It is crucial to assess the quality of the hinges in a lift-top coffee table. You can find tables made of pure oak or durable MDF or many other quality materials, but the hinges should be of the best quality to give you a long-lasting piece.
The hinges should be made of high-quality metal, such as heavy-gauge steel, because you don't want them to wear out over time. You should also opt for powder-coated metal to avoid corrosion, which could cause the hinge mechanism to stick and lower its weight capacity.
The mechanism should open smoothly without shaking or sticking and feature a secure lock that clicks into place when the tabletop is fully extended. For a top made from a lightweight material, look for a tightly coiled spring at each hinge. Heavier tabletops should have a gas pneumatic or hydraulic lifts to support the weight of the tabletop and your coffee table essentials.