If you’re looking for a tabletop foosball or mini foosball table, you are interested in choosing the best tabletop foosball table available. To achieve this objective, you’ll want to know what to look for when shopping for a mini foosball table.
It’s also important that you consider the most important features for your mini table to consist of. This will help improve your enjoyment and overall gameplay, regardless of how old the players competing on this mini tabletop game are.
In this piece, we’ll include a buyer’s guide. Here we’ll focus on the most important aspects you should consider when shopping for your foosball table. It will help you understand what you should look for when shopping for your table.
We’ll also compare the top 5 mini or tabletop options available for you to consider purchasing. These mini foosball tables are available on Amazon. You can find a great deal and we’ll also include customer reviews/ratings, to give you a better idea of what you can expect if you choose one of these tables to purchase.
The Best Tabletop Foosball Tables
It doesn’t matter what your experience level is, there are several great foosball tables you will find available online today. Some are pricier than others. However, you do not have to spend too much to find the best tabletop foosball table for your playing needs. Let’s consider these five tables when you’re looking for a great fit for your basement or rec room.
Portzon Foosball Table Mini
This mini foosball table features fiberboard (medium-density) and ABS material finishes throughout. You can expect a tabletop that’s well-built and durable. The material quality is pretty good for the price you’re paying for this table. What’s great about the lightweight model is that you can play anywhere that you have a tabletop. Desks, the dining room table, the office, or a rec room. It’s compact and easy to transport.
Features
This mini foosball table is detachable. You can play anywhere, and just reattach it to the box when you’re ready to go. It features rods with stainless-steel finishes, that isn’t going to bend or dent easily. Ergonomic grip handles also make the player maneuverability and control a little easier on players who get intense during a match. Anti-collision buttons also prevent you from getting stuck or jammed in corners during high-speed action.
Pros & Cons
The Pros Include
- The tabletop is great for families or intense competition with friends, you can play with up to four players comfortably
- The high-density fiberboard is mold-proof
- The ball, players, and scoring system are made of ABS materials
- The table is structurally sound and sturdy, so it won’t crack easily if you apply a little pressure on top of it
- You can play with the table’s legs assembled, or keep them off, for flat surface play
The Cons
- Customers have commented that setup/putting the table together is time-consuming
- Concerns with quality/integrity are also indicated by a couple of reviews on Amazon
- The table is compact, so playing with more than two people at once might be difficult
Hey! Play Tabletop Foosball Table
If you’re looking for affordability this is a great table at under $15. The players spin 360 degrees meaning you have a full range of motion during gameplay.
The space-saving design is easy to transport and carry around with you anywhere. The table is perfect for players of all ages. It’s compact so the kids can easily maneuver their players when they’re learning to play the game.
Design
You’ll receive two balls, the scoring system, and there’s a side, easy ball return setup after goals are scored. The table is about 20 inches long, so it’s best for one-on-one action; however, younger players might squeeze in two-versus-two. This table is lightweight and weighs under 5 pounds. This means you can easily transport it to any room of the home for family enjoyment on game night.
Pros & Cons
The Pros Include
- The compact size allows any young player to learn the game
- The price is lower than most other tables
- Players/teams are color-coordinated
- There are ergonomic, rubber grip handles
- You receive two balls and scoring system, which you wouldn’t expect for a table at such a low price point
The Cons Include
- The choking hazard; this isn’t intended for kids who are younger than 3 years of age, so parents should be careful if you have young kids at home
- A few reviewers indicate the materials are cheap and it’s not well-constructed
- Parts are fragile so you have to be careful during assembly and play
T&S Tabletop Foosball
If you want to spend a little more money, you will get a little better quality with this foosball table. It’s just shy of $60 on Amazon, so it’s still much cheaper than traditional tables; however, it is more than other tables we’re comparing.
3-Goalie Design
This table features three goalkeeper design. It’s 27 inches in length, so it’s almost 1.5 times as long as the other tables we have compared above. Your goalkeeper is color-coordinated, so you know which players you’re working with if you get caught up in intensive gameplay.
Design/Quality
The 27-inch long table features four attachable legs, a sliding scorecard, and players have distinctive features. Since the table is a little longer, it’s easy to accommodate up to four players at once; and, you have three ergonomic grip rods for controlling your team. The wood construction is stronger than other composite materials, and it won’t warp as other materials will. The small size makes it easy to store away the table when you’re not playing.
Pros & Cons
The Pros Include
- The material is sturdier than composite or fiberboard materials used in the other tables we’ve reviewed
- This table has ergonomic rods, grip handles, and a 3-goalie design
- The 27-inch size is greater than the 20-inch tables reviewed, so you can accommodate more people during games
- Your foosball table comes with the scorekeeping system
- Construction/setting up the foosball table won’t take too long
The Cons Include
- It’s not intended for adult players; although adults can play on the table, it’s best suited for kids
- Some reviewers suggest there are issues with spacing or misalignment after everything’s assembled
- In some reviews, customers also stated that they were missing parts so couldn’t put the table together properly
Squad Sport FX40 Table
This compact game is perfect for tabletops, basements, or setting up outdoors during a bbq or family gathering.
It comes with two foosballs, and the players are already assembled. They’re set up on the rods so you do not have to do much work to put the foosball table together upon arrival.
Size/Dimensions
This mini tabletop game is 40 inches in length. It’s about 20 inches tall and 8 inches wide; the weight of the table is just shy of 15 pounds If you’re looking for a compact, without compromising on the length/play area, this is a great portable foosball table to consider purchasing The rods have a chrome-plating covering the exterior. They also feature rubber-grip ergonomic handles. This allows you to grip tightly onto the rod for faster shots and greater spin action during play.
Players & Design
The players are color-coordinated You have a red versus blue team, so there’s no confusing who’s on what team. The net/goal is also realistic, it has the net backing, so it looks like a traditional soccer goal net. The table also has two goal boxes, with a goal return for each. The base has rubber pads below the table. This helps prevent marking or other damage to the surfaces you place the foosball table onto when you’re playing in different locations.
Pros & Cons
The Pros Include
- The lifelike appearance of the game is great for the true soccer fan out there
- The larger size allows you to get into the action and move around while controlling your foosball players
- This table’s 3-goalie design gives you greater flexibility and control while defending your goal
- You receive a 100% satisfaction guarantee with your purchase and can return the table for a refund if you’re not happy with it
- The 3.75-inch player height is also weightier, so you have more control than you do with other foosball tables and rods that are compact/mini
The Cons Include
- The colors are laminated finishes; this can wear and peel easily if you aren’t careful with the table
- The support beams can split/crack if you aren’t careful or apply too much pressure onto the table
- Some customers stated that the pads on the base come off easily, and the legs become loose after playing several games on the table
Mainstreets Classics by GLD
A final table we’ll compare in this list of the best tabletop foosball tables is the Mainstreet Classics.
This is the most expensive tables. So what sets it apart from other tables we’ve reviewed? There are a few things but are they worth the extra cost?
1 or 3 Goalie design
This foosball table has a 1-goalie design, in comparison to the 3-goalie design we’ve featured in the other tables reviewed. If you want full control and manipulation of your goalkeeper, you have it with this design. Your defenders can help block the goal and protect your team from being scored on. The ergonomic grip handlebars also afford you the perfect range of motion and 360-degree spin capabilities, for more intense action during play.
Material Finish & design
The table includes two foosballs, and sliding scoring mechanism, so you can keep track of how many goals you score on your opponent. There are a total of six rows of players, including the 1-goalie design we highlight in the previous heading. The table is 36 inches long, so it’s a bit smaller than the Squad Sports table, however, it’s elevated a little higher as well. It also has enough room for you to play two versus two, or play one-on-one depending on how many people want to enjoy the competition. There are also levelers at the base of the table, so you can make sure the playing surface is always even, no matter where you place the mini foosball table during play. This table weighs 22 pounds, so it is solid and sturdier than the other tables we’ve covered. There’s a ball return on both goals as well.
Pros & Cons
The Pros Include
- A large playing surface can accommodate up to four players at a time
- The levelers at the base of the legs allow you to adjust the table to the perfect height/even surface for competition
- The 1-goalie design adds another level of challenging competition for players
- It’s fairly easy to assemble
- The quality seems to hold up well and it’s relatively sturdy, in comparison to the other materials/tables we’ve covered
The Cons Include
- The price; this is the most expensive of the mini foosball tables we’ve covered
- Some reviewers indicate they received the wrong parts for assembly (two blue goalies instead of one red and blue)
- The legs/material peel and some customers have concerns regarding structural integrity; you have to apply force to install the screws, and this causes the wood/material to crack.
What to Consider: Choosing the Right Mini/Tabletop Foosball Table
You can’t pick just any table when you’re buying a mini foosball table. You need to know what features/characteristics to look for. Here we’ll cover some important aspects you should consider when buying your new mini foosball table.
Durability
Most people would believe that you can’t expect great durability or design with a mini foosball table. This isn’t the case! Yes, you are going to find cheaply made products. And, you’re going to find tables that will break easily or peel/chip, and have weak parts. However, you’ll pay a lower price for these tables. If you pay $15 to $30, don’t expect a table that’s going to last for 10 years, you’re not going to get it! If, on the other hand, you spend $50 or more, you can expect reasonable quality and durability.
Look for things like:
- Wood versus composite (try to go with solid wood if you can find it)
- Grip handles, look for rubber grips as this helps prevent moisture
- Mold-proof design
- Sturdy legs
Reading reviews online is usually a great way to learn more about what you can expect from the mini foosball table. You can’t always rely on what the manufacturer tells you, but you can trust online reviewers. So, find out about material quality, structure, and durability, before you select the table you’ll purchase.
Are there Safety Concerns (Young Kids)
If you have young kids, there’s always the safety risks, choking hazards, and other dangers you need to think about. Many tables will indicate on the label/box the age range. So, make sure you know what age group the foosball table is meant for. You don’t want young kids around the small foosball, or around mini parts, they can take off the table easily.
As a parent, you need to be mindful that the mini table, means you’re getting compact components. They are smaller than a traditional foosball table. So be careful, know where your kids are, and read the warning labels and instructions, so that you make the best purchase decision if you have younger kids in your household.
Handles, Grip, Ergonomic Design
You want to maintain control of your players during a foosball game. Therefore, grips and handlebars have to be easy to maneuver. When you’re buying a mini foosball table, look for those with full 360-degree rotation. Rubber grips or pads are nice to have as well.
The reason is that this helps prevent sweat and condensation while you play. You’ll have more control over your players because of this. The rubber grips are also waterproof. So, the table isn’t going to develop/form mold over the exterior surfaces with this finish.
Comfort and control are imperative for you to outshine your competitor on the foosball field. When you’re selecting a table keep this in mind. Make sure you test out the grips and choose something that fits comfortably in your hand.
The Playing Field
The word “Mini” is indicative that the table is smaller than a full-size foosball table. You don’t have to buy something so compact, however, that you can’t see the field of play. When you’re looking for a tabletop foosball table, make sure you know the dimensions before purchasing it.
You need to consider the length of the playing field. Anything 20 to 24 inches or longer, is a good size. If you can find something closer to 40 inches that you can afford, that’s even better.
The width of the table should measure between 8 to 20 inches. Remember, it’s compact and you’re playing on a smaller surface. But, if it is too small, you’ll barely have room to roam or move the foosball around when competing.
The height of the table should be 5 inches or taller. Some tables also include optional legs, so this can help bring the playing surface up a little higher if you’d like as well. Depending on the height of the players who will compete in the action, the height might not be as important as width and length.
If you’re buying the table for young kids, they can even play seated on the floor, so height isn’t really important. If you’re looking for a tabletop foosball table for the entire family, make sure you consider the height, so that adults and taller players, will feel comfortable while playing the game with their kids.
Player Configuration
When we refer to player configuration, we’re referring to the location of the players, and the color of the players. You don’t want to buy a table that has both teams wearing the same color jersey. Nor do you want a table that doesn’t differentiate your goalie from the rest of your squad.
So, make sure you find a mini foosball table that has color differentiation between the teams. Especially if you’re playing two versus two; you don’t want your teammate to confuse who’s on their team, do you? You’ll want to choose a table that makes it easy to figure out which player is on your team, and which players are on the other team.
Regarding the configuration, you also need a well-balanced table. If the player rows/rods are too close to one another, how are you going to guide your team? You can’t! Make sure there are at least a couple of inches between each row of players. Misalignment issues are common with smaller playing surfaces. Therefore, you should compare several tabletop foosball tables before you buy one, to avoid this problem when you bring it home.
1 or 3 Goalie Play
This design/feature is more of a personal preference for most players. Depending on the style of play you prefer, some tabletops have either 1-goalie or 3-goalie configuration. For novice and beginners, the 3-goalie design might be a better choice. Especially for younger kids; it gives you better balance, more control, and makes it a little easier to defend the goal. If you’re buying a table for teens or adults, the 1-goalie format is a good option. You can free up your hand and focus on playing on the field until the opposing team is approaching your goal where you’ll have better control to defend with your goalkeeper and the final row of defensive players.
Again, the configuration is something you’ll want to consider, based upon who will be playing foosball on the table. And, depending on the length of the table, if you’re playing two versus two, you might prefer a 3-goalie table, so both teammates have control of the defensive technique. Look at both options, look at the configuration, and see how the design feels for you. Every customer will have different preferences, so the design and number of goalies you choose, is more of a personal decision, as opposed to being a quality/structural concern you need to consider when buying your tabletop foosball table.
The Price
We can’t forget the price! Many people choose a tabletop foosball table because they don’t have the space for a full-sized table. But, there are many (most people) who choose a tabletop variety, because they are more affordable.
If you’re one of those customers who don’t have much money to spend, the price is something you’ll need to weigh when you’re selecting a new table as well. It’s important to consider the value, not just the price. For example, if there’s a $15 difference between two tables, but one has solid-wood finishes, rubber grips, and the table’s length is double the size of the inferior table, you might want to spend a little more and spring for the higher-priced model.
You don’t want the table to break apart the minute you put it together. So, make sure you compare prices, but also consider reviews (ratings), quality, and configuration. Value and price should be weighed equally when you’re comparing the right foosball table for you to invest in.
Our Picks for the Best Tabletop Foosball Tables: Overall, Affordable or Budget
Overall Best:
When you’re ready to choose your tabletop foosball table, which is the right option for you? If you want the best table overall, the Mainstreets Classics is the winner. You get what you pay for; this is the most expensive table, so expect the best quality. It’s the only 1-goalie table on the list, it’s maneuverable, and it’s the second-longest table we covered. If you insist on having 3 goalies then look at Squad Sport FX40 Table it is the next best thing and it has 3 goalies.
The players are well-built, the table weighs about 22 pounds, and the finishes are structurally intact. Some reviewers indicate problems with quality, however, at the mini tabletop size, you’re going to have structural issues with any table you purchase.
Best Budget
For the budget shopper, the Hey Play foosball table is a steal. It’s compact and is ideal for younger players. The quality isn’t the best, but for new players or those who are just learning the game, you can’t go wrong with this table. It’s pretty easy to assemble, compact, and you can play on any surface. It has scorekeepers, a 3-goalie design, and players are color-coordinated. For the price, you shouldn’t expect anything spectacular, but it’s playable for young kids who want to have fun in the family room and compete in their favorite game.
Best Affordable
For the best affordable prices table we recommend the Squad Sport FX40 Table. The overall quality and price just make it a great choice. That and if you want to have a 3 goalie setup then this is clearly the best option for you.
:What are the best maintenance tips for tabletop foosball tables?
To keep your tabletop foosball table in top condition, regular cleaning is essential. Use specialized foosball table maintenance products to clean the playing surface and rods. Check and tighten all screws and bolts to ensure stability. Store the table in a dry and temperature-controlled environment to prevent warping.
Recap
- Best Budget Table – Hey Play Foosball Table
- Best Affordable – Squad Sport FX40 Table
- Best Overall Tabletop Table – Mainstreets Classics