Surface

A surface is a type of buy mode object that has appeared throughout The Sims series. It is primarily used to carry small objects like decorations, books, computers and food that normally cannot be placed on the ground. Sims tend to only be able to use objects on a surface if there is a chair next to it.

In general, surfaces are divided into five categories: counters, tables, end tables, coffee tables and desks, though not all games use the same category names. Counters are required for meals that require preparation. Island counters and dining tables can be used as eating surfaces if a stool or chair is located next to it. Desks can be used for doing homework and for placing computers, although Sims will also use them as eating surfaces if there aren't any other surfaces available. Sims will typically use end tables for placing unpaid bills, newspapers, and magazines on, and may use coffee tables if there are no suitable end tables nearby.

Counters
Counters, just like any surface object, can hold small decorative objects. Although, unlike any other of a different category, small appliances and cash registers can only be placed (with the exception of enabling moveobjects cheat) down and function properly when they're on a counter. Apart from holding things, these objects are also required for the preparation of meals that need preparing. Meals usually end up sitting on them If not or before served. When a pizza is picked up by a sim or munchie bot, they will leave it on a counter If there is no accesible or present desk on the lot.

In The Sims 2 and The Sims 4, dishwashers are required to be placed under a regular counter to work. Although, you can bypass that restriction with the help of the cheat. In The Sims 3, it isn't required, but can be optionally be place down.

Tables
Tables are mainly used to hold a group serving or single plates of a meal that are served at per each available sitting. Up to 6 single plates can be served on the table, which the number of them depends of how many chairs the object is surrounded with. Sims can eat from the tables, as long there is a chair is located next to it facing the right direction.

Just like counters, they can hold small objects, such as (not limited to) candles or clutter items.