Ping pong balls are essential equipment for table tennis, whether you're a casual player or a professional. These small, lightweight spheres play a crucial role in the game's speed, spin, and bounce. But did you know that not all ping pong balls are the same?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ping pong balls, including their types, sizes, materials, and how to choose the best ones for your game.
What Are Ping Pong Balls?
Ping pong balls, also known as table tennis balls, are spherical balls specifically designed for the sport of table tennis. They are lightweight, hollow, and made from either plastic or celluloid.
Key Features of Ping Pong Balls:
Diameter: 40mm (standard size)
Weight: 2.7 grams
Color: Typically white or orange
Material: Plastic (modern) or celluloid (older)
Bounce: Must rebound 24-26 cm when dropped from 30.5 cm
History of Ping Pong Balls
Ping pong balls have evolved over the years. Originally, they were made of rubber or cork. However, in the early 1900s, celluloid became the standard material due to its durability and bounce consistency.
In 2014, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) switched from celluloid to plastic (polyethylene) balls for environmental and safety reasons. Plastic balls are now the official standard for competitions.
Types of Ping Pong Balls
Not all ping pong balls are created equal. Here are the main types available:
1. 1-Star Ping Pong Balls
Best for: Casual play, beginners
Quality: Lower durability, inconsistent bounce
Price: Affordable
2. 2-Star Ping Pong Balls
Best for: Recreational players
Quality: Better than 1-star but not tournament-grade
Price: Mid-range
3. 3-Star Ping Pong Balls (Tournament Grade)
Best for: Professional and competitive play
Quality: High durability, consistent bounce, ITTF-approved
Price: Higher cost
4. Training / Practice Balls
Best for: Coaches and training sessions
Quality: Durable, often sold in bulk
Price: Cost-effective
5. Novelty Glow-in-the-Dark Balls
Best for: Fun games, night play
Quality: Not suitable for serious matches
Price: Varies
Ping Pong Ball Materials: Plastic vs. Celluloid
The material of a ping pong ball affects its performance.
Plastic Balls (Modern Standard)
Pros:
More durable
Environmentally friendly
Consistent bounce
Cons:
Slightly harder feel
Celluloid Balls (Older Standard)
Pros:
Softer touch
Traditional feel
Cons:
Flammable (safety hazard)
Less durable
Since 2014, professional tournaments only use plastic balls.
Ping Pong Ball Sizes
The standard size for ping pong balls is 40mm in diameter. However, there are variations:
40mm (Official Size) – Used in all ITTF-sanctioned events.
38mm (Old Standard) – Used before 2000; smaller and faster.
44mm (Recreational) – Larger and slower, great for beginners.
How to Choose the Best Ping Pong Balls
When buying ping pong balls, consider these factors:
1. Quality (Star Rating)
For serious play, choose 3-star ITTF-approved balls.
For practice, 1 or 2-star balls are sufficient.
2. Material
Plastic balls are the standard for competitions.
Celluloid balls are outdated but still used by some players.
3. Durability
Cheaper balls crack easily.
High-quality balls last longer, even with intense play.
4. Color (White vs. Orange)
White balls are most common.
Orange balls are used for better visibility on certain tables.
5. Brand Reputation
Top brands include:
Nittaku (Premium quality)
DHS (Double Happiness) (Popular in tournaments)
Butterfly (High-performance balls)
Stiga (Great for training)
How to Test Ping Pong Ball Quality
Want to check if your ping pong ball is high quality? Try these tests:
1. Bounce Test
Drop the ball from 30.5 cm (12 inches).
A good ball should bounce 24-26 cm (9.4-10.2 inches).
2. Roundness Test
Roll the ball on a flat surface.
If it wobbles, it’s not perfectly round.
3. Seam Check
High-quality balls have smooth, nearly invisible seams.
Cheap balls often have rough seams.
Common Ping Pong Ball Problems Fixes
1. Cracks Damage
Cause: Hard impacts, low-quality material.
Fix: Replace with a higher-quality ball.
2. Uneven Bounce
Cause: Imperfect shape or low quality.
Fix: Use ITTF-approved balls.
3. Loss of Grip on Paddle
Cause: Worn-out or dirty balls.
Fix: Clean the ball or replace it.
Where to Buy Ping Pong Balls
You can find ping pong balls at:
Sporting goods stores (Decathlon, Dick’s Sporting Goods)
Online retailers (Amazon, Walmart, eBay)
Specialty table tennis shops (Megaspin, PingPongDepot)
FAQs About Ping Pong Balls
1. Why are ping pong balls white or orange?
White is standard, while orange is used for better visibility on green or blue tables.
2. How long do ping pong balls last?
In professional play, balls are replaced every few games. For casual play, they can last weeks or months.
3. Are there different speeds of ping pong balls?
Yes, 40mm balls are slower than the old 38mm balls. Some brands offer "fast" or "slow" versions.
4. Can I use any ball for official tournaments?
No, only ITTF-approved 3-star 40mm plastic balls are allowed.
Conclusion
Ping pong balls may seem simple, but they play a vital role in your game’s performance. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, choosing the right ball (3-star plastic for competitions, 1 or 2-star for practice) will enhance your playing experience
