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The 8 Best Patio Dining Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Fun, stylish, and durable sets for every outdoor space

RST Brands Deco 9 Piece Patio Dining Set displayed on a back porch

The Spruce / Lindsay Boyers

We love using our outdoor spaces for entertaining, so finding a great patio dining set is always high on our move-in to-do lists. To help us find the best options, we tested several sets in different sizes and materials in our backyards, decks, or patios, with comfort and durability in mind. Each set was also evaluated on ease of assembly, design, quality, and value.

The right dining set for you will be determined by the climate you live in, the size of your family, and the design aesthetic you lean toward. All outdoor furniture is meant to withstand the elements, but naturally, some work best in drier, sunnier climates, while others can handle mountains of snow and rain without issue.

We tested dining sets meant for 2-6 people, so consider who will be using your outdoor furniture most. Big families or avid entertainers should opt for a larger set with additional matching chairs available. These sets obviously take up more room than a 2-person bistro set, so be sure you also have available space in your outdoor area to fit a dining set with ample space to pull out the chairs and move about.

Lastly, once you find the right material and size dining set for your lifestyle, you're going to choose one in a design style you enjoy. Luckily, this list runs the gamut from colorful Regency styles to rustic farmhouse sets to modern, timeless furniture that never goes out of style.

We then gathered what we learned from using, maintaining, and storing the sets over several months and researched other options that matched our criteria to round out this list. Whether you have a huge patio and host parties all summer long or have a small balcony and prefer cozy dining for two, we found the best options for every space.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Better Homes & Gardens Wrought Iron Patio Dining Set

Walmart Better Homes & Gardens Wrought Iron Patio Dining Set, Clayton Court Cushioned 5 Piece

Walmart

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
What We Like
  • Affordable, durable, and sturdy

  • Comfortable chairs that slightly rock

  • Easy to assemble

  • Doesn't get hot to the touch

What We Don't Like
  • Cushions get soaked in heavy rain

After testing a variety of outdoor furniture, the Better Homes & Gardens Clayton Court 5-piece Patio Dining Set is our winner for outdoor dining (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith). Although we love almost everything about this set, the chairs were the superstars, providing plenty of comfort. In fact, we had several friends try them out as well, and they were equally impressed. While they are not considered rocking chairs, the chairs have a coil spring under the seat, so you can slightly rock in them. Plus, while arranged around the patio table, the chairs provide plenty of legroom and are easy to get in and out of. They can even fit completely under the table when not in use to save space. 

We also love both the weight and mesh style of the tabletop, which helped to keep it from blowing over during a wind storm with 61 miles per hour winds, since the wind could go right through it. During rainstorms, the water-resistant cushions only absorbed water in heavy rain (water beaded in lighter rain). However, once we removed the cushions and stood them up on a chair, the water ran out and the cushions dried quickly. You could also store or cover them to prevent them from getting wet and avoid the whole drying process. Although the cushions are not machine washable, you can hand wash them as needed. 

Thanks to the included hardware and clear instructions, assembly was even easier than we expected (about 64 minutes) however, you will most likely need two people to move and unpack the oversized boxes. Once the furniture was set up on our deck and left out on a hot and sunny day, we were pleasantly surprised that the set was not hot to the touch, like we experienced with other metal options.

It does come with a hole for the umbrella, so you can enjoy shade even if you don’t need it to keep the table from being uncomfortably hot. Overall, this round table is a great value and will be a great place to gather with friends on your patio or deck for years to come.

How It Performed Long-Term

We love this dining table just as much after two months as we did during our initial testing. The table, chairs, and even the cushions show no signs of chipping, warping, or discoloration. In fact, the chairs are so comfortable and the set is so stylish and well-made, that we find ourselves spending more time on our deck since we've had them.

Pieces: 4 chairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 4 | Material: Steel, fabric | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Finding the right size


When looking for the perfect set, keep in mind both the size of the set and where you plan to store it. Is it lightweight and easy to store (like our best budget option), or will it need to be durable enough to stay out in the elements year-round with the help of a great furniture cover?

Best Wood

Walker Edison Delray Classic Outdoor Dining Set

Walker Edison Delray Classic 6-Piece Acacia Wood Outdoor X Back Dining Set

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    4.8/5
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Extends from a 4 to 6 person table

  • Durable Acacia wood

  • Versatile seating

  • Slightly taller chairs

What We Don't Like
  • Chair backs are a little far back for some people

  • Slight warping after prolonged exposure

If you often have large dinner parties outdoors, but don’t always want a large table hogging up the space, you’ll love this set from Walker Edison. We assembled and used this set on one of our own decks for several weeks (and through several storms) in Iowa, and found it to be durable and sturdy. Made of Acacia wood, it can expand from a 4-person to a 6-person table and comes with plenty of seating including four armchairs and a bench. When the table is not extended, you can use the extra seating in other areas of your space. 

This set came in four boxes and took about an hour and a half to assemble. While we found putting together the chairs and bench to be a relatively easy process for one person (aside from having to pull back one piece of the chair to get it to fit), putting the table together required two people at times. We appreciated that the set came with a few extra pieces if needed, but it felt like some of the images in the instructions were a little unclear. 

The manufacturer recommends applying teak oil every three months to keep the set looking great. While we haven’t applied it yet, we did experience several rain storms and haven’t noticed any warping or changes to the appearance so far (aside from some puddles on the furniture). And even despite heavy winds, the chairs and tables didn’t blow over. Also note that after a week and a half of use, we did notice that the bolts on the chairs were loose and needed to be tightened.

At 30 inches high, we found the table was able to accommodate slightly taller chairs (the average dining table height is above 28 to 32 inches), so we liked being able to use our own glider chairs (at counter height) when we had extra guests. We did find the chairs to be comfortable for most of our guests, but some found that the back of the chair was a little too far back (although adding a pillow could help).

Also, we noticed that all of the chairs could not fit fully under the table at the same time (you can only fit the chairs fully under one side at a time). And although it could be an issue with our assembly, we did also notice that the table seemed to fit better with the leaf than without (the two side pieces without the leaf didn’t fit together as snugly) but that didn’t make it less durable or affect the use. Overall we think this is an excellent wooden option, especially when you want something that is versatile for bigger dinner parties and gatherings.

How It Performed Long-Term

We've continued to use this table daily over two months, leaving it out exposed on a deck, partially covered by an umbrella for most of the sunny hours of the day. The cushions and benches are holding up great, but we did notice slight warping around the sides of the center part of the table. However, the warping isn't noticeable when the table is extended to its largest size. While any warping is not ideal, we think protecting this table from the elements could help prevent it.

Pieces: 4 dining arm chairs, 1 bench, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 6 | Material: Acacia wood | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best Budget

The Pioneer Woman Goldie Garden Bistro Set

Walmart The Pioneer Woman Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set, Teal

Walmart

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Durability
    4/5
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
What We Like
  • Bright color

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Sturdy

  • Umbrella hole

What We Don't Like
  • Only available in one color

  • Table isn't big enough for large dinners for two

While small in size, the Pioneer Woman Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set adds a big pop of color to any deck, patio, or balcony. We tested this teal bistro set on an uncovered front porch and found it to be the perfect size for having a coffee or small breakfast with a friend. You can even add your own umbrella since it comes with an umbrella hole that you can cover when not in use. The small chairs do not come with arms or cushions but are durable, stable, and comfortable enough to sit on for shorter lengths of time. Although the set is made of metal, it was surprisingly lightweight and we could move it around easily. 

Upon delivery, we were a bit surprised by how many parts came in the box for us to put together. However, the instructions were very easy to follow and the two of us were able to work together and get the set assembled in about 30 minutes. All of the hardware was included and although it does come with a wrench, we found that it was small and not the best quality. We recommend using your own if you have one. 

This set held up well while uncovered during several rainstorms and scorching hot weather without any fading or damage. We do wish it came in other colors besides teal since that bright color doesn’t suit everyone’s aesthetics, but we do think it’s a great way to brighten up a patio or garden and create a cozy spot to relax, at an affordable price.

How It Performed Long-Term

After two months, we still love this budget-friendly set and continue to think it's an excellent choice for small spaces, especially when storage is limited. Although you could move it indoors or cover it during inclement weather, we found that it held up well uncovered, even during heavy rain storms. Although we did detect a few small paint chips, they were barely noticeable, and the bright set did not fade a bit even with prolonged exposure to the sun.

Pieces: 2 chairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 2 | Material: Cast aluminum | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best Splurge

Frontgate Palermo 7-pc. Rectangular Dining Set

Frontgate Palermo 7-pc. Rectangular Dining Set

Frontgate

What We Like
  • Easy-to-clean tabletop

  • Weather-resistant materials

  • 10-year warranty on frame

What We Don't Like
  • Long ship times

  • Recommended to bring indoors during off-season

If you’re looking for the aesthetic of a wicker dining set constructed from more durable materials, then we recommend the splurge-worthy Palermo set from Frontgate. Although this set is much more expensive than the average dining set (around $1,000), we think its durable rust-resistant, powder-coated frame and antimicrobial resin wicker seats make it a worthy splurge.

The wicker is made from high-density polyethylene, which prohibits the growth of fungus and mildew, so these chairs can weather the seasons. Additionally, the seat cushions (only sold with the set, or must be purchased separately) are covered in 100 percent waterproof Sunbrella Rain performance fabric. If they get wet from rain, simply set them up on a side to allow excess moisture to drain and dry. 

We love this table’s glass top, which can easily be wiped off before and after hosting a dinner party. Plus, it has a hole (and cover) for an umbrella. The table offers plenty of legroom and space between seats, making it comfortable to sit at for longer periods of time. If you’re still worried about spending so much money, the frame is also backed by a 10-year limited warranty for structural integrity, and the cushions have a two-year fabric warranty.

Frontgate does recommend covering this set with a weather cover, when it’s not in use, or bringing it into a storage area during winter months. We realize that not every home will have a large enough storage area for this dining set, so we recommend investing in the compatible table and chair cover if you want to splurge on this set. 

Pieces: 2 arm chairs, 4 side chairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 6 | Material: Resin wicker, powder-coated aluminum frame, Sunbrella performance fabric cushions | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best 7-Piece Set

Pottery Barn Rectangular Dining Set

Pottery Barn Santa Ana 7-Piece Eucalyptus Rectangular Dining Set

Pottery Barn

What We Like
  • Ventilated mesh chairs

  • Assembly included in delivery

  • Can be extended to seat 10

What We Don't Like
  • Black seats may be hot in direct sunlight

  • Expensive

If you frequently host large outdoor events, a dining set that seats at least six people is a great tool to have. The Pottery Barn Santa Ana 7-Piece Eucalyptus Rectangular Dining Set can be extended to accommodate up to 10 guests (the highest seating capacity on our list), and it’s made from FSC-certified eucalyptus wood with aluminum legs for a sturdy, weather-ready design.

Only six chairs are provided in this set, but you can purchase additional chairs separately. We love the mesh seats of these chairs, which makes them breathable on super hot evenings, and they’re also easier to rinse off and allow to dry. However, we do think these chairs would be hot if placed in direct sunlight, so fabric covers may be a useful purchase.

This set is delivered via white glove delivery, which takes care of any assembly concerns. We do think this set is expensive, given its comparable design to other seven-piece sets in this roundup; however, we recognize that the eco-conscious materials may increase the cost of producing this set. With that in mind, if you’re focused on aesthetics and don’t have a set budget, we think this set is a worthy splurge. Its responsible production is also a huge plus.

Pieces: 6 armchairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 6 | Material: Aluminum frame, FSC-certified eucalyptus wood tabletop and chair arms | Umbrella Hole: No

Best Metal

All Modern Joel 6-Person Patio Dining Set

All Modern Joel 6-Person Patio Dining Set

All Modern

What We Like
  • Can leave out year-round

  • Classic design

  • Great for small spaces

What We Don't Like
  • No umbrella hole

  • Darker colors may get hot in direct sunlight

The best part of a metal patio dining set is that you can leave it out year-round without worrying about it becoming worn or excessively dirty, so it's great for unpredictable climates. The Joel 6-Person Outdoor Dining Set from All Modern is a great, classic picnic-style table and bench set. It’s available in seven finishes, all of which are constructed with durable aluminum frames and polyresin seats and tabletops. This table measures 59 inches long and 36 inches deep, making it a great option for homes with smaller patios or backyards. 

Although we love the color variety offered for this set, we think the darker finishes will be prone to overheating in direct sunlight, so a fabric cover or cushion may still improve your setup, despite this set’s all-weather design. This table also does not have an umbrella hole, so you will have to purchase a cantilever umbrella or an umbrella with a wide tilt range if desired. All in all, despite a few design issues, we still think this metal dining set is a great choice for homes looking for a simple, compact hosting setup. 

Pieces: 2 benches, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 6 | Material: Aluminum frame, polyresin seats and tabletop | Umbrella Hole: No

Best 5-Piece Set

MF Studio 5-Piece Outdoor Conversation Set

MF Studio 5-Piece Outdoor Conversation Set

Walmart

What We Like
  • Unique fire element

  • Additional storage shelf

  • Ideal for small patios

What We Don't Like
  • Limited legroom

  • Should be covered or moved indoors during off season

A smaller dining set can be a great addition to a larger outdoor entertainment space, or it can be a compact alternative for small patios and backyards. However, this Outdoor Conversation Set from MF Studio has a unique design element: a glass fire pit. Talk about a universal entertainment feature! Plus, it’s incredibly affordable at just over $800, compared to other five-piece sets in this roundup that don’t have a fire element.

The firepit is equipped with a pulse igniter for easy lighting and uses propane for power. It also comes with decorative blue glass pebbles and doesn’t require wood or produce ash. If you don’t want to use the fire pit feature, a convenient cover makes it easy to use the entire tabletop for a dinner spread. While this tabletop fire pit adds an interesting twist to a typical dining set, we are concerned about its durability against inclement weather.

We recommend purchasing a fabric cover for the table, if you don’t have a covered patio, or if possible, this table should be stored when not in use to prevent any undue wear and tear. We also recognize that the propane tank housing limits the amount of legroom that some guests may have when sitting at this table. We recommend seating tall folks at the open end of the table rather than near the propane tank. 

Pieces: 4 armchairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 4 | Material: Powder-coated aluminum frame, resin wicker, polyester cushions | Umbrella Hole: No

Best All-Weather

Polywood Lakeside 7-Piece Farmhouse Dining Set

Polywood Lakeside 7-Piece Farmhouse Dining Set

Polywood

What We Like
  • All-weather material

  • Several customization options

  • Easy to clean

  • Sturdy

What We Don't Like
  • Heavy

  • Customization options cost extra

The Polywood Lakeside 7-Piece Dining Set is our top pick because of its durable, marine-quality material and classic design. Although there are many high-quality materials that can withstand mixed weather conditions, we’ve found through testing other products, like their Adirondack chair, that POLYWOOD lumber is easy to clean and can be left outside with no concern for its structural integrity or color fading over time. It can also easily be wiped down with a wet cloth to remove sticky messes and dirt. 

With this dining set’s material in mind, we think it’s reasonably priced compared to other sets on the market that may be made from wood or metal, which do eventually crack and rust after many seasons of use and weather exposure. Plus, this dining set can be purchased in seven different colors, and you can also choose to upgrade the table base for a different aesthetic. POLYWOOD also offers chair cushions and an umbrella and base that are compatible with this set. 

Together, the entire set weighs over 200 pounds, which means the box(es) it arrives in will be pretty heavy and difficult to maneuver. We recommend having a helper nearby for assembly and unboxing. However, the weight of each individual piece means this set may be able to withstand higher winds in the case of a storm.

We did have some difficulty during our assembly process with POLYWOOD’s Modern Adirondack Chair, but a quick review of some helpful assembly videos on POLYWOOD’s website resolved our issues. Keep this in mind when you start assembling the dining set, which we have not personally tested. All in all, for under $2,000 we think this dining set is a great outdoor entertainment feature, especially considering its durability, compared to other sets that are priced much higher.

Pieces: 2 dining arm chairs, 4 dining side chairs, 1 dining table | Seating Capacity: 6 | Material: POLYWOOD lumber | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Final Verdict

After testing for several weeks in one of our own backyards, our best overall pick is the Better Homes & Gardens Clayton Court 5-piece Patio Dining Set, a durable, affordable, and stylish set that is a great size for most patios and decks. This set has a classic design and does not get too hot in the sun. Plus, we found the chairs to be extremely comfortable, thanks to the coil spring. For smaller spaces and budgets, we love the Pioneer Woman Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set. This adorable set can fit on smaller decks, balconies, or patios and is the perfect size for dining for one or coffee for two.

How We Tested the Patio Dining Sets

We tested 15 different patio furniture sets, including four patio dining sets over the course of several weeks at our own homes across the country. Three of the dining sets featured on this list were top performers in our test. After the sets arrived at our homes, we recorded how long it took from the time we ordered them until they were delivered, where on our property they were delivered, and how many boxes they arrived in. We noted if the boxes required two people to carry to their destination in our outdoor spaces. We then recorded the time it took to unbox and assemble the set. We noted if the instructions were easy or difficult to follow and if the hardware was included. 

Then over the course of several weeks, we used these dining sets as part of our daily outdoor time and even invited friends over to help us test them as well. We noted how sturdy the chairs and tables were, what types of tableware would fit, and if the chairs or table wobbled with use, or felt sturdy and durable. We noted any storms we experienced during this time, how well the table and chairs withstood the rain and winds, and if there was any chipping, warping, fading, or any other damage. For all of the chairs that included cushions, we noted how they fared in the rain, and how long they took to dry. We noted how comfortable the chairs were (including if they got too hot in the sun), or if we experienced any discomfort with the design. We also noted if the chairs fit under the table (to save space), were easy to slide in and out, and if they fit comfortably around the table with ample leg room.

To test how well these sets hold up over prolonged use and exposure to the elements, we tested these sets for two months after the initial testing. We then reported any changes to the appearance or comfort of the sets.

What to Look for in a Patio Dining Set

Size and Layout

Finding the right pieces for your outdoor space can be the biggest challenge, especially if you’re limited to a smaller area. Measure your outdoor patio or backyard carefully. We recommend considering how much room guests may need to sit comfortably and move around the furniture. Then, when you’re in the stage of selecting your patio furniture set, be sure to consider how often you may use different elements of the set to ensure that it’s the right size for you.

For example, a couch is a great, comfortable element to have in a patio set, but it might not be the best fit for your space if you’re limited to an apartment balcony. In that case, you might prefer a smaller bistro set like our best budget pick, the Pioneer Woman Goldie 3-Piece Cast Aluminum Garden Bistro Set.

But if you find yourself entertaining often, and have the space for it, our best wood pick, the Walker Edison Delray Classic 6-Piece Acacia Wood Outdoor Dining Set. is a great choice. Our best overall pick, the Better Homes & Gardens Clayton Court 5-piece Patio Dining Set can fit on most patios or decks and seats four people comfortably.

Style and Features

Just like interior furniture, patio decor is available in a range of styles and colors to fit various design preferences. If you’re looking for an opportunity to step out of your typical design style, a unique patio set is a great way to mix up your home’s decor, like our favorite 5-piece set, the MF Studio 5-Piece Outdoor Patio Conversation Set, which combines classic black and wooden accents with a firepit built-in for an unexpected touch.

While mixing up your style can be fun (and daunting) we recommend looking for timeless sets that will not only last through different decor trends but will also withstand wear and tear through the seasons. Our best metal option, the All Modern Joel 59'' Rectangular 6 - Person Outdoor Dining Set is a great example of this. The metal construction stands up to all weather conditions and the sleek, modern design stands the test of time.

Material

All of the dining sets featured in our roundup are made from weather-resistant materials. Powder-coated steel or iron is one of the most popular building materials for dining sets because it’s rust-resistant and can also withstand scratches, dust, and mildew. Marine-grade plastic lumber, like that of our best all-weather set, the Polywood Lakeside 7-Piece Dining Set, is also a durable material that withstands cracking, shedding, and fading, but still has the aesthetic of traditional wooden furniture. 

Many chair cushions are now covered with polyester fabric, which withstands fading and is easily washed (if designed in a slipcover format) or spot-treated. You’ll also find sets that offer performance fabrics like Sunbrella or CushionGuard (Hampton Bay’s custom fabric line). These fabrics are not only fade-resistant and easy to spot clean, but they’re also water-repellent, and they can be left outside in the case of inclement weather.

FAQ
  • Are patio dining sets weatherproof?

    Although some outdoor patio dining sets are weather-resistant, they're not 100 percent weatherproof. When selecting outdoor furniture, consider the weather in your area. You should also consider whether you have the space to store a patio set if you don’t purchase a fully weatherproof option. Polywood and similar poly-lumber blends are appropriate to leave out year-round, because they do not crack, fade, or peel, and they can easily be wiped off before each use. Teak outdoor furniture is also a good option. While aluminum and steel are rust-resistant, we still recommend moving any furniture constructed from these materials under a covered shelter. You can also purchase fabric furniture covers, which help to repel rain and larger debris. This material should also be regularly wiped down to maintain its finish and prevent build-up of dust or pollen.

  • How do you store a patio dining set?

    As mentioned, some patio dining sets can be left in the open without a cover. For those sets that do need extra care, we recommend storing them in a tool shed, garage, or under-home storage, when possible. If you don’t have a large enough storage space, purchase a reliable fabric furniture cover built to repel water and mildew. Whenever possible, be sure to shake out a furniture cover after heavy rain and remove any larger debris that may have fallen on it. 

    All of the sets listed in this roundup can be wiped clean with a cloth and warm water. We recommend consulting each individual manufacturer’s specific care guides as well. To remove tough stains and mold, perhaps invest in a pressure washer. A pressure washer can be used on the polywood and similar plastic sets, but we don’t recommend using one on powder-coated aluminum as it may chip the finish.

  • Are patio dining sets expensive?

    Patio dining sets can range anywhere from $300 to $5,000. While the price of a patio set may indicate its quality, that doesn’t mean a less expensive patio set cannot withstand wet weather conditions. Our best budget pick, the IKEA TORPARÖ set, is constructed from powder-coated aluminum, just like more expensive sets in this roundup. Its smaller size and collapsible element make it slightly less expensive and incredibly practical for anyone who is limited by space and needs a multifunctional outdoor space.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Emma Phelps, an associate editor for The Spruce, researched each of the patio dining sets listed in this roundup and wrote the supporting descriptions. For this topic, Phelps not only considered the material and size of each set but also looked at the style, unique design elements, and ease-of-use factors that made these dining sets stand out against other options on the market. While Phelps does cover a variety of topics at The Spruce, she specializes in home improvement, organization, and decor topics.

Our Experts: