When choosing a dining cabinet, do you feel confused? Credenza, buffet, and sideboard—what is the difference between them? How to choose the right one?
Today we will compare the difference between these products to help you solve the problem. Choose a more suitable cabinet for your living room, dining room and so on.
What Is a Credenza?
A credenza is a long, relatively low storage cabinet. It is derived from the Italian word and was originally just a rough table covered with a tablecloth. However, it is now commonly used as a sideboard in homes and restaurants.
Where to Use a Credenza?
- Living Room → Media console (hides TV cables & gaming gear)
- Dining Room → Stylish dishware storage
- Home Office → File and supply organizer
- Bedroom → Alternative to a dresser or vanity
What Is a Buffet?
A buffet is a long, low storage cabinet designed for use in a restaurant to store dishes, serve food and display decorative items.
Unlike sideboards or display cabinets, buffets are taller (usually 36-42 inches tall), and their flat, sturdy tops are perfect for setting out meals during a party.
Where to Use a Buffet?
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dining room → to store china, tablecloths and cutlery
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Entertainment area → set up buffet food stations for parties
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entryway → extra storage for seasonal decorations or tableware
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kitchen → extra storage space (for large dishes)
Explore More Buffet:
What Is a Sideboard?
A sideboard is a versatile, low-profile storage unit designed for a dining room, living room or foyer.
It usually features a combination of drawers, cabinets, and open shelves, making it ideal for storing dishes, displaying decorative items, or serving food during gatherings.
Click on another blog about what a sideboard is to learn more! Create your own comfortable dining space!
Where to Use a Sideboard?
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Dining room → to store tableware, linens and barware
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Living room → media console (to hide TV cables and clutter)
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Entrance → area for keys and bags (with storage)
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Bedroom→extra clothing or dresser storage
Explore More Sideboards:
Credenza vs. Buffet vs. Sideboard: A Quick Comparison
To give you a clearer picture, we have provided a comparison table.
|
Feature |
Credenza |
Buffet |
Sideboard |
|
Primary Use |
Closed storage (files, media) |
Food serving & storage |
Multi-purpose storage |
|
Height |
28–34 inches (low profile) |
36–42 inches (tall) |
30–36 inches (mid-height) |
|
Depth |
16–18 inches (slim) |
18–22 inches |
18–20 inches |
|
Storage Style |
Sliding doors and shelves |
Mostly cabinets |
Mix of drawers and cabinets |
|
Top Surface |
Flat (for TV/display) |
Wide & sturdy (for serving) |
Decorative (lamps, art) |
|
Best Room |
Home office, living room |
Formal dining room |
Dining room, entryway |
|
Common Styles |
Mid-century modern, sleek |
Traditional, ornate |
Versatile (modern to rustic) |
|
Price Range |
$300–$2000+ |
$400–$2500+ |
$250–$1500+ |
Credenza vs. Buffet vs. Sideboard: Which Is Right for You?
Once you have clearly compared the differences between the three, you can begin to choose based on your space!
1. Measure Your Space
Choose the right dining cabinet based on the size of your space, especially the width and height.
Choose the sideboard for smaller spaces because there are more sizes and styles, and they are usually smaller for smaller spaces.
While the other two Buffet and Credenza, are longer. When choosing, pay particular attention to the width and whether your reserved space can fit.
2. Determine Primary Use
Determine your needs before you buy! Storage? Display? Or meal preparation?
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For storage, choose a sideboard with drawers, which is usually closed storage with hidden organizer doors that reduce clutter.
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For display, meal prep options choose the Buffet and Credenza, which both have a combination of open and closed storage. For a formal dining room, the buffet can be a great choice for serving and display!
3. Match the Style
As well as clarifying the function, it's also important to consider matching the style.
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The credenza fits the modern style because of its minimalist lines and sliding door design that meets modern needs.
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Buffet, on the other hand, suits the traditional style with more classical designs, such as embossed, turned wood legs and curved decorations made for banquets.
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If you're still stumped, go for the sideboard! It's the most versatile and least error-prone option.
Conclusion
Credenza vs. Buffet vs. Sideboard: they are each unique in their own way, and whichever one you choose is perfect for your home!
At Homeyfad, we have both buffets & sideboards, enough for every family need! With a wide variety of designs, shop now for great deals!
FAQs
Q: Can I mix and match sideboards, buffets, and credenzas?
A: Absolutely. Yes, you can freely mix and match their use, as the terms are largely interchangeable in modern home decor. Feel free to use a piece called a "buffet" in your entryway as a "credenza" or place a "sideboard" in your living room; it's all about your personal style and storage needs.
Q: How can I choose quickly? Credenza vs. buffet vs. sideboard?
A: So easy!
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For storage: Choose a Credenza or Sideboard design with plenty of drawers and compartments.
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For display: Choose a design with a spacious countertop, glass doors, or open shelves.
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For small spaces: Choose a Sideboard design with slim legs and a minimalist design to reduce the feeling of crowding.
Q: How should I choose a sideboard for a modern, minimalist living room?
A: Choose one with clean lines, no handles, and a predominantly neutral color scheme. Such as wood sideboards, black sideboards, or white sideboards are all suitable. If you want more storage space, choose a sideboard with drawers.