10 Best Folding Chairs for Every Possible Occasion

A compilation of the best folding chairs for camping, picnicking and more.
By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
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Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: September 04, 2023
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Do you ever have friends over for dinner but don’t have enough chairs for everyone? Well, if you have folding chairs, you do! These chairs are easy to store and can be brought out when you need them. They can even easily be transported if you need to take them while camping or picnicking.

We’ve tested 34 models for over 120 hours, and chose the 10 best folding chairs. The Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair won our Editor’s Choice nomination. We’ve included models that can at least handle 225 lbs. and even some 800 lbs. capacity chairs! You’ll find wood options for an elegant touch, steel and aluminum chairs for a more modern look, and even mesh options to keep you cool on those hot summer days.

Quick Summary

Top 10 Folding Chairs Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9448 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.8
Features
  • Material: ripstop polyester, aluminum
  • Weight: 1 lb. 1oz.
  • Dimensions: 20.5W x 19D x 25.5H inches
  • Weight capacity: 265 lb.
  • Best for: camping and trekking

More features: 5-year warranty; easy to assemble; compact size; ultralight

This Helinox folding chair is a lightweight option that comes with a high weight capacity that accommodates many consumers. This chair is easy to transport and store with its compact size and ability to be packed into a carrying sack that is about the same size as a water bottle. This feature makes this folding chair to be the best one for camping, and great for other outdoor activities.

Its aluminum alloy frame is as light as it is strong and durable. The seat is made of ripstop polyester that won’t be damaged even by extreme weather conditions or harmful UV rays while out in the sun. It’s also removable so you can easily wash it using your machine, and have it cleaned and ready for your next adventure.

This chair is easy to assemble with its single internal bungee cord that pulls the poles in seconds. With all these features, this option can be used for camping, trekking, traveling, and many other outdoor excursions. The 5-year warranty also allows you to feel confident about your purchase with a guarantee that you will be satisfied.

    What stands out?
  • Lightweight
  • Compact and easy to transport
  • Made from durable materials
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Some customers found it to be a bit tight on the sides
  • Feels a bit unstable
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2801 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.7
2
Best for Home

COSCO Folding Chairs

Features
  • Material: metal, plastic
  • Weight: 9.41 lb.
  • Dimensions: 18.5W x 20D x 29.75H inches
  • Weight capacity: 250 lb.
  • Best for: indoors

More features: easy to clean; sold in a pack of two; different colors and materials available; easy to store; 1-year warranty

These Cosco folding chairs are a budget-friendly option that comes in a set of two. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and take up very little space. When folded, they can be stored comfortably, as they can fit in most areas, even in rather cluttered garages or storage units.

The vinyl fabric the seat and the backrest are made of is easy to clean, as it can be just wiped with a damp rag. This material is also water-resistant so these chairs can be used outdoors. There’s added padding for extra comfort, which also helps to avoid back pain during long periods of seating.

The frame is made from welded steel for maximum strength and long-lasting use. The tubular frame also comes with a powder-coated finish for extra protection and durability.

These chairs are backed by an incredible 10-year limited warranty so that you know you will be covered in case something unfortunate happens with them.

    What do we love it for?
  • Budget-friendly option
  • Lightweight and easy to store
  • Durable frame with powder-coating
  • 10-year limited warranty
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Heavier compared to other products
  • Plastic pieces can break easily
  • Sold is sets only
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2267 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.6
3
Best for Outdoors

Timber Ridge Director's Chair

Features
  • Material: polyester, aluminum
  • Weight: 7.36 lb.
  • Dimensions: 33.8W x 18D x 25H inches
  • Weight capacity: 300 lb.
  • Best for: camping

More features: foldable side table included; lightweight; portable; easy to fold and store; different colors available

This is the director’s style option that is great for those who would like to have a side table and a cup holder with one of the best outdoor folding chairs available. It works well for camping trips and can be used for many other activities as such.

The foldable side table offers a way to keep small items by your side while lounging and comes with a cup holder on the far end so that you can also have some drink near you. The chair’s frame is built from aluminum and is durable enough for heavy use. The seat is made from polyester material that is rip-resistant and doesn’t add a lot of weight to the chair.

This folding chair is easy to carry as it doesn’t add weight to your backpack when traveling a long way to a campsite. It also comes with a padded armrest that prevents you from leaning against cold metal and makes your resting experience more pleasant.

    What do we love it for?
  • Comes with a side table and a cup holder
  • Comes with padded armrests
  • Backed by a 1-year warranty
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Not much lower back support
  • The seat is somewhat shallow which can be uncomfortable for taller users
  • The armrests tend to spin on the frame
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7256 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.5
Features
  • Material: mesh and steel
  • Weight: 11.8 lb.
  • Dimensions: 24W x 25D x 34.8H inches
  • Weight capacity: 250 lb.
  • Best for: camping, tailgating, picnics

More features: folds flat for storage; has a beverage holder; includes a convenient carry handle for transportation; limited lifetime warranty

This GCI portable folding chair is a good choice for customers who want an option to use for camping and other outdoor activities. It comes with a durable steel frame that is perfect for heavy use and longer durability. The seat is made from a breathable mesh material that also is water-resistant, which is very convenient for wet climates.

Unlike other options we mention, this innovative chair model has a mechanism that allows you to use it as a rocking chair. This is a great feature to be enjoyed during long trips where you can be sitting for hours at a time.

This chair is fairly lightweight and comes with convenient carrying handles for easy transportation. It’s also equipped with patented folding technology that helps to open and close the chair safely and effortlessly. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, you can feel safe knowing that you will be covered if anything happens to your new chair.

    What do we love it for?
  • Durable
  • High weight capacity
  • Patented rocking technology
  • Patented folding technology
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Not easy to rock back and forth
  • The seat feels a bit too far forward
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4321 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
Features
  • Material: plastic (Polypropylene)
  • Weight: 8 lb.
  • Dimensions: 17.25W x 18D x 32H inches
  • Weight capacity: 800 lb.
  • Best for: indoor and outdoor use

More features: lightweight; open-back design; non-marring floor caps; easy to stack

This Hercules series folding chair is an option for those who don’t want to empty their wallets for a decent chair. With a weight of only 8 pounds, this chair can hold up to one hundred times its weight with a capacity to hold up to 800 pounds. This chair is made from polypropylene as well as metal, which makes it incredibly strong and durable. Also, such material allows you to use it indoors or outdoors because of its water-resistance.

This basic model doesn’t offer extra padding, but it comes with a curved backrest and open back design so that you can rest comfortably against the seat and feel a nice breeze keeping you cool. The legs come with non-marring floor caps, so their bottoms won’t damage floors while being used indoors.

These chairs are great to use for special events such as weddings or school events. They are rather convenient outdoors as they come with drain holes which can prevent your guests from seating in a pool of water in case of rain just before an important occasion.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Cost-effective
  • Lightweight yet holds up to 800 pounds
  • Ergonomic design with open back
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Non-marring floor caps are not very durable
  • Not great for long periods of inactivity – may cause some back pain
  • The plastic backrest is not long-lasting with consistent usage
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6792 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
Features
  • Material: mesh, steel
  • Weight: 14 lb.
  • Dimensions: 41W x 23D x 19H inches
  • Weight capacity: 400 lb.
  • Best for: garden and pool

More features: adjustable for seven different angles; not made for slippery surfaces; durable and sturdy

This folding chair offers a lot of comfort with reclining back you can lean against. Materials it’s made of are durable and perfect for long usage. Mesh is breathable and doesn’t allow moisture to sit and cause your back to sweat.

This chair is a heavier option that weighs 14 pounds, so you can feel the sturdiness when you pick it up to move. Plus, this folding chair also comes with seven different adjustable angles for reclining, so everyone can find an angle that fits their body. This also makes it convenient enough for both kids and adults to use it.

This chair comes with 400-pound weight capacity and a width of 41 inches, so it’s spacious and secure to sit on.

    Why is it special?
  • Reclining capabilities
  • Breathable fabric
  • 400-pound weight capacity
    What are the flaws?
  • Cannot be used on slippery surfaces, tile or hardwood
  • Some customers feel it’s too small
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6676 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.2
Features
  • Material: solid wood
  • Weight: 36 lb. (a set of 4 chairs)
  • Dimensions: 17.5W x 20D x 32H inches
  • Weight capacity: 250 lb.
  • Best for: indoors and outdoors

More features: comes in a set of four; fully assembled; sturdy construction; easy to fold; natural finish

This Winsome Robin folding chair model is one of the best for dining or any other event, whether you are indoors or outdoors. Since these chairs come in sets, they will work great for rental businesses or people who enjoy hosting parties with many guests. The natural color and grain make them unique and natural-looking; they also have a solid wood construction that makes them sturdy and durable for heavy use.

The weight of the full set of four is 36 pounds, making each chair only about 9. Although these chairs are lightweight, the weight capacity is not affected by that. With the ability to hold up to 250 pounds, these chairs can be used for many different purposes. Since they are foldable, it’s possible to hold several together for easy transportation and storage. These chairs also fold easily with minimal effort needed to make them flat.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Can be used indoors and outdoors
  • Unique natural style
  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy to use and fold
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • A bit wobbly when reaching their weight capacity
  • Not sold individually
  • Doesn’t have padding for back support
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7221 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
8.9
Features
  • Material: steel, textile
  • Weight: 10.4 lb.
  • Dimensions: 27.9W x 32.2D x 34.82H inches
  • Weight capacity: 225 lb.
  • Best for: indoors; dorm rooms, children rooms and movie nights

More features: different colors available; sturdy frame; easy to fold: comfortable to sit on

This Hexagon folding dish chair has a wide seat and added padding to offer maximum comfort, especially for dorms or game rooms. It has a corduroy-like lining that is a velvety soft to the touch and offers extra coziness.

The chair itself weighs just over 10 pounds, but it can hold up to 225 pounds, which can accommodate just anyone who wishes to lounge in it. This product also comes in a variety of different colors so you can pick your favorite to go with the same velvety material.

This option has an easy to fold mechanism that allows you to push the front and backrest together to make it flat enough to move or store. A nice bonus to all features mentioned is that this folding chair doesn’t come with an outrageous price tag, so it’s quite budget-friendly.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Strong steel frame
  • 225-pound weight capacity
  • Multiple colors available
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Some customers felt the seat was too shallow for them
  • May rock a bit with movement
  • The locking mechanism is only on one side
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5547 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.2
8.7
Features
  • Material: wood, bamboo
  • Weight: 9 lb.
  • Dimensions: 18.75W x 25D x 34.5H inches
  • Weight capacity: 250 lb.
  • Best for: indoor or outdoor use

More features: clear coated glossy finish; braces for extra support; curved back; easy to store

This wooden folding chair is good for indoor or outdoor use and comes with an all-natural look that sets it apart from other options we mentioned. With the bamboo construction and clear coated gloss finish, it looks like a piece of art. This chair is great to use for special events like weddings or family gatherings as extra seating inside or outside.

The chair comes with a curved backrest and offers support where you need most so that you don’t get back pain from sitting for a long time. Legs have several braces that provide extra hold and sturdiness, while bamboo construction makes this item durable and solid. Folding mechanism is simple, and it takes only a few seconds to make this chair flat and easy to move and store.

    What are its best features?
  • Indoor and outdoor use
  • Durable bamboo construction
  • Clear coating finish
  • Curved backrest for comfort and support
    What could be improved?
  • Legs can scratch the floor
  • The shiny finish makes the material look slightly artificial
  • Some customers noted that they got splinters from it
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4708 people in the past 30 days
8.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.1
8.6
10
Best for Dining Room

Linon Keira Pad Folding Chair

Features
  • Material: wood, vinyl
  • Weight: 26.8 lb.
  • Dimensions: 17W x 21.26D x 33H inches
  • Weight capacity: 250 lb.
  • Best for: indoors; kitchen and dining spaces

More features: comes in a set of two; padded vinyl seat; fully assembled; front and rear support for extra stability; easy to set up and store; elegant design

This Linon Keira chair is elegant, polished, and fits kitchens or dining rooms perfectly. It’s made from solid wood and is built to stand the test of time. The seat and the backrest come with padding made of durable vinyl fabric. It’s surprisingly easy to clean so that you don’t have to worry about food from the table falling on it. You just wipe the seat clean with a damp cloth, and it will look as good as new.

These chairs are sold in pairs and come fully assembled, so you don’t need to worry about putting the folding mechanism together. The legs come with support bars so they are more stable and add extra durability and strength to the chairs. Since they fold flat, you can store them easily and take them out to use whenever you have large gatherings or extra guests over for dinner.

    Why is it special?
  • Sleek design
  • Easy to clean
  • Extra padding for comfort
  • Fully assembled
    What are the flaws?
  • Sold in pairs only
  • A seat may be too high for some users
  • May not last as long when used too frequently


Things to Consider

When you look for a new folding chair, you have a lot of different options available for you. However, this can make it more difficult to choose the right one with so many around.
So, we want to give you some information about how to narrow down these vast choices and tell you about the best folding chairs we’ve found for home or office. Here are a few things that you should consider before you make your final purchase.

Advantages of a folding chair

Before purchasing a folding chair, you should know about all the advantages that come with it. Since such products are made to be folded, all great features that make them superior to ordinary chairs depend on it.

First of all, folding chairs are very compact and easy to store. So, they can sit in a garage and be taken out when a situation calls for it. You can have as many as you need for occasional guests or a camping trip, they won’t take too much space.

Secondly, chairs that can be folded are made to be carried around, so they are lightweight. It’s easy to put a camping chair in a bag and walk a mile with it. Options that are made for homes can be carried upstairs, to the garden, or elsewhere with no efforts.

Features to consider before you buy a folding chair

Before you decide on your final choice and make a purchase, you want to make sure that you are getting the best folding chair that money can buy. You also want to ensure that you’re getting an option that works best for you. So, here are some things that you may want to consider before buying a new folding chair.

Material

10 Best Folding Chairs for Every Possible OccasionThe materials that the frame and seat are made of are essential. If you are buying folding chairs that will be frequently used for special events, then you would want them to last longer, as well as to look and to feel pleasant. Similarly, if you only need them rarely and won’t use that much, then basic materials with no special features will do.

Whether the chair’s frame is steel or plastic, you need to know that it will hold up to the situations that you put it through. So, thinking about the material of the chair beforehand can help you make the right decision.

Weight

The weight of the chair can narrow down your decisions quickly if you know what you need. If you run a rental business and will be transporting and setting up these chairs every weekend, then you will not want to get a heavy option that is difficult to carry and move. But, if you want an option that you won’t often be moving, then you can get a heavy-duty chair that is more durable.

Dimensions

Knowledge of dimensions you need can help you to choose a right chair for any occasion, place, or person.

For example, you can think of how big is a room you want to put it in, or whether it is going to be used by a child or adult.

Weight capacity

10 Best Folding Chairs for Every Possible OccasionThe amount of weight that a foldable chair can hold can determine which options will fit what you need. If you use the chairs for business meetings or weddings, then you will likely want an option that can accommodate each person who uses it. However, even if you only use them at home, you want to have options that can hold even the tallest members of your family.

So, the weight capacity of the chairs that you purchase can be an important factor to look at.

Usage

Knowing what your new chairs will be used for is another way to ensure that you get the best option for you.

If you are using the chairs for formal dinners or gatherings, then getting an inexpensive plastic option will not fit you best.

However, if you want to buy in bulk for a large event, then focusing on the style of a chair and neglecting a price can set you back a lot.

So, know what you will be using the chairs for, and if you want to use them for multiple purposes, then get an option that works best in every scenario.

FAQ

Is it difficult to fold such a chair?

Most folding chairs offer a simple mechanism so that they are not difficult to fold. In fact, many take only a few seconds and require minimal effort or strength to do so.

What folding chair is best for outdoors activities?

The folding chairs that are best for outdoors are usually marketed as ones for camping. These options are usually water-resistant and have UV-resistant fabric on a seat; also they will typically have a cup holder on an armrest. These chairs can last through almost any weather condition and are sturdy enough to be used outdoors as frequently as you may need.

Our verdict

Looking for a new folding chair doesn’t have to be difficult, and with our comprehensive list of options above, you can find the perfect one for you in no time. If you’d like to get the best one available, then you can opt for the editor’s choice of the Helinox folding chair. With durable construction and high weight capacity, you can’t go wrong. However, no matter what folding chair you choose to purchase, you now have all the information you need to find the best option.

9,8
Total Score
Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair - Editor’s Choice
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