Folding tables come in many different styles and serve a variety of purposes. The most common folding tables are banquet tables, camping tables, portable tables, and TV trays. Each style folds up in some way to allow for easy storage and transport when not in use. Knowing the different types of folding tables and their features can help you decide which is best for your needs.
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Banquet Tables
Banquet tables are long rectangular tables that can seat multiple people, typically used for large gatherings and events. They are designed to fold up lengthwise into a skinny rectangle for easy storage. Banquet tables often have a laminate surface or plastic tops that are durable and easy to clean. The legs fold underneath the table top and lock into place.
Here are some key features of banquet tables:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | Typically 6-8 people per 6-foot table |
| Folding mechanism | Fold lengthwise into a narrow rectangle |
| Table top | Laminate or plastic top is scratch resistant and easy to clean |
| Legs | Fold or telescope underneath table |
| Weight | Medium/heavy – around 50 pounds |
| Portability | Wheels on some models for transport |
Banquet tables are a great choice for hosting large dinners, buffets, conferences, parties, and other big gatherings where you need seating for many guests. They provide a large, stable surface and fold down to a slimmer size for storage in closets or under beds when not in use.
Camping Tables
Camping tables are designed for outdoor use and portability when camping or during other activities like picnics, tailgating, beach trips, and more. They fold down small to transport in the car and weigh much less than banquet tables.
Here are the defining features of camping tables:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | Typically 2-4 people per table |
| Folding mechanism | Fold up legs and collapse smaller |
| Table top | Plastic or aluminum top |
| Legs | Height adjustable; lock into place |
| Weight | Lightweight – around 10-20 pounds |
| Portability | Very portable for transport and setup |
The small tabletop and foldable legs make camping tables extremely portable and easy to transport. They work well for eating meals, playing games, and food preparation at campsites or any outdoor location. The table tops are durable but lightweight.
Portable Tables
Portable folding tables offer lightweight convenience for situations where a full-sized table is needed but space is limited. They are smaller in size than banquet tables but larger than camping tables.
Characteristics of portable folding tables:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | 2-4 people |
| Folding mechanism | Fold up legs underneath |
| Table top | Plastic or wood laminate |
| Legs | Fold up under table |
| Weight | Light to medium – 10 to 30 pounds |
| Portability | Very portable – easy to transport and move |
These compact folding tables are useful for small gatherings, games, crafts, and situations where table space is required but floor space is minimal. They fold down thin for storage in closets, under beds, or behind furniture when not needed.
TV Trays
TV trays are small, lightweight folding tables designed specifically for holding food and drinks while watching TV or working on laptops. They provide a convenient surface for snacking and computing on the couch or bed.
Key attributes of TV trays:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | 1 person |
| Folding mechanism | Folded legs or sliding legs |
| Table top | Plastic or laminated top with raised edges |
| Legs | Long legs allow over-bed/couch use |
| Weight | Very lightweight – under 10 pounds |
| Portability | Very portable with carry handles |
The solitary design and foldable/collapsible legs make TV trays super convenient for placing food and drinks in the living room. They can also be used as a laptop desk or project workspace. When not in use, they slide under furniture or stand vertically in closets.
Choosing the Best Folding Table
When selecting a folding table, consider where and how you plan to use it. Here are some usage considerations:
| Usage | Recommended Table |
|---|---|
| Large gatherings/events | Banquet |
| Camping/outdoor activities | Camping |
| Small gatherings | Portable |
| Eating/working solo | TV tray |
| Limited space | TV tray or portable |
| Frequent transport | Camping or portable |
Also consider the frequency of use, amount of storage space available, table top surface, and overall sturdiness needed. Banquet tables are the most heavy duty but all provide a folding solution for minimizing space when not in use.
Conclusion
Folding tables come in many styles to suit different needs. Banquet tables accommodate large groups, camping tables provide lightweight outdoor usage, portable tables offer compact multipurpose functionality, and TV trays are ideal for snacking solo in front of the TV. Evaluate your intended uses, space constraints, portability needs, and seating requirements when choosing a folding table. Any of these table types can fold up for easy storage when not in frequent use. Their foldable, storable nature makes folding tables a convenient solution for eating, working, and playing in spaces of all sizes.