An end table is a small, functional piece of furniture typically placed next to a sofa or bed. It’s designed to hold items like lamps, drinks, remote controls, or books, helping to keep your living space organized and accessible. While it’s a simple piece, the right end table can make a significant difference in the overall functionality and aesthetic of a room.
When choosing the perfect end table for your space, there are several factors to consider—size, shape, functionality, and style—all of which will impact how well it fits into your home. Let’s dive into the key aspects to keep in mind when shopping for an end table in 2025.
Side & End Table Dimensions
The ideal height for an end table placed next to a sofa is typically between 35 cm to 45 cm (14-18 inches). This height range ensures that the table is easily accessible from a seated position, usually just above or at knee height. This makes it convenient for placing drinks, lamps, or remote controls within easy reach while sitting.
On the other hand, if the end table is expected to be placed beside the bed, it is recommended to choose a style that is the same height as the bed or slightly higher, and the height of each bed will also vary, but the average is about 50 ~70cm (20-28 inches)or so. After selecting the height, don't forget to carefully check the details such as width and depth, so as not to take up too much space or even put it in the predicament of buying it.
After deciding on the height, it's important to consider the table's width and depth to avoid overwhelming the space. For a sofa side table, widths between 40-60 cm (16-24 inches) are common. For bedside tables, the dimensions typically range from 40 cm to 50 cm (16-20 inches) in width and 30 cm to 45 cm (12-18 inches) in depth, though this can vary based on available space and intended use.
| Type of Table | Height (cm) | Height (Inches) | Typical Dimensions |
| End Table (Sofa Side) | 35-45 cm | 14-18 inches | Height should be slightly higher than your knees when sitting on a sofa. |
| End Table (Bedside) | 50-70 cm | 20-28 inches | Height should match or be slightly higher than the bed. |
Choose Your Favorite Desktop Shape
When selecting an end table, the shape of the tabletop plays a key role in both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The most common shapes are square, round, oval, and even C-shaped, and each serves a different purpose depending on your space and needs. Let’s explore these options:
| Table Shape | Key Features | Best For |
| Square | Maximizes space, ample surface area, ideal for organizing items | Small to medium spaces, storage |
| Round | Compact, no sharp edges, soft, inviting look | Smaller spaces, temporary surfaces |
| Oval | Combines spaciousness of rectangular with the soft curves of round tables | Larger spaces, balanced look |
| C-Shaped | Slides under sofas or chairs for easy access, space-saving design | Small spaces, flexible use |
Choose Suitable Materials
The style created by each material can be said to be very different. Next, we will introduce you to several representative materials.
Wood
The end table made of wood has a natural and soft atmosphere, not only can it be easily integrated into any home decoration, but also can be used to create a Scandinavian, natural or rustic style. In addition, since the wooden product itself has a certain weight, the workmanship structure is relatively stable, even if it is used to place heavier items. By the way, in addition to all-solid wood end tables, there are also many styles made of imitation wood grain plywood on the market, which are not only cheaper, but also more durable than ordinary solid wood in humid and high-temperature environments.
This Tribesigns semi-circular side table features a semi-circular leg structure and thick panels, ensuring durability. The sleek, crescent-shaped design makes it suitable as a side table in the living room or bedroom, a sofa table, or a bedside table. It's especially ideal for small spaces, easily complementing other furniture in the living room, hallway, entryway, or bedroom, enhancing your home's style.
Moderate height, sturdy structure. This side table is 23.62 inches (about 60 cm) high, taller than a coffee table but lower than a regular table, making it easy to reach items.
Glass Tabletop
Glass tops are often paired with metal or wooden feet to create a sophisticated and stylish ambience, and can even be part of a home decor, this end table is best suited for contemporary, modern, or mid-century modernism ( Mid Century Modern) and other styles of home space. In addition, the transparent glass table top can also reduce the visual pressure, making the overall space look more spacious and tidy.
Plastic
Rich colors, shapes and styles, easy maintenance, etc. are one of the advantages of plastic furniture. Coupled with various texture processing such as matte or glossy, no matter what kind of home decoration style, you can choose a suitable style. In addition, the plastic material also has the characteristics of light weight, which can be easily and effortlessly moved, which can be said to be one of the most popular materials. However, this kind of plastic end table is currently relatively rare in physical stores. If you are interested, you may directly inquire and purchase on the official websites of major furniture brands.
Functional Storage Features
Many end tables offer more than just a simple tabletop. Models with integrated storage, such as drawers or shelving, provide an excellent solution for keeping your space organized. End table with storage help reduce clutter by offering convenient places to store items like magazines, remote controls, or tissues—right where you need them. Whether you're looking to maximize small spaces or enhance functionality, an end table with built-in storage offers the perfect combination of style and practicality. The ability to store everyday items within arm's reach adds both convenience and efficiency to your living area, making your space work harder for you.
Versatile Design
For those who enjoy using a computer or watching shows from the bed or sofa, an end table with both wheels and adjustable height and angle offers the perfect combination of convenience and flexibility. The built-in wheels make it easy to move the table around as needed, whether you’re rearranging or setting it up for guests. Just make sure the wheels have a locking function to prevent sliding when you need the table to stay in place.
Additionally, the ability to adjust the table’s height and tilt means you can customize it for different activities. Whether you’re using it as a workstation or reading a book, you can easily find the most comfortable position, making the table adaptable to various uses and locations. This all-in-one design ensures that the table can serve multiple purposes, all while saving space and improving your daily convenience.
Shop Height Adjustable C Table
Folding Style That is Convenient For Use And Storage
Most of the foldable end tables are simple in structure. They can be opened or folded with simple steps, and they are usually not too large after folding. They are most suitable for renters who have small space at home or do not want to buy too many large furniture. . When relatives and friends come to the house, or want to watch TV or eat snacks on the sofa, the table can be quickly unfolded and used, which is very convenient.
End Table Capacity
Basically, the end table is not suitable for placing too heavy items, but some tabletops are more spacious or have storage functions, so it is inevitable that people will put more and more things, such as lamps, vases, Computers, etc. have a certain weight, so it is best to carefully confirm the load-bearing degree of the product when purchasing, so that it will be more secure to use.
Assemble
When buying a end table online, some products need to be assembled by themselves before they can be used, but in general, the steps are usually not too complicated, and it only takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. However, if you don't have much confidence in DIY, or if you want to start using it as soon as possible, it is recommended to directly buy the finished product that does not require installation, or choose a product that the manufacturer provides services such as on-site installation.
Compared with the general table, the end table is more flexible in use. Whether it is placed beside the bed, next to the sofa, or even placed independently in the home space, it can make the home exude a different style and atmosphere. It can add convenience to your life! Friends who are still hesitating, you may wish to refer to today's introduction and choose a style that meets your needs!
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