Top Dining Chairs to Match Any Style and Budget

Top Pick

The Article Wosla Bristol Dining Chair boasts a deceptively simple design that’s both versatile and stylish. Its elegantly curved ladder back adds a contemporary touch, making it suitable for a wide range of dining settings. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the chair ensures exceptional comfort, making it a pleasure to use during meals or gatherings. 

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this dining chair excels in customization. You can select from various upholstery choices, including Danish cord, fabric, or leather, with the latter two featuring foam-padded seats for enhanced comfort. Although the fabric option isn’t stain-resistant, it has undergone rigorous abrasion testing to ensure durability and ease of cleaning. Furthermore, you can choose between two wood finishes to seamlessly blend with your existing furniture style. 

Crafted from solid oak wood, this dining chair is surprisingly lightweight at just 14.5 pounds, making it easy to reposition as needed. It arrives fully assembled, allowing you to use it immediately without concerns about instability or assembly errors.

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

Top Budget Pick

These dining chairs offer mid-century charm at an affordable price. Each set of four features a streamlined design with a curved back for added comfort. Constructed from plastic, they may lack luxury but are sturdy and easy to clean, making them perfect for budget-conscious buyers who prefer long-lasting furniture solutions.

A bit of assembly is needed for each chair, but it’s straightforward: just attach the legs to the seat. These chairs also come in vibrant colors like dark green, orange, and yellow, adding a retro flair to your dining area. However, those with a more conventional taste might opt for a subtler design in a timeless shape. 

Keep in mind that these chairs feature a seat width of 18 inches and a depth of 16 inches, which might feel tight for some individuals. If you’re uncertain about the fit, Amazon’s 30-day return policy allows ample time to test the chairs and return them if they don’t meet your needs. 

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

Top Cane Pick

The iconic Cesca Chair by Marcel Breuer, with its timeless appeal, has recently gained immense popularity on social media, thanks to its elegant steel frame, retro cane weaving, and cushioned seat that exude charm. For a cozier option, the Edloe Finch Nora Dining Chair, featuring a plush velvet cushion, earns our top spot as the best cane dining chair. 

Available in sets of two, the Nora Chair instantly elevates any space, regardless of the cushion color. Its armless design allows it to fit neatly under any table, while the steel frame provides a slight rocking motion for added comfort. 

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

Top Wood Pick

Perfect for compact areas, the Pottery Barn Cline Bistro Dining Chair features a slim profile that delivers style without occupying excessive space. Built from solid rubberwood, this chair is robust yet lightweight. Its high back provides lumbar support, while the vintage-inspired design ensures it doesn’t appear overly bulky.

Due to its solid hardwood build, avoid using harsh chemicals or all-purpose cleaners. Instead, dust with a microfiber cloth or a hardwood-specific cleaner. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause darker stains to fade, but with proper care, these chairs can remain in excellent condition for years. 

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

Top Upholstered Pick

This elegantly designed dining chair offers both style and comfort. It features a polyester-blend boucle upholstery, providing a textured, fuzzy look and a soft touch. Available in six colors, the fabric isn’t stain-resistant but can be spot-cleaned. For households prone to spills, darker shades are recommended to mask tough stains. 

With a spacious 24.75-inch seat width, this chair ensures guests feel comfortable at your dining table. The polyfoam seat offers a balance of softness and support, maintaining its shape over time. Additionally, the padded armrests and backrest enhance the overall comfort, making every meal a relaxing experience. 

This chair combines style and functionality, though it comes with a premium price tag that might not suit all budgets. A great alternative is to buy one or two chairs to serve as striking accent pieces in your dining area.

Material: Constructed with a solid and engineered wood frame, featuring a foam seat and boucle upholstery | Dimensions: 24.75 x 20.75 x 26.75 inches | Arms: Yes | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: Not specified

Top Choice for Plastic

The AllModern Moselle Dining Chair, sold in sets of two, is crafted entirely from plastic yet boasts a stylish design suitable for daily use. Its effortless cleaning—just an all-purpose cleaner or wipe is needed—makes it a great choice for families with children or pet owners. 

While the absence of cushioning makes it less suitable for extended sitting or lounging, these chairs are lightweight and easy to relocate, making them a practical option for smaller spaces. 

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

Top Windsor Pick

The Windsor Dining Chair from West Elm is an excellent choice for those seeking a classic, traditional aesthetic. Crafted from solid rubberwood and available in two enduring shades—black and dune—its timeless design ensures it remains stylish for years to come. 

Although spindle-backed chairs often lack comfort due to their tendency to poke and prod, West Elm’s take on the Shaker silhouette offers a surprisingly pleasant seating experience, perfect for long meals and post-dinner conversations. For added comfort, consider purchasing the matching seat cushions.

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

Top Wishbone Choice

The Wishbone Chair, designed by Hans Wegner, is a beloved classic among design aficionados. The Poly & Bark Weave Dining Chair offers a nearly identical design at a more affordable price, earning its place as our top pick for the best wishbone dining chair due to its exceptional craftsmanship and kiln-dried wood frame.

With its high back and curved arms, this chair provides exceptional comfort for extended seating. The intricately woven cane seat ensures ample support. Available in black, natural wood, and white, this chair is sure to become a cherished centerpiece in your home for years to come. 

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

Top Farmhouse Pick

To infuse a farmhouse aesthetic into your home, this dining chair set is an excellent choice. Available in various weathered woodgrain finishes, it allows you to coordinate with your current furniture while introducing a touch of rustic elegance. 

Crafted from solid Asian rubberwood, these chairs feature a cross-back design for enhanced durability. They are easy to clean with a simple wipe, maintaining their pristine appearance. The contoured seats promote good posture, though the 16-inch seat depth may feel snug for some. Note that cushions are not included, making them less suitable for extended seating.

While assembly is required, it’s a quick and user-friendly process, even for those with limited DIY skills. Given the price, this set offers remarkable durability and quality, ensuring it remains a lasting addition to your home. 

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

Top Stackable Choice

Perfect for compact urban apartments or additional seating during gatherings, Hay’s About A Chair stacks effortlessly (up to 12 chairs) and boasts a design stylish enough to remain on display permanently. The molded plastic frame ensures spills wipe away easily, while the chrome legs keep the chair light and portable for moving between rooms. 

One of the standout features is the generously wide seat—nearly 20 inches—allowing for easy movement and comfort. Available in a variety of vibrant colors (we particularly love the dusty blue and warm red), you can mix and match shades for a playful twist on traditional 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

Top Bistro Pick

This pair of bistro chairs from Target brings a European flair to your space. Crafted from faux rattan, they are waterproof and perfect for both your dining area and outdoor patio, maximizing their utility. Their smooth surface ensures that stains and spills can be wiped away effortlessly. 

Built with a durable aluminum frame, these chairs support up to 300 pounds, making them resilient against harsh weather or active children. Despite their robust construction, each chair weighs just 8.49 pounds, making them lightweight and easy to relocate as needed. 

The seats on these chairs are slightly more compact than others we’ve reviewed—measuring just 16 inches wide and 16.5 inches deep—which might feel snug for those who prefer more spacious seating. Additionally, the absence of armrests may not suit those who enjoy lounging or leisurely meals with guests. However, if these factors aren’t concerns, these chairs offer a practical and stylish solution for adding 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

Top Parsons Pick

Parsons chairs are celebrated for their minimalist design and clean lines, and this Birch Lane set is no exception. Featuring a full back and no armrests, it adds a refined and timeless aesthetic to your dining area. The foam-filled seat and soft linen upholstery ensure a comfortable seating experience. 

Several thoughtful design elements elevate these chairs. The gently curved back offers lumbar support to reduce discomfort during long sittings, while plastic glides on the legs prevent floor damage. Additionally, the solid rubber wood legs provide both durability and a warm, natural finish. 

One limitation is the single upholstery option. While the neutral flaxen color complements most interiors, those seeking bold or vibrant choices might find the lack of variety disappointing. Nevertheless, the chair’s elegant design and high-quality craftsmanship make it a standout choice. 

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

Top Metal Pick

Whether placed in your dining room, backyard, or patio, these chairs feature a powder-coated steel frame that resists harsh weather and spills. Inspired by the iconic Tolix Marais A Chair from France, they offer a refreshing alternative to traditional wood or fabric furniture. 

While these chairs lack padding and may not be the most comfortable, their stackable design makes them ideal for temporary or seasonal use. 

Material: Powder-coated steel | Dimensions: 20.25 x 17.3 x 3 inches | Arms: No | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Top Slip-Cover Choice

Slip-covered dining chairs are an excellent choice for those seeking upholstered furniture that’s also easy to maintain. This CB2 option is crafted from performance linen weave fabric, known for its durability and stain resistance. If spills occur, the slipcover can be removed and treated to maintain its pristine appearance. Additionally, the slipcover safeguards the wooden frame, extending the chair’s lifespan. 

This chair features a generously padded seat cushion for enhanced comfort. With a seat width of 19.25 inches and a depth of 17.5 inches, it provides ample space to relax. However, its slightly wider design may not suit smaller dining areas.

We wish more color options were available—currently, it’s only offered in cream and black, limiting its ability to add vibrant personality to your space. That said, its sleek design complements various decor styles, and it delivers exceptional 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

Top Outdoor Pick

Selecting an outdoor dining chair that combines durability and style can be tricky, but the Wade Logan Arthur Rattan chairs excel in both areas. Their aluminum frame, wrapped in rattan, withstands various weather conditions without fading or showing wear. The material is also stain-resistant, making maintenance as simple as spot cleaning. 

A standout feature of these chairs is their stackable design, allowing for easy storage during colder months, even in limited spaces. The ergonomic curved backs and integrated armrests enhance comfort while adding a sleek, modern touch to their appearance. 

With a seat width of 16.5 inches and a depth of 15 inches, these chairs provide ample comfort for most people, even during extended use. However, their shorter height may make sitting down and standing up challenging for some. Available in multiple finishes, including a sleek all-gray option, they allow you to choose the best match for your decor. Plus, they arrive fully assembled, saving you time and effort.  

Material: Aluminum, rattan | Dimensions: 21.75 x 2 x 28.5 inches | Arms: Yes | Assembly Required: No | Weight Capacity: Not listed

Final Verdict

The Article Wosla Bristol Dining Chair earns our top spot as the best overall dining chair. Its sophisticated design and customizable upholstery make it a versatile choice for any dining space. For a more affordable alternative, the Furmax Pre Assembled Modern Dining Chair offers a range of colors and a distinctive mid-century aesthetic.

How to Shop for Dining Chairs Like a Pro

Material

Gray recommends opting for dining chairs with solid wood or metal legs. She notes that painted or upholstered legs are less durable, as they are susceptible to chipping or tearing over time.

Metal legs are highly durable, resistant to weather, spills, and pet damage. Solid wood legs, on the other hand, offer greater versatility in design. However, if the legs feature a veneer or wood coating rather than being solid wood, they may peel or wear out with time. Metal legs also provide superior durability at the joints and can support more weight compared to wood.

Upholstered chairs are ideal for those seeking extra comfort, but they often require more meticulous cleaning. If you prefer upholstered options, choose chairs made from durable, stain-resistant fabrics. Leather is another excellent choice for upholstery, as it ages gracefully, though spot-cleaning should be avoided to prevent damage. 

Another practical option is slip-covered chairs, such as the CB2 Reyes Slipcovered Dining Chair. The slipcover shields the chair from damage, and the cover can be machine-washed to remove stains and debris, making maintenance much simpler and enhancing overall durability, according to Hodges.

She explains that cleanable fabrics fall into two categories: performance fabrics, which are stain-resistant and easy to clean, or those labeled with a W (water-based) or SW (solvent or water-based) cleaning code. While non-performance fabrics like cotton and wool blends can still be manageable to clean, delicate materials such as silk and rayon pose more of a challenge, according to Hodges.

Lastly, when selecting a cushioned chair, pay attention to the fill material. Polyester batting is the most cost-effective option but tends to flatten over time. Foam and hollow-fill fiber cushions are also widely used for their softness and plush feel, with foam offering better support.

Height

The standard seat height for dining chairs is 18 inches, though padded seats may measure up to 20 inches to account for compression when seated. Dining tables typically range from 28 to 32 inches in height, and it’s recommended to leave about 10 inches of space between the seat and the table. Less space may hinder leg-crossing or ease of movement, while too much space can create an awkward dining posture.

Arms

According to Gray, the choice of armchairs depends on the dining table. “In smaller spaces, I usually avoid chairs with arms,” she explains. “I often reserve armed chairs for the ends of the table.” However, if the arms are too high, they can make it difficult to tuck the chair in or move your arms freely while eating. Arms are particularly beneficial for older individuals or those who need extra support when sitting down or standing up.

Support

Gray suggests assessing your current chairs to determine your preferred level of cushioning. Remember that while dining chairs should be comfortable, they shouldn’t be as soft or padded as a recliner or lounging chair. 

Hodges emphasizes that a seat height of 18 to 19 inches and upper back support are crucial for comfort. “Chairs with very low backs may feel uncomfortable for some, as can armless chairs or those with excessively tall backs,” she says. “It’s also essential to check the height of your dining table and the apron beneath it to ensure sufficient legroom.” Additionally, verify the chair’s width and depth before purchasing to ensure it meets your comfort needs.

For a more ergonomic dining chair, consider options with foam-filled cushioned arms and an S-curved back to support your spine during extended sitting. Also, ensure the chair has a sufficient weight capacity—ideally up to 250 pounds. For higher weight requirements, metal and plastic chairs are the most supportive choices.

Style

To achieve a specific aesthetic in your dining space, consider how the materials and design of your chairs influence their overall style. For a traditional vibe, solid wood chairs like the Article Wosla Bristol Dining Chair are ideal, while metal or plastic chairs suit a more modern look. When shopping, align your choice with the existing style of your dining room and table. For instance, pair a round table with sleek lines with modern chairs rather than farmhouse-style ones to maintain a cohesive design. 

When styling dining chairs, Hodges recommends opting for a matching set rather than individual pieces. “A set typically works best,” she explains. “However, host chairs can differ, especially if space constraints prevent every chair from having arms.” Mixing and matching chair styles can add versatility to your space. Combining modern and traditional designs can also introduce character or allow you to incorporate a cherished vintage chair or an incomplete heirloom set, Hodges adds.

Questions You Might Ask

What height and depth should a dining chair be?

While there’s no universal height or depth for dining chairs, the average chair measures 18 inches in height and 20 inches in depth. Dining tables typically range from 28 to 32 inches in height, leaving about 10 inches of space between the seat and the table for optimal comfort and ease of use.

Do dining chairs have to match the dining table?

Gray actually prefers dining chairs that don’t perfectly match the table. “I might avoid mixing too many wood types, but they don’t need to be an exact match—or I might choose a completely different material,” she explains. For example, pairing a metal frame with a wood table creates an industrial vibe, while upholstered seats lend a more formal touch.

Additionally, think about how frequently you use your dining table and who will be sitting at it. Upholstered chairs are prone to staining in a busy family kitchen, whereas plastic, metal, and wood chairs are easier to maintain.

How can you tell if a dining chair is good quality?

To assess quality, pay attention to assembly and materials. Chairs that require self-assembly often wear out faster due to weak joints or screws that may loosen over time. For materials, prioritize solid legs over coated or veneered ones to minimize chipping or peeling.

For the chair frame, solid woods, plastics, and metals are more durable than fabrics, which can discolor, tear, or stain. However, if you prefer cushioned seats, slip-covered chairs or machine-washable cushions offer a more durable alternative.

How many chairs should fit at a dining table?

The number of chairs depends on the size and shape of your dining table. Generally, allow about 2 feet of space between chairs, which means approximately four chairs for a 36-inch table and six chairs for a 46-inch table. Round tables can accommodate more seats than rectangular ones.

What type of dining chairs are most comfortable?

Comfort is subjective, but cushioned dining chairs with armrests and lumbar support are generally preferred over those without, as they help prevent soreness and stiffness during extended sitting. However, chair dimensions are equally crucial for comfort—no matter how plush or supportive a chair is, it won’t be comfortable if the seat isn’t wide or deep enough.

Take Our Word For It

This article was authored by Kate McGregor, a design and market editor with contributions to publications like ELLE Decor, Architectural Digest, The Expert, and Domino, and Jen Woo, a design, lifestyle, and culture writer with over a decade of experience. We researched numerous dining chairs, evaluating dimensions, materials, comfort, durability, design, and price. We also sought insights from Kate Gray, an interior designer and founder of Brooklyn-based Hamilton Gray Studio, and Laura Hodges, an interior designer and owner of Laura Hodges Studio.