Ping Pong Balls
Get the Ping Pong Balls Right For You
Ping Pong Balls Star Rating System
Ping pong balls are all given a star rating from 1 star to 3 stars. Balls with a 1 star rating are the lowest quality, meaning they’re the easiest to break and tear apart. On the other hand, 3 star rated balls are the highest quality and the most durable. These ratings are not standardized in any way. Instead, each manufacturer sets their own star rating system, so it’s possible for certain 2 star balls to perform better and last longer than 3 star balls if from different manufacturing companies. With the lack of standardization, some companies even rate their balls 4 or 5 stars, though this is not the norm.
ITTF Requirements for Ping Pong Balls
If you’re looking to play table tennis seriously or simply want to abide to the official ping pong rules, there are strict requirements set by the ITTF for the standards of ping pong balls. For instance, balls must must weigh between 2.67-2.77 grams, must have a diameter between 39.5 and 40.4mm, must have consistent bounce, must have uniform levels of hardness, roundness, and thickness.
Along with those requirements, balls must either be white or orange, must abide by the star rating, be labeled as 40mm, and pass the stamp requirements for what’s printed on the ball.
Paddle Ratings
A paddle’s performance is usually divided into 3 categories: Speed, Spin, and Control. However, you don’t want a paddle necessarily maxed out in every category. If a paddle generates a lot of speed, it’ll generally have lower levels of control. Whether you are a defensive or offensive player, as well as your overall playing style will determine which one of these categories you want to prioritize.
