If you have a home bar and you want it to really feel like a bar setting, you should consider adding some nice bar stools for your guests. As with most furniture items, there are so many options available for bar stools.
Considering the features of counter height bar stools, you can choose different heights, different seating styles, etc.
Apart from the appearance and quality levels, there are also some other buying tips that you should bear in mind.
That is what we aim to do in this post, offering not only reviews of top 30 best counter height bar stools on the market, but also guides on choosing them.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Pick:
#1. Best Overall – UrbanMod 24″ Counter Height
“Sturdy metal structure with easy moving handheld seat design, brings both convenience and relaxing feeling.”
#2. Best With Back – Stone & Beam Alaina
“360 degree swivel eases your time when chatting, simple gray color along with modern back design.”
#3. Best Classic Type – Moriann Swivel Barstool
“Dark metal construction brings industrial feeling, while soft padded seat adds up classic and vintage feeling.”
#4. Best Country Type – Angel Line 43418-21
“White wooden legs, together with light gray soft upholstered seat, perfect for your country decor.”
#5. Best Modern Bench – Christopher Knight Home
“28 inch seat height wide bench, allowing you to have perfect relaxing time on it while coordinating with your modern decor.”
Pick the Best Counter Height Bar Stools
How to Pick Best Counter Height Bar Stools?
Finding the right bar stool can be a challenging task because there are several factors that you have to consider first. Therefore, it is important to have this diverse information with you before you take a step to go purchase the stool.
• Choosing the right height.
For you to determine the best and right counter height bar stool in your location, it is important to have adequate knowledge on the right height. This will be easy when you measure your counter top’s height and from that subtract 10 – 12 inches for the comfortability of you sitting. Always ensures that you pair the height of the stool and tabletop. Make an accurate measurement and if possible, repeat to make sure you are right.
• Determine how many stools fit your space.
With the knowledge of the appropriate height for your stool, you need to know how many stools will fit your counter width. Having too many stools will overcrowd your counter while few will leave you with too much space. Generally, the ideal space between two stools should be 10 inches. Measure the width of your countertop, to determine the appropriate number of stools per counter.
• Consider the style that matches your decor.
After coming up with the right measurements of the stool which is the key part, then consider the style. There is a variety of modern stools that could match the design and the decor in your room. The use of modern stools can bring a mix up of your style making the place look magnificent. For example, if you are looking forward to sitting for a longer period, buy stools that are more comfortable accompanied by a mix of modern and traditional styles.
• Consider adjustable height.
Having an adjustable counter stool is even more versatile. It enables the young children to be able to sit on them as well as the adults because all you require is to adjust the height of any user. Besides, adjustable stools can be of use in multiple areas.
• Choose durable construction materials.
Despite the stool having the best height and style it is important to look at the durability side. It is important to note that buying a stool which material will wear and tear easily will make you go back to purchase another in a short while. Ensure that the material is of great quality and will last longer in use. It is important to consider quality and durability over money, however, it is good to work within your budget.
Best Counter Height Bar Stools Reviews
#1. Best Counter Height Bar Stools – UrbanMod 24″ Counter Height
Editor Rating: 4.9
Pros:
- 24 inch counter height
- Sturdy and stable in using
- Rubber feet to protect floor from scratching
- Handheld hold on the seat for convenient moving
- Large weight capacity
Cons:
- No swivel function
#2. Stackable Bar Stools – Buschman 24 Inch Counter Height Bronze
Editor Rating: 4.8
Pros:
- Powder coating scuffed finish
- Large weight capacity
- Scratch and mar resistant
- Perfect for commercial use
- High quality materials
Cons:
- No back design
#3. Swivel Bar Stools – Stone & Beam Alaina
Editor Rating: 4.8
Pros:
- Swivel smoothly 360 degree
- Sturdy hardwood frame
- Classic solid fabric
- Soft materials
- Come fully assembled
Cons:
- Only gray and black color available
#4. Modern Bar Stools – Best Choice Products
Editor Rating: 4.7
Pros:
- Distressed, powder coated finish
- Contemporary style
- Sturdy metal material
- Non-skid foot caps
- Large weight capacity
Cons:
- No back design
#5. Swivel Cushion Bar Stools – Moriann Swivel Barstool
Editor Rating: 4.7
Pros:
- Suitable for versatile use
- Made of engineer metal and wood
- Plush polyester seat
- Pretty sturdy
- Round shape footrest
Cons:
- No protective cap on feet
#6. Counter Height Chairs With Backs – COSTWAY Tolix Style Dining Stools
Editor Rating: 4.6
Pros:
- Modern copper metal chairs
- Heavy duty steel construction with wood seat top
- Compact shape, stackable for easy storage
- Non-marking feet caps to protect floor
- Unbeatable price
Cons:
- Come with 4 sets
#7. Leather Counter Height Bar Stools – Angel Line 43418-21
Editor Rating: 4.6
Pros:
- Gray upholstered seat with white wooden legs
- 24 inch seat height
- Plush cushioned seat
- Nail head trim
- Perfect one for counter use
Cons:
- No back design
#8. Folding Counter Bar Stools – Linon Home Decor Keira
Editor Rating: 4.6
Pros:
- Dark brown vinyl padded seat
- Foldable when not using
- Pretty stable and sturdy
- Super comfortable in using
- Not wobble
- No assembly required
Cons:
- Too tall for dinner table
#9. Comfortable Bar Stools – Christopher Knight Home
Editor Rating: 4.6
Pros:
- 28 inch seat height
- Feels so comfortable in using
- Pretty sturdy and stable
- Simple style
- Modern and contemporary style
Cons:
- Assembly required
#10. Upholsterd Counter Height Bar Stools – Roundhill Furniture Lotusville
Editor Rating: 4.5
Pros:
- Hand crafted metal dining chairs
- Iron frame legs
- Protective rubber feet cap
- Plastic molded seat
- Retro modern style
Cons:
- Assembly required
#11. Wooden Bar Stools – Glosco Vintage Casual Barstool
Editor Rating: 4.5
Pros:
- Scooped saddle style seat
- Comfortable in using
- Perfect for small space use
- Made of high quality solid wood
- Sturdy and of good quality level
Cons:
- No back and no swivel design
#12. Adjustable Bar Stools – Avery Ajustable Height Barstool
Editor Rating: 4.5
Pros:
- Multiple colors available
- Pretty comfortable and in great quality level
- Look great
- Modern and industrial style
- Soft leather seat
Cons:
- Assembly required
#13. Swivel Bar Stools With Back – Rivet Malida Mid-Century
Editor Rating: 4.5
Pros:
- Unique shape back design to adds up comfy
- Durable polyester fabric
- Thick padded seat
- No assembly required
- Easy to clean with dry cloth
Cons:
- Not a big stool
#14. Natural Wood Bar Stools – Kate and Laurel Godwin
Editor Rating: 4.5
Pros:
- Comfortable and modern design
- Black metal base
- Solid wooden top
- Compatible with different sorts of decor
- No assembly required
Cons:
- Not suitable for large people use
#15. Colorful Counter Hieght Bar Stools – Mestler Bar Stool
Editor Rating: 4.4
Pros:
- Weathered finish
- Sturdy wood frame
- Foot rails set on either side of stool
- Made of solid wood
- Beautiful colors
Cons:
- Assembly required
#16. Counter Height Swivel Bar Stools – Pinnadel Swivel Barstool
Editor Rating: 4.4
Pros:
- Comfortable and stylish with versatile use
- 360 degree swivel
- Faux leather upholstered seat
- Round shaped footrest design
- Engineered wood and metal
Cons:
- Assembly required
#17. Modern Bar Stools – Oster Mid-Century Oxford
Editor Rating: 4.4
Pros:
- 30 inch seat height
- Ideal for daily use
- Commercial fabric covered seat
- Unique design
- Very sleek and durable
Cons:
- Assembly required
#18. Counter Height Stools With Backs – Centiar Counter Height Barstool
Editor Rating: 4.3
Pros:
- Upholstered bar stools seat
- Tubular metal base
- Pretty sturdy and stable
- Protective cap on feet
- Comfortable back design
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy use
#19. Counter Bar Stools With Backs And Arms – Westman Swivel Bar Stools
Editor Rating: 4.3
Pros:
- Swivel functionally
- Classic upholstery seat
- Super comfortable to sit on
- Solid wood, pretty sturdy
- Neutral colors
- Great after sale service
Cons:
- Need tools for assembly
#20. Metal Bar Stools – DHP Fusion Metal Backless
Editor Rating: 4.3
Pros:
- Distressed finish metal legs
- Comfortable wood seat
- Combination between white color and dark wood
- Compact, light weighted and stackable for easy storage
- Durable and great quality level
- Hard rubber protective cap on stool feet
Cons:
- No back design
#21. Walnut Bar Stools – Winsome 94084 Satori Stool
Editor Rating: 4.2
Pros:
- Affordable and unbeatable price
- Sturdy square legs
- matte black or walnut finish
- Contoured top
- Comfortable and sleek design
- Very well built
Cons:
- No back design
#22. White Leather Bar Stools – Lowry Ivory Bonded
Editor Rating: 4.2
Pros:
- Well padded seat
- Ivory bonded leather materials
- Sleek look and style
- Feel comfortable when sitting on
- Pretty sturdy
Cons:
- Assembly required
#23. Leather Swivel Bar Stools – Christopher Knight Home
Editor Rating: 4.2
Pros:
- 360 degree swivel function
- Bonded leather upholstery
- Durable and long lasting wood frame
- Comfortable seat back and arms
- Feels soft and nice when sitting
Cons:
- Assembly required
#24. Brown Leather Counter Height Stools – Modern Square PU Leather
Editor Rating: 4.1
Pros:
- Easy adjust from counter height to bar height
- Modern and contemporary style
- Ideal for kitchen use
- Swivel 360 degree around
- Super easy to put together
Cons:
- Seat is a bit small
#25. Black Counter Height Stools With Backs – Boraam 48824
Editor Rating: 4.1
Pros:
- Solid hardwood construction
- Flared legs and footrest
- Classic casual design
- Super comfortable and stable
- Black faux leather seat
Cons:
- Assembly required
#26. Round Bar Stools – Pinnadel Swivel Bar Stool
Editor Rating: 4.1
Pros:
- 360 degree smooth swivel
- Engineered wood and metal
- Adjustable height to suit counter use
- Comfortable round shape footrest
- Unbeatable price
Cons:
- It gets a bit wobble at maximum seat height
#27. Brown Counter Bar Stools – HomePop K1401-24-E074
Editor Rating: 4.0
Pros:
- Solid wood legs
- Luxury faux leather material on seat
- 24 inch counter height
- Easy to wipe clean
- Good looking
Cons:
- A bit difficult to assemble
#28. Upholstered Bar Stools – Larchmont Barstool Set
Editor Rating: 4.0
Pros:
- Warm wood frame
- Soft padded leather seat
- Super sturdy and stable
- Nice back design
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Assembly required
#29. Wood Counter Height Bar Stools – Nathan James 21302
Editor Rating: 3.9
Pros:
- Backless stool suitable for kitchen counter
- Upholstered seat
- Contemporary design with neutral color
- Easy 15 minute assembly
- Perfect for small space use
- Circular furniture pads to protect floor from scratching
Cons:
- No back design
#30. White Counter Stools – Biony Tan Fabric Counter
Editor Rating: 3.6
Pros:
- Sturdy hardwood frame
- Solid wood legs
- Perfect height for counter use
- Great value for the price
- Pretty light weighted
Cons:
- Assembly required
What Is the Size of the Counter Height?
As there is a variation of exact measurement from one manufacturer to another, a surface height between 34 to 39 inches of a table is said to be counter height. For a height that creates a more casual feel and a blur between the choices of either standing or sitting. With the use of counter height tables, it issues a less formal atmosphere where people can gather together. The counter height is suitable for those people who are socializing because there is a less distinct difference in height between the folks who are sitting down and those who are standing. Therefore, counter height tables tend to be wide in size as they are mostly used in kitchen islands.
There is no clearly defined height for counter height tables or stools, thus the decision is left to the customers to consider what is the right height for their preference. It is worth noting that choosing the right height for your desired counter height tops is not as complicated: by taking measurement and having a clear vision of how you would like the new furniture to look like, reduces the miscommunication and any errors by mere assumptions.
The counter height tables should be accompanied by counter stools with heights complimenting them. When the stools are too low or too high, it becomes a problem in accessing the tabletops or very uncomfortable to sit on. In order to have enough space for your knees under the tabletops, have your counter stools with a 10-inch difference from the countertop. Also, your counter height size should be accessible to your height to avoid struggling when sitting.
What Types of Counter Height Bar Stools Should I Pick?
Like any other piece of furniture, you want to ensure that the bar stool matches your bar well since returning them could be a hassle. For a comfortable experience for your guests, consider things like stool height. The stool height should ideally be 10-12 inches below the bar counter.
When measuring the stool’s height, ensure you measure from the floor to the top of the seat. Don’t make the mistake of measuring up to only the bottom of the seat.
Bar stools not only need to be functional to provide comfort for your guests and family, but they should also ideally match the décor of your bar set up. If for example, you have a stylish modern bar, you wouldn’t want a bar stool that looks like old wooden chairs.
We will go through bar stool options of different styles and unique features. Basic bar seating options can cost you around $35 while some of the high-end ones are in the $120-200 range.
Below we will look at several types of counter height bar stools.
1. Counter Height Swivel Bar Stools
Provide the ultimate comfort for your guests or family with counter height swivel bar stools. They usually consist of a swivel seat that can rotate 360 degrees. These stools are generally quite tall, matching the height of the average home bar counter. They typically have either a wood or metal frame and tapered legs which are connected by a ring footrest. So, they are incredibly comfortable, stylish, and ergonomic.
You can find counter height swivel bar stools in many styles, including ones with and without backs or with an adjustable height mechanism.
Counter height swivel bar stools are not only functional, but they add a classic touch of modern style to your home bar. The average price for a typical counter height swivel bar stool is around $100.
2. Leather Counter Height Bar Stools
Most counter height bar stools can range in height from 29″ to 32″ designed for the counter height of most home bars. Leather bar stools are great because they are incredibly comfortable, and the leather material makes it durable. Leather can handle liquid spills better and easier to maintain.
Leather also complements most home décor styles, so it is quite versatile. You can find leather seats combined with other seating styles like the swivel bar stool.
Even though they provide exceptional comfort and are incredibly stylish, they are quite pricey. Genuine leather stools can cost as much as $1500, so these are great if your budget is not an issue.
3. Swivel Counter Height Bar Stools With Arms
Add a new dimension of comfort to the already very functional and ergonomic swivel counter height bar stool is the Swivel Counter height bar stools with arms. They also range in height between 29″ to 32″ to match the height of most bar countertops.
These chairs are probably the most ergonomic bar stools out there. Not only do you have the swiveling feature, but most have, and with an added armrest, it is the perfect bar stools for hosting guests on Game Night or to have your friends over for a drink. It provides the ultimate comfort experience for your guests.
4. White Swivel Counter Height Bar Stools
Add a modern, light, stylish touch to your bar with a white swivel counter height bar stool. White bar stools have a neutral color, so they match with home décor of most colors. As mentioned previously, swivel counter height bar stools are incredibly ergonomic with the swiveling feature.
They are usually around 29″ to 32″ in height which matches the height of most bar countertops. Most come with footrests for extra comfort and you can find ones with adjustable height mechanisms for added convenience.
5. Counter Height Bar Stools With Backs
Counter height bar stools are great on their own, but they could be made more ergonomic by adding other comfortable features like armrests and backs. If you have back pains or just want extra comfort and support for your guests, counter height bar stools with backs are great.
They are ergonomic, comfortable, and very functional overall. They are especially great if you’re looking to entertain guests for long periods of time such as Game Night.
You can find many different styles of this type of stool. For example, you could find the one with slanted backs, padded cushioned backs, or even adjustable backs.
6. Upholstered Counter Height Bar Stools
If you are using the home bar for both entertaining guests for drinks as well as family events, you can go for upholstered counter height bar stools. They have the comfortable, modern, stylish design of regular kitchen chairs but also the height needed to match the bar counter.
You will often find them with footrests and cushioned seats and backs. Watch out for upholstery material that is easy to clean (all those spills will take its toll!) and durable.
7. Black Counter Height Bar Stools
Black counter height bar stools can be a very chic, stylish addition to your home bar décor. Black is a neutral color that compliments well with most home décor colors. They also don’t get dirty very quickly like white bar stools do (they do, but you can’t see it!). It has similar features of regular bar stools; they range in height between 29’’ to 32’’ for example.
8. Counter Height Bar Stools With Arms
Increase the comfort of your guests and family by getting counter height bar stools with arms. An armrest is a perfect addition to counter height bar stool. Before purchasing them, make sure to measure the stool height correctly (remember to include the seat as well so that you will be seated at a comfortable height at the counter). Ideally, they should be around 10-15 inches below the countertop of the home bar.
9. Counter Height Swivel Bar Stools With Backs
This is by far the best bar stool option. Do you have the swivel feature and a comfortable back? That’s a winning combination of features for the ultimate comfort for your guests. Swivel chairs have a 360 turning angle and counter height bar stools are generally around 29’’ to 32’’ inches in height. It is perfect for those suffering from back pain or if you plan to entertain guests frequently and for long hours.
You can choose many different options for these chairs such as metal or wooden frame, slanted or adjustable back, adjustable height, etc.
10. Cheap Counter Height Bar Stools
If you’re not going to be entertaining guests in your home bar often or for little time, you can check out some of the more affordable counter height bar stools. They would have a height range of around 29’’ to 32’’, have a metal or wooden framework, and usually have footrests. You probably won’t find some of the fancier options like swiveling or slanted backs.
You can find cheap counter height bar stools for little as $35.
11. Counter Height Swivel Bar Stools With Arms
Enjoy game night like a boss with these super comfy, ergonomic bar stools that have armrests and ability to swivel! Features are similar to a regular counter height swivel bar stool; the height is around 29-32’’. Most of the modern counter height swivel bar stools have metal frameworks and a ring footrest. A lot of them also have the option to adjust the height.
12. Wood Counter Height Bar Stools
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated, antique style, you can go for wood counter height bar stools. They are ideal if you have a best price outdoor home bar. Counter height bar stools are all generally 29-32’’ in height, and the same goes for wooden bar stools.
They have the same features as regular counter height bar stools such as footrests, but you won’t find height adjustable ones. Some wooden counter height bar stools have padded cushion for extra comfort.
Depending on the quality of the wood, there is a range of prices. They can be cheap (around $70) to expensive ($160). You can check out the variety of options available at furniture stores that suits your home décor.
13. Brown Leather Counter Height Stools
Brown is another great neutral color for counter height bar stools as they will go with most colors. The leather is also an excellent seating material as it makes it easier to clean spills and is a comfortable soft seating material. Leather is also known to be highly durable so that it will be a good investment.
Brown leather counter height stools have the same features as regular counter height stools, except they have leather seating material. However, if you’re planning of purchasing genuine leather counter height stools, it will set you back quite a bit. Real leather bar stools can cost as much as $1500.
14. Narrow Counter Height Stools
Generally, narrow bar stools don’t exceed 18 inches in width. They are ideal for small spaces. So, if you’re planning on having many guests or don’t have a lot of room in your kitchen or home bar, narrow counter height stools are great.
They are practical, stylish and available with many different features, materials, and options.
15. 24-inch Counter Height Bar Stools
24-inch wide counter height bar stools are great if you want more full bar stools or have plenty of space in your kitchen or home bar. You can find ones that are sturdy for relatively affordable prices. On Amazon, for example, you can find 24-inch counter height bar stools for as little as $25.
16. Padded Counter Height Bar Stools
Padded counter height bar stools are just like regular counter height bar stools except they offer a little more comfortable with padded seating. You can find plenty of different colors, materials, styles, and features that suit the décor of your home bar or kitchen.
The padded seating also makes them versatile enough to be used outside the bar, such as the kitchen or even a living room. When purchasing, be sure to select materials that are easy to clean like leather.
17. Metal Counter Height Bar Stools With Backs
Counter height bar stools made with a metal framework and backs are ergonomic, sturdy and offer a modern touch to your home décor. They are ergonomic like regular counter height bar stools. Most of them will have adjustable height and ringed footrests. The backs are also great for people with posture issues.
You can find lightweight counter height bar stools for affordable prices on sites like Amazon.
18. Colorful Counter Height Bar Stools
Be more experimental, ditch the neutral whites, browns, and blacks and try bolder brighter colors like green, yellow or red. Choose colors that complement well with your existing home bar décor. For example, if the décor is yellow, try purple bar stools. If the décor is red, try black bar stools and vice versa. Mix the colors for a genuinely beautiful bar.
19. Counter Height Bar Stools Without Backs
You can get a simple counter height bar stools without backs for your home bar if you don’t plan on entertaining guests too often for long hours. They will save you money without the extra features such as backs, swiveling, or adjustable height.
You can find these stools in a variety of materials ranging from wood to metal, padded or unpadded, etc. Choose the ones you feel compliment your bar the most.
Counter Height Bar Stools Vs Bar Height Stools?
While navigating through the modern stools department for bar and counter stools, customers get confused as they do not know the difference between both. They are used in the same venue in the same field although these two are a different asset. The main crucial difference is height and their contrasts when it gets to functionality.
Counter height stool
Counter height bar stool has a description of a kitchen island setting, where you can sit behind the counter very comfortably. The stool needs to be tall enough or a little bit higher than the standard height of a restaurant table. The design of the counter height tabletops is ideal for both sitting and standing. Most of the counter table has a measurement average of 34-37 inches, therefore, the stools tend to have a height of 24-27 inches from the ground, for comfortable sitting. These stools enable easy tucking of legs underneath the counter, enabling it to be easy for socializing, dining, and more.
Bar height stool
Bar height stools are versatile stools and provide a good option for bars. This kind of stool tends to offer support to the users’ legs, due to its features of footrest. Bar stools were designed for exclusive use in pubs, bars, and lounges, although recently they have started being used in the kitchen counters.
The height of these stools mainly varies from 29-31 inches from the ground. Bar height stools are the perfect complement for the standard height bar tabletops of 40-42 inches. The height difference between an average bar stool and a bar tabletop should be at least 10 inches, to give your legs and knees plenty of spaces.
Bar stools are six to seven inches taller than counter stools, this makes them ideal to sit on for the traditional bar counters which fall between the ranges of 40-42 inches high. Bar height stools can vary depending on the design they are made in, for instance, stools with backrest and armrest are taller while backless stool has the shortest height.
Usages of Counter Height Bar Stools?
These counter height stools can be used in different areas, below are listed areas that they can be used.
1. Kitchen islands
the counter bar stools have a height that matches the kitchen appliances’ height, as well as the kitchen countertops, hence, reducing the straining when reaching them. Therefore, seating on them makes it accessible to do a variety of tasks in the kitchen.
2. Dining room
these stools provide the best height in accessing the dining table top making them perfect to be used in dining and also for managing little space available.
3. Restaurant tables
they can be used with bar tables and counters. These tops are designed in a way anyone can use them while sitting or standing, while the stools are designed to provide an equal eye level for those sitting and standing. These are convenient seats when hanging out with friends over a diner and enjoying time together.
4. Reception desk
reception counters always tend to have a range of 35-39 inches from the floor which makes it ideal to use counter height bar stools. The stand-up reception desk seating should never exceed 34 inches, while for comfortable sitting there needs to be at least 10 inches to the provision of space underneath the counter. Consequently, their increased use in receptions.
5. Outdoor purposes
to those who love relaxing on the patio or any other place around the home. Counter height bar stools are a great option for these purposes. Since they neither are too tall nor are they short. Making the socialization with friends and family enjoyable.
6. Home bars/ built-in bars
when sipping on your drink in the home bar, it requires the stool with a good height that makes you sit comfortably. The counter height stools provide the best fit for your built-in bars in a less formal atmosphere where several people can gather around.
Top Pick 3 Best Bar Stools of Counter Height
