1. Low Table

Low tables were designed to be used on a kang (the traditional heated brick Chinese bed). They were usually placed along the length of the bed. In northern China, in the summer months, families would place the kang table on the ground and sit on stools or in folding chairs around it when eating. They are more common in the north.

2. Long, Low Narrow, Rectangular Table

These tables are narrower than the kang tables and were used at either end, or short side of the kang bed to hold small objects of daily use. Some of these tables have doors and drawers; these were made in the Qing Dynasty.

3.  Incense Stand

Most incense stands were circular which allowed attractive placement in the center of a room. These stands generally have three to five legs and may have a solid base, or stretchers which connect from leg to leg. The rectangular incense stand was less common. The tea stand evolved from the rectangular incense stand and was used commonly in the Qing Dynasty. These tables were made in sets and placed between pairs of chairs.

4. Wine and “Half” Table

Both the wine table and the “half” table are small, to medium sized rectangular tables. The wine table, which is generally smaller than the "half " table, was used for serving wine and the “half” table, which is generally higher and deeper than the wine table, was used to extend the length of a square table. These tables were made in large quantity and thus many fine examples still exist today.

5. Square Table

Square tables were generally made in three sizes: the largest is thirty inches wide and can seat eight people, the medium table is about twenty-six inches wide, and the smallest table is twenty-four inches wide. The medium and small tables are generally two inches or more lower than the large table. Square tables may or may not be waisted and there are many variations of stretchers and bracers. Many Ming Dynasty square tables still exist.

6. Long, Narrow Table

Long narrow tables come in many varieties. The "three board table" looks like it is made of three boards, one for the top and two for the legs. Other forms may have corner legs, recessed legs, or a removable top which rests on two pedestals. Traditionally these tables were placed along the north wall of the central room and could also be placed along the east and west walls. Flower vases, bronzes, porcelain, and small screens were placed on these tables.

7. Long Broad Table

Long broad tables were generally used as painting tables where a broader top was needed to hold silk or paper for painting. They may have either corner legs or recessed legs. Writing tables are much like painting tables but also include drawers to hold writing implements. In the Ming Dynasty writing tables had few drawers, while in the Qing Dynasty writing tables had many drawers.