The Best Bar Stools

The Best Bar Stools

Looking for some barstools? Perfect for sliding under a kitchen island, breakfast bar, or even your in-home, adults-only bar, barstools are designed to work with tall counters in a way that chairs just don't. Although classic barstools tend to be utilitarian, backless, and easily tucked under a countertop for low-profile storage, there are many options out there that will fit your décor and personal style. Whether you have a basement bar or a small countertop space that's begging for a few barstools, we've got you covered. Here are the best barstools for your home.

AmazonBasics Wood Saddle-Seat Counter Stool

When Basic is Best

This set of 2 wooden counter stools from AmazonBasics scores the top spot on our list thanks to a sturdy design and a great price.
Best Overall

Find on Amazon

AmazonBasics furniture might be basic in design, but it is that very design that makes this option so stylish and sturdy. These strong four-legged stools feature a wooden frame that can provide up to 220 pounds of support for all your stool-sitting pleasure. Better yet, the handsome solid wood construction easily fits in with any style of basement bar decor. So whether you’re furnishing your mancave or want a solid stool for your breakfast counter, AmazonBasics keeps you supported.

Pros:

  • High value for the price
  • Available in Black, Walnut, and White
  • Available in 24-inch height and 29-inch height
  • The gently contoured saddle-seat shape is comfortable even during long sitting sessions

Cons:

  • Without a power drill, the assembly can take a long time

Leopard Leather Bar Stools, Set of 2

The Most Comfortable Barstool

Taking the comfy level up a notch, these padded barstools are a hit.
Most Comfortable

Find on Amazon

If you’re looking for a little more luxe in your life, these synthetic leather, armless, modern bar stools hit it out of the park. They’re functional, with a 360-degree swivel and an air-lift handle, and they’re comfortable, with padded backs and spongey seats. With these, you’ll find yourself bellied up to your home bar more often than not.

As an additional bonus, the seat of this barstool is square, creating a unique, modern look. The base is chromed steel and combined with a durable synthetic leather of the actual seat, you’ll find that these barstools are stable and durable.

Pros:

  • Available in several different color options
  • The large seat is wide and padded
  • Rubber ring on the base protects wood floors

Cons:

  • The assembly instructions can be a bit confusing

Counter Height Swivel Bar Stools by Halter

Swivel to Your Heart's Content

For smooth-swiveling action and an easy height adjustment, go with these counter stools from Halter.
Best Swivel

Find on Amazon

If you’ve ever sat at a crowded bar with rigid bar stools to keep you trapped there, you probably wondered what the heck you were doing there in the first place. These immensely comfy barstools from Halter feature a smooth 360-degree swivel that lets you navigate the counter without having to awkwardly shift around noisy bar patrons. It also sports a precise and easy height adjustment lever and a chic modern design.

Pros:

  • Available in numerous color and style options to match any home bar or counter space
  • These PU leather seats are extremely comfortable
  • The metal frame provides sturdy and stable support

Cons:

  • A bit on the pricier side, but worth it for those that want the best in functionality

AC Pacific Modern Industrial Metal Barstool, Set of 2

Industrial Charm

Metal lovers rejoice over these sturdy industrial metal barstools by AC Pacific.
Best Metal

Find on Amazon

Besides giving off that cool timeless industrial look, solid metal barstools have many other advantages. This set of 2 from AC Pacific sports a reinforced sturdiness that can withstand all sorts of wild playtime at the counter. And even with their strength and durability, each barstool weighs only about 11 pounds. Lightweight enough to move around and strong enough to withstand a little banging around, AC Pacific Metal Barstools are worth the investment.

Pros:

  • Available in a range of colors, styles, and sizes
  • Easy to clean
  • Lightweight enough to move around and place outside when the weather is nice

Cons:

  • Some people don’t prefer the hardness of the seat

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should barstools be?

The standard size of the typical barstool is a range between 29 and 32 inches. Typically, the level of a bar is between 41 and 43 inches. If you’re concerned with the correct height for comfort, there are plenty of adjustable barstool options. An adjustable barstool will allow for a more customized fit for whoever is sitting on the stool, which in turn will maximize the comfort level.

What is the best barstool for me? 

The best barstool for you depends on your personal style, where you’ll be using it, who will be using it, and what your preferences are in design and comfort. If you have kiddos that will be using the barstools, you’ll want to find ones that are sturdy, heavy, and don’t easily tip. If you have a small space, you might want low-profile, backless ones that will easily slip under the counter or stack for easy storage. There are options for every budget, style, and use, so finding a barstool that works for you is actually fairly easy. You just need to go into your perfect barstool search with an idea of what you’d like based on all of the above, and go from there.