The 10 Best Bar Stools for Every Style in 2023
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The Winsome Satori Stool is our top choice for its timeless, lightweight design and sturdy construction.
Reese Herrington / Real Simple
Bar stools are a great way to make the most out of your kitchen. You can make the most of your kitchen space by adding bar stools to it. kitchen island Bar stools that are taller than a countertop can be tucked away and used as extra space when guests arrive.
We researched a wide range of options, taking into account factors such as size, comfort, and assembly to help us choose the best bar stools. We also spoke to several interior designers for advice on selecting bar stools: Pamela O’Brien, Principal Designer at Pamela Hope DesignsLisa Tornello, Interior Designer and Founder of Millroad Studio; Lesley Myrick, a luxury interior designer; Yasmine El Sanyoura, a Home Designer at Opendoor; and Lexi Goddard Senior Designer at d+k.
“Bar stools are a great addition to any home with a raised counter and knee space,” says O’Brien. “Family and friends will use them frequently for quick meals, visiting, and daily tasks.”
Your space is also affected by the bar stool you choose. “If the kitchen is the family hub, go comfortable. If you use your kitchen as more of a centerpiece while entertaining, go for lightweight options that can be easily moved,” says Goddard.
Our top pick is Winsome Satori StoolIt can be used in both small and large kitchens thanks to its wooden frame and classic saddle seat. It’s available in three neutral colours and has a lightweight, backless design that allows you to move it around or slide it under counters.
Winsome Satori Stool
Best Overall Bar Stool
Who it’s for: For those who are looking for a simple, functional bar stool with minimal frills at a reasonable price.
Who it isn’t for: People who are looking for a bar stool that has a back.
This timeless wood stool can be paired with any decor. The wide, contoured seat of the saddle stool provides comfort and stability. Because the stool is backless, it’s also great for small kitchens—you can move it around or tuck it under a bar when not in use. The stool is available in Walnut, Natural, and Black.
Price at the time of publication: $45
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Haobo Home Industrial Metal Barstools
The Best Bar Stools for Budget
This set of four barstools in wood and metal doesn’t cost any extra. These sturdy bar stools are sleek and functional. They can be used to supplement or host small gatherings. These stools can also be stacked if you take off the backs. They’re also available in three heights: 24, 26, or 30 inches.
Price at time-of-publish: $148 per 4
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Wayfair Fondren Bar Stool
Best Upholstered Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People who desire stylish and comfortable bar stools.
Who it isn’t for: People with small children, or messy kitchens.
These stylish, upholstered barstools will add a splash of color to your kitchen. There are many customization options available, including the color of the upholstery (coral or royal blue, yellow or pink), and the legs (either bronze or brown). The upholstered seat is cushioned with foam padding and anti scratch pads beneath the legs, to protect your floors.
While upholstered seating can add a touch of elegance to your home decor, they are more challenging to clean, so if you’re worried about kitchen messes or have small children, you may want to opt for a different design.
Price at the time of publication: $399 for 2
Product Details:
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Dimensions: 17.7 x 17.7×37.4 inches
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Material: Wood, steel and plywood. Polyester
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Capacity to Weight: 250 pounds
World Market Round Wood and Metal Adjustable Swivel Stool
Best Swivel Barstool
Who it’s for: People who are looking for a bar stool that is both rustic and adjustable.
Who it isn’t for: People who are looking for a modern stool.
This industrial stool gives your kitchen a rustic look. The stools have a simple, minimalist design thanks to the metal legs and swivel seat made of wood. The seats don’t have a back though and weigh almost 19 pounds, so they’re not great for hours of sitting or redecorating. The retro look and slim design make the seat stand out without being too bold.
Price at the time of publication: $130
Product Details:
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Dimensions: 14 x 24,.5-29.75 inches
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Material: Mango wood, metal
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Capacity to Weight: Not listed
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Flash Furniture Erik Barstool
Best Adjustable Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People who desire a bar stool with adjustable heights.
Who it isn’t for: People who desire a fixed bar stool.
This adjustable bar stool allows you to adjust your stool to fit different heights or to match counter heights. Flash Furniture Erik Bar Stool comes with a handle that adjusts the height of the stool from counter to bar height. There is also a footrest on its base. The stool comes with a vinyl or fabric padded back, and an upholstered seat.
Price as of publication: $133
Product Details:
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Dimensions: 20.5 x 21x 33.5 inches
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Material: Metal, fabric or vinyl
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Capacity to Weight: 330 pounds
Amazon Basics Bar Stool Set
Best Metal Bar Stool
Who it’s for: A budget-friendly option for those who need a sturdy, stackable bar stool.
Who it isn’t for: People who are looking for a stool with a back.
For low-maintenance seating, it’s hard to go wrong with a metal bar stool. Amazon barstools are available in sets of four and are both water- and rust resistant. They can also be stacked to make it easy to store in small spaces. Rubber padding protects floors from scratches and damages. They are available in black or dark grey.
These stools can be used in small spaces and for storage, but if you are going to be using your bar stool for extended periods of time, it is worth investing in stools that offer more support and padding.
Price at time-of-publish: $154 per 4
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CB2 Cesta Rattan Bar Stool
Best Rattan Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People who can afford to spend a lot on a chic, but laid-back bar stool.
Who it isn’t for: For those who are looking for a durable bar stool.
This stylish rattan stool is sure to be a conversation starter. It features a slim silhouette and matte black iron legs. The seat has a natural, neutral look. While this seat is arguably one of the most stylish pieces on our roundup, it does come at a higher cost than most other options, but if you’re willing to splurge then this style can’t be beat.
Price at the time of publication: $349
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AllModern Kody Bar Stool Set
Best Velvet Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People who desire barstools with a luxurious look.
Who it isn’t for: People who need larger barstools.
These velvet bar stools will add a touch of luxury to your home. These stools have a soft velvet-upholstered cushioned bucket seat that makes them the perfect addition to any kitchen. They come in a range of colors including black and gray, as well as brighter colors like sapphire and blush pink. They are narrow compared to other bar stools, so they’re best for smaller counters or rooms rather than sprawling spaces.
Price at time-of-publish: $184 per 2
Product Details:
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Dimensions: 16 x 14.25×32 inches
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Material: Metal, made wood, velvet
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Capacity to Weight: 250 pounds
Pottery Barn Brenner Leather Bar Stool
Best Leather Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People looking for a sleek, smooth, leather bar stool.
Who it isn’t for: For those who are looking for a bar stool that is easy to maintain.
These leather bar stools are sleek and stylish, and can be integrated seamlessly into any space. The one-piece sculpted leather seat features natural markings and variations. You can order the stool individually or as a pair, and at only 8.5 pounds each, you’ll have no problem rearranging your kitchen or bar area as needed.
Remember to keep genuine leather seats out of direct sun and away from detergents.
Price at time published: $458 2
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Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse Almaguer Bar Stool
Best Wooden Bar Stool
Who it’s for: People who need a bar stool that is durable and has back support.
Who it isn’t for: People who prefer mid-century style.
Wood looks great with any style of decor, whether you are looking for a farmhouse look or a simple bar stool. This stool is made of solid acacia and rubberwood and has a traditional look. The stool has a slightly shaped seat and a wide back that allow you to sit comfortably for hours. This option is 21 pounds heavier than the others, so be aware if you need to move your barstools around.
Price as of the publication: $173
Product Details:
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Dimensions: 18.25 x 18.5x 29 inches
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Material: Acacia wood, rubberwood
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Capacity to Weight: 250 pounds
Final Verdict
Our top pick is Winsome Satori StoolThis solid wood bar stool is sleek and can be used in almost any kitchen. The contoured seat is shaped and the backless design allows it to nestle under your countertops. The is a more comfortable bar stool that has a higher back and cushioning. Mercury Row Fondren Bar StoolThe pair is sold as a set and can be purchased in a variety of unique colors.
How to Buy a Bar Stool like a Pro
Size
“Many homeowners choose stools that are too big for their space,” says Tornello. Tornello recommends that you consider the dimensions of your space before purchasing bar stools.
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Width: It is important to have enough space between your stool and the ground for people to be able to sit comfortably. “If the widest part of your stool is 16-18 inches, allow 21-22 inches of space per stool. Allow 24-25 inches for stools whose maximum width is 19-22 inches. If your stool swivels or has arms, leave even more space,” recommends Tornello.
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Depth: “Buyers rarely consider the depth, and this is where a lot of mistakes happen,” says Tornello. When not in use, the stool should be under the counter overhang. However, there must still be enough space behind the stool to allow for a walkway. “For spaces that are narrow, we often recommend stools with no backs that can tuck under the overhang. Saddle stools tend to not be as deep and are a good option for these spaces,” she says.
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Height: No matter if you have a countertop or a bar to measure from, make sure there is enough legroom between your countertop and the top of your stool.
Materials
Barstools are available in many materials, including wood, metal and steel, aluminum, fabric and leather. Personal preference and individual needs will dictate the best material. However, bar stools are “one of the busiest [seats] in the house, and material matters,” says Tornello. For families with young kidsShe suggests stools made of low-maintenance materials, such as metal, wood, woven and leather.
Your use of your stool will have an impact on the type of material you choose. “If you plan to use the stools for eating, easy-to-clean surfaces are best. If you plan to lounge in your stools, soft upholstery and ergonomic shapes are desirable,” says O Brien.
Back
You should consider whether or not you would like a back for your stool. This will affect style and comfort. “Large stools with tall backs and armrests tend to be heavier and more substantial, which can anchor a large island. Backless or lower-backed stools without arms are lighter, easier to move, and might be better for a more minimal look or around a smaller bar area,” says O’Brien.
“If you don’t plan on sitting in the space for long periods of time, then a stool without a back, especially if you have low countertops, is a great option,” says El Sanyoura. However, if the space is used for gatherings of friends and family, I recommend stools with backs.
Assembly
Most bar stools require some assembly, but if you’re not particularly handy, you may want to read through the description and reviews to see how involved any assembly process is. Double-check the tools included and what they are.
Questions to Ask
Is it better to have bar stools that have backs?
Bar stools with backs aren’t necessarily better than backless stools, but it comes down to your usage and design preferences. “A bar stool with a back is arguably more comfortable for long periods of time, so if your bar stool is going to be doing the job of a dining chair (you eat dinner at your kitchen island A stool with a back is best for everyday use, such as when you are using it every day. “If the stool is used more for perching on while grabbing a quick breakfast or having a casual conversation over a glass of wine, a backless stool is just fine.”
Which type of stool is best to use on a kitchen island?
Myrick recommends that you consider the durability of your bar stool. A kitchen island is a place where people often gather and spill food. You should also consider how you plan to use your barstools. You can choose a bar stool with no back if people want to move around for casual meals or parties. However, if people want to sit comfortably during full meals, a stool with a back may be the best option.
“For a modern kitchen styleSturdy stool with metal legs and upholstered seating are my favorites. They are stylish and not too uncomfortable. El Sanyoura said that leather is a good material for the kitchen because it is easy to clean if accidents do happen. Swivel chairs are a great option for guests who want to be able to move around and interact with each other without getting up. If you’re looking for ways to bring warmth into your kitchen, opt for wood stools with a cushion or upholstered seat. Bringing in natural elements like this will help add layers to the kitchen and make it feel more lived in!”
What is the difference between a counter and a bar stool?
Their height is what makes a bar stool different from a counter stool. “Bar stools are for bars, which are typically 42 inches high, and counter stools are for counter height, which is typically 36 inches high,” says O’Brien.
Whatever your bar or counter height is, you need to be able to sit comfortably at it, so “choose a stool that has a seat which is approximately 12 inches lower than your counter,” says O’Brien. Bar stool seats are approximately 30 inches above ground, while counter stool seats are around 24 inches.
We are the experts!
This article was created by Lesley ChenContributing writer: Real Simple Six years of writing experience in lifestyle, commerce and home publishing. This list was compiled by Lesley after she researched bar stools extensively and selected the most popular options based on their size, materials, back vs. without backless and assembly. For expert advice, Lesley spoke to Pamela O’Brien, Principal Designer at Pamela Hope DesignsLisa Tornello, Interior Designer and Founder of Millroad Studio; Lesley Myrick, a luxury interior designer; Yasmine El Sanyoura, a Home Designer at Opendoor; and Lexi Goddard Senior Designer at d+k.
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