If you want to transform your outside space into an extension of your living room and a spot to host unforgettable dinner parties, we're here to help. We've tested 25 pieces of patio furniture, some for over six months, to find the best fit for your space.
Through our testing, we discovered that the material of your patio furniture is the most important consideration. When shopping for outdoor furniture, you want to consider whether or not you intend to use your patio furniture set all year. If so, look into high-performance fabrics.
"Paired with performance fabrics, like Perennials and Sunbrella, your patio will be impervious to the elements so that you can use it all year," says Caron Woolsey, founder and principal Designer at CW Interiors.If you prefer the look of wood, just add a weather-resistant stain or leave it under a covered patio. Luckily, the sets on this list run the gamut of design styles, and they're all designed to withstand the outdoors, so you're guaranteed to find furniture that fits your unique taste.
To help find the best patio furniture on the market, we tested dining sets, zero-gravity chairs, outdoor sectionals, conversation sets, and more. Throughout this process, we dedicated a total of over 250 hours to meticulously testing each model, with a particular emphasis on comfort, durability, assembly, quality, and overall value.Based on our findings, here are the best options we tested.
Our Top Picks
Best Sectional Set:
What We Like
Appealing modern style
Durable tabletop
Weather-resistant materials
What We Don't Like
Cushions are not waterproof
After testing a wide range of patio sets, this one from Better Homes & Gardens undoubtedly stands out as the most visually appealing, earning it our best overall spot (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith). This set includes four chairs that are not only stylish but also durable, thanks to their sturdy steel frames and elegant all-weather wicker.
For added comfort that lasts, every chair is equipped with cushions wrapped in polyester fabric that resists fading. The table features a modern design that showcases a steel-embossed woodgrain tabletop that can resist rust. During our rigorous testing, we encountered a heavy downpour of rain. The metal table top, which we had high hopes for, held up remarkably well against the moisture. It repelled the water and showed no signs of rust or corrosion after the rain had stopped.
However, the same could not be said for the plush cushions we tested. Despite our expectations, they absorbed a lot of rainwater, leaving them feeling wet and heavy, and they took six hours to dry completely when hung outdoors. Therefore, we recommend storing these in a deck box or outdoor shed or covering them with an outdoor furniture cover. Still, we were pleased to note that the fabric did not show any visible damage or fading from the sunny days that followed.
We are thoroughly impressed with the set's appearance and sturdiness. However, it should be noted that the black frame tends to retain heat. This can cause some discomfort when sitting in chairs under direct sunlight, particularly if you are wearing shorts. To alleviate this issue, we have found that using a large patio umbrella provides effective shade. The chairs fit perfectly under the table, though they don't quite tuck in because of the leg design.
It took two of us over an hour to assemble the patio set, with the chairs being the most challenging part. We had some difficulty screwing two pieces of the chair together at an awkward angle, but we managed to accomplish the task effectively once we found a way to ensure it was tight.
After six months, we did not notice any signs of rust, mold, or other adverse effects on the furniture. Even after being exposed to water and dried multiple times, the cushions looked as good as new. To prevent water damage, we propped the chairs against the table before inclement weather arrived, which proved effective. We plan to use a furniture cover during the winter, but so far, it has withstood rain and sun with ease, so we have no complaints about this set's durability.
Dimensions: 44.02 × 30.31 inches (table), 22.25 × 23.23 × 28.35 inches (chair)︱Material: Steel frame︱Seating capacity: Four
What We Like
Withstands rain and wind
Great for small spaces
Comfortable seats
What We Don't Like
Thin cushions
Our testing confirmed this Devoko 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set is perfect if you’re looking to create a comfy outdoor lounge area without breaking the bank. These two chairs, with cushions and a table featuring a glass top, make an ideal addition to a small patio or balcony. They are also perfect for providing additional seating near a pool.
When it comes to comfort, we can't stress enough how amazingly comfortable these pieces are. Our guests have even praised the chairs for their coziness, and we think it's mostly because of the gently curved back that offers subtle yet supportive comfort. The cushions also use foam to give you a comfortable sitting feel, although it was a bit thin for our taste.
This stylish set is made with a strong steel frame and all-weather PE rattan wicker, which makes it sturdy and durable enough for all kinds of weather. We encountered multiple thunderstorms while testing and were pleased that the chairs and table held up well during the heavy rain, and the cushions mostly repelled the water. However, after months of testing, we recommend diligently removing the cushions before rain because they take too long to dry.
For the second heavy rainfall, we chose to take the glass off the table and prop it against the house until the weather improved. After it had dried, we placed it back on the table, and it looked as good as new. After another day of rain, the cushions and furniture held up just as well as they did during the initial rainfall.
Assembling the chairs was pretty easy. To begin, we had to remove the plastic wrap from each piece, which, unfortunately, was not very environmentally friendly. All the screws were the same size, which made it easy to choose one without needing to check for any variations. While the first chair took us 45 minutes to assemble, we completed the second in significantly less time.
We had no trouble wiping away debris like pine needles, and even when we accidentally got sunscreen on one of the chairs, we could easily clean it without any lasting damage. One notable advantage of these particular chairs is their lightweight build, which makes them incredibly easy to move around. We've moved the set around the house multiple times with no issues.
Dimensions: 21.5 x 19.5 x 33.5 inches (chairs), 15.75 x 15.75 x 17.75 inches (table)︱Material: Glass, rattan︱Seating capacity: Two
What We Like
Large enough to fit 8 people
Heavy glass tabletop
Water resistant and easy to clean
Comfortable chairs and cushions, 2 with armrests
What We Don't Like
Arrives in seven heavy boxes
Frontgate's Palermo dining set proved that it's worth the splurge during testing. The large table felt incredibly sturdy with a thick layer of glass, and while the set comes with six chairs, we think it could easily accommodate eight people. All of the chairs are wide and roomy, making it comfortable to sit for hours. We also love that the two end chairs have armrests, so guests have two seating options when they come over for dinner parties.
Every chair comes with a cushion, which we found plush and comfortable. The end chairs have all of the cushions affixed to them so they won't blow away. One of the biggest positives of this set is that the chairs push completely under the table, which completely protects the cushions during rainfall, and the set didn't move an inch despite high winds. The cushions also dry surprisingly quickly if they do get wet. Still, for optimal weather resistance, we recommend storing them indoors during rain or snow.
One issue we ran into was rainwater pooling under the glass top of the table. Because the table is so sturdy, it may require two people to lift the heavy glass top to wipe it down. Still, this is a small price to pay for a sturdy table that didn't move or withstand any damage after months of inclement weather.
The resin wicker has a timeless look that seamlessly blends in with other outdoor furniture, and there are five cushions to choose from for a pop of color. The wicker is completely waterproof, but the glass tabletop might need to be wiped down before you sit down to dine.
We were very grateful for Frontgate's extensive delivery service, which included carrying the seven boxes into our backyard, where the set will be located. The majority of the assembly process was spent opening boxes. Luckily, the chairs arrived fully assembled, but the table required a bit of intuitive assembly. Since the pieces are so heavy, we recommend having a friend around to help. However, once assembled, the heavy table became a blessing, giving us peace of mind during the wind and rain we experienced during the testing period.
Dimensions: 86.3 x 44 x 29 inches (table), 25 x 27.8 x 36.3 inches (arm chair), 19 x 26.5 x 34.8 inches 9side chair) | Material: Resin wicker, polyester cushions with foam core | Seating capacity: Six
How do you clean a patio furniture set?
Usually, you can clean outdoor furniture with a mixture of mild soap and water and a sponge or scrub brush. Removing stains and deep-cleaning your patio furniture set depends on the material it is made of. You should always read and follow the care instructions included with your furniture before cleaning.
Best Sofa Set
Christopher Knight Home Carolina Outdoor Sofa Set
What We Like
Spacious seating
Comfortable cushions
Wood doesn't absorb mositure
What We Don't Like
Wood requires maintenance
Looking for an outdoor sofa set that can endure tough weather conditions? Check out the Christopher Knight Home Carolina Outdoor Acacia Sofa Set. We tested this set for six months in Birmingham, Alabama, and found it held up remarkably well against the bright sun, excessive heat, and heavy rain with moderate wind.
This set includes two chairs, a bench, and a spacious table, all crafted from top-notch eucalyptus wood. The wood is incredibly durable and can withstand rain, dew, and other harsh elements. It's worth noting that the manufacturer warns that the wood may fade over time and develop a patina, which naturally occurs with all wooden furniture. After months of testing, the wooden frame did develop a natural patina from exposure to sunlight.
Despite being marketed as a bench, the larger seating was more like a loveseat, providing ample space for two individuals to sit comfortably. We even found that three people could sit on it without feeling cramped, though it is worth noting that weight limits should be considered in such instances. To our delight, we didn't experience any discomfort in our neck or back while sitting on this furniture.
The furniture's white cushions were truly impressive. They reflected the sun's heat, ensuring a cool and comfortable experience even on the hottest days. Additionally, we were pleased to find that the fabric was not sticky and the wood easily withstood moisture, even when a cold drink dripped condensation. The cushions were secured to the chairs and bench using Velcro straps, adding an extra layer of comfort and stability that never failed to amaze us.
The white cushions are susceptible to getting dirty. We did have some stains on the cushions, mainly caused by bird droppings from the nearby bird feeders. However, these stains were easily removed with soap and water. We also had a few muddy paw prints on the cushions, but wiping them away with a damp paper towel was simple. To prevent this from happening again, cover the furniture set or move the cushions indoors during rainy weather.
Dimensions: 55 x 27.5 x 33.5 inches︱Material: Eucalyptus wood︱Seating capacity: Four
What We Like
Foldable and lightweight
Sturdy and durable in rainstorms
Arrives fully assembled in one box
What We Don't Like
Metal might become hot in the sun
This folding bistro set from Grand Patio is lightweight enough to move around your space at 48 pounds in total for all three pieces but did not budge during strong storms during testing. The table and chairs also felt surprisingly big and sturdy for a foldable set. The table was a great height for eating dinner or having coffee in the morning on a porch or patio.
The powder-coated steel set is extremely weather-resistant, and we had no issues with its durability during intense rainstorms. It also won't rust when exposed to water over time. One downside of metal sets is that they can get hot in the sun, but we have not experienced this yet after months of leaving the patio furniture outdoors in the summer heat for months.
Plus, the set withstood heavy rain, winds, and sun over our months of testing without any chipping, damage, or discoloration. Due to its location on our patio, it does often get covered in pollen, but the material is incredibly easy to wipe down, leaving it looking brand new.
Also, the metal slats in the chairs might lead to discomfort when sitting for a long time, but you can always add an outdoor cushion for a plush place to sit. Though on the smaller side, each chair has an impressive weight capacity of 330 pounds.
One of the best parts about this set is that it arrives in one box fully assembled, so all you have to do is unfold the table and chairs and start enjoying. Both the table and chairs fold flat, so they're incredibly easy to store in a closet or garage.
The set has a small footprint, so it is a great option for small outdoor spaces. However, this table is slightly tall, so it's a better option for dining. Plus, it comes in six colors, including bright mint green and yellow, to add a pop of color to your porch or patio.
Dimensions: 23.5 x 27.8 inches (table), 18.5 x 16.5 x 32.3 inches (chairs)︱Material: Powder-coated steel︱Seating capacity: Two
What We Like
Durable and removable Sunbrella cushions
Multiple configurations available
White glove delivery service
What We Don't Like
Cushions are a bit firm
This gorgeous sectional set from West Elm provides the comfort of your living room in your outdoor space. We loved that you could arrange this sectional any way you want to fit your backyard because each seat is separate. The thick cushions are made from weather-resistant Sunbrella fabric, while the base is constructed of solid eucalyptus wood, which keeps it looking beautiful after weeks of rain, snow, and sun.
We found that water pooled on top of our cushions after rainfall. The cushion covers are removable, which we love for washing, but we confirmed that no water seeped through the cover, and they dried quickly. They also don't attach to the frame, so they may slide around a bit. Because they are so weather resistant, Sunbrella cushions can be a bit firm and sturdy, so they're not the softest option on the market. Luckily, after three months of use, we found that the cushions softened, which we love.
While the Sunbrella fabric is meant to be weatherproof, we opted to store them in a deck box when we're not using them. Through rain, wind, and sun, the frame of the sectional looks amazing still. There's only slight paint chipping on the frame where the cushions rest, but this area is rarely seen, so it doesn't bother us much.
Be aware that this set doesn't come with a table (this c-shaped one is available separately), so if you want a comfy place to sit and eat, opt for our favorite sofa set.
With two sizes, two wood grain colors, 18 fabric colors, and multiple configurations available, this is truly a personalized addition to your patio, so you can mold it to perfectly fit your style. Plus, West Elm offers a white glove delivery service, so your set will be transported and assembled right in your backyard with all of the packaging taken away. If you plan to move this set around your space, definitely grab a friend because it's heavy.
Dimensions: 120.3 x 70 x 30 inches︱Material: Mahogany and eucalyptus frame, Sunbrella cushions︱Seating capacity: Five
What We Like
Suitable for small spaces
High weight capacity
Weather-resistant wicker
What We Don't Like
Cushions can get dirtied
We love this option from Better Homes & Gardens, which fits snugly in any backyard or even on a small balcony. The two-piece set comes with a loveseat and an ottoman that fit together or can spread out as you need. The seating and lounging experience was cozy and spacious enough for two individuals and a small dog without feeling cramped. Our furry friend also seemed to love it, as we often caught him relaxing on it outdoors. Therefore, we can confidently state that it's also pup-approved!
While the cushions were cozy, we would have preferred if they were offered in a variety of colors instead of just off-white since they seemed to attract stains quite easily. Throughout our testing, the cushions accumulated a significant amount of dirt.
Nevertheless, we were able to clean them without difficulty using soap and water. Although not recommended by the manufacturer, we removed the cushion covers and washed them in the washing machine, which helped them look bright and clean. We still had to spot-clean a few stains due to the light color.
With that said, even when exposed to the full sun, the white cushions never felt hot against our skin. Though we didn't experience strong winds, we can attest to its sturdiness as we gave it a good nudge, and it barely budged. The cushions also effectively wicked away water, with some visible pools on their surface after a rainy day.
This loveseat and ottoman set boasts a sturdy steel frame that offers excellent stability and durability. With a weight capacity of 450 pounds, the loveseat provides ample support, while the ottoman can serve as an additional seat, supporting up to 225 pounds.We found that the wicker material didn't fade when exposed to the sun and high temperatures, even after six months of use. All in all, the material has a summery and classic appearance that would look great in any outdoor area.
Dimensions: 29.13 x 50.98 x 28.74 inches (loveseat), 42.91 x 19.49 x 11.22 inches (ottoman)︱Material: Wicker, steel frame︱Seating capacity: Two
Final Verdict
After testing 25 different patio furniture pieces, we found the best patio furniture set is the Better Homes & Gardens Tarren 5-Piece Outdoor Dining Set. This resilient set is crafted from strong steel that withstands rusting, staining, and peeling even in adverse weather conditions. If you want something a bit more affordable that you can still use year-round, you can’t go wrong with the Devoko 3 Pieces Patio Furniture Set, which includes two extra comfortable chairs and a side table.
How We Tested the Patio Furniture
We've tested 25 types of patio furniture, including dining sets, zero-gravity chairs, sectional/conversation sets, and a bench. Our team spent over 250 hours testing the models, paying close attention to factors such as comfort, durability, assembly, quality, and value.
- Assembly: We carefully noted how each piece was delivered and how easy it was to assemble. Using the manufacturer's instructions, we timed ourselves to unbox and put together the patio furniture. We also made a note of any difficulties we encountered during the assembly process, including screwing pieces together and assessing the quality of the products.
- Comfort: Over two weeks, we thoroughly tested each piece of furniture by sitting on it, lying down, and dining if applicable. We carefully observed if the furniture ever bowed or felt unstable with multiple people sitting on it and assessed how many people could comfortably fit on each furniture set.
- Durability: When exposed to the elements, we noted if weather conditions affected the furniture in any way, such as high winds, rain, hail, and sun exposure. We assessed the quality further by checking for any fading or discoloration caused by sunlight, particularly on fabrics. We also observe how quickly your furniture dries after heavy rain and how well water is absorbed or repelled by the materials.
- Long-Term Testing: Many of these patio sets were used in our backyards for over six months, so we could test how they perform over time when exposed to the elements. We took note of any fading, peeling, rust, or damage that accumulated over time.
- Overall Value: After conducting these tests and long-term testing of the patio furniture for over six months, we considered whether the price of the furniture was justified, compared to other options we've tested.
What to Look For in Patio Furniture
Outdoor-Rated, Durable Materials Are Most Important
From dust and dirt to rain and snow, your outdoor furniture is exposed to everything Mother Nature has to offer. When choosing patio furniture, look for durable, long-lasting materials that are weather-resilient, such as the eucalyptus wood in our best sofa set, the Christopher Knight Home Carolina Outdoor Acacia Sofa Set.
While wood is a common choice for outdoor furniture, it may require a stain or a sealant to be completely weather-resistant, or you should leave it under a covered patio, especially during heavy rain or snow. While this set stood up well to weather, we found that it did patina or fade over time, which is natural for wood exposed to the sun.
Another popular option is rattan or wicker, like our best budget pick, the Devoko Patio Porch Furniture Set. During our testing, we found that the rattan did not become damaged during thunderstorms and dried quickly.
For extra durability, look for sets with a steel frame, like the Better Homes & Gardens Tarren 5-Piece Outdoor Dining Set, our best overall option. Powder-coated steel won't rust, corrode, or stain when exposed to weather.
If your furniture includes cushions, choose fabrics that are easy to clean, fade-resistant, and stain-resistant.The cushions on our best sectional, the West Elm Portside Outdoor 3-Piece Chaise Sectional, were easy to shake off when water pooled on top, making them quick drying. We recommend storing your cushions indoors or covering them during rainstorms to avoid them warping or taking hours to dry afterward.
Find a Style to Fit Your Space
Look for a patio furniture set that complements the exterior of your home and backyard landscaping and that feels like a natural extension of the furniture inside of your home. Luckily, there are plenty of rustic, modern, and minimalistic options to complement any design style you prefer.
For example, the Frontgate Palermo 7-Pc. Rectangular Dining Set, our best large pick, combines modern and coastal aesthetics. We also love the unique color options of our best bistro set, the Grand Patio Bisto Set, including cherry red and mint green. Choosing bright patio furniture instantly transforms your outdoor space.
Options for Big and Small Patios Alike
Measure the area you want to furnish and select a patio furniture set that is comfortable but doesn’t overcrowd your space. In small spaces, such as a deck, front porch, or balcony, patio dining sets with four or two seats, like the Grand Patio Bistro Set (our best bistro set), and a smaller loveseat (like our best pick with an ottoman, the Better Homes & Gardens Willow Sage Wicker Outdoor Loveseat) and sofa work well.
If you anticipate re-shaping your furniture's configuration or size after purchasing, consider choosing modular outdoor furniture that you can add to later on. For example, our best overall, the Better Homes & Gardens Tarren 5-Piece Outdoor Dining Set, looks equally great with two or four chairs, depending on what your space allows.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This roundup was written by Julia Fields, an associate editor at The Spruce, who has been researching and writing about outdoor furniture for over three years. For this roundup, she researched different patio furniture sets and used our test results to compile this list.
She also carefully examined our long-term testing findings and revised the product list to include a comprehensive evaluation of the user experience with each set.
Other patio stories by Fields include chaise loungers, outdoor sectionals, and Adirondack chairs.
Our Experts:
- Caron Woolsey, founder and principal designer at CW Interiors, for her expertise on selecting and styling durable patio furniture
- Daniela Galvez, senior editor at The Spruce
The 10 Best Patio Sets for Small Spaces, Tested and Reviewed