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Head to head

Coleman Pack-Away 4-in-1 vs Lifetime 80160 (2027)

Two tables against two tables: the shape-shifting Coleman 4-in-1 against the adjustable-height Lifetime 80160, compared on versatility, capacity and transport for 2027 buyers.

TGBy TrueGear Research TeamIndependent editorial teamLast updated How we researchResearch-based assessment · Camp Tables
Specs verified against manufacturer docs
No paid placements
Independently funded by readers
Updated 2026-10-30
Coleman Pack-Away 4-in-1 vs Lifetime 80160 (2027) featured graphic

What owners report

Most praised
  • Splitting the pair for separate jobs, then joining them for dinner, is the trick owners mention most.
  • Low coffee-table height works well beside camp chairs, where a dining-height table would feel too tall.
  • Carry handle and flat fold make it easy to slide into a loaded car without a separate bag hunt.
Common complaints
  • First setup takes patience until the joining brackets and height locks become familiar.
  • Hot pans and camp stoves need a separate heat-safe surface, since the tops are not made for direct heat.
  • A seam remains where the two halves meet, which shows when writing or playing cards across the join.

What owners report

Most praised
  • Counter height setting saves backs during food prep, since chopping no longer means bending over a low table.
  • Narrow width fits in small tents, porches and camper aisles where a wider table would block the walkway.
  • Stain-resistant top wipes clean after craft paint, potting soil and camp cooking in turn.
Common complaints
  • Weight surprises buyers who expected a light camp table rather than a sturdy utility table.
  • Adjusting leg height with one hand while steadying the table takes practice and patience.
  • Full-length top does not fold in half, so it needs a longer storage slot than a fold-in-half table.

Our recommendation

Choose the Coleman if one purchase must do many jobs: two tables, four layouts and three heights cover coffee, dining, buffet and serving in a flat-fold bundle. Choose the Lifetime if one sturdy surface matters most: a single 48 by 24 inch HDPE top, a 350 lb rating and counter height for standing work beat the Coleman's flexibility for heavy, everyday use. For a camper who hosts and serves, the Coleman wins. For a camper who also works, crafts and loads the table hard at home, the Lifetime wins.

Flexibility against single-surface strength

The Coleman splits, joins and stacks, so it adapts to the day's layout, while the Lifetime offers one fixed top shape at three heights. A buyer who rearranges the pitch through the day will use the Coleman's tricks constantly, while a buyer who sets one table and loads it will prefer the Lifetime's unbroken surface and higher rating.

Height range and how it is used

Both tables adjust, but differently: the Coleman moves from 14.5 inch coffee height to 31.5 inch serving height, which suits low camp chairs and buffets, while the Lifetime moves from 24 inch child height to 36 inch counter height, which suits children and standing prep. Low-chair campers should take the Coleman; standing cooks and craft users should take the Lifetime.

Transport and top type

The Coleman folds flat to about 24 by 3 by 16 inches at about 12.3 lb, while the Lifetime folds its legs under a full 48 inch top at about 24.9 lb. The Coleman travels easier, but its tops are not for stoves or very hot items, while the Lifetime's HDPE top handles heavy, messy loads with a simple wipe. Weight against toughness is the real trade here.

Choose Coleman Pack-Away 4-in-1 Folding Table (2000018147) if…

  • One table must cover coffee, dining, buffet and serving across a weekend
  • Low camp chairs are your main seating, so a 14.5 inch setting matters
  • A flat, light bundle for a small car matters more than maximum load
  • You host and rearrange the pitch through the day

Choose Lifetime Commercial Adjustable Folding Table, 4-Foot (80160) if…

  • One sturdy surface for dining, crafts, sewing or market work matters most
  • Standing prep at counter height is a regular job
  • Heavy loads near 350 lb are expected, from coolers to cast iron
  • You want a hard, wipe-clean HDPE top rather than a split surface

Questions, answered

Which table is better for a family of four?

Both work, for different reasons. The Coleman gives four diners a square table plus a second surface for drinks or serving, while the Lifetime gives four diners one sturdy 48 inch top with height choice. For a family that also crafts or preps food standing up, the Lifetime edges ahead.

Which packs smaller in a car?

The Coleman, clearly: about 24 by 3 by 16 inches folded at about 12.3 lb, against a full-length 48 inch Lifetime top at about 24.9 lb. For a small boot, the Coleman is the easier carry.

Can either table hold a camp stove?

Neither is the right stove surface. The Coleman tops are not recommended for stoves or very hot items, and the Lifetime, while sturdy, is a dining and utility top, not a heat-resistant stove stand. Use a dedicated stove stand or a GCI heat-resistant counter for cooking.

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