Finding the best swing set for your family takes a lot of time and research. 

As a busy parent or guardian, extra time is something you probably don’t have! 

That’s why we decided to save you the hassle and surveyed dozens of models to find the best backyard swing sets in the following categories: 

•          Wooden swing sets
•          Metal swing sets
•          Affordable swing sets
•          Toddler swing sets
•          Swing sets for older kids
•          Swing sets for small yards 

Using our expertise as a swing set manufacturer, we chose a winner for each category.  

Let’s find out which swing set is best for you! 

6 Best-Rated Swing Sets to Buy This Year  

For this list, we assessed models from swing set brands to find the best children’s swing sets.  

We used the following criteria to grade different models: 

•          Safety/quality features
•          Size and space requirements 
•          Material used
•          Warranty and longevity 
•          Play components
•          Weight capacities
•          Design and aesthetics
•          Upfront cost 
•          Installation
•          Maintenance  

We will provide key features and insight based on our industry expertise and user reviews for each model chosen.  

1. Best Wooden Swing Set – Sparrow’s Nest Play Centre

Key Features 

Size: L 4.8m x W 3.32m x H 2.07m.

Material: Premium Cedar Timber.

Age Recommendation: 3-8 years.

Weight Capacity: A maximum of 68 kgs per child is recommended for play activities designed for individual use. A maximum of 54 kgs. per child is recommended for play activities designed for multiple child use. A maximum of 4 children is recommended for this play set.

Warranty: 12 Months Parts Replacement Warranty.

Price: $1,799 NZD.

Pros  

•           Multi-feature design – Includes swings, slide, and a raised playhouse to encourage active and imaginative play.
•           Toddler- and preschooler-friendly – Specifically designed for younger children aged 3–8, with age-appropriate features.
•           Smooth timber edges – Crafted with safety in mind, helping minimise bumps and scrapes during play.
•           Eco-conscious materials – Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects, reducing the need for chemical treatment.

Cons 

•           Shorter lifespan – Designed for ages 3–8, so older children may outgrow it quickly.
•           Limited capacity – Recommended for up to 4 children, which may not suit larger families or playdates.
•          Basic warranty – 12-month parts replacement warranty is standard but shorter than some competitors.
•          Assembly required – Will require adult assembly and several hours to set up properly.

Photo courtesy of Forest and Frolic

2. Best Metal Swing Set – gobaplay TitanPro Swing Set with Saucer Tent Swing

Key Features

Size: L 3.94m x D 2.56m x H 2.44m x W 2.56m.

Material: Powder-coated Alloy Steel.

Play Components: 3 attachments (including a saucer tent swing).

Age Recommendation: 3+ years.

Weight Capacity: The frame can support up to 272kg, Swings supports total weight up to 113kg.

Warranty: 5 years.

Price: $1,299 NZD.

Pros

• Built for strength and longevity – The powder-coated alloy steel frame offers durability and weather resistance, designed to handle New Zealand conditions year-round.

• High total weight capacity – With a 272kg frame capacity and 113kg per swing, this set can comfortably accommodate multiple children or even a parent and child together.

• Includes unique saucer tent swing – The enclosed swing provides a shaded, cozy nook for relaxation or imaginative play—perfect for both calm time and active fun.

• Modular, versatile design – Comes with three attachment points and heavy-duty carabiners, allowing families to switch out swings and accessories easily as children grow or preferences change.

• Modern, minimal aesthetic – The sleek gunmetal finish blends well with a variety of backyard styles, making it a practical and stylish choice.

• Excellent warranty – Backed by a 5-year warranty, which is generous for a swing set in this category and price range.
  

Cons

• Limited play variety out of the box – While it includes three swing attachments, it doesn’t feature climbing elements or a slide, which some families may want in a full play centre.

• Footprint may be too wide for smaller spaces – At 2.56m deep and nearly 4m long, it may not be the best fit for compact urban backyards.
  

Photo courtesy of gobaplay

3. Best Affordable Swing Set – Kids Swing Set 4-in-1

Key Features 

Size: W 317.5cm x D 183cm x H 193cm.

Material: Galvanised steel tube, carabiners, rings, and chains (with selective plastisol coating), reinforced weatherproof polypropylene fabric, polyethylene rope, EVA reinforced plastic belt seat.

Age Recommendation: 3-8 years.

Weight Capacity: 200kg total, 100kg max per swing.

Warranty:  1 Year Trade Tested Warranty.

Price: $399 NZD on Trade Tested Website. 

Pros

• Excellent value – A full swing set with added sports features for under $400 NZD.
• Includes bonus play accessories – Comes with a basketball hoop and three football gates, offering extra ways to stay active outdoors.
• Durable materials – Galvanised steel frame and reinforced swing components built for year-round use.
• Good weight capacity – Supports up to 100kg per swing, making it suitable for growing kids.       

Cons  

•           Shorter warranty – 1-year warranty is standard but shorter than some higher-end brands.
•           Outgrown quickly – Age recommendation caps at 8 years.
•       Basic design – More functional than stylish; lacks the aesthetic appeal of timber sets or premium modular options.

Photo courtesy of Plum Barbary Trade Tested.

4. Best Swing Set for Toddlers – Plum: Junior Wooden Activity Centre

Key Features 

Size: L 2.60m x W 1.43m x H 1m.

Material: FSC®-Certified Wood.

Age Recommendation: 2+

Weight Capacity: Limit four children at a time (max weight 109 kg).

Warranty: 1 year.

• Price: $376 NZD on Mighty Ape (Plum does not have a New Zealand Website).

Pros:

•          Perfect for little adventurers – Designed for toddlers aged 2+, with low platforms and gentle features suited to early gross motor skill development.
•          Multi-feature play – Includes a baby swing, slide, and climbing platform with sturdy hand grips. 
•          Soft & safe – Super-soft poly hemp ropes are gentle on small hands, while sturdy grips help boost safety and confidence.

Cons:

•          Low height and smaller features – Best suited for toddlers only; older kids will outgrow it quickly.
•         Lower weight capacity – Max weight of 40kg per child may limit use as children grow.
•       Assembly required – Will need adult assembly and tools.
• No New Zealand brand website – Only available through retailers like Mighty Ape, which may limit service or support options.

Photo courtesy of Mighty Ape.

5. Best Swing Set for Older Kids – Free-Climber Jungle Gym & Play Centre

 

 

Key Features 

Size: L 5.23m x  W 1.96m x H 2. 05m.

Material: Premium Timber.

Age Recommendation: 3-10 years.

Weight Capacity: Max User Weight Capacities: Nest swing: 100kg, Belt swing/Trapeze bar: 90kg, Rope ladder/Disc swing/Climbing rope/Climbing net: 50kg, Monkey bar: 80kg, Slide: 50kg.

Warranty: 12 Months Parts Replacement Warranty.

Cost: From $2,299 NZD.

Pros

• Packed with play value – Includes a wide variety of components like a nest swing, climbing net, disc swing, rope ladder, monkey bars, slide, and more – ideal for adventurous kids.
• High weight limits – Supports up to 100kg on the nest swing and strong capacities across most features, making it suitable for older or heavier children.
• Encourages physical development – Great for building upper body strength, coordination, and balance through climbing and hanging activities.
• Suits multiple kids at once – Plenty of components allow for group play, helping avoid sibling squabbles.

Cons:

• Large footprint – At over 5m long, it requires a generous backyard space.
• 12-month warranty – Shorter warranty than some premium brands in this price range.
• Assembly required – Multiple components may take time and effort to put together
• Higher price point – At $2,299 NZD, it’s an investment.

Photo courtesy of Forest and Frolic

6. Best Swing Set for Small Yards – gobaplay TitanFlex Swing Set With Saucer Tent Swing

Key Features 

Size: W 2.05 m, D 2.56 m, H 2.44 m.

Material: Powder-Coated Alloy Steel.

Age Recommendation: 3+ years.

Frame Weight Capacity: 136kg (or 68kg max 2 people), Round Platform (Tree) Swing Capacity: 114kg.

Warranty: 5 years on frame, 1 year on Accessory.

Cost: $759 NZD.

Pros 

• Unique tent swing offers a secluded spot for relaxation and can fit up to two kids. 
• High-quality single swing set frame that is powder-coated and warranted for five years. 
•  Comes with three fasteners with carabiners so you can easily change swings if you have other ones you want to use.
•  Includes a support bar and wide frame for greater stability. 
•  Neutral gunmetal color should fit within the current landscaping of most backyards. 
•  Can be assembled in 1-2 hours. 

Cons 

• Comes with only one play component. 
• Those that desire traditional swings may want to look at other gobaplay TitanPro Swing Sets (or buy a traditional swing separately since this model allows for accessory changes).

Photo courtesy of gobaplay. 

Here’s How to Choose the Best Swing Set for You 

Based on our research, these six swing sets are the best in their respective categories for 2025. 

Now comes the hard part – choosing which one you actually want to spend your money on. 

There are many factors to consider when buying a swing set, but these six deserve your attention the most: 

•          The type of swing set.
•          The age and number of children you are buying for.
•          Safety/quality features.
•          Longevity.
•          Customisation options and accessories.
•          Budget.

To make sure you get the right swing set the first time, check out our guide on How to Choose a Swing Set for Kids. 

We cover each factor above in detail, offering you a free and full roadmap to your family’s perfect swing set!