Why 7/8" top for most outdoor table tennis?

Question

I know 3/4" top is good enough. But why do most outdoor tables come out even ticker? Is 7/8" aluminium outdoor top compatable with 3/4" wood indoor top in term of boucing quality? I'm buying a table and not decided about indoor/outdoor yet. I don't mind paying more for outdoor but just not sure if outdoor is necessary. Of course, I know I will play outdoor but the table will always kept inside the garage.

Answer 1

1st question: Most outdoor tables have more expensive construction details than indoor because they need to be sturdier to withstand the elements. Table top thickness is a measure of quality, so at a certain price point, it doesn't make sense to skimp on the top thickness.

2nd: For a given table top, 7/8" is better than 3/4" as it provides a heavier more stable surface. But a 7/8" aluminum top will play different than a 3/4" wood and a 7/8" wood as well. The bounce tends to be a little lower and slower with less grab for spin.

3rd:If you really will be taking outside only to play and then it goes back in, get the indoor model and keep it covered when you aren't using it. At some point you risk the top having slight warping from from the humidity and temperature variations in the garage, but that effect will be far in the future. But if you're a very casual player and once the table is out, it's likely to stay out for a while, get the outdoor model since rust and weathering can happen after 1 season.