A contemporary aluminum set: Cambridge Nova 7-Piece Rectangular Outdoor Dining Set

Why we like it:

• Great value: Attractive aluminum dining sets designed for six at this price are few and far between, making the Cambridge Nova 7-Piece Rectangular Outdoor Dining Set an especially good deal.
• Modern style: It’s a great choice for someone looking for a contemporary design in line with a West Elm/CB2 aesthetic, sans their typically higher prices. Many of the aluminum sets we saw at this price looked far more traditional.
• Weather resistant: We haven’t long-term tested this set, but given that the entire aluminum surface is treated with weather-resistant and scratchproof coating we think it’s a good low-maintenance choice for leaving out year-round in any climate (especially if you cover it during harsh winter months).
• Stackable chairs (for easy storage): The PVC mesh back chairs are stackable and light enough to lift with one hand (and easy to clean).
• Stays cool: Unlike steel seats, the aluminum stays comfortably cool even in full sunlight.

Flaws but not dealbreakers:

• Noisy in the rain: During a downpour in our yard, we noticed that the pitter-patter of rain hitting this table resulted in the percussive sounds of a speed metal drummer; it’s not an unpleasant rhythm, but those sensitive to sound may want to go with a wood or resin rattan set for a gentler sound.
• Availability issues: We’ve noticed some stock issues for this set, so it may not always be available.

Key specs:
Colors: Dark gray
Warranty: One-year limited
Table dimensions: 35 by 63 by 29 inches (width by length by height)
Seat dimensions: 18½ by 22 by 34½ inches (width by depth by height)

• Real wood, plastic price: Of the 12 wood sets we considered, the Äpplarö Table and 4 Armchairs is the best-looking inexpensive option we liked. It’s made of acacia wood, which isn’t as durable as teak but is much more affordable.
• Large capacity: It’s one of the only tables we found at this price that expands to seat 10.
• Lots of seating choices: Of all the outdoor dining sets we looked at, no other offered as many seating options (including upright armchairs, foldable chairs, reclining chairs, or even benches) and choices for complementary pieces.

Flaws but not dealbreakers:

• Not totally winter-proof: In our experience, this table is not a suitable choice for leaving out year-round in very wet or snowy climates; one of our editors in Connecticut found this table lost its finish and warped in a year left outside. But our long-term tester in LA has found this table has worn just fine. Get a cover for it if you want to protect it from the elements.
• Requires annual maintenance: As with most wood outdoor furniture, you’ll likely need to do some kind of annual maintenance on the table, depending on its degree of weathering.