The Best Dining Chairs for Every Style and Budget

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No matter your dining room design, we have a dining chair for you.

In This Article

Real Simple / Marcus Millan

Whether you prefer clean lines and minimalist Scandinavian designs or colorful upholstered options that add comfort to every meal, there are so many styles to choose from when searching for the best dining chairs. And although sorting through all the options can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be, which is why we did the heavy lifting for you.

To help you narrow down your search, we compared dozens of options for seat height, materials, comfort, durability, and price. We also consulted with Kate Gray, principal and founder of the interior design firm Hamilton Gray Studios, and Laura Hodges, founder of Laura Hodges Studio, for their insight on selecting the perfect dining room chair to complete your large or small dining room setup.

It has a sleek design that complements most dining spaces, and it’s customizable.

It’s not available in stain-resistant upholstery options.

The Wosla Bristol Dining Chair from Article may look simple in design, but that's part of its genius. While it's simple enough to work in most dining spaces, its thoughtfully curved ladder back still brings a modern edge. Despite its sleek look, the chair doesn't compromise on comfort, so it feels as good to sit in as it looks.

Aside from its style, this dining chair stands out for its customization options. You can choose between a few different upholstery options, like Danish cord, fabric, or leather, and the latter two also include a foam-padded seat for long-lasting comfort. While the fabric option isn't stain-resistant, it has gone through abrasion tests to ensure it can hold up to lots of scrubbing should you need to remove a stain from it. Additionally, you can also select between two wood finishes to match your current furniture style.

This dining chair is made with solid oak wood, but it only weighs 14.5 pounds, so it's easy to move around your space as needed. It also comes pre-assembled, so you can enjoy your new chair right out of the box without any worries about wobbles due to loose screws or assembly issues.

Material: Oak wood, plywood, foam, choice of polyester, leather, or Danish cord for seat | Dimensions: 34 x 20.25 x 22.25 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

These chairs come in some unique color options and are easy to clean.

The seat is on the smaller side.

These dining chairs bring mid-century style to your home at a bargain price. Each set includes four chairs with sleek lines and a curved back for ergonomic comfort. The chairs are made from plastic, which isn't the most glamorous material, but they’re durable and easy to wipe down in case of spills—ideal for thrifty shoppers who don't want to purchase new furniture every few years.

There is some light assembly required to set up each chair, but it's pretty minimal: simply screw the legs to the chair seat, and you're done. Another benefit to these dining chairs is that they come in some fun color options, like dark green, orange, and yellow, that can bring a lot of personality and retro charm to your space. That said, if you have a more traditional design style, you may prefer a less colorful chair in a more classic silhouette.

It's worth noting that these chairs have a seat width of 18 inches and a depth of 16 inches, so they may feel cramped for some folks. If you aren't sure if they'd be a good fit, Amazon's 30-day return policy gives you plenty of time to try these chairs on for size and return them if they don't work for you.

Material: Plastic, wood, and metal | Dimensions: 18.1 x 16.1 x 33 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

This sleek chair combines retro details with a modern silhouette.

It’s not ideal for people seeking a full cane dining chair.

You might know the Cesca Chair by Marcel Breuer with its classic design that took social media by storm this year and for a good reason—the sleek steel frame, ‘70s-era cane weaving, and upholstered seat give it a ton of charm and character. For a more comfortable alternative (just look at that thick, velvet cushion), the Edloe Finch Nora Dining Chair tops our list as the best cane dining chair.

Sold as a set of two, the Nora makes an instant impact in your space, no matter the cushion color you choose. Without arms, the seats tuck seamlessly under any table. The steel frame also allows for a subtle rocking chair effect for maximum comfort.

Material: Solid wood, cane, and steel | Dimensions: 20 x 19 x 33 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: Not listed

This chair is made from high-quality hardwood and is available in a variety of finish options.

You’ll need to use a specific hardwood cleaner to upkeep this chair.

Ideal for small spaces, the Pottery Barn Cline Bistro Dining Chair has a slight silhouette that makes an impact without taking up too much room. Crafted from solid rubberwood, this dining chair is sturdy without being too heavy. The high back offers lumbar support, but the vintage-inspired design keeps it from feeling too bulky.

Because of the solid hardwood construction, you’ll need to avoid harsh chemical and all-purpose cleaners and instead dust with a microfiber cloth or a hardwood-specific cleaner. The darker stains tend to fade if exposed to direct sunlight for too long, but with care, these chairs can last you for years to come.

Material: Solid rubberwood | Dimensions: 20.5 x 20 x 39 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

This chair combines sculptural details with a comfortable seat.

It’s not available in stain-resistant fabrics.

This sculptural dining chair brings loads of style and comfort to your living space. It's upholstered with a polyester blend boucle, which gives it a fuzzy appearance that adds an eye-catching texture and a soft feel against the skin. You can choose between six different color options, but the fabric isn't stain-resistant (although it can be spot-treated). If you live in a messy household, opt for a darker color to conceal hard-to-remove stains.

With a seat width of 24.75 inches, this dining chair is roomy and won't make guests feel cramped while sitting at your table. The seat is also made from polyfoam, which gives a plush yet firm feel for additional comfort and resists sinking over time. Plus, the armrests and back are padded, too, for a cushy dining experience.

While this chair offers a lot in terms of style and function, it is a splurge item and may not fit everyone's budget. However, instead of purchasing a full set, you can also purchase a single chair (or two) to add as an accent piece to your dining space.

Material: Solid and engineered wood frame with foam seat and boucle upholstery | Dimensions: 24.75 x 20.75 x 26.75 inches | Arms: Yes | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: Not listed

These chairs are easy to move and clean and are ideal for small spaces.

They aren’t ideal for people looking for dining chairs with a formal or traditional look.

AllModern’s Moselle Dining Chair (which comes in a set of two) may be made entirely of plastic, but it’s still chic enough to be used as your everyday dining chair. It’s extremely easy to clean—any all-purpose cleaner or wipe will do the trick—so it’s ideal for growing families and people with pets.

A lack of cushioning means that this isn’t the ideal chair for lounging or working long days from home, but these dining chairs are light enough to be easily moved and are also small-space friendly.

Material: Molded plastic | Dimensions: 21 x 18 x 32 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

This durable chair is comfortable to sit in for hours and has a timeless look.

West Elm sells accompanying cushions, but they need to be purchased separately.

West Elm’s Windsor Dining Chair is a great option for a classic, traditional look with its solid rubberwood frame and availability in two timeless colors: black and dune. This timeless design is exactly what makes it perfect for those who want an option that won’t go out of style anytime soon.

While spindle-backed chairs aren’t typically the most comfortable option (they tend to poke and prod in unwanted places), West Elm’s version of the Shaker silhouette makes for a chair that you’ll enjoy sitting in all throughout your meal and even during the lingering conversation after. For more comfort, you can also purchase the accompanying seat cushions.

Material: Solid rubberwood | Dimensions: 20.7 x 17.2 x 33 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

These chairs are sturdy and stylish and make for a great conversation piece.

The finish and seat color options are limited to neutrals.

An iconic design, the Wishbone Chair by Hans Wegner is a favorite among interior enthusiasts, and the Poly & Bark Weave Dining Chair is a nearly identical replica at a fraction of the cost. It’s also our pick for the best wishbone dining chair thanks to its superior quality and solid, kiln-dried wood frame.

The signature high back and rounded arms are comfortable enough to sit in for hours, and the tightly woven cane seat offers plenty of support. This chair comes in black, natural wood, and white and will be a conversation-starting piece you treasure for years to come.

Material: Beech wood, cord-woven seat | Dimensions: 20.75 x 21.5 x 30.5 inches | Arms: Yes | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

These solid wood chairs come in lots of rustic finish options and take almost no time to assemble.

They don’t come with cushions.

If you want to bring a farmhouse vibe to your home, this dining chair set is a great place to start. It comes in a range of weather-worn woodgrain finishes, so you can match your new chairs to your existing furniture while adding rustic-chic style to your space.

These chairs are made of solid Asian rubberwood and have a cross-back design for extra sturdiness. They can even be simply wiped clean to keep them as good as new. They have contoured seats to support your posture but have a smaller seat depth of 16 inches, which some people may find uncomfortable. They also don't come with cushions, so they aren't ideal for long meals.

These chairs require assembly, but the process is quick and straightforward, even if you have little DIY experience. For the price, this chair set offers great durability and quality that will last in your home for years.

Material: Solid Asian rubberwood | Dimensions: 35 x 19.37 x 18.7 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

These stackable chairs are a great way to save space in a smaller home.

It would be expensive to furnish your entire dining table with these chairs.

Ideal for small city apartments or extra seating when hosting, Hay’s About A Chair stacks easily (up to 12 chairs) and looks good enough to leave out all the time. Any spills will roll right off the molded plastic frame for easy cleaning, and the chrome legs keep the chair lightweight enough to move from room to room.

The best part of this chair is the wide seat—at nearly 20 inches wide, shifting and turning is no problem. It's available in plenty of fun colors (we’re partial to the dusty blue and warm red), so you can mix and match the hues for a fun alternative to folding chairs.

Material: Powder-coated steel legs, polypropylene shell | Dimensions: 19.69 x 22.84 x 30.71 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: Not listed

These classic chairs can be used indoors and outdoors.

There are no armrests.

This bistro chair duo from Target adds a European touch to your home. Because they're made from faux rattan, they're waterproof and can be used in both your dining room and on your outdoor patio, so you can make the most of your furniture. Plus, stains and spills wipe away easily from its smooth surface.

These chairs are built with a strong aluminum frame and have a weight capacity of 300 pounds, so they're tough enough to withstand the elements (or rambunctious kids). Despite their sturdiness, each chair only weighs 8.49 pounds, so they're pretty light and easy to move around your home.

The seats of these chairs have a slightly smaller build compared to other chairs we've looked at—each seat is only 16 inches wide by 16.5 inches deep—so they may be a little uncomfortable if you prefer a roomier chair. They also lack armrests, which isn't ideal if you plan on lounging in your chairs or enjoying a slow meal with guests. But if those details aren't dealbreakers for you, these practical chairs are a stylish way to add some extra seating to your home.

Material: Synthetic wicker, faux rattan | Dimensions: ​​35 x 18.5 x 21.5 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

This elegant chair offers good back support and has plastic glides to prevent floor marks.

It’s only available in one upholstery option.

Parsons chairs are known for their minimal look and clean silhouette, which this Birch Lane dining chair set delivers. With a full back and no armrests, it brings a sleek and timeless style to your dining space. Thanks to its foam-filled seat and soft linen upholstery, it's also comfortable to sit on.

A few thoughtful design elements set these chairs apart from the rest, too. The slightly curved back adds some lumbar support to prevent back aches from sitting, and they include plastic glides on the chair legs to avoid scuffing floors. The chair legs are also made from solid rubber wood, which adds a warm (and durable) touch to these chairs.

One thing we wish we could add is more fabric options for upholstery. The neutral flaxen hue will look great in most homes, but people looking for colorful or statement-making chairs may be disappointed in the lack of colorways. Still, these chairs' elegant design and craftsmanship are too good to pass up.

Material: Linen, foam, solid rubberwood | Dimensions: 40.5 x 20 x 27 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

These chairs can be used both indoors and outdoors.

They lack cushions and lumbar support.

Whether you use these chairs in your dining room, your backyard, or your outdoor patio, the powder-coated steel frame can withstand snowstorms and coffee spills. Inspired by the iconic Tolix Marais A Chair from France, these chairs are great for those looking to switch it up from traditional furniture materials like wood or fabric.

While these highly versatile chairs are not the most comfortable option on our list since they don’t have any padding, their ability to stack makes them perfect for short-term and seasonal use.

Material: Powder-coated steel | Dimensions: 20.25 x 17.3 x 33.5 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

This chair comes with stain-resistant performance fabric, and it’s very cushy to sit on.

We wish there were more color options.

Slip-covered dining chairs are a great pick if you want a piece that's upholstered yet easy to clean. This option from CB2 comes in a performance linen weave fabric that's durable and resistant to stains. If it gets dirty, you can remove the slipcover and stain-treat it to keep it looking new. The slipcover also protects the wooden frame underneath, helping you get more use out of your chairs.

This chair has a plush seat cushion to make sitting more comfortable. Its seat width is 19.25 inches, and its depth is 17.5 inches, helping you truly kick back and relax. Because these chairs are a little wider than average, they may not be ideal for cramped dining spaces.

We wished this chair came in some more color options—right now, it's only offered in cream and black, so it doesn't add a ton of personality to your space. Still, its sleek silhouette can blend in with all kinds of decor styles, and it offers impressive comfort for a dining chair.

Material: Linen performance woven fabric, engineered wood | Dimensions: 19.25 x 24.5 x 34.75 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: Yes | Weight Capacity: Not listed

These lightweight chairs have an ergonomic design.

Due to their short height, it may be challenging for some people to stand and sit in these chairs.

Finding an outdoor dining chair that's strong enough to handle all types of weather but also stylish enough for your home is a challenge, but the Wade Logan Arthur Rattan chairs rise to the occasion. With a frame built from aluminum and wrapped in rattan, they can stand up to rainstorms and sunny days alike without showing any signs of wear and fading. The material doesn't hold stains, either, so it's easy to care for with simple spot cleaning.

Another highlight of these chairs is that they're stackable, so they're easy to stow away when the weather gets cold, even if you have a small space. They also have an ergonomic design with their curved backs and integrated armrests for extra comfort (and a sleek touch to their appearance).

With a seat width of 16.5 inches and a depth of 15 inches, these chairs are comfortable enough for most people to sit in, even for longer periods of time. However, since they're shorter in height, some people may find them difficult to sit and stand up from. We also like that they come in a few different finishes, including a modern all-gray option, so you can select the one that best matches your decor scheme. And, perhaps best of all, they arrive fully assembled.

Material: Aluminum, rattan | Dimensions: 21.75 x 23.5 x 28.5 inches | Arms: Yes | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: Not listed

The Article Wosla Bristol Dining Chair tops our list as the best overall dining chair. We can’t get enough of its elegant style, and we like how its seat and upholstery can be customized to match the look of any dining space. For a more budget-friendly option, the Furmax Pre Assembled Modern Dining Chair comes in a variety of colors and has a unique mid-century-inspired look.

Solid wood or metal legs are Gray’s go-to when shopping for dining chairs. She says that painted or upholstered legs don't hold up well, as they’re prone to chipping or tearing.

Metal legs are the most durable, as they are weather-, spill-, and pet-proof. Solid wood legs, however, suit a greater variety of design styles. However, if the legs have a veneer or wood coating (as opposed to solid wood all the way through), they can wear out and peel over time. Metal legs also have much more durability around the joints and a higher weight threshold compared to wood.

Upholstered chairs are preferred by people searching for cushier seating, but they can require more intricate cleaning. If you’re set on an upholstered chair, look for ones made from durable stain-resistant fabrics. Leather is also a solid option for upholstery because it wears nicely, but you should avoid spot-cleaning to prevent damage.

Another option would be to consider slip-covered chairs, like the CB2 Reyes Slipcovered Dining Chair. The slipcover protects your actual chair from damage, and you can toss the cover in the wash to get rid of debris and stains for easier cleaning, which is really helpful for overall durability, Hodges says.

She explains that cleanable fabrics can be either performance fabrics, which are stain-resistant and cleanable, or simply those with a W (water-based) or SW (solvent or water-based) cleaning code. Non-performance fabrics like cotton and wool blends can still be easy to clean, but Hodges notes that delicate fibers like silk and rayon are more challenging to clean.

Lastly, don't neglect the fill material if you’re looking for a cushioned chair. Many chairs are filled with polyester batting, which is the most affordable option but can be prone to flattening. Foam and hollow-fill fiber cushions are also popular options since they’re soft and plush, though foam is the more supportive choice.

The standard seat height for dining chairs is 18 inches. However, with padded seats that will sink or condense when you sit on them, the seat height can go up to 20 inches. The average dining table has a height between 28 and 32 inches, and it's ideal to leave approximately 10 inches for your body between the seat and the table. Any less, and you may find it difficult to cross your legs or maneuver in and out of the seat. More room, while perhaps more comfortable, will leave you at an awkward angle in relation to your plate.

For Gray, selecting armchairs depends on the table. “In tighter spaces I typically avoid arms,” she explains. “Often, I'll just use armed chairs at the ends of the table.” If the chair’s arms are too high, however, they can present difficulties when tucking in the chair or maneuvering your arms while eating. Arms are most helpful for older family members or those who may need something to hold onto when standing or sitting.

Gray recommends evaluating the chairs you already have to gauge your plushness preference. Keep in mind that while dining chairs should be comfortable, they should not be as plush or padded as a recliner or lounging chair.

Hodges says that a seat height between 18 and 19 inches and upper back support are also important considerations when looking for a comfortable chair. “Chairs with a very low back can feel uncomfortable for some people, as can armless chairs or backs that are too tall,” she says. “It’s also really important to check the height of your dining table and the apron underneath to make sure that there’s enough leg room.” Aside from that, check the chair's width and depth before purchasing to make sure it’s roomy enough for your liking.

If you’re looking for a more ergonomic dining chair, consider options with foam-filled cushioned arms and an S-curved back to support your spine during long sitting periods. Also, make sure your chair has a good weight capacity—it must have a weight capacity of up to 250 pounds, but if you need more than that, metal and plastic chairs are the most supportive options.

If you want a certain aesthetic in your space, know that the materials and silhouette of your chair play a role in determining its style. For a traditional look, solid wood, like the Article Wosla Bristol Dining Chair, will be your best bet, but if you want something modern, a metal or plastic chair will give you the vibe you want. To guide your shopping, consider the existing style of your dining room and dining table. For example, If you have a round table with smooth lines, look for modern chairs instead of farmhouse ones to complement your furnishings.

When it comes to styling dining chairs in your space, Hodges prefers going for a chair set instead of individual chairs. “I find that usually a set makes the most sense,” she says. ”The host chairs can be different, though, especially if space is an issue and there’s not enough room for every chair to have arms.” In that case, mixing and matching chair styles can add more flexibility to your space. Combining design styles like modern and traditional can also add some character or be a way to keep a favorite vintage chair or an incomplete family heirloom set, Hodges says.

While there’s no set height or depth that will suit every dining table, the average dining chair is 18 inches high and 20 inches deep. The average dining table is between 28 and 32 inches, leaving approximately 10 inches for your body between the seat and the table for maximum comfort and ease of eating.

Gray actually prefers when the dining chairs don't perfectly match the dining table. “I might not mix too many different woods, but they do not need to be an exact match—or I might prefer a different material entirely,” she says. Pair a metal frame with a wood table for a more industrial look, or opt for upholstered seats for a more formal feel.

Also, consider how often you use your dining table and who will be seated at it. Upholstered chairs will stain easily in a family kitchen that you use daily, while plastic, metal, and wood chairs are easier to clean.

When determining quality, focus on assembly and materials. Self-assembled chairs tend to wear out faster due to incomplete joints or because the screws may need tightening over time. In terms of materials, look for solid materials (rather than a coating or veneer) for the legs to ensure minimal chipping or peeling.

For the chair frame itself, solid woods, plastics, and metals wear much better over time than fabrics (which can be prone to discoloration, tearing, and staining). However, slip-covered chairs or machine-washable cushions can be a longer-lasting alternative if a cushioned seat is non-negotiable.

The exact number will vary based on the length and shape of your dining table. In general, you want about 2 feet between chairs, which translates to roughly four chairs for a 36-inch dining table and six chairs for a 46-inch dining table. If you have a round table, it’ll be easier to squeeze in some extra seats compared to a rectangular one.

While comfort is subjective, most people will find cushioned dining chairs with armrests and lumbar support to be more comfortable than chairs without because they prevent soreness and stiffness that can occur with long periods of sitting. However, it’s also important to consider the dimensions of a chair to maximize comfort—no matter how cushy or supportive a dining chair may be, it will be uncomfortable to sit in if its seat isn’t wide or deep enough.

This article was written by Kate McGregor, a design and market editor who has written about the best in furniture for publications such as ELLE Decor, Architectural Digest, The Expert, and Domino, and Jen Woo, a freelance design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we researched a wide range of dining chairs, keeping in mind dimensions, materials, comfort, durability, design, and price. We also consulted Kate Gray, an interior designer and the founder of Hamilton Gray Studio, a firm based in Brooklyn that specializes in residential projects, and Laura Hodges, an interior designer and the owner of Laura Hodges Studio.