A good bit darker in reality, just like another reviewer said. The metal frame is also darker in person - looks like a dark silver tone in the picture, but it doesn't look at all silver in person. That being said, it is GORGEOUS. It is modern, and warm, and *substantial* - looks like it should cost twice as much. The reclaimed top is rustic, yet the alternate angles make it refined. There are elevation differences in some of the boards that you can feel when you run your hands over the top, and you can feel some of the texture of the knots, but it is still satiny smooth with no rough spots or patches. The metal frame was easy to put together and the finished table is rock solid. I LOVE this coffee table!