Research-backed
Image: MomJunction Design Team
One of the most underestimated pieces of furniture in a house is an end table. This table can hold everyday objects and deserve a space even in the busiest room. Read on to know our picks of the best end tables. These tables have a simplistic design and can be substituted for a coffee or tea serving table. Some can even hold your collections, souvenirs, or magazines. Although simple, they can enhance the appearance of a room.
Janna Robinson, an interior designer and lifestyle technology design expert, says, “End tables are typically placed at the end of furniture, with their height as tall as the arm of a standard sofa or chair. They come in different shapes, sizes, and heights and can be strategically positioned in different ways and in different areas in the home to serve both functional and decorative purposes.”
Here are a few tried-and-tested end tables that you might like. We have also listed the pros and cons of each table to help you decide better.
Top Picks
11 Best End Tables And Side Tables For Every Room In 2024
1. Best For Dual-Use:Furinno Simplistic End Table
If you’re on the lookout for some of the best modern end tables out there, then this product by Furrinno should be right up your alley. This product is available in a set of two, so you need to purchase two end tables together at any given point of time. The end tables are made of PVC tubes combined with CARB compliant composite wood. The overall assembly procedure takes about five minutes. You can effortlessly use the table as a nightstand or as an indoor plant stand. You may check out more about this modern side table in this review video showcasing a tester’s experience.
Pros
- Simple and minimalistic
- Highly sturdy and stable on flat surfaces
- Quite affordable
- CARB certified wood
Cons
- Lightweight table, may wobble
"I bought this table for the empty corner of my guest room, and it fits perfectly. Despite the simple design, it impresses with its utility and straightforward assembly."
2. Best Portable:DHP Rosewood Tall End Table
Image: Dhpfurniture If you’re searching for wooden end tables with storage options, then this product might be the best fit for you. The whole structure has been made of solid wood and veneer wood to ace the test of durability. It has two shelves for you to place your belongings. Furthermore, the table is extremely lightweight and portable and is an excellent option for those who want a table that is effortless to clean and maintain.
Pros
- Made of good-quality wood
- Can be assembled in very less time
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Narrow legs and classic design
Cons
- Not very sturdy
"I have this wooden table right beside the sofa, and it looks lovely. Despite its narrow, tall stature, it never tips over, thanks to its solid, sturdy build."
Quick tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 6,309 satisfied customers on Amazon have said good things about the product.
3. Best Minimalistic:Furinno Just 3-Tier Turn-N-Tube End Table
Image: Furinno If you are looking for a versatile and adjustable end table that can complement any room, the table by Furinno might be the ideal solution. The contemporary end table cum nightstand consists of three shelves, each having the capacity to bear up to 15 pounds. It can be used to store books, magazines, remote controls, or other small items. In addition, the contemporary design of the table with a black and grey finish makes it minimalistic and stylish.
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Composite wood and PVC tube design
- Tool-free assembly
- Rounded corners for protection
- CARB certified wood
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- May be wobbly
"This three-tier table with its sturdy base keeps my bedside items secure. The highlight is its quick, tool-free assembly, making it a convenient addition to my space."
Furinno Simplistic End Table Best For Dual-Use | DHP Rosewood Tall End Table Best Portable | Furinno Just 3-Tier Turn-N-Tube End Table Best Minimalistic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.3 Pounds | 8.5 pounds | 7 Pounds |
| Shape | Square | Rectangular | Rectangular |
| Color | Espresso/Black | Coffee | French Oak Grey/Black |
| Dimensions | 15.6"D x 15.6"W x 19.6"H | 12"D x 16"W x 29"H | 11.5"D x 13.39"W x 22.8"H |
| Frame Material | - | Wood | Plastic |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 35,688 | 6,309 | 9,431 |
| Price | $33.92 | $44.48 | $13.6 |
4. Best Compact Design:Tangkula End Table With Drawer
Image: Tangkula The Tangkula end table features a classic design with a sturdy rectangular frame and solid legs for stability. The storage end table has a drawer to store your daily utilities and display space for decorative items. It can quickly become expert-approved as it is compact and simple yet has an elegant design that blends in perfectly with any home decor.
Pros
- Weight holding capacity of 110lb
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in multiple colors
- Convenient knob
Cons
- Drawer may be a bit tight to pull out
- Wood might chip over time
"The table has a classic appeal to it and offers a decent level of sturdiness. It is also quite versatile, fulfilling my numerous furniture and storage needs, and blends perfectly with my minimal bedroom decor."
5. Best Easy Assemble:Vasagle Versatile Small Side Table
Image: Vasagle The Vasagle small side table adds a touch of elegance and modernity to your living room, bedroom, or office. Featuring a versatile design, this product can be used as a bedside table or end table for extra storage space. The table has a neat, understated design with a two-tiered display for your books and home decor items, and the clean, industrial look works well in any environment.
Pros
- Offers ample storage space
- Sturdy side steel frames with particleboard panels
- Can hold a load of 44lb on each shelf
- Easy to assemble
- Adjustable feet for stability on uneven floors
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- No drawers for storage
- May be smaller than expected
"I always wanted a simple, compact, and lightweight table like this. It's really easy to assemble with all the included parts and highly versatile for use in different rooms."
6. Best Compact Shape:Signature Design by Ashley Bolanburg Chair Side End Table
Image: Ashley Furniture Nicely built end tables with drawers are indeed very hard to come by, but this product makes it easy for you to purchase, with its beautifully placed drawer along with a storage cabinet just below it. The table comes with a distressed finish that looks very chic, and its compact shape allows you to place it in any room. Besides, the table has been manufactured using engineered wood and veneer wood and comes with USB charging stations along with two plug outlets. The drawer can be used to keep your devices from falling when charging.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Comes with a distressed finish
- Provides charging stations along with storage cabinets
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- May not be very durable
"The advantage of having this table is its functionality. Those built-in features like hidden cup holders and charger ports are highly practical. Its farmhouse charm seamlessly matches the existing furniture, and I like that it arrived pre-assembled."
Remember7. Best For Storage:Walker Edison Furniture Company Small End Table
In case you’re planning to invest in an end table that will help you complete your living room without spending an arm and a leg, this is undoubtedly a great option. One of the best things about this product is that it comes in a variety of finishes to complement your interior decor.
The tried-and-tested table has been constructed with high-grade MDF wood and laminated wood. You can either use this table as a nightstand beside your bed or use it as a side/ end table. Moreover, the table supports up to 50 pounds of weight and has two shelves to store your belongings.
Pros
- Has a rustic look to it
- Has exceptional build quality
- Compact shape and size
Cons
- Not scratch-resistant
- Thin wood panel
8. Best Elegant:Ameriwood Home Parsons, White End Table
Image: Ameriwood Home This square end table has a minimalistic yet adorable design and is perfect for small apartments and dorm rooms. It is made of faux wood and has been given an MDF laminate finish, making it extremely resistant to scratches and stains. Besides, the table is stable on most surfaces, is water-resistant, and can be cleaned with just a single damp cloth.
Pros
- Resistant to water and scratches
- Highly compact, lightweight, and portable
- Minimalistic style
- Requires minimal assembly
Cons
- Limited color and size options
- May contain formaldehyde
"Simple yet remarkably stable, this table is undoubtedly one of the most practical pieces of furniture I have. Though not the best for heavy loads, it keeps all my everyday items neat while looking decent. Above all, the assembly was so easy that I did it by myself."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 16,512 positive reviews on Amazon.
9. Best For Living Room:Frenchi Home Furnishing Round End Table
If you’re looking for the perfect small round end or accent table to be used as your telephone stand or a plant stand, then this product will be able to satisfy your needs. It comes in a variety of color options to complement your decor. The white table could be the best option if you want something lively and sophisticated as it can effectively reflect your wall lights and appear brighter. Furthermore, you can use it as a bedroom or living room end table due to its compact shape.
Pros
- Chic, modern style
- Comes in a variety of color options
- Perfect for bedrooms and living rooms
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Assembly process can be a bit problematic
- Screws may not be compatible
"This table charmed me with its lovely design and convenient size. Its ease of assembly is a plus. I'd recommend it for decorative purposes and light use."
10. Best Vintage Design:Vasagle Round End Table
Image: Vasagle The round side table by Vasagle comes with two finely crafted greige-colored shelves held together with a sturdy black steel frame. The top shelf can bear up to 66 pounds, while the bottom can take up to 22 pounds. You can place this vintage-inspired end table in any corner of your house to add a classic style to your decor. It can conveniently fit in your living room, bedroom, hallway, or next to the couch. In addition, the wooden side table comes with an assembly kit and detailed instructions for convenient assembly.
Pros
- Versatile design
- Robust and long-lasting
- Available in three color combinations
- Blends well with most types of furniture themes
Cons
- May be time-consuming to assemble
- May not be water-resistant
"It is my favorite piece of furniture in my bedroom. I like it for its functional and sturdy build and luxurious appeal."
11. Best CARB-Certified:Rolanstar End Table With Charging Station
Image: Rolanstar This Rolanstar’s end table includes two standard electrical outlets and two USB ports with a 6.5ft long power supply cord, making it easy to charge all your devices. This table with USB ports has a narrow body and features two wooden drawers, making it the ideal nightstand for offices, bedrooms, and living rooms. It is made of CARB-certified materials, and the open shelf offers ample space to store and display all the decorative lamps, figurines, or books.
Pros
- Universal rustic brown
- Includes assembly hardware
- Can sustain weights up to 44lb
- Aesthetic design
Cons
- Drawer might get stuck at times
- Might be smaller than expected
"This table's compactness is well-suited for our home as it fits into small spaces effortlessly. It has all the spare accessories required and comes with clear instructions, making the assembly a complete breeze."
How To Choose The Right End Tables And Side Tables?
Here is our quick guide to help you choose a suitable table for your room.
- Durability: Most side tables are made from wood or a strong synthetic material. Consider the wood’s durability. Some woods are more durable than others and will last longer. Ensure the material is scratch-resistant and sturdy.
- Assembly: While some tables come pre-assembled, others may require assembly. Check the instructions, the available tools, and finish for quick assembly.
- Design: You can look for an expert-approved end table or side table with a balanced design and a similar color palette or material composition as the rest of the furnishings in the room. For example, if your sofa and chairs are upholstered in dark leather, try to find a wooden end table or metal side table with a dark stain that will complement them.
- Function: End tables are usually placed next to sofas and chairs as a place to set drinks, books, lamps, and other personal items. Side tables are usually smaller and can be used for decorative purposes such as holding vases or plants. So, assess your requirements before choosing the table.
- Size: Ensure to measure the space where you plan on placing the table before making your purchase. You don’t want to end up with an end table that is too large or too small for the designated space.
Janna Robinson, says, “Have a plan as to how you want your table to function, and choose one that brings in balance with the rest of the room. End tables work best if they are a few inches shorter than the arm of your sofa or chair. Make sure you have enough room to walk around your table.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should end tables always match?
There is no hard and fast rule about end tables matching your room’s furnishings entirely. It’s a personal choice; however, similar colors or materials as your sofas or items in your room can help create a good aesthetic.
2. How high is an end table?
An end table is available in multiple sizes and heights. The important factors to consider here are if the table suits the height of other items in your room and if it is matching or contrasting according to your preference.
3. Can I use an end table as a coffee table?
Yes, end tables make excellent coffee tables as they have enough space for a small gathering or even daily individual use. These tables also make an ideal place to keep drinks, lamps, and other important items or books.
4. Can end tables be shorter than a couch?
It is a common rule that end tables must be within two inches of your couch or sofa’s arm (1). Taller sofas or couches will need taller end tables to compliment their height.
5. How tall should the end tables be next to bed?
It is usually suggested that end tables or bedside tables should be the same size as the bed, or a little bit higher. End tables that are too low compared to the bed’s height may look odd and feel difficult to reach out for, place, and pick up items.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John has done extensive research to bring you a comprehensive list of the best end tables available online. She is experienced in shortlisting the best furniture pieces depending on the buyer’s needs. These end tables are picked based on the material, ease of maintenance, aesthetics, and storage options. These end tables have good user ratings and reviews too. Sakshi also included the pros and cons of each product to help you make the right selection.
The Bottom Line
Decorate your home with a luxurious end table to elevate its aesthetic. To pick an end table, look for one that is sturdy and made from high-quality wood to prevent odors and termites. For reinforced tables, look for ones made from both steel and wood. You might have to avoid the tables with sharp edges to minimize the chances of getting injured. With its compact size and smooth finish, the Signature Design by Ashley Bolanburg Chair Side End Table can be a practical option. We also recommend the DHP Rosewood Tall End Table for its lightweight design and the Vasagle Versatile Small Side Table, which is easy to assemble and functional. The right one can blend in with most room decor and aesthetics, be it your living room or bedroom. Place decorative items or fun magazines on these end tables to make your room look chic.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using End And Side Tables?
Side tables and end tables are versatile and practical furniture pieces that add functionality and style to any living space. Their convenient size and design provide a surface for placing household and personal essentials. Explore the infographic below to discover the merits of incorporating these tables into your decor.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Height of End Tables
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/height-end-tables-85902.html
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