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The 14 Best Small Dining Tables of 2024

These compact and space-saving tables are a major upgrade from eating on the couch.

Small Dining Tables
Photo:

Real Simple / Brian Kopinski

A dining table may seem like a luxury that your square footage can’t afford if you’re furnishing a small apartment or house, but that’s not always the case. Opting for a small dining table can boost the functionality of your space by creating a designated area for eating and entertaining, and it can make your decor feel more inviting. Plus, you can find small dining tables in all kinds of shapes and styles to best fit your home. 

“When looking at table sizes and shapes, it’s important to think about the size of your space, number of family members, and how many people on average will be sitting down to eat at once,” says Brodie Jenkins, interior designer behind Enchanted Berkeley. “For folks with a smaller space but who love hosting, I love the extendable tables that can be adjusted to allow for more seating when needed.” 

We consulted Jenkins for expert tips on how to shop for small dining tables, in addition to thoroughly researching small dining table options and considering their material, size and shape, seating capacity, and assembly process to make our top picks.

What Stands Out
  • This table can expand to fit six guests while maintaining a sleek, modern look.

What Could Be Improved
  • It has rounded corners, which isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a rectangular table.

This mid-century-inspired dining table has a lot going for it. It has a drop-in leaf design which lets you expand your table to seat up to six people, allowing you to adapt it to your hosting needs and dining room situation. Solid kiln-dried acacia wood is used throughout, making it extra sturdy and resistant to warping. Like most high-quality furniture, it is an investment, but you can bet this table is built to last, and its sleek design will stay in style for years to come.  

At its most compact, this circular table is 42 inches wide. If you have guests coming over, it can expand to 60 inches by quickly adding the drop-leaf, which gives it a more ovular shape. This has its benefits when it comes to small space entertaining: You can have some extra wiggle room when it comes to seating, and you don't have to worry about running into sharp corners while maneuvering around your table. 

Another highlight of this table is its design. Its silhouette is fuss-free, which doesn't detract from the rest of your decor, and it has A-framed legs for extra personality. Plus, it doesn't require any assembly since West Elm's white glove delivery will set it up for you. 

Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 42–60 inches by 42 inches by 30.4 inches | Capacity: 4–6 people

Walmart Desert Fields Jen Wood Indoor Dining Table
PHOTO: Walmart
Orig. $162 $160 at Walmart
What Stands Out
  • This dining table offers durability at a budget price.

What Could Be Improved
  • You can’t expand it to get additional seating.

This simple dining table by Desert Fields is a great fit for people with small budgets and even smaller dining rooms. It has a no-frills silhouette that won't overwhelm your space thanks to mid-century-inspired elements like tapered legs and rounded corners. You can also choose between a natural wood or white tabletop finish to fit your decor.   

Budget tables have a reputation for being flimsy, but this one is made out of solid wood, which makes it a durable option. Assembly is straightforward with the included tools; all it takes is attaching the legs. However, you can't adjust or expand the length of this table, so it may be a tight squeeze if you need to fit more than four people around it at once. 

With a width of 47 inches, this table can fit in the most cramped of spaces, and it's light, so it can be moved around without any effort. Liquids wipe away easily from its surface, which is a huge bonus in the case of an accidental spill or knockover while entertaining. In short, this table is stylish, durable, and budget-friendly—what more could you possibly want?  

Material: Solid wood | Dimensions: 47 by 29.50 by 29 Inches | Capacity: 2–4 people

What Stands Out
  • This dining table can fit two to 12 people to meet all of your seating needs.

What Could Be Improved
  • You need to find a place to store the extra panels it comes with.

The Transformer Table can adapt to pretty much any space, which makes it a worthy investment piece. At its smallest, it comfortably seats two people for seating in a small breakfast nook or dining space, but it can expand to fit 12 guests in a larger room. Because it's made from solid wood and steel, it's built to last and accompany you when you move to a bigger space. 

Another benefit of this table is that there's no assembly required, so it's ready to go as soon as it arrives on your doorstep. However, it does come with several panels that are used to extend its length, so you will need a place to store them when not in use. We also like that it comes in an array of stain- and scratch-resistant finish options that can match any home and hold up to daily messes. 

There is a matching extendable bench available that goes with this dining table, but they're sold separately, which might be a dealbreaker due to the price. If you already have chairs, though, this versatile dining table is sure to be a lasting addition to your home furnishings. 

Material: Solid wood, engineered wood, steel | Dimensions: 18 to 118 by 37.5 by 30 inches | Capacity: 2–12 people

What Stands Out
  • You can extend either one or both leaves to best fit your seating needs.

What Could Be Improved
  • It can only fit a maximum of four guests.

A drop-leaf table works well in small spaces because the sides can easily expand when you have company over and collapse back in when you need to save space. With this pick from West Elm, you can extend one or both sides at a time depending on how many people you need to seat. With both leaves collapsed, it's 24 inches wide, which can tuck discreetly into a corner in your space without taking up much room. Expanding both leaves doubles its width to 48 inches, which can comfortably seat four people, making it an ideal table for small gatherings.   

In addition to its functionality, this table also has a streamlined design made from durable materials. The solid mango wood top has a beautiful finish that brings warmth to your space, while the sturdy steel legs ensure it'll stand strong after years of use. Plus, the materials aren't too heavy, so it's easy to move and adjust as needed.

Material: Mango wood, steel | Dimensions: 32 by 24-48 by 30 inches | Capacity: 2–4 people

What Stands Out
  • This table has a simple assembly process and extends to fit six people.

What Could Be Improved
  • The materials aren’t as high-quality as other options.

If you need to pack a lot of seating into a cramped room, this extendable table is the way to go. It uses a butterfly leaf mechanism, which involves extending either side and pulling up a hidden middle panel to add extra seating. At its most compact, it's a mere 59 inches wide, but it can expand to up to 74.5 inches to seat six guests without feeling too squished. This table does require some assembly, but it couldn't be easier: Just attach the legs, and you're all set to enjoy your new table. 

With its angled legs and rich wood stain, this table has a sleek look that brings some mid-century charm to your dining room and can complement a variety of decor styles. The base is constructed from solid wood that can withstand wear and tear from entertaining, though the top is made from manufactured wood, which is more prone to damage without proper care. However, it's pretty easy to keep clean, so unless you have lots of rambunctious gatherings, this table will hold up well to everyday use. 

Material: Solid wood, manufactured wood | Dimensions: 29.5 by 59-74.5 by 35.4 inches | Capacity: 4–6

What Stands Out
  • This table is made from durable materials and has a unique base that will stand out in your dining room.

What Could Be Improved
  • The shape of the tabletop depends on its seating capacity.

This glass-topped table from Article has a barely there quality that can work with any space. The tempered glass tabletop creates the illusion of a more spacious dining room, while the sculptural base adds modern flair. The base is made from solid wood, which resists damage from bumps and scratches that occur with use. Some minor assembly is required, but Article estimates that it will take only 15 minutes to complete. 

This table comes with several customization options to best suit your seating needs. You can select between light, medium, and dark finishes for the table base, and you can choose between a round tabletop with a seating capacity of two to four people and a rectangular tabletop that can fit four to six people. For truly cramped dining rooms, the two-to-four-person option will be the best fit, as it has a circular shape, which has a smaller footprint and lets you squeeze in a couple of extra seats. If your space is a little larger, or if you frequently host, the rectangular tabletop may be a better choice. No matter which one you go with, this quality table will bring lasting style to your space.

Material: Solid wood, tempered glass | Dimensions: 30 by 47.25 inches or 30 by 71 by 35.5 inches | Capacity: 2–4 or 4–6 people

What Stands Out
  • This sleek table has a steel base and is available in white and gold finish options.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s very heavy to move.

This circular dining table is as sleek as it is sturdy. Made with a steel base, it doesn't wobble around, nor is it prone to damage from accidental kicks or run ins. The tabletop itself is made from medium-density fiberboard, which is also pretty durable though not as lasting as solid wood. Additionally, it is pretty hefty; the assembled table weighs 71 pounds. If you live by yourself, you might want to call a friend to help you move it into your home when it arrives. 

Because this table has a pedestal base, you can squeeze however many chairs you want around it without running into table legs, though Target recommends seating a max of four people to ensure that everyone is comfortable. While it's not recommended for outdoor use, its smooth and easy-to-clean lacquered tabletop makes it a good choice for a breakfast nook or small dining room. 

There is some light assembly required to set up this table, but Target provides all the tools required to do so. We also like how it's available in gold and white finish options, which add a modern and luxe touch to any space and can help brighten up a dark, cramped room.  

Material: Steel, medium-density fiberboard | Dimensions: 30 by 41.35 by 41.35 inches | Capacity: 4 people

What Stands Out
  • It’s made from strong acacia wood, which brings durable style to your home.

What Could Be Improved
  • You can’t customize the finish.

The Seb Dining table from Castlery graces your dining room with a warm, mid-century-inspired design. Made from hardy acacia wood, this table doesn't damage easily and is more resistant to warping, moisture, and pests than other types of wood. It only comes in one finish; the honey-toned hue has a natural look that lets natural imperfections shine through for lots of rustic charm. The tapered legs create a smooth silhouette that blends with your existing decor and attach easily during assembly, making it practically effortless to set up your new dining table.  

While you may not be able to customize the finish, you can add on matching seating, which includes chairs or benches in your choice of wood or upholstery. At 59 inches long, this table can seat six guests without the risk of elbow bumps or awkward scooching, and it has rounded corners to prevent painful bumps. However, it may not be the best choice for small studios or apartments that lack a designated dining space because it doesn't have an extendable or drop-leaf design, meaning you'd have to maneuver around your table constantly. But if you have the space, this elegant dining table is sure to be a lasting fixture in your home.  

Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 59 by 31.4 by 29. inches | Capacity: 4–6 people

What Stands Out
  • This modern dining table has an exceptionally durable concrete build.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s quite heavy and difficult to move.

The ultra-sleek CB2 Lola Round Black Concrete Dining Table is a dream come true for modern decor lovers. With its wide base and clean lines, it helps anchor your dining space without too much distraction. It provides a smooth, 45-inch tabletop surface for eating and entertaining, which is enough space for four roomy table settings. Available in a black or ivory finish, this table can fit your existing decor scheme with ease. 

With this dining table, you don't have to worry about accidental scratches, dents, or stains ruining your furniture. It's built from sturdy concrete, which resists the wear and tear of daily use and can stay looking good-as-new for a while. It also requires minimal cleaning—just wipe up spills with a clean cloth, and you're good to go. 

Keep in mind that this dining table is very heavy. Bringing it into your home and assembling is a two-person job, especially if you live above the first floor, and it may be tricky to shift around your space as needed. However, if you don't anticipate moving soon and are searching for a statement-making and substantial dining table, this one is hard to beat. 

Material: Concrete | Dimensions: 45 by 31.5 inches | Capacity: 4 people

What Stands Out
  • This sturdy dining table makes an impression with its rustic detailing and inexpensive price.

What Could Be Improved
  • It has a rectangular tabletop, which isn’t as conducive to small-space living.

If you're keen on bringing some farmhouse flair into your home, the Dannie Solid Wood Dining Table makes for an excellent choice. Details like a natural finish, accented legs, and light distressing nail the farmhouse aesthetic, bringing a rustic quality to your space. The tabletop is made from solid rubberwood, which is a type of wood that's as durable as it is inexpensive, ensuring you'll get a lot of bang for your buck when it comes to your table's lifespan. You can also choose between a white and a gray finish to customize your table's base to your decor. 

This table can accommodate five to six guests with its 47-inch-long tabletop. While circular tables are typically recommended for small spaces, rectangular tables such as this one have their benefits, too: They offer a more traditional look, they let you tuck your chair in all the way, and they're easier to place against a wall or corner, giving you more options when it comes to arranging your decor. Another plus? The only assembly step is to screw the legs on, so you can enjoy your new table in no time.

Material: Solid rubberwood | Dimensions: 32 by 47 by 30 inches | Capacity: 5–6 people

What Stands Out
  • This dining table has a low footprint, making it ideal for spaces that lack a true dining room.

What Could Be Improved
  • It may be a bit cramped if more than two people try to sit down at the same time.

The golden rule for small space decorating? Think vertically. The Wade Logan Mequon Solid Wood Base Dining Table is ideal for sneaking some dining space into your kitchen or living room without cluttering your home. Its tall frame draws the eye up to make your space look less cramped, and it has a width of only 17 inches, so it won't jut out too far when placed against a wall. This table can seat two people on either side, but because it's narrow, you may deal with some knee-knocking if you choose to place stools on both sides. 

We're big fans of this dining table’s design. The tapered legs give off major mid-century vibes, and the rich brown finish complements lots of decor schemes to give you endless styling options. Due to its height, you'll need to get a set of bar stools to go with it, which is something to be mindful of if you're trying to stick to a budget. Otherwise, this slim dining table is a great fit for your kitchen counter, coffee bar, and other small-space seating needs.  

Material: Solid and engineered wood | Dimensions: 42.25 by 17.75 by 17.75 inches | Capacity: 2–4 people

What Stands Out
  • It’s a gorgeous statement piece.

What Could Be Improved
  • It has a unique style, which isn’t ideal for people who prefer more traditional decor.

A pedestal-style dining table has a rounded base as opposed to open legs, which creates a smooth look and makes it easier to squeeze in extra chairs. Unlike most pedestal dining tables, the Kendall Solid Wood Stone Dining Table from AllModern is supported by cut-out panels of kiln-dried acacia wood, which gives the base a relaxed and airy vibe. On top, this table is decorated with a stone terrazzo surface, adding just the right amount of spunk for a statement-making table. 

Stone and acacia wood have the benefit of being exceptionally durable materials that can hold up to hosting and looks stylish while doing so. They are pretty heavy, though, so you’ll need at least two people to maneuver it.  If you need help with the heavy lifting, AllModern offers free white glove delivery that will place and assemble your table in a room of your choice. 

This table stands at 30 inches tall and has a diameter of 46 inches, which is enough room for four people to sit and eat comfortably. For other types of entertaining, like casual chit-chat or relaxed card games, you can get away with adding a few more chairs so that everyone can enjoy your gathering and your beautiful dining table.  

Material: Kiln-dried acacia wood, stone | Dimensions: 30 by 46 inches | Capacity: 4 people

What Stands Out
  • This elegant dining table has a cabinet tucked inside its base to store extra clutter.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s not ideal for people who prefer legs as opposed to a pedestal base.

The key to making the most of a cramped living situation is to maximize storage wherever possible—even in your dining table. The Birch Lane Varuna Round Dining Table has a deep cabinet inside its base that lets you store extra dinnerware, table linens, or other belongings that need a home. The vertical wood paneling also disguises its storage cubby to create a sleeker look. 

Hidden storage isn't the only thing that makes this table great for small abodes. Because it lacks the harsh corners of a rectangular table, it has a lower visual footprint that makes your space seem bigger and makes it easier to maneuver around your table while hosting. It has a diameter of 55 inches, with which you can comfortably fit six people (or up to eight people so long as your guests don't mind being a little cozy). 

This table is built from mango wood, which is known for its beautiful finish and durability. You can choose between two finishes: an unfinished wood with a lighter, minimalist appeal, and a rich brown stain for a more traditional style. With either finish, you'll be sure to have a stunning new dining table in your space that you can cherish down the road.   

Material: Mango wood | Dimensions: 29.9 by 55.1 by 55.1 inches | Capacity: 6 people

What Stands Out
  • This sturdy dining table set includes chairs, so you don’t have to purchase them separately.

What Could Be Improved
  • You can’t squeeze additional seats around the table.

Frontgate is known for its high-quality outdoor furniture offerings, and this dining table set is no exception. It includes four stackable chairs and a foldable dining table, making it ideal for small spaces that may be lacking in storage. The table also has an umbrella hole to help you stay out of the sun on hot days. 

This dining table set is a splurge, but it was made with longevity in mind. The tables and chairs are made from performance-grade wicker that's resistant to water damage and can withstand temperatures up to 176°F, so it can stand up to all kinds of climates and weather patterns. It's also easy to wipe down and keep clean, so you don't have to worry about spills ruining your patio furniture

Because the dining table doesn't have a pedestal base, it may be awkward to sit more than four guests around it, as the legs will get in the way—if you frequently entertain, you may prefer a table that's a little more forgiving when it comes to seating capacity. If you're looking for a simple, well-made dining table set that can outlast the elements, on the other hand, you can't go wrong with this one.

Material: Steel, resin wicker | Dimensions: 41 by 41 by 29 inches | Capacity: 4 people

Final Verdict

We chose the West Elm Mid-Century Rounded Expandable Dining Table as our No. 1 pick because it combines style, durability, and versatile design into one product. For a budget-friendly option, the Desert Fields Jen Wood Indoor Dining Table is made from solid wood and has a simple, minimalist silhouette that works well in small spaces.

How to Shop for Small Dining Tables Like a Pro

Size and Shape

Small dining tables typically come in circular, rectangular, or square tabletops. While square and rectangular have a more traditional look, Jenkins prefers circular ones because you can center them to the space and add chairs as needed when hosting, making them more adaptable. 

When it comes to size, it’s also important to consider how much space you need around your table. Jenkins recommends aiming for at least 35 inches of space between the wall and table edge to ensure your guests have ample room to get up and push their chairs back. She also advises to consider whether it’ll be placed near an entry or kitchen island, for example, in which case you may need extra room for both the seated person and anyone moving around them. If you can’t find an option that fits in your space, Jenkins suggests a dining banquette with a round table, as they allow for the table to be closer to the wall because you’re not worried about chairs being pulled out.

Material

The material of your dining table affects both its longevity and its style. For a long-lasting table, opt for sturdy materials like solid wood, steel, and stone, which can stand up to daily use without breaking down and complement both modern and traditional decor. Tables made from fiberboard and metal are more affordable, but they may not last as long if you don’t take proper care of them. 

Jenkins prefers materials like wood, stone, and plaster because they bring warmth and grounding to any space and tend to go with every design style. If you prefer an edgier and more industrial vibe, a metal or concrete dining table like the CB2 Lola Round Black Concrete Dining Table is the way to go.

Seating Capacity

Consider how many people usually sit down to eat at your dining table to determine the best seating capacity. Most small dining tables sit up to four people, but if you have a larger family or like to entertain frequently, an extendable dining table can fit everyone without taking up too much room. Also, pay attention to how much space is in between each table setting. Jenkins says that a good guideline is to allow at least 24 inches of space around a person and up to 31 inches if you’d like to provide a bit more arm room.

Shipping and Assembly

Some dining tables come pre-assembled, while others do not. Most vendors have their shipping options and assembly process listed under the item description, so you can check it out before purchasing to know what you’re signing up for. If you’re DIY-challenged, consider retailers like West Elm that offer white glove delivery, meaning your table will be fully assembled upon arrival. 

Questions You Might Ask

What dining table shape is best in a small space?

Round dining tables offer the most flexibility in a small space because they’re compact and let you adjust your seating arrangement as needed. As long as your guests have space to push back chairs and maneuver around your table, a rectangular or square option can also work.

What type of dining table makes a space look bigger?

When it comes to shape, a round or oval table will make a space appear bigger since they lack harsh corners or edges, Jenkins says. You can also consider tables made from materials like glass, steel, and light wood finishes, which take up less visual weight and make your room look larger. When possible, opt for dining tables that have vertical details, like long legs, which can create the illusion of a taller space.

How do I choose the right size table for my space?

The main thing to consider is spacing. To make sure you can comfortably eat and walk around your space, allow at least 24 inches of elbow room and 35 inches from the edge of the table to the wall, Jenkins says. She also says to consider the number of people who will be eating on a regular basis and if you plan on entertaining regularly to determine how long your table needs to be as well as its seating capacity. Lastly, allow for walking space around entry points and nearby furniture or cabinetry, so that your dining table works with your furnishings instead of against them. 

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Jen Woo, a freelance design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, she thoroughly researched dining tables and considered factors like seating capacity, durability, and ease of assembly to make her final picks. For expert advice on how to shop for small dining tables, Jen spoke to Brodie Jenkins, the interior designer behind Enchanted Berkeley.

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