Buzz
Credit: MytourThere's nothing like settling into a plush chair after a tiring day. Whether you enjoy curling up with a captivating novel or streaming your go-to Netflix series, a well-crafted reading chair is a must-have for your bedroom, living area, or workspace.
From club chairs and chaise lounges to slipper, barrel, swivel, or reclining designs, each type suits different needs depending on your comfort and aesthetic tastes.
To help you choose the perfect reading chair, we evaluated top-rated options on the market, considering price, dimensions, materials, design, and customer feedback.
Top Pick
Burrow Armchair
IMAGE: BurrowThis chair is highly adaptable and modular, offering a range of customizable options.
Some users might find the cushions firmer than expected.
The Burrow Block Nomad Armchair provides a cozy spot for reading or enjoying TV shows. As part of the Nomad modular collection, it can function independently or be combined with other Nomad furniture to create a stylish sofa or sectional. You can personalize the fabric and legs with multiple color and material choices. Additionally, it offers three armrest designs and reversible back cushions, featuring both tufted and smooth sides for versatile styling.
The chair's optional upgrades and additional features set it apart. Customers can opt for a matching movable chaise, ottoman, and lumbar pillow. The built-in USB charger, complete with a 72-inch power cord, eliminates the hassle of dealing with tangled cords while relaxing. However, the cushions are made with a sturdy three-layer foam, which might feel too firm for those who prefer a softer seating experience.
Dimensions: 33 by 34 by 35 inches | Upholstery: Options include olefin fabric, leather, or velvet
Top Affordable Choice
Christopher Knight Home Kirkwood Modern Glam Velvet Club Chair
IMAGE: TargetIts contemporary, geometric design makes it visually striking.
The seat is firmer compared to other models.
The Christopher Knight Home Kirkwood Modern Glam Club Chair captivates with its bold geometric design and rich hues. Its stainless steel legs with negative space cutouts and a structured frame add a modern yet elegant touch to any room. Upholstered in 100% soft velvet, the chair comes in black or gray, perfect for a minimalist vibe.
While the club chair’s firmness may reduce its plushness, it’s ideal for those who prefer structured seating. Its sharp angles, luxurious velvet texture, and eye-catching cutouts make it a standout piece, though it may not suit those who favor more flexible seating options.
Dimensions: 33 by 29.75 by 31.5 inches | Upholstery: Velvet
Top Leather Pick
Pottery Barn Raylan Leather Armchair
IMAGE: Pottery BarnThe chair’s leather blends a vintage aesthetic with contemporary styling.
The armrests are somewhat narrow.
Finding a leather chair that perfectly balances rustic charm and modern elegance can be challenging, but the Pottery Barn Raylan Leather Armchair achieves this effortlessly. Its frame, made from kiln-dried solid wood, resists splitting, warping, and cracking. While the frame comes in black or brown, you can choose from 40 leather colors to customize the cushions to match your style.
Over time, the leather’s color will naturally fade and evolve. However, the removable cushions make it easier to maintain the leather’s quality and cushion firmness with regular care. One thing to note is the slim armrests, which might not suit those who prefer wider, more padded armrests for added comfort.
Dimensions: 32 by 27.5 by 34.5 inches | Upholstery: Leather
Top Velvet Choice
Article Sven Grass Green Chair
IMAGE: ArticleThe chair offers a spacious and incredibly soft seating experience.
The chair has a limited selection of color choices.
The Article Sven Grass Green Chair features luxuriously soft velvet cushions, perfect for cozy relaxation. Its fabric is a blend of cotton and polyester, while the cushions combine foam, fibers, and feathers for a supremely plush feel. The included bolster pillows provide additional support, whether you're napping or reading. Built with a kiln-dried solid wood frame and legs, this durable chair is a worthwhile investment priced under $1,000.
One downside is the chair’s limited color options: cascadia blue, grass green, yarrow gold, and pacific blue. While these hues are vibrant, they may not suit all decor styles due to their boldness. Additionally, those seeking even more vibrant or varied color choices might find the selection restrictive.
Dimensions: 34 by 42 by 38 inches | Upholstery: Cotton, polyester
Top Reclining Pick
La-Z-Boy Mercer High Leg Reclining Chair
IMAGE: La-Z-BoyThe recliner boasts a timeless design that complements various decor styles.
The chair is less spacious compared to traditional recliners.
The Mercer High Leg Recliner deviates from the typical oversized, plush recliner. Its rounded silhouette and sloped, rolled arms provide a natural resting experience. However, its structured frame may not appeal to those who prefer more spacious, oversized recliners.
To balance aesthetics and comfort, the chair’s cushions are crafted with high-grade foam and double-picked blown fiber fill. With over 370 fabric and pattern options, including standard and stain-resistant performance fabrics, this recliner offers extensive customization. Its sleek, understated design ensures it fits seamlessly into a variety of living spaces.
Dimensions: 43 by 32 by 38.5 inches | Upholstery: Available in standard and performance fabric
Top Swivel Pick
Albany Park Park Swivel Armchair
IMAGE: Albany ParkThe chair’s 360-degree swivel provides enhanced mobility while seated.
The color and fabric choices are somewhat limited, and its design leans more modern than classic.
The Albany Park Swivel Armchair’s 360-degree swivel feature lets you easily pivot during conversations or while watching TV. Built with a kiln-dried hardwood frame, the chair’s seat cushions combine mattress-quality foam and feathers for optimal comfort and support. Both the seat cushions and side pillows are reversible, ensuring durability and extended use.
It’s worth noting that the chair offers only six color and fabric options, fewer than many other reading chairs available. These choices include vibrant shades like blue and olive velvet, as well as neutral tones such as white bouclé and grey fabric. Additionally, pet-friendly and kid-friendly options are available. The chair’s spacious frame and thick cushions make it ideal for cozying up with pets or children.
Dimensions: 36 by 45.5 by 35 inches | Upholstery: Available in vegan leather, velvet, bouclé, or fabric
Top Compact Pick
Castlery Cammy Armchair
IMAGE: CastleryThe chair’s compact design is ideal for smaller spaces.
Some may find the cushions too firm for their liking.
Measuring 29.7 inches in width and just over 28 inches in depth, the Castlery Cammy Armchair is perfect for cozy reading nooks or compact rooms. Its tweed-style polyester fabric gives it a timeless, vintage appeal, while the sleek metal legs keep it low-profile. The backrest and lumbar cushion provide additional comfort and support.
The chair’s high, structured armrests offer a comfortable place to rest your arms without overwhelming you. However, the foam-filled cushions give it a firmer feel, which might not suit those who prefer softer seating. Available in pine green, tan, and mustard, you can also request free swatches to help choose the perfect color.
Dimensions: 34.6 by 29.7 by 28.5 inches | Upholstery: Polyester
Top Oversized Pick
West Elm Harmony Chair and a Half
IMAGE: West ElmThe chair’s spacious seat is perfect for sharing or lounging.
It may lack the same level of support as smaller chairs.
The West Elm Harmony Chair and a Half spans 55 inches in width, making it the largest chair on our list. Its oversized seat is perfect for sharing or curling up during a cozy reading session. The back cushions, filled with polyester, duck feathers, and duck down, offer a plush feel, while the chair is built with a sturdy hardwood frame and wooden legs.
Like many oversized chairs, this one may lack the structure needed for strong back support. Designed primarily for lounging in various positions, sitting upright might feel less comfortable. However, if you prioritize space and versatility, you’ll appreciate the over 100 vibrant fabric options available.
Dimensions: 35 by 55 by 41 inches | Upholstery: Available in basketweave, velvet, linen, chenille, twill, canvas, bouclé
Top Outdoor Pick
Polywood Vineyard Rocking Chair
IMAGE: WayfairThe rocking chair is available in multiple colors and is crafted with eco-friendly materials.
The chair’s low seating height may not provide ample back support.
For those seeking an outdoor reading chair perfect for leisurely reading, the Polywood Vineyard Deep Seating Rocking Chair is an excellent choice. Designed to withstand weather conditions like heat, wind, and snow, it’s made from recycled landfill and ocean-bound plastics, ensuring durability and sustainability. The cushions are also crafted from weather-resistant fabric, adding to its longevity.
The chair’s frame and cushions come in various colors to complement your outdoor decor. If exposed to harsh weather, the cushions and frame can be easily cleaned with soap and water. While the polyester/foam cushions offer a comfortable, relaxed feel, the chair’s 17.5-inch height may not suit those needing additional back support.
Dimensions: 29.25 by 28.5 by 37 inches | Upholstery: Recycled plastic
Final Verdict
Our top choice for the best reading chair is the Burrow Block Nomad Armchair. Its timeless design and modular features make it highly versatile, and the customizable fabric and legs add to its appeal. For a more affordable option, consider the Christopher Knight Home Kirkwood Modern Glam Velvet Club Chair, which costs less than half the price of our top pick. Its striking geometric design and plush velvet upholstery create a luxurious and cozy reading experience.
How to Shop for Reading Chairs Like a Pro
Size
When selecting a reading chair, size—including height, width, and depth—is a crucial factor. Assess the available space in your intended area to ensure the chair fits perfectly without being too large or too small.
Jennifer Nield, vice president of lifestyle product at MillerKnoll, a collective of furnishing brands, advises considering your preferred sitting position, as this will influence the ideal chair size.
“If you enjoy curling up with your feet tucked, opt for a chair with ample seat depth,” Nield suggests. For those who prefer stretching out, she recommends pairing the chair with an ottoman or choosing a chaise lounge.
Materials
Reading chair materials consist of two main components: the upholstery and the frame. Upholstery options include linen, microfiber, leather, bouclé, velvet, and polyester/cotton blends. “For upholstery, I suggest a cozy fabric like textured bouclé or a wool blend, which softens over time,” Nield explains.
A chair’s frame is typically constructed from durable materials such as hardwood, plywood, or metal. However, the quality of the frame’s construction plays a significant role in determining the chair’s durability and lifespan.
Style
Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell, a home renovation firm in Ontario, Canada, emphasizes that comfort and functionality should guide your choice of chair style. Consider whether you need features like reclining, swiveling, or adjustable mechanisms when selecting a design.
Questions You Might Ask
How much should you expect to spend on a reading chair?
The price of a reading chair can vary based on factors such as brand, materials, and additional features. “Basic reading chairs, often made with affordable materials like fabric or synthetic leather, can cost under $100,” Snisar explains.
Mid-range options typically range from $100 to $500, while high-end or premium reading chairs can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the brand and the use of high-quality materials like genuine leather.
What is the best height for a reading chair?
Reading chairs generally range from 15 to 17 inches in height. Nield advises paying attention to the back height for optimal comfort. “Choose a chair with a backrest that supports your head,” Nield suggests. “The goal is to achieve a lounge posture that’s both comfortable and supportive.”
Take Our Word for It
This piece was authored by Alicia Geigel, a contributor to Mytour. To curate this selection, she evaluated aspects such as dimensions, materials, and design to identify the top reading chairs. Additionally, she conducted thorough research on leading market options, considering brand reputation, customer feedback, and ratings.
For expert insights, Alicia consulted Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell, a home renovation firm, and Jennifer Nield, vice president of lifestyle product at MillerKnoll, a collective of furniture brands.
