These Outdoor Sectionals Are Durable, Comfy, and Stylish

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If you frequently host warm-weather gatherings in your backyard, an outdoor sectional is a must. They have the same flexibility as indoor modular seating—most can be arranged into more than one configuration to suit your space. Best of all, outdoor sectionals are generally low-maintenance, designed to withstand mold from moisture and fading from direct sunlight. Cushions are often fade- and water-resistant, and many have easy to clean, removable covers that you can toss in the washing machine. The bases are typically all-weather synthetic rattan or wicker wrapped around a metal frame, or wood with a protective coating that can handle being outside for seasons upon seasons.

Whether you have a spacious deck, a small patio, or an poolside area in need of seating, the best outdoor sectionals can turn your backyard into an inviting retreat perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and getting the most out of the sunny seasons.

For more great ways to upgrade your outdoor space, check out our picks for the best cantilever umbrellas and patio umbrellas.

The Best Outdoor Sectionals

• Best Overall: Alaulm 7-Piece Sectional with Fire Pit

• Best Budget: Soleil Jardin Outdoor Sectional with Table

• Best Value: Joss & Main Marine Patio Sectional With Sunbrella Cushions

• Best for Small Spaces: Best Choice Products Outdoor Woven L-Shaped Sectional

• Best Minimalist: AllModern Boaz 4-Piece Outdoor Sectional
  

What to Consider

Style and Shape

Overall, sectionals are pretty straightforward: they consist of two or more sofas or chairs that join together for spacious, relaxed seating. A standard L-shaped sectional is likely the first shape that comes to mind when you think about your backyard setup, but a unique or customizable shape may help you get the most out of all of your outdoor space. A sectional with multiple pieces like chaises and ottomans may be better for a larger deck, while a small loveseat with an armchair is a nice fit for a smaller patio.

Style is another factor to consider, depending on the atmosphere of your backyard. For a more modern aesthetic, look for designs with sleek silhouettes and clean lines. If your style is more bohemian, look for sections made with wicker and rattan for a warm and lived-in appearance.

Size and Configuration

The right size for your outdoor sectional depends on the layout of your backyard, deck, or patio, as well as the amount of people you want to accommodate. Measure your outdoor area and compare to the dimensions of your outdoor sectional to determine whether it will be a good fit without overcrowding the space. If you plan on adding a coffee table or opting for a sectional with an included one, make sure you have room for about a foot and a half of space between the seating and the table.

When it comes to configuration, a modular sectional lets you separate the furniture pieces to create a more customized seating area. Most of our picks come with detachable chairs and loungers, so you can make multiple configurations. Some come with connectors and handles for easy rearranging, while others may require additional hardware to lock furniture in place.

Base Material

Powder-coated aluminum and steel are two of the most common materials used for the bases of outdoor sectionals. These materials are weather-resistant so you won’t have to worry about corrosion, rust, or regular maintenance—aluminum is lightweight whereas steel is heavy.

There are also sectionals with hardwood frames, like teak and acacia, which are naturally rot-resistant and won’t decay from insects. Teak ages very beautifully, but both types of wood may need oil or varnish treatments to maintain longevity. All-weather synthetic wicker and rattan are also viable options for your outdoor sectional, since they are resistant to fading and moisture.

Cushion Material

The majority of outdoor sectional cushions are made of woven polyester blends or a similar synthetic fabric that are fade- and water-resistant, often treated to prevent mildew. If you want extra durability and can spend a bit more, opt for covers made of a high-performance fabric like Sunbrella. Cushions that have removable, machine-washable cushion covers are a more convenient option for cleaning.

Though some are waterproof or weather-resistant, we also recommend covering or storing your cushions during rain, and making sure they dry fully whenever they get wet.

How We Selected

To find the best outdoor sectionals, we read a wide variety of user reviews, compared features, and considered factors like style, comfort, and budget. We prioritized high-performance materials known for their durability and weather resistance, and those that don’t require a ton of maintenance, including all-weather synthetic rattan and cushions made with fade-resistant, removable covers. We also looked at different configurations of outdoor sectionals ranging from three-piece sectional sofas to extra-large options that can seat eight or more people, and included several styles that come with extras like fire pit tables or side tables.

7-Piece Outdoor Sectional With Fire Pit

This outdoor sectional conversation set comes equipped with just about everything you need to host. The electric fire pit table includes volcanic rock to keep embers and smoke at bay while offering a stylish centerpiece, and there’s a cover for when it’s not in use. The set also comes with a sofa, two chairs, and an end table, and the seats have higher backs and thicker cushions than many of the other options we recommend.

The frame is structured from powder-coated steel to prevent rust and corrosion over time, and the all-wicker structure won't trap moisture.

The set is very customizable so you can tune to accommodate your deck or patio. If you're looking for more or less pieces, you can purchase between 7 and 10.

Outdoor Sectional with Table

This outdoor sectional is attractive and modern, with a gray, powder-coated aluminum frame that gives it a fresh look—and it comes with a sleek, glass-topped coffee table.

The sectional’s deep gray cushions are covered with quick-drying and fade-resistant olefin fabric. Their covers are removable for easy cleaning, but it's important to note that the cushions aren't waterproof, so it's best not to leave them outside during inclement weather.

While you can only create two different assembly configurations, this sectional is a good space saver.

Marine Patio Sectional With Sunbrella Cushions

We recommend this oversized outdoor sectional if you're looking for an option that covers a lot of area at a fantastic value. It's modular so you can rearrange the pieces as needed, and the sofa comes with high-performance canvas Sunbrella cushions that are removable and machine-washable.

The couch uses all-weather wicker and has an aluminum frame, with square brushed metal feet for a modern touch. One particular bonus that stood out is that this piece comes fully assembled, so it's ready to go whenever you are.

Outdoor Sectional and Table

Anyone with a small deck, narrow balcony, or sliver of backyard should consider this petite outdoor sectional and side table. The set has a boho vibe but still looks polished, with all-weather rope and wicker covering steel frames. The side table is topped with tempered glass and the L-shaped sofa has an angled back and side arms.

The cushions are removable (although their covers are not), and you can detach the lounger to create an individual relaxation space.

Boaz 4-Piece Outdoor Sectional

Inspired by midcentury designs with a minimalist look, this outdoor sectional is a no-frills space-saver for your patio or deck. The frame is made from sturdy acacia wood that has an earthy feel, and there are two built-in end tables to keep beverages and reading materials close by.

The cushions are topped with a water-resistant protectant so they can withstand mild weather conditions. They are on the thinner side, though, so add a couple throw pillows for more comfortable lounging.

Patio Outdoor Sectional With Dining Set

Hosting dinner parties outside this summer can be easier than ever with this stylish sectional set. It comes with a dining table, three ottomans, and a sectional sofa that can be rearranged to your liking.

The couch can be left outside all year long, due to the powder-coated steel frame and wicker material that is less likely to hold trapped water. The table top is made from slatted plastic wood, so it’s easy to clean, and so are all the cushion covers, which come equipped with zippers for easy removal.

4-Piece Wicker Outdoor Sectional

With a sturdy base and an elegant curve, this outdoor sectional is both striking and understated. While it may have a slim silhouette, the semi-circular sofa has the ability to warm up a space, making it feel more intimate and cozy. It’s also under $600 at the time of this writing.

The modular three-piece sectional features all-weather wicker with an intricate, woven pattern. Its tailored beige cushions are done in a polyester blend and have zippers that make them easy to remove for cleaning. The only caveat is that the covers aren't machine-washable.

3-Piece Outdoor Sectional Sofa Set

You can add a pop of color to your patio or deck with this fiery red sectional set. The cushions are made with more than three inches of high-density foam for better resilience and extra comfort, and the covers are removable and machine-washable.

The included table has a tempered glass top that is sturdy and safer to use, and it tucks in nicely between the lounger and the loveseat if you want to store it out of the way. The frame is rust-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about putting the sectional in storage during colder months.

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