What Is An End Table?
Many people use the terms end table and side table interchangeably, but there’s actually a difference between these two pieces of furniture. Living room end tables are intended to be placed next to a sofa or chair. For this reason, they’re typically the same height as the arm.
Side tables, on the other hand, are often more decorative and meant to be placed against a wall. However, there’s nothing to say you can’t use side tables as end tables — or vice versa.
Best Classic: Andover Mills Adeline End Table
The Adeline End Table ($110) is a well-made and affordable piece, with details like turned legs and intricate paneling that lend themselves well to a traditional-style home. Made from solid and manufactured wood, it includes a lower shelf for storage. The oval-shaped Adeline Table comes in several colors to match your decor.
Best Farmhouse: Pottery Barn Mateo End Table
The Mateo End Table ($159) is made from solid pine and poplar veneer, and its subtle distressed finish makes it a good match for farmhouse decor. This end table has rough-sawn detailing for a rustic texture, and it’s available in two finishes. Adjustable levelers on its legs give it stability on uneven floors. A matching coffee and console tables are also available if you want a cohesive look in your living room.
Best Modern: West Elm Marble and Brass End Table
The eye-catching Marble and Brass End Table ($249) offers a distinct modern vibe with its mix of materials and unconventional form. The table has an iron frame with a bright brass finish, and the small rim on the tabletop keeps objects from being knocked off. In contrast, the pedestal base features pieces of white marble arranged in an X-shape for an eye-catching contemporary appearance.
Best Mid-Century: Article Amoeba End Table
The lovely Amoeba End Table ($199), crafted from solid wood for unmatched durability, offers a mid-century inspired form with tapered legs and a walnut finish. The simple table has a round top featuring visible knots and color variation for interest. It’s supported by three legs for a simple yet functional design.
Best Boho: Opalhouse Aloysia Rattan End Table
The Aloysia Rattan End Table ($80) is an incredibly affordable pick that features a cool hourglass form made from rattan — perfect for a bohemian-inspired home. The table’s rattan pole construction is light and airy, and its size is perfect for living rooms that are tight on space.
Best Rustic: Union Rustic Lohr Pedestal End Table
The Pedestal End Table ($146) offers a base of gnarled branches with a live-edge tabletop for an undeniably rustic aesthetic. Each one-of-a-kind table is handcrafted in Indonesia.
Best Eclectic: Anthropologie Bumblebee End Table
The quirky Bumblebee End Table ($248) is sure to earn compliments from your guests, as its bee theme is a great kitschy accent for an eclectic space. The brass pedestal-style base sports a bee hive toward the bottom, and the whole pole is decorated with adorable metal bugs. The top, a beautiful piece of honed white marble, provides an elegant finishing touch.
Best Unfinished: International Concepts Hampton End Table
If you can’t find a table that matches your existing decor, you can paint or stain this unfinished Hampton End Table ($100) any way you choose. The table is crafted from solid wood and sanded for a smooth finish. Its X-shaped sides would look great in a farmhouse- or transitional-style home.
Best Affordable: Convenience Concepts Oxford End Table
The Oxford End Table ($60), a top-rated budget option, comes in several fun colors. This end table feature two integrated shelves with X-frame panel sides. Keep in mind it’s made from medium-density fiberboard, so it won’t be as durable as a solid wood table.
Best for Storage: Signature Design by Ashley Laflorn End Table
The Laflorn End Table ($180) offers lots of cool features that make it an extremely functional piece for your living room. This enclosed end table comes in several colors, and the cabinet door conceals two inner shelves. This table also features a flip-up back panel that contains electrical outlets and USB charging ports, as well as a drawer with built-in cup holders and a slot for your TV remote!