Joybuy Insights

Choosing a side table: practical buying tips and popular options for every room

A side table may seem like a simple purchase, but the wrong model can quickly get in the way. A tabletop that’s too small, wobbly legs or not enough space for books and remote controls can leave you looking for another solution just a few months later.

So don’t focus only on colour and shape. Dimensions, weight capacity, construction and storage space all affect how well a side table works next to your sofa, bed or in the hallway.

Common pitfalls when choosing a side table

1. Focusing only on looks

An industrial-style side table with a metal frame may suit a modern interior, but check its height and depth too. A model that’s too tall next to the sofa can make it awkward to reach for a cup or lamp. A table that’s too deep takes up unnecessary space.

Before you buy, measure:

  • the height of the armrest or mattress;
  • the available space beside or in front of the furniture;
  • the distance from a door, radiator or walkway;
  • the position of sockets and cables.

2. Confusing storage space with useful storage space

A side table with storage might have open shelves, a basket or a single compartment. Open shelves are ideal for books, magazines and decorative items. A basket is more practical for keeping loose belongings out of sight.

Check the gap between the shelves too. A shelf may look spacious in the product photo, but still be unsuitable for a tall vase or larger books. For example, a round side table with a fabric basket offers a different layout from a rectangular model with three wooden tiers.

3. Overlooking weight capacity and stability

A lightweight table isn’t necessarily unstable, but it’s worth checking how it’s built. Look at:

  • the material and thickness of the tabletop;
  • the connection between the frame and tabletop;
  • adjustable feet;
  • the stated maximum weight capacity;
  • floor protection to help prevent scratches.

According to the product information for the Tribesigns model, its shelves are made from 1.5 cm-thick E1 particleboard and the metal frame can support up to 13.6 kg. These are verifiable specifications, but the table’s stability also depends on correct assembly and a level floor.

Key specifications to compare

Size and walkway space

For a small living room or bedroom, a compact side table is often more practical than a wide coffee table. A C-shaped side table can slide partly under the sofa. This brings the tabletop closer to where you’re sitting without placing the whole base in the middle of the floor.

For a hallway or the space behind a sofa, a narrow side table or console table makes more sense. Always check the depth. A console table that’s 30 cm deep takes up less room than a traditional sideboard, while still giving you space for keys, plants or decorative items.

Material and care

A wooden side table or a table with a wood-effect finish adds warmth to a room. Particleboard with veneer or a protective top layer is usually easy to clean with a slightly damp cloth. According to Tribesigns’ product description, its retro veneer is water-resistant, scratch-resistant and easy to care for. This is a claim made in the brand’s product information, not a guarantee that the surface will remain undamaged in all circumstances.

Metal is a practical choice for a frame, but check that the edges are neatly finished. For a fabric storage basket, it’s worth checking whether it can be removed and how to care for it according to the supplied instructions.

Assembly and use

Many side tables are delivered flat-packed. Check whether the product page mentions an assembly guide and numbered parts. Adjustable feet are useful on an older wooden floor or one with slight unevenness.

Don’t automatically use a bedside table as a sofa table. For a bed, size, ease of access and space for a lamp are important. For a sofa table, what matters most is whether the tabletop is at a comfortable height beside the seat.

Our recommendations for different uses

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Floordirekt Luca Round Side Table, black

Floordirekt Luca Round Side Table with Fabric Storage Basket, black

Why it suits this shopper: This compact 45 x 50 cm model is ideal for a smaller living room, bedroom or student room. Its round shape takes up little visual space, and the basket gives you somewhere to keep loose belongings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated dimensions make it easy to check whether the table will fit before you buy. The storage basket helps stop the tabletop from getting cluttered.

Key benefits and features

Round tabletop, 45 x 50 cm size and integrated fabric storage.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality
Tribesigns 3-tier side table

Tribesigns Coffee Side Tables, 3-Tier End Table

Why it suits this shopper: The three tiers keep things organised beside the sofa or bed. The combination of rustic brown shelves and a geometric metal frame suits an industrial-style interior.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that the shelves are 1.5 cm thick, the table can support up to 13.6 kg and it has four adjustable feet.

Key benefits and features

Three open shelves, a metal frame, adjustable feet and a stated weight capacity of 13.6 kg.

Suitable for: Specific uses and frequent use
Simple Trending C-shaped side table

Simple Trending C Shaped End Table

Why it suits this shopper: The C-shaped design is made for use beside a sofa or chair. You can also use it as a compact TV tray or a table in the bedroom.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The shape is designed to bring the table closer to where you’re sitting. Be sure to check that there’s enough clearance beneath your sofa first.

Key benefits and features

C-shaped design, metal frame and versatile use as a side table or TV tray.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
LANTINE 105CM console table

LANTINE 105CM Console Table

Why it suits this shopper: This model is designed for a hallway, behind a sofa or as a narrow side table. Its four tiers give you room for everyday essentials and decorative items.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its dimensions of 30D x 105W x 80H cm make it suitable for a narrow space. Adjustable foot pads help compensate for slight unevenness.

Key benefits and features

Four tiers, 30 cm depth, a metal frame and a stated weight capacity of up to 100 lb according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about side tables

How tall should a side table be next to a sofa?

A useful rule of thumb is for the tabletop to be roughly level with the sofa armrest, or slightly lower. Measure from the floor to the top of the armrest. With a C-shaped model, you should also check that the base fits beneath the sofa.

How much weight can a side table support?

This varies by model and material. Check the maximum weight capacity on the product page and distribute heavy items evenly. A lamp, books and a plant put more strain on the construction together than a cup on its own. Don’t exceed the stated limit.

Can a side table with storage be used as a bedside table?

Yes, as long as it’s the right height next to your bed and there’s enough room for a lamp, phone and other essentials. A model with open shelves is handy for books, while one with a basket keeps smaller belongings more out of sight. Also check that the table stands securely and won’t slide against the bed.