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When it comes to underrated pieces of furniture that deserve more attention, the side table would have to be one of the most forgotten.
A quality outdoor patio side table gives you somewhere to rest snacks, drinks, books, and whatever else it is you like to do while relaxing outdoors, so getting it right is essential.
What is the best patio side table style to get?
Patio side tables come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, so it’s best to choose one that matches the design aesthetic and purpose of your patio.
You’ll want it to be durable enough to withstand the outdoors but also functional and stylish, and ticking all of these boxes can be a challenge.
To make your search for the best patio side table easier, we’ve hand-picked some of our favorite choices and evaluated their worth for your outdoor haven.
Whatever your requirements, be it a round patio side table or something affordable and stylish, you can guarantee we’ve found it.
Every patio deserves a side table, whether you want to have it resting comfortably at the end of your sofa or acting as the centerpiece of the outdoor setting.
We’ve reviewed some of the most affordable and stylish side tables to do your patio proud, so check out what the best of the best has to offer.
Winner: Amagabeli Garden and Home Metal Side Table
- Material: Steel alloy
- Shape: Round
- Weight: 10.25lbs
The Amagabeli Metal Side Table proves that furniture can be fun and practical at the same time, and the patio side table metal construction means it’s durable as well.
This powder-coated metal side table comes in five retro colors including light blue, lime green, yellow, and mint green, and weighs just a little over 10lbs in total.
The weight capacity of this table is 110lbs which surprised a lot of people and meant it could hold even your heavier outdoor accessories without a fuss.
This is thanks to the alloy steel frame that keeps it upright, but with a powder coating on it and bright color that makes it attractive and vibrant, so it’s not just strong.
Customers also loved the unique look of these tables, each color with a retro feel that adds some liveliness to their patio.
There are five colors to choose from as well, so you can choose the perfect fit for the rest of your outdoor décor, and it’s a lot more inviting than a boring black patio side table.
The powder coating makes it stain resistant as well, so it’s easy to keep clean and vibrant.
This is a small patio side table, so make sure you check the measurements before jumping in and choosing it for your outdoor setting.
Some customers were disappointed to find how small the surface area was on their Amagabeli Garden and Home Side Table, and if you plan on having lots of books, snacks, and drinks on your patio, it’s probably not the best idea, unless you buy two or more.
Another potential drawback is that you can’t keep it stored in direct sunlight permanently, otherwise the powder coating color will start to fade.
This would do better on a covered patio or in an area that only gets some morning sunlight. For homes with exposed patios, you’ll need to spend more to get something that’s more color resistant in these types of conditions.
The Amagabeli Garden and Home Metal Side Table measures 17 inches x 17 inches so it’s not that big, but the compact size will be a perfect fit for some patios.
The four L-shaped legs each have a plastic cover to prevent sliding and scratching which makes it the perfect choice for homes with delicate wooden floors.
To get the gorgeously rustic style Amagabeli Garden and Home Metal Side Table for your patio, head to Amazon for a great price.
The table is covered with a one year warranty and you can return it free of charge if you’re not in love with it when it arrives.
For a compact patio side table that brings vibrancy and beauty to any space, the Amagabeli is our favorite find.
Runner Up: Camco Folding Side Table
- Material: Aluminum
- Shape: Square
- Weight: 3.94lbs
Camco is a brand renowned for its camping gear, and if you’re looking for the perfect patio side table to withstand the outdoors, the Folding Side Table is it.
This aluminum table weighs just under 4lbs and can hold up to 110lbs of weight when it’s expanded, making it a serious contender for those who have more to hold.
Customers loved the portability of this table and how easy it was to move it around and enjoy it anywhere, so it’s not just for your patio.
You can take this table to the beach, camping, BBQ or anywhere you’re going without breaking a sweat thanks to the simple folding mechanism that lets it expand or fold up for storage and transport.
Another great thing about the folding patio side table from Camco is its durability.
While it might not be the prettiest addition to your patio, it will last for years to come and is perfect for the unknown conditions of the outdoors.
This is thanks to the durable aluminum construction that keeps it all together, so there’s no need to worry about bad weather or heavy loads breaking this table.
However, this durability comes at a price and means it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing patio furniture side table out there.
You’ll probably want to keep it covered with a tablecloth or something just to make it more stylish, otherwise, the aluminum design can be a little off-putting.
Another negative that customers pointed out were some of the pieces of plastic capping on the end of each aluminum bar would come off from time to time.
The best way to prevent this from occurring in the future is to glue them into place, but it’s a bit of extra effort, and maybe something you don’t want to do when you buy a brand new table.
The overall dimensions of the table while expanded are 24 x 19.5 x 20 inches, giving you lots of space to keep your goods on top.
When it folds away, the legs come down to give it a very compact 2-inch height, so you can store it easily anywhere.
The bottom of the table features a cross leg design for stability, and on uneven surfaces, it’ll still be steady enough to hold drinks, plates, and anything else.
The Camco Folding Side Table is perfect for patios and outdoor spaces, and if you want to get your hands on it, Amazon has it for the best price.
This table doesn’t appear to have a warranty period, which is slightly disappointing, but if it’s anything like the rest of the Camco camping range, you have nothing to worry about.
Alternative: Phi Villa Side Table
- Material: Metal
- Shape: Square
- Weight: 13.6lbs
Phi Villa has created a side table with strength and it’s one of our favorite picks for the exposed patio.
With an overall weight of 13.6lbs and dimensions of 19 x 18 x 19 inches, it gives you ample space and loads of durability to hold whatever it is you need on your patio.
This black table works with most decors and is simple enough to mix and match with whatever else you have on your patio.
The best thing about this table is how strong it is, and you can feel that as soon as you get it out of the box.
The durable metal construction makes it a lot tougher than most side tables and means it can take more of a beating.
Phi Villa promises that the powder-coated paint on the surface will last for at least five years as well, which is a huge bonus that you wouldn’t find with a wood patio side table or other water logging material.
Another great feature of the Phi Villa Side Table is that it cleans up easily and won’t get too damaged if it’s left outside in harsh weather.
This is thanks to the water-resistant finish that’s been applied during manufacturing that allows it to repel water.
If you want a patio table that you don’t have to give too much thought to, the Phi Villa delivers on this front.
Although it’s tough, customers did have some complaints about the stability of the table, which was entirely the fault of the adjustable screws on the bottom.
These screws were placed there to prevent the table from scratching the floor and being uneven, but they ended up making some of them unstable instead.
It’s easy enough to take them off if this is an issue with yours, but it could do some damage to the floor if you do.
Another downside to consider is the higher price of this table when you compare it to other basic side tables.
The main reason for the price tag is the durability of it and that it can withstand the conditions outside, so if you want something for a covered patio and don’t think your table will be left in the rain often, you can probably get a cheaper alternative.
The Phi Villa Side Table is covered with black powder-coated paint and is in a square shape with standard straight legs.
The table arrives in the box partially assembled and only requires a little bit of work to get it set up and being used on your patio.
If you want a simplistic patio side table that would work just as well out in the garden, the Phi Villa Side Table is a smart choice.
This durable table is available online at Amazon and is covered with a five year guarantee on the powder-coated paint’s staying power, so it’s a long-term investment you can feel good about.
Alternative: Christopher Knight Home Store Adriana Wicker Table
- Material: PE rattan
- Shape: Hourglass
- Weight: 7lbs
The Adrian Wicker Table from the Christopher Knight Home Store is a fan favorite for rattan lovers, crafted with PE rattan and weaved into a beautiful wicker shape.
This hourglass-shaped table measures 19.75 x 19.75 x 19.75 inches and comes in a beautiful dark brown color that will suit all types of patio décor and sofas.
If you’re a fan of the wicker style furniture, you’ll appreciate the look of the Adriana Wicker Table from the Christopher Knight Home Store, and it has a unique hourglass shape that makes it even more of a standout.
Those who had bought it commented that it complemented the rest of their patio furniture beautifully and added a touch of sophistication to their outdoor space.
Another great thing about this side table is how easy it is to put in place, as it’s already assembled and arrives ready to go in the box.
The overall width is the same as the height and it’s incredibly sturdy as well, so there’s no need to worry about wobbly legs or putting your drink onto an uneven surface.
For its price and size though, it’s slightly disappointing to learn this is polyurethane rattan and not the real deal, and you’ll be able to tell the difference when you look up close to it.
While it’s treated for outdoor use and would probably survive longer in outdoor conditions, it’s not what you expect to pay for a knock-off material.
Some customers also found problems with the surface and its inability to handle moisture which can be a major issue for plant lovers who were hoping to keep a pot on top.
Others mentioned having a piece of plexiglass cut to fit over the top so the rattan could be protected, but this will bump the price up of the Adriana Wicker Table even more.
The overall weight of the Christopher Knight Home Store’s Adriana Wicker Table was just 7lbs so it’s easy to move around as needed.
The wicker is handcrafted which makes it a lot prettier, and because it’s PE rattan, you can wipe it down with a cloth and water whenever it needs a clean.
The Adriana Wicker Table from Christopher Knight Home Store is the perfect choice for those who want the classy resort look on their patio, and you can grab yours online at Amazon with free shipping direct to your door.
Unfortunately, there’s no word from Christopher Knight Home Store about a warranty or satisfaction guarantee, but judging by the reviews, it’s a solid piece that will stand the test of time.
Alternative: Ball and Cast Accent Table
- Material: Ceramic
- Shape: Stump
- Weight: 22lbs
Ball and Cast have created a stunningly rustic Accent Table that’s designed to look like a real tree stump and it truly does.
The table, made with premium magnesia and ceramic, measures 14.17 x 17.72 x 16.93 inches in total.
There are three styles available, each looking like different types of wood, including natural, grey, and brown, so you can match it to the rest of your patio furniture if you wish.
Although the table is made of a type of ceramic and not wood, this could be seen as an upside for people who want to leave theirs out in all kinds of weather.
It’s resistant against water and won’t fade as quickly as real wood, so there are some advantages to choosing something that’s man-made instead.
The ceramic gives it a total weight of 22lbs so it’s very durable and you can rest up to 250lbs of weight on top of it without a fuss.
Another great thing about the Ball and Cast Accent Table is the look of it, and how well it fits on any patio that’s going for the natural or rustic look.
These types of wood tables have become a huge hit recently and it’s an affordable way to copy the popular style without having to break your budget.
The disappointing thing about this patio side table though, is that it’s pretty small, with a width of just 14 inches.
If you plan on having a few drinks and snacks on there, it’ll get crowded, so you might want to invest in a couple of the accent tables to scatter around the patio.
Another letdown was the fact that it’s not made of wood, even though it looks that way, but is actually created from a type of ceramic.
This means it can easily break, and if you’re someone who gets rowdy on their patio and likes to entertain a lot of guests, having a ceramic table might not be the smartest idea.
There are lots of other cool features of the Ball and Cast Accent Table, including the mini feet on the bottom that keep your floor safe, and the easy assembly that makes it ready for use straight out of the box.
Each piece looks slightly different so even with two, nobody will be able to tell it’s not the real deal.
The Ball and Cast Accent Table is the perfect fit for any rustic-themed patio.
To equip your outdoor living space with one or two, head to Amazon to check them out, and benefit from their free shipping bonus as well.
There’s no word on a warranty from Ball and Cast but Amazon offers a generous free return policy, so even if you don’t love your new table, you can send it back.
Patio Side Table FAQs
A patio side table can bring a lot to your outdoor space without being overbearing, and it’s the perfect spot to rest your drinks and books as you enjoy the natural surroundings.
If you’re still unsure about what this piece of furniture’s function and style requirements are, read a few FAQs to figure it all out.
How Tall Should A Patio Side Table Be?
The goal for any type of end table or side table is to have it within two inches of the sofa it’s sitting next to.
To get the best idea, measuring the height of your sofa and then look for something no more than two inches shorter or taller than it to ensure it’s within arm’s reach and looks aesthetically pleasing.
What Can I Use Instead Of A Side Table?
If you don’t want to purchase a side table for your patio, there are other options you might be able to source second-hand or around the house.
Vintage suitcases, crates, a vintage wooden ladder, or a large stack of books might work, otherwise, other types of a table like coffee tables and small dining tables might work.
Should Side Tables Match Coffee Table?
There’s no need to match the side table of your furniture setting to the coffee table if you don’t want to, but the materials and designs of the two should still match.
Ensure some level of coordination between the general style of the tables or at least some similar materials so that they blend well together in the room.
What’s The Difference Between An End Table And A Side Table?
A side table and end table can sometimes be used interchangeably, but the main difference between them is that a side table has a larger surface area.
This makes them suitable for holding more stuff comfortably, whereas the end table sits right next to a chair and only has a small surface area.
A Patio Side Table That Does It All
Side tables are unique pieces of furniture that offer just as much practicality as they do style, and choosing one for your patio requires a lot of thought.
Whether you want to keep it simple and sensible or go with something stylish and bold, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one by your side before.
