What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re shopping for Shabbos tabletop essentials—or choosing a practical Jewish gift—you’ve probably seen the terms bencher set and zemiros set used interchangeably. And honestly? In many cases, they are describing the same kind of item.
But when you’re actually buying one, the difference matters less in the name and more in the content, format, and how it’s used at the table.
Here’s the simple breakdown—so you can pick the right set for your home or gift confidently.
First: What Is a Bencher?
A bencher (also spelled “bentcher”) is the small booklet used at the table that typically includes:
● Birchas Hamazon (Birkon) — Grace After Meals
● Often: brachos, tefillos, and common tabletop additions (varies by version)
● Sometimes: zemiros (Shabbos songs)
When you see “bencher set,” it usually means a set of multiple benchers (often 6 or more) meant for family + guests at the Shabbos table.
What Are Zemiros?
Zemiros are the Shabbos (and Yom Tov) songs sung at the table—like after the meal, between courses, or during longer meals with guests.
A “zemiros set” is usually benchers that either:
- Include a heavier focus on songs, or
- Are marketed as “zemiros” because that’s what people ask for when they want singing at the table.
So… Are Bencher Sets and Zemiros Sets the Same?
Most of the time: yes, they overlap.
Many products are essentially “benchers with zemiros,” and the label depends on how it’s marketed.
The real difference is usually one of these:
● How much zemiros content is included
● How the set is used at the table
● Format (booklets vs cards vs tabletop stands)
● Nusach options (Ashkenaz / Sefard / Edut Mizrach)
● Readability (font size, layout, tabletop vs handheld)
So the right question isn’t “Which term is correct?”
It’s: Which format and content will your table actually use?
Which One Do You Need? A Quick Decision Guide
Choose a Bencher Set if you want…
A weekly-use essential that’s functional for every meal:
● You want Birchas Hamazon at the table every Shabbos
● You host guests often
● You want a practical gift that gets used immediately
● You prefer something clean, durable, and easy to keep on the table
Best for: Shabbos hosting, housewarmings, newlyweds, families, practical gifting.
Choose a Zemiros Set if you want…
More of the singing experience built into the meal:
● You love singing zemiros and want it easy for guests to join
● You want a fuller Shabbos-table experience
● You want a set that feels “complete” for longer meals
Best for: Families who sing often, Yom Tov hosting, gifts for homes that love zemiros.
Do Many Homes Keep Both?
Yes—and it’s not excessive.
A lot of people keep:
● Benchers for steady, reliable use (everyone needs Birchas Hamazon)
● Zemiros for when guests are over, kids are home, or meals run longer
If you’re gifting, that’s why bencher/zemiros sets are such a safe choice: they fit almost every home style and are used regularly.
What Feldart Shoppers Should Focus On Instead of the Name
When you’re choosing from a collection, here’s what actually matters:
1) Tabletop vs Handheld
● Tabletop: stays standing, easy for guests, keeps the table neat
● Handheld: flexible, easy to pass around, great for smaller tables
2) “Cards” vs “Booklets”
● Kiddush cards / tabletop brochos cards are quick-access essentials
● Bencher/zemiros booklets are the full experience for the meal
3) Nusach Matters
If your household (or gift recipient) prefers:
● Ashkenaz / Sefard
● Edut Mizrach
…choose accordingly so it’s truly useful.
4) Readability (this is a big one)
Look for:
● clear layout
● larger font options when available
● sets designed for real table use, not just decor
Why Lucite & Leatherite Are So Popular for Shabbos Sets
One reason these sets have become modern Shabbos staples is simple: they work.
● Wipeable for real-life spills
● Durable for weekly use
● Looks elevated without feeling fragile or “too fancy to touch”
That combination—practical + beautiful—is exactly what people want when they’re investing in Shabbos essentials or giving a meaningful Jewish gift.
Best Occasions to Gift a Bencher/Zemiros Set
If you’re buying for someone else, these are perfect for:
● Weddings & Sheva Brachos
● Housewarmings
● Engagements
● Hostess / Shabbos invitations
● Bar/Bat Mitzvah gifting
● Yom Tov gifting
It’s one of the rare Judaica gifts that feels special and gets used constantly.
Final Takeaway
If you’re stuck choosing between a bencher set vs zemiros set, don’t overthink the label.
Instead, choose based on:
● the format your table will use,
● the nusach your household needs,
● and whether you want a quick Shabbos essential or a full singing experience (or both).
A well-chosen set becomes part of the rhythm of Shabbos—week after week.