Whether you’re looking for a workout bench, a garden bench, or a stylish indoor bench, there are a few key factors to consider before making your purchase. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best bench for your needs. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Lifetime 60054 Convertible Bench
- Best Wooden: Vifah V1333 Outdoor Wood Garden Bench
- Best Metal: Sunnydaze 2-Person Ivy Crossweave Cast Iron Bench
- Best Storage: Keter Eden 70 Gallon Storage Bench
- Best Contemporary: Christopher Knight Home Carlisle
- Best Rustic Bench: Leigh Country TX 94101 Metal Welcome Bench
Buying Guide
- Purpose and usage – Determine how the benches will be used. Will they be indoor or outdoor benches? Casual seating or task seating? This will help guide the material and design choices.
- Style – Do you have a specific style in mind for the benches? Contemporary? Traditional? Rustic? Choose a style that matches the overall aesthetic you want.
- Material – Common options include wood (teak, cedar, pine, etc.), metal (steel, aluminum, wrought iron), stone, composite wood, etc. Consider the durability, maintenance, weather resistance, and comfort of different materials.
- Construction – Solid wood or wood laminate? Metal tubing frames or wood joints? Sturdy benches will last longer. Check the frame construction and joinery.
- Seat size – Measure the space where you want to place the benches to ensure ample seating size. Standard widths are around 42-48 inches.
- Backrest – Decide if you want benches with a backrest or without. Backrest provides more support but takes up more space.
- Armrests – Armrests can be useful for accessibility, comfort, or separating seating areas. But they narrow the seating space.
- Weather resistance – For outdoor benches, check the water resistance and weather durability of the chosen material and frame. Some protective sealers or powder coats may be required.
- Comfort -Consider the thickness, cushioning, and support provided by different seat materials like wood, stone, concrete, metal, etc. Softer wood or cushions may be comfier for longer sitting.
- Extras – Additional features like a slatted back, footrest, headrest, heat lamp, canopy, etc. provide more comfort and utility depending on usage.
Best Benches Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the different types of benches available?
A: There are many types of benches available, including workout benches, garden benches, storage benches, entryway benches, and dining benches.
Q: What should I consider when buying a bench?
A: When buying a bench, consider the material, size, weight capacity, comfort, and style. Think about how you will use the bench and where it will be placed.
Q: What are some of the top brands for benches?
A: Some of the top brands for benches include Bowflex, NordicTrack, Bowery Hill, Safavieh, and Ashley Furniture.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a bench?
A: The price of a bench can vary widely depending on the type, material, and brand. You can find benches for as little as $50 or as much as $500 or more.
Q: Can I use a workout bench for other purposes?
A: Yes, many workout benches can also be used for other purposes, such as a flat bench for seating or a decline bench for stretching. Just be sure to check the weight capacity and stability before using it for non-workout purposes.
Final Thought
A bench is a versatile and functional addition to any space, but choosing the right one can be a challenge. By considering your needs, budget, and style preferences, you can find the perfect bench for your home, garden, or gym. With this buying guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and find the best bench for your needs.
