End Table vs Side Table: Which Accent Table is Right for You?

Est. Reading Time: 8 Mins

When decorating your living room, choosing the right accent tables can make a big difference in how your space looks and functions. While coffee tables often take center stage, end tables and side tables play just as crucial a role in design and practicality.

According to Mary Lee Smyth, an interior designer at La-Z-Boy Kingston, “End tables and side tables may look similar, but they serve different purposes. Knowing how to use them correctly can completely change how your living space feels.”

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between end tables and side tables, how to style them effectively, and which is best suited for your home.

Key Takeaways:

End tables are designed to sit beside sofas or sectionals, providing balance and symmetry.
Side tables are smaller, standalone pieces ideal for accent chairs or small spaces.
End tables often come in pairs, while side tables are sold individually.
The right table depends on your room size, seating arrangement, and design style.
Both are available at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, featuring brands like Hammary, American Drew, and Kincaid.

In This Article...

What is the Difference Between an End Table and a Side Table?
How to Properly Use Each Type of Table
Which Table is Right for You?
End Tables and Side Tables at La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston

What is the Difference Between an End Table and a Side Table?

At first glance, end tables and side tables might appear identical, but their functions, sizes, and placements set them apart.

End tables are designed to sit at either end of a sofa, loveseat, or sectional. They often come in pairs and help “frame” your seating area, creating balance and cohesion. Most end tables measure between 22–30 inches in height, which aligns with standard sofa arm heights. They usually feature more surface space, making them ideal for lamps, decor, or daily-use items like remotes and drinks.

Mary Lee explains, “Think of end tables as the bookends of your living room furniture. They complete the look of your space and make it feel intentional.”

Side tables, on the other hand, are typically smaller and meant to stand alone. They fit well beside accent chairs, recliners, or in corners where space is limited. Their flexible size and design make them a popular choice for apartments or reading nooks. Side tables usually measure 20–24 inches high, fitting comfortably next to low-arm seating.

Feature	End Table	Side Table
Typical Height	22–30 inches	20–24 inches
Placement	Beside sofas or sectionals	Next to chairs or in corners
Sold As	Usually in pairs	Sold individually
Primary Purpose	Function + balance	Accent + versatility
Best For	Medium or large rooms	Compact or small spaces

Mini Summary:
End tables bring structure and balance to a seating area, while side tables offer flexibility for tighter layouts and accent furniture.

How to Properly Use an End Table vs a Side Table

Proper placement can make your room feel both polished and functional.

End tables typically belong at the ends of a sofa or sectional, aligning with arm height for a cohesive visual line. They help anchor the seating arrangement and provide a surface for lighting, books, or decor. When using a pair, ensure they’re evenly spaced and not too close to walls, which can make the area feel cramped.

Side tables are more adaptable. They can fill awkward gaps beside a recliner, serve as nightstands in small bedrooms, or even function as plant stands. Many homeowners use a mix of end and side tables to add dimension to a room.

Mary Lee suggests, “When mixing end and side tables, make sure they share similar finishes or materials so the space feels cohesive. Consistency ties the room together without making it feel overly matched.”

Which Table is Right For You?

Choosing between an end table and a side table depends on your space, furniture, and design goals.

Budget and Space

End tables are usually sold in pairs, so they can cost more upfront. Side tables are typically purchased individually, making them more budget-friendly. If your room is compact, a single side table is often all you need.

Functionality and Style

If you need a larger surface for lighting or decor, opt for an end table. If you value portability or want a stylish accent near a chair, go with a side table. Many side tables now include built-in storage drawers or integrated charging ports, adding versatility to smaller spaces.

Factor	End Table	Side Table
Price Range	Moderate to high (sold in pairs)	Lower (sold individually)
Surface Space	Larger, supports lamps or decor	Smaller, ideal for accessories
Best Fit	Framing sofas, anchoring rooms	Compact areas, single chairs
Design Variety	Traditional, classic, formal	Modern, minimalist, eclectic

When deciding which is best, consider the proportions of your furniture, the available space, and how you use the room day-to-day.

End Tables and Side Tables at: La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston

At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau & Kingston, you’ll find an extensive selection of end tables and side tables to complement every living room layout. Each collection is carefully chosen for quality craftsmanship, timeless style, and versatility.

Our featured brands, including Hammary, American Drew, and Kincaid, offer designs ranging from modern minimalist to classic wood construction. Whether you prefer glass tops, metal frames, or solid wood finishes, each piece is built for both beauty and longevity.

According to Mary Lee, “Many customers appreciate how customizable our tables are. From finish options to hardware details, there’s a piece for every style and space.”

Our Hammary Home Accents line includes sleek, transitional tables that pair beautifully with contemporary décor, while Kincaid Classics feature handcrafted, solid-wood construction perfect for traditional interiors. For those who prefer a balance of elegance and function, American Drew offers refined designs with practical storage solutions.

La-Z-Boy’s design consultants can also help you coordinate your tables with your existing furniture, ensuring a cohesive look throughout your home.

What's Next?

Now that you're equipped with a better understanding of the differences between end tables and side tables, you can make an informed decision about which type of accent table will best suit your living space.

Visit La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston today to view our extensive collection in person, or schedule a visit online. Our sales consultants are always ready to help you find the perfect piece for your home.

Don’t forget to take advantage of our complimentary interior design services to see how our furniture can seamlessly fit into your decor. And, if you’re interested in learning more about our home decor pieces, like our occasional tables, take a look at our comprehensive Home Decor Guide.

To see more of what we have to offer, check out our best-selling collections:

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Nicholas Carchidi

Content Writer at StyleMeetsComfort.ca

Nick has been the lead content writer for La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston since 2022, specializing in the furniture industry. He collaborates with experts in his field, ensuring that each piece on the La-Z-Boy Learning Centre is accurate and valuable. He provides readers with expert knowledge on all things furniture. If you'd like to learn more about Nick, you can check out his LinkedIn page here.