What size is an end table?

Author: Tristin Daniel  |  Last update: Thursday, August 21, 2025

Standard end tables are 14" – 24" wide, 18" – 28" tall, and 22" – 24" deep. Their relatively compact size makes them easy to tuck between furniture or in small corners. They're also wide enough to hold drinks, reading materials, and table lamps for sofa-side lounging.

What's the difference between a side table and an end table?

End tables are typically designed for utility—providing a convenient surface for lamps, drinks, or everyday essentials. They blend subtly into the background, prioritizing practicality. Side tables, however, often lean into decorative appeal.

What is the ideal size of a bedside table?

We can say, however, that most classic bedside tables resting on the floor and with 2 drawers, measure approximately 45-50 cm in width by 40 cm in height, with a depth of 30-40 cm. These measurements are suitable for most beds and bedrooms.

What is the standard size for a coffee table?

A standard rectangular coffee table should be 47 inches long and 27 inches wide. These measures are ideal for a standard two-seat sofa.

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

It is typical for a coffee table to be a bit low, so if you also want to be able to eat at the table, you should choose a table that is slightly higher. If this is the case, a good solution could be an end table since they usually are a bit higher than coffee tables.

7 Design Tips To Choose The Perfect End Table And Side Table For Your Living Room

What is a good size for an end table?

Standard end tables are 14" – 24" wide, 18" – 28" tall, and 22" – 24" deep. Their relatively compact size makes them easy to tuck between furniture or in small corners. They're also wide enough to hold drinks, reading materials, and table lamps for sofa-side lounging.

Do people still use end tables?

To answer the key question - yes, end tables are still common and popular pieces of furniture today. Many homeowners favour end tables as they are considered an essential component of interior design.

What is the most popular coffee table size?

For a small size rectangle, the standard is 30” or 36” wide by 48” long. Small rectangle tables seat 4 people comfortably. These sizes sometimes have leaves that expand the table to 60” long or more which can sit 6 people easily. The most common rectangular size is 42” wide by 60” long.

Is a 12 inch coffee table too short?

Is a 12 inch coffee table too low? It depends on the height of your sofa. It's best to choose a coffee table that is the same height or only 1-2” lower than the seat of your sofa.

Is 20 inches too tall for coffee table?

Coffee tables are an integral component of any living room setup, and if you're wondering how tall they should stand, you're not the only one. Generally, coffee tables can sit as low as 14 inches off the ground and as high as 20 inches—they should be in line with your sofa.

What size is a bed end table?

Therefore, let's first take a look at standard end table dimensions: Standard end table height ranges between 18-24 inches. In other words, these tables range from approximately 1.5-2 feet off the ground, with an average width of around 16-22 inches.

How do you make a bedside table look nice?

Here are five night table styling ideas for the bedroom.
  1. Add Dimension with Heights and Sizes. ...
  2. Add Personal Touches. ...
  3. Add a Colour with Flowers and Plants. ...
  4. Style with Artwork. ...
  5. Play with Symmetry.

What is the difference between a nightstand and a bedside table?

Bedside tables tend to be smaller and minimalist in design, focusing on crucial surface space, while nightstands offer more storage options and design versatility. Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the right piece of furniture that serves its purpose and enhances your bedroom's overall aesthetics.

Can I use a nightstand as an end table?

Yes, you can use the nightstand as an end table. These two pieces of furniture are similar in function and can be interchanged, so you can get as creative as you like.

Should a end table be on or off rug?

Used primarily in living spaces and bedrooms, the furniture legs will be partially on the rug (but not entirely). In a living room, the front legs of your couch, chairs, and end tables should fit on the rug.

What do you call an end table?

End tables are a type of accent table placed at the side of other furniture, for example, a sofa. The height of the end table should be equivalent to that of the sofa's arm. They appear in different forms, colors, and materials, but your living room design will determine the shape of the most appropriate end table.

Should the end table be taller than the couch?

The number-one question when choosing an end table: How tall should it be? The rule of thumb is that its surface area should be equal to or just below the height of the sofa arms.

Should I get a round or rectangle coffee table?

For smaller living rooms, a round coffee table is a better option than rectangular coffee tables because they take up less space. Round coffee tables don't have corners which makes them more suited to tight spaces.

Is 13 inches too low for a coffee table?

Your coffee table height should be the same as your sofa cushions, or 1" – 2" lower than your sofa. This allows you to easily grab any drinks or food off the tabletop and creates the perfect height for a footrest. Coffee tables fit into three height categories: low (under 14"), standard (14"– 22"), and tall (over 22").

What is the best size for a coffee table?

Typically, sofas and seats will be about 17- to 18-inches tall, so your coffee table should be about the same or slightly shorter. Generally, coffee tables should be about 2 inches shorter than the top of the seat cushion of your couch or chair. There is, however, an exception to this rule.

What color coffee table with grey couch?

A grey couch pairs well with various coffee table colours, including white, black, light wood, dark wood, and even glass. The best colour depends on the overall look and feel you want to achieve in your living room.

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

As mentioned earlier, a good rule of thumb is to have your coffee table at about the same height as the seat height of your couch, or slightly lower. This ensures that it's easy for you and your guests to reach for drinks, snacks, or anything else you might need while seated.

What is the difference between a coffee table and an end table?

End Tables Defined

They're also typically much smaller than a standard coffee table. Instead of being as tall as the cushions on loveseats or sofas, these tables are approximately the same height as the furniture arms. End tables won't be in the way of your view since they're placed next to the sides of the furniture.

How wide should end tables be?

Standard end tables are typically 14" to 24" wide and work well with any sofa size. When choosing the right end table width, think about how much surface space you'll need. Consider any items, such as table lamps, books, or plants, that you plan on placing on top of the end table.

Where to put end tables in a living room?

Place an end table beside an armchair. If you have a favorite armchair or recliner, create a cozy book nook with a chairside end table. The added storage will ensure your favorite book is always within arm's reach.

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