A table tennis ball looks simple, but you feel the difference straight away: how round it is, how evenly it bounces and how long it lasts. The stars on the box tell you at a glance which level a ball is made for.
What do the stars mean?
| Ball | For whom | What you notice |
|---|---|---|
| ★ 1 star | Recreational play, home, outdoors and kids | Affordable. Less round and less even, so the bounce can vary. Fine to start with. |
| ★★ 2 star | Training at home and at the club | Rounder and more consistent than 1 star, at a fair price. Most players train with these. |
| ★★★ 3 star | Matches and competition | The strictest selection: as round and even as possible. For official matches, choose an ITTF-approved 3-star ball. |
| Training balls | Robot, multiball and club training | Packed by the dozen, cheap per ball and built to take a beating. |
The number of stars is the manufacturer's own grading, not an official standard. The official standard for matches is approval by the ITTF, the international table tennis federation. Look for ITTF Approved on the ball or box.
40+ and plastic
Since 2014, table tennis balls are no longer made of celluloid but of plastic. They are just over 40 mm in diameter, hence the name 40+. They are slightly slower and give a little less spin than the old celluloid balls. If you play competition, always choose 40+.
Seamed or seamless
Most balls are made of two halves joined together. Seamless balls are made in one piece and are very even. Both are allowed; it mostly comes down to feel and preference.
White or orange?
Both colours are allowed. Choose the colour that contrasts most with the background and floor of your hall. In the Netherlands, white is most common.
Indoor or outdoor
Outdoors, balls wear faster, get lost more easily and the wind plays a role. So for outdoor play choose an affordable 1-star ball or a ball made for outdoor use. Keep your expensive match balls for indoors.
Still not sure?
Our coaches are happy to help. WhatsApp, email or call +31 6 53697903.