College is no walk in the park.
No wonder beer pong traces its roots to college fraternities. They probably thought they needed to devise a way to loosen up and stay sane amidst the challenges of college life!
Traditionally, the game is played by two teams of two to four members aiming at each other’s half-filled cups of beer. The opponent drinks from the cup where the ball lands. Bragging rights go to the team that first empties the opponent’s cups.
Since its birth in the 1950’s, beer pong has become a staple not only in campus social culture but even at regular parties. It’s such a fun, non-intimidating game that is easy to enjoy.
There are tons of affordable, portable, and exciting beer pong tables that are perfect for your next party your tailgate.
Because a single Google search is enough to give you information overload, we simplified things for your convenience. In this post, you will find the different types as well as the features to look for in a beer pong table.
When you are ready to decide, you can take your pick from any one of the top portable beer pong tables that emerged from our strict evaluation.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out our tips about alternative ways of playing the game. 😉
I bet you’re ready for the details, so here they are…
Best Beer Pong Tables: Comparison
| Image | Name | Table Top Material | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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GoPong Table | Plastic | 8 ft x 2 ft x 27.5 in | $$$ | 10 / 10 |
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Red Cup Pong Table | Aluminum | 8 ft x 26 in x 26 in | $$ | 9.8 / 10 |
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Best Choice Products Table | Plastic | 8 ft x 2 ft x 27.5 in | $$ | 9.6 / 10 |
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Versapong Table | Plastic | 27.5 in H | $$ | 9.5 / 10 |
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PartyPong Table | Plastic | 8 ft x 2 ft x 28 in | $$$$ | 9.3 / 10 |
Features To Look For
Although you can play beer pong on any flat and balanced table, you will never look back once you play on one that is specifically made for it.
Materials
Tables are differentiated by the materials that they are made from. Although some say that the effect on game play is very minimal, it still pays to decide whether wood, aluminum or plastic is your tabletop of choice. You can even choose an inflatable table for your pool parties!
Size
While regulation size tables at 8 feet long are common, there are also 6 feet tables that are perfect for less challenging (and more easily drinkable) shots. Look for tables that are around 27.5 inches in height as this works best for most players.
You can opt for rack types that you can set at varying distances depending on your desired level of difficulty. If space is really limited, there are smaller tabletop boards that allow you to enjoy the game as much as with full sized tables.
Portability
This is a major feature to look for. Fortunately, most tables these days can be folded into a briefcase with handles. Aside from allowing you to bring the game just about anywhere, it also enables you to conveniently store it when not in use.
Durability
You would want a table that will last through college, or even years after that. Look for one with a solid frame. Regardless of tabletop material, it is important to have waterproofing finish so you can easily wipe off the inevitable beer spills.
Accessories
Beer pong hardly uses any accessories, but most tables already include balls in the package. It is good if there is a storage beneath the table to keep you from going after the balls that don’t end up in the cups.
Design And Customization Options
You will be amazed at how many design options are available. Look for one that will best reflect your personality. However, be prepared because the table’s price may shoot up depending on your selection.
Sports and art are just some of the themes that go into the tabletop designs. There are also blank dry erase tables that allow you to write anything, including a bit of trash talk aimed at the opposing team.
For additional entertainment, go for tables with glow lights and speakers.
A lot of tables also have optional triangles that serve as a guide for cup arrangement. Cup holes may also be pre-cut for less spilling and easier table maintenance.
Now that you know the important factors to consider, you are ready to choose the right table for you.
Best Portable Beer Pong Tables
Our search led us to an overwhelming number of choices. That is precisely what we don’t want you to go through! We carefully assessed each product and weeded out the inferior ones.
Trim down that selection because we now present the cream of the crop: the best beer pong tables on the market today.
1. GoPong Table
Imagine having your table in a briefcase that you can effortlessly bring anywhere anytime. The GoPong Table gives you that convenience, and more.
No time or patience for complicated assembly? Don’t worry because it can easily be set up in a few minutes. It takes no more than extending the legs and unfolding the table to start enjoying the game.
Made of durable melamine, this black folding beer pong table has a waterproof surface that can withstand years of fun and excitement. The aluminum legs are also strong, although opening and closing the hinges can be slightly challenging.
The table is 8 feet long which is the standard tournament regulation size. Some people find its 27.5 inches height a bit short so GoPong heeded the call and released the GoPong PRO which is 36 inches tall and is ideal for bar and tournament use.
The GoPong table comes with 6 ping pong balls. It is easy to keep them organized with the styrofoam ball holder that comes with the table.
We all know how annoying it is to chase those balls all over the place so this is definitely a welcome feature.
This table comes in other interesting designs: a classic distressed American flag perfect for Memorial Day, 4th of July or Labor Day parties, a dry erase table with pre-cut cup holes, and a football-themed table that you can customize with logos of your favorite teams.
Boost the fun and get your own GoPong 8 foot portable beer pong table!
2. Red Cup Beer Pong Table
Coming in at second place is an indoor and outdoor portable beer pong table from Red Cup Pong.
This 8 foot beer pong table fits right into a 2’x2′ portable case. With its carrying handles, you can easily bring the fun to any party. Assembling this 22-pound table is very simple and when you are ready to store it or move the game to a different location, you can fold it just as quickly.
A stable and level table is key to enjoying a fun and fair beer pong match. When assembled correctly, it stays secure so there is no need to frequently adjust anything. You can focus on aiming at those cups!
The Red Cup Pong Table also has additional convenience features. Tired of losing the balls? Keep them arranged in the rack beneath the table. To make refilling the cups easier, the table has a built-in stainless steel bottle opener.
You can choose from the table’s different designs. It comes in a Sports Official theme, there’s the Sistine Chapel, an Angels and Demons surface, and a football HD design. However, be aware that the designs are merely stickers and are not painted on the table itself. The table is made to avoid warping and resist spills but it is still advisable to wipe the liquids immediately to preserve its quality.
Overall, the Red Cup Pong Table is an easy and affordable way to enjoy beer pong. It is built to last, so you know you can keep the table for a long time.
3. Best Choice Products Table
Our third best foldable beer pong table is from Best Choice Products.
This table is constructed with an aluminum frame base and a melamine coated table top. It has one of the coolest designs among all the tables that we checked out and is very easy to transport!
You will also love its durability as it can take scratches from years of playing on it and sun damage from occasional outdoor use. While the playing surface is also protected from beer spills, make sure to wipe it off immediately because the liquid can seep in the metal edge of the table’s sides.
Although it is most popular among college students, beer pong is a game that can be tweaked to suit different age ranges. This is why we find the height adjustment feature very helpful. The 8-foot table can be set at 27.5 inches high or at 20.5 inches for younger players. (We do not condone underage drinking.)
The table top has a rack set up for playing 6 or 10 cup games depending on the number of players. The guides may be a bit too close to each other but it still makes racking easier than setting up cups on a clear table.
It is easy to bring this table and enjoy it anywhere because it can be folded into four sections and fit into an easy to carry case with two handles. It’s very lightweight for a foldable beer pong table at only 23 lbs. Many people also find it useful for other purposes – just throw in a cover and it can be an additional table for kids’ parties or during camping.
For its unique design, compact size, and dual height settings, the Best Choice Products Table will surely be a hit at many parties.
4. Versapong Table
The fourth spot belongs to a unique table from Versapong.
Its portability and versatility set it apart from other tables. While most tables are foldable into a briefcase with handles, the Versapong table features two racks with a sturdy tripod base that fit in a travel case with backpack straps. Weighing only 7 lbs., it is almost three times lighter that the average pong table.
Although it is smaller and lighter, you can still enjoy competitive play from this regulation-sized table because it stands at 27.5 inches and you can set the racks 8 feet apart. If your space is limited or you are in the mood for a more easygoing match, you can simply move the racks closer to each other. For your convenience, the racks also have holders that fit generic 16 oz. cups.
The table’s versatility even extends to its looks. You can choose from six different colors. If you want to make it more personalized, there is a customizable version that has the Versapong logo on just one side of the rack so you can design the rest to your liking. Add stickers or decals to give it more character!
Yes, it’s convenient and beautiful. Most importantly, the Versapong table will stand the test of time. With molded parts made of ABS Plastic and legs made of furniture grade PVC, you have a durable table that you can enjoy for years.
If portability is a topmost concern, the Versapong table is the one for you.
5. PartyPong Table
If you want a table with a bit more flair, get this one from PartyPong.
It is a durable 8 foot beer pong table with aluminum framing and legs and 1/4 inch melamine panels. The table is very easy to set up and fold back up. Weighing only 25 lbs., it also folds into a briefcase with handles so you can conveniently carry it to parties and events.
The table surface effectively repels liquid and is easy to clean. We love the design choices that range from sports themes, America and Canada emblems, even trucker girl and dry erase tables.
As if 11 different graphics are not enough, it has optional LED glow lights that surely add life to an already exciting beer pong game. The LED lights only require two AA Batteries per side and can be set to 3 speed settings.
You can even get this dry erase version with an optional bluetooth speaker that you can connect to your phone for some lively background music.
The pre-cut ball rack holes that hold the red cups are very useful. Less sliding and spilling means easier table maintenance and more importantly, fewer game interruptions!
If you want a sturdy and striking table for beer pong, this one from PartyPong is perfect for you.
Honorable Mentions
As promised, there you have your top 5 tables. We can end there, but we won’t.
Although we filtered the choices, we also don’t want to limit your options. Here are two more great products worth checking out.
1. GoPong Barge Floating Table
Are you a beach bum? Do you live in a place where it’s usually warm and the pool serves as your sanctuary? If you answered “yes” to either question, the GoPong Barge Floating Table fits your style perfectly.
You can use it in three ways: as a pool pong barge, as a social floating raft, or as a floating lounge. All are perfect for your next pool party.
The ends of this 6 foot beer pong table barge have triangle guides to set up 10 cups. It may be smaller than regulation tables but you can still enjoy fun and competitive beer pong games.
Your beer pong squad does not have to be too far away. They can join the fun and cheer you on along the sides.
No need to share the booze because there are 8 cup holders for their own drinks, be it red cup with beer or a water cup. If you are not feeling competitive, you can ditch the game and just use the barge for social floating, instead of playing beer pong.
If you’re at it, you can go solo and relax while getting your tan and enjoying your drink. Ah, the good life!
Whichever way you want to use it, it would be annoying if you have to go elsewhere to refill your drinks. GoPong saw that coming so it designed the barge with a central cooler to hold up to 18 cans with ice. How convenient, right?
Inflatables commonly have strength issues but the GoPong Barge Floating Beer Pong Table meets reasonable expectations. It is made from the highest quality raft grade material so with proper care, you can expect to enjoy it for years. It is easily the best beer pong table for the water.
2. Mini Pong Table
Mention pong and a rowdy, alcohol-filled party immediately comes to mind. Buffalo Games changes that with its Mini Pong Table. Although you can still have that kind of fun if you wish, this mini table’s features allow your younger, non-drinking friends to enjoy the game.
It’s easy and enjoyable at the same time. The recessed racks and skid resistant footing keep the cups stable for minimal spilling.
We all know that not all shots go in and that chasing loose balls is not fun at all. You will not encounter that with the Mini Pong because the ball is tethered to the center of the board. Another advantage? The ball that ends up in you drink stays clean!
And speaking of cleanliness, the only maintenance that this mini table requires is wiping its solid wood, waterproof surface with mild soap and water.
Dump the 25 reusable cups and other accessories in the accompanying mesh storage bag and place everything in the carrying case so you can bring the fun anywhere you want to. And when it’s time to put it away, it takes up very limited storage space.
If you want a low maintenance, tabletop pong board, the Mini Pong table is your best bet.
Types Of Beer Pong Tables
The game of beer pong has evolved since it was first played in the 1980’s. Naturally, the table has also undergone transformations to keep up with the times. The structure may be similar but most differences boil down to the materials used. Customization is also becoming a big hit!
So what options are available? It is best to know the different types of tables to help you find a good match.
Early tables have a wooden top. Because they are heavier, they are deemed to be more stable. However, they are not recommended for outdoor use because they are prone to warping.
Plastic table tops provide a nicer ball bounce. Although they are lighter, the metal frames add that much needed stability.
While generally more affordable, aluminum table tops create a slower and lower bounce. For a lot of people, that can be a bit frustrating.
If you prefer outdoor play, what better way to enjoy a game than while relaxing in the pool? Inflatable tables allow you to have that luxury. They have cup holders and even a central cooler where you can deposit your drinks.
These days, the best beer pong tables have countless themes and designs to choose from. Sports, team logos, national flags, colors – name it and you can have those on your tables without sweat.
If you want to be more funky, there are tables that have glowing lights and speakers. Most tables also have triangle guides and pre-drilled holes to show you where the cups should be. You can also find a beer pong table with bottle opener built in.
There can be an endless debate as to what the best table really is. In the end, preferences prevail but the fun and excitement remain!
Beer Pong Variations To Try
In beer pong, skills are important but no one can deny that a great amount of luck is also involved. Whatever the combination ratio is, it makes the game really fun to play. No wonder it is the star of many college parties!
But do you know that there are variations of the game that will make it even more challenging and exciting? Here are just a few you could incorporate into your house rules.
Call Out
Before throwing the ping pong ball, you first call out which cup you will hit. The opponent drinks only when you hit the cup that you called. Shooting a different cup counts as a miss so the cup remains on the table.
Redemption
If you are the losing team and you want another try at winning it all, you can challenge the other team with a rebuttal. In this last try, you keep shooting ping pong balls to hit all of the other team’s cups. If you are successful, both teams play in a 3 cup overtime game to so that a final winner can be declared. Otherwise, be gracious enough to just accept defeat.
Bounce Shot Bonus
In beer pong, you can use an overhand, an underhand throw, or a bounce shot to aim at the cups. In this variation of the game, a bounce shot is given more premium. If you hit a cup with a bounce shot, you can pick another cup to be removed.
Balls Back
There are frustrating off days and there are unbelievably lucky days. If you’re experiencing the latter, take advantage of your hot hands. In this variation, you and your teammate get the ping pong balls back immediately if you both make successful shots in a turn. Your opponents lose a turn and just keep their fingers crossed that you miss a shot the next time.
Now, doesn’t that sound like a lot of fun?
Best Portable Beer Pong Tables: Conclusion
If you want sure entertainment in your parties, a professional beer pong table fits the bill perfectly. We could not think of a better way to consume all that alcohol while tapping into everyone’s fun and competitive side.
A lot of tables are made of durable frame and tabletop materials, like lightweight aluminum. The best beer pong tables have waterproof surfaces for easy maintenance. This makes it easy to wipe them down and make the game fun, not a chore to set up and clean up after.
Some tables are even protected from scratches and sun damage. From the countless designs, you can surely find one that matches your personality.
One of the best things about foldable beer pong tables is the portability. Most of them fold into a briefcase or have their own carry-all case so you can bring the fun and excitement of a drinking game anywhere.
Next time you grab some booze for your party, do yourself and your guests an additional favor: get our pick for the best portable beer pong table, the high quality GoPong Table, too!
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