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A bench outdoors can make a beautiful garden look even more picturesque. Outdoor benches evoke a feeling of relaxation and calm, bringing up images of balmy days, birds singing, and fragrant flowers. The right outdoor bench can elevate your garden or patio and add cozy seating at the same time.
Whether purely for decoration or to create a spot to enjoy some quiet time outside, a good outdoor bench is beautiful and durable. Here are some of the best outdoor benches to bring beauty and function to any garden or backyard.
- BEST OVERALL: Lifetime Outdoor Convertible Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Best Choice Products Outdoor Steel Garden Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WOOD: Walker Edison Vincent Patio Wood Loveseat Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST METAL: Patio Sense Cast Aluminum Patio Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PLASTIC: Polywood Vineyard Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WITH STORAGE: Keter Solana 70-Gallon Outdoor Storage Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR DINING: Gracie Oaks Eules Wood Outdoor Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST GLIDER: Outsunny 2-Person Outdoor Glider Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WITH TABLE: Andover Mills Wilhelmina Fir Outdoor Bench
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SWING: Vingli Patio Wooden Porch Swing
↓ Jump to Review - ALSO CONSIDER: Gracie Oaks Fallah Planter and Bench
↓ Jump to Review
Photo: amazon
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Benches
Two of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a good outdoor bench are style and function. Since everyone has different needs and preferences, we chose the best outdoor benches from a range of bench types, materials, and sizes, including everything from classic metal garden benches to wooden picnic table seats. (However, we did exclude concrete and natural stone benches from this list; based on our research, they were not as popular as other types of benches.)
Also, to ensure a high level of quality, our top picks came from reputable outdoor furniture brands and retailers, including brands like Polywood, Plow & Hearth, and Wayfair. To that end, there’s a bench on our list to suit almost any use, whether decorative or functional.
Within each category, we kept a few important criteria in mind. First, the outdoor benches on our list are durable, made of materials designed to weather the outdoors. That said, shoppers should keep in mind, of course, that no material is entirely weatherproof, so even the best benches require some care to ensure that they last.
In addition to outdoor-friendly materials, we also prioritized comfort, choosing some benches with backrests, curved armrests, and restful-looking seats. Then, because style is ultimately subjective, the picks on our list include a range of styles that can look great in a variety of gardens. Lastly, some benches earned a spot on our list for their excellent extra features, like convertible designs or built-in storage.
Our Top Picks
These stunning benches provide comfortable seating to make any outdoor space inviting. Each of the top picks below was selected for its materials, ease of maintenance, and durability.
Best Overall
Lifetime Outdoor Convertible Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Alloy steel and polystyrene
- Dimensions: 55.5 inches long by 14.3 inches wide (seat) by 34.9 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 750 pounds
What We Like
- Convertible design can transform from a bench into a table with a seat
- Easy to convert; simply push the lever and move the backrest into a tabletop position
- Made with sturdy alloy steel and polystyrene; weather-resistant
- Very low maintenance compared to other options currently on the market
What We Don’t Like
- Very basic look compared to some options; may not be ideal for some users’ tastes
A convertible design makes the Lifetime convertible bench a versatile choice for outdoor seating. This adaptable bench features a convertible backrest that folds down to a table with the simple pull of a lever—converting it back and forth is easy enough for one person to handle. Want even more seating options? Two of these benches pushed together can create a full-size picnic table.
This modern outdoor bench has a wood-grain look, made of weather-resistant polystyrene, which gives the appearance of wood without the necessary upkeep that comes with real wood. The bench and tabletop are mounted on a durable and powder-coated steel frame. The large size and robust materials give this bench a 750-pound weight limit, offering enough seating for two or three people.
While this deck or patio bench is less ornate than some options, it’s still a handsome-looking choice. Its simple design and neutral colors can blend right in with a pretty garden backdrop or an existing patio set.
Get the Lifetime outdoor bench at Amazon, Wayfair, or Lifetime.
Best Bang For The Buck
Best Choice Products Outdoor Steel Garden Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 39 inches long by 21.25 inches wide by 31 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Budget-friendly cost compared to other outdoor benches on the market
- Ornate design is suitable for patios, porches, gardens, and other outdoor spaces
- Durable steel construction is weather-resistant for extended long-term use
- Comes in 3 different color options to suit a given outdoor space
What We Don’t Like
- Low weight capacity compared to other comparable models
With a budget-friendly price and a pretty, decorative design, the Best Choice Products steel garden bench is an excellent pick for almost any garden. This classic traditional metal garden bench is made of lightweight but durable alloy steel. True to traditional metal benches, it features an ornate scroll pattern and floral filigree design that adds charm to any garden or deck.
While Best Choice Products advertises this as a three-person bench, its smaller size and 300-pound weight limit will likely work for only one or two people. The compact footprint and delicate design make this bench a lovely choice for a cozy garden nook.
Get the Best Choice Products outdoor steel garden bench at Amazon or Best Choice Products.
Best Wood
Walker Edison Vincent Patio Wood Loveseat Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Acacia wood
- Dimensions: 48 inches long by 25 inches wide by 35 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
What We Like
- Solid acacia build is beautiful; available in multiple finishes to match other wood fixtures
- Suitable for use on a patio, deck, porch, garden, or other outdoor space
- Contemporary style is contoured and ergonomic
What We Don’t Like
- Can be difficult to assemble; may take more than 1 pair of hands
- Lightweight at 33 pounds; may not have the best wind resistance
- Requires teak oil every few months to maintain the wood’s vibrance
Made of hardy acacia wood, the Walker Edison Vincent loveseat bench is the perfect pick for those who like the rustic appeal of a wooden bench. This bench has it all: It’s durable, comfortable, and beautiful.
The solid acacia wood build makes it a weather-resistant pick. Simple lines and a chevron-patterned backrest also make it a stylish choice for contemporary yards. Plus, this bench comes in a few finish options to suit different styles. A 400-pound weight capacity means this loveseat bench is intended to seat two.
This welcoming deck or patio bench features comfortable, contoured seats that are slatted to prevent water pooling. Maintenance is also fairly easy with this outside bench; Walker Edison recommends applying teak oil every couple of months to keep the wood vibrant.
Get the Walker Edison outdoor bench at Amazon or Walker Edison.
Best Metal
Patio Sense Cast Aluminum Patio Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Cast aluminum
- Dimensions: 40 inches long by 17 inches wide by 34 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
What We Like
- Antique bronze finish and design is suitable for use in many outdoor spaces
- Sturdy and lightweight; easy to assemble and move if desired
- Cast aluminum requires very little maintenance to remain beautiful
What We Don’t Like
- Relatively small outdoor bench; may not hold more than 2 people comfortably
Metal outdoor benches are a long-lasting and low-maintenance choice. Made from weather-resistant cast aluminum, the Patio Sense bench is virtually maintenance-free apart from the occasional cleaning. Though sturdy, the cast aluminum makes this bench relatively lightweight so it’s easy to move around. The sturdiness of cast aluminum is also hard to beat, and this two-seater bench has a high weight capacity of 400 pounds.
Besides its durability, this metal outdoor bench is also a pretty pick. A crisscross back and seat design, armrests with scroll details, and an antique bronze finish give this bench a traditional rustic look. The simple but classic design can suit pretty much any garden or patio and requires little to no maintenance; it’ll look great year after year.
Get the Patio Sense outdoor bench at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Plastic
Polywood Vineyard Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Polywood
- Dimensions: 60.5 inches long by 24 inches wide by 35.25 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
What We Like
- Very durable compared to other options on the market; made with polywood plastic
- Comes in 7 color options to suit multiple users’ current outdoor spaces
- Low maintenance compared to some models available; requires no staining, waterproofing, or painting
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive compared to some bench alternatives
With a faux wood appearance, the Polywood Vineyard bench offers an elevated look compared to typical plastic benches. This weather-resistant bench is constructed from genuine Polywood lumber, a faux lumber made from a proprietary blend of sustainable materials that includes recycled plastics.
Since this “wood” is made of plastic, it avoids many of the pitfalls of real wood. It won’t rot, crack, or splinter, and it hardly needs any maintenance—just the occasional cleaning with soapy water and a soft brush. Because each of its seven colors are continuous throughout the material and it’s finished with a ultraviolet (UV) protectant, this durable bench is resistant to fading and also won’t chip or peel.
Aside from its durability, this bench is also an attractive pick. It has a simple design and comes in a few different finishes to match existing outdoor decor.
Get the Polywood outdoor bench at Amazon, Wayfair, or Polywood.
Best With Storage
Keter Solana 70-Gallon Outdoor Storage Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Polypropylene resin
- Dimensions: 55.1 inches long by 23.6 inches wide by 33 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 551 pounds
What We Like
- Easy-to-maintain resin material is all-weather resistant, does not fade, and is easy to clean
- The appealing faux-wood finish has all of the style of real wood with better durability
- The large lockable storage compartment can hold sports equipment, gardening tools, and more
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic resin material feels thin; may not be ideal for some users’ needs
- The storage compartment is not bug- or critter-proof
Need a spot to store outdoor goodies? The Keter Solana 70-gallon outdoor storage bench features a roomy storage compartment, perfect for adding extra hidden storage to a patio or garden. It also comes in two different color options.
This bench is made of long-wearing polypropylene resin, finished with a wood-look texture. It comfortably seats two or three people with its large seat and has a 551-pound weight limit. Flipping up the seat reveals 70 gallons of hidden storage, and since this bench is weatherproof, it’s a great place to store some patio cushions and blankets or smaller garden tools and accessories. Users who want to add an extra layer of security can lock the storage compartment with a standard padlock (sold separately).
Get the Keter outdoor bench at Amazon, The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Keter.
Best For Dining
Gracie Oaks Eules Wood Outdoor Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Acacia wood and iron
- Dimensions: 63 inches long by 14.75 inches wide by 17.5 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 600 pounds
What We Like
- Very sturdy iron and acacia wood construction offers a rustic, industrial look
- Easy to assemble; simply attach the wood top to the metal base
- Simple design is ideal for dining tables, mudrooms, patios, and porches
What We Don’t Like
- Some users have noticed color fading from the sun over time
A sturdy and stylish outdoor bench pairs beautifully with an outdoor dining table. The Gracie Oaks Eules wood outdoor bench can help create an elevated picnic area, well suited for both adults and kids.
This sturdy bench is made of solid acacia wood that rests on top of an iron frame. A natural-toned stain gives this bench a slightly rustic look. The clean design features straight lines and a sawhorse-style base that gives the bench a modern, industrial silhouette.
This bench seats two and has a weight capacity of 600 pounds. It’s a great choice paired with an outdoor dining table or placed on its own as a front porch bench or on a patio, in a mudroom, or in a garden.
Get the Gracie Oaks outdoor bench at Wayfair.
Best Glider
Outsunny 2-Person Outdoor Glider Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Steel and mesh fabric
- Dimensions: 47.25 inches long by 27.5 inches wide by 33.5 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 440 pounds
What We Like
- Smooth gliding mechanism allows piece to rock easily back and forth when in use
- Breathable and quick-drying mesh seat and back repel water and withstand inclement weather
- Comfortable mesh fabric cradles the body and provides excellent back and leg support
What We Don’t Like
- Steel frame and armrests get hot when in direct sunlight
Lounging on garden benches is even more relaxing with the Outsunny 2-Person Outdoor Glider Bench. This rocking love-seat bench features a smooth gliding mechanism that mimics the gentle back-and-forth of a rocking chair. Since this bench doesn’t have a rocker, it’s safe to place on the patio or in the garden.
Combining both durability and comfort, this glider deck or patio bench features a stable and rust-resistant steel frame. The backrest and seat are made of a mesh fabric that is breathable and quick to dry, plus it cradles the body. With a 440-pound weight capacity and enough room for two, this bench makes sitting outside with a partner even more enjoyable.
Get the Outsunny outdoor bench at Amazon or Aosom.
Best With Table
Andover Mills Wilhelmina Fir Outdoor Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Solid wood
- Dimensions: 59.75 inches long by 27.5 inches wide by 31 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 550 pounds
What We Like
- 2 seats and a table in the middle for cards, board games, or beverages
- Made with quality weathered steel and UV- and water-resistant solid fir wood
- Comes with a predrilled hole in the table for placing an umbrella if desired
What We Don’t Like
- Limited color options compared to other products on the market
- Some users have reported durability issues
Having a table attached to an outdoor bench provides the perfect opportunity for card games, reading, or lounging, and we love this bench-and-table combo from Andover Mills. Though this is not traditional in terms of style, this bench comes with two seats with a table placed in the middle. The table also has a built-in hole for an umbrella if sun exposure is an issue.
This bench is made from weathered steel and solid fir wood that is UV- and water-resistant. It’s available in two color options: orange and natural. Though it does take some assembly, this unique bench and chair are made for long-term use on patios, porches, and in gardens.
Get the Andover Mills outdoor bench at Wayfair.
Best Swing
Vingli Patio Wooden Porch Swing
Product Specs
- Material: Wood
- Dimensions: 60.6 inches long by 15.4 inches wide by 15 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 800 pounds
What We Like
- Made of high-quality cedarwood with a polyurethane coating; withstands UV rays and inclement weather
- High weight capacity of over 800 pounds and 5-foot length accommodate up to 3 users
- Comes in several color options to suit a variety of users’ current fixtures
- Ergonomic curved design adds support to the user’s back and legs
What We Don’t Like
- Some users reported that the paint on the swing peeled or faded with time
While some loungers may prefer to sit still with their feet firmly planted on the ground, others may find a slow rocking motion more comforting. For those buyers, we recommend the Vingli patio wooden porch swing. This cedarwood bench features a classic design. It has a high weight capacity of over 800 pounds thanks to adjustable chains that are loop locked to both the frame and the dense wood slats. It also has an ergonomic design with a curved knee area for comfort and support.
A waterproof polyurethane coating offers sun and weather resistance. This outdoor wooden bench can be installed on porches or trees or attached to swing stands, adding to its versatility.
Get the Vingli outdoor bench at Amazon or Vingli.
Also Consider
Gracie Oaks Fallah Planter and Bench
Product Specs
- Material: Solid meranti hardwood
- Dimensions: 72.1 inches long by 15.8 inches wide by 17.9 inches tall
- Weight capacity: Unlisted
What We Like
- Comes with a bench seat and 2 planters for trees, flowers, and shrubs
- Made with solid meranti hardwood for long-term durability in all-season weather
- Tool-free assembly; one of the easiest models on this list to assemble
What We Don’t Like
- Comes in limited color options compared to some other benches
- Pots or planters may be required for plants to grow; the planters do not have bottoms
- No weight capacity is listed on the brand’s website
While this option may be unorthodox, plant lovers can rejoice. Sit among growing ivy, trees, or flowers with this Gracie Oaks Fallah planter. It’s a bench with two large planters on either side for a unique lounging experience. Made with solid brown- or natural-toned meranti hardwood and weathered steel, this bench delivers peak durability in all-season weather conditions.
This bench is also one of the easiest products to assemble and does not require any tools; simply place the bench over the planters and sit. Plus, it comes with a smaller price point than many other benches on the market. The only downside some users may not love is that the planters have an open bottom.
Get the Gracie Oaks outdoor bench at Wayfair.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Bench
Outdoor benches and patio chairs are intended to be both decorative and functional. Along with looking pretty, they should also suit your space and needs. When making outdoor bench plans for patios or decks, consider the bench material, size, weight capacity, style, comfort level, and any additional features.
Material
Most outdoor benches are made of metal, wood, or plastic, but stone and concrete benches are available as well. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks:
- Metal: Common outdoor metal benches are made with wrought iron, aluminum, or steel, often with a powder-coated layer or other weather-resistant finish to protect from corrosion and rust. Metal is low maintenance, durable, and comes in beautifully detailed designs—picture benches with classic scroll-back seats. But metal outdoor benches aren’t very comfortable, so they’re usually chosen for their decorative features.
- Wood: Wood outdoor benches are a classic and comfortable choice. Besides looking beautiful, wood benches are generally more pleasant to sit on. To make sure the bench can brave the great outdoors, it’s important to choose one of the best wood types for outdoor furniture. Hardwoods, acacia, eucalyptus, cedar, and teak are hardy and attractive options. Wood benches will need occasional maintenance, which can include sanding, finishing, and sealing, to keep up their look and weather-resistant capabilities.
- Plastic: Plastic is incredibly versatile and low maintenance. Various types of plastic are used to make outdoor benches, including synthetic resins and recycled plastics, and these benches come in all shapes, patterns, and colors. Plastic is waterproof, so it naturally resists rot, rust, mold, or mildew. It’s also easy to clean, making it the lowest-maintenance choice. Just make sure to opt for a high-quality plastic bench from a reputable brand—the cheap stuff can fade or become brittle in the sun and cold.
- Solid stone/concrete: Built to last quite a long time, stone and concrete benches lend a timeless look to any landscape. While these types of benches are often heavy, making them hard to move, there are lightweight concrete options that offer the same classic look without cumbersome weight of more traditional materials.
Size and Weight Capacity
When choosing a bench size, consider the intended space and use. The size of the bench should accentuate the look of the garden; it should nestle nicely into the outdoor space without overwhelming the scenery around it. For solo contemplation, a small bench may be the perfect fit. For chatting with friends, look for a bench that will fit two or more people, or about 48 inches to 60 inches long.
Most outdoor benches have a weight capacity of 300 pounds or more to hold the weight of a couple of adults. It still doesn’t hurt to double-check the weight capacity for larger users or to seat more people. A higher weight capacity also signals a sturdier bench, which means it will be more likely to maintain its structural integrity after years of use.
Style and Comfort
Like other outdoor furniture, outdoor benches come in an array of styles made to suit almost any decor. With so many options to choose from, it’s worth searching for an outdoor bench that suits your personal style, whether that’s modern, rustic, or traditional.
If the bench will be used often, comfort is just as important as style. Armrests and backrests are nice comfort features to have for extended-use activities such as reading, eating, or chatting with friends. For those who want a purely decorative bench or one with a cleaner look, a bench without an armrest or backrest can be a good pick as well.
Outdoor benches generally come in solid or slatted versions, each of which has pros and cons. Solid benches can be more comfortable to sit on, but they can hold water after it rains, which can affect the bench’s long-term durability. Slatted benches, on the other hand, won’t hold pooled water, but their slats can feel uncomfortable after long periods of sitting.
Maintenance
All the best patio furniture on the market is made with wood, metal, and plastic materials that are durable enough to withstand the elements. However, they do require some maintenance to provide the long-lasting durability most users look for.
Live wood benches will need to be cleaned with an oil-based soap and a brush or cloth to avoid any potential fading while adding nourishment. You might also consider using one of the best outdoor wood sealers on the market to keep wood from being affected by the elements.
Plastic, metal, and painted wood benches will need to be cleaned with a mild dishwashing detergent and a cloth. In winter, consider using an outdoor furniture cover or tarp to protect the bench from any chipping, abrasions, or dirt and debris.
Additional Features
Outdoor benches can include additional comfort and convenience features to add even more value. If the outdoor bench will be frequently used, consider extra comfort features, such as removable outdoor cushions. Swinging benches or gliders that create a gentle rocking motion are also great options to inspire even more relaxation.
Function is often as important as comfort, especially for those who need some extra storage. Fortunately, many outdoor benches, in addition to providing a great place to sit, offer much-needed storage space as well. These chunkier benches, usually made of plastic, have a lift-up seat that reveals a weatherproof storage compartment inside.
For even more functionality, convertible benches convert from a plain bench to a bench with a tabletop. This feature can take the form of a convertible backrest or a small section of the seat that pops up to create a small table. These benches are perfect for those who also want to use the bench as a small dining area.
FAQs
Outdoor benches are a versatile choice for adding beautiful and practical outdoor seating. The right outdoor bench can turn an outdoor dining table into a picnic area or help create a lovely garden oasis. With tons of choices available, from budget-friendly to high-end, choosing the perfect seat can feel overwhelming. Read on for a few frequently asked questions and their answers to help narrow down the best outdoor benches for your space.
Acacia, eucalyptus, cedar, and teak are all excellent options. Teak is a favorite for outdoor furniture for many shoppers because it can last a lifetime with the right care.
Many outdoor benches that are waterproof are constructed with plastic or metal. Wood, however, is often harder to waterproof. Massaging some teak oil into the wood can help to repel water; applying a waterproof wood sealer can be effective as well. Outdoor furniture covers are also a way of making sure that furniture is protected from moisture.
An outdoor bench should ideally be 15 to 20 inches deep to offer sitters short- and long-term comfort. Many benches with this depth are capable of holding two to three people comfortably.
Just about anywhere! There are a few factors to keep in mind to create inviting and comfortable seating. Consider the view from the bench and also the conditions in the intended spot. Make sure the spot is suitable underfoot, so the bench is easily accessible and rests in place without rocking. Also, consider what’s overhead: A shaded or covered area can provide a bit of respite from the sun or rain.
It depends on the bench and the weather conditions in the area. Most outdoor benches will last at least 5 years, with many high-quality choices lasting upward of 10 years with proper care.
As with benches made of wood, plastic, or other materials, concrete and stone benches come in a variety of styles and are made for a variety of budgets. For a traditional look that won’t break the bank, however, we like the Athens Stonecasting Genteel Estate Bench.