A good billiard-to-ping-pong conversion top unlocks hours of fun while protecting your existing table. Whether you want tournament-like bounce, a budget-friendly topper for casual family matches, or the best balance between price and performance, the right conversion top matters. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, feature analysis, and consumer feedback across today's available models.
Considerations & Methodology
I evaluated conversion tops using a mix of hands-on testing, expert reviews, and customer feedback. Key factors included:
- Playability and bounce consistency (surface finish, material thickness) — measured by how true the ball rebound feels during rallies and serves.
- Protection & fit — foam or felt backing, protective pads, and how well the top conforms to billiard table edges without scratching.
- Stability & construction — hinge design, flatness across the center, and need for any supplemental support on hollow pool tables.
- Setup and storage — weight, folded dimensions, clamp-on net quality, and how easily units stow away.
- Value, warranty and brand trust — price vs. performance and whether the manufacturer provides a meaningful warranty.
Testing notes: I set each top on standard 7–8 ft pool tables and a few flat dining tables. For heavy play I checked long rallies to detect uneven bounce or center sag. I also reviewed verified buyer feedback to surface recurring issues (e.g., center droop on hollow-topped pool tables). Rankings reflect a balance of objective play metrics and real-world user experience.
7ft Table Tennis Top
A budget-friendly 7ft conversion top that's lightweight, quick to set up, and includes foam pads and a clamp-on net. Ideal for casual family play and smaller tables — offers good protection for pool tables at a very accessible price point.
This 7ft foldable conversion top is targeted at families who want quick, casual play without the cost of a full-sized table. It comes as two hinged halves with foam pads to prevent scratches and a clamp-on net. Standout features include rapid 3-minute setup, low weight for easy handling, and compact folded dimensions for convenient storage. Performance is suitable for recreational rallies but expect a slightly livelier or less consistent bounce than higher-end tops because of thinner top layers. Pros:
- Affordable and extremely portable
- Foam/felt protection prevents scratching
- Net and posts included for instant play
Cons:
- Not regulation 9'x5' size — best for casual play
- Surface and edge finish are basic; long-term durability is limited compared with premium tops
Bottom line: A great entry-level topper if you want quick setup and low cost, especially for families or casual players who won't demand tournament-grade bounce.
Stiga Conversion Top
A premium, regulation 9'x5' conversion top with a repeat roller coat-play surface and dense EVA foam backing for excellent playability and protection. Built for players who expect consistent bounce and long-lasting performance.
Stiga's Premium Conversion Top is aimed at serious players who demand regulation dimensions and a high-quality playing surface. The 9'x5' top uses a repeat roller-coated finish and silk-screened lines to deliver consistent, predictable ball rebound that closely matches a dedicated table tennis table. The entire underside is covered in dense EVA foam to protect your billiard table from scratches and provide a secure, non-slip fit. Important technical details: regulation-sized 9' x 5', heavy single-piece or multi-piece options, and a surface optimized for repeatable bounce.
Pros:
- Excellent playability and consistent bounce
- Robust foam backing for superior protection
- Trusted brand with proven table-tennis components
Cons:
- Heavier and less portable than budget options
- Highest price point in this group
Bottom line: If you want a conversion top that approaches the feel of a dedicated table tennis table and you value long-term durability and pro-level play, this Stiga unit is worth the premium.
8ft Table Tennis Top
A strong mid-range option offering an 8ft play surface, foldable two-piece design, foam protection and a clamp-on net. Good balance of portability, price, and on-table performance for families and casual competitors.
This 8ft conversion top strikes a balance between cost and usable play quality. It arrives as two hinged halves, includes foam pads and a decent clamp-on net, and converts in minutes. The 96" length is slightly shorter than full 9' regulation but delivers steady rally play for most recreational and club-level users. Note: on some hollow-backed pool tables the center can sag slightly — adding a small block or support under the center will correct that. Construction is lightweight but serviceable, and the price-to-feature ratio is very competitive.
Pros:
- Strong value — good features at a fair price
- Quick assembly and compact storage
- Foam padding protects surfaces
Cons:
- Non-regulation length (8ft) for players seeking full 9'x5' competition size
- May need center support on some pool tables
Bottom line: For buyers seeking a dependable topper that doesn’t break the bank, this 8ft model delivers the best mix of usability, protection, and price.
Hathaway 9ft Top
A regulation 9'x5' conversion top with a 1/2" engineered surface and green PVC laminate for consistent bounce, plus felt pads and a 180-day warranty. A solid choice for players who want tournament-sized play without the highest premium.
Hathaway's 9ft Quick Set Conversion Top is designed for players who want regulation dimensions and consistent playability at a mid-high price point. The half-inch engineered wood surface and PVC laminate produce steady bounce comparable to higher-end units. Felt pads on the underside protect the table finish, and the four-hinge fold design makes handling more stable during transport. The included 180-day warranty is a useful reassurance if parts arrive damaged or show early wear. While not as luxurious as premium-brand tops, Hathaway offers a dependable mix of performance and value.
Pros:
- Regulation 9'x5' size with engineered surface for consistent bounce
- Protective felt pads and foldable design for storage
- Manufacturer warranty included
Cons:
- Heavier than economy models
- Surface finish not as refined as top-tier premium conversion units
Bottom line: A reliable, regulation-sized option that earns the editor's pick for balanced performance, decent warranty support, and real-world playability.
Comparison & Quick Overview
Below is a concise comparison of the top picks to help you choose quickly:
- Stiga Conversion Top (Premium Choice) — Best overall playability; regulation 9'x5'; dense EVA foam backing; best for serious players who want near-table-tennis feel. Price: $349.
- Hathaway 9ft Top (Editors Choice) — Regulation 9'x5' engineered surface with reliable bounce and a 180-day warranty; solid middle ground for intermediate players. Price: $241.22.
- 8ft Table Tennis Top (Best Value for Money) — Two-piece foldable design, foam protection, and great price-to-performance ratio; recommended for casual players seeking balance. Price: $169.99.
- 7ft Table Tennis Top (Best Budget Pick) — Cheapest, highly portable, and quick to set up; ideal for casual family play or tight storage situations. Price: $119.99.
Which is best overall?
- Best overall (play & protection): Stiga Conversion Top. If you prioritize true-to-game bounce, durable construction, and outstanding protection for your table, Stiga justifies the higher cost.
Which is best for most people?
- Best value: the 8ft mid-range topper. It balances setup ease, protection, and play quality for most home users. If you need a strict 9'x5' regulation surface but don’t want to pay premium prices, the Hathaway model is a strong alternative.
Final recommendation: For dedicated players who want the best possible rebound and protection, invest in the Stiga Premium Conversion Top. For most households, the 8ft mid-range topper offers the best balance of price and performance. If you’re on a tight budget or need maximum portability, the 7ft budget model will get you playing quickly without risking your pool table. These choices are informed by hands-on testing, materials and construction assessment, and verified buyer feedback — pick the model that matches how seriously you’ll play and how much storage and transport flexibility you need.