Wicker, metal and wood describe how a patio dining set looks and feels more than a single material, and many sets mix them. A set can have a steel frame, woven chairs and a wooden table top at once.
This guide compares the three styles with listing examples. For picks, see Best Wicker Patio Dining Sets, Best Metal Patio Dining Sets and Best Wood Patio Dining Sets.
Wicker
Outdoor wicker is usually synthetic resin (often called PE rattan) woven over a metal frame. It looks soft and casual, and chairs often come with cushions. It is comfortable, but the weave and cushions need cleaning, and cushion fabric will wear faster than the frame.
Example: wicker chairs with a wood top
The Shintenchi seven-piece set lists PE wicker chairs with cushions on a galvanized steel frame, with a wooden table top and armrests the maker describes as FSC-certified acacia. It is a good picture of how mixed these sets are.
Shintenchi 7-Piece Brown Rattan Patio Dining Set
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Metal
Metal sets are the plainest and easiest to live with. Slat tables and Textilene (mesh) chairs dry quickly and wipe clean. Frames are strong, but coatings matter, as covered in our aluminum vs steel vs iron guide. Metal chairs usually have no cushions unless added.
Example: steel table, mesh chairs
The SUNSHINE VALLEY five-piece set lists a 42 inch round metal table with an umbrella hole and four Textilene chairs. The maker states each chair holds up to 300 lb and describes the steel as powder-coated and e-coated.
SUNSHINEVALLEY 5-Piece Patio Dining Set Review
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Wood
Wood sets, most often acacia, look like indoor dining furniture and suit people who want a natural feel. They need the most care. Makers recommend periodic oiling or sealing, and wood is better kept out of standing water. If you want a deeper comparison of woods, see teak vs acacia vs HDPE.
Example: acacia set with an extendable table
The PHI VILLA nine-piece set lists a solid acacia table that extends to seat 6 to 8 by flipping the center panels, a 1.96 inch umbrella hole, and acacia chairs with removable cushions. The maker states a chair capacity of 300 lb.
PHI VILLA 9-Piece Acacia Wood Patio Dining Set
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Quick Comparison
| Style | Comfort | Upkeep | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wicker | Soft, usually cushioned | Clean weave and cushions | Cushion wear, loose weave |
| Metal | Firm, mesh seats dry fast | Wipe clean, check the coating | Chips in the finish |
| Wood | Natural, cushions often removable | Periodic oiling or sealing | Standing water, fading |
- Want a lounge-like feel at the table: wicker.
- Want the easiest cleanup: metal with mesh chairs.
- Want a natural look and will maintain it: wood.
- Cannot decide: a mixed set, with the material of each part confirmed in the listing.
FAQ
Which style is most comfortable?
Wicker sets with cushions usually feel softest. Mesh metal chairs are cooler in summer. Wood chairs depend on whether cushions are included.
Which needs the least maintenance?
Metal with mesh seating generally needs the least. Wood needs the most, per most makers' care instructions.
Are mixed-material sets a good idea?
They can be, since each part uses the material that suits it. Check each part's material in the listing and each part's weight capacity from the maker.
Should I store cushions?
Follow the cushion maker's advice. Many suggest storing cushions during heavy rain or off-season.
The Bottom Line
Choose wicker for a softer, cushioned seat, metal for easy care, and wood for a natural look if you will maintain it. Read the material line for each part of a mixed set, and rely on the maker's stated limits.
Browse more in the Patio Dining Sets category.
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