With so many different choices, brands, and prices available, it's easy to get overwhelmed when you are looking into buying a games table. What size do you want? What surface is good? Is outdoor or indoor the way to go? So many questions to ask, and luckily, we have the answers. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about getting the right games table.
Let's start with some essential details:
Indoor or Outdoor?
You need to take this into account before you even start looking at game’s tables. Are you getting the table for a specific room? Or is it going to go outside for parties and events? If you are looking to host parties outside there is no point in buying a games table, as they are indoor. In this case a table tennis table is the way to go. The frame and the material on top won't be able to withstand the Irish weather, and it will end up costing you more in the long run.
If you are looking for an outdoor option, a table tennis table is the way to go, just be aware that they are pricier than their indoor counterparts. This is because they come with a waterproof design to brave the elements all year round. The components on an outdoor table are heavy-duty, meaning they won't be prone to rusting or breaking, and the surface is treated so that you don't have to worry about it warping. The special coating and stable structure mean you won't have to worry about the changeable Irish weather.
If it is an indoor table, you are looking for, then be sure you have mapped out enough space in your home for it. A standard tables size is around 9-foot in length and 5-foot in width. You will have to allow for room around the table as well, but these measurements should give you a clear indication of how much space you need to have for one. Of course, some tables are smaller, while others are bigger, but those measurements as a standard are a good place to start.
Size Guide
As previously mentioned, there is a standard size for tables, but there are a few exceptions to that rule if you don't have space for a typical 9-foot table. Broadly speaking, there are three different sizes to choose from:
Standard Size Table
There are many names for this table such as regulation, full size, and Olympic. This is because it is a standard of measurement that most suppliers use. As these measurements are so common, how you can tell the difference in quality is by the thickness of the surface. Thickness can range from anywhere between 9mm all the way up to 22mm. This means it is often used for clubs, sports centres, and schools as the quality of the surface will allow heavy-duty use.
Junior Table Tennis Table
This is the second most popular one and is around ¾ the size of a standard table. The typical measurement of it is 2ft 6" and a 12mm surface. It also has a lower price point so is ideal for children or if you don't have space in your house.
Buying Guide
The price of games tables varies and can start anywhere from €129 up to €1,999. Why such a large gap? Well, it comes down to a few things such as quality, size, thickness, and whether it is an indoor or outdoor table. We'll bring you through a few different tables that are all good quality and suit various price ranges.
Table Tennis Tables
1 - For indoor use, you will need a table that is easy to be folded and transported, it has to be practical, right? The HIT Sport Indoor Folding Tennis Table, comes with posts, net, pads and balls included, and is the perfect games table for indoor use. This timeless classic brings the fun to your home as well as assisting on reaction speed, coordination and concentration development.
2 - No matter your skill level, our outdoor table is a dependable piece of equipment that is designed for every level ping pong player. We're talking about the Hit Sport Outdoor Table Tennis Table. This table also has wheels for easy transportation and can be folded to be neatly stored away* after use. You can even fold up half the table for you to practice solo! This regulation-sized table is perfect family homes!
3 - The Butterfly 9ft Easifold Rollaway Table Tennis Table Blue is a very popular table as it comes practically assembled. It can be folded for storage and is moved easily with the wheels that have been installed on it. A popular choice of rollaway table for both school and home use.
4 - Do you want to go pro? The Butterfly National League 22 Rollaway Indoor Table Tennis Table features a 22mm playing surface, combined with the 8 wheel system which provides economic storage and lighter rollaway benefits. This is the ideal table for sports centres, schools and clubs that need a games table at a great price.
Games Tables
If you are looking for a games table, there are three options to choose from. You can go with a multi-game table, a football table, or a pool/table tennis table. Each one had its own benefits so we will break it down:
Multi-table
The multi-table has a wide range of games to choose from, from chess, and football, to bowling and table tennis. You will be sure to find something for the whole family on one of these tables.
Football Table
A football table, or foosball as it is commonly known as, is a two-player table where you can bring your players to victory all from the comfort of your home. These are also foldable so you can store it when it is not in use.
Pool/ Table Tennis Table
These two-in-one games table combine two popular games. Choose from either a game of pool or table tennis and enjoy family fun. It is also folding so it can be put away when not in use.
Final Thoughts
No matter which table you choose, all these games' tables will last for years to come and are a great gift for any time of the year.
