Best Swing Sets Under $500 (Wooden & Metal)
Best High End
Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Wooden Swing Set
Best Mid Range
Swing-N-Slide PB 8360 Wooden Swing Set
Best Inexpensive
Movement God Metal A-Frame Two Seat Swing Set
Last Updated: 10th Mar, 2023
Are you in the market looking for a budget swing set for your kids? Well, you're in luck today. We've rounded up the best wooden and metal swing sets - all for max $500. We've also included a buyer's guide that highlights different designs, features, and safety measures you should be looking for when purchasing a swing set. So what are we waiting for, let's swing right away!
Looking to keep the kids and the nieces and nephews entertained all afternoon during next summer BBQ? Look no further – an outdoor swing set is just what you need!
If your kids or grandkids are always first to play on the swings when you visit the park, then chances are you have thought about getting the family its own swing set.
So, we have searched the internet high and low looking for outdoor swing sets on the market that are best suited for all tastes and budgets. Think of it like the Swing Set Oscar Awards, where instead of golden statues, we dish out praise and recognition for the best, cheapest, and most activity-rich swing sets that are out there.
From metallic frame swings to Cedarwood jungle gyms, the market is flooded with hundreds of swing set units, and we have taken the hassle out of picking the right one for you. Safety is also an important aspect, your swing set must not only be child-safe, but it must also be able to take the inevitable pounding when the kids are playing on it.
Swing sets come in many sizes and varieties, so sit back, relax, grab a drink and enjoy our small selection of the 5 best swing sets for under $500 to meet any budget or specification.
Our Top Picks for The Best under $500 Swing Sets
- Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Wooden Swing Set- Best Wooden swing set
- Backyard Discovery Big Brutus Heavy Duty Metal Swing Set - Best metal swing set
- Swing-N-Slide PB 8360 - Budget pick (wooden)
- Movement God Metal A-Frame Two Seat Swing Set - Budget Pick (metal)
- Sportspower Ridgewood Me and My Toddler Metal Swing Set - Comes with most activities
1. Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Wooden Swing Set
Specs
- Comes with: two belt swings, 6-foot slide, rock wall ladder, chalkboard
- Assembly time: about 2 hours with two adults
- Dimensions: 10' 3" (W)x 8' 11" (D) x 7' 8" (H)
- Weight: 147 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year on parts, 5 years on wood for rot/decay
- Recommended age: 3 to 10 years
We have voted this one the 'Best Wooden Swing Set under $500' on our list and, boy, is it a good one! Buckley Hill is an action-packed swing set with a 6-foot speedy slide alongside a 2-position swing beam that features two 26-inch belt swings, allowing for 2 kids to swing at any time.
Made of 100% Cedarwood that has been pre-cut and pre-drilled for ease of assembly, this sturdy swing set is made with additional handlebars, enclosed walls and a clear line of sight to the parents to ensure everything is ok.
This is a very safety-focused product. The wood is sanded, avoiding the chance of anyone getting splinters. The ladder is fitted with 4 rock climbing holds to make access into the fort easier, as well as making it more fun to get around! The fort adjoining the slide has a high roof – so no kids banging their heads on low beams. The fort can also double up as a sandbox and contains a built-in chalkboard for even more fun!
The voice narrated, step-by-step, interactive, Bilt app makes the assembly of the swing set quick and painless.
- Includes 6-foot Super speedy wave slide and side rails
- Added safety handles make getting into the Fort easy for everyone
- Built-in chalkboard, mesh enclosed walls and optional sandbox
Note: The product ships in two boxes and some users pointed out that the boxes may not be delivered together. But that's mostly due to delays from logistic partners. You can reach out to the friendly Backyard discovery customer care 800-856-4445 for any assistance.
Bottom line: This swing set is for those who value protection above all else. The climbing holds the chalkboard and the optional sandbox makes this a very varied swing set, with lots of additional ways to keep the kids entertained for hours!
2. Backyard Discovery Big Brutus Heavy Duty Metal Swing Set
Specs
- Comes with: two belt swings and one metal trapeze bar
- Weight limit per swing: up to 150 lbs
- Assembly time: about 1 hour with two adults
- Dimensions: 13' 2" (W) x 9' 7" (D) x 9' 6" (H)
- Weight: 185 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year on parts
- Recommended age: 3 to 10 years
Staying with the Backyard Discovery range, we have given this swing set the honor of being our pick for 'Best Metal Swing Set under $500'. If you're worried about the weather damaging your outdoor swing set, then moving to metallic may be the way to go.
This set's dimensions come in at 9. 5ft x 13ft x 7. 5ft, making it a larger and higher model for those kids who want to take their fun to the next level.
The frame is made from heavy-duty powder-coated steel, an a-frame construction that is weather-resistant and very low in maintenance. This is a fantastic option for those who live in an environment with diverse weather conditions, as with this set, there is no need to worry about cracking, warping, or rotting at all.
Included with the frame are two belt swings and one metal trapeze bar for any little, aspiring acrobats, and like our previous Backyard Discovery selection, it comes supported by the step-by-step interactive Bilt app for ease of assembly.
Although this is one of the pricier options on our list, coming in at just under $490, it does come with anchoring included, so there is no additional purchase necessary to keep your swing set attached to your lawn.
- No additional purchase necessary for anchoring.
- No cracking, warping or rotting
- 2 belt swings and 1 metal trapeze bar included
Bottom Line: A solid swing set, with a focus on maintenance and providing more thrills for the kids who ride on it. Perfect for people who don't want to tend to their swing set and for those who have kids who prefer roller coasters over merry-go-rounds. In all, this is a durable and affordably priced metal swing set that is going to be in your backyard for a long time.
3. Swing-N-Slide PB 8360 Ranger Wooden Swing Set
Specs
- Comes with: two belt swings and one metal trapeze bar
- Weight limit per swing: up to 115 lbs
- Assembly time: about 2 hours with two adults
- Dimensions: 8' 6" (W)x 7' 6" (D) x 6' 8" (H)
- Weight: 90 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
- Recommended age: 2 to 10 years
For those who want a wooden touch to your swing set but don't want to break the bank getting it, here we have our selection for the 'Best Budget Wooden Swing Set'. Priced at under $220, this is a fantastic and affordable option.
With a length of 104", a width of 92" and a height of 82" when fully assembled, the Swing-N-Slide PB 8360 comes with a Plastisol coated chain, preventing any pinched fingers and it also has the bonus of being rust-resistant. The assembly kit comes with 4 metal anchors that screw into the ground, ensuring the frame is sturdy.
This set is ideal for people with less spacious backyards who need a set of swings that will fit easily and safely into a smaller area.
This fun and easy to assembly set features two swing seats and a ring/trapeze combination swing, but the maximum weight is 115 pounds, so this product is strictly for the use of children only, if you wish to keep it in one piece.
- Intended for backyard residential use only
- Plastisol coated chain prevents pinched fingers
- Classic design that is easy to assemble
Bottom Line: This wooden swing set is a great budget option that is idle for those who have small backyards. Good value for money and pinch-proof chains are a great feature for children of all age groups.
4. Movement God Metal A-Frame Two Seat Swing Set
Specs
- Recommended age: 3 to 8 years
- Weight limit per swing: up to 115 lbs
- Comes with: two belt swings
- Assembly time: about 1 hour with two adults
- Dimensions: 8' 5" (W)x 6' 1" (D) x 5' 10" (H)
- Weight: 41.2 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
You've seen the best wooden budget one, now here is the 'Best Budget Metal Swing Set' that we found on the market. This swing set is designed with young children in mind, aged 3-8, with the weight of the seats maxing out at 100 pounds. The swing set passes all performance and safety standards, making it a good option for the more safety conscious.
The frame is perfect for recreational play, boasting a 102' width x 74' depth x 71' height, an ideal fit for those with smaller backyards who also don't want to worry about the maintenance and wear and tear of a wooden swing set.
With a strong steel pole construction, the Movement God lives up to its name by providing a sturdy frame for the free-standing base – which means there is no cement required when assembling. Includes effortless swing brackets with two-way steel end supports for a smoother swinging experience.
- Passes playground performance and safety standards
- Swing brackets have two-way steel end supports.
- Freestanding (no cement required)
Bottom Line: An affordable, all-weather metal swing set that is easy to assemble, easy to maintain, and is idle for when the kids want to blow off some steam in the backyard. Dollar for dollar this the best value metal swing set currently available.
5. Sportspower Ridgewood Me and My Toddler Metal Swing Set
Specs
- Recommended age: 3 to 8 years
- Weight limit per swing: up to 100 lbs
- Comes with: Swing set, mini trampoline system, slide, two-tone slide, sling swings
- Assembly time: about 2 to 3 hour for two adults
- Dimensions: 16' 3'' (D) x 6' 1'' (W) x 5' 11'' (H)
- Weight: 170 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
We finish with this fantastic, Swiss army knife of swing sets, which we have dubbed the 'Most Activity Focused Swing Set' on our list. This is the one that will keep the whole family entertained all summer, nephews, and nieces included.
We love this one because of all the additional accessories and activities that come with it! It boasts two sling swings, a mini trampoline, and a 5' two-tone slide providing hours of fun for up to four kids at a time.
Although the straps and chains may not be as strong as some of the others mentioned on this list, the swing set looks good when it comes to safety, providing foam-padded legs to prevent any nasty accidents.
The robust frame means that parents can swing along beside their kids, allowing you to both enjoy the fun. Older kids won't feel left out as well with the four other play stations included.
- Includes a patented mini trampoline system
- Perfect for younger children
- Added foam-padded legs for safety
Conclusion: This is the perfect swing set to get for toddlers as they can grow and use the bigger play stations later! A strongly built, multipurpose swing set that allows so many activities and fun times your kids will wonder how they got on without it.
Buyer's Guide
Finding the perfect swing set can be tough, considering there are a plethora of options available. While buying a set, a little bit of research can go a long way. That's why we've included this handy buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision.
When choosing an outdoor swing set, there are several factors that you need to consider. We will go over these in the next section.
Key Considerations
<Size>
Swing sets come in a variety of different sizes, allowing for a variety of activities. A large swing set could include 2 swings or more, a slide, a small climbing wall, or even a trampoline, making your outdoor play area much more interesting for the kids. Smaller sized sets will most likely include just the swings and possibly an additional activity.
Size also has a bearing on durability. The larger the frame, the less likely it will be blown over in the wind. Smaller, lighter frames may need protection from the elements and may require additional anchoring.
Some sets even come with mini trampoline, rock ladders, and others, which adds more variety and options for the kids to not get bored.
<Material>
Should it be wood, or should it be metal? The choice could simply be an aesthetic one, but other factors should be considered too. Wooden swing sets are more cost-efficient to make, meaning they can provide more activities for the material used than metal can. Metal, however, is far better suited for being outside, given how it isn't affected by the elements. But the downside to metal swing sets is that it may pose a risk of injury for kids, and they aren't as aesthetically appealing as the wooden counterparts.
Safety is another factor. Metal is a conductor and will heat up if left out in the sun, leading to your swing set heating up to painful temperatures. If you purchase a metal swing set, ensure that it is stored in a shaded area to avoid this happening.
<Weight Limit>
The swing sets come with varying weight limits based on the material used and size. That said, 100 to 140 Lbs per swing is the most common weight limit and is ideal for most kids. However, if heavier kids or even adults are looking to use the swing set, you must opt for the higher weight limit.
<Assembly>
Most swing sets can be set up easily in a short period, and they all come with written instructions to follow. Some, like the Backyard Discovery range, come with an assembly app, making the process even simpler. However, once your swing set is up, you want to make sure it stays up, so make sure the set either comes with 'anchoring' or ensures that pegs are purchased at the same time. Some swing sets come with anchoring included, and instructions will be provided for them.
In most cases, you would take at least a couple of hours to install and set up the swing set fully. And let us remind it's not going to be a one-person job. It's recommended to have at least two adults carry out the installation.
By paying a bit extra, you may opt for expert installation by either Amazon or the manufacturer itself. This will ensure the swing set is precisely installed to the exact specifications.
<Anchoring>
It's highly recommended to securely anchor the swing set so that your kids can play safely. Anchoring the swing prevents it from flipping or moving around while the kids do what they're supposed to do - Swing! A solid anchor ensures the swing set remains footed no matter how vigorously the kids play.
Most manufacturers do not include anchoring hardware along, and it must be purchased separately. Depending on whether you're mounting the set on concrete or grass, you need to pick a suitable anchor. Make sure you choose a strong and sturdy anchor, and there is no harm in putting a few extra anchors just to be on the safer side.
We recommend: XDP Recreation Ground Anchor Kit
<Price>
The swing sets we have listed here are priced within $120 and $490. In our opinion, swing sets around the $200-$400 range offer everything that is needed. Multiple swings, strong materials, easy assembly, and hours of fun. Purchasing additional anchoring may be an issue for some sets, but generally, pegs or other equipment are provided.
With the higher priced units, you get slightly better quality, design, and the number of activities. However, before committing to such a hefty purchase, you need to be sure that your kids are really going to use and maintain it.
Ensure before purchasing your swing set that you are getting value for money and focus your choice on what the kids will enjoy out of it.
Let's Wrap Things Up:
Whether you're looking for kids to get more exercise, make some new friends or just revel in the joy of play, then an outdoor swing set is certainly for you. Choosing the best option for you and your kids can be a daunting task given the huge myriad of choices available in stores and online.
Whatever swing set you to decide to go for, whether it be for Christmas, a birthday, or just for more fun in the summer sun, keep in mind the factors that we posed here. Getting a larger swing set is great, but will you have space, and will you be able to maintain it if maintenance is required. Will it be cost-effective, and will it be sturdy enough not to blow away in a storm? And there is always the question of wood or metal, to boot.
It is our sincere hope that this under $500 swing set buying guide will play a role in your decision making, and it has made that choice much easier and clearer.
Looking to game up your backyard? Check out these awesome yard games:
