We evaluated 15 pieces of outdoor furniture for its setup, design, durability, and quality. For more information on how we tested patio furniture, check out our testing process below.
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Because there are so many different patio furniture designs out there, it can be difficult to decide which options are durable, stylish, and worth the money. To help you find the right fit for your home, we tested 15 different dining sets, benches, and other seating right at home. Over the course of two weeks, we evaluated each piece for its ease of setup, design, durability, quality, and value. We also consulted Alexandra and Catherine Davin, co-founders of Clairrow, an online interior design service.
“As with any project, we recommend that you primarily design for your lifestyle,” says Alexandra Davin, co-founder of Clairrow. “Think about the space and how you’d truly like to use it. Do you want to nap on a comfy sofa with outdoor cushions? Or would you prefer a table and chairs so you can dine al fresco?”
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, so it’s understandable if you want to create your own personal oasis, whether you have a small balcony or a sprawling patio. Twinkling string lights and potted plants aside, however, you’ll also need durable, comfortable, and stylish outdoor furniture to finish off the space.
This set looked good as new even after we left it uncovered in rain storms, heat waves, and other inclement weather. During testing, kids jumped on it, dogs and cats sat on it, and we ate on it, and there wasn't any damage to the cushions or the furniture. Although it's an investment, we think its durability and that it comes assembled makes it worth the splurge.
It’s worth noting that the set does not come with a table, a feature we wish was included. Otherwise, we loved the set overall and are confident that it’ll last for years to come.
While using the set, we noticed that the cushion fabric never got hot or sticky, and while the pieces were also subject to some bird droppings, they were easy to wipe down. We also experienced storms, strong sunshine, and fire-induced smog during testing, none of which seemed to cause any issues for the pieces.
The set is offered in either black or gray and is made of aluminum, a durable and lightweight material. It was delivered a few days after we ordered it and we loved that it was placed where we wanted it on our cement patio and unboxed the pieces for us, making assembly seamless.
Article’s Calicut Coast Loveseat Set may be more of an investment than other options but after testing the set at home, it’s some of the best patio furniture we tried. The three-piece set includes a loveseat and two chairs that we felt were both supportive and comfortable.
The delivery team placed the furniture where we wanted it and unboxed it for us.
We tested this bench for almost one year and left it uncovered, exposing it to rain, wind, hail, and snow. The bench remained in great condition and we didn't notice any warping, discoloration, or other damage. We recommend purchasing a seat cushion for added comfort, though we still thought this bench was a great purchase overall.
There is a cushion for this bench , but keep in mind that it’s sold separately. We purchased a white cushion, and it does show stains from dirt and debris. Since the cushion can only be spot cleaned, we’d recommend purchasing a different color.
The bench is offered in five different colors, so you’ll be able to choose which one that suits your space. We placed it on our front entry patio and while we wouldn’t recommend lounging in it for a long time, it was a comfortable spot to sit. It felt sturdy overall, and we also liked the height of the back of the chair as it offered some additional back support.
The Grandin Road Amalfi Bench is a great choice for a front porch or if you need additional seating in your garden. It only took us about 30 minutes to assemble and since it’s not very heavy, we could easily move it around.
We didn't notice any damage to the set and after six months, we liked the rustic patina that was forming. If we could change anything, we would have liked if the arms on the chair were wider so we could rest a beverage on it. Otherwise, we thought this set was a great value.
The cushions could be easily washed, but we appreciated that they were reversible so we could keep the cleaner side up between cleanings.
During testing, we felt that the frame and table weighed enough to withstand being left outside during inclement weather. We often brought the cushions inside, however, and noted they sometimes became lightly stained by bird droppings, dirt, and other debris.
The furniture experienced both very hot weather and heavy rain with moderate wind, neither of which impacted the pieces. We didn’t notice any fading or damage while trying them out and felt that the pieces were secure overall.
While testing the set, we felt that the chairs seemed a bit narrow and might be tight for larger users. That being said, the pieces in the set were comfortable and stylish–we had guests over and a few even bought the set after trying ours. Just keep in mind that the set’s sofa seemed more like a loveseat that could comfortably seat two people, so it’s not ideal if you need it to entertain large groups.
The furniture arrived completely unassembled in one box, and we needed two people to carry it. The pieces were packaged well, and we especially liked that the hardware set for each furniture piece was organized into its own bag, making assembly easy.
After testing this Christopher Knight Carolina Sofa Set , we noted that it was one of the best pieces we’ve ever owned. The four-piece set includes a small sofa, two chairs, and a coffee table, and we found that it was a comfortable spot to sit in.
The set was tested in the Pacific Northwest and was able to withstand both wind and rain. We were not as diligent as we should have been with bringing the chair cushions inside during bouts of rain, but we ended up liking the look of the set more without them anyway. We didn't notice any wear and tear on the set. Leaves, seeds, and other debris often got stuck in the intricate design, but it was easy to wipe them off.
We experienced two thunderstorms while testing this set and were pleased with how it held up both times. There were some beads of water on the cushions and they didn’t take too long to dry. Though the pieces held up well, we’d still recommend bringing them in ahead of inclement weather, especially since the removable cushion covers are not machine washable.
Overall, we liked the set and thought it was a good spot for regular sitting, like enjoying a cup of coffee. The chairs feature a curved back that offers subtle support, and we never felt any pain or discomfort while using them. We also used the set to entertain guests that are senior citizens, and they remarked that the seats were comfortable to use.
This Devoko furniture set had a straightforward assembly that only took us about an hour to complete. We especially appreciated that all the screws were the same size, so it was easy to just grab one as you needed it.
This Devoko Wicker Patio Conversation Set is ideal for your outdoor space if you have a small area or just want to add some extra seating. We placed it on our wooden deck and found that it was a comfortable spot to lounge.
We put this bistro set in our backyard and noted that it could withstand rain, snow, and the sun. There were some minor chips of paint but other than that, we didn't see any rust or discoloration throughout the set. Overall, we found it sturdy and comfortable to use and we also liked the design, which made for a decorative addition to our space.
The set is made of aluminum, so it was lightweight and easy to move. Though we noted that the pieces felt cheaper than we would have expected, the chairs still felt sturdy and supportive.
This set was tested in Des Moines, Iowa and was subjected to both heavy rain showers and very hot days. Regardless of the weather, the set held up and we didn’t notice any damage or fading throughout the testing period.
Although bistro sets are compact, we felt that this set seemed small. However, we appreciated the height of the seat in comparison to the table and felt that it was a great space to enjoy a cup of coffee or a small meal. Just keep in mind that the set is only offered in a bold teal shade that may not suit everyone’s taste.
We were able to set up the table and chairs within 30 minutes and two sets of hands, which we recommend if you purchase this set. Though we were initially overwhelmed by the amount of parts it came with, the instructions were clear and it was easier than we anticipated.
This bistro set by The Pioneer Woman is the perfect patio furniture if you’re furnishing a small space . The set includes two chairs and a compact table and can work on a patio, in a garden, or even on a balcony.
It only took 30 minutes to assemble, and the chairs were lightweight and easy to move.
We left this set on our deck for the six-month testing period and were impressed that it held up well against high winds, rain, freezing temperatures, and direct sunlight. We didn't see any signs of rust or discoloration on the set, and the seat cushions seemed to hold up as well. Overall, we enjoyed using this set and felt that we would highly recommend it.
We used the set in warmer weather and were impressed that it never became too hot or uncomfortable to sit on. Overall, we felt that the set was a great value and will last for years to come.
The set’s weight and mesh design were no match for any inclement weather. The set stayed put as wind seemed to blow right through the pieces. The cushions seemed to be waterproofed as rainwater beads formed on them, versus being completely soaked. The cushions didn’t take long to dry, but keep in mind that they aren’t machine washable, so you may still want to store them during a storm.
The set may seem compact, but we noted that four people could comfortably sit at the table and have more than enough legroom. We even received compliments on how comfortable the set was. Though the pieces are made of wrought iron, we found that the chairs were easy to move and get in and out of.
We were impressed with our Better Homes & Gardens Clayton Court Set during independent testing, making it some of the best patio furniture we tried. The five-piece set includes a table and four chairs that were easy to assemble.
The Bottom Line
The best patio furniture for your outdoor space is based on a few aspects, such as the size of your outdoor space, how often you intend to use it, and how many people plan to use it. If you enjoy entertaining al fresco, we recommend the Walker Edison Delray Classic 6 Piece Acacia Wood Outdoor X Back Dining Set as there’s an extendable table and more seating than other sets. For a front patio or garden, the Grandin Road Amalfi Bench will make for a stylish and comfortable addition. The Article Calicut Set is the best option if your outdoor space needs additional seating that’s durable, comfortable, and will stay in good condition throughout the year.
Our Testing Process
To find the best patio furniture, we put 15 products to the test right at home. Over the course of two weeks, we evaluated four dining sets, two zero-gravity chairs, eight sectionals/conversation sets, and one bench, keeping in mind delivery, setup, design, durability, quality, and value.
Once we received the pieces, we took into consideration ease of delivery, including the quality of packaging, and how easy it was to unbox and assemble the sets. As we used the furniture, we napped, dined, drank, and entertained with each piece to determine how comfortable they were to use. We also noted warping, chipping, abrasions, and other flaws throughout the testing period.
We also took into consideration how the pieces fared during any inclement weather we experienced, as well as how easy they were to maintain over time.
Better Homes & Gardens / Lucas Peters
What to Know About Outdoor Patio Furniture Before Shopping
Material
Since this furniture will be outdoors, the material is perhaps the most important detail to consider. Aluminum is a popular choice as it's lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain. If you prefer the look of wood, consider teak styles as they're durable and will naturally patina over time as opposed to decaying.
"Another beautiful choice is wrought iron. It's heavier than aluminum, so there's little chance of it being blown over," Alexandra says. "Wrought iron furniture will often come with a higher price tag, but the quality should last for years. If your patio is covered, you may opt for wicker and rattan outdoor furniture. The natural materials give your outdoor space a beautiful, organic feel, but they can't handle prolonged exposure to extreme sunlight or rain. Note that there are synthetic options, made from a resin, that provide the same woven look of natural rattan and will withstand the elements."
Weight Capacity
An item's weight capacity refers to the recommended amount of weight the item can handle. The weight capacity ranges and can depend on what the item is as well as its size and material. Both seating and tables tend to have a capacity upwards of 200 pounds, but you'll want to confirm to ensure you're purchasing a durable item.
Though weight capacity is important to consider for every furniture purchase, pay extra attention to the capacity for swings and other hanging seating since those will be attached to frames, roofs, or ceilings.
Included Pieces
Whether you're using your outdoor furniture for entertaining guests or just as a family gathering spot, you'll want to choose designs that work for your lifestyle. A dining set can include anywhere from two to 10 chairs while sectionals range in the amount of seating they offer. Pay attention to whether a dining table includes chairs or if a seating option includes cushions. If they don't, those will be additional costs you'll have to take on, whereas some other furniture options may include them.
Other Patio Furniture We Tested
Devoko 5 Pieces Patio Furniture Set
The Devoko 5 Pieces Patio Furniture Set is less expensive than other options and was both lightweight and sturdy. It took us about three hours to assemble, however, and one of the cushions appeared to have mold growing on it. The cushions felt quite thin as well, so the set was not the most comfortable option we tested.
Best Choice Products 7-Piece Modular Outdoor Sectional Wicker Patio Furniture Conversation Sofa Set
While testing the Products 7-Piece Modular Outdoor Sectional Wicker Patio Furniture Conversation Sofa Set we felt that it was fairly comfortable, and it held up well against some inclement weather. We were frustrated that the cushions seemed to move around quite a bit though, and we had to assemble the entire thing, which took about two hours.
Sunjoy Zero Gravity Chair
The Sunjoy Zero Gravity Chair arrived fully assembled, so it only took us about two minutes to assemble. The seat portion of the chair was comfortable, and it didn’t get too hot while sitting in the sun. The chair began to rust after experiencing two days of rain, however, and we also noticed some scratches when we unboxed it.
Better Homes & Gardens / Jennifer May
Your Questions, Answered
How do you style outdoor furniture?
Like any room in your home, styling your outdoor space comes down to your personal aesthetic. However, if you're not sure where to start, Alexandra suggests considering your surroundings and going from there.
"Remember that this space is subject to Mother Nature, so design your outdoor area with that in mind," she says. "Think about lighting—dining on the patio is amazing, but you are suddenly eating in the dark when you lose the sunlight. Perhaps you add string lights to your design for both functionality and character or incorporate a seating area staged around a propane fireplace to cozy up to after the sun goes down. The same goes for harsh sunlight during the day. Consider adding a pergola or shade structure to your outdoor design for aesthetic purposes and relief from the afternoon heat."
How should I store outdoor furniture?
If you live in an area where you can't sit outdoors all year round, you'll want to ensure that your furniture is properly protected until you can use it again. If you have foldable tables and stackable chairs, you can store them in a garage or shed without taking up too much space. If you're handling larger pieces, like long dining tables and sectionals, there are weather-proof furniture covers that'll wrap around the pieces and protect them from the elements.
Who We Are
Jamie Weissman is a commerce editor with two years of experience researching and writing about home products. To make this list, she considered each pick's material, weight capacity, and number of included pieces. She also consulted Alexandra Davin and Catherine Davin, co-founders of Clairrow, an online interior design service.
Longer, warmer days ahead mean there’s more time to spend outside. To turn your yard into the oasis of your dreams, our expert home editors scouted out the best patio furniture for any space. From a Parisian-inspired bistro set to a cushioned wicker seating group, these stylish, durable outdoor pieces will make the most of your space while setting the stage for outdoor gatherings.
Our editors chose the best patio furniture that is equal parts stylish, comfortable and durable.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERAccording to senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone, if you want to snag the best prices on outdoor furniture, purchase pieces off season. “Labor Day is the absolute best time to shop patio furniture sales,” she says. “Retailers are often looking to clear out their inventories ahead of the colder months, so you can find awesome deals on pieces to save for the following spring and summer.” Cuzzone also recommends shopping Memorial Day patio furniture deals—many brands offer deep discounts to mark the unofficial start of summer. Below, find our picks for the best patio furniture, many of which are used by Forbes Vetted editors.
Wayfair
Materials: Acacia wood, polyester | Colors: 3 total, including Cream and Blue | Warranty: 90-day limited warranty
Best for: Families and small groups who enjoy socializing outdoors.
This outdoor furniture set is fashioned from sleek acacia wood, which is both durable and elegant-looking. The four-person sofa consists of six sectional pieces, each complete with water-resistant cushions made of polyester. Meanwhile, a generously sized square table holds appetizers, drinks and more. In addition to neutral Cream, the cushions also come in more vibrant shades of Blue and Green.
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Sunvilla
Materials: Wicker, aluminum, eucalyptus wood, Ecobello fabric | Colors: Light Gray | Warranty: 1-year warranty from purchase date
Best for: Larger groups who like having casual outdoor meals.
Proof that you don’t have to sacrifice durability for décor, Sunvilla’s seven-piece sectional set is made with strong yet stylish materials like solid kiln-dried wood and durable weatherproof upholstery. It includes a three-seater sofa, a club chair and an ottoman that can be used (and moved around) as a chaise or an additional seat. You also get a matching coffee table, which provides just enough room for a couple of glasses and appetizer plates.
What our editors say: “I chose this as a starter set because it offers comfort, function and versatility, plus great value,” says senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. “All in all, it's a beautiful collection that can be used for lounging, sipping cocktails or enjoying casual outdoor meals. Two things to note: I have noticed some weathering spots on the table, though that's probably to be expected. And although this set is durable, I recommend getting a cover to keep it clean in inclement weather for easier maintenance.”
Frontgate
Materials: Wicker, teak wood | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
Best for: Smaller groups who prefer intimate, relaxed get-togethers.
The beachy, coastal vibe of Frontgate’s outdoor furniture collection makes any patio setup feel like a mini vacation. This three-piece loveseat set is made with wide-woven wicker and rich teak wood, both of which add to that relaxed feeling. While Frontgate’s furnishings are certainly luxurious, they don’t feel stuffy or highbrow. Add a few patterned throw pillows to infuse the set with your own personality, or go minimal with a cushion-free look.
Wayfair
Materials: Eucalyptus wood, polyester | Colors: Sand/Beige | Warranty: 30-day warranty through Wayfair
For more information, please visit weiye.
Best for: Those who like furniture with a lived-in feel.
Combining elegance with practicality, this outdoor sofa from Lark Manor stands up to the elements without sacrificing style. The eucalyptus wood frame is paired with weather-resistant cushions in a neutral hue. A set of patterned throw pillows add a touch of personality to the otherwise simple design. Keep in mind that this pick requires assembly, however multiple customers note that the process is straightforward and easy.
West Elm
Materials: Aluminum, olefin | Colors: 23 total, including Pumice and Ocean | Warranty: 3-year Allstate protection plan for an additional $300
Best for: Design mavens who like modern, minimalist patio furniture.
If you’re looking to add a modern edge to your patio, you should consider this sleek choice from West Elm. The rustproof aluminum frame is accompanied by weather-resistant Olefin cushions in a neutral gray shade, but you can also purchase cushion covers in other hues like Charcoal and Ocean. Smooth, rounded corners give this couch a particularly inviting feel, inspiring you to kick back and relax for a while.
CB2
Materials: Iron, UV-treated Sunbrella fabric | Colors: Snow | Warranty: None (30-day return policy)
Best for: Those who value thoughtful design in addition to a sturdy construction.
If an outdoor sofa with modern design details and clean lines is more your style, CB2’s Martreau Black Iron Sofa is a solid choice. The Martreau features an elegant hammered iron frame with tapered feet, giving it both a chic and vintage aesthetic. The sofa isn’t all design flairs; many reviewers say the cushions are comfortable and quite durable, thanks to their colorfast, UV-resistant Sunbrella covers.
frontgate
Materials: Resin wicker, kiln-dried teak | Colors: Weathered finish | Warranty: 1-year guarantee, 10-year frame warranty
Best for: Those who want a roomy, low-maintenance option with a coastal vibe.
Those looking for a stylish outdoor sofa with an easy-breezy vibe—and that requires minimal maintenance—will find plenty to love in Frontgate’s Isola sofa. Made from resin wicker that’s naturally moisture resistant and crafted with an open weave, the Isola is designed to withstand both hot, dry climates and humid, chilly weather. The teak frame, meanwhile, is kiln-dried to curb any shrinkage or expansion. Several users like the deep seats, especially those with families or ones who want to add accent pillows.
Home Depot
Materials: Steel, polyester | Colors: Putty tan | Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on frame and fabric
Best for: Large families who regularly dine outside.
From occasional dinner parties to weekly family dinners, this seven-piece dining set from Hampton Bay makes eating outside an absolute delight. Complete with a steel dining table, two captain chairs and four dining chairs, this set gives your patio a sophisticated yet approachable feel. The pillows are reinforced with the brand’s signature CushionGuard technology, which makes them resistant to tears, stains and fading.
Pottery Barn
Materials: Concrete, acacia wood | Colors: 2 total, including Gray Wash and Brown | Warranty: None
Best for: Entertainers who enjoy whipping up cocktails for guests.
If you have the budget, Pottery Barn’s always-on-trend collections are not to be missed. This outdoor bar is made with sleek, kiln-dried acacia wood and durable concrete, effortlessly combining form with function. It’s all in the details: an integrated bottle opener, towel hooks and drawers are provided to assist you as you whip up drinks for your guests.
Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Materials: Aluminum | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Best for: Those with smaller patios who want a relaxing spot to sip coffee.
Ashley Furniture is a trusted retailer that covers every room in the home, including outdoor spaces. Our advice: Take a look at the brand’s affordable bistro sets, like the metal one here. They’re quintessentially Parisian with classic, just-ornate-enough details. Made of cast aluminum with an anti-rust coating, the chairs and table have a distinctly vintage look that will retain its charming luster over time.
Amazon
Materials: Eucalyptus wood, polyester | Colors: Brown/Cream | Warranty: 2-year furniture protection plan for an additional $55
Best for: Budget-savvy shoppers who still want a high-quality patio set.
This acacia wood sofa set from Christopher Knight Home is conveniently available through Amazon, and it comes at an incredibly reasonable price. The loveseat and chairs come with cream-colored cushions that are easy to clean—just toss the polyester covers in the washing machine. The set’s pared down design makes it perfect for more compact spaces, and reviewers say that it’s easy to put together. However, if you plan on keeping it outdoors throughout the seasons, you should invest in a furniture wax to protect the wood.
Amazon
Materials: Steel, wicker, polyester | Colors: 3 total, including Beige and Peacock Blue | Warranty: 2-year protection plan for an additional $55; 3-year protection plan for $57
Best for: Those who want a durable couch without the large monetary investment.
If you want a comfy couch that doesn’t cost a fortune, look no further than this simple, affordable wicker model. While it may not come from a well-known brand, several reviewers have mentioned that it’s sturdy and holds its quality over time. The water-repellent polyester cushions come in four colors: Gray, Turquoise, Beige and Peacock Blue.
Wayfair
Materials: Acacia wood, polyester | Colors: 7 total, including Gray/Beige and Natural/Aqua | Warranty: 30-day warranty through Wayfair
Best for: Those who appreciate being able to move furniture pieces around.
Wayfair is a great place to find top-quality furniture at reasonable prices, like this four-person set from Sand & Stable. With an acacia wood frame and weathered steel hardware, the conversation set has a natural look that blends in with many décor styles. The weather-resistant cushions come in Green, Aqua, Black, Red and Beige.
Pottery Barn
Materials: Steel, wicker, polyester | Colors: 67 total, including Dove and Amber (cushions) | Warranty: None
Best for: Those with small patios who prefer understated, subtle furniture designs.
Featuring thick cushions covered in performance fabric and an all-weather wicker frame, this minimalist loveseat has a distinctly organic feel. Ideal for apartment patios and terraces, the piece measures just 44.5 inches long—it’s the perfect size for two people.
Wayfair
Materials: Aluminum, Sunbrella acrylic | Colors: Black and White | Warranty: 6-month limited
Best for: Anyone who needs just a little more seating.
Use this ottoman as extra seating, a foot stool or a convenient resting spot for snacks and magazines. With a powder-coated aluminum frame and a UV-resistant polyester cushion, the ottoman acts as a versatile accent piece that can handle hot, sunny days and the occasional rain shower.
Wayfair
Materials: Wicker, iron, glass | Colors: Light Brown | Warranty: 90-day limited warranty
Best for: Couples or pairs of friends who enjoy sharing drinks on the patio.
With a breezy wicker weave and sturdy iron legs, these faux rattan chairs help turn your small patio into your own mini oasis. They come with a glass-top ottoman that can hold a pair of cocktails, a candle or a small vase. Neutral beige cushions complete the chic set.
L.L.Bean
Materials: Acrylic fabric, steel, polyester | Colors: 2 total, including Navy/Gray multi and Green/Sand multi | Warranty: None
Best for: Those who enjoy outdoor naps and lengthy lounging sessions.
While it may be an unconventional choice for lounge furniture, this quilted hammock will quickly become your new favorite resting spot. Made of fade- and mildew-resistant acrylic fabric, the hard-wearing hammock stands up to spills like a champ. You can mount it between two trees or wooden beams, but we recommend picking up the accompanying hammock stand, which is sold separately.
What our editors say: “This hammock is an ideal place to read and nap on sunnier days,” says editorial director Brinda Ayer. “It's made of a super comfortable and plush fabric that is easy to clean (in many cases, you can just wipe stuff off—especially liquids, if you like to enjoy a cold beverage in your hammock like I do). Like with so many L.L. Bean products, the construction of this hammock is solid and feels extremely durable; I'm not worried about rolling around or having the supporting ropes fray or snap.”
Amazon
Materials: Aluminum, polyester | Colors: 20 total, including Aqua and Sand | Warranty: None
Best for: Those with larger patio sets who need ample coverage from the sun.
For patios without a lot of shade, a large, a sweeping umbrella makes a huge difference in how comfortable your seating area is. This 9-foot pick, which we also named the best patio umbrella after rigorous testing, is made of sun- and water-resistant fabric. For added convenience, there’s a manual crank that allows you to tilt the umbrella up to 30 degrees. There are several hues to pick from, including Cobalt, Khaki and Forest Green.
What our editors say: “It has a classic appearance that will look good on any patio, and of all the umbrellas I tested, it had the best features for the price,” says Forbes Vetted contributor Camryn Rabideau. “During testing, I found this umbrella simple to operate thanks to its sturdy crank, which is easy to access and turn, as well as its auto-tilt mechanism, which lets you find the right angle to block the sun.”
Amazon
Materials: Aluminum, iron, polyester | Colors: 6 total, including Dark Gray and Tan | Warranty: None
Best for: Entertainers who keep the gathering going well into the night.
This 7.5-foot umbrella stands out from others on the market, thanks to its strategically placed LED lights. Powered by a discreet solar panel on the top of the umbrella, the lights offer extra visibility when your get-together lasts well into the evening. A hand crank allows you to adjust the umbrella’s angle, so you can enjoy the shade no matter where you’re sitting.
What our editors say: I've been so pleased with the Blissun,” says senior mattress and sleep editor Bridget Chapman. “It's lightweight, but it has stayed in great condition through heavy rain and wind. I really like how attractive and convenient the solar-powered LED lights are, too.” She adds, “I've found that pairing it with a heavier umbrella base helps keep it stable. I've been using the Outsunny Resin base with it, which has been a great match.”
midtown
Materials: Aluminum, Sunbrella or Terrylast fabric | Colors: 29, including Heather Tan and Infused Gem | Warranty: 10-year limited on frame and Terrylast fabric, 5-year limited on Sunbrella fabric
Best for: Those looking for a reasonably priced, heavy-duty option with an auto-tilting mechanism.
Looking for a no-frills patio umbrella that’s sturdy and easy to use? Consider Midtown Umbrellas’ The Lean, whose simple auto-tilting feature is highlighted by several reviewers. Its aluminum frame features rectangular “ribs” that help it resist strong winds; the pole, also made from aluminum, is treated to resist rust and inclement weather. Choose from either Sunbrella or Terrylast fabrics, which are both heavy duty and UV resistant, and if you buy more than one canopy, the twistable top makes it easy to interchange them. Plus, you’ll have a plethora of bright, summer-ready colors to choose from.
Sunvilla
Materials: Aluminum, Olefin fabric (Sunbrella is out of stock) | Colors: 11, including Green and Red Olefin | Warranty: 10-year for frame, 2-year for umbrella defects in material and workmanship
Best for: Those looking to add shade to their six- to eight-person outdoor dining sets.
Those in search of much-needed shade for when their family or friends dine al fresco might consider Sunvilla’s rectangular market umbrella. With a canopy measuring 8 by 10 feet that’s made from your choice of low-maintenance, weather-resistant fabrics, it’ll offer ample sun protection for six to eight people. (Note: The Sunbrella options are currently out of stock.) Constructed with an all-aluminum frame and “ribs,” this market umbrella is also equipped with a simple hand crank to raise and lower its canopy.
Room & Board
Materials: Aluminum, Sunbrella fabric, Kevlar mesh lift | Colors: 7, including Watts Navy and Sunbrella Canvas Cement | Warranty: Guaranteed repair or replacement for manufacturing defects
Best for: Those looking for a classic, high-quality option that is made to last a long time.
For a patio umbrella that’ll stand the test of time—or at least according to its makers, who vow to replace or repair it anytime after purchase, should you spot a manufacturing defect—we recommend investing in Room & Board’s Oahu Patio Umbrella. Available in either 9-foot or 11-foot options, the Oahu features a durable powder-coated aluminum pole that’s anchored by a 50-pound base, complete with an extra 30-pound add-on weight. This means that, as several satisfied users point out, it’ll withstand high winds without wobbling. The weather-resistant fabric cleans up easily and helps the canopy hang on to its color. If, however, you wish to bring the Oahu indoors during particularly inclement weather or cooler months, some reviewers report that it’s easy to detach from the base.
Frontgate
Materials: Teak wood, stainless steel | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on fabric and finishes
Best for: Those who appreciate excellent craftsmanship and quality.
Topping the list in Forbes Vetted’s Best Adirondack Chairs roundup, this piece from Frontgate lives up to its luxury price tag. With a high-quality teak frame that’s been pre-weathered for a lived-in look, this timeless chair makes any outdoor space feel more put-together. The kiln-dried wood is naturally resistant to mildew, so it’ll keep its good looks over time.
Article
Materials: Polypropylene, metal | Colors: 9 total, including Aloe Green and Dusty Pink | Warranty: 1-year warranty from delivery date
Best for: Minimalists who like infusing their space with a pop of color.
Made of durable, UV-resistant plastic, this modern dining chair adds a touch of minimalist cool to any patio or balcony. It comes in a wide range of colors such as Aloe Green, Daisy Yellow and Berry Blue, so you can infuse your outdoor space with your favorite hue. While elegant, the thin metal legs aren't the best choice for using directly on a lawn or a deck with thinner slats.
What our editors say: “I've owned these indoor/outdoor chairs from Article for nearly four years, and I still love them as much as when we first bought them,” says executive director Cory Baldwin. “They've held up great on my outdoor patio and look right at home in my dining room when we need extra seating.”
Williams Sonoma
Materials: Teak wood, polypropylene | Colors: Natural finish | Warranty: 1-year warranty from purchase date
Best for: Those who prioritize style in their outdoor furniture.
It’s no surprise that Willams Sonoma’s collection of outdoor furniture is stunning—we particularly like the Pasadena Club Chair. Combining a teak frame with unique rope detailing, the chair exudes relaxed elegance. Cushions are sold separately, and come in eye-pleasing hues such as Sage, Persimmon and Denim Blue.
Breeo
Materials: Poly lumber, stainless steel | Colors: 4 total, including Gray and Antique Mahogany | Warranty: 5-year warranty from purchase date
Best for: Fire pit owners, or those who like to remain upright when relaxing outside.
This hard-wearing piece from Breeo resembles an Adirondack chair, except it doesn’t lean so far back, allowing your whole body to remain closer to your fire pit. Even if you don’t have a roaring bonfire going, this chair is a winner: It’s incredibly durable and won’t crack or splinter over time. You can also outfit it with Breeo’s accessories, which include a cupholder and serving tray.
What our editors say: “I've had the Bree X Series for a couple weeks and it was easy to put together and seems really high quality so far,” says Tietjen. “I also love that it emulates the classic Adirondack chair style, except with a smart fire pit-friendly design. Further, Breeo makes an adorable kid-sized version so the whole family can enjoy relaxing outdoors.”
At Forbes Vetted, we’ve researched and written dozens of shopping guides for our home vertical; this includes our robust catalog of outdoor stories.
To help you find the best patio furniture for your particular outdoor space and aesthetic, our team pored over scores of top-rated options and scanned dozens of user reviews.
There are many kinds of outdoor furniture that are durable and can stand up to the elements, specifically pieces made of teak wood, aluminum and resin wicker. Teak has the highest decay resistance of any natural wood; it’s also resistant to water, UV damage and termite infestations. Meanwhile, aluminum is a great metal option because it’s rust-proof and can withstand hot temperatures. Resin wicker, also known as all-weather wicker, is a synthetic material that’s both affordable and hard-wearing. Keep in mind that you can enhance the weather-resistant qualities of your furniture (and the accompanying cushions) with spray-on protectants. You can also protect your patio furniture from inclement weather using heavy-duty furniture covers.
While high-quality outdoor furniture can cost a good deal of money up front, it’s worth the investment. When you properly care for your patio furniture, it can last for more than a decade; if you’re someone who loves entertaining, dining and relaxing in your outdoor space, the cost per use of your furniture goes down drastically. However, if you find that you only enjoy time on your patio a couple times a year, it may make more sense to stick with a more wallet-friendly option like the Christopher Knight Home Carolina Sofa Set or the Waroom 3-Seat Rattan Sofa. Check out our guide on how to create your ideal outdoor space for more tips.
If you live in a temperate climate, you should be fine leaving your patio furniture out year-round. However, if you live someplace that gets a lot of seasonal rain or snow, you should consider using a fabric cover or bringing your furniture indoors during long periods of inclement weather. That being said, pieces made of teak or aluminum are typically durable enough to stay outside throughout fall and winter, which is something to keep in mind when making your purchase.
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