Gesthaven 6-Piece Dining Set vs Skempton 7-Piece Dining Set

Both are 4.7-rated six-seat sets with a 60 by 36 inch table, so the choice comes down to seating and finish. The Gesthaven mixes four chairs with a bench, which suits households with kids or a bench-friendly corner; the Skempton gives six matching ladderback chairs with cushioned seats, better for dinner parties where everyone wants a back. Owners of both report solid everyday construction for the category, with assembly the main complaint. The Skempton's upholstered seats and extra chair edge it for formal or frequent entertaining; the Gesthaven's bench and blue-and-wood look suit casual, family-first rooms.

• Choose the Gesthaven if you want a bench for kids or a casual mixed-seat look and prefer a dark blue and natural wood finish.
• Choose the Skempton if you regularly seat six at dinner and want every guest in a cushioned, backed chair.