Sideboard, buffet, credenza and hutch: four names for long, low dining storage, and furniture stores use them almost interchangeably. The differences are small but real, and they affect which one fits your room. Here's what each one is, how they compare in height, storage and style, and how to choose.
The Quick Comparison
| Sideboard | Buffet | Credenza | Hutch | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical height | 30–36 in, often on legs | 34–38 in, usually solid to the floor | 28–32 in, low and sleek | 60–80 in+ (base plus upper) |
| Storage | Cabinets and drawers | Cabinets and drawers, often deeper | Doors (often sliding), few drawers | Closed base plus a glass or open upper |
| Typical room | Dining, living, entry | Dining | Living, office, under a TV | Dining, kitchen |
| Style | Any | More traditional and substantial | Modern, mid-century | Traditional, farmhouse |
In everyday U.S. usage, "sideboard" and "buffet" are mostly the same thing: a dining-room cabinet with a serving surface. If anything, a buffet is the slightly taller, heavier version, and a sideboard tends to be lighter and raised on legs.
What Is a Sideboard?
A sideboard is a long, low cabinet that traditionally stood along the side wall of a dining room, which is where the name comes from. It stores dishes, linens and flatware, and its top is used for serving. Sideboards are usually 30–36 in tall, 15–20 in deep and 48–84 in wide. The Orbis Rounded Edge Sideboard (86.6 in W × 19.6 in D × 35.4 in H) is a modern example, with 22 in wide drawers, interior shelves rated for 22 lb each, and a top rated for 110 lb.
What Is a Buffet?
A buffet is a dining sideboard built for serving. It's usually a little taller, around counter height, so you can stand and serve from it, and it often sits on a solid base rather than legs. The name comes from French, where "buffet" meant a serving sideboard. Today, any dining storage cabinet used to lay out food for guests is called a buffet.
What Is a Credenza?
A credenza is lower and sleeker, often with sliding doors and a modern or mid-century look. Credenzas are common in living rooms, under TVs and in home offices. If you're comparing it with bedroom storage, see our dresser vs. chest of drawers vs. credenza guide.
What Is a Hutch?
A hutch combines a sideboard-style base with an upper cabinet, usually with glass doors or open shelves for displaying dishes. It's tall and makes a statement. The Wood Pantry Cabinet with Mesh Doors, Drawers and Open Shelving (63 in W × 78.7 in H) works as a hutch, with 6 drawers, 4 mesh doors and open display shelves. For choosing glass-door hutches and china cabinets, read how to choose a china cabinet.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose a sideboard or buffet if…
- You entertain and want a serving surface near the table.
- You need closed storage for linens, serving pieces and holiday dishes.
- You want one piece that also works in a living room or entryway.
Choose a credenza if…
- It's going under a TV or in an office.
- You want a low, minimal profile.
Choose a hutch if…
- You have a large dining room and want to display china.
- You need the most storage per foot of wall.
Size and Placement
- Length: about two-thirds of the wall, or roughly as long as the dining table.
- Height: 30–36 in sits just above the table (about 30 in), which works for serving.
- Depth: 15–20 in. Leave at least 36 in between the sideboard and the backs of pulled-out chairs.
- Above it: hang art or a mirror 6–10 in above the top.
Other Picks by Style
- Traditional / French: the Relievo Carved Drawer Chest (47.2 in W × 31.7 in H), a six-drawer buffet with smooth three-section slides, a top rated for 176 lb and carved detailing.
- Industrial / modern: the Storage Cabinet with Glass Doors and Metal Frame (60 in W × 31.2 in H), with fluted glass, 3-color LED lighting and a top rated for 88 lb.
- Soft modern: the rounded Orbis sideboard in oak, natural wood or dark walnut.
How to Style a Sideboard
Hang one large piece of art or a mirror above it. Add a pair of lamps, or one tall arrangement off-center. Keep a tray for serving. Leave space free so it still works as a buffet. Inside, put the pieces you use most in the top drawers, and seasonal dishes behind the doors.
FAQ
Which is taller, a sideboard or a buffet?
Usually a buffet. Buffets are closer to counter height (about 34–38 in), while sideboards often sit at 30–36 in on legs.
Is a credenza the same as a sideboard?
They're similar. A credenza is typically lower and more modern, with sliding doors, and it's used more in living rooms and offices.
Are hutches outdated?
No. Hutches with glass or open shelves are popular again in farmhouse, cottage and traditional dining rooms.
Do people still use sideboards?
Yes. They're among the most versatile storage pieces, used in dining rooms, living rooms, entryways and under TVs.
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