Best Reading Chair (2024) | #1 Ergonomic Most Comfy Models

If you are a book lover and love reading a good book (here is my favorite) that you tend to lose yourself in, you know all the problems that come by reading for hours sitting in a bad chair.

If you love to be comfortable, either in freezing weather while you are wrapped in a blanket or cozy summer night,

You may be asking yourself…

What kind of comfy reading chair do I need?

One that makes me feel as I am resting on a cloud OR a More supportive ergonomic reading chair that will keep my spine in the correct position at all times? (such as one HERE)

Or you may be asking …

Does fabric really matter?

All of the above is important to take into consideration especially if you are having the following issues:

The list can go on.

I’ll discuss all of the important things to consider when it comes to top reading chairs.

Remember that what’s “perfect”  for you may not be for someone else, but I’ve selected the best models for different purposes, from indoor to outdoor, from loveseats to armchairs and recliners.

All you have to do now is to sit back, relax, and read this review.

Hopefully, the most comfortable model is waiting for you at the end!

10 Best Reading Chairs Suitable For Every Budget & Space (List for 2024)

1. Eames Lounge Chair by Herman Miller – #1 Comfortable Reading Chair With Ottoman

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This Herman Miller Eames impressed me through its elegant, classic design. The hardwood frame is sturdy, yet stylish, while the polyurethane upholstery feels soft and comfortable.

My only problem is the white color chosen for the upholstery because it’s could be challenging to clean. Otherwise, the club chair and ottoman are exceptionally comfortable.

The headrest and armrests provide excellent support for your neck and arms while you’re reading. The backrest and seat are slightly tilted back for a comfy, inclined position.

Besides, both the backrest and the seat have a concave design, which takes the pressure off your back and thighs, so you don’t get stiff while reading.

The soft foam filling used for the padding is not just comfortable; it’s also durable. Besides, the removable ottoman allows you to stretch your legs for some extra comfort while taking the pressure off your calves thanks to its plush padding. It’s more like an accent chair with a purpose

The swivel mechanism is easy to use, and you can place the chair anywhere in your home. However, be prepared to do the assembly yourself! All in all, this Eames Chair is user-friendly and comfortable.

Of course, the Eames chair is much more expensive because it uses higher-quality materials, like smooth leather or mohair for the upholstery.

2. Homall Single – Best Affordable (Cheap Option)

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The Homall Single recliner chair is the best value for money model I could find. However, given its affordable price point, don’t expect top quality, just decent quality.

For instance, the upholstery is made from PU leather, which is soft and easy to clean, but can scratch easily and it’s not extremely breathable. These problems can be easily solved if you through a quilt over this chair.

The padding is comfortable at first because it’s a high-density thicker sponge. But the sponge wears out fast, so this chair won’t last you for years and years.

However, the footrest is adjustable, the armrests are fairly wide and curved to take the pressure off your hands, and the headrest can support your neck.

The backrest is thick enough so you won’t experience any backaches, and you can use this chair for reading or your TV room or living room. This is a small, compact chair.

The advantage is that you don’t need a lot of room for it, you can place it anywhere in your home especially since it looks pretty well. The downside is that the Homall fits petite users.

If you’re a heavier user or put too much pressure on the chair – for instance, pressing too much on the armrests to change your position – you might hear creaks and cracks.

The good news is that you have a 1-month replacement/ money back guarantee if you don’t like this chair, plus a 1-year repair warranty.

3. Domesis Renu Wall Hugger Power Lift – Good Comfortable Chair For Watching TV

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The Domesis Renu chair comes in four different colors: black, brown, burgundy and cream. All models boast a wall-hugging design, meaning they only need 4 inches from the wall to lift and recline.

This isn’t the best looking reading, but it’s comfortable and easy to use. There’s a two-button powered control of lifting or reclining this chair.

The lifting option is good for people with mobility issues, helping you sit or get up. The recline option helps you take a nap while watching your favorite show.

The Domesis Renu has an ergonomic design, with a plush, resistant padding that’s made from high-density foam. The Renu recliner used for the upholstery is resistant, soft, and breathable, and it only takes 10 minutes to assemble it.

These characteristics make it a great option if you want to spend a few hours watching TV. However, this chair can only hold 300 pounds, it’s fairly big, and the leather can scratch easily.

4. Human Touch “PC-420” – Good Chair for Bedroom Use

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The HT PC-420 is a good chair if you like reading when you’re laying down because the model extends to 180 degrees. However, it doesn’t have a space-saving design, and you might fall asleep in it, so it’s a good chair for your bedroom.

This neutral posture positioning is good for your back because it takes the pressure off your spine and helps get rid of painful pressure points. This relaxes you, increases your lung capacity and feels very comfortable.

Reclining with the smooth side lever is easy. You’ll find the chair is very supportive thanks to the head pillow, extendable armrests, and lumbar support.

For a price increase, you can buy a model with memory foam PLUS, and Jade Heat for more support improved blood circulation and better relaxation effects.

Besides, the 100% full-grain leather is soft to the touch, while the solid wood frame is durable and elegant.

The back of the chair doesn’t look that good, though because you can see both the canvas underneath the leather upholstery as well as the mechanical lever. Again, this is an argument for placing the HT PC-420 in your bedroom. Great chair for people with posture issues or if you have a bad back

5. Ashley Furniture Signature Design Austere – Top Oversized Recliner

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A mammoth of chair recliners, this piece of furniture is huge, but it has a space-saving design so that it can be placed near the wall.

The chair reclines back, to take the pressure off your spine and allow you a pleasantnap. The ottoman extends as well, so you can lift your legs and relax further. Lifting your legs is another advantage in terms of improved blood circulation and decreased leg pain.

The materials used in this oversized chair for reading are of high-quality. The upholstery is made with a mix of polyester and polyurethane, but looks stylish, like faux leather.

The metal frame is durable, and so is the stitching.

There are a few disadvantages to this design idea.

The padding is quite firm, and some users dislike that, especially people who want to sit in this chair for hours.

Besides, Ashley furniture is better for reading rather than watching TV. That’s because this chair reclines a bit even when it’s in a sitting up position, so you won’t be sitting forward enough to see your TV.

6. RecPro Set of 2 Charles Collection – One of The Top Reading Chairs for Small Spaces (Can Fit RV)

Good reclining chair

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The RecPro recliners are a great choice for small spaces and can even fit in your RV. Even if they’re compact chairs, and therefore better for petite users, they don’t have a space-saving design.

This means you’ll need a 12-inch clearance from the wall to allow each chair to recline. Or, you can use the 30-inch swivel to rotate your chair and have it face your room while you’re reclining.

The great news is that they recline, though, and they also have an extendable ottoman. These allow you to relax and even get rid of some minor aches and pains in your back and calves.

It also helps that the chairs are comfy and supportive, thanks to their padded headrests, backrests, and seats. The assembly is easy, but the two chairs have stiff reclining mechanisms.

Another disadvantage is that the leather-like upholstery called Suprima Fabric isn’t that breathable. Besides, the chairs don’t sit up to a 90-degree angle, so it’s difficult to watch TV in them.

7. Safavieh MCR4643B Mercer Collection – Corner Model

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With a century of tradition in the industry, Savieh has produced this classic, elegant armchair that is perfect for your reading corner.

With a light blue upholstery and light brown finish, this model can fit any room, but remember that it’s a small model. The birch wood frame is resistant, and the polylinen blend upholstery is breathable and soft.

This loveseat is convenient because it features plush padding with button-tufting, but it doesn’t recline and doesn’t have an extendable ottoman, so you can’t nap or unwind in it.

8. Glitzhome Adjustable Executive Swivel – Great High Back for Office

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A multipurpose chair, the Glitzhome Executive looks stylish and so it’s a nice addition to your home office. The camel color fits any color pattern, and the leather upholstery is soft and can be cleaned easily, albeit not that breathable and squeaky.

The headrest is supportive albeit firm when you’re leaning back to read or rest your eyes. The Glitzhome has firm padding, which might not sit well with all users, especially those who prefer a plush sitting experience.

The Glitzhome is highly adjustable, though. It has a 360-degree swivel, smooth-rolling casters, plus you can adjust your backrest up to 106°, and the seat cushion up to 10°.

The rounded seat is comfortable too, taking the pressure off your thighs. On the flip-side, the armrests are somewhat low and narrow, but they’re supportive enough when you’re leaning back. It is also a good office chair to support your back.

9. La-Z-Boy Duncan Reclina-Rocker – Cozy Chair for Bad Back

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There are many pros to this model, starting with the fact that it’s assembled in the USA so that you can count on its craftsmanship.

But its biggest advantage is that it reclines and rocks. You can recline the back without activating the seat, or you can choose to move them simultaneously.

This movement allows you to settle and find the best position for your needs so that you can eliminate those pesky backaches. The reason is that this model provides reliable support in all its positions and promotes natural movements.

The extendable ottoman is another plus, with a three-position locking mechanism. This mechanism is safe, reliable, and helps you find the right position for your legs.

On the other hand, the material isn’t breathable and looks worn, so it’s not that classy. It’s also a heavy, big chair, so it’s not easy to move it around, plus you need quite a bit of space from your wall to recline it.

10. Gadot Grey New Velvet Modern Swivel

Comfy – God for Short Person

This Gadot Grey is soft and classy, with a 70s look, but it’s better for petite users. Its elegant, compact look means you can place it anywhere in your home or office.

It can swivel, and it’s upholstered with new velvet, which is comfy and smooth. The contoured seat is another cozy feature because it takes the pressure off your thighs.

The Gadot is sturdy and reliable, considering its frame is made from brushed steel and chrome-plated, so it’s durable and doesn’t scratch.

On the other hand, the velvet upholstery is easy to scratch, and the chair doesn’t have enough padding to make it comfortably fit for prolonged use. Its curved top design makes it look retro, but it also pokes the shoulders of taller people.

11. Flower House FHPC100-BRK Hanging Pumpkin Loveseat – Outdoor Chair For Patio & Garden

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If you love reading in your garden, you need an appropriate chair for the job. The Pumpkin Loveseat Hanging is a suspended garden chair, which looks elegant, yet classic.

The model is beautiful, relaxing, it has a soft pillow, and it’s spacious. The breathable fabric is easy to wash and weather-resistant, plus the frame is sturdy enough to hold users up to 400 pounds.

On the other hand, the pillow is quite thin so that you can feel the metal bars beneath the seat. You can easily solve this issue with some extra throw pillows or blankets, though.

I like that this chair swings and that you can place it indoors as well. It looks like a swivel chair. However, some users have reported issues with its assembly and with its hanging.

12. Flash Furniture Bomber Jacket Swivel Cocoon

Good Reading Lounge Chair

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This model has a retro style and a curved, concave design which makes it feel ergonomic. As you lean back, cradled inside the chair, you will feel how it takes the pressure off your spine.

The Cocoon is sturdy thanks to a stainless steel frame; it has adjustable floor glides and upholstery made from a mixture of leather and polyurethane. This upholstery feels soft, and it’s durable, but it’s not extremely breathable.

Besides, the Cocoon has firm padding, which makes some users report stiffness and backaches after some hours of seating down. The great news is that this padding is a fire-retardant foam, making the Cocoon a safe chair.

The integrated curved arms make this model look even more stylish, but they are not very supported and make bigger users feel cramped inside the lounger when they’re reading.

The lack of a headrest is another minus for extended time reading because your neck can get stiff.

13. Contemporary Orange Vinyl Kids Recliner With Cup Holder

Best for Kid

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Who says kids shouldn’t be comfortable while reading or watching their favorite cartoons? The Contemporary Kids Recliner comes in 22 colors; it has thick, comfy padding and easy-to-clean vinyl upholstery.

The cup holder in the armrest is very handy, and the raised black plastic feet will make your kid feel like a sultan.

I also like the sturdy hardwood frame because it shows durability. This model is safe, with a CA117 fire retardant foam and recline-safety measure. It is also the perfect reading chair for the toddler room!

As such, the chair doesn’t recline unless the child is seated and the ottoman extended. But this feature makes it difficult for smaller kids to recline the chair on their own.

Even older kids have to climb down to extend the footrest, while younger ones might tip the chair when they’re trying to tilt back. As such, the model itself might not be very stable.

Another disadvantage is that the chair isn’t big enough for older kids. While it can support up to 90 pounds, children of 6 or 7 might be too tall for this model.

14. Chelsea Home Furniture Rayna Swivel – Round

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The Rayna is the best round chair because it has a plush interior made with 1.8 Dacron-wrapped foam. This foam is pleasant for extended hours of reading and improves blood circulation.

However, the cushions sink where you sit if you frequently use this one, so you need to buy more filler. The swivel is not easy to activate either.

An advantage is its sinuous spring construction, which avoids sagging. The whole model is durable and solid, with a sturdy frame made with hardwood and plywoods.

These woods are nailed together and corner-blocked, which makes the frame stronger and therefore more durable.

Prepare to make room for a huge chair! This can be an advantage for petite users, who can lift their feet without reclining, but the disadvantage is that it takes up a lot of room.

15. IKEA Poang with Cushion – Great Reading Arm Chair

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The minimalistic Ikea Poang is ergonomic thanks to its S-shape backrest and concave cushioned seat. The frame is made from layer-glued bent beech, so it’s sturdy and durable.

A headrest could have been more convenient, but the high-back construction can still support your neck. The armrests aren’t padded, which takes away some of that comfort.

The polyurethane foam in the chair’s pillow is fairly thin, so it lacks that plush, cushiony feeling. However, the cushion’s polyester fabric is cleaned easily, and it provides good support.

This armchair doesn’t have a built-in footrest, but you can buy a separate Poang ottoman to lift your legs.

Models not included in this review: Hayneedle Acme Dundee Accent, Hayneedle Acme Dundee Accent, Haotian New Relax Rocking, Eames Lounge and Ottoman, Haotian New Relax Rocking, Haotian New Relax Rocking, Art Leon Modern Simplicity Industrial Style Club with matching ottoman, Dilleston Pillow Top Chaise (Faux Leather), Stone & Beam Leather Wingback, Tufted club, Bellanca Tufted Chaise Lounger, Urban shop Faux Fur Saucer, Cessna barrel, IKEA STRANDMON Wing (wooden legs)

What Type of Chair is Best for Reading?

There are a lot of different styles and layouts to choose from, but some things to consider are how much work you’re willing to do to clean, whether you need a headrest, how much you can read, how you sleep, and if you’re in poor health, which can affect how you sit and read.

I’ve always been too impatient to do anything like this – I’m a lankier person than I used to be, and so the amount of rocking back and forth my back would endure meant that I didn’t want to spend too much time in any chair. But as I’ve grown older, my spine has weakened slightly – no dramatic curvature, but my lumbar region has become slightly weaker. This means that there are often times when my spine stretches out too far in any particular model. I find a great model that supports me at just the right angle that I can read for most of the day.

The shape and depth of the chair can also make a big difference to how relaxed you feel – a deeper, flatter will take some of the pressure off your lumbar region, while a wider, slimmer is more suitable for long, lean people.

What Should I Look for in a Perfect Chair for Reading?

So, how to Find the Perfect Chair?

What chair features to look for?

Are Recliners Good for Reading?

There are no hard and fast rules here. Generally, reading in a recliner is more comfortable than reading on a hard, flat surface. It’s also more comfortable than reading at a desk or on your lap. The best part about reclining is that you are better off in a recliner with wheels. If the mid-century modern recliner is on wheels, you can use it to get up to go to the bathroom, to make the bed, to tend to a child, or simply for some extra flexibility when you have to switch positions because the dog jumped on your lap and rolled you over.

Depending on where you read, it is probably best to recline with the back of the chair facing towards you. If you were to lie down on a surface without your back to it, then you would be in a lot of pain and uncomfortable. Reclining is also more comfortable than sitting. If you are sitting and you turn to look up, your head will be higher than your heart. If you were to sit with your back to a hard surface, you will be slightly tilted in and thus will get more blood to the top part of your body and thus have less pain and more blood flowing to the legs. It’s also useful if you want to lie down while reading. You don’t have to recline for long to be comfortable, but simply being able to lie down at any point in the story will be beneficial.

What Should I Look For in a Comfortable Reading Chair?

It’s not a secret that many of us spend most of our days at a computer. At some point in your career, you’ll probably get a laptop-tablet combo that can be used in your home office, so you need to make sure you have a comfortable way to spend the time on your machine. Furniture shopping can be a tedious and awkward experience, but you can take some cues from the people in the stores and find something that’s easy to use and comfortable for you. Before you start thinking about chairs, it helps to think about what you’re going to be doing for the rest of the day.

Are you likely to be reading for long periods? How often are you going to have to spend your time at a computer? If it’s just a few minutes here and there, you may want to opt for a different type of chair altogether. If you do spend most of your time on a computer, there are a few things you need to be looking for in a chair. Comfort. The first thing you’ll need to consider when shopping for a comfortable & good reading chair is how comfortable it will be.

How Do I Choose a Chair for Reading?

You might think I had no interest in chairs. To me, chairs are pieces of furniture, dumb pieces of furniture, but furniture nonetheless. But, you see, it’s a small and seemingly unimportant detail that in my “library” (as my husband has called it since the day I brought home the chair we currently have in the corner of our living room), I have about 40 chairs and there is not one I particularly care for or care to spend my life sitting in. I have read stacks of novels, volumes of books, and short stories. I have sat on the wooden chairs of countless lecture halls, conference rooms, and private apartments. In all my library travels, I have searched and searched, like the Phoenician woman looking for the treasure in the sand, for the one chair that would give me peace, and so far, I have come up empty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the World’s Best Selling Chair?

The Aeron chair has been sold in 134 countries and has sold over 7 million units, making it the world’s best-selling chair. The Aeron chair’s success is due to its innovative features, modern design, and focus on ergonomic excellence. Its unique ergonomic design aims to provide ideal back support, promote a healthy posture, and decrease the risk of discomfort or injuries caused by sitting for too long. The extensive sales of the Aeron chair not only prove its widespread popularity but also demonstrate its exceptional quality and ability to meet the needs of people around the world.

Why Are Herman Miller Chairs Popular?

Although it wasn’t the first ergonomic chair, the Herman Miller Aeron chair had a significant impact and became America’s top-selling chair as of 2010. This popularity can be attributed in part to the chair’s association with web start-up culture in the 90s. Firstly, their chairs are renowned for their exceptional ergonomic design, meticulously crafted to support proper posture and enhance comfort during long hours of sitting. The chairs come with adjustable features like lumbar support, armrests, and seat height, which enable users to personalize their sitting experience. Secondly, Herman Miller places great emphasis on using high-quality materials and innovative technologies in their chair construction, ensuring durability and longevity. Herman Miller uses high-quality materials in their chairs, which improves their appearance, durability, and performance. They also prioritize sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly and recycled materials into their chairs. Finally, the furniture brand has earned a trustworthy and desirable reputation in the industry due to its consistent delivery of excellent products over many decades.

Why is Eames Chair So Special?

The Eameses aimed to give their Lounge Chair and Ottoman the appearance of a cozy, well-worn baseball glove. This design was inspired by the classic English club chair, updated for the 20th century and widely recognized for its comfort. The Eames Chair holds a unique and revered status in the world of furniture design, captivating enthusiasts and experts alike. Its distinctiveness can be attributed to several key factors.

First and foremost is its iconic design, characterized by a molded plywood or fiberglass shell that seamlessly combines form and function. This innovative design, created by the visionary duo Charles and Ray Eames, introduced a new level of aesthetic appeal and comfort to the realm of seating. Additionally, the Eames Chair’s construction involves a meticulous process, utilizing advanced techniques and materials to ensure structural integrity and durability. The chair’s ergonomic shape and thoughtful contouring provide exceptional support and adaptability to the human body, promoting comfort during extended periods of use. Furthermore, the Eames Chair’s timeless elegance and versatility allow it to effortlessly complement various interior styles, from contemporary to classic. Its enduring popularity and status as an icon of design excellence further contribute to its special place in the world of furniture.

Are Barrel Chairs Good for Reading?

Barrel chairs serve as an ideal choice for reading due to their unique design and versatile features. The curvature and ergonomic structure of barrel chairs provide excellent lumbar support, promoting a comfortable and relaxed posture during extended reading sessions. The enclosed shape of the chair creates a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the reading experience by fostering focus and immersion in the material.

One of the key advantages of barrel chairs for readers is their flexibility in placement. These chairs can be seamlessly integrated into various spaces, making them suitable for reading nooks, bedrooms, or home libraries. The compact size of barrel chairs allows for easy accommodation in smaller areas, offering a practical solution for those seeking a comfortable reading spot without sacrificing space.

Barrel chairs are renowned for their stylish and functional attributes. They can be used not only as reading chairs but also as accent pieces, adding character and visual interest to any room. The chairs’ unique shape allows them to stand out, making them a preferred choice for those who appreciate unexpected design elements.

In terms of material and design diversity, barrel chairs come in a range of options, including fabric choices and styles. This variety allows readers to select a chair that aligns with their personal preferences and complements the existing decor of their living spaces.

Overall, barrel chairs prove to be an excellent investment for reading enthusiasts. Their ergonomic design, flexibility in placement, stylish appearance, and cozy feel make them a favored choice for creating inviting reading spaces in homes. So, whether you’re diving into a novel or enjoying a quiet moment with a magazine, a well-chosen barrel chair can enhance the pleasure and comfort of your reading experience.

Final Words on Best Lounge Chairs

In this review, I’ve written about many chairs. Some with modern designs and are better looking than others, some are elegant, and some are retro.

Some are compact, others are oversized. Some are economical, while others require a generous budget. From corner loveseats to armchairs, recliners, and garden chairs, I’ve covered them all.

But the Mid-Century Lounge Chair from Casa Andrea Milano is the chair that is perfect for reading that impressed me the most because it’s the blend of comfort, support, and style.

The other reading chairs in this review have their place. The Homall Single Recliner Chair is a value-for-money, comfortable one.

The Domesis Renu is a good chair for watching TV, especially as it accommodates mobility-challenged users. The HT PC-420 has therapeutic purposes, though it’s better to use it in your bedroom.

If you are a real bookworm, create your ideal reading nook settings, and check out my blog for more buying guides!