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Table Tennis Table Size Guide and Dimensions
Last updated 31st March, 2022

When looking for a full size table tennis table to buy, one of the most important things to do before making that purchase is to work out exactly how much space you’d need for it. Ping pong table dimensions can vary, and you may want a different amount of room either side of the table based on whether you’re playing singles or doubles, or if you’re new to the sport or an advanced player.

We’ve done the hard work for you, with explanations of the types of tables available and simple diagrams showing the room you’d need to play on a standard table tennis table. But before that, let’s answer the most frequently asked question about table tennis table sizes.

What is the size of a standard table tennis table?

The official size of a table tennis table is 274cm long, 152.5cm wide and 76cm in height according to the ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation), who approve the dimensions of ping pong tables for them to be considered regulation. This equates to approximately 9 feet in length and 5 feet in width. These are the same dimensions now used for Olympic standard table tennis tables since the sport was introduced to the Games in 1988. There is no standard weight and they can range from 50kg to well over 100kg (over 220 lbs).

The different sizes of table tennis tables

Although the vast majority of full size table tennis tables follow the same dimensions, there are a few different options if you don’t have the room or space for a regulation table. There are broadly four sizes of ping pong table to choose from:

1. Full size table tennis table

You’ll see full size table tennis tables called different things, such as regulation, official, Olympic size or even standard as there is only considered to be one set of dimensions that most manufacturers follow. These are 274cm by 152.5cm by 76cm. Because these measurements are so common the difference in a good quality table compared to a bad one is the thickness of the playing surface, typically ranging from 16mm to 25mm, the thicker the better for a firmer bounce and quicker overall game play.

2. ¾ size table tennis table

The next most common size is the ¾ size ping pong table, sometimes called a junior ping pong table. As you can expect, these tables are about three quarters of the size of a standard table but there is a little more variation in these measurements than the full size equivalent. The most common dimensions of the ¾ size table are 206cm in length, 115cm in width, and 76cm in height. You’ll notice that the height doesn’t typically change with this alternative as it’s the most suitable level for adult players.

3. Midsize ping pong table

Another option that is slightly smaller than the ¾ size is what you can often find referred to as midsize ping pong tables in the US. These are a lot more common in the States as a naming convention, but can be found across the western world. The size of a midsize table tennis table is most commonly 180cm (71 inches) in length, 91cm (36 inches) in width, and 76cm (30 inches) in height. The height does not vary from a full size ping pong table or even a ¾ size table.

4. Mini or table top ping pong table

It is possible to find small ping pong tables that take up less space than the other options available, whether folding or foldable sometimes called mini table tennis tables, or the table top version which don’t have any legs and require table space to play. These tables vary enormously in size and quality, and there are many options on-line that only include a table tennis net that can be clipped to any table, bats and a ball.

Requirements of a regulation table tennis table

The ITTF has several requirements of an official table tennis table including size and shape, the colour and markings, and the material it’s made out of too. These are:

  • Dimensions: 274cm (108in) in length, 152.5cm (60in) in width, and 76cm (30in) in height
  • Thickness: there is no restrictions in the thickness of a table tennis table but it should meet the bounce criteria of achieving a 26cm uniform bounce when dropped from 30cm in height
  • Weight: there is no weight requirement of regulation table tennis tables though they are usually 136kg (300lb)
  • Colour: there is no specification in the colour of the playing surface other than it must be one single dark colour with a matt finish (no gloss)
  • Markings: the markings of a regulation table tennis table should include a 2cm end line, 2cm side line, and a 3mm centre line for doubles
  • Table material: most table tennis tables used for regulation sporting events are in MDF or HDF though there are no requirements stated by the ITTF

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Size chart: how much space do I need for a table tennis table?

Before you buy a table tennis table it’s worth making sure you have the space to put one up with enough room at all sides to play unobstructed. There is no hard and fast rule for the amount of space you need, but for new or hobby players you should have a space that is a minimum of 18ft by 11ft. With a standard table tennis table this will give you 3.5ft at either of the playing ends and 3ft at either side. This is however the smallest room you would need, and a space of 22ft by 11ft would be the ideal. For doubles table tennis you would need a minimum space of 19ft by 11ft, and ideally 24ft by 14ft.

Below is a table tennis size diagram showing how much space you need for singles and doubles table tennis when playing on a full size table tennis table.

What to do if you’re short on space

If you don’t have enough room to set up a full size table tennis table in your home with enough space to play properly, you have a few options to consider.

Outdoor table tennis tables

One way to get around a lack of space indoors is to buy an outdoor table tennis table that’s designed to withstand the weather. Many of these can be kept outside permanently too, and if you choose a good quality one you don’t even have to sacrifice table performance. Take a look at our reviews of the Best Outdoor Table Tennis Tables with an easy to follow Buying Guide too.

Folding table tennis tables

If the challenge is more about finding somewhere to put your table when it’s not in use, a folding table tennis table is certainly the way to go. Most of the tables in the US and UK nowadays are foldable and usually have wheels too making them easily portable. If storage space really is an issue, one of the best, affordable table tennis tables on the market is the Butterfly Unisex Ultimate Outdoor Table Tennis Table which is designed for minimal room needed for storing it, measuring only 66cm in width when folded.

Small table tennis tables

There are many ping pong tables to buy that don’t require the full 18ft by 11ft playing area if you don’t mind playing on a slightly smaller table. Have a look at the wide range of ¾ size table tennis tables available which are becoming increasingly popular due to their portability and price. Alternatively, if you’re looking to buy a pong table as a gift for kids, the affordable Butterfly Starter Indoor Table Tennis Table is a fantastic option for hours of fun.

Conclusion

For any new table tennis players or hobbyists, the smallest amount of room you need to play table tennis is 18ft by 11ft for singles, and 19ft by 11ft for playing doubles. However we’d recommend playing in an area that’s 22ft by 11ft if you want to make sure you’re playing without any obstructions. If this isn’t possible for you, don’t let it stop you from enjoying the sport - there are plenty of options that aren’t full size table tennis tables such as ¾ size tables or even table top ping pong tables. Make sure you find the right one for you.

Affiliate disclaimer: on some or all of the products above, we receive a small commission if you make a purchase via our site. This does not impact the price you pay, but it allows us to keep helping people by writing these reviews, so thank you!


Tom
Co-founder at Mancaves HQ

A true man cave enthusiast. When he isn't trawling through Instagram looking for new ideas, you can find him navigating through the streets of London.