Last Updated: Oct 15, 2021 @ 2:12 pm.

Best Lift-Top Storage: Yaheetech Adjustable Lift Top Coffee Table

Behold, the coffee table!

A fixture of the living room since the invention of the living room, coffee tables seemingly fall into two categories: pretty or functional. Since we focus on products for families, this article focuses more on the functional—coffee tables with storage shelfs, lift-top storage boxes, etc. For those who want something prettier (or modern in design), we’ve got a pick at the end of this article with a glass top and black accents.

For the best lift-top storage coffee table, we first asked our readers for their favorites. With 2.1 million copies of our parenting books in print, we got an earful from folks as to the best coffee tables in this category. We took those suggestions and narrowed it down to a series of finalists, based on storage capacity, easy of assembly and overall value.

When the dust settled, we decided Yaheetech’s Adjustable Lift Top Coffee Table is the best of the bunch. Here’s why:

What We Liked

• Sturdy! This coffee table is made of medium density fiberboard . . . more substantial than others we considered.

• Storage capacity is 40 lbs. Yep, that’s a lot of remote controls, toys, coffee table books and more.

• Affordable.

What Needs Work

• Assembly instructions could be easier to follow.

• Small overall dimensions—this coffee table is 38.6″ x 19.7″ x 16.5″. That’s great for a small apartment or condo. but it might be disappointing if you are trying to find something that fits in front of a full-size couch.

Best With Shelf: VASAGLE Industrial Coffee Table with Storage Shelf

This coffee table is simple but effective—a dash of industrial design chic and distressed faux wood top (it’s actually laminate, not wood!). We love distressed coffee table tops . . . perfect for toddlers and kids, since it comes pre-scuffed! Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to assemble. There’s even an Allen wrench included!

• Metal frame = durable.

• Sturdy metal shelf.

• Simple design.

• Affordable.

What Needs Work

• Sharp corners may have to be baby-proofed. 

Best Round Coffee Table: Household Essentials Grey Top Round Coffee Table

Sometimes, simple is best. If the budget is tight, a basic round table with metal base is both practical and affordable. Practical because it is sturdy and can take abuse. And easy on the wallet.

After considering a half dozen different round coffee tables, we pick Household Essentials’s Grey Top Round Coffee Table as the best bet. Here’s why:

What We Liked

• Quick, easy assembly.

• Sturdy frame can hold 100 lbs. That’s a lot of remote controls!

• Affordable. “Cheap and cute” is a good way to describe this coffee table!

• Grey wood tones are on style point.

What Needs Work

• Water can damage the tabletop. 

Best Modern Coffee Table: Best Choice Products Wooden Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table

Mid-century modern is a popular trend for coffee tables these days—we researched five options that fit that style and came away thinking that Best Choice has the winner here. Good quality, at a price that doesn’t break the bank.

What We Liked

• Nicely sized for most living rooms.

• Storage space is larger than it looks.

• Affordable.

• Easy to assemble.

What Needs Work

• Water can damage the finish.  Be sure to use coasters and clean up any spills quickly!

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We survey our readers (2.1 million strong!) to find their best bets for items like coffee tables and then do additional research to find the best quality, durability and affordability.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported! We thank you for reading this article.