Garden Chair Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Model

By the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, July 20, 2026

Finding the ideal garden chair is the key to transforming your outdoor space into a true oasis of relaxation. Whether you're lucky enough to have a large garden, a welcoming terrace, or a simple balcony, your choice of seating is crucial for both your comfort and the overall harmony of the space. With so many different materials, styles, and features, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don't worry! This guide is here to shed some light with practical advice and a curated selection of products to help you find that perfect piece, tailored to your needs and your space.

How to Choose the Right Garden Chair

Before you start shopping, let's review a few essential criteria. They will help you narrow down your search and identify the chair that's made for you.

1. Material: A Balance of Durability and Maintenance

The choice of material determines not only the lifespan of your outdoor furniture but also the amount of time you'll need to spend on its upkeep.

• Steel and Metal: Often favoured for a metal folding chair, these materials are renowned for their sturdiness. An epoxy coating is a major plus, providing resistance to rust and fading. They add a modern touch and can be cleaned in a flash with a damp cloth.
• Synthetic (PE) Rattan: Very popular for armchairs with an enveloping design, like the famous egg chair, poly-rattan mimics the warm look of natural rattan but offers far superior resistance to weather and UV rays. It requires minimal maintenance.
• Fabric (Polyester): Often used on a steel frame for a folding camping armchair, polyester is valued for its comfort and durability over time. However, remember to bring it indoors during heavy rain to extend its lifespan.

2. Use and Footprint: Folding, Fixed, or Hanging?

The space you have available and how you plan to use your chair are two key considerations.

• For Small Spaces: A balcony chair or a folding model is the smartest solution. It can be stored away in an instant after use, freeing up valuable square footage.
• For Portability: If you're a fan of festivals, camping, or picnics, a folding camping armchair is a must-have. Lightweight and often supplied with a carrying bag, it unfolds in a moment.
• For a True Relaxation Nook: A freestanding hanging chair instantly becomes the centrepiece of your decor and a pure invitation to unwind. While it does require a bit more space, its comfort is often unparalleled.

3. Comfort: The Non-Negotiable Criterion

Comfort is the one criterion you can't compromise on. A chair with a high back offers much better support for your back and neck, perfect for lounging for hours. The presence of plush cushions, well-placed armrests, or an ergonomic seat are all features to look for to ensure total well-being.

Recommended Garden Chairs

To give you a more concrete idea, here are three models that each meet a very specific need.

For Versatility and On-the-Go Comfort: Pli Camp - Argi Folding Camping Armchair

Why this model stands out

This armchair combines the practicality of a folding model with comfort that's truly designed for relaxation. Its high back is a real bonus for fully unwinding, whether you're camping, at a festival, or simply in your garden.

Key Features

• Robust Structure: Its steel frame is designed for rock-solid stability.
• Superior Comfort: Its 91 cm high back provides excellent support for the back and head.
• Maximum Load: It can support a weight of up to 120 kg.
• Ready to Use: It unfolds and sets up in less than a minute, with no assembly required.

Who is it for?

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts (camping, festivals, fishing) who refuse to compromise on comfort. It's also an excellent spare chair for the garden, as it's very easy to store.

For Space Optimisation: Modula Metal Folding Chair - Anthracite/Graphite

Why this model stands out

The Modula chair is the epitome of practicality for small spaces. Its ultra-slim design when folded allows it to be slipped behind a door or into a garden shed, making it the ultimate balcony chair.

Key Features

• Maximum Space-Saving: Its folded dimensions are just W 46 x D 6 x H 100 cm.
• Durable Material: Its steel structure features an anti-rust epoxy treatment.
• Feather-Light: It weighs only 3.4 kg, making it very easy to move and store.
• Sleek Design: Its anthracite colour and clean lines blend in with any outdoor style.

Who is it for?

Ideal for city dwellers with a small balcony or terrace, as well as for anyone looking for easy-to-store spare seating for guests.

For Absolute Relaxation: Terrabeta Freestanding Hanging Chair

Why this model stands out

This freestanding hanging chair, also known as an egg chair, is much more than just a seat: it's an invitation to create your own wellness cocoon. Its trendy design and enveloping comfort make it the centrepiece of a garden, conservatory, or even a living room.

Key Features

• Absolute Comfort: It comes with thick cushions and a headrest for total relaxation.
• Iconic Design: Its egg-shaped structure is covered in hand-woven poly-rattan (PE rattan).
• Smart Feature: The stand is foldable, which makes off-season storage much easier.
• Versatile: It fits in just as well outdoors as it does indoors.

Who is it for?

For anyone who dreams of creating an exceptional reading or napping nook and adding a strong design statement to their decor.

Looking for Other Outdoor Furniture Options?

Our selection covers several needs, but the world of outdoor furniture is much broader. If you're looking for specific models for lounging by the water or to complete your setup, take a look at our other collections.

Discover our complete collection of lakeside chairs to find the seat that will accompany you on your next getaway.

Your Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Chairs

How do I maintain my garden chair to extend its lifespan?

It all depends on the material. For metal, cleaning with soapy water is sufficient; inspect it regularly to treat any scratches and prevent rust. For poly-rattan, a simple wipe with a damp sponge will do the trick. For fabric covers, follow the manufacturer's instructions: many are removable and machine-washable. In any case, the best advice is to bring in or cover your furniture during the winter to protect it.

Which garden chair should I choose for a small balcony?

On a small balcony, optimisation is key! Opt for compact and clever models. A metal folding chair like the Modula model is perfect, as it stores flat and takes up almost no space. Stackable chairs are also an excellent alternative if you need multiple seats without cluttering up your storage space.

What is the difference between a camping chair and a classic garden chair?

The fundamental difference is portability. A folding camping armchair is primarily designed to be lightweight, ultra-compact when folded, and easy to transport, often with a dedicated bag. A classic garden chair, on the other hand, focuses more on sturdiness, style, and on-site comfort, although many models are also foldable or stackable for easier storage.