. Setting the whole table up would take two people 15 minutes or even less.
The table includes a Joola Weatherproof Net and Posts set, which are of excellent quality as well. The net’s tension is also adjustable, making for a more customized experience.
#8. Joola Rally TL Professional: For the Advanced Players Who Don’t Mind Spending
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weight options allow for better customization | Relatively expensive |
| Tournament approved | Assembling gets more confusing with the added features |
| Easy assembly and storage | The magnetic scorers tend to fall off easily |
| Comes with ball holder and abacus scorers | |
| Surface materials allow for excellent bounce and durability. | |
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 feet
- Weight: 155 lbs.
- Surface: 15mm MDF
- Legs Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Apron Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Net: 72-inch
- Coating: Scratch-resistant Powder
- Assembly time: 10-15 minutes
The quality in the Joola Rally TL Professional makes it fit for the intermediate to professional athletes who want the freedom to train at home. The approval of the ITTF for this table assures the player of its superior quality.
This table comes with three options for its thickness, which allows for more customized playing experience. All three’s surfaces are painted in black charcoal, with the MDF assuring its durability even in the most competitive games. The use of these materials also provides the table with a consistent and above-average level of bounce.
Ball Holders and Abacus Scorers made out of magnet set this table apart from other indoor variants as it allows for a more convenient overall experience.
Like most Ping Pong tables, the Joola Rally allows for Playback mode, and it comes in two halves with foldable legs that makes storing and assembling easy. The wheels on all corners of each half have safety latches that make the table more secure in any mode.
Top Pick: The Stiga Advantage
We’re picking the Stiga Advantage despite its slightly heftier price tag, thanks to its ability to be fit for both indoor and outdoor use. While other Ping Pong tables like the Joola Nova DX or the Head Summit could provide superior quality, going well beyond our $500 budget made them fall short.
This table’s durability assures players of its high quality, whether they play for leisure or competitively, may it be in or outside the house. The table’s durability and its corresponding versatility is why we’re picking this over any other table in this list.
How to Choose the Right Ping Pong Table
The list of things to consider before buying a table might get too much for the first-time buyer. Below is a simplified version of the things you need to look for before deciding on a purchase.
Knowing the intensity of the games you play and determining where you would position the table would tell you the more suitable features. For example, you may want to prioritize getting an outdoor table if that’s where you intend to place your ping pong table.
The second thing to consider is the ease of storing and assembling the table. Most Ping Pong tables already have a Playback and Storage mode, but considering how convenient or complicated setting everything up would contribute to the table level of convenience the table offers.
A higher price tag does not necessarily make a better table, although going for the extremely affordable ones could sacrifice some aspects like the table’s durability or playability. Considering the amount of space you could dedicate to the table would significantly narrow down your options.
Another thing to check on is the table’s warranty. Occasionally, a table may get damaged during shipping. Knowing the terms and conditions of the warranty would assure you of less stress when it comes to getting repairs or a replacement.
Final Thoughts
Like choosing the right equipment as a player, deciding on the table that perfectly fits your need could either make or break your experience. It’s best to know what you want out of your Ping Pong table in order to prioritize the tables on this list. Given that we wanted to focus on the best ping pong tables under $500, we certainly prioritized affordability as a key variable in this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to have a dedicated space just for the table?
A: Quick answer is no, although having specific spots in the house could reduce the amount of time needed to set up your Ping Pong table. A variety of sizes are available to make a better fit for the open space in your home. Like what was mentioned above, it’s best to check on this factor first before diving in and buying a table. Checking how compact or easy storing the table would be is also ideal.
Q: What is MDF?
A: MDF stands for Medium Density Fiberboard, which is typically used in Ping Pong tables nowadays for its sufficient ball absorption abilities. While High Density Fiberboards supposedly work better than MDF, the material is not readily available, increasing the cost of tables that use this type of composite. In comparison to standard plywood, though, MDF allows for a significantly better bounce, which makes it an ideal material for Ping Pong tables.
Q: Won’t tables with wheels installed be more dangerous?
A: Ping Pong tables nowadays have wheels installed on their legs for better mobility and more accessible storage. These are usually combined with height levelers that keep the surface table even on any type of floor. While it does pose a risk, manufacturers have made it a point to put on locking mechanisms on the wheels to make them more secure. It is best to check on the type of latch the table has to know to gauge the security level it could offer.
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