Buying guide for Best patio tables
Patio tables and other types of outdoor furniture are designed to withstand nature’s elements. You can expect good-quality patio furniture to last for years. If you need a table for dining on your patio or entertaining guests in your yard, there are numerous patio tables of every size and shape to fit your needs.
One of the benefits of buying a patio table versus an entire outdoor dining set is that you can economically invest in a higher-quality table that will last for years. Having a top-quality table allows you to switch out chairs or use existing seating rather than be concerned about having a precisely matched set. There are plastic, all-weather wicker, and wooden tables to choose from, as well as plenty of types and qualities of metal patio tables, too.
If you’re in the market for a new table for your patio, our buying guide can take you through the types, materials, and other factors to consider as you shop. When you’re ready to buy, take a look at our top-rated models.
Key considerations
Materials
Patio tables come in a variety of materials, including cast or wrought aluminum, wood, stainless steel, all-weather wicker, and wrought iron. You’ll also find some tables with a base and frame of one of these materials and a tempered glass top.
Aluminum: A cast aluminum patio table is made by pouring aluminum into a mold. These rustproof tables can have intricate shapes and designs, but they’re heavy and pricey. Wrought aluminum tables are manipulated into sleek shapes and reinforced for durability.
Wood: Wooden patio tables come in many shapes and styles. Wood requires a bit of maintenance every couple of years to maintain its color.
Stainless steel: These patio tables have a modern aesthetic and resist rust.
All-weather wicker: Patio tables made of durable synthetic resin material mimic the look of natural wicker but hold up better outdoors than real wicker.
- Wrought iron: This is a classic, durable, and heavy material for outdoor furniture, but it needs to be protected from the elements, or it could rust over time.
Did you know?
Glass tops for patio tables are made of extremely durable tempered glass. Tempered glass isn’t like typical glass. It’s manufactured to hold up to stressful conditions and harsh weather. If tempered glass does break, it crumbles rather than splinters.
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Features
Table shape
You’ll find patio tables of all sizes and shapes, including round, oblong, square, and rectangular. The size of your space may dictate the shape of the table you choose.
Tabletop
If you’re looking for something a bit fancier than tempered glass, consider for a patio table with a top featuring elegant scrollwork. Slats are another option that can be either rustic or modern based on the material of the table. For example, a table with a stainless steel base and a wood slat top may look more contemporary than it does rustic.
Adjustable feet
If your patio table will be resting on an uneven surface, adjustable feet can help stabilize and level the table. Adjustable feet add a tiny bit of height to a table, but it usually isn’t enough to cause any issues.
Umbrella hole
Not every patio table has a center hole to accommodate a patio umbrella. Smaller tables may omit the hole in order to give users more tabletop space.
Dual use
Some patio table designs build in extra functions, including a cooler to hold ice or space for a planter. Note that some dual-use tables tend to collect rainwater in their compartments, so look for one that has drainage holes.
Accessories
Umbrella: A market, adjustable, or cantilever umbrella over the table protects you from harsh sun and makes sitting outdoors more comfortable. Choose an appropriate size umbrella that doesn’t overpower the patio table. For example, a round 32-inch-diameter patio table would do best with an umbrella between six and eight feet in diameter.
Umbrella base: A decorative, heavy umbrella base keeps your umbrella stable. You’ll need the correct weight umbrella base for your table and umbrella. For a 32-inch umbrella on a small table, consider a base that weighs between 35 and 60 pounds. EliteShade makes an affordable base out of cast resin that would work in many scenarios.
Patio umbrella lights: Solar-powered LED lanterns, strings, or poles attached to a patio umbrella brighten up your outdoor experience and give your space a festive glow. OYOCO makes an affordable pole light with three brightness levels so you can customize the glow.
- Patio table cover: A heavy-duty cover protects your table from harsh weather, bird droppings, dirt, and dust, especially during the off-season. If you have a small, round patio table, consider Classic Accessories’ covering for a small patio table and chairs. It’s weatherproof and stitched with quality to protect your investment.
Patio table prices
Inexpensive
Between $30 and $50, you’ll find plenty of bistro or cafe patio tables for smaller spaces (think round tables with diameters of 20 to 32 inches). You’ll see tables with powder-coated metal frames and tempered glass tops or all-metal models. In this price range, not all tables have an umbrella hole.
Mid-range
From $51 to $99, the table sizes are larger, and you’ll find some with umbrella holes. You’ll begin to find tabletops with scrolled designs and tables with wicker trim on the rim. For those who want wood, you’ll see eucalyptus wood side tables for your patio.
Expensive
From $100 to $385, you’ll see full-size patio dining tables in all materials, including acacia wood. Cast aluminum tables with elaborately scrolled tops are found in the upper end of this price range. Umbrella holes are larger in this price range to accommodate larger-diameter umbrellas. Note that genuine teak dining tables are the priciest, costing hundreds to thousands of dollars based on size.
Tips
Try a freestanding patio umbrella. A smaller patio table may not have an umbrella hole in the middle for good reason: the table could topple over from the force of the umbrella moving in the wind. If you have room, opt for a freestanding tilting or cantilevered umbrella to shade the table.
Protect your deck. If you’re placing a patio table on a composite deck, put inexpensive protective footpads on each leg, and do the same with patio chairs. Doing this will eliminate the possibility of scratching your costly decking. Opt for felt rather than rubber pads, which may discolor composite. Or, simply place a decorative outdoor rug beneath your patio table and chairs.
Suit the material to the climate. When you select a patio table, be honest about what material will be best for your needs and lifestyle. While decorating your patio based on aesthetics alone is tempting, patio furniture is an investment you want to last for years to come. Choose a material based on the look, climate, and your commitment to maintaining the finish.
FAQ
Q. How do I determine how many chairs will fit around my patio dining table?
A. Buying a patio table is just like buying an indoor dining table. You’ll need to measure your space and your table. Take into consideration how your patio doors open and close, where the grill needs to be placed so no one is sitting too close to the heat, and the size of the seats. Also consider whether chairs with arms or higher swivel bases could fit comfortably underneath the table. Here are some examples:
A 27- to 36-inch bistro table fits two chairs.
A 40- to 48-inch round or square table fits four to six chairs.
A 54- to 60-inch round or square table fits eight chairs.
A 42 x 100-inch rectangular table fits ten chairs.
Q. What should I look for when buying a patio table cover?
A. Patio table covers can be made of stretchy spandex or other synthetic materials that prevent moisture from reaching the tabletop and table frame. Look for high-performing seams that will prevent tears and also prevent water from infiltrating the cover. To prevent condensation from developing underneath the cover, raise it slightly off the tabletop with a piece of plastic so there’s adequate airflow for water and debris to flow off the cover. Alternatively, you could look for a cover with mesh vents for breathability. Tie-downs and buckles will prevent the cover from blowing away.
Q. What types of patio tables get hot in the sun?
A. Patio tables with metal frames may retain heat when placed in direct sunlight. However when the tables are shaded, the metal quickly cools down. Aluminum furniture cools down the quickest. Iron and steel take slightly longer to cool down.
