Raised Garden Beds: Wood vs Metal, Which Is Better?
By Raimundo Oliveira, founder & editor · Published · Updated · Products hand-picked and curated, updated daily
For gardening without kneeling, choose an elevated bed: the Best Choice Products 72x24x30 galvanized metal bed ($139.99) offers the most space. On a budget, the 4x2x2 ft metal bed ($69.99) is 24 inches deep for root crops.
Our picks at a glance
- Best elevated metal bed: Best Choice Products 72x24x30in Elevated Galvanized Metal Garden Bed — Largest planting area at 30 in tall. (USD 139.99, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best wood bed: Best Choice Products 48x24x30in Elevated Wooden Garden Bed — Elevated wood bed with 16 in of soil depth. (USD 139.99, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best budget deep bed: Best Choice Products 4x2x2ft Metal Raised Garden Bed — 24 in deep for root crops. (USD 69.99, reference 2026-11-12)
- Best garden add-on: Best Choice Products Solar Bird Bath with Fountain — Solar fountain that attracts birds. (USD 59.99, reference 2026-11-12)
Best Choice Products 72x24x30in Elevated Galvanized Metal Garden Bed
A long 72-inch elevated galvanized metal bed at 30 inches high with corner protectors, FHSA-tested materials.
Best Choice Products 48x24x30in Elevated Wooden Garden Bed
A waist-high wooden planter with 16 inches of soil depth and built-in drainage for vegetables and herbs.
Best Choice Products 4x2x2ft Metal Raised Garden Bed
A 4x2x2-foot metal raised bed with 24 inches of depth that holds up to 119 gallons of soil.
Best Choice Products Solar Bird Bath with Fountain
A weather-resistant polyresin pedestal bird bath with a solar-powered fountain that circulates water.
Raised beds make gardening easier on the back and improve drainage. The main choices are elevated or ground-level, and wood or metal.
How we chose
We compared the published specifications, reference prices and listed pros and cons of products in our catalog. We have not tested these products. Prices were checked on November 12, 2026, and can change at the retailer.
Wood
Looks natural and suits patios, but weathers over time. The 48x24x30 elevated wood bed has 16 inches of soil depth.
Metal
Galvanized metal resists rust and lasts longer than wood. The 72x24x30 elevated bed gives the largest planting area.
Ground-level vs elevated
Elevated beds (30 in tall) reduce bending. Ground-level beds like the 4x2x2 ft model hold about 119 gallons of soil and sit directly on the ground.
Before you fill
Pick a level, sunny spot; filled beds are heavy and hard to move.
Frequently asked questions
Is metal or wood better for raised beds?
Galvanized metal lasts longer; wood looks natural but weathers over time.
How much soil does a 4x2x2 ft bed need?
About 119 gallons, as listed for the Best Choice Products metal bed.
Are elevated beds better for bad backs?
Yes. A 30-inch elevated bed reduces bending and kneeling.
General shopping guidance. Verify exact specifications and retailer terms before buying. Our editorial policy