Pickleball features a larger court and a perforated plastic ball, focusing on strategic placement and court movement. Table tennis (ping pong), played on a smaller table with a lightweight ball, emphasizes rapid reflexes and precision, with a greater focus on spin and speed.
The first ever game of pickleball was played with table tennis paddles, and many people still compare the sports today.
The Key Differences Between Pickleball and Table Tennis (Ping Pong)
When it comes to fast-paced, exciting racquet sports, pickleball and table tennis often come to mind.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences and similarities between pickleball and table tennis, helping enthusiasts and beginners alike to understand these dynamic sports better.
Pickleball Paddles Vs. Table Tennis Paddles
Ping pong paddles tend to be small and round with short handles. They usually measure about 10 inches in length (from handle to tip) and just under 6 inches in width.
Ping pong paddles are made from laminated wood coated with rubber on either side. The thickness of the rubber depends on the style of the ping pong player – those wanting more control will pick a thinner rubber, while those after more power go for thicket options.
Pickleball paddles are a similar shape to those used in table tennis, but extended. The combined length and width of a pickleball paddle cannot exceed 24 inches, with the usual dimensions coming in at 7-8.25 inches in width and 15.5-17 inches in length.
A pickleball paddle has a solid face – usually made of carbon fiber, graphite, or composite material – and a thick internal core (in fact, there are no restrictions on the thickness of a pickleball paddle).
Can You Use a Ping Pong Paddle for Pickleball?
Using a ping pong paddle for pickleball is not advisable and generally not allowed under official rules.
Pickleball Balls Vs. Table Tennis Balls
Pickleball balls are larger, heavier, and perforated for outdoor and indoor play.
Pickleball balls and table tennis balls are made from a similar type of material – they are both hollow and made of lightweight, durable plastic.
The main difference between the balls used in either sport is the size. According to the USAPA (USA Pickleball Association), pickleballs measure 2.874 to 2.972 inches in diameter, while a table tennis ball has a diameter of just 1.575 inches (40mm).
The other big difference is that table tennis balls are solid, while pickleball balls are perforated with between 26 and 40 circular holes.
Pickleball Courts Vs. Table Tennis Courts
Pickleball courts are larger, resembling a downsized tennis court. A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet in width and 44 feet in length, including lines for the non-vo
lley zone, also known as the kitchen, which is 7 feet from the net on each side. The net is hung at 36 inches on the ends and 34 inches in the middle. Pickleball courts can be indoor or outdoor, typically made of hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
Table tennis/ping pong is played on a table rather than a court. The standard table size is much smaller, measuring 9 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 2.5 feet high. The net divides the table into two equal halves and stands 6 inches high. T
he playing area around the table should be at least 14 meters long, 7 meters wide, and have a ceiling height of 5 meters to accommodate professional play, but recreational play can adapt to smaller spaces.
Pickleball Rules Vs. Table Tennis Rules
When people are describing pickleball to their friends, they will often say something like this: ‘It’s like table tennis, except you get to stand on the table!’.
This is because the two games have a few similar rules. The ball is allowed to bounce on each side of the court once before being returned; the ball has to go over the net; and if the ball leaves the confines of the court it is considered out.
However, there are also differences to take into consideration:
Pickleball Rules:
- Scoring: Games are usually played to 11 points, win by 2. Points can only be scored by the serving side.
- Serve: The pickleball serve must be underhand, and the ball must be hit in the air without bouncing. The serve is diagonal, starting from the right-hand service square.
- Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, each side must make at least one groundstroke prior to volleying the ball (the ball must bounce once on each side).
- Non-Volley Zone: Players cannot volley the ball (hit it in the air) while standing in the non-volley zone, commonly known as the kitchen, near the net.
- Faults: Include hitting the ball out of bounds, not clearing the net, stepping into the non-volley zone and volleying, and other infractions.
Table Tennis Rules:
- Scoring: A match is typically played best of 5, 7, or 9 games, with each game played to 11 points. A player must win by 2 points.
- Serve: The ball must rest on an open hand palm and then be tossed up at least 6 inches before being struck. Serves are diagonal, from one corner to the opposite side.
- Rally: Points can be won by either player during a rally, not just the server.
- Let: If the ball touches the net on the serve and still lands in the correct service box, it’s a let and the serve is replayed.
- Faults: Similar to pickleball, faults include failing to clear the net, hitting the ball out of bounds, or failing to return the ball.
Which is Harder, Ping-Pong or Pickleball?
For someone with a background in racquet sports (tennis, badminton etc.), pickleball might be easier due to its larger ball and court.
On the other hand, for those adept at quick, precise movements and who prefer indoor play, table tennis might seem less challenging. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal aptitude and preference.
Is Ping Pong Good Practice for Pickleball?
Playing ping pong can be very beneficial for pickleball players, as it enhances hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and strategic thinking. The fast-paced nature of ping-pong improves reaction times and precision, skills that are valuable in pickleball, especially during net play and volleys.
However, it’s important to remember that pickleball has unique aspects such as a larger court, different serving techniques, and specific rules like the non-volley zone, which require dedicated practice on a pickleball court.
Transitioning to Pickleball from Table Tennis
If you’re a table tennis player looking to get started in the pickleball game, you’re in luck! Many of the skills you’ll have developed playing ping pong will suit you well in pickleball.
Here’s our effective tips to master the pickleball game in no time:
- Adapt to the Paddle and Ball: Spend time getting used to the weight, size, and feel of the pickleball paddle, as well as the flight characteristics of the pickleball.
- Learn the Court Layout: Familiarize yourself with the dimensions and layout of the pickleball court, especially the non-volley zone (the kitchen). Understanding these spatial differences is key.
- Adjust to Different Serving Rules: Practice the underhand serve used in pickleball, which is different from the serve in table tennis. Work on placing your serves strategically.
- Develop Court Movement Skills: Unlike the limited movement in table tennis, pickleball requires more extensive court coverage. Focus on improving your lateral movement and overall footwork.
- Master the Soft Game: In pickleball, the soft game, including dinks and soft volleys, is crucial, especially in doubles play. Utilize your fine motor skills from table tennis to excel in this aspect.
- Understand the Scoring System: Pickleball’s scoring system and rules are unique. Make sure to learn and understand how scoring works, including which positions can score and the sequence of service.
- Practice Patience and Strategy: While table tennis emphasizes speed and reflexes, pickleball often requires a more strategic and patient approach, particularly during longer rallies.
- Adjust to Outdoor Play: If you’re used to playing table tennis indoors, prepare for outdoor elements like wind and sun when playing pickleball.
- Join Clinics or Groups: Participate in pickleball clinics or local groups to get coaching and practice with experienced players.
