The 9 Best Bar Stools

I swear we use our kitchen island more than our actual dining room table. From homework and coffee to quick dinners, the bar stools are the most used seats in our house. So when one of our old ones finally gave out, I went on a deep dive to find a replacement that was comfortable, looked good, and could handle my kids.

It turns out there’s a huge difference between a stool you just perch on and one you can actually sit in for a while. And you have to get the height right—counter height for a standard kitchen island, and bar height for a taller, dedicated bar area. It’s a bigger decision than I thought.

After a ton of searching and sitting, I’ve rounded up some of the best ones I found. This list has something for every style and budget, from super durable plastic to plush velvet.

 

 

Our Favorite Bar Stool Reviews for 2026

Povison 26” Modern Cutout Back Counter Height Bar Stools (Set of 2)

This set of two from Povison runs about $459, and it looks every bit the price. It has a sleek, modern vibe that doesn’t feel cold or sterile, which I really like. The cutout back and slight arms make it feel like a real chair.

I think this is the perfect everyday kitchen island stool. The seat is wide and comfortable enough to hang out in, and the faux leather is a lifesaver with spills. We all know how often that happens. You just wipe it clean and you’re done.

The Downside: These are definitely an investment. The price per stool is on the higher side compared to a lot of other options out there.

 

 

CB2 Norrie Forest Green Velvet Dining Counter Stool

At $799, the Norrie stool is a statement piece, not just a place to sit. The forest green velvet is so rich and the curved back just hugs you. It feels more like a piece of sculpture than furniture.

If you’re going for a bold, design-forward look in your kitchen, this is it. It has a very dramatic and luxurious feel. The velvet itself is substantial and seems like it would hold up well, as long as you spot-clean messes right away.

The Downside: It’s very expensive, and velvet is not the most forgiving fabric if you have messy eaters. You have to be on top of spills immediately.

 

 

Article Svelti Counter Stool – Pure Black

You can’t beat the price on the Svelti stool from Article at just $99. It’s made from a tough molded plastic that’s designed to resist stains and fading from sunlight, which is great if your kitchen gets a lot of light.

This is my top pick for high-traffic areas, rentals, or even a home bar where things might get a little rowdy. They’re super lightweight, so you can move them around easily, but they still feel totally solid to sit on.

The Downside: It’s a very minimalist, back-to-basics design. There’s no cushioning at all, so it’s not made for lounging for hours.

 

 

Trent Austin Design Rasnick Stools (Set of 4)

For around $310, you get a full set of four stools, which is an amazing deal for families. The seats have a bucket style that’s filled with foam, so they’re surprisingly comfortable for both kids and adults.

The low back offers just enough support without being bulky, and the footrest is key for shorter legs. They were really simple to put together, too. I can see these working perfectly for a busy family that does a lot of hosting.

The Downside: The color selection is pretty limited, so you have to be okay with the rustic brown and black look.

 

 

Trent Austin Design Halima Swivel Stool (Set of 2)

This set of two swivel stools is a bargain at just $99. The best part is the functionality. They swivel a full 360 degrees and you can adjust the height, which is great for finding that perfect spot.

I’d put these at a kitchen counter that doubles as a workspace. The swivel makes it easy to turn and talk to people, and the plush seat is comfortable for longer periods. Plus, the steel base has a rubber ring on the bottom so it won’t scratch up your floors.

The Downside: The style is very basic modern. It’s not going to be a showstopper, but it’s very functional.

 

 

Steelside Triston Bar Stool (Set of 2)

This set of two from Steelside costs about $127. They have a cool, industrial modern look that would fit right into a loft or a kitchen with concrete countertops. The faux leather seat is comfortable enough for a long chat over drinks.

The PU material is also waterproof, which is a huge plus. You don’t have to panic over every little spill. They come in a few different heights and colors, so you can match them to your space.

The Downside: If your home has a more traditional or country style, these might feel a little too industrial and out of place.

 

 

Etta Avenue Braxton Velvet Counter-Height Bar Stool (Set of 2)

For about $180, this set of two brings a lot of glam to the table. The velvet is super soft, and the high back and armrests make you want to settle in and stay a while. It’s a very inviting design.

These would be beautiful at a large kitchen island where you want to add a touch of feminine style. They come in some really nice colors, like blush pink and emerald green, that can really make a space pop.

The Downside: The design is on the chunkier side. You’ll need a good amount of space between each stool so they don’t look crowded.

 

 

Crate & Barrel Ana Grey Counter Stool with Brown Wood Legs

The Ana stool from Crate & Barrel is $449, and it’s built for comfort. The seat and back have a generous amount of foam padding, making it one of the softest, most supportive options on this list.

This is the stool I’d pick for a family that does everything at the kitchen counter—meals, homework, long conversations. The upholstery is pulled tight so it looks neat, and the footrest is placed just right.

The Downside: The price is squarely in the mid-to-high range, so it’s an investment, especially if you need to buy three or four of them.

 

 

Pottery Barn Grove Woven Barstool

At $379, the Grove stool from Pottery Barn brings in a ton of natural texture. The seat is handwoven from rattan, which gives it a really nice, airy feel. It just makes you think of a beach house.

This is perfect for a kitchen with a coastal or modern farmhouse vibe. The woven material is also surprisingly breathable, so it’s comfortable even on warm days. The bar height is great for extra-tall counters or high-top tables.

The Downside: It’s pricey, and the tall bar height means it won’t work for a standard kitchen island, so you have to measure carefully.

 

 

What to Look For When Buying Bar Stools

The very first thing you have to do is measure. Measure from the floor to the underside of your counter or bar. You’ll want about 10-12 inches of space between the seat of the stool and the counter for your legs to fit comfortably.

Then, think about who’s using them. If you have kids, something easy to wipe down like faux leather or molded plastic is your best friend. If it’s just adults, you can get away with fabric or velvet.

Finally, consider the backrest. A stool with a full back is way more comfortable for sitting for long periods. But a backless stool can be tucked completely under the counter, which is great for saving space in smaller kitchens. It’s all a trade-off.