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The 10 Best Folding Tables of 2023

Perfect for all your entertaining needs.

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The 10 Best Folding Tables of 2023

Whether you’re planning a backyard party or big tailgate, or you often host game nights and are short on space, a good folding table is a must. When shopping for folding tables, you want to find an option that’s sturdy and easy to use above all else. 

“Folding tables are convenient for when you need extra dining space for guests or special events,” says Jennifer Morrow, Vice President of Department Merchandising at Home Depot. “They’re easy to set up when needed, as well as to clean and store afterwards.” 

To develop our list of the best folding tables, we spent time researching the category and considered factors like size, material, and sturdiness. In addition to Morrow, we also asked Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s Home Expert, Laurie Schaeffer, merchandise manager at Do It Best, and Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, about what to keep in mind when shopping for folding tables.

The table’s legs won’t scratch the floor thanks to the non-marring foot caps.

It only comes in one size.

If you’re looking for a folding table that is suitable for almost every occasion, this rectangular center folding table from Office Star Products is a great choice. Made with a sturdy powder-coated steel tube frame and a water- and scratch-proof resin top, it’s reasonably-priced, easily portable, and durable. The table also comes fully assembled, so you don’t have to worry about flipping through countless pages of an instruction booklet and can go straight to your gathering.

Another good thing about this folding table is that it can hold up to 350 pounds when evenly distributed across the table, making it a perfect surface for party snacks and beverages. And, you won’t have to worry about this table scratching any floors, as the legs have non-marring foot caps. When it comes to transporting the table, the process is made simple thanks to its lightweight and simple half-fold design, as well as its carry handle. 

Price at time of publish: $150

Open Dimensions: 72 x 29.5 x 28.75 inches | Seating Capacity: 8 people | Weight: 34.2 pounds | Material: Metal frame, resin top

It only weighs 26 pounds, so it’s very lightweight.

The white top may be more prone to stains.

For a quality folding table that won’t break the bank, consider this plastic option from FDW. Despite its lower cost, this table still delivers when it comes to quality and strength. It can hold up to 500 pounds across the table and can seat between 4-6 people, making it a good choice for backyard barbecues and crafting sessions. And, you don’t have to worry if you take the table outside, as the top is waterproof and has high-density UV protection. We also love that the top requires minimal effort to clean (although it may be prone to scratching).

This table is also equipped with safety features that contribute to its sturdiness, including a joint lock on the frame and a side lock. Plus, the carrying handle makes for a more pleasant (and safe) carrying experience.

Price at time of publish: $35 Open Dimensions: 70.9 x 23.2 x 29.1 inches | Seating Capacity: 4-6 people | Weight: 26 pounds | Material: Metal frame, plastic top

For a lightweight folding table, it is able to hold up to 750 pounds.

We wish its height was able to be adjusted.

If you’re looking for a folding table that takes strength to the next level, look no further than this one from Iceberg. Despite its weight capacity of 750 pounds and surface area of 24 x 48 inches, the table itself remains lightweight at just 23 pounds. So not only will it hold all your tailgating essentials (like a slow cooker, cooler, and portable generator), but it also won’t be a pain to transport to and from the game. 

Although the table itself does not fold, its 1-inch wide tubular legs easily do, which is beneficial for an easy carrying experience. And even if you’re just looking for a table to hold the drink dispensers at a family party or one for a more formal occasion, this table will do the job effectively and stylishly with its contemporary design. 

Price at time of publish: $100

Open Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 29 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 | Weight: 23 pounds | Material: Steel frame, polyethylene top

It’s made of solid wood, so you won’t mind leaving it out.

It’s small, so it’s best for decor and card games.

This folding table is a solid choice if you’re in the market for a wooden folding table that will elevate the look of any room. With a 32 x 32-inch surface, this table is the perfect size for holding bite-sized appetizers or playing card games. It is important to note that this table has a smaller weight capacity of 150 pounds, so we suggest not using it for holding heavier items if you want to keep your table and items in the best condition. We also love this folding table’s finish options—whether you’re looking for a cherry, espresso, oak, or fruitwood finish, each table is made with solid wood. 

Lastly, we love that since it is a smaller table that folds to 3.37 inches deep, it can essentially be hidden anywhere, including behind a couch or bookcase, when not in use. Although this folding table does not have a carrying handle, it is not difficult to carry as it is on the smaller and lighter side at 29 pounds. 

Price at time of publish: $138

Open Dimensions: 32 x 32 x 29.5 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 people | Weight: 29 pounds | Material: Rubberwood

It comes with a bag for easy storage and transport.

It’s on the smaller side.

Great for a camping trip in the mountains or your local state park, this compact folding table is the way to go. With an aluminum slat top and steel frame, this table provides the sturdiness and support that is needed when standing on uneven surfaces. Although this table is on the smaller side, it can seat up to four people, which makes it ideal for sharing meals together as well as holding a small drink cooler. 

It’s also easy to assemble with a “snap-together” design which allows the legs to be easily put up and taken down as needed. Most importantly, this folding table is extremely light, weighing just 10 pounds, and comes with a storage bag which makes it easy to carry along with the rest of your other camping supplies. 

Price at time of publish: $60

Open Dimensions: 27.6 x 27.6 x 27.6 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 people | Weight: 10 pounds | Material: Aluminum

It comes with four chairs.

It does not come with a carrying handle.

If a folding table for game night is what you seek, it’s hard to go wrong with this 5-piece folding table and chair set from Cosco. Made with cross braces and a steel tube-in-tube reinforced frame with a power-coated finish, this table and accompanying chairs are durable and sturdy, but won’t scratch your floors thanks to their leg tips. Plus, the table’s vinyl top is easy to clean with a wipe or damp cloth if one of your players happens to spill a cup of soda or gets some cookie crumbs on it.  

The folding chairs are comfortable thanks to their vinyl padding and molded backs, so you can rest assured that your guests will stay feeling good even during longer games. When game night is over, the table and chairs can be folded flat and kept to the side, inside of a closet, or wherever you see fit until the next one. 

Price at time of publish: $224

Open Dimensions: 34 x 34 x 28 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 people | Weight: 51 pounds | Material: Steel

This folding table is one of the sturdiest thanks to its steel tubing.

It’s one of the heavier folding tables on our list and may be difficult for one person to carry.

Whether it be for your next backyard party or tailgate, this 3-piece folding table set is perfect for dining and entertaining. This picnic table set can handle it all, as each piece has a heavy-duty blow-mold light gray resin top that is waterproof, as well as stain- and impact-resistant. 

Another good thing about this table is its sturdy steel tubing—you won’t have to worry about the table collapsing if someone accidentally bumps into it. Lastly, the table and both backless benches are able to fold in half with the legs tucked inside for a stacked and seamless fit into your vehicle. Just keep in mind that this table is heavy, so it’s not going to be as easy of a lift as some of the other tables. 

Price at time of publish: $158

Open Dimensions: 72 x 30 x 29.25 inches (table); 72.5 x 12 x 17.5 inches (benches) | Seating Capacity: 6-8 people | Weight: ‎58.9 pounds | Material: Steel tube frame, resin top

The table’s height can be adjusted to accommodate small children.

The table’s top does not fold; just the legs fold within the top.

Adjustable tables are favorable because they can be modified depending on what they are needed for. You can adjust the height of this Lifetime table at one of three intervals: 24 inches (which is great for children), 29 inches, and 36 inches. And, it can hold up to 350 pounds effectively and without wobbling thanks to its broad leg stance, flat surface, and weather-resistant finish to prevent unwanted slipping and sliding. 

You might be under the assumption that adjustable folding tables require lots of assembly, but not this one—there’s no assembly required. In addition to adjustable height settings, this folding table is equipped with impact-resistant corners and a safety locking ring to keep you and your table safe. It is important to note that only the table’s legs fold and not the actual tabletop itself, though. 

Price at time of publish: $80

Open Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 24-36 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 people | Weight: 24 pounds | Material: Metal frame, steel top

Its briefcase style is unique and easy to handle.

 Its surface area isn’t as wide as we would like.

Folding tables are great, but they’re even better when they’re as lightweight as this aluminum folding table from RedSwing. Although this table only weighs 8.6 pounds, it is still very sturdy and can hold lighter loads of up to 70 pounds. It’s also equipped with two adjustable height settings: 15 and 28 inches.

This table looks like a briefcase when folded, as it has a carrying handle on the exterior with two lock closures. However, once you open the table, it’s legs easily pop out—just make sure to push the latch for added sturdiness. Whether you’re looking for a portable table for your laptop or a table to have a quick snack on the go, this one can do it all while saving your energy when it’s time to pack up. 

Price at time of publish: $80

Open Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 15-28 inches | Seating Capacity: 2 people | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Material: Aluminum alloy and wood frame, MDF top

It can be customized depending on how many leaves are folded up or kept down.

This drop-leaf rectangular dining table is a wonderful addition to any small dining area. With a height of 29.53 inches and enough room to comfortably seat four people when fully extended, this table is perfect for small family dinners. And, this table's beveled edges and on-gate leg supports will enhance your home in the design department, giving it a more spacious and open look whether folded or unfolded. 

You can choose how many leaves you want to fold up or keep down depending on how much space you need or want to conserve. Either way, this solid wood folding table is a sophisticated yet affordable piece. Just note that assembly can be a bit tricky. 

Price at time of publish: $248

Open Dimensions: 47.25 x 27.5 x 29.53 inches | Seating Capacity: 4 people | Weight: 49.3 pounds | Material: Wood

Overall, we recommend the Office Star Products 6-Ft. Folding Table because it’s reasonably priced, comes fully assembled, and is very sturdy thanks to the power-coated steel tube frame and water-resistant top. Another great but less expensive option is the FDW Plastic Folding Table. For less than $40, this table can be used both indoors and outdoors and offers protection from UV damage. 

When shopping for folding tables, it’s important to take note of their size both opened and closed, as you want to know where you can store them when not in use. “Folding tables range from 30 to 96 inches and are broken into size categories,” says Jennifer Morrow, Vice President of Department Merchandising at Home Depot. “Smaller folding tables are 36 inches or less, medium-sized folding tables range between 36 and 60 inches, large folding tables span anywhere from 60.5 to 72 inches, and extra large folding tables are those that span 72 inches or above.” Depending on the size of the table you purchase, you will likely be able to comfortably seat anywhere from one to 10 people. 

However, “if you’re looking to buy the most popular size, that would be the 6-foot fold-in-half blow-molded table,” says Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s Home Expert. Tables that fold in half tend to be most convenient as they can be easily placed in closets, under beds, and other smaller spaces, adds Morrow. 

Most folding tables are either made out of plastic, wood, or metal. Each material has its pros and cons that should be considered. If you’re looking for a table with a more polished look, consider a wood folding table like the Stakmore Straight Edge Square Folding Table. “Wood folding tables provide a stylish, contemporary finish,” says Morrow.

Folding tables made out of plastic, though, tend to be more affordable. “Consider a plastic folding table when tailgating or dining al fresco,” says Morrow. Steel, aluminum, and metal folding tables tend to be the strongest and most durable. If you plan on primarily using your folding table outdoors, “consider weather-resistant materials like teak wood and powder-coated aluminum,” suggests Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

A folding table’s sturdiness can be attributed to several factors in its design, like its material and leg shape. However, “the most overlooked features are safety features,” says Morrow. “Be sure to look for a secure locking feature for the table legs.” Dent-resistant corners are also helpful. Manfredini recommends always checking the weight capacity of a folding table to ensure it will suit your needs and remain sturdy while in use. 

According to Laurie Schaeffer, merchandise manager at Do It Best, “folding tables are great for entertaining, catering services, special events, additional workspaces, garage sales, storage, and more.” With that being said, folding tables tend to be on the sturdier and stronger side. However, the material that a folding table is made out of will have an impact on its durability. 

When considering how high your folding table should be, it’s important to think about where and when you plan on using it. "You should determine the ideal height for a folding table the same way that you would for a regular dining table,” explains Kuo. “Measure your space and measure the chairs you're planning to use with the table. You'll want to be sure that the chairs you have in mind can comfortably be pulled in and out from under the table and that there isn't any awkwardness or discomfort when sitting."

With that said, it is important to note that folding tables are generally between 22 and 29 inches high. “The height of a standard folding table is similar to the height of a standard dining table,” says Morrow. If you want more options, go for an adjustable-height folding table like the Lifetime Commercial Adjustable Height Table.

It depends on the kind of folding table, as the cost is usually reflective of its size and features. However, the price of folding tables typically “range from $30 to $300,” says Morrow. On our list, the least expensive table is $35, while the most expensive options are over $200.

This article was written by Jenna Clark, contributing commerce writer for Southern Living. In addition to Southern Living, Jenna contributes commerce content to several other publications including Better Homes & Gardens, Tripadvisor, Women’s Health, and more. To develop this list of the best folding tables, she considered factors including material, sturdiness, and weight. To learn more about what to consider when shopping for the best folding tables, she consulted Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s Home Expert, Jennifer Morrow, Vice President of Department Merchandising at Home Depot, Laurie Schaeffer, merchandise manager at Do It Best, and Kathy Kuo, founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

The 10 Best Folding Tables of 2023

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