Automatic Mahjong Table Maintenance: Table Hacks and Tips

How Does An Automatic Mahjong Table Works? An automatic mahjong table is a modern and convenient way of playing the classic Chinese game. Designed to shuffle and stack the tiles for the players, it makes the game faster and easier. This type of table is becoming popular due to its efficiency and convenience, so players can now spend more time playing, and less time shuffling. In this article, we will seek to explain how these automatic mahjong tables actually works, so you too can have a better understand the mechanics of such a table. Each Auto Mahjong Table Operates With 2 Sets of Mahjong Tiles Each automatic mahjong table is equipped with two separate magnetic mahjong tiles set that are typically differentiated by the colour of tiles (For e.g. Green set and Blue set). Unlike the traditional Mahjong tiles, the automatic mahjong tile set features a thin slice of magnet that is integral to the shuffling process (more on that below). Both sets are in use at all time, and this is to facilitate continuous gameplay without interruption. As each game completes, it's set of tiles is swept into the shuffling mechanism and the standby set is immediately dispensed so players can play the next game instantaneously, with zero interruption. At this point, the machine will then be quietly shuffling the previous game's set of tiles and stacking them, preparing them in standby for the next round. The Shuffling Mechanism The heart of the Automatic Mahjong Table. The shuffling mechanism of an auto mahjong table is incredibly well designed and ingenious in application. With traditional shuffling, players often have to manually flip the tiles to face downwards, and then manually stack them into 18, 18 and 19, 19 walls. This manual process is both loud, noisy and time consuming in a traditional table - though players do attest to this aspect being core of a mahjong experience. With an automatic mahjong table however, tiles are first swept into the shuffling chamber beneath the UFO looking, flushed control panel plate. This is done by hand and it does not matter if the tiles are facing up or down. From there on, the tiles are shuffled by a rotating interior chamber with sweeping arms that ensure the tiles are shuffled cleanly and randomly. Next, tiles are fed to the four wall ramps (one on each side of the table, for each player) through a belt, magnet and sensor system. The belt ensures that the tiles are fed smoothly, while the sensor continuously count against the number of tiles that have been installed into the wall. As for the magnet, that's where the brilliance of an auto mahjong table lies. Through the magnet, the shuffler is able to repel, or attract the correct side of the magnetic tiles, so to ensure that tiles are installed into the wall face down. As magnets are integral to the operation of an auto mahjong table, it can also be impacted by the presence of foreign metal objects. This can happen when players accidentally pushes their coins, tokens or keys into the shuffling cabin. At this juncture, our Solor Mahjong tables are equipped to safely detect the foreign object and will stop operating to prevent any potential damage as a result from this obstruction. We've also written a comprehensive guide on what to do if your machine gets stuck like this. Once the tiles are completely stacked, that's when they are put on standby, waiting for the prevailing game to end so to deliver the next round of tiles. Stacking the Tiles: Diagonal Rollout vs Regular Rollout With regards to the way it's stacked, there are two types of auto mahjong tables: Diagonal Rollout and Standard Rollout. Diagonal rollout involves delivering the tiles to the playfield a a 30 degree angle to the table edge. This method is also known as Rollercoaster rollout due to the way it resembles the tracks of a rollercoaster. With diagonal rollout, players do not need to arrange the tiles before the game. On the other hand, regular rollout releases the tiles parallel to the table edge, requiring an additional step of arranging the tiles diagonally across each player. Apart from the minor inconvenience, Regular Rollout models tend to get jammed a little more, due to the way it's designed. Depending on the choice of Rollout, the table design and shuffling motor changes significantly. Which is why, you will find that most Diagonal Rollout table tend to cost a bit more, and can be a little thicker on the cabinet and motor. Having said that, the Solor Slimline table features one of the slimmest - if not the slimmest - cabinet in the market despite featuring a Diagonal Rollout (Rollercoaster) motor. This is one of the strongest attribute of the Slimline model. The Detachable Playfield Like the traditional mahjong game tables, an auto table also features a cushioned velvet like, soft cloth playfield that feels comfortable to touch, while facilitating the sliding and discarding of tiles. The main difference however is that, with an auto table, the playfield layer board is detachable, which gives owners access needed to service, maintain or even change out the playfield board after years of wear and tear. Auto Shuffling of Dices. No Mahjong game can start without a toss of the dice, which will determine who starts and from which part of the wall does the game starts from (Mahjong traditionally, is a game with a strong influence of luck, and hence, this process is culturally important in Mahjong). With an automatic table, the inbuilt dice shuffler ensures that players no longer requires the manual dices. In the Solor range of tables, players can also choose to use the fully silent digital dice option to keep noise levels low. The addition of these features expands the potential of the automatic mahjong table for players seeking a streamlined and enjoyable gaming experience.   LCD Control Panel And Wind Positions Finally, most automatic mahjong table are equipped with some sort of a control panel, which becomes the main source of control that the player interacts with. With the Solor Mahjong Tables, the Smart LCD Reader is capable of intelligently recording the dealer's position as well as the number of rounds that they have won in a row (连庄). It's also able to highlight the different seating positions of North, South, East and West (东南西北), making it easy for players to quickly take their seats during gameplay. Finally, the Smart LCD Reader also possesses the capability to detect the amount of tiles during shuffling, alerting players if there are any missing tiles in the set. This feature ensures that players have the required number of tiles to play the game fairly and accurately.   Conclusion By now, we hope that you have a visual idea of how an automatic mahjong table works, from shuffling, to sorting, and then to assembling the wall so to deliver the tiles immediately at a touch of a button. Players also get a high tech experience with regards to dice throwing and wind positions, while typically for a regular mahjong table, you will then have to ensure that you have manual dices while keeping track of the wind positions manually. If you enjoyed this guide, but are still on the fence if an auto table is the one for you, do check out other article that details the main differences and advantages of an Automatic Mahjong Table. Alternatively, you can also read our automatic mahjong table maintenance guide so to get a clearer idea of the upkeep of a table. Inspired? Check out our range of Automatic Mahjong Tables here. 

Nothing beats the charisma and entertainment factor of a good mahjong table at home. Whether you choose to engage in a friendly game of mahjong with a couple of peers or host a mini mahjong tournament during tournaments, knowing the minimum size for mahjong tables can help you curate the right one for your home, the players using it, and your playing preferences.   In this article, let's explore the smallest possible size of mahjong tables you can get for your home.   Table Roundup: Types and Minimum Dimensions of Mahjong Tables Not all mahjong table setups have the same recommended sizes and dimensions. This also means all the versions of mahjong table will have a different set of dimensions for its smallest size. Other factors to consider include the number of tiles used for play, the number of players typically playing, and the size of the mahjong tiles itself.   Let's understand the minimum size differences between a few of the most common mahjong table types you can find in the market.   1. Standard Mahjong Table These mahjong tables are designed to accommodate up to four players, with each one having their own space to freely shuffle and move around their tiles as the game progresses. Typically square in shape, these tables are the ones you might have already seen and normally associate with mahjong. However, with recent modifications, you might even get to see some rectangular shapes rise in popularity among these mahjong tables.   These tables usually have a felt-covered tabletop for a noise-reducing and seamless tile playing experience. With modern technology, some of these mahjong tables may also come with built-in features like drawers, upgraded shuffling mechanisms, and even drink holders.   There are two kinds of standard mahjong tables: the traditional ones originating from Chinese culture and the Western-conforming mahjong tables.   a. Traditional Chinese Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 28 x 28 inches (71 cm) Unique Features: Ornate wood carvings reminiscent to Chinese Culture   Traditional Chinese Mahjong Tables are the original mahjong tables that originated in China and have been in use since ancient times. These tables, often called "mahjong pai", feature a square shape with four sides. Most of these tables are composed from wood and specialize in ornate and intricate wood carvings around its table legs, corners, and oven its tabletop surface.   The smallest recommended size for traditional Chinese mahjong is 28 inches in both length and width. This gives players ample space to be comfortable while playing. These tables are usually smaller in length and width and smaller in height than its Western-style counterpart.   b. Western-Style Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 31 x 31 inches (79 cm) Unique Features: Simplistic design with above average game assistance   Western-style mahjong tables are designed to accommodate more players than traditional Chinese tables. These rectangular-shaped tables feature four sides and are usually composed of wood or synthetic materials like fiberglass.   Its smallest suitable size is about 31 inches in both length and width. This is slightly larger than its traditional counterpart because of the number of tiles used in the game. The American Mahjong includes about 166 tiles, while the traditional one only plays around with 144 tiles. These extra tiles can make it hard to play around a table with a size similar to the Chinese mahjong table.   Additionally, unlike traditional Chinese mahjong tables, Western-style tables may not have integrated drawers or racks for storing the tiles. Instead, players often use separate tile racks or trays to hold and organize their tiles during gameplay.   But one of the features that keep these four-player mahjong tables a cut above the rest is its high sense of portability and game assistance. Some even have built-in markings or grids to assist players in organizing their tiles or keeping track of scoring.   2. Octagonal Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 34 x 34 inches (86 cm) Unique Features: Eight-player game setup   Octagonal mahjong tables are one of the stylized innovations of the mahjong industry. As the name suggests, these tables have an octagonal shape, with eight sides and a central playing area where the tiles can be placed or moved around.   These mahjong tables are often made of wood and feature a sturdy construction. They typically have a folding or collapsible design, allowing for easy storage and transportation.   Because of their unique design and multiple player capacity (than usual), these mahjong tables have a recommended minimum size of about 86 inches across all it corners. This size allows players to sit comfortably around the table, providing a balanced and accessible playing experience.   3. Automatic Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 36 x 36 inches (91 cm) Unique Features: Enhanced gameplay due to mechanical systems   Paving way to modern technology, automatic mahjong machines get the right end of the stick for its electrical features and high-standard board. Also known as electronic mahjong table or electric mahjong table, the automatic mahjong table is specialized tables that automate certain aspects of playing mahjong. They come equipped with mechanical systems that handle tasks such as shuffling, dealing, and organizing the mahjong tiles, reducing the manual labor required during gameplay.   Shuffling, tile storage, and tile organization are only some of the automatic mahjong table's heightened features. This eliminates the need for a designated human shuffler and dealer and reduces the chances of human error during gameplay, as well as a more comfortable play experience.   Due to the mechanisms of the automatic mahjong table, the recommended smallest size for this table is about 36 inches in both length and width. This is equivalent to 91 centimeters. This measurement is just enough for players to play freely without comprising the built-in mechanical characteristics that come with these tables.   The only real fear automatic mahjong table owners have is the possibility of it getting stuck. But we got you! Should you find yourself in this predicament, check out the ways you can troubleshoot a stuck automatic mahjong table.   We also have another insightful article on maintaining an automatic mahjong table that might help you in the long run.   4. Foldable Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 30 x 30 inches (76 cm) Unique Features: Portability and quick setup for automatic play anytime, anywhere   Ranking high in portability when it comes to playing mahjong is the foldable mahjong table. These high-end tables can be easily folded and unfolded for convenient storage and transportation. These tables are popular among mahjong players who have limited space or frequently play in different locations.   Some of its key features are its folding design--which makes it easy to store it in cramped and narrow spaces and even transportation vehicles, its sturdy construction that comes with a secure locking mechanism, and its portability. They can be easily transported to different locations, such as friends' houses or mahjong gatherings, so playing mahjong is as handy as playing games on your phone.   At a minimum size of 30 x 30 inches, this specific type of mahjong machine is already at its maximized potential. This means it's ready for players whenever and wherever.   5. DIY Mahjong Table Minimum Size: 31 x 31 inches (79 cm) Unique Features: Customization capabilities for player and space preferences   DIY (Do-It-Yourself) mahjong tables are tables that are created by individuals themselves rather than being purchased pre-made. These tables are typically handmade and customized according to personal preferences, allowing for creative expression and affordability.   From materials and construction techniques to personalized additional features like cup holders and scorekeeping mechanisms, the sky's the limit with these tables.   Despite your freedom to play by your own rules when customizing your mahjong table, these tables still come with a minimum size requirement of 31 inches in all sides. Granted you will be using your own materials and finishes, this is the appropriate size to go bold or go bland with your design and construction. This is just enough for both gameplay and creative expression.   A Side Note While these tables are the well-known variations of mahjong tables available worldwide, you might find more versions specifically catered to a different culture or region. Mahjong is an ever-evolving sport that continues to capture the hearts of many audiences from across all age groups, so it's more common than not to find a specific type of mahjong that only your city sells.   In this case, talk to a designated professional on sizing, surface dimensions, and other features to keep your mahjong gameplay experience up to the max.   Size Matters: Choosing the Best Mahjong Table Surface Dimensions for Your Play Just like any piece of furniture like your rattan bed or your coffee table, determining the best size to get when purchasing a mahjong table at a reasonable price is essential for comfort, aesthetics, and of course, playability. These factors not only enhance your gameplay but also allows your personality to shine with your own mahjong table.   Keeping It Comfortable The size of the table directly affects the playing experience and comfort of the players. A table that is too small may not provide enough space for players to comfortably arrange and manipulate their tiles, leading to overcrowding or difficulty in gameplay. Conversely, a table that is too large may make it challenging for players to reach across the table or see the tiles clearly.   Finding the right size ensures a comfortable and enjoyable time for all players to play mahjong.   Keeping It Stylish With regards to home spaces, the mahjong table's size should also be in tune with the spot it occupies. This is why considering the available space in your home or gaming area is essential to ensure the table fits appropriately. A mahjong table that is too large for the room may dominate the space and feel overwhelming. On the other hand, a table that is too small might get lost in the room or appear disproportionate to other furniture pieces, like your upheld rattan mirror and sofa bed. Aim for table dimensions that complements the scale and style of the room.   In addition to size, consider the shape of the table that best suits your home aesthetic. Rectangular or square tables may provide a more formal or classic look, while octagonal tables can add a touch of uniqueness.   Remember, the mahjong table should not only serve its functional purpose but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. This is why it's vital to take into account the size, proportions, and overall design aesthetic of the room to select a mahjong table size that fits seamlessly within your home decor.   Keeping It Playable Number of Players The size of the mahjong table should also be suitable for the number of players involved in the game. Different mahjong variants can be played with different numbers of players, ranging from two to four or more. Having a table and surface size that accommodates the specific number of players ensures everyone has enough space to play comfortably and place their tiles without crowding the table.   Tile Organization The table should provide ample space for each player to arrange their tiles and have their own designated area. Tiles should be able to fit without overlapping, making it easier to view and access the tiles during gameplay.   Game Accessories You should also take into account the space required for additional mahjong accessories, such as racks, dice, and scorecards. Ensure that the table size allows for the convenient placement of these accessories without cluttering the playing area.   Final Words When it comes to choosing the right size for your mahjong table and board, comfort, aesthetics, and playability are all key factors that should be taken into consideration. Investing in a mahjong table that comes at a reasonable offer price and fits your space, style, and number of players will ensure an enjoyable gaming experience for everyone involved.   Keep in mind the minimum sizes per each type of mahjong table and the various tips discussed above when selecting the best size for your mahjong table.   Feeling inspired by this article? The Men’s Cave has a collection of automatic mahjong tables you might also be interested to browse through.

Solor Slimline Mahjong Table Review: Why We Think It’s the Best in the Market We all agree that Mahjong to be Singapore’s national pastime, but despite so, there’s still a lack of resources & information about Mahjong tables in the internet, with just a handful of companies in the region offering high quality mahjong tables. Today, our editors will be reviewing the Solor Slimline Automatic Mahjong Table, with an up close look at it’s features and quality of finish. Read on as we explain why we genuinely believe that the Slimline model is quite simply the best in class in the market.  If you still are on the fence whether you should invest in a Mahjong table or not, check out our article on the benefits you will get when upgrading to an automatic table. Slimline Automatic Mahjong Table: Dining and Foldable The Solor Slimline is available in two variants - Dining and Foldable. Each have their use case, so let's get started with an introduction to the difference. Slimline Dining Mahjong Table  The Slimline Dining variant fits right into your home with its multi-purpose design. Not only does it serve as a first-rate mahjong table, but it is also purposefully designed to easily transform into a sleek, dining table. This is evident with the use of 4 bolted cylindrical legs that provides a very solid and stable feel. And with the main feature of this table, the Slimline possesses one of the slimmest cabinets in the market which makes it comfortable for use as a dining table. This cannot be said of other models in the industry.  Slimline Foldable Mahjong Table If you however prefer portability, then the Slimline Foldable model is probably the mahjong table for you.   This foldable table allows you the privilege advantage of playing on a high-quality automatic mahjong table anywhere, everywhere. No space is too small for an exciting game of mahjong. The smart design features a 90-degree folding mechanism while easily wheelable for easy storage. When stored, the table requires a total footprint of only just 56cm x 91cm.  Depth of just 56cm.  Width of just 92cm.  This is the perfect table if your preference is not to have a fixed, permanent fixture with your mahjong table.  Solor Slimline Automatic Mahjong Table: Key Features Now that I’ve discussed the two different variants in the Slimline line, we’ll discuss what makes them so special. Let’s dive right into the key features that make the Solor Slimline table a top contender in Singapore right now in 2023.  Ultra-Slim Profile The main advantage of the Slimline is as it’s name suggest, it’s ultra slim body. This ensures sufficient legroom which is the main issue with older automatic Mahjong tables.  Just 10cm thickness, excluding 2cm chamfered edges.  The cabinet measures just 10 cm in thickness & 12cm including the chamfered edges - the slimmest in the market. Here’s a look at how slim it measures. With the slimness, some of us were also able to fold our legs while seated!  Comfortably fold your legs with a standard chair, unheard with most tables! The slim profile is particularly appealing to those who prefer a minimalist or streamlined aesthetic. It doesn’t take too much visual space, whether you choose the dining or foldable option. Aside from its pragmatic value, the slim design also offers an aesthetically pleasing design, that is modern and differentiated from the Mahjong tables seen elsewhere. The aesthetic appeal of the slim profile also makes it a pragmatic choice as a piece of furniture at home. This is especially so if you are looking to have your Mahjong table double up as a dining table. In which case, the Slimline Dining model offers both looks and functionality well wrapped in one.  Whether you’re looking for a foldable mahjong table or a dining mahjong table, you will easily appreciate the slimness of the cabinet as one of the most important factors in your purchase.  Beautiful Wooden Finish It used to be impossible for an automatic mahjong table to sit nicely in an interior, with its plasticky, loud finishes in gold, pink or red. But we have a game changer here.  A key feature of the Solor series is in its beautiful, Walnut finish that is designed to blend your mahjong table as a furniture, and is really unseen in competing models in the industry.  Stunning walnut finish matches to home interior. The elegant and modern finish truly complements a wide range of home decor styles. The choice of walnut wood is perfect, as it’s versatile enough to blend in a classic theme, but it can also conform to a modern-day style. Solor then tops it off with a smoked tempered glass base, which is a whole level of class above the typical steel pedestals that you find in regular Mahjong tables. This is yet another fine detail from the maker. Reliable Engine From a Reliable Brand Solor is a widely-renowned mahjong maker, backed by over 1,500 retail stores carrying this brand. It’s also one of the pioneers in the automatic mahjong table technology, and are listed in the Shanghai Equity Exchange since 2014. The Slimline model carries this tradition of excellence. It’s equipped with a highly reliable engine that ensures smooth and consistent performance during our tests.  The interior of the mechanism is also fully padded, which reduces wear and tear and ensures a quieter shuffling experience.   Fully padded interior. Even the belted areas are padded (not seen in photo) The table build and component parts are also secure and solid, which is a big plus and should not be taken for granted with any Mahjong table.  Working with the product, we also really felt the emphasis in quality throughout every component of the table. This really provides the basis of a long lasting table that is designed to serve the user for years, evidenced by the very good warranty program for Solor tables. Add that with the best maintenance practices done specifically for these automatic mahjong tables, and the superior quality of this table will surely last for many years to come. User friendly design allows easy maintenance.  We also like that the design is extremely user-friendly for users to open the mechanism up if they were to drop stuff into the shuffling mechanism by accident. Rich in Features While the quiet automatic shuffling remains the Slimline Mahjong table best feature, there are several other features that’s worth a mention here. a. Multiple Game Variations The Slimline allows for different playstyles, including for the 3-player mahjong variation, which is useful if you find yourself lacking the players to play the usual 4 pax game.  b. Digital Dice The Slimline comes with a mechanical dice shuffle function, but on top of that, also has a digital dice version that is quicker, fuss free and quieter than the physical version. Definitely a good addition.  c. In-Built Memory Tracker Letting technology keep track of the points for you is pretty convenient. But the Slimline further simplifies gameplay by also remembering the dealer’s position as well as the number of times the dealer have retained dealership. Yet another nod to the details. d. Rollercoaster-Style Tiles and Diagonal Rollout The diagonal rollout of the Slimline beyond being a sight to behold - the tiles elevate into the table like a rollercoaster, hence the name, is also a very useful convenience. Players no longer have to take the additional step of shifting the wall diagonally like that might have to do with the regular rollout tables. Lastly, Great Value How does the Solor Slimline fare against its competitors? While the Solor Slimline is undoubted slightly more costly than other models in the market, we think that the Slimline is truly justifies its price tag and more. This is especially so when seen in person.  Its overall performance sets it apart from similar tables available in the market, providing good value for money, especially if quality of finish and finer details are important to you. Furthermore, the comprehensive warranty can help you gain peace of mind, enhancing its value proposition.  Conclusion The Solor Slimline Automatic Mahjong table, available in dining table and foldable variants, is an exceptional unit in every way. Its smart features, like score tracking, position tracking, and tile counter help create a truly immersive experience. The focus on convenience didn’t take anything away from its beautiful craftsmanship and structural integrity. Looking to invest in a new high quality mahjong table? Check out our Automatic Mahjong range here.