How tall should an outdoor side table be?

When it comes to height, O’Brien recommends somewhere between 24 and 26 inches. “This height seems to fit with most seating pieces,” she says, adding, “I use that as a rule of thumb because it will usually fit comfortably with most furnishings.”

What is the best material for an outside table?

Hard woods like teak and acacia are not only the most common materials for outdoor tables, but they are also extremely hard and durable, making them able to withstand challenging environments. As long as you care for them, they will last for years. Synthetic resin is another great material because it’s low-maintenance, lightweight, and incredibly durable. And like wood, it offers a classic look. Metal materials, like wrought iron, for example, are extremely versatile and heavy (making them less likely to get blown around), but they are prone to rust, which means more maintenance for you.

How long do outdoor tables last?

When shopping for outdoor furniture, durability is always an important feature to look for. Aluminum and solid wood furniture are among the most durable options out there, but resin wicker and polyethylene can also last for a long time. “I suggest checking the manufacturer’s suggestions for the best way to clean and protect outdoor items,” O’Brien says. “If your outdoor furniture is under cover, it will last considerably longer, and if your table will be left outdoors year-round, it won’t last as long,” she continues. Confirm that the materials are water- and weather-resistant.

The 13 Best Outdoor Side Tables of 2023

Warm, sunny days are ahead, which means there’s more time to spend on your patio or in your backyard, reading a good book, enjoying an alfresco dinner, or simply sipping some iced tea. And whether you're furnishing a spacious backyard or a tiny balcony, incorporating a hardworking, functional outdoor side table is a good idea. Not only can a stylish outdoor side table upgrade your space, but it can also provide a much-needed place to set your drinks or snacks while also accommodating your candles or flowers.

Pamela O’Brien, designer and owner of Pamela Home Designs, says choosing easy-to-clean and maintain materials is important when shopping for an outdoor table. Tables made with metal, plastic all-weather wicker, and cement are good choices. “For wood, I stick with teak. While it will go from a warm golden brown to a grayed appearance, that can be charming,” she says, adding, “I have had some teak pieces for more than 20 years, and they still look and function well.”

No matter your style, price point, or patio size, there is a wide range of outdoor tables to choose from, and we rounded up the most stylish and functional side tables for your outdoor spaces.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Keter Side Table with 7.5 Gallon Beer and Wine Cooler

Amazon

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What We Like

3-in-1 patio table
Hidden cooler
Classic rattan design

What We Don’t Like

Rain can leak into cooler

If you’re looking for a practical and super functional outdoor table, the multi-tasking Keter Rattan Drink Cooler Patio Table is for you. Although it looks like classic rattan, it’s actually made from a durable resin designed to prevent rusting, peeling, and other weather-related casualties. But the real star of this table is the 7.5-gallon hidden cooler. With a quick pull, the tabletop lifts up 10 inches to turn into a bar table and reveals a hidden cooler that holds up to 40 12-ounce cans and keeps them cold for up to 12 hours.

When the party is over, and the ice is melted, clean-up is a breeze. Simply pull the plug and drain the cooler. Assembly is easy, too. With a few twists of a screwdriver, you’re ready to go. At just under 14 pounds, this table is lightweight (when the cooler isn’t filled), so it’s easy to move where needed. One issue we found is that even when closed, the cooler tends to collect water when it rains. Given the versatility, the price is more than reasonable.

Price at time of publish: $90

_{Dimensions: 19.5 x 19.5 x 22.5 inches; opened: 19.5 x 19.5 x 33 inches | Material: Resin and Plastic}

Winston Porter Wicker Rattan Side Table with Built-In Glass

Wayfair

View On Wayfair

What We Like

Great for small spaces
Good value for the price
Sturdy frame

What We Don’t Like

Assembly is required

It doesn’t get much more classic than rattan furniture. It’s timeless and elegant and ticks all the outdoor boxes: it’s durable, versatile, and lightweight enough to move easily. The rattan-and-steel frame lends stability to this table, and the mosaic glass tabletop is perfect for resting your drink, placing a candle, or serving appetizers to your guests. The lower shelf lets you put infrequently used items out of the way.

The glass is embedded in the top of the table, so there’s no need to worry about its security. Assembly is required, but it’s straightforward. One thing to note is that some reviewers mentioned that the screws don’t line up.

Price at time of publish: $83

_{Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 22 inches | Material: Wicker/Rattan with glass}

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

What We Like

Handcrafted
Whimsical design
Compact but not too small

What We Don’t Like

No two pieces are alike

The handcrafted Mabel Ceramic Side Table is the perfect perch for margaritas, lemonade, and other summer sips. Best of all? Because this glazed ceramic table is crafted by hand, no two pieces are exactly alike. The orange and blue color scheme adds a fun pop of color to any patio, sun room, or terrace, and the unique color, texture, and pattern variations make for a whimsical, statement-making addition.

The narrow barrel is small enough to snuggle into tight spaces, and at 27 pounds, it’s light enough to move around. Although this is an outdoor piece, it’s recommended that you cover it or store it indoors during inclement weather. Cleaning is simple. Simply wipe clean with a soft cloth.

Price at time of publish: $168

_{Dimensions: 17.75 x 13.75 inches | Material: Ceramic}

Joss & Main

View On Jossandmain.com

What We Like

Sophisticated hourglass design
Great height for an end table
Lightweight and easy to move

What We Don’t Like

The finish may peel if left in the elements too long

If you’re looking to incorporate a more modern look in your backyard, the Ilana Concrete Outdoor Side Table is a contemporary find that will elevate your space. It’s UV-resistant and a durable, long-lasting option for your outdoor space. Whether you’re using it as an end table next to your chair or nestling it between two lounge chairs, this piece will hold snacks or chilled drinks in style. Finished with an hourglass pedestal design, the table is a timeless addition to any space.

Weighing just 20 pounds, this side table is easy to move around, and at 20 inches high, it’s the right height to reach for that drink. While this is meant to be an outdoor table, the finish may peel if left out too long, so cover it or move it inside during inclement weather.

Price at time of publish: $115

_{Dimensions: 20.25 x 17.25 x 17.25 inches | Material: Stone/Concrete}

World Market

View On World Market

What We Like

Perfect height
Sturdy option
Easy to assemble

What We Don’t Like

The base can be uneven

With a pretty mosaic tile design, the Cadiz Round Outdoor Accent Table brings big style and drama to even the smallest outdoor space. Due to the handmade nature of this product, slight variations in color and pattern placement between individual tables are to be expected and are part of the table's charm. The table features weather-resistant black-finished steel legs that keep it sturdy to hold beverages, snacks, books, and more on the generously sized 16-inch table top.

Some assembly is required, but it’ll only take a few minutes, as you just have to attach the legs to the base. To keep the side table clean, use mild soap and dry thoroughly, and keep in mind that you should cover or store the table in inclement weather.

Price at time of publish: $70

_{Dimensions: 16 x 20 inches | Material: Iron and glass tiles}

Adams Manufacturing Plastic Quick-Fold Side Table

Amazon

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What We Like

Folds flat for easy storage
Light for portability
Weather- and fade-resistant

What We Don’t Like

The light weight makes it easy to knock or blow over

If you need an extra end table on your patio while entertaining or you like the ability to easily fold up a table and store it, the Adams Manufacturing Quick-Fold Side Table is a versatile option. This table is great for its durability, lightweight portability, and generous Adirondack-style tabletop size that’s large enough for food and drinks or for displaying a lantern or outdoor decor piece.

This table folds flat for out-of-the-way storage, and it easily supports up to 25 pounds. Constructed of a fade- and weather-resistant resin, this table can withstand the elements and is easy to clean and maintain. Available in 11 colorways, this table will coordinate with your existing backyard furniture, and it’s so reasonably priced you can buy more than one.

Price at time of publish: $38

_{Dimensions: 12.25 x 17.37 x 19.75 inches | Material: Resin}

Christopher Knight Home Selma Acacia Accent Table

Target

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What We Like

Affordable
Curved legs offer a fresh look
Durable solid acacia

What We Don’t Like

Wood imperfections seem common

This stylishly slatted Selma Acacia Accent Table adds coastal flair to your patio or pool deck. Made from weather-protected acacia wood, this affordable table gives you a place to set down your drinks and display a plant or citronella candle. The curved legs add a fresh design touch to the table, and the natural wood grain looks clean and elegant.

The solid acacia wood frame is strong, durable, and rot-resistant. It’s UV-protected, and although it resists moisture, it isn’t waterproof. You can periodically treat the acacia wood with oil to keep it looking good, but generally, you can just clean it with just soap and water. This table is lightweight and easy to move around, and it’s available in teak and gray. Some assembly is required, but tools are provided, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Price at time of publish: $43

_{Dimensions: 19.25 x 15 x 19 inches | Material: Acacia wood}

CB2 3-Piece Peekaboo Colored Acrylic Nesting Table Set

CB2

View On CB2

What We Like

Contemporary design
Sturdy and strong
They float in the space

What We Don’t Like

Care is a little high maintenance

Let’s be clear — we love acrylic! (See what we did there?) This vibrant set of molded acrylic tables gives a fresh, contemporary look to your backyard or patio. With classic waterfall sides, these space-saving tables nest together when not in use, which is ideal for small spaces. The clear acrylic creates a light and airy feel, but the cobalt blue, emerald green, and peony pink add fun pops of color. The 1/2-inch-thick acrylic is sturdy and strong.

Although acrylic is waterproof, it’s not ideal to leave these tables out in the elements as they can scratch easily; they can also soften in extreme heat. Avoid contact with sharp or abrasive items, and to clean them, dust them with a soft, dry cloth. We think the price is reasonable for such durable and aesthetically pleasing pieces.

Price at time of publish: $299

_{Dimensions: Small: 13.75 x 11.5 x 15.75 inches; Medium: 15.5 x 11.5 x 17.5 inches; Large: 17.5 x 11.5 x 18 inches | Material: Molded acrylic}

L.L. Bean

View On L.L.Bean

What We Like

Crafted from sustainable materials
Extremely resilient and sturdy
Compact but not too small

What We Don’t Like

Assembly can be tricky

LL Bean has always focused on getting people outside, so it makes sense that they also produce outdoor furniture. This All-Weather Round Side Table is the ideal size to complement your patio conversation chairs and chaise lounges. It can be used to display lanterns or candles in your garden and balcony, and it’s big enough to place your drinks, snacks, and your book.

Made of polystyrene material manufactured partially from recycled materials, this is a sustainable choice. We love the textured grain finish and the realistic wood-like look, and it’s actually more resilient than treated wood. This side table is heavy enough to withstand winds, and wet weather and extreme temperatures won’t damage it. Even if you leave it outside year-round, it won’t rot, warp, crack, splinter, or need to be painted. Cleaning is low maintenance, too; simply clean with soap and water. It’s also available in seven colors, from white to classic navy and green, so it should fit with any outdoor decor.

Price at time of publish: $129

_{Dimensions: 18 x 18 inches | Material: High density polyethylene}

AllModern

View On Allmodern.com

What We Like

Clean, mid-century silhouette
Sturdy metal base for stability
Designed to be used outside and inside

What We Don’t Like

Too much exposure to the elements may cause the finish to fade
Expensive

We love the simple lines of the pared-down silhouette drawn from mid-century designs, along with the added industrial twist with its textured, antiqued finish. Crafted from cast aluminum, it features a round surface and a sturdy round base, joined by a slender pedestal arm that flares at the top and bottom. An antique rust top and textured finish give this a well-worn look with vintage vibes. And since it measures 20 inches in diameter, it's sized to fit into narrow spots like your balcony or a small patio. It weighs just under 16 pounds, but it’s fairly solid.

The metal is UV- and water-resistant, but it’s recommended that you cover the table or bring it indoors during inclement weather or when not in use. At more than $400, this is an expensive option, but given the solid metal construction, you can count on it to last.

Price at time of publish: $418

_{Dimensions: 23.5 x 20 x 20 inches | Material: Cast Aluminum}

West Elm

View On West Elm

What We Like

Spacious storage area
Sustainably sourced solid wood
Beautiful weathered finish

What We Don’t Like

Too large if you have a small space

Need to stash your stuff? If you want to keep your toys, towels, and extra outdoor cushions stored out of sight, this square side table from West Elm has more than enough room to hide your outdoor necessities as the top lifts off to reveal a generous storage area. Made of kiln-dried, sustainably sourced mahogany and eucalyptus wood, this seaside-inspired table has a weathered finish that works in any space. This side table is larger than most, but if you have the room and need the storage, it’s perfect for you.

It’s available in three serene color options, from weathered gray to driftwood and reef, and there’s an option to buy a set of two. To care for it, avoid hard cleaners and clean it with a dry cloth. You should also cover it with an outdoor cover or store it indoors during bad weather.

Price at time of publish: $399

_{Dimensions: 26 x 19 inches inches | Material: Mahogany and Eucalyptus}

Pottery Barn

View On Pottery Barn

What We Like

Metallic finishes
Rubber pads on base
Very durable

What We Don’t Like

Gets hot to the touch in the sun

Fabulous meets function with the stunning Bermuda Side Table. The warm metallic finish will dress up your patio like a piece of sparkly jewelry. The unique hand-hammered pattern across the curvy drum-style shape adds some glam and interest to this piece. Crafted of aluminum, it’s weather-resistant and lightweight. The rubber pads on the bottom of the table prevent it from scratching your deck or patio.

The table may develop a weathered patina over time, so it’s recommended that you place it in a covered shaded area. It’s also necessary to store it in a dry area when not in use or during bad weather. The aluminum gets hot in the sun, so you’ll need to be careful touching it.

Price at time of publish: $399

_{Dimensions: 18 x 16.5 inches | Material: Aluminum}

Overstock

View On Overstock

What We Like

Bright, vibrant color options
Compact
Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

Height may be low for some

We adore this outdoor side table for its simplicity. This stainless-steel table's sleek, minimal design adds style and function to your backyard or patio. The vibrant colors add a splash of color, and with different shades from black to pink and even lime green, it’s easy to find the right table to complement your space. They are also affordable enough to buy more than one. The compact size makes it ideal for nesting between chairs and is lightweight enough to move wherever you need. However, the tabletop is big enough to place your snacks, a vase of flowers, and even a candle.

It’s also sturdy, and with an anti-rust and waterproof coating, you don’t need to worry about bringing it indoors every time it looks like rain. At just 18 inches tall, it may be a little short for some.

Price at time of publish: $39

_{Dimensions: 18.5 x 20.47 x 2.36 x 20 inches | Material: Stainless Steel}

Final Verdict

After researching the best outdoor side tables, the Keter Patio Table is our favorite. It’s reasonably priced, the table is extremely sturdy and durable, and it doubles as a beer and wine cooler. If you’re looking to splurge, the Volume Outdoor Square Storage Side Table is a great choice because it has plenty of room to store your extra cushions and towels, is made of sustainably sourced wood, and has a classic weathered finish that elevates any space.

Size and Shape

When shopping for an outdoor side table, consider the amount of space on your patio, balcony, or deck. It’s also important to think about how you plan to use the table to help you choose the right size. Some side tables may be only about 18 inches wide, while others may be 24 inches or more. Will it primarily be used to hold a drink or two? Or, do you see it being used more for entertaining and holding appetizer trays or other larger items?

While the shape of your table may come down to personal choice, the wrong shape can throw off the overall look of your outdoor space. Although you can’t really go wrong with square or rectangular tables, Pamela O’Brien, owner and principal designer of Pamela Hope Designs, says she leans toward round. “Most chairs and couches have a square profile, so a round table is a nice counterpoint," she says.

Material

Outdoor side tables are available in a variety of different materials, including solid wood, resin wicker, plastic, and metal. Solid wood outdoor tables, often crafted from teak, acacia, or eucalyptus, are beautiful and durable but will require some maintenance. Resin wicker tables, like the Adams Manufacturing Plastic Quick-Fold Side Table, are water-resistant and offer a lower-maintenance natural look. Plastic and metal are other good choices, but they may not hold up under the elements, so check with the manufacturer to confirm that they’re weather-resistant. Polyethylene plastic tables, which are made from recycled plastics, are very durable and water-resistant, but there is still a chance they can deteriorate after extensive exposure to the sun.

Style and Design

When shopping for outdoor side tables, you’ll discover a wide variety of styles, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find something that matches your style. Just as you would with any piece of furniture, consider pieces in the space along with your personal preferences. Mixing styles, colors, and materials is a perfect way to personalize your outdoor space.

Weather Resistance

Weather resistance is an essential piece in your outdoor side table performance. You want your furniture to be impervious to the elements and withstand the effects of weather conditions without becoming damaged or deteriorating over time. Weather-resistant outdoor furniture is typically made from teak, iron, or aluminum, like this hammered side table from Potterybarn. Weather-resistant outdoor furniture may require less maintenance as well. Protecting your outdoor side table when it's not in use can help it last longer. This will shield it from the elements to prevent damage or additional wear.

FAQ

How tall should an outdoor side table be?

When it comes to height, O’Brien recommends somewhere between 24 and 26 inches. “This height seems to fit with most seating pieces,” she says, adding, “I use that as a rule of thumb because it will usually fit comfortably with most furnishings.”
What is the best material for an outside table?

Hard woods like teak and acacia are not only the most common materials for outdoor tables, but they are also extremely hard and durable, making them able to withstand challenging environments. As long as you care for them, they will last for years. Synthetic resin is another great material because it’s low-maintenance, lightweight, and incredibly durable. And like wood, it offers a classic look. Metal materials, like wrought iron, for example, are extremely versatile and heavy (making them less likely to get blown around), but they are prone to rust, which means more maintenance for you.
How long do outdoor tables last?

When shopping for outdoor furniture, durability is always an important feature to look for. Aluminum and solid wood furniture are among the most durable options out there, but resin wicker and polyethylene can also last for a long time. “I suggest checking the manufacturer’s suggestions for the best way to clean and protect outdoor items,” O’Brien says. “If your outdoor furniture is under cover, it will last considerably longer, and if your table will be left outdoors year-round, it won’t last as long,” she continues. Confirm that the materials are water- and weather-resistant.

Maureen Farrar is a contributing writer who covers home design for The Spruce. To learn about outdoor side tables, Farrar spoke with Pamela O’Brien, owner and principal designer of Pamela Hope Designs. She narrowed her selections based on dimensions, materials, style, and weather resistance while aiming to include a range of prices and styles.