Table Guide

A brief look back: The history of the table tennis table

The table is the centrepiece and also the namesake of the sport of table tennis. Its origins date back to 19th century England. At a time when lawn tennis was gaining popularity, particularly in middle-class and upper-class circles, people were looking for ways to play the game away from the tennis court. In response to this need, people began to play on ordinary outdoor tables. Due to the typical English weather, the game soon moved indoors.

In 1875, engineer James Gibb published the first binding rules for ‘table tennis’. This was also the first time that standardised dimensions for the table were defined - even though the tables at that time were somewhat more compact than today's models. Over the decades, the regulations were constantly developed further until the modern table tennis table in its current form was created.

Competition tables - quality for the highest demands

In organised competitions, the quality of the table is of crucial importance. An even, defined ball bounce over the entire playing surface is essential. To ensure this, the recommended table top thickness is at least 22 mm. Many competition tables - e.g. for point games or tournaments - even have a 25 mm thick playing surface to guarantee optimum playing conditions.

Types of table tennis tables according to ITTF

The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) distinguishes between four basic table designs:

• Two separate halves without wheels
• Two separate halves with wheels
• Fixed connection of both halves without automatic mechanism
• Fixed connection with automatic mechanism

Separate table halves: Tables such as the GEWO Europa 25 have two independent table top halves without castors. This makes transport somewhat more complicated, which explains their decline in modern halls. Nevertheless, they offer advantages: they can be stored in a very space-saving manner, are more stable and are often cheaper.

Tables with separate halves and integrated castors require a little more space for storage as the castors protrude. However, they can be easily pushed into each other and offer flexibility of use - even for creative training set-ups. They also enable the so-called ‘playback’ position, in which one half of the plate is positioned vertically. This function allows individual training, as the ball bounces back from the upright half.

Permanently connected table systems: These table types are characterised by a fixed connection between the two halves. Models with an automatic mechanism make setting up much easier, as both sides are lowered at the same time. This saves valuable time, especially in sports halls with many tables. One disadvantage: The playback position is not possible with these models. They also require considerably more space for storage.

Making the right choice

To find the right table, the following questions should be considered:

• How much storage space is available? Tables with two separate halves are particularly space-saving in storage.
• Do you often train alone or with beginners? Playback-capable models are ideal for individual training or younger players.
• Are many tables set up and dismantled regularly? Automatic models enable quick and effortless handling.

What does ITTF certification mean?

The ITTF is the international governing body for table tennis. It defines the technical standards for competition materials, including the properties of table tennis tables. Only tables that fulfil all requirements exactly receive official ITTF certification - a prerequisite for use in international tournaments.

Many models, such as the GEWO Bundesliga SC, fulfil most of the requirements and offer excellent playing characteristics, but do not have formal certification - often due to minor deviations such as a 22 mm table top. In the amateur and leisure sector, however, this difference is hardly significant. Certification is not required for outdoor tables anyway, as these tables have to fulfil other requirements.

Standard dimensions:

• Length: 274 cm
• Width: 152.5 cm
• Height: 76 cm
• Ball bounce: 23-26 mm with a drop height of 30 cm

Hobby tables - fun outside of competitions

Table tennis is ideal for breaks and private games - whether in schools, companies or in the garden at home. Leisure tables are available in both indoor and outdoor models. Most of them can be folded up and moved on wheels, making them easy to handle.

Outdoor tables

Outdoor tables are weather-resistant and therefore particularly suitable for use in the garden or school playground. Typical materials are

• Aluminium composite: Good playing quality for new tables, but susceptible to deformation due to moisture and temperature changes.
• Concrete: Extremely robust and durable. Ideal for public spaces. However, the playing quality is secondary.
• Melamine resin: Low weight, long durability, weatherproof. However, the ball bounce is not quite as high as with indoor boards.

Experienced club players will realise that the playing experience on outdoor tables is very different - not only because of the wind and lighting conditions, but also due to the material properties.

Indoor tables

Indoor tables offer excellent playing characteristics and are designed especially for school and club sports. They are usually made of pressboard, which is, however, sensitive to moisture. An indoor table is therefore only recommended for private use if a dry and well-tempered storage location is available - such as a heated garden shed.

Mini tables – compact and entertaining

Mini tables are a charming alternative for the home. They fit easily into the living room, can be set up quickly and provide varied fun. They can also be used creatively in clubs - for children's tournaments or to liven up training sessions, for example.

Conclusion: The right choice for every need

The decision in favour of a particular table should always be based on the intended use:

• For competition and intensive training: indoor tables with a table top thickness of at least 22 mm, preferably 25 mm.
• For school sports: robust outdoor tables with melamine resin top for flexible use.
• For home: Consider available storage space, material properties and mobility.
• For permanent outdoor use: Stationary models with high stability, preferably concrete or thickly coated resin.

Before you buy a table tennis table, you should think carefully about how and where you want to use it. Indoor tables are the first choice for use in clubs or tournaments. Optimum playing characteristics are important here, which is why a high-quality playing surface with sufficient thickness is crucial. The table top should be at least 22 mm thick - but 25 mm is ideal to ensure an even, professional playing experience.

In schools, on the other hand, other requirements usually take centre stage. As play quality is not the main focus here, school tables do not need particularly thick tops. If you want to use the tables both indoors and outdoors - for example in the school playground or at different locations - you should look out for weatherproof outdoor tables with a melamine resin surface. These are robust, easy to clean and provide reliable protection from the weather and mechanical stress.

If, on the other hand, you are planning to use the table purely indoors, for example at home or in the gym, even inexpensive indoor tables offer a good level of play. The most important thing is to keep an eye on the available space - not every room is big enough for a tournament-sized table.

For permanent outdoor use, such as in public areas or school playgrounds, a particularly stable and sturdy table is recommended. Stationary models with a robust design - made of concrete or with a very thick melamine resin top, for example - defy vandalism and the weather and remain in place even with intensive use.