Here is an extract from wikipedia :
A coffee table, also called a cocktail table … (from Wikipedia)So it seem that for wikipedia, they are the same.
Cocktail Table History
But looking at history (american and european) and manufacturer definition there are subtle differences depending who you are talking to. The standard definition is a long and low table placed in front of a couch.
It is used for holding books, drinks (including cocktail), teas and of course coffee. In our modern days, they are often use for holding electronic device such as laptop and now, some coffee table can be adjustable so the name lift up coffee table.
It was originally designed as a cocktail table but slowly the phrase coffee table replace the words cocktail table. Today those definition are used and mixed every day.
- Books
- Drinks
- Teas
- Coffees
- Laptop
- …
In reality, the use (cocktail or coffee) of the table does not matter.
What is more important is the look and the price you will be paying.
Cocktail table can be build with wood, metal, wicker, glass, marble, and even plastic, etc.
What have been used will influence the price. Some wood coffee table may be cheaper and certainly marble cocktail table will increase the bill.
But sometimes, it can be hard to choose the right table, the form, the color, the material, the dimension, the height and the robustness should all be considered in the selection.
Since it will mostly be placed in front of a sofa, it must be in harmony with it and the living room.