The Best Table Tennis Conversion Tops and Complete Buyer’s Guide
A table tennis conversion top is one of the best additions to your game room. You can instantly transform your pool table or billiards table into a full-size ping pong table.
You don’t already have a pool table? No problem, just convert your dining table into a tournament-style ping pong table. What’s more, these conversion tops are foldable. You don’t need to fret about where to store the table when not in use. The closet will do just fine!
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5 Best Table Tennis Conversion Tops
Whether you call it table tennis or ping pong, we have picked out the five best conversion tops for your consideration.
JOOLA Regulation Table Tennis Conversion Top (Foam Pads with Apron)
- CONVERT ANY TABLE: Transform your billiard, dining, or outdoor picnic table into a regulation-sized table tennis table in just minutes! (Minimum length and width for table underneath is 7x3 feet)!
This JOOLA table tennis conversion top is very close to a full-size ping pong table. You get a 7 foot by 3-foot playing surface and clean blue color. The playing surface is MDF, the same as most regulation table tennis tables.
The top is 15mm thick, which supports good ball bounce during play. The clamp-style net is what you find on full-size regulation tables. The clamps secure the net firmly while the tension adjusters allow you to get the tautness right.
Another distinguishing feature of this JOOLA model is the 1.5-inch steel tube aprons. The additional support ensures your table remains firm and doesn’t sag.
A significant pain point of this table is it is cumbersome, weighing 117 pounds. The weight shouldn’t be a problem if you plan to install it permanently. Otherwise, removing the conversion top to use the pool table or dining table can be a hustle.
At the risk of sounding superfluous, this is a spectacular table tennis conversion top. It is pretty much a regulation table tennis table without the undercarriage.
What we liked
- MDF construction supports great ball bounce
- Solidly constructed conversion top with steel tube aprons
- Regulation table tennis conversion top is perfect for competitive play
- Comes with ten foam pads to protect the table underneath
What we didn’t like
- The massive table weighs 117 pounds
- Some shoppers may think it’s expensive
JOOLA Regulation Table Tennis Conversion Top with Foam Backing
- 2-IN-1: Transform your billiard table into a full-sized table tennis table for the best of both worlds!
This JOOLA table tennis conversion top is almost exactly like the one reviewed above, with only a few minor differences. You get many of the attractive specs of the previous table.
These specs include a generous playing surface measuring 108″ L x 60″ W x 0.6″ high. You also get the clamp-style net complete with tension adjustment. Finally, this is also and MDF conversion top.
Now to the differences: for starters, this model is slightly cheaper. You don’t get the steel tube aprons with the more affordable model. This omission isn’t a problem for most casual players since the table sports durable construction. For expert and aggressive players, on the other hand, the extra support will come in handy.
This model also has the entire bottom covered with EVA foam backing rather than the foam pads that come with the above model. This design means that you can place your conversion top without worrying about aligning the foam pads to the surface underneath.
Like the other JOOLA model, this table is heavy at 115 pounds. Otherwise, this is a cheaper alternative for people who want to stick with the world-renowned JOOLA brand.
What we liked
- Exceptional build quality and construction
- Net tensioning system to get the perfect tautness
- 2-piece conversion top is easy to assemble
- World-renowned and reputable brand
What we didn’t like
- The conversion top is heavy at 115 pounds
Martin Kilpatrick Ping Pong Table for Billiards Table
- MARTIN KILPATRICK GAME TABLES - Convert your pool table to play ping pong with one of the ultimate pool table accessories
Martin Kilpatrick is yet another recognizable brand in the ping pong world. This conversion top fits neatly in the premium category with a 9 foot by 5-foot playing surface. It also has accurate regulation dimensions.
The conversion top also fits pool tables up to 9 feet long. Its connecting system ensures both sides are flush and secured even during aggressive play. This top is 19mm thick, which you don’t often find in the conversion top category. You can expect optimum ball bounce here.
A metal apron ensures the table remains stable and firm during completive play. You can choose from three, ITTF approved colors, including grey, blue, and green. The package also comes with adhesive foam pads. Stick these to the bottom of the conversion top to protect the surface underneath.
While the slide-on net system is easy to install and remove, it is not the best. This type of net doesn’t have tension adjustment, which is a significant omission at this price range.
The specs of this Martin Kilpatrick conversion top come closer to the regulation table tennis than all other models in this review.
What we liked
- Regulation 9 foot by 5-foot playing surface
- 19mm thickness supports optimum ball bounce
- Available in three different colors (grey, blue, and green)
- Premium table tennis conversion top
What we didn’t like
- Slide-in net doesn’t have tension adjustment
Rally & Roar Indoor Table Tennis Conversion Top
- READY, SET, ROAR: This Table Tennis Converter Top by Rally and Roar is a convenient way to play a pop-up game virtually anywhere with its unique 2 or 4 board design, allowing you to convert an air hockey or pool table into a ping pong game in seconds
This Rally & Roar table tennis conversion top is the most versatile that we have seen so far. You can choose between the 2-panel or 4-panel set. The 2-panel option measures 54″ x 60″ when folded while the 4-panel option is better for compact storage.
The entire bottom of the conversion top features 3mm of EVA foam lining. You don’t have to worry about your billiards, pool, or dining table getting scratched. This model is 9 feet by 5 feet, so you have a generous playing area.
Experienced players will love the tension adjustment line to perfect the net tautness. This conversion top is also 19mm thick, which gives you excellent ball bounce.
On the downside, the net poles are cheaply constructed. The plastic poles can come off or even break after taking particularly hard hits. The paint job could also be more attractive.
This Rally & Roar table tennis conversion top is reasonably priced. It is the perfect pick for a game room for young adults, kids, or the occasional or casual player.
What we liked
- Reasonably priced conversion top for its specifications
- 19mm thick playing surface gives high ball bounce
- 4-piece set is perfect for compact storage
- Supports net tension adjustment
What we didn’t like
- Cheaply built plastic net poles are prone breaking
- The paint job doesn’t look very professional
EastPoint Sports Foldable Table Tennis Conversion Top
- PING PONG TABLE TOPPER FOR ADULTS & KIDS - An ultimate rivalry two or four-player game, making it the ideal indoor game table for the family game room, home bar or rec room. Just grab a pair of ping pong paddles and balls, and get ready for a competition.
This EastPoint Sports table tennis conversion top is the perfect option for budget shoppers. This model is also one of the simpler ones we have seen here.
There is no assembly required here except clamping on the net poles. This model doesn’t come in two separate lockable pieces. Instead, it has hinges to fold the table in half. The clamp-style net poles are stable and don’t move even after taking massive hits.
You get a full-size 9 feet by 5 feet to play area. The table tennis conversion top also comes with eight protective pads. Stick these to the underside of the conversion top to protect your precious dining table or pool table.
This conversion top is excellent for the price, but there are a few downsides. Firstly, the two sides of the ping pong table do not quite sit flush at the hinges. This slight issue can cause the ball to bounce awkwardly or uncontrollably if you hit the center of the table. Also, the conversion top is 12mm thick. The thickness is well under the recommended figure, even for a table-top model.
Most casual players can easily ignore these faults if they notice them at all. This EastPoint Sports table tennis conversion top is an excellent choice for casual players or a children’s or teen game room.
What we liked
- Affordable price
- Full-size 9 feet by 5 feet play area
- Clamp-style net poles stay in position during play
- Includes eight protective pads to protect the table underneath
What we didn’t like
- 12mm top thickness may offer mediocre ball bounceThe two table pieces do not sit exactly flush at the hinges
5 Things to Consider When Buying a Ping Pong Conversion Top
Shopping for a ping pong conversion top can quickly feel overwhelming. There are seemingly endless choices available on the market. There are a few areas to keep in mind to ensure that you choose the best table tennis conversion top for your home.
Size and Dimensions
The regulation dimensions for a ping pong table is 9 foot long by 5 foot wide. These measurements are simply for reference. Consider how much space you have for the ping pong table.
You also need at least 5 feet of free space on each end. Additionally, you need at least 2 feet of space on each side to play competitively. You can still get away with at least 3 feet of free space on every side if you are playing casually.
Make sure that you measure the table underneath the conversion top. This measurement will guide you on the size of the conversion top. As a general rule, any standard dining table, pool table, or billiard table can support most conversion tops.
Top Thickness
The thickness of the table affects how well the ball bounces during play. The regulation thickness for a standalone table is 25mm. Tennis conversion tops are usually a lot thinner than this. Aim for at least 15mm thickness. Smaller than 15mm, and the ball will not bounce as well as it should.
Build Quality
Most table tennis conversion tops come in two pieces. These pieces lock together using a locking mechanism. Make sure that the pieces sit flush at the seam to avoid spots where the ball bounces awkwardly.
Additionally, a secure locking mechanism prevents the table from moving during aggressive play.
The right table-top will also feature several layers of non-glossy matt finish paint. The paint not only looks good, but also won’t chip, crack, or fade over time.
Underside Foam Backing or Pads
Make sure that the conversion comes with some kind of underside protection. The pads protect the table underneath the conversion top from scratches and other damage. EVA foam is the best material for this purpose.
A fully padded underside is preferable. Adhesive pads can wear out over time and may need replacing regularly. At the very least, ensure that you have some protection for the table surface underneath. Also, consider covering the support table with fabric for extra protection.
Nets and Posts
Most table tennis conversion tops come complete with a net and posts. Steel posts are the most durable, while plastic is prone to damage. The post style is equally important.
Clamp-style net posts are the best option. The design clamps securely on the table and doesn’t move even during aggressive play. Clip-on or slide-in posts are average. This style can move or detach during a particularly aggressive shot.
These nets also tend to sag over time. A net tensioning system is ideal in this case to ensure the net remains taut throughout.
FAQs
Are there outdoor ping pong table conversion tops?
Most ping pong table conversion tops are made with indoor use in mind. These tables are also for enthusiasts rather than professional players. They simply aren’t built to the same standard as standalone tournament tables.
Some models may claim to be for indoor and outdoor use. This claim usually means that you can use the table outside but can’t leave it out.
Conversion tops typically don’t withstand the elements, even with a high-quality cover. Please store your table inside when you finish playing.
How tall should the playing surface be?
The regulation height for ping pong tables is 2.5 inches. You can have the playing surface higher or lower, depending on your height. You don’t have to follow the rules precisely for casual playing. Most standard pool tables or dining tables should be about the correct height.
Will the conversion top scratch my pool table?
Without any underside protection, the conversion top will scratch your pool table. Please make sure that there is a protective surface underneath the conversion top.
The best protection is EVA foam backing. Adhesive EVA foam pads work just as well. Just make sure that you replace the pads when they begin to wear out.
Conclusion
Despite your space or budget, there is a table tennis conversion top out there for you. We will leave you with a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your ping pong conversion top.
These tops typically sport an MDF playing surface. The surface can begin to deteriorate if exposed to dirt and spills. Also, the dirt and grime may affect the ball bounce and damage the paddles over time.
Wipe the conversion top with a damp lint-free cloth or sponge at least once a week. Use warm water for the best result. A DIY cleaning solution of equal parts vinegar and water should also help. Wipe the surface with a damp lint-free cloth to get rid of particularly suborn stains or sticky spots.
