When it comes to ping pong tables, there are two main types: 2 piece and 4 piece. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
When deciding whether to purchase a 2 piece or 4 piece ping pong table, First and foremost, it is necessary to learn the differences between these two.
In fact, there are quite a few differences available between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables.
In this blog post, we will explore the differences between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables.
By the end, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which type of table is best for you. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What are the 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables?
Before proceeding, it is important to know what 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables are.
2 piece ping pong table
A 2 piece ping pong table is one whose playing surface is made of only two pieces. These two pieces can be joined together by the net and the two posts, and can also be separated.
Many 2 piece ping pong tables are made of engineered wood, MDF, and aluminum materials.
4 piece ping pong table
Basically, a 4 piece ping pong table is one that has a surface of four pieces.
The first two pieces are on one side of the table and the other two pieces are on the second side, these four pieces connect and separate with the help of woodblock spacers, net, and posts.
Several materials are used to make the four-piece ping pong tables, including wood, alloy steel, polyvinyl chloride, and composite materials.
2 Piece Vs 4 Piece Ping Pong Table: 8 Main Differences
Now that we know the basics of 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables, let’s dive into the differences between the two.
1. table legs
The first difference between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables is the legs.
The 2 piece ping pong table has 4 legs or 6 legs. but a 4 piece ping pong table has 8 legs.
Besides that, the legs of the 4 piece table are larger than 2 piece table in size.
2. caster wheels and leg levelers
The second difference between 2 piece and 4 piece tables is the caster wheels and leg levelers.
A 2 piece table has 6 or 4 legs. And under each leg has one leg leveler, but the leg under does not have caster wheels.
But if we see the 4 piece table, the 4 piece table has 8 legs. And under the middle 4 legs of the 4 piece table have 4 caster wheels and the other four legs have leg levelers.
3. size and weight
For size and weight difference, I will compare one 2 piece table and one 4 piece table.
The third difference between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables is the size and weight.
The length of the 2 piece ping pong is 43, the Width is 39 and the height is 5. while the length of the 4 piece ping pong table is 108, the width is 60 and the height is 30.
You can see the difference between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables, it’s a huge difference.
The weight of the 2 piece table is 73 Pounds, and the weight of the 4 piece table is 121.5 Pounds. The 4 piece table is 50% big than the 2 piece table in weight.
4. Assembly
A 2 piece table can be quicker and easier to assemble than a 4 piece table. But the assembly process of a 4 piece table takes more effort and time than a 2 piece table.
In addition, the assembly of the 2 piece table requires only one person, while for assembly of the 4 piece table required 2 people.
5. transport and store
The fifth difference between 2 piece and 4 piece tables is transport and storage.
A 2 piece table is much easier to store and move than a 4 piece table.
The procedure for moving and storing a 2 piece table is like that, first, remove the net from the 2 piece table top, second fold the 2 pieces, then a lot of 2 piece tables become a suitcase and you can easily store anywhere and move easily using the handle.
But when you try to store or move the 4 piece table you can face some problems.
6. Durability:
2 piece ping pong tables are not as durable as 4 piece ping pong tables. 4 piece ping pong tables are more durable than 2 piece ping pong tables.
7. Price
A 2 piece ping pong table is cheaper than a 4 piece ping pong table. A 4 piece ping pong table is more expensive than a 2 piece ping pong table.
This is because a 2 piece table is made from low-priced materials, while a 4 piece table is made from high-priced materials.
The second reason is that a 4 piece table has more features than a 2 piece table.
But if your budget is low then 2 piece table is the best option else if your budget is high then 4 piece table is perfect.
8. Playback Mode:
The eighth difference between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables is the playback mode.
2 piece ping pong table is not designed for a playback mode or single-player practice and the 4 piece ping pong table is designed for a playback mode.
It means you can not play alone on the 2 piece ping pong table, rather you will use 4 piece ping pong table for single-player practice.
Conclusion
So these are the 8 differences between 2 piece and 4 piece ping pong tables. And after knowing these differences in this article, I hope you will be able to easily choose the best ping pong table according to your needs.
FAQS
1. Are there any professional tournaments that use 2 piece or 4 piece tables?
Yes, there are professional tournaments that use both 2 piece and 4 piece tables. However, most tournaments use 4 piece tables because they are more durable and can be used for a longer period of time.
2. Can a 2-piece table be used for doubles play?
Yes, a 2 piece table can be used for doubles play. However, it is not as common because most use 4 piece tables.
3. Which is better for tournaments and competitions: a 2 piece or 4 piece table?
Most tournaments and competitions use 4 piece tables because they are more durable and can be used for a longer period. However, some use 2 piece tables.
4. Which is better for casual or competitive players?
A lot of casual or beginner table tennis players like 2 piece tables because they’re easier to transport and affordable.
However, some competitive ping pong players prefer 4 piece tables because they are more durable and can be used for a longer period.
5. Are there any specific brands or models that you recommend?
There are many brands and models of ping pong tables on the market. Some of the more popular brands include Stiga, Joola, Killerspin, and Butterfly.
There are, however, a number of other brands and models to choose from. But, it will depend on your budget and personal preferences.
6. Which type of table is more popular? Why?
4 piece ping pong tables are more popular than 2 piece ping pong tables because they are more durable and can be used for a longer period.
However, 2 piece tables are becoming more popular because they are more affordable and easier to transport.