When furnishing a home, it’s easy to get lost in the vocabulary. What’s the difference between a credenza and a console table? Are sideboards and buffets the same thing? And does it even matter what you call them?

At Reperch, we believe the answer is yes because the right name can help you find exactly what you need. Whether you're hunting for a functional storage piece or a stylish surface for decor, understanding the real difference between a credenza and a console table helps you shop smarter, especially when browsing high-quality secondhand furniture.

Let’s break down what sets these two apart, how each is used, and why secondhand might be the best way to get the look and function you want without the price tag.

What Is a Credenza?

A credenza is a long, low storage cabinet, often found in dining rooms, offices, or living rooms. It usually sits close to the ground and features a flat surface on top for display or serving. Below, you’ll typically find a combination of cabinets and drawers, sometimes hidden behind sleek doors.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: Generally around 30 inches tall

• Shape: Long and low profile

• Storage: Concealed cabinets or drawers

• Legs: Often short or no legs at all

• Materials: Commonly made of wood, with metal or glass accents

Common Uses:

• Dining Room: Store dishes, linens, and serving ware

• Living Room: Serve as a media console for TVs and electronics

• Office: Organize paperwork, tech accessories, and decor

Credenzas are versatile enough to serve many roles, but their main strength lies in hidden storage. If you’re looking for something that blends design with function, a credenza delivers both.

What Is a Console Table?

A console table is a tall, narrow table often placed in entryways, hallways, or behind sofas. It’s designed more for display than for storage, although some versions may include slim drawers.

Key Characteristics:

• Height: Taller than a credenza, usually waist height or more

• Shape: Narrow with a shallow depth

• Storage: Usually open or minimal (sometimes a drawer or shelf)

• Legs: Taller legs, often delicate or decorative

• Materials: Wide range including wood, metal, marble, or glass

Common Uses:

• Entryway: A place for keys, mail, and lamps

• Living Room: Behind a sofa for books, lighting, or decor

• Hallway: A narrow surface to add visual interest and display pieces

While credenzas serve a primarily functional purpose, console tables are more aesthetic. They're ideal when space is limited and you want to make a room feel styled without taking up too much square footage.

Credenza vs Console Table: What’s the Real Difference?

While they can sometimes look similar, the real difference comes down to three things: height, storage, and function.

Sideboard, Buffet, Console Is It All the Same?

Not exactly but the names often overlap. Here’s a quick guide to help you untangle the terminology:

• Sideboard: Nearly identical to a credenza, typically used in dining rooms

• Buffet: A sideboard or credenza used specifically in a dining space

• Console Table: A tall, narrow table used for decor or light function

• Media Console: A low cabinet like a credenza, often with wire management features for electronics

The difference often comes down to where you place the furniture. For example, put a credenza in a dining room and it becomes a buffet. Move it to a living room, and it functions as a media cabinet.

Where Each Works Best

In the Dining Room:

• Choose a credenza or buffet

• Use it to store serving dishes, napkins, table runners, and flatware

• Style the top with a lamp, art, or floral arrangement

In the Entryway or Hallway:

• Choose a console table

• Keep things light and shallow to avoid blocking traffic

• Add baskets underneath for flexible storage

In the Living Room:

• Credenzas work well under TVs or as anchor pieces under art

• Console tables are perfect behind sofas or in narrow walkways

In a Home Office:

• Credenzas make great organizers for files, tech, and accessories

• Console tables can serve as compact desks or design features

Why Secondhand Is the Smart Choice

Whether you're drawn to the storage of a credenza or the style of a console table, buying secondhand offers serious benefits especially when shopping with Reperch.

1. Better Value for Quality

A high-end credenza can retail for $1,000 to $3,500 or more. Even a simple media console can start at $500 and climb quickly. Console tables, while often smaller, can still cost $300 to $800 depending on design.

Secondhand, you can get the same quality and aesthetic sometimes designer brands for a fraction of the original cost.

2. Unique Pieces with Character

Many credenzas and consoles found at Reperch are one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a mid-century walnut credenza or a vintage metal console table, secondhand furniture often has more personality than mass-market alternatives.

3. Sustainable Choice

Choosing secondhand helps keep high-quality furniture out of landfills. Every item you give a second life to reduces the demand for new manufacturing and minimizes environmental impact.

4. No Guesswork

At Reperch, each item is carefully vetted and photographed. You’ll know exactly what you’re getting dimensions, materials, condition so you can shop with confidence.

Tips for Choosing Between a Credenza and Console Table

If you're debating between the two, ask yourself the following:

• Do I need hidden storage? Go with a credenza.

• Do I need a slim profile in a tight space? Choose a console table.

• Am I placing it under a TV? A credenza will provide better proportion and function.

• Is it going behind a sofa or in a hallway? A console table is the right fit.

• Do I want the piece to do double-duty as storage and display? A credenza offers more versatility.

Final Thoughts: Which One Belongs in Your Home?

There’s no one right answer only the right piece for your needs, space, and style. A credenza delivers form and function with closed storage and a grounding presence in any room. A console table adds grace and personality without overwhelming your space.

At Reperch, we make it easy to find high-quality secondhand furniture that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a credenza to organize your dining essentials or a console table to elevate your entryway, we’ve got pieces that bring your home to life.

Ready to explore our curated collection?

Shop secondhand credenzas, console tables, and more at Reperch where style meets sustainability.