Last Updated: May 25, 2023 @ 1:29 pm.

What are the best counter-height bar stools? The answer: it depends on your needs. Looking for leather-like stool with backs? Stools with no backs? Or can swivel? We asked our parent readers for their favorites. Then we did another five hours of research, comparing quality and ease of assembly. Here are the ones we recommend.

FYI: We've been reviewing and rating products for the home and families since 1994. We don't take money or freebies from the brands we review. Our work is 100% reader-supported!


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Best Leather Look

Super easy to assemble
No, these aren't real leather—but they look so impressive! We love the contrasting zig-zag stitching. And these stools are comfortable. Very stylish, yet easy on the wallet.
$112.00 ($56.00 / Count)

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Best Leather Look Bar Stools: Roundhill Furniture Lotusville Vintage PU Leather Counter Height Stools

For the best bar stools with backs, we like Roundhill Furniture’s Lotusville stools. Yes, these are “PU Leather”—that means polyurethane leather. But they look impressive and will probably fools your friends into thinking they are leather. 

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to assemble.

• Sturdy.

• Very comfortable,

• Affordable set of 2.

• Work best for 35-36″ countertops.

• Includes tool for assembly.

• Zig-zag stitching.

What Needs Work

• Packing materials can get messy.

• Color can vary—be sure to open the packages when they arrive if you buy more than one set.

Best Set of 2

Easy on the wallet
Loved these comfy and sturdy bar stools with upholstered cushions. Great for 35 or 36" high counters. 8 different colors. Very easy to assemble.

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Best Set of 2: Angel Line Cambridge Bar Stools

We loved this budget-friendly set of two bar stools with no backs: Angel Line’s Cambridge Bar Stools. We liked the white frames on these stools, which are easy to assemble.

What We Liked

 Comfy!

• Easy to assemble.

• Easy to clean.

• Nice padding.

• Affordable.

What Needs Work

• Not everyone likes the saddle-style for stools.

Best Farmhouse Style

Rustic and beautiful
Wow, these chairs look terrific in real life—very comfortable, faux leather and yes, they swivel. Easy to assemble with a provided wrench. Caveat: just a single chair, not a pair.

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Best Farmhouse Style: Signature Design by Ashley Pinnadel 24” Modern Farmhouse Swivel Counter Height Barstool

For the best farmhouse style chairs that also swivel, we liked this one from Signature Design by Ashley. The Pinnadel is an excellent stool that is super comfy . . . and yes, it swivels! This one was a reader favorite for its overall look and performance. After looking at several bar stools with that farmhouse vibe, we agree—the Pinnadel is a winner.

What We Liked

• Easy to assemble.

• Tool included for assembly.

• Looks amazing!

• Swivel.

• Faux leather upholstery with nailheads.

What Needs Work

• Pricey.

• Just one chair.

• Must re-tighten the screws over time.

Best Adjustable

Non-slip rubber ring on base
If you are looking for bar stools that can be adjusted to give kids a boost—but then lowered for adults, these chairs are excellent. Modern vibe with faux leather. Very comfy.

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Best Adjustable: Modern Square OU Leather Adjustable Bar Stools with Back

Most of the counter height bar stools we researched for this article are fixed in height. That’s great for most folks, but what if you want something adjustable? In case you want to move the bar stools from the kitchen to another table?

For the best adjustable bar stools, we think Modern Square is the best bet—good quality, 16 colors (!) and easy to assemble. And yes, they adjust from 21.5″ to 31.5″ high.

What We Liked

• Modern vibe.

• Easy to assemble.

• Comfortable chairs with backs.

• Adjustable in height.

• Non-slip rubber ring on base.

• Faux leather upholstery.

What Needs Work

• Too narrow for some folks.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money. 

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!

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