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Oct 16, 2024

The 16 Best Bar Stools, Reviewed by BHG

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. These bar stools will bring new life to your kitchen island. In This Article Better

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

These bar stools will bring new life to your kitchen island.

In This Article

Better Homes & Gardens / Brian Kopinski

Bar stools play an important role in your home. This is where your family grabs a quick breakfast at the kitchen island, where party guests mingle, and you can relax after making a home-cooked meal.“In the majority of my projects, the island is the center of the home, and the bar stools are well used,” says Deb Presson, owner of Presson Interior Design. That’s why it’s important to pick bar stools that are as comfortable as they are stylish.

Your lifestyle is the most important thing to consider before shopping. The busy bee with minimal time to clean should opt for stain-resistant materials, while the homebody needs comfy cushions and supportive backrests.

With Presson’s expert advice, we searched for the best bar stools for every lifestyle, considering material quality, weight capacity, and overall design.

This beautifully designed stool can work with any aesthetic, and comes in five different colors.

Some say the edge of the seat feels sharp when sliding off it.

The Article Rus Counter Stool hits the sweet spot between distinct and versatile, which is exactly why it’s our pick for best bar stool overall. At first, it looks like a simple shaker stool, because it’s the little details that set it apart: the reverse tapered leg, the crescent top rail, and the subtly curved seat.

The five colors—white, blue, green, light oak, and black—range from neutral to a slightly playful, so you can go classic or make your stool a statement piece. The Rus collection also includes a dining chair, in case you want to coordinate one with the other.

The legs and frame are crafted from solid oak, while the seat is made of veneered oak wood. The stool arrives fully assembled, so all you have to do is take it out and take a seat. Dealing with crumbs, dirt, or spills? Instead of using chemical cleaners, all you need is a clean damp cloth.

The only complaint we’ve noticed is that some users think the edge of the seat feels sharp when getting off of it, which could be a slight ding for comfort.

Product Details: Height: 35 inches total; seat height measures 25.5 inches | Material: Oak, rubberwood, plywood, and veneer | Weight Capacity: Not listed

This stool has the look of a classic, high-end stool without the expensive price tag.

All of the necessary tools are included, but you’ll need to assemble this stool yourself.

If you’re sticking to a strict budget, we recommend the Boraam Sonoma Saddle Bar Stool for a number of reasons. For starters, it comes in three colors to fit any design. It features an ergonomic saddle seat for extra comfort and resembles high-end stools for a fraction of the cost.

When looking for inexpensive bar stools, Presson usually steers clear of fabric. “Many times the fabric is a solid, light fabric with no stain protection. These materials do not have the life span that other high-end materials do,” Presson says.

“Going this direction can be OK if you want to follow trends and switch out [bar stools] every couple of years,” she says. For those looking to keep the same bar stools for years to come, the Sonoma Saddle is a great option. The stool features stability stretchers on the base that double as footrests and create visual interest.

Upkeep is minimal and only requires the occasional dusting. For those with kids or messy roommates, you won’t have to worry about stains like you would for stools made with inexpensive fabric.

Lower price tags usually come with a catch. So, what’s the catch here? You’ll need to assemble this stool yourself, which can be a pain for busy buyers. To make it (a little) easier, the box includes all of the tools you’ll need for assembly.

Product Details: Height: 29 inches | Material: Rubberwood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

You can fully customize these stools to fit your kitchen, with over 70 fabric options to choose from.

The open-back design is not cushioned and can lack support.

This pick by Williams Sonoma is fully customizable with over 70 leather and fabric options. For leather options, you can select from vegan, textured pebbled, combo with a clear protective topcoat, soft Tuscan, and distressed Italian.

Other fabric choices include velvet, textured and untextured cotton/linen, and performance fabrics designed to be stain-resistant. In addition, the kiln-dried oak legs come in four wood finishes to complete the look. When designing, keep in mind that higher-end fabrics and leathers will drive up the price.

Splurge purchase can be intimidating, but remember that quality and longevity usually comes with a price tag. “I have found that, in general, lower- to medium-end bar stools lack the quality of higher end bar stools,” Presson shares.

She adds that cheaper bar stools made from materials including rubberwood, hollow metal, top grain leather, and polyester fabric, do not have the same life span as products made from high-end materials. In the end, you usually get your money’s worth out of splurge purchases if they are cared for properly.

If you want a permanent furniture piece, Presson recommends buying from high-end manufacturers who produce their bar stools from the best materials, including solid wood, solid metals, and full-grain leather. This pick is made of kiln-dried oak. Note that the open-back design is not cushioned and lacks support for long periods of sitting.

Product Details: Height: 44.75 inches total; seat height measures 25 inches | Material: Wood legs and over 70 leather and fabric options | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

It has an extra wide cushion for additional comfort.

The total height of 40 inches may be too tall for some counters and dining spaces.

The Jack Metal Frame Bar Stool by West Elm complements your space no matter the style. Simple and elegant, these stools seamlessly blend into any dining space instead of competing with their surroundings. For bar stools with a back, we knew it was important for the stool to be plush and cozy.

This sleek option from West Elm features a large seat cushion and a subtly enveloping back for extra comfort. It even has plastic foot caps to protect your floors, so it’s as practical as it is comfortable. The seat height of this bar stool measures 30 inches, and the total height is 40 inches.

Take your dining space’s design into consideration before purchasing as the tall backrest may not be suitable for every kitchen island. For those wary of fabric stools, this option is perfect because of its customizability. You have the option to select from a variety of shades, fabrics, and leg styles to meet your needs.

Ready to make a statement? Try red stools in Burnt Umber and Distressed Velvet. Wanting a kid-friendly option that easily conceals stains? Try navy stools in Midnight and Chenille Tweed, a performance fabric designed to camouflage wear and tear. Whatever style you’re looking for, there’s an option for you.

Product Details: Height: 40 inches total; seat height measures 30 inches | Material: Linen, twill, velvet, or linen weave | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

They have a clear, protective topcoat to make them fade-,rust-, and corrosion-resistant.

They’re not sold individually.

Cheers-worthy outdoor bars deserve bar stools that are both stylish and weather-resistant. Phi Villa’s Patio Swivel Bar Stools are made to last outdoors with a clear, protective topcoat that is fade-, rust-, and corrosion-resistant.

They have a powder-coated metal frame and textilene sling fabric. This fabric choice is made from polyester and has a PVC coating, which helps make the chairs durable, easy to clean, and able to withstand outdoor elements. It’s also well-ventilated, so your legs won’t get hot and sweaty during the warm months.

The black steel frame features arm and leg rests along with an oversize backrest for ultimate comfort. Each leg features an adjusting knob to help make leg height even while assembling. They also rotate 360 degrees, which is great for keeping an eye on kids playing in the backyard.

While they’re not sold individually, they come in sets of two and three to fit your patio or pool-side needs. The brown fabric can be upgraded to a padded option, and there are also gray and blue options available.

Product Details: Height: 51.4 inches total; seat height measures 29.9 inches | Material: Steel frame and textilene fabric | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

It has one of the highest weight capacities on our list—330 pounds per chair.

There is no back support or cushioned seat with this design.

To foster some great socialization in your space, swivel bar stools are a great choice. The Diwhy Industrial Vintage Bar Stool rotates 360-degrees to facilitate conversation in the kitchen. They have a weight capacity of 330 pounds—tied for the highest of any bar stool on our list.

We love that they’re made of pine wood and iron for a sturdy design. They’re also coated in a protective layer to prevent rust, are fully welded, and do not require assembly. For an extra layer of protection, the legs are capped with rubber to protect your floors from scratches.

The design is both industrial and vintage-inspired, so they’re a great choice for most spaces. Presson says bar stools are often one of the last details added to a design project, so neutral stools are welcome additions.

Though there are many pros, some will miss back support and cushioned seats. However, Diwhy offers five other options for similar bar stools, including one with a wooden backrest, one with an iron backrest, and three with PU-cushioned leather.

Product Details: Height: 20.47 inches | Material: Pine wood and iron | Weight Capacity: 330 pounds

The black leather cover is removable, giving you two styles for the price of one.

The genuine leather will eventually settle and reveal impressions of the brass frame.

Fashion meets engineering in this Rake Brass Bar Stool by CB2. The modern look is achieved by pairing sleek leather with glossy brass. On the fashion side, every angle gives a distinct look and adds a touch of glamor to your dining space. And on the engineering side, the stool appears to defy gravity with its cantilevered frame.

It's a great choice for those who have the urge to switch up their home’s look every few months. Keep the stool as-is with the leather cover for a look that’s modern-meets-industrial. Or, slip the leather cover off for an all-brass look to bring a touch of glam to your kitchen.

Remember, you get two looks with one purchase when considering the high price of this bar stool. When asked about the best materials for bar stools, Presson says she prefers materials that are durable, including metal and leather. “They are easier to clean and stay looking nice longer,” she says.

To maintain these chairs, dust regularly and wipe with a damp cloth to clean. Because the seats are genuine leather, after consistent use, expect the leather to settle and reveal impressions of the brass frame beneath. This is unavoidable due to the structure and material of the stool.

Product Details: Height: 39.75 inches total; seat height measures 30 inches | Material: Brass-plated steel, genuine leather | Weight Capacity: Not listed

The curved seat and backrest make it more comfortable than most wooden options on the market.

Assembly is required for this stool.

West Elm’s Classic Café Walnut Bar Stool offers a simple and traditional design, but its comfort and construction set it apart as a great wooden bar stool. Most wooden stools are deemed uncomfortable due to flat seats and straight-across backrests, but this stool puts comfort first with a slight curve in both areas.

The solid rubberwood frame gives the appearance of solid wood for a fraction of the cost. The warm, rich walnut finish allows these stools to easily incorporate into modern or traditional surroundings, and they complement almost any paint color. You don’t have to worry about this pick clashing with your design project.

If you want to incorporate wood into your kitchen but are worried about keeping up with the latest trends, Presson says bar stools are a great place to start. “When trends change and that wood tone goes out of style, bar stools are a lot easier to change than the island,” she says. Just keep in mind that assembly is required for this pick.

Product Details: Height: 41.8 inches total; seat height measures 30 inches | Material: Rubberwood | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

The sculpted seat neatly slides under the counter and saves space.

Expect subtle shade differences in the leather if purchasing multiple stools, as no two pieces can be produced from a single hide.

Most leather bar stools on the market feature chunky backrests that resemble living room recliners. With its petite, molded seat, Pottery Barn’s Brenner Leather Bar Stool allows you to incorporate leather into your dining space without compromising your chic aesthetic.

This stool’s combination of leather and metal appeals to many different design aesthetics. The sculpted seat, which comes in tan and gray, easily slides under the counter to save you valuable island space. The seat is made from full grain, aniline-dyed buffalo leather, and only one seat can be produced from a single hide.

If you’re planning to purchase multiple bar stools, expect there to be subtle differences in the shading, color, and texture of each stool. These small differences may bother someone wanting a uniform look for their island.

These leather stools require minimal upkeep, making them great for busy homeowners. Just remember to dust routinely and keep out of natural light. Direct sunlight can lighten or discolor leather overtime, so these stools are ideal for dining spaces away from windows.

Product Details: Height: 34 inches total; seat height measures 30 inches | Material: Steel, aniline-dyed leather | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

These stools are sturdy and have a higher-than-average weight capacity of 330 pounds.

Exposure to excessive and direct sunlight can dry out these bamboo stools and cause them to crack.

The Pottery Barn Parisian Woven Bar Stools look like pieces of art and will make you feel like you’re dining in a classic French café. Expect these stools to serve as a conversation starter for all of your future gatherings.

Though they appear delicate, these stools are sturdy. They’re woven with rattan and bamboo and feature an MDF seat board that helps keep the stool’s structure. The intricate, woven details are sealed with vinyl for an added layer of protection.

No detail was left untouched—the semi-open back creates visual interest and provides support. The natural finish adds brightness to your dining space while creating a cool and casual tone. The average weight capacity for a residential bar stool is 250 pounds, but these stools can hold up to 330 pounds.

Bamboo is an ideal material choice for a bar stool if you’re looking for unique, easy-to-maintain pieces that are also durable. However, bamboo is vulnerable to humidity and can crack if left in excessive and direct sunlight. Proper care and placement are needed to ensure these stools last for years to come.

Product Details: Height: 46 inches total; seat height measures 30 inches | Material: Rattan, bamboo, MDF wood | Weight Capacity: 330 pounds

This Scandinavian stool is made from low-maintenance materials and has an under-$100 price tag.

Even though it can be used outdoors, you risk fading if it’s kept in direct sunlight for too long.

The Scandinavian aesthetic has become synonymous with modern design, which makes the Article Svelti Bar Stool the perfect pick if you’re looking for a contemporary look. Offering options outside of the standard neutrals, the stool comes in black, dusty pink, aloe green, and white.

The under-$100 price tag is especially compelling for those on a budget—or those who simply appreciate a good value. (The matching dining chair is even more affordable!). The UV-resistant molded plastic seat and powder-coated metal legs are low-maintenance, given that they’re inherently durable and moisture-resistant.

You don’t have to worry about stains like you do with upholstery, or warping like with wood. In fact, you can use this stool outside, though you should keep it out of direct sunlight to avoid fading. Approximately 15 minutes of assembly is required. When cleaning, all you need to use is a damp cloth—no harsh household cleaners.

Product Details: Height: 46 inches total; seat height measures 29.5 inches | Material: Molded polypropylene and powder coated metal | Weight Capacity: Not listed

It’s an affordable made-to-order option that lets you choose from over 100 fabrics.

Not every fabric is available for every item, which could be a problem if you want to order other pieces.

The Inside brings made-to-order furnishings to the masses, allowing you to design your own furniture with its fabric and wood options. The best part is, the prices are similar to ready-made pieces you’d find in a store. For these reasons, we love the Inside Classic Dining Counter Stool.

You can choose from over 100 fabrics, ranging from patterns by iconic design houses like Scalamandré and Old World Weavers to textiles like linen and velvet in a mix of classic and trending shades. If you’re not sure if you want to commit to a certain option, order a $1 swatch first.

You’ll also get to pick a leg color (natural, espresso, or black), and can opt for pre-assembly for an extra $50. Be aware that not every fabric is available for every item—some are limited to as little as about 30—which you should keep in mind if you’re planning a matching moment with other products from The Inside.

After you place your order, you have 24 hours to request any cancellations or modifications. The good news is that, despite being made to order, the items can be returned within 30 days of delivery. The one-year warranty covers you in case any manufacturer defects pop up.

Product Details: Height: 40 inches total; seat height measures 26 inches | Material: Rubberwood and over 100 fabric options | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

In addition to being affordable, this stool—available in five colors—is compact and lightweight.

The stool isn’t comfortable to sit in for long stretches of time, and you need felt pads to prevent the legs from scratching your floors.

Glamorous, edgy, and modern, the CosmoLiving by Cosmopolitan Ellis Bar Stool is a budget-friendly piece that’s compact enough to fit in any space. It’s also lightweight, so you can move it around as needed with ease.

All of these factors together make it an especially solid option for an apartment. Each of the five colors gives this stool a different personality, from the luxurious gold to the minimalist white (other options include navy, charcoal gray, and black).

The partial back support is a win, as well as how easily this stool can slide under the counter when not in use. Some users do say it could be more comfortable (many recommend a fur or cushion to help), as well as that you need to get felt pads so the legs don’t scratch your floors.

When your stool arrives, you’ll have to do some minimal assembly. Cleaning is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe down with a soft cloth. The one-year limited warranty will come in handy if you encounter any material or craftsmanship failures, but it’s unlikely that you will.

Product Details: Height: 30.5 inches | Material: Metal | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

A durable, vintage-inspired piece, this stool comes in four colors, plus you can add a custom-shaped cushion in one of over 35 colors and patterns.

The hardware could loosen over time, so you have to check it periodically.

Rustic simplicity is a hallmark of the farmhouse style, which is exactly what the Pottery Barn Cline Counter Stool evokes. Unsurprisingly, the curved details are modeled after a vintage piece, making it all the more fitting if you’re looking for something farmhouse-inspired.

This stool is made from durable rubberwood, which is sustainably harvested and kiln-dried to ward off warping, cracking, mildew, and splitting. A custom technique applied by hand is intended to bring out its color (just don’t apply any abrasives or household cleaners—dust it with a soft, dry cloth).

Whether you purchase the stool individually or as a set of two, it arrives partially assembled —you’ll do the rest, which fortunately is an easy lift. The hardware may loosen over time, so you’ll want to check on it and tighten it up periodically.

There are four colors available: antique white, seadrift, charcoal, and antique umber. You can also get a custom-shaped cushion for your stool, choosing from over 35 colors and patterns, all in performance canvas or performance Sunbrella for durability and stain protection.

Product Details: Height: 39 inches total; seat height measures 24 inches | Material: Rubberwood | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

The two wood shades and three cushion colors offer options, while the extra abrasion-resistance testing Article does with their fabrics ensures durability.

You may not be able to push them entirely under the counter because of the armrest height.

Mid-century modern style is less of a trend at this point and more of an interior design staple. The Article Fonra Algonquin Oak Counter Stool transcends aesthetics, making a stylish addition to any kitchen. (If you want the full effect, consider picking up the coordinating dining chairs!)

The frame is made of solid oak; the natural wood gives every stool a one-of-a-kind character. The Y-shaped back and bentwood armrests are hallmarks of the wishbone look, though it’s worth mentioning that the height of the armrests may mean you can’t push them under your counter all the way.

While upholstered stools can be risky, Article’s abrasion-resistance testing should give you peace of mind. Instead of subjecting its fabrics to the industry standard 20,000 rubs, Article does up to 50,000 rubs to make sure they’ll really last.

If something spills on the foam-padded cushion, don’t use any chemical cleaners—just spot clean with a clean damp cloth. You can choose from light and dark wood shades, plus three different cushion colors: light gray, olive green, and charcoal gray.

Product Details: Height: 35.5 inches total; seat height measures 26 inches | Material: Oak, plywood, foam, and polyester | Weight Capacity: Not listed

This French bistro-esque stool features a plastic seat and back for easy cleaning and durability.

The low back may not provide enough support for some.

Not all of the best bar stools have a high weight capacity—in fact, many of them don’t. The Birch Lane Estella Counter Stool, however, can hold up to 500 pounds. Despite this sturdiness, it’s also surprisingly lightweight, so you can easily move it around while cleaning or entertaining.

Designed as a modern take on French bistro chairs that also feels coastal, the stool’s rattan legs add a natural touch, contrasting with the plastic seat and back. The pro of the plastic is that it’s a breeze to clean, only requiring a damp cloth to wipe down.

You don’t have to worry about crumbs getting stuck in crevices or stains ruining upholstery, making this stool super kid-friendly.

With four color combinations to choose from—black and white, gray and white, white and gray, and navy and white stripes—one of them is bound to fit your home’s palette. The low back will tuck neatly under your counter, but some may wish it offered more support.

No assembly is required; just pop the stool out of the box and enjoy. A one-year limited warranty is included against material and workmanship defects, so you can feel confident in your purchase.

Product Details: Height: 32 inches total; seat height measures 24.5 inches | Material: Rattan and plastic | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds

Overall, the Rus Counter Stool by Article is the best bar stool because it’s versatile enough to work with any aesthetic, and also has elevated details that make it feel distinct. You can pick from five colors and even add the matching dining chairs to your home if you’d like.

First, you should know that most stools come in counter and bar height. From floor to seat, bar stools are typically 30 inches, while counter stools are around 25 inches.

You should also consider the total height of the stool, and this includes backrests. The backrests on our list add anywhere from 4 to 16 inches to the total height of the stool. Stools with large backrests can serve as a statement piece for your dining space, but if you want an option that will blend in, consider backless stools.

When picking the material for your bar stool, consider your needs and the intended use of the stools. If you plan to spend a lot of time at your island in these stools, consider options with plush cushions that are stain-resistant.

“I prefer to use materials that are durable, including wood, metal, and leather,” Presson says. “They are easier to clean and stay looking nice longer.” She typically shies away from fabric stools because they’re easy to stain. However, many high end stools are engineered with stain-fighting properties to put your mind at ease.

Material has a large impact on the quality and price of bar stools. While there are plenty of great options at a lower price tag, stools made from solid wood, solid metals, and full-grain leather will last longer than their cheaper alternatives when cared for properly.

The weight capacity of the stools on our list range from 250 to 330 pounds. Most options on the market fall within the 250-to-275-pound range.

Presson shares that there are less regulations for residential furniture, so it can be more difficult to find stools in the higher range. Be sure to specify the desired weight capacity in your search to eliminate options off the bat that aren’t a fit.

It’s important to fill the space beneath your island without overcrowding. Presson likes to leave 5 to 7 inches minimum between each bar stool. This space allows for people to easily move in and out without the stools being too far apart.

“If you are shopping online for bar stools, website pictures can be deceiving on the scale of the products,” Presson says. “Always look at the dimensions.”

Start by measuring your island, and be sure to account for any legs or panels beneath that may take up space. Next, take the width of your bar stool and add 5 to 7 inches. This is the total width needed per bar stool. Divide the length of your island by the total width needed per stool to get a rough estimate of how many chairs you need.

For example, let’s pick bar stools for a 90-inch island. Our pick for Best Modern Stool is 18 inches wide. Add 7 inches to account for the total width needed per stool, then divide the length of the island by that number (25).

90-inch island / 25 inches per stool = 3.6 bar stools

If you prefer to maximize your counter for eating space, choose four stools. If you like more room between stools, go with three stools.

First, determine whether you have a standard countertop or a bar-height counter. Presson says standard countertop height is 36 inches, so stools between 24 and 27 inches work best. She says standard bar-height counters are 42 inches, and stools between 28 and 33 inches are ideal.

Before selecting bar stools, be sure to evaluate your kitchen island and look for pieces under the countertop that may cause you to need shorter bar stools. For example, small, wooden aprons under countertops can make for a tight fit. In this instance, you should go with a shorter option than normal.

The best bar stools go with your lifestyle. Is your island the center of your kitchen? If you spend a lot of time in this space, you’ll want bar stools that put comfort first with plush cushions. Are you looking to add a statement piece to your kitchen? Bar stools are great for bringing the whole look together.

When searching for the perfect bar stool, think about your kitchen’s dimensions and design. This will get you started in the right direction. Knowing what size bar stool you need can cut down your search drastically, so we recommend figuring that out early on in the process.

As we mentioned in the list, consider easy-to-clean materials, including leather and wood, for busy households. When opting for a fabric option, lean towards high-quality fabrics with stain-fighting protection. Trust us. In the end, you’ll be happy you did.

Addie Morton is a freelance writer with three years of experience researching and writing about home design for a variety of brands. For this story, she consulted with interior designer Deb Presson to learn what readers need in a bar stool and factors to consider when shopping for bar stools.

Quincy Bulin is a writer who covers products and home topics, making this story the ideal intersection of her work.