If you're looking for a table tennis net to use at home or for a table that won't be used for serious competitive play, there's a wide variety of nets to choose from. Although some new table tennis tables come with a net and post set, in most cases you'll need to buy your net and post set separately. There are three types of net assemblies in general... • Permanently affixed to the table • Clip with a spring-loaded catch • Screw clamp tightened by hand Permanently affixed to the table Outdoor tables are typically equipped with a net assembly that is permanently attached to the table. These are typically only the same width as the table, i.e. five feet long, as opposed to the official length of six feet. Some rollaway tables also include a net assembly that is permanently attached to the table, though these are usually six feet long. Clip with a spring-loaded catch Some net assemblies are attached to the table with a spring-loaded clip. These are popular because they are simple to install on your table. Screw clamp tightened by hand The hand tightened screw clamp is the most commonly used type. These provide the most stability and adjustability. What kind of table tennis net do you require? Unless you have a table tennis table with a permanently attached net assembly, you'll need to choose between a spring-loaded clip and a hand-tightened screw clamp net assembly. Clip with a spring-loaded catch These table tennis nets are simple to attach and remove from a table, making them ideal for schools, home use, or if you're in a hurry. Screw clamp tightened by hand If you're just playing for fun on a home table, a cheap table tennis net may suffice. The most affordable options in this category have a very basic clamp, as shown here. However, the net is usually only 5 feet or 5 feet 6 inches long, and it may not be adjustable in height. How to select a table tennis Table? Factors to consider when buying a table tennis table: Portability: The first thing to consider is whether you intend to set up the table permanently or if you intend to pick it up and move it frequently. A fold-up model table is a good choice if you'll be moving it around a lot. This type of table can be easily handled by one person because it has rollers for easy movement. High-quality roller tables have brakes on the wheels, which prevent the table from moving while in use. Thickness: Table thickness is an important factor to consider when choosing the best table. Professionals should be concerned with the thickness of the tabletop, regardless of how appealing the table appears or what brand it belongs to. Legs: Because your table will almost certainly take a beating over time, make sure it has extremely strong legs and support. Also, look for the leg levelers at the bottom of the logs. These will come in handy if the floor you're playing on isn't level. The levelers can be adjusted to maintain the table's standard 30-inch height above the floor. Leveling: Analyze the table height from all sides of the tabletop for any potential warping or bending that could affect the bounce of the ball. A one-yard or one-meter spirit level can be useful for determining whether or not the table surface is flat.
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