Swings, a slide, monkey bars and more… A small swing set can still have a lot of great features.
Add a small swing set to a small yard and you get lots of fun!
Our roundup of the best swing sets for small backyards in 2023 will help you make the right choice for your space.
>>> I know about swing sets already, jump me straight to the reviews <<<
Best Swing Sets For Small Backyards 2023:
At A Glance List
Below is a quick view of my favorite swing sets for small backyards. To find out more about them click on the link to take you to the full review.
| Name | Size (ft) | Rating | |
| #1: Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: ♦ Best Buy ♦ | 19 x 14 x 9 | 95% |  Read Review |
| #2: Trekassy Saucer Tree Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Swinging! | 5.9 x 6.7 x 5.6 | 93% | Read Review |
| #3: Fitness Reality 8 Station Metal Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Play Options | 13 x 9 x 6 | 92% | Read Review |
| #4: Lifetime A-Frame Metal Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Older Children | 13.6 x 10.6 x 9.3 | 91% | Read Review |
| #5: Easter Jungle Gym Classic Cedar Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Durability | 12 x 8 x 7.8 | 91% | Read Review |
| #6: Lifetime A-Frame Adventure Playset >>> BEST FOR: Build Quality | 15 x 14 x 11 | 91% | Read Review |
| #7: IronKids Premier Fitness Blue >>> BEST FOR: Active Kids | 13.5 x 10.3 x 6.4 | 90% | Read Review |
| #8: Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Different Features | 11.6 x 7.8 x 6.8 | 90% | Read Review |
| #9: Swing-N-Slide Wooden Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Limited Space | 6.10 x 7.8 x8.8 | 89% | Read Review |
| #10: Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Small Children | 5.5 x 4.9 x 4 | 88% | Read Review |
| #11: Super Deal Kids Web Tree Saucer Swing >>> BEST FOR: Ease of Assembly | 7.2 x 5.3 x 5.9 | 87% | Read Review |
| #12: XDP Recreation Blue Ridge Play Swing Set >>> BEST FOR: Budget Buy | 10.6 x 7.8 x 6.1 | 85% | Read Review |
Choosing A Swing Set
Before we dive in to the reviews there are some important things to consider when you are thinking about getting yourself a small playset for your backyard.
Let’s look at these in a bit more detail…
How Old Are Your Children?
This will have a big impact on the type of swing set you go for. Toddlers of 2-or-3-years-old will obviously want something a bit different from an 8-or-9-year-old.
There are plenty of options for toddlers, which naturally are usually a lot smaller and easy to assemble that those for slightly older children. They are also often a little cheaper as a result
However remember though that they will grow out of these quite quickly.
The point?
Plan ahead. In the same way you often will buy clothes a couple of year groups ahead so your children can grow into them there are plenty of small swing sets that are aimed at children 4-or-5-years-old and upwards that still have a play station that can satisfy a younger child for a couple of years.
You can even buy modular swing sets that you can add parts to as your children grow.
I am sure you don’t need me to tell you, they grow so quickly!
What Kind Of Activities Do You (Or Your Children) Want?
Are you just looking for a simple swing set? If so you have plenty of choices.
But there are also swing sets with other options – such as slides, climbing ropes, monkey bars and much much more!
This calls for…
A conversation with your child/children! Find out what is most important to them. If they are like mine they will want everything, but ask them to prioritise their three most important features.
Going back to thinking ahead, if you have a younger child and an older child check out the swings and the slide. Are the swings adjustable so you can adapt one for your toddler? Is the slide a bit too big and fast for your two-year-old?
What Material Is It Made Out Of?
Essentially you are choosing between plastic, wood and metal, so let’s try and summarise their good and bad points below.
Plastic
Pros
- Lighter, so easier to move
- Easy to clean/maintenance free
- Cheaper
- Doesn’t rust or splinter
- Usually easier to assemble
Cons
- Absorbs heat so can get very warm on sunny days
- More likely to break
- Can bleach in the sun
Wood
Pros
- Looks great
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Easier to replace broken parts
- Can add parts over the years
Cons
- More expensive
- Needs to be well cared for
- More difficult to assemble
Metal
Pros
- Strong
- Less maintenance
- Less likely to wear
- Cheaper than wood
- Easier to assemble
Cons
- Can rust
- Conducts heat
- Can’t easily customise in future
In all reality it depends on what you are looking for and how confident you are assembling your swing set and your budget.
How Easy Is It To Put Together?
I am going to let you into a little secret here…
I am no good at putting things together!
In my list below some of the swing sets are easier than others to put together. But none of them are impossible to put together.
Some will require more than one person to assemble them – but they can all be assembled!
Reality is:
Wooden swing sets are often the most difficult to put together, so if you are not comfortable constructing these things please remember this.
Or…
Employ a professional to set it up for you – most companies will offer this service at an extra charge and if it is going to save you a lot of hassle and stress it might be worth it.
Some of the options below require anchoring to stabilise them and one needs cementing.
I have also given an indication in each review of how difficult they each are to assemble.
What Size Is It?
I’ve entitled this post the best swing sets for small backyards, but of course this is very subjective.
What one person considers a small yard another person might consider a medium sized or even large yard.
What I have done is included a range of options and listed the dimensions of each of these swing sets. So as long as you know the size of your yard you will know if you preferred choice fits it or not!
For a more thorough run down of what to consider if you are buying a swing set you might want to watch the video below:
Editor’s Note
I hope you love the products that I recommend here! Just so you know, I work with Amazon and other affiliate partners and may be compensated from the links below.
Best Swing Sets For Small Backyards in 2023
#1 Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those young at heart who want a swing set they can enjoy with their kids
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 18”10 x 14
- Weight Capacity: 640 lb
- Age Range: 3 to 12
- Activities: 5
- Warranty: 5 year
- PRICE GUIDE: $$
The Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set is a great metal swing set, that is very sturdy and big enough that adults and kids can play together on it!
So what do you get?
There is a 9 foot slide, monkey bars, a fireman’s pole, three swings and a trapeze bar complete with gym rings. It is made of steel.
Who is it for?
Officially for 3 to 12 year olds, but it is actually pretty versatile and as it is so tall (the height of the bar the swings and gym rings hang from is 7 feet 8 inches) even adults can use this fairly comfortably. In fact the weight limit on the swings is 165lbs, so you AND your kids can enjoy this!
How big is it?
It measures almost 19 feet by 14 feet. The manufacturer recommends you have an area of 26 feet by 34 feet for safety.
What about putting it together?
This is actually pretty straightforward to assemble and it is free standing so there is no need to dig or anchor it into concrete.
Thanks to clear instructions and well packaged hardware, if you are putting this together with someone else you should be able to construct it in 3 to 6 hours depending upon your proficiency with these things.
What is so good about it?
There really is a lot to like about this. It is extremely tough and well made, there are no sharp edges or potentially dangerous corners – as far as small playsets go it is top of the range.
The design is such that it is easy to put together and there are several nice features like rubber hand grips around the swing chains and all potentially exposed ends are capped so it feels really safe.
It is strong and stable and, as it is metal, needs minimal maintenance.
What could be better?
The slide could be a bit better, compared to the rest of this it feels flimsy and the three swings are quite close together – be careful otherwise there could be some collisions!
To sum up:
If you want a small swing set you can enjoy along with your children then this is definitely for you!
It is big enough for adults to join in the fun, and of course this means if you buy with when your kids are young you will get a lot of use out of it.
It is a great long term investment.
MY RATING: 95%
Pros
- Sturdy
- Good for adults and kids
- Easy to assemble
- Free standing
- Safe and well made
Cons
- Slide is a bit flimsy
- Swings are close together
#2 Trekassy Saucer Tree Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those who want a great swing!
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 5.9 x 6.7 x 5.6
- Weight capacity: 440 lbs
- Age range: 5+
- Activities: 2
- Warranty: 90 days
- PRICE GUIDE: $
We’re so used to the straightforward swing, a rectangular slab with two ropes attached on either side. The Trekassy Saucer Tree Swing Set is different in the sense that it is round.
So what do you get?
This is a simple swing set but not basic. Simple in the sense that users only get to swing. It’s not basic because it’s more than just sitting on the seat and swing. Also, the seat is a saucer.
Users also get to hang on the ropes and swing back and forth. It’s a multifunctional swing set that allows you to hang, swing and soar.
Who is it for?
It’s for anyone five years old and above. Notice how I always say users instead of children? That’s because this swing is for everybody–okay, everybody who is at least five years old.
Adults will enjoy this swing, too. Also, multiple children can enjoy the swing at the same time.
How big is it?
The swing is 71 inches high and the swing saucer is 40 inches in diameter. That’s large enough to accommodate a number of children with a combined weight of 350 pounds. However, for those who just intend to use the ropes, it can accommodate 440 pounds.
What about putting it together?
This is a simple swing, so it’s a given that assembly is quite simple too. The components are pre-drilled, which makes it even easier for you to put everything up.
What is so good about it?
If you have a really small area and a small budget, then this is the perfect swing for you and your family.
It’s still fun even if there are not a lot of activities to do. Children can even rest on the saucer, it’s certainly big enough to accommodate multiple children or a couple of adults.
The best part is the price. You really don’t need to spend so much just to have something fun in the backyard.
What could be better?
Perhaps the bar could be sturdier. It wobbles a bit even when the poles are staked to the ground.
In a nutshell:
For small areas and small budgets, this is a perfect yard accessory. It won’t take up space and it won’t hurt your pockets.
MY RATING: 93%
Pros
- Affordable
- Also for adults
- Unique type of swing
- Very easy to assemble
Cons
- Wobbles a bit
- Nuts and bolts rust easily
#3 Fitness Reality 8 Station Metal Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those wanting a huge range of play options
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 13 L x 9 W x 6 H
- Weight Capacity: Around 80lb per station
- Age Range: 3 to 8 years old
- Activities: 8
- Warranty: 2 years on frame, 6 months on other parts
- PRICE GUIDE: $
Ok this might be a bit of a larger size compared to others on this list but I had to include the Fitness Reality Metal Swing Set for abundance of options it will give your kids to play on!
So what do you get?
It is more a case of what don’t you get! This has eight stations – a trampoline, a swing, a monkey bar, a slide, a flying saucer swing, a two person glider, a basketball hoop and a soccer goal and net.
Even better the basketball, football and pump are included!
Who is it for?
This is aimed at children between 3-and-8-years-old and that is pretty accurate. A child of 9 or 10 might be a little too big for this – the monkey bar height is only 5 feet and each station has a weight capacity of 80lbs.
How big is it?
All in all it is 13 feet long by 9 feet wide by 6 feet high. You should also make sure this is at least six feet away from any fences you have.
The trampoline is 36 inches wide, the flying saucer is 32 inches wide and the basketball hoop is 6 feet high.
What about putting it together?
The instructions estimate it will take 1 to 2 hours for two adults to put this together. Whilst that might be a little optimistic it probably isn’t too far from the truth. I’d give yourself at least two hours though and possibly three.
The instructions are reasonably good, but note there is no grounding kit for the swings – you should purchase one to make sure it is stable. There is one for the soccer goal and trampoline though.
What is so good about it?
There are so many play stations! You could easily keep nine small children occupied on this. It literally has something for everyone.
The best thing is, considering all the playstations this is very affordable. Buy a grounding set for the swings and with the 2 inch strong tubular frame this should be pretty stable and there is lots of protection against pinch points so you children should be very safe.
What could be better?
As mentioned you do need to buy a grounding kit for the swings – this should be made clearer.
This probably isn’t going to be your last a lifetime swing set, as it does feel slightly flimsy.
Let’s recap:
This has a huge range of play options, so if you have a large family or lots of kids round to play it will keep them all occupied.
The variety is great and it is really well priced too!
MY RATING: 92%
Pros
- Loads of play stations
- Easy to assemble
- Great price
- Safe
- Great for sport loving kids
Cons
- Need to buy a grounding kit for the swings
- Might not last as long as some other swing sets
#4 Lifetime A-Frame Metal Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those wanting something for older children
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 13.6 L x 10.6 W x 9.3 H
- Weight Capacity: 405lbs
- Age Range: 3 to 12
- Activities: 2
- Warranty: 5 year
- PRICE GUIDE: $$
The Lifetime A-Frame Metal Swing Set is a beast of small playset. Made to the highest spec and boy is it high!
So what do you get?
This is a freestanding swing set, so there is no need to anchor it or cement it into the ground. It has one trapeze bar and two swings.
Who is it for?
It is for 3-to-12-year-olds – but this is really high and incredibly sturdy so it can certainly accommodate a wide age range, keeping kids of all ages happy.
How big is it?
This measures 13.6 feet long by 10.6 feet wide and it is very tall – with the swing bar being 9.3 feet high. The manufacturers recommend an area of 37.4 feet long by 26.9 feet high to be totally safe.
The swings can accommodate a weight capacity of 150lbs each and the trapeze bar 105lbs.
What about putting it together?
Assembly is a little more challenging than some other swing sets on this list, despite there not being that many parts or steps to deal with. This is in part due to the fact is a bit larger and heavier.
Allow around 4 to 5 hours if you are doing it by yourself.
What is so good about it?
As previously noted this is really sturdy and strong and can bear a lot of weight! It is made with heavy strength low alloy pipes and might just be the most heavy duty residential swing set on the market.
Combined with the fact this is really high it should last you a long, long time,
The swings are extremely well made and solid and the chains are covered in durable thick plastic that prevent pinching and will feel safe.
All-in-all it feels like a top quality swing set.
What could be better?
Remember this is very high! Keep a watchful eye if you have a very young child at first, as it is a long way down if they fall off the swing.
There are two types of brackets that hold this together – some for the inside of the frame and some for the outside. They are almost identical and it is easy to get them confused as the instructions don’t make this obvious.
So it all adds up to this:
This is probably the best swing set, in terms of overall build quality, on my list. If you want something that older kids will love and will last practically forever this should be your go to choice.
MY RATING: 91%
Pros
- Very high
- Can take a lot of weight
- Extremely high quality
- Should last for years and years and years…
- Great for older children
Cons
- Might even be too high for very young children
- Brackets might confuse you
#5 Easter Jungle Gym Classic Cedar Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those looking for something built to last.
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 12 x 8 x 7”8
- Weight Capacity: Around 240lbs
- Age Range: 3 to 12 years
- Activities: 2
- Warranty: 15 years
- PRICE GUIDE: $
If you are looking for a great swing set look no further than this Easter Jungle Gym Classic Swing Set – it is simple but wonderfully made and will last for years.
So what do you get?
This is a straight forward two swing and trapeze bar combo. It is made of cedar.
Who is it for?
The optimum age for this is probably around 6-years-old, but at over 7.5 feet high and made of cedar it is big enough and sturdy enough for adults to join in the fun as well. Users of up to 240lbs report using the swings and feeling safe.
How big is it?
It measures 12 feet long by 8 feet wide by 7 feet 8 inches high. Easter Jungle recommend putting this up in an area measuring 24 feet by 20 feet to be ultra cautious and have a comfortable amount of room to play safely.
What about putting it together?
This is a delight to put together. It isn’t hugely complicated, but all the same the instructions are comprehensive and everything you need is provided including high quality brackets, screws and bolts. But note you will need to purchase lumber separately.
You can have the whole thing constructed in 2 to 3 hours.
What is so good about it?
For a reasonably priced small wooden swing set everything is surprisingly high quality, in particular the beam brackets and hardware. They are thick and chunky and feel commercial quality. This is definitely built to last.
The swings are great as they are able to accommodate adults as well as kids and they are easy to adjust as your children grow.
It feels safe and secure and comes with an incredible 15-year warranty!
What could be better?
You do need to sand the wood to make sure the brackets included fit – so bear this in mind. And it should probably be made clear you need to purchase the lumber separately – so make sure you do this.
In short:
It is sturdy, great for adults and kids and really simple to put together. A great playset for a small yard!
MY RATING: 91%
Pros
- Built to last
- Easy to assemble
- 15-year warranty
- Good weight capacity
- Feels really safe
Cons
- Need to buy the wood
- Wood needs to be sanded
#6 Lifetime A-Frame Adventure Playset
BEST FOR…
Those looking for top build quality and play options
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 15 L x 14 W x 11 H
- Weight Capacity: 150lbs per swing and slide. 600lbs for platform.
- Warranty: Five Year
- Age Range: 3 to 12
- Activities: 8
- PRICE GUIDE: $$$
The Lifetime A-Frame Adventure Playset looks great and has some fantastic play options your children will love.
So what do you get?
Quite a lot! A trapeze bar, two swngs, a 9 feet wave slide, a propeller swing, a climbing wall, a cargo net, an activity board and a ship’s wheel with binoculars – phew!
Who is it for?
With so much on offer children of all ages can enjoy this. The manufacturers recommend it for children from 3-to-12, probably suiting those aged 6-to-10 best as some of the features might be a bit much for those under 6 – the slide in particular as really fast!
Such is the size of this though, that even older teens could use the swings, providing the rest of the playset is child free at the time.
How big is it?
It measures 15 feet long by 14 feet wide by 11 feet high. The height is the upper most point of the playset. The deck height is 5 feet. The height of the trapeze swing bar is 7 feet 9 inches.
The manufacturers recommend a safety zone of 30 feet 10 inches by 28 feet 3 inches.
What about putting it together?
I am not going to lie, such is the size and complexity of this it will take a while to assemble and I strongly recommend you have at least one other person on hand to help you.
I’d say with two of you it will take somewhere between 8 and 10 hours to get things up and running.
It is free standing so no anchors or cementing is required.
What is so good about it?
This really does look great – the colors are vibrant and the features are well made and attractive.
All the fittings are of the highest quality and the playstations are sturdy and very durable. It is made of metal that is very strong and will require minimal upkeep.
And this has some great things for kids to play on – the rock climbing wall and cargo net in particular are great.
What could be better?
This is quite big (ironic I know for a round up of the best small swing sets but I just had to include it!) and will take up a bit of space.
Naturally the assembly takes a while, but all of the playstations are really good apart from the little swing that is under the deck/behind the slide which seems a little pointless.
In short:
The price of this is more than the other swing sets on my list – but if you are looking for something solid, built to last and something to keep your kids entertained for hours on end, this is what you want.
MY RATING: 91%
Pros
- Top notch quality
- Loads of great play stations
- Will stand the test of time
- Options for kids of all ages
- Love the climbing wall and cargo net!
Cons
- Rather large
- Swing under decking is kind of pointless
#7 IronKids Premier Fitness Blue
BEST FOR…
Those with really active children.
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 13.5 x 10.3 x 6.4
- Weight capacity: 100 lbs
- Age range: 3 to 8
- Activities: 4
- Warranty: Lifetime on support frame & 6 months for other components
- PRICE GUIDE: $$
This is a great way to channel young kids’ energy. Children can start getting on with the fitness program with the IronKids Premier Fitness Blue. They do so in a really fun way.
So what do you get?
Children can swing, jump and swing with this set. It has a couple of swings and a monkey bar. There is a trampoline and a slide.
Basically, it’s like your very own playground that doesn’t take a lot of space and is not quite complicated. It keeps the child active and improves their motor skills.
Who is it for?
It is for children between three and eight years old. The set has a capacity of 100 pounds.
This is a really amazing swing set for children who are active. Playing in this play set allows them to develop coordination and improve their motor skills.
How big is it?
The dimensions for this set are 13.5 x 10.3 x 6.4 feet. The trampoline is a 42-inch jumper.
What about putting it together?
Okay, it’s quite taxing to put out considering it doesn’t look complicated at all. It would take around four hours to complete this set.
What is so good about it?
It keeps your children active, that’s for sure! There’s so many good things about that. It would be great to keep them away from their gadgets, don’t you think?
There are also a variety of things to enjoy here–the swing, monkey bars, slide and trampoline. Even if it looks simple, the entire thing is actually quite sturdy. Well, maybe not the swing.
What could be better?
The slide is quite flimsy because it’s just made of plastic. Let’s see how this lasts.
Also, for something that looks quite simple, the assembly is really troublesome.
In a nutshell:
This swing set will keep your child or children active, which is great for their physical development. It’s linear, which means it’s great for small spaces.
MY RATING: 90%
Pros
- Keeps children active
- Multiple fun activities
- Great for small spaces
- Sturdy
Cons
- Slide is made of plastic
- Troublesome assembly
#8 Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those looking for something a bit different.
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 11.6 L x 7.75 W x 6.75 H
- Weight Capacity: 486lbs (81lbs per child)
- Age Range: 3 to 8
- Activities: 3
- Warranty: One Year
- PRICE GUIDE: $$
The Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set is something a bit different, with some nicely innovative play features younger kids will really enjoy.
So what do you get?
You get two swings, a climbing wall (in the form of a tree trunk) and a slide. There is also a lookout tree with steering wheel. It is made of durable plastic.
Who is it for?
Officially from 3-to-8 years old, but I think even younger children could enjoy this (providing they have a bit of adult supervision obviously!). At the upper age range it might be a little too small for an 8-year-old.
How big is it?
It measures 11.6 feet long by 7.75 feet wide by 6.75 feet high. It is advised you leave 6 feet of space around the product for it to be entirely safe.
What about putting it together?
Officially it should take two hours, but in reality it will take two of you probably near four hours to get this ready for use.
It needs to be anchored and anchors are included.
What is so good about it?
This is a great size if you want a small backyard playset. It has a couple of swings and some nice play options, but doesn’t take up a large chunk of your yard.
The treehouse is a lovely feature that young children will love to play in and it offers some pretty versatile play options – climbing, standing, swinging, sliding and crawling can all be accommodated.
This is plastic so easy to clean and won’t deteriorate and also all the edges, etc are rounded and smooth so there is less chance of injury.
What could be better?
As it is plastic, if it is in the sun it will get hot pretty quickly.
Also the swings are a little rigid. They are fine when you get used to them, but initial really young children might have a problem balancing.
Let’s rewind and…
Kids who are around 2-to-5-years-old will love this playset thanks to some attractive and innovative play ideas like the treehouse and wall climb.
It packs a lot into a small space.
MY RATING: 90%
Pros
- Innovative play areas
- Nice and compact
- Very versatile
- Easy to clean
- Safe
Cons
- Plastic so gets hot
- Swings are a little rigid
#9 Swing-N-Slide Wooden Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those with limited space.
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 6”10 H x 7”8 W x 8”8 D
- Weight Capacity: 115lb per swing
- Age Range: 3 to 10 years
- Activities: 2
- Warranty: 5 year
- PRICE GUIDE: $$$
The Swing-N-Slide Wooden Swing Set is a throwback to the days of good old fashioned, well made toys! It has a timeless design and simple but effective swings.
So what do you get?
You get two swings and a trapeze bar. Then this also comes with all the wood needed to construct it. The frame is made of cedar
Who is it for?
This is primarily for 3-to-10-year-olds. The bar is slightly lower than some, but at 6 feet 10 inches and supporting up to 115lbs per swing it should be able to support young teenagers if necessary as well. Probably the ideal age is around 4-to-6-years old.
How big is it?
It measures 6 feet 10 inches high by 7 feet 8 inches wide by 8 feet 8 inches deep. The manufacturers recommend a footprint of 26 feet 8 inches by 20 feet 8 inches for optimal safety.
What about putting it together?
This is pretty simple to put together. Give yourself a couple of hours and you should have it up and ready to use with minimal frustration. All pre-cut wood, hardware and swings are provided.
This also comes with four metal anchors to install it into the ground.
What is so good about it?
This is probably the ideal play structure for a small yard – it has a small footprint and the simple design means it is easy to put together.
The swings are comfortable and easy to adjust and feel super safe and it is reasonably priced. The swing beam itself is sturdy and means you can upgrade swings over time as your child grows, or if you have a new baby and want a toddler swing.
What could be better?
You might be deceived by the photos of this as it is smaller than it looks in the pictures! This could be a good or bad thing depending upon the size of your yard I guess.
Whilst the swings support up to 115lbs, if you are the kind of parent that likes to play alongside your children this might not be for you.
In a nutshell:
Classic design. Easy to assemble. Small footprint. Steady and stable swings.
If you have limited space this might just be ideal.
MY RATING: 89%
Pros
- Simple construction
- Small footprint
- All wood is supplied
- Easy to adjust/swap out swings
- Timeless design
Cons
- Smaller than it looks in the photos!
- Swings only support 115lbs
#10 Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those wanting something for very small children
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 5.5 L x 4.9 W x 4 H
- Weight Capacity: 110 lbs (slide) 66lbs (swing)
- Age Range: 1 to 6
- Activities: 3
- Warranty: Two Year
- PRICE GUIDE: $
The hint is in the title here – the Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set is ideal for young children in the 1 to 4-year-old age range.
So what do you get?
This is a 3-in-1 playset – with a slide, a swing and a basketball net. Everything you need to put it together is included.
Who is it for?
This small swing set is definitely aimed at younger children. It is fairly lightweight and perfect for toddlers in the 1-to-4-year-old age range. Remember the swing can hold 66lbs and the slide 110lbs. For older and bigger children it might be a bit too unstable,.
How big is it?
It measures 5.5 feet long by 4.9 feet wide by 4 feet high. It is made of high density plastic and is small enough to use inside or outside.
What about putting it together?
This is very simple to put together. It will take you around 30 minutes – there are minimal steps to construct this and it is not complicated at all.
What is so good about it?
This is a great swing set for small children – it has ladders, small slide, a swing and is a nice way for young children to improve their coordination and stability.
The slide is really low, so even if someone falls off it it won’t help. As mentioned it is simple to put together and easy to clean.
It weighs just 46lbs so it is light and mobile enough to be able to move easily so you can have it outside in the summer and inside in the winter.
It is also pretty cheap.
What could be better?
This isn’t for older children. Even if you have a 5-or-6-year-old who is big for their age it might not be big enough.
Also be aware this is pretty light and it could easily be blown over on a windy day.
All in all:
This is a bright and colorful little playset that really small children will absolutely love. It is easy to assemble and comes at a budget price.
MY RATING: 88%
Pros
- Great for toddlers
- Very simple to put together
- Slide is nice and low
- Easy to move
- Good price
Cons
- Won’t support older or bigger children
- Possibly too light
#11 Super Deal Kids Web Tree Saucer Swing
BEST FOR…
Those wanting something a bit different from a normal swing set
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 7.2 L x 5.3 W x 5.9 H
- Weight Capacity: 220lbs
- Age Range: 3 to 13
- Activities: 1
- Warranty: One Year
- PRICE GUIDE: $
The Super Deal Kids Web Tree Saucer Swing, is a little different from a standard swing set, but simple and great fun.
So what do you get?
You get a swing frame and a 40-inch diameter round saucer swing set that hangs from nylon ropes.
Who is it for?
This really is for any age, although specifically from 3-to-13 years-old. It is easy enough for a toddler to get into but sturdy enough for a young teen to use it and still feel safe as the total weight capacity is 220lbs.
How big is it?
It measures 7.2 feet long, by 5.3 feet wide by 5.9 feet high and as mentioned it has a weight capacity of 220lbs. In addition you need to leave 5 feet clearance at the front and back.
What about putting it together?
The swing frame and swing seat are pretty easy to assemble, you should be able to do this in around an hour.
However note this needs to be cemented into the ground, or it risks flipping over. It comes with anchors to do so.
What is so good about it?
This is a bit different to other options on this list and good for all ages.
It is basically a smart tire swing and young children in particular will really love playing in this.
It is sturdy, easy to build and the ropes are adjustable so you can adjust the height of the tire. It is quite low to the ground as well so nice and easy to get in and out of.
What could be better?
As mentioned you do need to cement this into the ground, so if you can’t do that it isn’t for you.
Whilst this is pretty straightforward to put together the instructions could certainly be better – they are just a sheet of A4 paper.
So in essence:
This is a great option if you want something easy to construct that is a bit of a different small backyard playset. It is great for younger kids in particular.
MY RATING: 87%
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Good especially for younger children
- Adjustable
- Stable
- Easy to get in and out of
Cons
- Needs to be cemented into ground
- Basic instructions
#12 XDP Recreation Blue Ridge Play Swing Set
BEST FOR…
Those on a budget
Product Spec
- Dimensions (feet): 10.6 W x 7.75 D x 6.1 H
- Weight Capacity: 600lbs total
- Age Range: 3 to 8
- Activities: 4
- Warranty: 180 days
- PRICE GUIDE: $
The XDP Recreation Blue Ridge Play Swing Set is really competitively priced and great fun for young children.
So what do you get?
You get two standard swings, a trapeze swing, a glider and a wave slide. If you want to anchor it to the ground you need to purchase ground anchors separately. It is made from high quality plastic.
Who is it for?
This is designed for children from 3-to-8-years-old. It can accommodate six children at once, with a recommended user weight of 100lbs each, so 600lbs in total.
How big is it?
It measures 10.6 feet wide by 7.75 deep by 6.1 feet high. XDP recommend the equipment is at least six-feet from any structures or obstructions such as walls, fences and trees, etc.
What about putting it together?
Most users report they don’t have too much of an issue putting this together – it takes around 2 to 3 hours for a person, on their own, to construct this.
What is so good about it?
There are lots of nice little features such as foam padding for the frame, handrails for the wave slide and PVC chain covers on the swing set.
It is easy to assemble and has a good range of play options considering this is one of the cheapest options on my list.
What could be better?
The swings and the glider are quite close – to the point where children could grab each other quite easily.
Also the ladder steps up to the slide are completely straight – most swing sets with ladders have slanted steps to make them easy for small children to climb so this is somewhat of an oversight.
In a nutshell:
If you are on a budget and want a variety of play options then this is a good choice. A bonus that it is simple to assemble as well.
MY RATING: 85%
Pros
- Great price
- Simple to assemble
- Nice safety features
- Range of play options
- Up to six children can play at once
Cons
- Swings and glider are too close
- Ladder steps are unsafe
In Summary
Best Metal Swing Set
Not just the best metal swing set but the best swing set full stop. It is the Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set.
Best Wood Swing Set
The Easter Jungle Gym Swing Set is fairly simple, but so well made and great fun.
Best Plastic Swing Set
The Little Tikes Tree House Swing Set is a wonderfully different swing set with some innovative features young children especially will love.
Best Swing Set For A Toddler
I think you can guess from the name that the Costzon Toddler Climber and Swing Set is a great option. Ideal for 1-to-4-year-olds.
Best Swing Set For An Older Kid
Measuring over 9 feet high and able to bear 150lbs per swing the Lifetime A-Frame Metal Swing Set comes up trumps here.
I hope you have found my round up of the best swing sets for small back yards of use.
If you do have any questions or are uncertain about anything please feel free to drop me an email and I will do my best to help you.
Don’t forget you can also check out my Reviews Section for individual product reviews. Or you can visit my Site Index for everything on my site on one page.
Useful Resources
How to Choose a Backyard Playset – Washington Post
Which Playset is Right for my Family – Swinging Monkey
7 Features of the Best Swing Sets – Safety.com
