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Lift-top coffee tables provide a multitude of uses in one piece of furniture. Not only do these coffee tables serve as a surface for holding drinks, remotes, and books, but their lift-top designs also double as a work surface or dining table with room for some hidden storage. Much like the best coffee table options, the best lift-top coffee tables are both beautiful and functional. Ahead, see the best lift-top coffee tables options, all offering a stylish and practical addition to any living room or office.
- BEST OVERALL: Tangkula Modern Lift Coffee Table
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Homcom 39″ Modern Lift Top Coffee Table
- UPGRADE PICK: West Elm Industrial Storage Pop-Up Coffee Table
- BEST MODERN: Wrought Studio Kitzmiller Lift Top Coffee Table
- BEST MIDCENTURY: WLIVE Wood Lift Top Coffee Table
- BEST RUSTIC: Rolanstar Lift Top Coffee Table with Storage Shelves
- BEST FARMHOUSE: Ashley Furniture Bolanburg Coffee Table
- BEST TWO-WAY: Lark Manor Dee Lift Top Floor Shelf Coffee Table
- BEST ROUND: Sand & Stable Nobles Lift Top Coffee Table with Storage
- ALSO CONSIDER: Best Choice Products Lift Top Coffee Table
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Lift-Top Coffee Tables
Coffee tables are a must-have in most living rooms, and a lift top adds even more function to this essential furniture piece. Style is important to consider when choosing the best storage coffee table, but there are several other features to think about as well. When shopping for the best lift-top coffee table for your home, consider its size and shape, material, opening mechanism, and hinge quality.
Size and Shape
Size and shape are two of the first aspects to consider when choosing a lift-top coffee table. Consider both the size and shape of the room as well as your intended use.
Rectangular lift-top coffee tables are most common, but square, round, and triangular options are also available. Lift-top tables come in a variety of sizes, and as is the case with most coffee tables, shoppers will want to find a pick that is large enough to be useful but doesn’t take up too much space in the room. Take extended dimensions into account as well, ensuring that the table won’t block the way when the top is extended.
If the lift-top coffee table will be used for work or dining, also consider the tabletop size and shape. Rectangular tabletops are most like a desktop or dining table, and larger options provide more room to spread out while working or for a couple of people to dine. The desk size and design can also affect how much storage space is available, so those looking for the best coffee tables with storage should look for a roomier table.
Material
Lift-top coffee tables are made in a range of materials, including solid and engineered wood, metal, and glass. One factor to keep in mind is that the tabletop needs to be light enough for the opening mechanism to open and support it. For this reason, most lift-top coffee table tabletops are made from lighter engineered woods, although some other options are available.
Many budget-friendly tables are made completely out of lightweight engineered materials like particleboard, MDF (medium density fiberboard), or plywood. Solid wood options are also available for those looking for a more durable and elegant table; however, some may have an engineered-wood tabletop. Glass and metal tabletops are less common because of their weight but are sometimes used as an accent feature.
Opening Mechanism
Lift-top coffee tables can use hydraulic, pneumatic, or spring systems to operate their opening mechanism. Regardless of the opening mechanism type, look for a hard-wearing and smooth-operating opening system. Also, consider how the table opens and if it will work for your space.
Lift-top coffee tables can open straight up, sideways, or on a swivel. Some of the best storage coffee tables open straight up with hinges that move the tabletop a few inches up (and sometimes slightly out) from the base so users can access the storage space beneath. Most lift- top coffee tables that double as a desk or dining table lift up and out, which allows users to slide a chair under and take advantage of the table when it’s extended. A swivel tabletop swivels open, which can offer a more modern look.
Hinge Quality
The hinge is an integral part of the lift-top coffee table, so it’s important to find a table that uses a high-quality option. Sturdy metal hinges, like those made of heavy-gauge corrosion-resistant and rust-resistant steel, are best. They’ll perform better over time and have less chance of becoming warped, rusted, or sticky.
Shoppers should consider buying from reputable companies and checking consumer reviews to find tables with quality hinges. The hinge should open smoothly and hold the tabletop securely in place when fully extended. Hinge quality can also affect the weight capacity of the tabletop, which is another useful specification to check for those who plan to place a lot of items on the extended table.
Our Top Picks
The best lift-top coffee tables on this list are well made, attractive, and practical to serve as a useful centerpiece to any room they’re placed in.
Best Overall
Tangkula Modern Lift Coffee Table
With a simple but contemporary design, durable build, and affordable price, the Tangkula Modern Lift Coffee Table is the best lift-top coffee table for many homes. Made from solid wood and particleboard, this coffee table has a minimal look that should suit most homes. It features a spacious 41-inch by 19.5-inch tabletop, which is ideal for working and dining.
When it’s time to extend the lift top, the entire table top lifts using a smooth-operating metal gas strut system, extending the table to a height of 24.5 inches. The tabletop also extends out from its base, revealing a roomy storage space and allowing users to slide a chair under the tabletop. This coffee table also includes a divided lower storage section, ideal for putting items on display or storing small odds and ends like remotes and books.
Product Specs
- Material: Solid wood and particleboard
- Closed dimensions: 41 long by 19.5 inches wide by 19 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 41 inches by 19.5 inches
Pros
- Contemporary look
- Sturdy construction
- Affordable
- Smooth hinges
Cons
- Not the easiest to assemble
Get the Tangkula lift-top coffee table on Amazon or at Tangkula.
Best Bang For The Buck
Homcom 39" Modern Lift Top Coffee Table
The Homcom Modern Lift Top Coffee Table is another contemporary lift-top coffee table with a budget-friendly price tag. It’s a plain table with clean lines and a neutral wood-grain color, allowing it to fit into most spaces.
This coffee table is very affordable without skimping on quality. Like many other affordable coffee tables, it’s made out of lightweight particleboard with sturdy steel fasteners. A spring-actuated opening mechanism extends the tabletop up to a height of 26.75 inches and out from the base to create a floating work surface. This coffee table also has a small hidden storage compartment under the tabletop, which is ideal for storing small items.
Product Specs
- Material: Particleboard
- Closed dimensions: 38.5 inches long by 19 inches wide by 17.75 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 38.5 inches by 19 inches
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Neutral design and colorways
- Realistic wood-grain pattern
Cons
- Relatively small storage capacity
Get the Homcom lift-top coffee table at Amazon, Overstock, or Aosom.
Upgrade Pick
West Elm Industrial Storage Pop-Up Coffee Table
While many lift-top coffee tables are made using engineered woods, solid-wood options are also available. For those who want to upgrade to a solid-wood coffee table, consider the West Elm Industrial Storage Pop-Up Coffee Table. This gorgeous lift-top coffee table is crafted from sustainably sourced mango wood and comes in several finishes. Blackened steel legs give this coffee table an industrial edge on top of its sleek and modern design.
This coffee table is available in two sizes to suit different needs. Both options feature a smooth-opening extending mechanism. This mechanism lifts the extending half of the tabletop up to 25 inches high and slightly away from its base, exposing the storage space within.
Product Specs
- Material: Solid mango wood and steel
- Closed dimensions: 36 inches long by 26 inches deep by 17.75 inches high, or 50 inches long by 26 inches deep by 17.75 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 36 inches long by 26 inches deep
Pros
- Solid mango wood body
- Industrial-modern design
- Durable and long wearing
Cons
- Smaller work area since only half of the tabletop extends
Get the West Elm lift-top coffee table at West Elm.
Best Modern
Wrought Studio Kitzmiller Lift Top Coffee Table
Twisted and splayed legs give the Wrought Studio Kitzmiller Lift Top Coffee Table a modern look over other popular contemporary designs, and its polished chrome finish adds a bit of edge to this minimalist table. The rest of this table is made from MDF board with a realistic wood-grain laminate finish. Several neutral colorways allow shoppers to choose the best option for any living room or office.
Like many other lift-top coffee tables, the entire tabletop lifts from its base to a 25.5-inch height with a smooth opening mechanism. One perk that sets this table apart is that the tabletop can lock in three positions rather than only one. This allows users to adjust the tabletop for different uses, from partially extended to reach the inner storage zone to fully extended to use as a desk or dining table.
Product Specs
- Material: MDF
- Closed dimensions: 39.5 long by 19.5 deep by 16 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 39.5 inches long by 19.5 inches deep
Pros
- 3 extended positions
- Modern design
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Pricey
Get the Wrought Studio lift-top coffee table at Wayfair.
Best Midcentury
WLIVE Wood Lift Top Coffee Table
With splayed dowel legs and a natural finish, the WLIVE Wood Lift Top Coffee Table captures a midcentury modern essence. This lift-top coffee table has a slightly retro-inspired design brought into the contemporary era with its minimalist lines.
Besides its aesthetic draw, this table also offers excellent function with a decent amount of storage space. It’s made from MDF and features a sturdy piston-style opening mechanism. Although its entire tabletop doesn’t lift up, the section that does is still substantial enough to use as an office work space or dining table. The lift-top section opens up to a 23.7-inch tabletop height, revealing a hidden storage compartment, while the other section of the table features a shelf section to store or display items.
Product Specs
- Material: MDF
- Closed dimensions: 39.4 inches long by 19.7 inches deep by 17.4 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 26 inches long by 19.7 inches deep
Pros
- Decent storage capacity
- Stylish design
- Removable shelving
Cons
- Legs can be difficult to attach
Get the WLIVE lift-top coffee table on Amazon.
Best Rustic
Rolanstar Lift Top Coffee Table with Storage Shelves
A wood-grain finish and steel legs give this lift-top coffee table from Rolanstar a rustic feel. It’s made from MDF with a metal frame, balancing durability and affordability. A waterproof melamine veneer gives this table its wood-like finish to keep it protected from daily use. Ideal for rustic or industrial rooms, this table includes two storage shelving sections complete with two included woven rattan baskets to store small items in style.
Using a quiet spring-hinge system, the entire tabletop lifts up to a 23.8-inch height to reveal more storage under the tabletop. Made for working or eating in the living room, this tabletop lifts up and slightly out so it can be used more comfortably when sitting on the couch.
Product Specs
- Material: MDF and metal
- Closed dimensions: 41.7 inches long by 19.7 inches deep by 18.6 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 41.7 inches long by 19.7 inches deep
Pros
- Sturdy metal frame
- Waterproof melamine finish
- Includes storage bins
Cons
- Some users may find the extended tabletop too low
Get the Rolanstar lift-top coffee table on Amazon or at Rolanstar.
Best Farmhouse
Ashley Furniture Bolanburg Coffee Table
With a stately appearance, the Ashley Furniture Bolanburg Coffee Table is the best wood coffee table for farmhouse homes. This wooden table has a quaint two-toned design complete with a distressed finish that makes it ideal for charming farmhouse-styled rooms.
Unlike a lot of sleek, modern furniture, which sometimes trades function for a more minimalist design, this coffee table is not afraid of its bulkier but practical frame. Its traditional design makes room for four smooth-gliding drawers as well as a small hidden storage section under the lift-top tabletop. This design keeps items out of sight so you don’t need to curate any open shelving.
A spring lift-top mechanism lifts the full tabletop up to a 28.75-inch height. The entire table sits on four casters, which allow for easy mobility.
Product Specs
- Material: Solid and engineered wood
- Closed dimensions: 46 inches long by 26 inches deep by 19.5 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 46 inches long by 26 inches deep
Pros
- Charming 2-tone finish
- 4 storage drawers
- Rolling casters for easy mobility
Cons
- Extended height may be too tall for some couches
Get the Ashley Furniture lift-top coffee table at Amazon, Target, or Ashley Furniture.
Best Two-Way
Lark Manor Dee Lift Top Floor Shelf Coffee Table
Instead of one lift-top section, this table has two. The design is ideal for when two people want to use the table without rubbing elbows. The Lark Manor Dee Lift Top Floor Shelf Coffee Table has two lift-top sections on different sides of the table so a couple of people can use the table while keeping their personal bubble. Both lift-top sections extend to a 24-inch height, which is ideal for use from most couches.
Although this design makes each lift-top section smaller, this coffee table isn’t lacking in storage. Each lift-top section has a storage compartment, plus the table has an extra storage shelf and open shelving along its lower section.
Product Specs
- Material: MDF
- Closed dimensions: 48 inches long by 28 inches deep by 18 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: Unknown
Pros
- 2 lift-top sections
- Ample storage space
- Ideal for use with an L-shaped sofa
Cons
- Small hidden storage capacity
Get the Lark Manor lift-top coffee table at Wayfair.
Best Round
Sand & Stable Nobles Lift Top Coffee Table with Stora
A round coffee table can be an eye-catching addition to a living room. Inspired by tropical destinations like Fiji and Bermuda, the Sand & Stable Nobles Lift Top Coffee Table with Storage features a beachy design. The legs and tabletop are crafted from solid wood, which is both durable and beautiful. The rounded base has a woven wicker design that gives this table a beachy aesthetic, while four slanted feet add a modern feel.
The entire circular wood tabletop lifts up to reveal a large interior storage space, making this table the best coffee table with storage on this list. The bin-like storage space provides plenty of room for blankets, remotes, and books.
Product Specs
- Material: Solid wood
- Closed dimensions: 33 inches around by 15.75 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: Unknown
Pros
- Attractive wicker design
- Solid wood parts
- Spacious interior storage
Cons
- Round tabletop may be less comfortable for work use
Get the Sand & Stable lift-top coffee table at Wayfair.
Also Consider
Best Choice Products Lift Top Coffee Table
The Best Choice Products Lift Top Coffee Table is a simply designed and affordable coffee table made to withstand everyday use. With a smooth glossy finish and a contemporary design, it’s ideal for living rooms, offices, and dorm rooms. This coffee table is made from sturdy particleboard and has a laminated water-resistant finish. Its moving parts are made of durable steel to ensure it keeps up to daily needs.
The entire tabletop lifts up and out to create a 24.5-inch-high floating desktop, ideal for working or eating on. With three open storage cubbies and a hidden compartment, this lift-top coffee table offers a decent amount of storage space. The cubbies can be used to display items like knickknacks, books, and candles, or users can add baskets to create more hidden storage space.
Product Specs
- Material: Particleboard
- Closed dimensions: 41 inches long by 18.7 inches deep by 18.25 inches high
- Tabletop dimensions: 41 inches long by 18.7 inches deep
Pros
- Cost friendly
- Water-resistant glossy finish
- Roomy storage cubbies
Cons
- Relatively shallow hidden storage compartment
Get the Best Choice Products lift-top coffee table at Amazon, Target, or Best Choice Products.
Our Verdict
The Tangkula lift-top coffee table has a contemporary style, sturdy build, and nicely sized tabletop, making it the best lift-top coffee table for most homes. Though simpler in design, the Homcom lift-top coffee table is also a good pick, especially for those on a budget.
How We Chose the Best Lift-Top Coffee Tables
While lift-top coffee tables aren’t as popular as their traditional counterparts, there are still plenty of options on the market. This wide selection can quickly get overwhelming, so we’ve narrowed down the best lift-top coffee tables based on a few criteria.
To start, coffee tables are a centerpiece in most living spaces, so we paid a lot of attention to style and chose a range of coffee tables to suit current popular decors. Style doesn’t need to come at a huge cost, so we made sure to include several affordable tables on this list.
Since it has moving parts, functionality is much more important with a lift-top coffee table than a regular coffee table. We weighed performance as heavily as style and looked at features like ease of assembly, ease of use, and a smooth-operating and long-lasting lift mechanism to ensure each table was pleasant to use.
FAQs
The best lift-top coffee tables marry form and function in an attractive package. With several useful functions in an unassuming piece of furniture, they’re a good choice for most homes. Still on the fence about getting a lift-top coffee table? Consider the frequently asked questions and answers ahead.
Q. Do I need a coffee table?
Not necessarily, but they are useful. Choosing whether or not to have a coffee table depends on personal preference. While a coffee table isn’t always a necessity, a nice one can bring a space together and provide a spot to place and store items.
Q. Should I get a lift-top coffee table instead of a regular one?
Those who want a multipurpose piece of furniture should consider a lift-top coffee table instead of a regular one. A lift-top coffee table functions as a coffee table, a work or dining table, and a storage space all in one.
Q. How tall is a lift-top coffee table?
Height can differ from table to table, so consult the product’s listed dimensions before buying a lift-top coffee table. Many lift-top coffee tables have similar dimensions to regular coffee tables: between 12 and 24 inches high.
Q. Can I eat on a lift-top coffee table?
Yes, a lift-top coffee table can double as a dining table.
Q. How do I turn a coffee table into a lift-top table?
Some regular coffee tables can be turned into a lift-top table using a lift-top coffee table convertible hinge. These hinges install to the coffee table tabletop and base and enable the top to extend.
