Where to Buy Table Tennis Balls Online & In Store (2025)

By Sarah Miller · March 14, 2043

If you're wondering where can I buy table tennis balls, the answer is both online and in physical stores. Top options include Amazon, specialized sports retailers like STIGA or Butterfly, Walmart, Target, and sporting goods stores such as Dick's Sporting Goods. Online marketplaces offer the widest selection, including international brands, while local stores provide immediate availability and the ability to inspect quality before purchase.

Where to Buy Table Tennis Balls: Best Options Compared

Finding high-quality table tennis balls depends on your needs—whether for casual play, training, or official competition. Here are the most reliable places to buy them.

Online Retailers

Amazon: Offers a vast range of table tennis balls, from budget-friendly 3-star sets to ITTF-approved 3-star competition balls by brands like Nittaku, Butterfly, and Double Happiness.
STIGA.com: A premium brand store selling professional-grade balls with detailed product specs and durability ratings.
Butterfly USA: Ideal for serious players, offering ITTF-approved balls used in tournaments.
PingSunday: A niche e-commerce site focused solely on table tennis equipment, often with bulk discounts.

Brick-and-Mortar Stores

Walmart & Target: Carry basic table tennis ball packs (usually 3-star) suitable for home or recreational use.
Dick's Sporting Goods: Stocks well-known brands and often has beginner kits that include balls, paddles, and nets.
Sports specialty shops: Local table tennis clubs or pro shops may carry tournament-grade balls and offer expert advice.

What to Look for When Buying Table Tennis Balls

Not all table tennis balls are equal. Consider these factors before purchasing:

Key Buying Criteria

ITTF Approval: Essential for competitive play; ensures uniform size, weight, and bounce.
Star Rating (1–3): Indicates quality—3-star is highest, used in tournaments.
Material: Modern balls are made from celluloid-free plastic (ABS), which is more durable and safer.
Diameter: Standard is 40+ mm since 2014; older 38mm balls are obsolete.
Color: Orange or white, depending on table color and lighting conditions.

Brand	Model	Star Rating	Material	Price per Ball (USD)	ITTF Approved
Nittaku	40+ Premium	3	ABS Plastic	$0.75	Yes
Butterfly	GamEvo 40+	3	ABS Plastic	$0.80	Yes
Double Happiness	DHS D40+	3	ABS Plastic	$0.60	Yes
STIGA	Pro 40+	3	ABS Plastic	$0.70	Yes
Yinhe	R40+	3	ABS Plastic	$0.50	Yes

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that 3-star ABS plastic balls dominate the market, with prices ranging from $0.50 to $0.80 per ball. Nittaku and Butterfly command premium pricing due to brand reputation and consistency in tournament settings. DHS offers excellent value for money with ITTF approval at a lower cost.

Best Table Tennis Balls for Different Use Cases

Casual Play

Opt for affordable 1- or 2-star balls from Walmart or multipacks on Amazon. These are ideal for backyard games or family use.

Training & Coaching

Use 3-star ITTF-approved balls like Butterfly GamEvo or STIGA Pro 40+. Consistent bounce and durability make them perfect for repetitive drills.

Competition

Only ITTF-approved 3-star balls should be used. Nittaku 40+ Premium is the official ball of the ITTF and used in World Championships.

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Buy Table Tennis Balls

Where can I buy official tournament table tennis balls?

You can buy official ITTF-approved table tennis balls from brands like Nittaku, Butterfly, and DHS directly on their websites, through Amazon, or at authorized dealers such as TableTennis.com. The Nittaku 40+ Premium is the official ball used in ITTF events.

Can I buy table tennis balls at Walmart or Target?

Yes, both Walmart and Target sell table tennis balls, typically 3-star packs from brands like Franklin or generic labels. These are suitable for recreational play but may not meet tournament standards.

Are ABS plastic balls better than celluloid?

Yes, ABS plastic balls are now standard. They are more durable, safer (non-flammable), and have consistent bounce. Since 2014, the ITTF has required ABS (40+ mm) balls for all sanctioned events.

How much do quality table tennis balls cost?

High-quality 3-star ITTF-approved balls cost between $0.50 and $0.80 each. A pack of 6 costs $3–$5, while bulk boxes (100 balls) range from $50 to $80 depending on the brand.

Do online stores offer bulk discounts on table tennis balls?

Yes, many online retailers like Amazon, STIGA, and PingSunday offer bulk pricing. For example, a box of 100 DHS D40+ balls costs around $50, reducing the per-ball price significantly compared to retail packs.