When we talk about a picnic, there are generally two alternatives in terms of the comfort that we will have. Either we sit on the ground, in principle on a blanket or a plaid, or we prefer to use a picnic table, which provides more comfort and possibilities. We have decided to offer you this buying guide to help and direct you before purchasing your picnic table through a comparison with complete tests and opinions. Indeed, there are hundreds of different models of picnic tables, with multiple shapes, sizes, materials, designs, and designs. It is therefore complicated to choose without having certain information and without having asked certain essential questions before the purchase.
Top 5 Picnic Table- Comparison
Image | Features | Find on Amazon |
---|---|---|
1. Heavy-duty tabletop 2. Perfect size 3. Indoor/ outdoor support 4. Durable support | Click to view on Amazon | |
1. Large Space 2. Portable 3. Easy to clean 4. Storage facility | Click to view on Amazon | |
1. Stable 2. Glass holder 3. Lightweight 4. Portable and easy storage: 5. Cleaning Easy | Click to view on Amazon | |
1. 2 in one transforming capability 2. High-quality construction 3. Space-saving design 4. Built-in Umbrella-hole 5. Perfect for a DIY project | Click to view on Amazon | |
1. Storage Basket 2. Easy to assemble and detachable 3. Multi-functional picnic table 4. Portable | Click to view on Amazon | |
Top 5 Picnic Tables- Detail
1. Best Choice
Plastic Folding Table
- Heavy duty tabletop
- Perfect size
- Indoor/ outdoor support
- Durable support
- Portable
Heavy duty tabletop
The surface of the table is constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a superior quality plastic that is 17% thicker than competing brands. Unlike other foldable tables that typically use resin, this table is made with steel. Its smooth curved design and soft finish provide exceptional comfort for your forearms, allowing you to work on it for extended periods. Additionally, it is effortless to clean.
Perfect size
The size is perfect for storing it after your needs This table is not too big or not too small or skinny. It is easy to roll up to a compact size on the left or right.
Indoor/ outdoor support
This table is versatile and can serve various purposes. It can be used indoors as a display table or for serving food, and outdoors as a dining or game table for events such as cookouts or birthday parties. Additionally, it can be used as extra counter space in the kitchen while baking.
Durable support
This table provides strong and reliable support due to its powder-coated steel legs, frame joint locks, and non-slip rubber feet, which ensure its stability. Although it is somewhat heavy, its weight is a testament to its high-quality construction, as it can hold up to three times the weight capacity of 300 lbs.
Secure lock
To prevent the legs from accidentally folding, the table is equipped with a safety lock.
Portable
This table is convenient to use, as it is simple to set up and dismantle. It includes a side lock and handle, which makes its foldable design easy to handle and transport, whether you want to take it with you on the go or store it in a small space when not in use.
OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 72″(L) x 30″(W) x 30″(H); Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Pros
- Portable
- Indoor/ outdoor support
- Perfect size
Cons
- The carrying handle seems too little for the weight of the table.
- The table cannot be rested anywhere while holding the handle because the two sharp circular thin hinges protruding out of the bottom will rip up your hardwood floor.
2. LESES
Large Space
This table comes with enough space for phones, books, and food. The height is perfect for playing cards with friends.
Portable
The table is lightweight and easy to fold. It is easy to move around with it and ever so handy. Perfect for the pool or beach.
Easy to clean
This table is made of canvas and stainless steel, durable and waterproof, and easy to clean
Stable Though lightweight, the table is very stable and easy to assemble. It is very easy to install and fold,
Storage facility
This table is equipped with a storage bag. It comes with a nice carrying case of great size. It is great to set things on and under the lower shelf. There is lots of room for snacks a holder for drinks, and an extra self for towels The 4 drink pockets came in handy! It is great for parties, camping, or outdoor events.
Size
Height 23.8in, perfect size for a picnic, beach, camping, barbecue, or travel
Pros
- Portable
- Large Space
- Storage facility
Cons
- It is not of super high quality.
3. INNO STAGE
Portable and Foldable Table
- Stable
- Glass holder
- Lightweight
- Portable and easy storage
- Cleaning easy
- Stable
The outdoor table features natural bamboo construction which is known for its durability and rich grain. The deeper and grooved design helps to keep food from rolling or slipping off।
Stable
The bamboo wine table can be put on most ground surfaces, even on rough rock.
Glass holder
Designed with two Carved cut-outs for securely suspending wine bottles and wine glasses above any surface, and one cut-out for a wine bottle. This feature is great for bars, picnics, or outdoor entertaining.
Lightweight
It is lighter (and less money because it is bamboo) than some sturdier wood trays I have seen at other sellers. The lighter weight makes it easier to tote along for picnics.
Portable and easy storage
It’s so easy to slip into a tote or backpack. Chrome-plated legs fold flat against the table for easy storage and transport making it just as convenient to take on a picnic or to serve a champagne breakfast for two in bed.
Cleaning easy
The metal legs are also a benefit because if you are on any damp ground or grass, the metal can be easily cleaned. it is easy to wipe clean and the bamboo, though wood, is more water tolerant and resistant than some other types of wood trays available in the market.
Stable
When the legs are up they do lock in place nicely and stay firm with no tipping as long as you are set on a level surface. This was a great price and it is really pretty
Size 14.8″X11″.
Pros
- Glass holder.
- Portable and easy storage.
- Cleaning easy.
Cons
- When collapsing the legs, can require a little strength.
4. Best Choice
Wooden Picnic Table
- 2 in-one transforming capability
- High-quality construction
- Space-saving design
- Built-in Umbrella-hole
- Perfect for a DIY project
2 in-one transforming capability
This table is designed in such a way that you can use it as a picnic table and also transform it into a garden bench allowing you and your guests to enjoy lunch or simply lounge outside.
High-quality construction:
t is made up of natural wood which makes it sturdy. It can accommodate 4 people when used as a picnic table and 2 people when used as a bench. These tables are great for four adults or six kids. The lightweight table gives you easy mobility
Space-saving design
This furniture comes with the combination of a bench and table together which makes this outdoor furniture piece perfect for smaller spaces of your backyard, patio, garden, or deck.
Built-in Umbrella-hole
You can set up the table in the sun with no discomfort as it comes with a 1.5-diameter hole in the tabletop/ backrest. This hole will fit most standard umbrellas. It would save you from the sun’s harmful rays Perfect for a DIY project The natural wood design is ideal for customization; paint it any color or style to help it complement any outdoor space perfectly;
Table Dimensions:
57″(L) x 54″(W) x 30.25″(H), BENCH DIMENSIONS: 54″(L) x 27″(W) x 33″(H); Weight Capacity: 380 lbs.
Pros
- 2 in-one transforming capability
- Built-in Umbrella-hole
- Space-saving design
Cons
- The bolts were not tapered well at the end, which makes it difficult at times to get the nut on it without cross-threading them.
5. WUROMISE
Storage Basket
A storage unit in the form of a mesh basket has been installed beneath the tabletop, which offers ample space for keeping various items. It proves to be highly convenient as one can store small gardening tools, toys, bags, mobile phones, and laptops within it.
Easy to assemble and detachable
This is an overall foldable table – a unique feature compared to other folding tables which can only fold the legs. You need a few minutes to assemble it.
High-quality material
This table is constructed with high-quality aluminum and durable materials to ensure its longevity. It has a water-resistant and stain-resistant surface, and its legs are made from strong steel, which makes it both lightweight and sturdy. The table’s surface is secured using plastic clips that appear to be durable.
Multi-functional picnic table for daily use
This foldable table is versatile and can be used for various activities such as outdoor dining, BBQs, using a laptop, or playing games. It is an ideal choice for events such as camping, beach trips, backyard BBQ parties, patio gatherings, and picnics.
Portable and easy to carry out
This table is simple to fold and assemble, and it can be conveniently stored inside a coordinating handbag.
Overall Dimensions
L 37.13”* W 21.57” * H 19.69”. Item Net Weight: 11.0 lbs.
Pros
- Storage Basket
- Easy to assemble and detachable
- Portable
Cons
- Not very significant.
How to choose the Best Picnic table
The choice of picnic tables depends primarily on the planning policy adopted by the public authorities, but also on the particularities of the places where they will be installed. Thus, stone or concrete models that require little maintenance are suitable both in places with high traffic and in isolated places. On the other hand, furniture made of plastic or composite materials is comfortable for children.
Wooden picnic tables, on the other hand, must be maintained regularly to maintain their aesthetic appearance. This is particularly the case with teak furniture, which needs to be oiled at least once a year to preserve its yellow color and oily appearance. However, it is also possible to let them age naturally and adopt a gray tint. This aspect of teak in no way affects its weather resistance.
The different types of picnic tables
There are 2 types of picnic tables: fixed tables and folding tables.
Fixed tables
Fixed tables can be divided into two categories:
First of all, there are the tables anchored to the ground. These are the tables that you are used to seeing at the edge of forests, at the edge of a lake, in motorway service areas, or in leisure centers. They are often very strong, made of concrete or wood, and fixed to the ground directly in concrete or sometimes with large screws in metal plates.
Then there are the picnic tables that can be seen in most gardens. They are often made of wood or plastic and are not intended to be moved, dismantled, or stored regularly.
If your picnic table is fixed, the lightest models such as those made of aluminum should ideally be anchored to the ground to guarantee their stability. For wooden models, opt for anchors specifically designed so that the feet are not in contact with the ground.
Folding tables
Folding tables can also be divided into two categories:
There are tables of which only the legs are foldable. These tables can be stored and moved, but on the other hand, they are not always easy to transport away from their usual location, because the size of the tabletop is quite large and will not fit in all 4-wheeled vehicles.
On the other side, there are tables whose legs and chairs can also be folded, but whose top is also foldable in half. In these cases, the table, when folded, sometimes has the shape of a suitcase and is often equipped with a carrying handle. This type of table is therefore particularly interesting to be brought and transported in a vehicle, whether for a picnic in a park or nature or to be used during your holidays at a campsite.
During the winter period, it is better to protect your picnic table, with the notable exception of concrete models. Foldable, the picnic table should be stored in a dry place. Fixed, should be sheltered under a protective cover, solid, waterproof, and adapted to its dimensions.
The essential elements of a picnic table
Before buying a picnic table, you should first ask yourself about the various points listed below.
Shapes and sizes
Picnic tables are distinguished primarily by their shape. The most common models have a rectangular top and two benches attached to either side of their structure. Versions equipped with a round, square, oval, or polygonal top are also available. They can be equipped with attached benches whose lines follow those of the top for a harmonious design. Thus, the round picnic tables can be equipped with round or semi-circular benches while the polygonal versions are equipped with several benches fixed parallel to each face.
The choice is made above all according to individual tastes, but still has practical consequences availability of space. Indeed, in terms of storage, square and rectangular tables can be wedged more easily in a corner when you are not using them. This is even truer when the tables are foldable, at which time square and rectangular tables can be stored very easily, while round or hexagonal table models will be less often foldable and, when this is the case, will take up more space. The round models accommodate more people with equal dimensions.
The dimensions of the picnic table must correspond to the number of people intended to sit there (the largest can generally accommodate up to 8), but also to the space you have available. Its dimensions must also take into account its volume and weight if you opt for a foldable model intended to be transported.
Some picnic table manufacturers favor the aesthetic appearance of their products to facilitate their integration into the environment. Indeed, this outdoor furniture intended for public spaces has a decorative role while optimizing the well-being of the inhabitants. Thanks to their style, they fit perfectly into the natural environment or bring the touch of originality that makes the particularity of the places where they are installed.
Size
You have to ask yourself where you will put or use the table and how many people will use it in general. Depending on whether you have a small balcony or a huge terrace or whether you want to take your table on vacation by transporting it in your small city car or your van, the choice will necessarily be different. There are tables with very small dimensions, which are used for wine tasting and whose length and width are less than 40 cm, and much larger tables, whose length can reach 216 cm and which can accommodate at least 8 people.
The materials
Two criteria differentiate picnic tables from each other: their material of manufacture and their style. Classic and Scandinavian-style models are often made entirely of wood and come in simple shapes. Some versions also have a metal structure with a wooden top and seats.
The choice of materials depends on your tastes, the use of the table, and your budget. Also, pay attention to maintenance requirements. Each material has advantages and disadvantages.
Wooden table
The table can be completely made of wood, in which case it is not normally intended to be moved, as wood is a fairly heavy material. It can also have only a wooden top and the structure and legs in metal, aluminum, or iron. The nature of the wood may differ.
Outside, a wooden picnic table blends naturally into the decor. Indeed, wood is appreciated for its aesthetic appearance and comfort. It is chosen from among different species, between treated European wood (pine, oak, locust, etc.) and exotic wood (teak, itauba, cumaru, etc.) which is naturally rot-proof. These different species are classified on a scale of 1 to 5 according to their resistance to humidity, insects, or fungi, from the worst to the best.
Their high resistance to heat and humidity makes them excellent materials for outdoor furniture. Local tree species such as larch, locust, or treated pine are also suitable for making picnic tables. It should be noted that only class 4 or higher wood species are used in the manufacture of table legs intended for permanent contact with the ground and humidity.
Exotic natural wood
The advantage of this type of wood (such as teak, ipe, Merbau, itauba, or cumaru) is that it is naturally rot-proof, which means that it does need to be treated to be resistant to water and fungus. This wood is generally expensive, as it needs to be imported.
European natural wood
Wood from trees such as oak, pine, and locusts needs to be treated to be rot-proof. Depending on the table model, it may require some maintenance to have a longer life and keep its original color (mainly oil and wax).
Composite wood
It is made partly of wood fibers and partly of plastic. It is designed so that it does not need to be treated or maintained.
Made of composite wood, made of wood fibers, and plastic, the picnic table is rot-proof, with no risk of splintering or cracking. It does not require any regular maintenance, unlike natural wood models, on which you will need to regularly apply a product adapted to their essence: wax, oil, stain, sober, etc.
These are in principle the most beautiful tables. They are also the best quality tables. They are in theory very strong and resistant. They are much heavier than tables made of another material. These are the most difficult tables to move and transport, as they are usually not folding.
Plastic table
Most of the time, only the top is made of plastic (and incidentally the seat of the integrated chairs if there are any), and the legs and the structure are often made of another material. These are usually the cheapest tables. Resistant to humidity and shocks, the plastic picnic table is lightweight and therefore easy to move. You can find them in all colors. They are usually not the strongest tables. Aesthetically, they lack a bit of elegance. It comes in many colors and does not require any particular maintenance, apart from a little water and soap. They have a shorter lifespan than wooden tables.
Concrete picnic table
With a more massive appearance, the concrete picnic table is distinguished by its solidity and its excellent resistance to bad weather, which makes it unnecessary to shelter it in winter. Due to its weight, it is particularly stable but difficult to move.
Some picnic table models include one or more elements that the manufacturer may have thought of to make your life easier.
Some picnic table models are entirely made of aluminum; others combine an aluminum frame with a plastic top.
Aluminum table
Aluminum can be used for both the top and the frame of picnic tables. They belong to the cheap picnic tables with plastic tables. These are the lightest tables, which allows them to be easily transported. Many models weigh less than 5 kg.
The aluminum picnic table is very resistant to bad weather (rain, frost, heat, etc.) and corrosion. They are not very resistant to shocks which leave visible marks quite easily. Generally speaking, they are the weakest. If you leave an aluminum table in the sun, be careful not to touch it, you risk burning yourself.
Some picnic tables are made of very resistant materials such as natural stone, reconstituted stone, or concrete to resist both climatic hazards and acts of vandalism. While some stone models seduce with their rustic appearance, others have a more modern style such as concrete public furniture. Indeed, high-performance concrete allows the manufacture of picnic tables with a slim design, but which retain the qualities specific to reinforced concrete, including resistance to bending and compression.
Recycled plastic and fiberglass furniture are also available. These materials can be molded into different shapes to optimize their decorative role. In addition, they can be declined in various colors to give them originality.
Choose a picnic table according to its use
For use as a garden table, the picnic table can be adorned with all materials, including the heaviest such as concrete, and all shapes. Its dimensions will be adapted to the available space and the number of guests to be accommodated.
For a mobile picnic table, opt for a lighter material, such as aluminum, but also a foldable and compact model. The ideal: a picnic table that takes the shape of a suitcase when folded. There are also separate models: the benches or chairs are not fixed to the table, which makes the whole thing easier to transport, but less stable.
Picnic tables also differ in their elements. While some have benches with backrests, others include benches without backrests. Versions with individual seats are also available. Some municipalities opt for picnic tables topped with a roof attached to their structure to protect users from UV rays, but also drizzle and showers.
Tables with built-in chairs
Some manufacturers rely on practicality to allow different categories of the population to benefit from them. Thus, some picnic tables do not have chairs and benches to facilitate access for people with reduced mobility. For others, built-in benches are available but do not cover all sides to leave free places for people in wheelchairs. Ranges with retractable seats can also be offered to users.
These are the so-called “suitcase” tables. These tables are the most practical if you want to buy and have everything in a single product, which will be easily storable and transportable. These are tables usually used at the campsite and generally intended for 4 people. On the other hand, these tables are often a little more fragile than the average. Consequently, they require regular maintenance, in particular, it is necessary to regularly check that the screws are tight. They may not be recommended if everyone sitting around is of large build.
Picnic table with individual seat
The capacity of an exterior is one of the selection criteria to be retained. For some models, it is determined by the number of individual seats. For others, the number seated depends on the dimensions of the table.
Tables with roller top
Some tables have an aluminum top that can be stored as a roll. The advantage of this type of table is that they can be transported easily in bags often provided by the manufacturer. It is, therefore, possible, for this type of table, to bring them on a hike.
Tables with space for the parasol
In summer, shading the picnic table is important, especially if you have opted for a material that heats up in the sun.
Many picnic tables have a hole in the center for an upright umbrella. Otherwise, you will opt for a deported or wall-mounted parasol.
We do not necessarily think about it, but the central hole to put a parasol can be an important element depending on where the table will be installed. Not all campsites or terraces are shaded and it is sometimes difficult not to be exposed to the sun.
The storage net
Some models of picnic tables, especially the very small models, are equipped with a small storage net located under the table that allows you to store several accessories.
Now all you have to do is find a basket big enough to carry all your food and why not a game of cards, hoping that the weather will stay nice! Otherwise, you can bring your cheap umbrella.
Space for a bottle of wine and stemmed glasses
Some models of picnic tables have a very specific use and this is the case of tables with holes or openings provided to accommodate a bottle or glasses.
Nothing prevents you, however, from choosing a pretty checkered tablecloth to cover your table, to having a compromise with the sacrosanct picnic on the ground.
Picnic table for Children
If it is children who use the picnic table, in addition to wood, plastic is ideal with its great ease of maintenance. It also allows you to opt for colorful models. Be careful, if you choose a picnic table with a lower seat, it will be perfectly adapted to the size of the little ones but will become unusable when they grow up.
As for picnic tables for children, they are characterized by the low height of their benches and their trays to optimize the comfort of the little ones. These pieces of furniture intended for public spaces can be tinted in bright tones to make them more attractive. They are most often found near play areas specially designed for toddlers. These children’s picnic tables can be made of wood or plastic.
Finally, picnic tables are distinguished by their method of installation. While heavy models such as stone furniture can be laid simply, others can be sealed with a concrete slab, for example, to resist both violent winds and attempts to uproot them. For other models, sealing is most often done by adding metal reinforcements to be driven into the ground or with wooden feet driven directly into the ground. Anchor bolts are sometimes useful if the bench needs to be fixed to a hard floor
Final Words
The sunny days have returned and you feel more and more like going for a picnic in your favorite place or on a random road.
Yes, but there you go, eating sitting on the floor with the only accompaniment of a checkered tablecloth, in your opinion, very little for you!
Picnic tables are urban furniture that allow the inhabitants of a city to enjoy public spaces and have a good time with family or friends. They are found in leisure parks as well as in public gardens or forests. Check out our slides guide for an overview of the investment needed for the price of a water park with picnic tables and slides.