Easy to put together. I did it by hand instead of power tools as to not strip the screws or crack the table and it was not hard. It’s easier with two people but I was able to do half of the chairs by myself. Other reviewers mentioned the stain wasn’t done very well. Honestly, for the price of this large table and 8 chairs, I think it’s exactly what you pay for. The stain isn’t perfectly evenly distributed but you only notice it as you put it together, not when it’s completed and outside. After researching and settling on this one I feel like I got a very good deal for this style of table. It looks just like the pictures. The chairs are comfy enough without pads but could be added without making the seat height too high. We have it under a covered porch so I can’t speak to how the finish does in the direct sun and weather.