Poorly designed chairs can lead to posture problems, and posture problems can lead to a sore back and neck and an unpleasant office experience.
A sore spine will affect everything else you do throughout the day, which means you may seek medical attention, opt for massages, head to a chiropractor, and look for any kind of relief available. Maybe you find relief, but at what cost?
Instead, you’re much better off investing in yourself and in your home office by purchasing one of the best ergonomic office chairs available. But with so many chairs out there, which is right for you?
We’ve combed through hundreds of chairs and pinpointed several I can highly recommend, with options at varying price points. So, before you accept the fact that you’ll be going to the chiropractor for the rest of your life, treat yourself with an office chair designed with your comfort in mind.
What Makes the Best Ergonomic Office Chair?
An ergonomic chair is, by definition, one that was engineered to provide optimal support for our bodies, catering to our posture, support, health, as well as comfort. In my experience, not all chairs that have the label ‘ergonomic’ fit the description. That’s why I wanted to dissect the matter a bit further, finding that ergonomic chairs with the following elements are the best in this category:
1. Adjustability
Of all the things that make a good ergonomic chair, adjustable features take the cake. While the materials of a chair may be comfortable, many people, including myself, don’t find them as such if the rests (armrest, headrest, largest, and such) are in a fixed position. This also applies to the back of the chair, its base, and any detachable features that may be supplied.
However, adjustability can be rated in degrees. If only the base can be tweaked, you’re still stuck with a rigid chair – just one that can tilt up or down. Are the armrests detachable? Can you change the position of the headrest? If so, you’ve bought a good chair. The best ergonomic chairs, in my opinion, are fully adjustable and capable of catering to your individual needs, no matter how specific they may be.
2. Quality of Material
This is another fairly deep topic, especially given that advancements in technology now allow brands to manufacture sci-fi proprietary materials and things characterized by through-the-roof sturdiness, with triple or quadruple layers consisting of special sponges, fabrics, and soft, but robust wood.
Starting from the bottom upward, I recommend chairs with a firm, durable base made of metal. A plastic base is a common characteristic of a cheap, flimsy office chair. Ideally, shoot for stainless steel.
Certain parts will probably be made of plastic, but again, even this material comes in different forms. For the lower section of the chair, armrests, and back, ABS, PPSU, as well as polypropylene are all good choices.
3. Flexibility & Non-restricted Movements
It’s nearly impossible for a person to sit perfectly still for several hours. That’s why non-restricted movements are such a big factor when determining the comfort and value of any chair. There are a few things to be said about this issue, as it is largely subjective.
First and foremost, let’s start with the movement of your legs. If the base of your chair is too stiff, you’ll need to hop over the wheels every time you want to find a better position, which is bound to break your focus and affect your concentration.
Secondly, the movements of your arms, or better said, the positions your arms take while you’re typing are largely dictated by the position (and adjustability) of the armrests. If these features are uncomfortable, you may be better off not using them at all, but you’ll eventually experience fatigue.
Let’s not forget full-body movements; the moments where you simply don’t feel comfortable in a particular position so you instinctively move everything and begin searching for a new sweet spot. A flexible office chair will cater to those occasions.
4. Comfort Level
It’s important to make a distinction between short and long-term comfort. Since we’re talking about office chairs and things that you’ll probably use for at least five to six hours on workdays, let’s focus on long-term comfort.
In my experience, leather is great, but far from the best. It is flexible enough to support the chair’s ergonomics, and it’s typically sturdier than fabric (and in many cases superior to mesh). However, leather heats up quickly, and chairs featuring this material are nearly unbearable during the summertime.
Mesh offers great ventilation, it’s simple to clean, and it’s relatively close to leather in terms of ergonomic support. In my research, I’ve found that mesh materials can retain their original shape solidly, but they’re not as durable, or comfortable, as leather. Fabric-covered chairs are softer; however, fabrics are normally thin and provide minimal support.
5. Support
The first thing we all want from ergonomic chairs is support for our bodies. In simple terms, I think it’s important to consider both quantity and quality of said support, meaning the number of supportive features (rests), and their efficiency. The best ergonomic chairs are equipped with comfortable armrests and headrests, as well as lumbar support pillows.
The Best Ergonomic Office Chairs for 2023
| Product | Model | Weight Capacity | Height Adjustment | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Steelcase Gesture Chair | 400 lbs | 4 inches | |
|
AmazonBasics Mid-Back Office Chair | 275 lbs | 4 inches | |
|
ErgoTune Supreme Chair | 67 lbs | 4 inches | |
|
Steelcase Series 2 Office Chair | 400 lbs | 4 inches | |
|
Boliss Ergonomic Office Computer Desk Chair | 400 lbs | 3 inches |
Embody Chair by Herman Miller
If you’re not working with a budget, why not get the very best? Comfort is the key when shopping for an office chair. After all, you probably spend more time on your office chair than any other piece of furniture.
Well, when it comes to the ultimate office chair quality, the Embody Chair by Herman Miller is the first chair you should consider. It was designed by Bill Stumpf, who created the original Aeron chair, and Jeff Weber to support healthy circulation and make sitting for hours a day easier on the back and spine.
The chair’s back moves with you throughout the day, keeping your spine in alignment and supporting the lower back, all without any adjustments on your part.
What does all of that mean for you? You can kick neck and back pain to the curb and stop leaving work hobbled and hunched over. Your chiropractor will miss your hefty payments for visits, but that’s just more money back in your pocket.
- Aluminum base makes it lightweight and yet extremely durable
- Adjustable arms
- Good range of height adjustability
- Comes in over a dozen colors, so have fun and pick out the color that best represents who you are
- Designed by physicians and back health professionals to help ensure proper ergonomics
- The seat has an extensive range so you can sit comfortably, whatever your height, all while feeling supported
- Sure, this isn’t the cheapest chair of the bunch, but it’s not the most expensive either (and you’ll save some bank on treatment bills)
- No individual head or neck support
If you are looking for an ergonomic chair that will fit your budget, here are our picks for the best ergonomic office chairs for your workspace to counteract neck and lower back pain and help you stay comfortable and productive.
Best Ergonomic Office Chairs for Lower Back Pain
An ergonomic office chair can do wonders to alleviate lower back pain that can affect you long after you leave work for the day. If you already suffer from back pain, it’s important to understand that long hours in a chair compress the discs in your lower back, which eventually begin to wear down and cause sharp or chronic pain.
This pain can be severe enough to affect your mobility for the rest of your life. The good news? It’s never too late to treat the problem and give your aching back the support it needs.
The following chairs are the highest-rated options for every budget to free you from long days of an aching back and help you concentrate on work — then forget about the day at the office when it’s time to go home.
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $1500
1. Steelcase Gesture Chair
The award-winning Gesture chair from Steelcase is one of the finest ergonomic chairs money will buy, and that’s saying something because Steelcase has some solid chair options and is our Editor’s pick.
This revolutionary new office chair is designed to accommodate various natural body positions and sizes, all while supporting and protecting the back and neck.
Gesture uses exclusive LiveBack technology that automatically adjusts to your body, mimicking the natural movement of your spine and neck.
Struggle with certain chairs because the armrests box you in? That won’t be a problem with this chair, as you can easily manipulate how the rests are positioned. Nobody wants to feel pinched in their chair. The arms can also swivel with 360 degrees of motion, literally supporting your arms in any possible position.
This design has a slightly taller seat height option. It can raise up to 21 inches, which should be fine for most individuals, even if you are over six feet (although once you push 6’6 you might be too tall for the chair). Most office chairs stop at 20 inches, so this extra inch might be exactly what you need.
Gesture won the Neocon Gold award in 2013 and is available in eight different colors, so you can always feel good about how your chair looks as well as how it functions.
- Sleek design looks great in any office
- Award-winning construction
- The steel construction makes this an extremely durable chair, so no more busted wheels or bases that chip away
- Comes with 100% Steelcase warranty
- Arms can not only be extended up and down but in and out, to allow for better arm placement, regardless if torso width
- Core equalizer provides excellent lumbar support
- The chair is heavy (over 70 pounds), so lifting the chair and moving it to different rooms may be difficult for some individuals
- A higher price point may make it too expensive for some consumers but worth it in the long run
2. Steelcase Leap Fabric Chair
With full adjustability, top-tier materials, and being specifically engineered to provide maximum comfort, this is, in my humble opinion, the best ergonomic office chair available on the current market.
Digging through the weeds, you’ll discover this chair’s LiveBack technology will bring you a level of office comfort you’ve never experienced before. It doesn’t matter if you are sitting, reclining, working on the computer, or reading a book, it will always shift to meet the needs of your body (if only everything else in life could do that).
Not only does the Leap Chair conform to your body and move with you in ways no other chair does, but it is also sustainably produced. No less than 30% of the chair is made from recycled materials, and over 90% of the chair is recyclable — meaning that when this chair does finally give out, the materials can be reused, providing minimal environmental fallout.
- LiveBack design helps mimic the curve of your spine, reducing back strain
- Adjustable arms and seat height
- The chair will shift with your back as you tilt back
- Made from 30 percent recycled material
- Adjust the lumbar support in the lower back. Want more pressure? Sure. Want less? Not a problem
- Excellent durability
- The base and frame are made from (heavy-duty) plastic, which isn’t as durable as some of the metal options out there
- Extremely tall? This chair might not be the one for you. The ground to max seat height is 20 inches. So, if you measure from the floor to your knees, and you’re greater than 20 inches, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
3. Nightingale CXO Executive Mid Back Chair
Next up we have Nightingale’s CXO Executive Mid Back Chair, which is fairly close to LRXG’s Boss as far as price is concerned, but everything else about them is almost entirely different.
I believe many people love plain and beautiful chairs, but I’m also quite sure that there are people who value practicality, versatility, and efficiency more. If you’re like me, you fall into the latter group and will probably fall in love with Nightingale’s CXO Executive chair in an instant.
Let’s start with the basics. The dimensions of this chair measure 29.5 x 29.5 x 55 inches and it weighs around 79 pounds. You may have noticed that it’s almost twice as heavy as LRXG’s Boss chair, but that’s mainly because of the extra hardware and mechanisms that promote outstanding adjustability.
Regarding this, the CXO Executive chair rocks a dedicated fully adjustable lumbar support feature that can be moved vertically or horizontally. This is a huge game-changer for people suffering from chronic lower back pain, as you’ll be able to find the “sweet” spot and enjoy painless workdays from now on.
Another ergonomic quality of this office chair is its waterfall seat. Seats that slope down divert stress from your back and thighs, increasing overall comfort and providing you with extra support to the most vulnerable areas. In this specific model, two layers of ENERSORB™ premium mesh material were used to enhance comfort and sturdiness.
The woven mesh is exceptionally plush and offers excellent breathability while being considerably lighter than leather. Furthermore, the seat features a pneumatic lift that can be used to adjust the tension and height.
Regarding the headrest and lumbar areas, a four-way fabric was used to enhance the ventilation. While regular fabric materials tend to be quite flimsy and rip after a couple of months, Nightingale’s CXO Executive chair will remain sturdy and functional for years if given proper and timely maintenance.
Let’s talk about its base. Since this is one of the best boutique ergonomic chairs the current market has to offer, you’d be right to assume that it’s built to last and withstand all kinds of punishment.
The base of Nightingale’s CXO was manufactured of die-cast corrosion-resistant aluminum. While boasting the durability of a full-steel chair, it’s considerably lighter(despite being heavier than LRXG’s Boss chair).
The only downside to this model is that it may not be aesthetically as pleasing as a luxury leather-made chair, although if you value minimalistic designs above extravagant luxury chairs, this may be the best choice for you.
I’d rate it 5/5 if it at least came in multiple color variations, but it is only available in black. At the end of the day, Nightingale’s CXO is an amazing choice for people that want to fully customize the chair they’ll be spending long hours on.
- Decently light for such a large chair
- Its base is made of robust die-cast corrosion-resistant aluminum
- High-density mesh on the seat and headrest promotes better air circulation
- Excellent long-term comfort
- Fully adjustable recline, tension, seat height, headrest, lumbar, and armrests
- Only available in a single color
- Expensive
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $1000
A budget range of $1000 should be able to give you a decent ergonomic chair in exchange. Investing a thousand bucks in a piece of furniture is no small deal, so make sure you make the most of your money.
4. Eurotech Seating Ergo Elite High Back Chair
So far, I’ve covered a full-leather chair and a hybrid fabric-mesh model. I thought it would be fitting to show you what one of the best full-mesh ergonomic office chairs can do for you, so let me introduce you to Eurotech’s Ergo Elite ME22ERGLT-N15 High Back Chair.
Although it may look a bit basic, the level of adjustability this model offers is unprecedented, even among some of the most expensive ergonomic office chairs, so that’s where I’d like to begin my review of the Ergo Elite.
First of all, its tilt system is amazing; it is comprised of three features, including the synchro-tilt, tilt lock, and tilt tension control functions. Once the tilt tension feature is activated, the recline rate will adapt to your weight and automatically configure the best setting without requiring you to manually tweak anything.
The synchro-tilt feature governs the vertical recline rate, but unlike the previously mentioned feature, it works with presets. I recommend giving the synchro-tilt mechanism a shot first, as you may fall in love with some of the default settings and consequentially won’t need to make any further changes.
Speaking of which, once you’ve found the ideal position, you can use the tilt lock feature to lock the recline in place, preventing the chair from moving an inch in either direction.
There is a couple of other adjustabilities onboard the Ergo Elite with the most prominent being its seat. Namely, you can configure the seat’s height and depth on the fly; this feature is separated from all the reclining functions and works independently from other adjustable settings.
The back of this ergonomic chair can be height-adjusted, and the only thing that bothered me is the fixed position of the headrest.
Armrests, on the other hand, are far more flexible. You can configure their height, depth, width, and swivel angles.
Additionally, this ergonomic chair features integrated lumbar support that can’t be height or depth-adjusted but is perfectly positioned to work in synergy with the back and seat.
While we’re at it, the Ergo Elite chair sports a waterfall seat just like the Nightingale’s CXO, which alleviates pressure from your back and legs.
I think it would be appropriate to point out some of the benefits this chair has over contemporary high-end mesh office chairs since it’s a bit more expensive than the previous two I reviewed.
Aside from incredible adjustability, Eurotech’s Ergo Elite is considerably sturdier than most mesh chairs. Woven to perfection, layers of mesh are deployed throughout the entire chair, achieving an optimal balance between ventilation, comfort, and heat dissipation.
It does have a hefty price tag, and you’ll need to assemble it upon arrival, but considering its superb versatility, sturdiness, and aesthetics, I’d say it provides incredible value.
- Made of superiorly durable mesh materials
- Optimal air ventilation
- Oversized height, width, depth, and swivel angle-adjustable armrests
- Built-in lumbar and headrest features
- Adjustable, thoroughly streamlined waterfall-style seat
- Durable aluminum frame with roller-caster wheels
- Gorgeous and modern aesthetic
- Needs to be assembled
- One of the most expensive ergonomic office chairs on the list
5. GM Seating Ergolux Genuine Leather Executive Hi Swivel Chair
We are slowly stepping down to the lower brackets of the high-end price point category, and the best way to open this segment is with a premium ergonomic chair. I’m bringing GM Seating’s Ergolux Executive Swivel Chair up for review, and if you’re searching for quality, you’ll find it aplenty here.
This model is made of refined (genuine) leather materials. It may not look as elegant as LRXG’s Boss Chair, and that’s precisely the reason why I love it so much; it gives people the flexibility to enjoy the cozy, comfortable benefits of real leather while maintaining a sleek, modern look.
On the topic of aesthetics, it comes in four stunning color styles, including black, brown, burgundy, and white. I can’t decide which version looks best, but I love that you can choose from several unique options and pick one that suits your workspace best.
The Ergolux ergonomic office chair weighs only 65 pounds, which makes it among the lightest models on the list so far (inferior only to LRXG’s Boss Chair which weighs about 50.7 pounds).
It does not come pre-assembled, but the setup process is remarkably straightforward. You’ll receive a detailed instructions manual in the box, and all you’ll need is a couple of basic tools.
One of the features that stands out the most in Ergolux is its exquisite lumbar support. It is detached from the chair’s back and sits at a slightly different angle, ensuring your back is in the correct position even if you lean back with the chair’s reclining functions.
Regarding the latter, the back can be reclined with the built-in tilt tension mechanism, just like the seat and the armrests. The full list of its adjustabilities includes seat height, tilt, and depth; back recline and height, and headrest height.
The Rachet back design is held in high regard among older workers who aren’t too tech-savvy. It takes the knob-based adjustments out of the picture and replaces them with a simple manual adjustment mechanism. When you set the height and depth of Ergolux’s back to the desired level, simply lock the back into position with the tilt lock function.
What makes Ergolux more valuable than most ergonomic office chairs just below $1,000 is the fact that it’s probably the most feature-packed model you can find for the money.
I almost fell in love with the armrests on this chair, but they’re a bit too small to be useful in the long term. You’ll need to find a perfect position (and remain in it) for the armrests to serve any purpose, which might make them useless for more “active” office workers.
- Lightweight and highly durable construction
- Made of genuine grain leather materials
- Excellent level of adjustability
- Beautiful aesthetics; it comes in four unique color styles
- Exquisite lumbar support
- A streamlined Ratchet back design
- The armrests are tiny, although they are also incredibly adjustable
- May not be perfect for super-tall people
6. NouHaus ErgoPro Ergonomic Office Chair
The ErgoPro chair is a lighter alternative to Ergroup’s model, offering a relatively similar set of features and benefits at a shallower price tag. Although there are a couple of distinct differences that set them apart, NouHaus’s ErgoPro is still an excellent choice for anyone searching for customized comfort, regardless of budget.
I was pleasantly surprised with its SWS technology, which is essentially a weight-sensing mechanism that disperses the user’s weight in optimal proportion, regardless of how strong the force pressuring it is. On the downside, it can only support 275 pounds of weight, which is still fairly good.
In terms of durability, its base is made of high-quality aluminum while the back is made of breathable mesh fabric. More specifically speaking, NouHaus’s proprietary ElastoMesh forms this chair’s back, offering excellent sweat-resistance, elasticity, and comfort.
Unlike ordinary ergonomic chairs, this model features proprietary Pro Wheels, which are super-silent and offer a comfortable sitting experience.
Four-dimensional armrests, the headrest, and dynamic lumbar support are all fully adjustable. However, I found that the armrests are a bit too petite for my taste. Be that as it may, this is a wonderful chair that’s worth the buck, despite its minor imperfections.
- Fully adjustable armrests, lumbar support, recline, and headrest features
- Silent BIFMA-tested roller wheels
- 5-point aluminum base
- Excellent level of sturdiness and comfort
- Proprietary Elasto-Mesh material
- Small armrests
- Can only support up to 275 pounds of weight
Under $700
So you might be a little more strapped for cash but the thought of comprising comfort and health is distressful. Right? Don’t worry because we have you covered.
7. La-Z-Boy Hyland Executive Office Chair
Leaning a bit more towards the aesthetics of traditional office chairs, La-Z-Boy’s Hyland is a classy chair for classy people. In addition to being a stylish addition to your home office or workspace, it’s also exquisitely comfortable, highly adjustable, and offers deep memory foam cushioning.
The Hyland office chair is made of exceptionally sturdy materials and rocks black-bonded upholstery made of sturdy, but comfortable leather. The memory foam adapts to the body, providing natural support in the form of posture correction and spine support.
Furthermore, it packs built-in lumbar support that, even though it can’t be adjusted, does the job phenomenally well. Hyland’s base is also outstandingly strong while its roller wheels are both silent and durable.
In my opinion, the cushioned armrests are the main reasons why this is one of the leading ergonomic office chairs on the current market. That and its stunning looks are enough to validate its price tag, although it’s not nearly as expensive as some of the models in this guide.
- Elegant aesthetics; available in three color variations
- Made of excellent quality mahogany wood and bonded in black leather
- Memory foam reinforces the comfort and support leather naturally provides
- Swiveling base
- No dedicated headrest
- Non-adjustable lumbar support
- Can get quite hot during summertime if you’re not using an air conditioner
8. ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair
If you liked Eurotech’s Seating Ergo Elite, you’ll probably love ErgoTune’s Ergonomic Office Chair as well. It is fairly different from its boutique “look-alike”, but it’s more affordable while offering a broad range of unique benefits.
The first thing I’d like you to know about this ergonomic office chair is that nearly all of its parts are either patented or patent-pending. ErgoTune did extensive research and created several highly innovative solutions for people that are struggling with bad posture, back pain, or improper spine alignment, and thus this chair was born.
There aren’t many mesh chair manufacturers that experimented with the waterfall seat design coupled with mesh material, but ErgoTune did and was highly successful with that venture.
Although it may not look too “modern”, the drop-down design of this chair’s seat is meant to provide the same benefits you’d otherwise reap from leather waterfall seats – less pressure on your legs and the back of your knees.
The Atlas™-enhanced lumbar support is one of the best features of this chair. It automatically adjusts to the person sitting on the chair, quickly pinpointing the best angle while you don’t have to lift a finger. That hides a potential flaw, though, as you don’t have too many options left if you aren’t satisfied with the lumbar support’s “choice”.
Another unique feature of ErgoTune’s Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair is the TriTune™ Headrest. Unlike regular headrests, the one supplied to this model can be height, depth, and width adjusted.
The entire chair features a special kind of hybrid mesh material called DuraWeave™. This material was derived from premium polyester & fabric, and this combination grants it enhanced sturdiness and flexibility.
The five-dimensional GyroBrace™ armrests take the cake as far as adjustabilities are of concern, as they can pivot and swivel up to 270 degrees, as well as be height, width, and depth adjusted.
The ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair weighs about 67.9 pounds and its dimensions measure 27 x 30 x 47 inches; it’s a bit larger than your average mesh chair, but fortunately, that is its only drawback worth mentioning.
Other than that, I’m not particularly thrilled about its aesthetic components, but all people have different tastes. If you’re searching for a simple, highly functional, and versatile ergonomic office chair, look no further than ErgoTune’s Supreme.
- Numerous patented innovations that you won’t find elsewhere
- Five-dimensional armrests that can swivel, rotate and be height, depth, and width adjusted
- Special DuraWeave™ mesh construction offers superior durability without compromising its lightweight and flexible properties
- Automatically adjusting lumbar support function
- Comes in Coral Red, Charcoal Black, and Aqua Blue color variations
- Lightweight
- Looks fairly similar to any other mesh-made ergonomic office chair
- Manually adjusting the lumbar support may sometimes feel like a chore
9. Steelcase Series 2 Office Chair
The Steelcase Series 2 Office Chair comes with all the bells and whistles of the Series 1 chair (see below), but with a few tweaks and upgrades. With this chair, you can opt for one that’s built for carpet or built for hard floors. You can move about to either surface with either chair, but the wheel locks will be slightly different, which gives you more control.
Unlike most, this is a beautiful chair if you’re on the taller side. With a max seating height of 21.5 inches, it’s one of the tallest chairs available (without special orders, which can get really expensive really quickly). However, the lowest seat height is 16.5, so if you’re 5 feet or under, you might have trouble reaching the ground with this chair.
The double-padded mesh seat allows you to stay cool even in the hottest office situations, and the foam-filled lumbar support keeps you upright and comfortable. So no more slouching and back pain with this chair at your disposal.
This is also a chair built to last.
Nothing is more frustrating than buying furniture and having it wear out after just a few months. Well, this chair comes with a 12-year manufacturer warranty, so no need to worry.
- Easy to assemble
- Adjust to your personal preference settings
- Double-mesh backing allows for exceptional support without giving way under the weight of your back
- Plenty of space under the chair for your feet
- Helps you stay comfortable for longer periods of time
- Perfect chair if you’re above 6 feet (although maybe not so great if you’re under 5)
- Strong frame made of durable materials
- No head or foot rests
- Not a small chair, so shorter individuals may want to consider another option
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $500
Contrary to what you may expect, there are some worthy and inexpensive alternatives to pricier ergonomic office chairs.
10. Steelcase Series 1 Work Office Chair
Are you tired of the bland color options available on the home office chair market? Do you wish there was something more than white, black, and a fancy name for “gray”? If that sounds like you, the Steelcase Series 1 Work Office Chair will be right up your alley.
This chair comes in almost a dozen color options, including a variety of shades from licorice (black) to concord, wasabi, and blue jay (just to name a few).
The chair also rocks for anyone taller than 6 feet. Thanks to the 21.5-inch max seat height, you’ll feel much more at home in this chair than most you’ve come across.
This Amazon’s Choice chair is 100% polyester, so it’s light and easy to move about the office. With wheels designed specifically for carpeting and an adjustable back, arms, lumbar support, and seat height, you can customize your home office chair to perfectly fit your needs. After all, when sitting in your desk chair for hours at a time, you’ll want a comfortable chair. This one checks most of your boxes.
- Designed for carpeting, but works on hardwood floors as well
- The slender design under the seat gives ample room for legs, so if you like to tuck your feet under your chair, you can easily do so with this one
- Solid seat height, which makes it perfect for taller individuals
- Robust frame
- Amazon’s Choice
- No head or footrests
- The back is on the shorter side, so you’re going to miss out on some of that neck support, which can be a bummer if you have sore neck issues
11. La-Z-Boy Fairmont Big and Tall Executive Office Chair
Most ergonomic office chairs under $700 look and perform relatively poorly compared to their boutique alternatives which cost twice (or more) as much. If I had to pick a single model that does not fit this description, it would have to be La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont.
If you’ve been reading through the previous reviews, you’re probably familiar with the brand and its heavily acclaimed Hyland Executive Chair. Fairmont is a bit more affordable while offering you nearly the same benefits and quality. It is dissimilar to its pricier cousin mainly in terms of aesthetics.
Let’s open with the essential features of Fairmont. It’s a full-leather ergonomic chair with dimensions that measure 33 inches in depth by 27.75 inches in width by 43.25 inches in height. Fairmont weighs around 61 pounds while being able to support people weighing 400 pounds tops.
La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont does not have built-in lumbar support for the same reason other high-quality leather-made ergonomic chairs don’t – the thick, comfy leather is enough to support the user’s lower back.
What makes Fairmont different from similarly-priced office chairs regarding this feature (or the lack thereof) is that it sports dense, contoured cushions. The thick leather surface is resistant to scratching while the gentle foam underneath provides good support.
The same type of genuine leather is placed atop the built-in armrests. These features boast a highly elegant design and allow you to place your entire forearms and palms on them. The armrests can’t be tweaked in any way, sadly, but they’re spacious enough to cater to the needs of virtually anyone.
In my opinion, the main feature of La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont ergonomic office chair is its seat. It packs five layers of foam, each serving a different purpose.
Starting with the base, where the firmest foam is used. The second layer is much softer and was used to provide extra cushioning. The third layer enhances the overall comfort while the fourth and fifth layers are made of memory foam and poly fiber foam.
The combination of these layers provides outstanding comfort, back support, and cushioning across the board; safely tucked behind leather upholstery, you won’t have to worry about refilling and replacing foam materials anytime soon.
The only adjustable feature of La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont is its seat. You can tilt it, adjust its height, or recline it.
Durability-wise, there are hardly many ergonomic office chairs that can boast the level of sturdiness that Fairmont possesses. Its base and armrests are made of industrial-grade wood and are polished to a shine while the leather upholstery is equally robust.
I love adjustable features on my ergonomic chairs, and I wasn’t too enthusiastic about Fairmont when I discovered it lags behind pricier models in this department. However, the silver lining here is that it is exceptionally easy to assemble (and disassemble), plus its multi-layered design offers zone-specific support and comfort, so I wouldn’t change anything about it.
Its aesthetics alone are enough to earn Fairmont a high rating on my list, but the main reason why I consider it to be one of the best ergonomic office chairs under $700 is that you’d have to look far and wide to find a more practical chair for this money.
Even though it’s the priciest ergonomic chair in this section, I’d still dub it the best choice for people searching for a beautiful, remarkably comfortable chair.
- Stunningly gorgeous design
- Simple to install and use because it comes supplied with only a handful of features
- Outstanding “passive” lumbar and head support
- Classic-style oversized and thoroughly padded armrests
- A beautiful polished wood finish gives it an elegant look
- Spacious and cozy
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $400
Okay, so we’re slowly getting to the less expensive range on the price spectrum. Fortunately, there are still some great alternatives that’ll give you a great amount of value for what you pay.
12. Neatfi Apollo Chair
Neatfi is a fairly well-known Amazon merchant retailing home accessories. While searching for a new LED lamp, I came across the Apollo chair and was pleasantly surprised by its simplistic design, so I decided to dig a bit deeper.
The dimensions of the Apollo chair measure 20.07 x 27.55 x 50 inches and weighs only 44 pounds. Despite being so light, it can support up to 278 pounds with ease.
I was instantly pulled in by its high back, four-dimensional armrests, and elevated headrest, most of which are features you’d normally see in ergonomic chairs under $700. The best way to describe Apollo is that it has pretty much everything most similarly-priced models have, only better.
Starting with the headrest, Apollo rocks a 2D detachable head support. You can move it backward and forwards, but you can also remove it if it bothers you in any way.
The second essential feature of Apollo I’d like to mention is its mesh back. Woven mesh fabric is placed on a sturdy nylon back frame, providing you with constant ventilation while ensuring you’re comfortable.
The minimal spacing between each mesh line trades a speck of breathability for extra sturdiness, making Apollo’s back more resistant to scratches and ripping.
As far as armrests are of concern, they can be adjusted in four ways. You can move the armrests vertically or horizontally, pivot them, or swivel the entire arms up to 270 degrees. The armrests aren’t padded, are fairly small, and are made of quality plastic materials. Subjectively, I value the fact that they are almost fully adjustable more than how comfortable they feel.
Neatfi’s Apollo Chair rocks a dedicated lumbar support feature, which can be repositioned vertically or horizontally.
The lumbar support pillow is decently large but, in my opinion, it could’ve been just slightly taller. I earned quite a few back problems from sitting 10-12 hours a day, and nowadays I always search for larger back pillows that could support my entire lower back rather than just its key zones. Nevertheless, similar effects can be achieved with Apollo’s lumbar support if you find a good position for it.
Apollo’s back can recline up to 133 degrees while it originally sits at 110 degrees. Its base is made of heavy-duty chrome while its seat boasts tilt lock & slide adjustments.
Can it compare to La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont? Absolutely, even despite the fact that they’re more different than similar. Neatfi’s Apollo Chair is my recommendation for people that prefer mesh over leather, and who want to benefit from extended adjustability options.
- Remarkably lightweight, yet it can support up to 278 pounds
- An array of adjustable features, all of which are very easy to use
- A surprisingly comfortable mesh seat
- Robust frame made of heavy-duty chrome materials
- Bladed wheels
- Only comes in black
- Fairly short lumbar support, although it is highly adjustable
13. Bestuhl J17 Home Office Desk Chair
Bestuhl is a young manufacturer of high-quality office chairs, and even though its selection is quite modest, you’re likely to find everything you’re looking for in the J17 Home Office Desk Chair.
The J17 chair is manufactured in a special facility in Korea, and according to the manufacturer, each unit needs to pass a series of rigorous tests before being shipped to the market. More specifically, J17 Home Office Desk Chair must endure at least 300 pounds of weight over 30,000 cycle tests, meaning that its reliability is almost unparalleled.
The dimensions of Bestuhl’s J17 measure 19.7 x 20.3 x 45 inches and it weighs only 44 pounds. Its back is a bit short for my taste, but it should be perfect for any person of average height.
Just like my previous pick, this model is a full-mesh office chair that boasts a high level of adjustability. Speaking of which, you can tweak the seat’s depth, the lumbar support’s height, the height of the headrest, and the position of its built-in armrests.
Only the latter offers more than a single adjustable dimension; the armrests can be moved laterally, vertically, or horizontally. Sadly, they can’t rotate, and the arms of J17 can’t swivel, but those are the only two drawbacks I managed to spot on this ergonomic office chair.
What I liked the most about this model is its ultra-wide seat. It spans approximately 20.3 inches and is about 19.7 inches deep. Another great feature tightly linked to the seat is the integrated adjustable lumbar pillow.
You can vertically reposition the lumbar support, and it is considerably taller and wider than average. As I briefly mentioned a second ago, this is an essential quality that people with back pains and chronic conditions will benefit the most from.
The usual benefits of high ventilation and breathability associated with mesh-built ergonomic office chairs are yours to reap, but what truly separates J17 from similarly-priced models is the fact that it comes mostly pre-assembled.
For comparison’s sake, La-Z-Boy’s Fairmont is super-easy to whip up, but that’s not the case with Neatfi’s Apollo (which is generally easier to assemble than most mesh chairs). Since most of J17’s parts are already put in place, you won’t need more than five to ten minutes to enjoy all the advantages it has to offer.
As for aesthetics, Bestuhl’s J17 looks remarkably modern and sleek. It comes in two color options, including the white frame with grey fabric and the black frame with black fabric; I warmly recommend the former, as its bright, elegant colors can fit the ambiance of almost any workspace.
To summarize, I think Bestuhl’s J17 is more than valuable for the money because it covers all the bases of a quality ergonomic office chair. It is highly adjustable, beautiful, very comfortable in the long term, breathable, and simple to use.
- Excellent build quality
- Modern aesthetics; comes available in two color variations
- Fairly large lumbar support pillow which is fully adjustable
- Comfortable sliding seat
- Fairly spacious
- Lightweight and easy to assemble
- Tiny armrests
- Flimsy plastic rolling wheels
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $200
14. Mid-Back Mesh Chair by Flash Furniture
The Flash Furniture Mid-Back Mesh Chair is a rare find: a well-reviewed, comfortable desk chair that fits any budget.
This chair features a sturdy five-wheel base with an ergonomically contoured mesh back that gives you the support you need to get through a full day of work.
One of the most surprising things about this chair is that it’s sized well for larger people taller than six feet, which is a rare find in a home office chair priced under $200.
- Extremely affordable chair
- Comes in a variety of selectable colors
- Official Amazon’s Choice recipient
- While mid-back is the highlighted option, a “High Back” chair is available, so even if you’re well over 6 feet tall, this chair will be a great addition.
- The back is made out of a mesh material that allows for improved airflow
- Built-in lumbar support system
- Arms can be removed but are not as adjustable (in height) as other chairs on the list
- Fewer adjustable features
- No dedicated neck support
- The curve in the seat may not be as comfortable for wider girth individuals
Best Ergonomic Office Chairs for Neck Pain
Chronic neck pain is a common complaint among people who spend hours a day in a chair, either bent over paperwork or working in front of a monitor. The right ergonomic chair can help correct poor posture by supporting spine health. The best office chair for neck pain offers support for the spine and, most importantly, adjustable height and tilt to avoid craning your neck to see a computer screen.
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $1100
Other than back pain and issues with posture, there are ergonomic chairs to help relieve neck pains. These come with incredible orthopedic features, tilt tensions, and mesh designs to give you the right mix of quality with comfort.
15. X-Chair Management Office Chair X3
I wanted to give people who are searching for the top ergonomic office chairs for neck pain a slightly different alternative to AKRacing’s Onyx Deluxe, and in my humble opinion, that is X-Chair’s X3 Management Office Chair.
X-Chair is an established manufacturer of ergonomic, highly adjustable task and office chairs, and X3 is one of the latest models in the brand’s catalog.
The dimensions of X-Chair’s X3 Management Office Chair measure 21.5 inches in depth by 26.5 inches in width by 65 inches in height, and it weighs 60 pounds. X3 can comfortably support users weighing up to 330 pounds.
To make this model, X-Chair used a variety of cutting-edge technologies and made some interesting innovations in the space of office ergonomics. The Flex Mesh Technology was designed to provide a sturdier, more dependable alternative to standard knit and woven mesh materials while retaining the usual breathability and ventilation.
FMT technology was primarily used with earlier X-Chair models, but for the X3, the brand reinforced this with Advanced Tensile Recovery (ATR) fabric material. The combination of these two features has resulted in outstanding comfort, natural support for the body, and premium elasticity.
Furthermore, X-Chair knows that people suffering from neck pain often struggle with mobility issues as well and wanted to ensure the users of the X3 don’t have to spend too much time on maintenance. The mesh on the X3 ergonomic office chair is highly resistant to water and stains while the base is made of robust aluminum.
Another interesting feature of X-Chair’s X3 is called Extensive Variable Technology, which was deployed with the lumbar and headrest support. Essentially, X-Chair leveraged this piece of advanced tech to push the envelope of adjustability in its essential supportive features, allowing you to tweak the position of both lumbar and headrest cushions with greater ease.
Aesthetics-wise, X3 looks quite minimalistic, although I would say its black version is remarkably elegant and simple. The other color style is called Glacier.
- Exceptional headrest and lumbar support quality
- Highly comfortable for long-term use
- Made of sturdy mesh and fabric materials
- Robust aluminum base with easy-rolling wheels
- Easy to assemble
- Armrests are 4-dimensional, but their adjustability range is fairly low
- Pricey
16. La-Z-Boy Edmonton Big and Tall Executive Office Chair
The last La-Z-Boy office chair on the list is one of the brand’s most affordable products. This is Edmonton, and even though it looks quite a bit like its pricier siblings, there are a few key differences that set them apart, but let’s start with the basics first.
The dimensions of Edmonton measure 33 inches in depth by 27.75 inches in width by 43.25 inches in height. It weighs around 61.17 pounds and can easily support up to 350 pounds.
The oversized head pillow on Fairmont is replaced by a smaller, more sculpted one on the Edmonton chair. Since both models do not offer any adjustability in this department, Edmonton is better for people that rarely use the recline feature and simply want their entire body to be supported by plush-like leather.
The main similarity between Edmonton and other La-Z-Boy chair models on my list is that they are all made of premium quality leather material. Genuine cowhide leather is refined to perfection before it is fashioned into a luxurious upholstery for this chair.
I’ve already talked about the infamous La-Z-Boy seats, most of which are built more or less in the same manner. Edmonton is not an exception and rocks a 5-layered seat comprised of Comfort Core & Memory Foam materials covered by durable cowhide leather.
The special finish on all the leather surfaces was not only meant to make this ergonomic office chair look better; it has also softened it to improve the overall comfort.
I’m not particularly thrilled about its seat not being adjustable, but it is 21.5 inches wide and almost 20 inches deep, so it’s super-spacious and wide enough to cater to the needs of anyone.
Although it does look amazing, Edmonton only comes in the Biscuit Brown color. In my opinion, the aesthetics of the Edmonton office chair are fit for executives and other higher-ups while its price tag is exceptionally approachable.
This is what makes it so great for the money; the combination of comfort, durability, and style. The downside is that barely any feature Edmonton is supplied with is adjustable. I mainly recommend it to people that are searching for top-quality leather ergonomic office chairs and are particularly keen on La-Z-Boy models but can’t afford the more expensive models in the brand’s catalog.
- Very easy to assemble with basic tools
- Can support up to 350 pounds of weight while being remarkably light itself
- Luxurious leather upholstery on the sides, seat, back, and headrest
- Outstanding cushioning substitutes for built-in supports
- A beautiful frame made of polished wood
- Large upholstered armrests
- Poor adjustability
- Only comes in one color
17. AKRacing Office Series Onyx Deluxe Executive Real Leather Desk Chair
Up until this point, I’ve reviewed some of the finest ergonomic office chairs at various price points. I wanted to shift the focus a bit to the ergonomic chairs that can help people suffering from neck pain, and as honorable mentions, I’ll present to you two additional options which I deem as the ultimate solutions for the aforementioned problem.
Let’s start with AKRacing’s Office Series Onyx Deluxe. This is a boutique leather office chair equipped with a variety of exquisite features, boasting peerless build quality and unparalleled adjustability, albeit at a fairly hefty price tag.
Regarding its size, the dimensions of AKRacing’s Onyx Deluxe measure 20 inches by 34.25 inches by 53.5 inches. It can support up to 330 pounds, although the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit is 286 pounds for optimal comfort.
This ergonomic office chair rocks a heavy-duty metal frame coated with anti-corrosion paint. Sturdy and resilient, all you need to do is perform routine maintenance with a dry sponge or a piece of cloth and a bit of mild soap, and it should last you decades.
Two types of leather were used in the manufacturing process of Onyx Deluxe, including PU leather on the back and Brazilian high-grain leather on the front. Refined with cutting-edge tools, these materials are substantially smoother compared to raw leather while retaining its sturdiness and longevity.
The armrests supplied with AKRacing’s Onyx Deluxe are 4-dimensional. In addition to being able to move laterally, horizontally, and vertically, they can also rotate. I would’ve loved to see the swiveling arms function, but considering how well-made this feature is, I wouldn’t deduct anything from its overall rating.
What makes Onyx Deluxe the best ergonomic office chair for people suffering from neck pain is its unparalleled body support.
The seat was made wider, deeper, and slightly taller than average, plus you can adjust its position with the tilt lock function. Additionally, it reclines up to 180 degrees, meaning that you can roll back and take a nap in comfort.
A dedicated lumbar support pillow is integrated into the lower section of this chair’s back, which is also highly adjustable. The cushion is fairly large and offers superb cushioning to the lower back area.
The back of this chair is covered with top-quality leather which, unlike basic types of leather, does not retain heat for extended periods. It is considerably more breathable and more pleasurable to use year-round.
AKRacing’s Onyx Deluxe also rocks a dedicated fully adjustable headrest cushion. Just like the lumbar pillow, the headrest is decently sized and allows you to rest both your head and your neck on it.
There are no notable drawbacks regarding this ergonomic office chair aside from the fact that it costs a small fortune. As for its value, people struggling with chronic neck pain, headaches, or nerve-related pain in these regions will be able to alleviate nearly all stress by using the Onyx Deluxe.
- Dedicated headrest and lumbar cushion supports
- Ultra-soft yet highly durable PU & Brazilian high-grain leather construction
- Four-dimensional armrests
- Outstandingly comfortable and adjustable seat
- Equipped with a robust heavy-duty metal base
- Very expensive
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $200
Below, we’ve provided the best ergonomic desk chair for your office that would not cost you more than $200. It might be on the more extreme end of inexpensive ergonomic chairs featured today, but the Boliss Ergonomic Office Computer Desk Chair makes it to our list for several undeniable features.
18. Boliss Ergonomic Office Computer Desk Chair
The fact that a chair is affordable doesn’t tell us everything, and in certain cases, it doesn’t necessarily imply that the model is poorly made and comprised of flimsy materials. In fact, Boliss’s Ergonomic office computer desk chair is something that never belonged to this price range as far as value and quality are concerned.
With a ventilated back and excellent support to the lumbar area, neck, and arms, the only thing this chair lacks is dedicated support for the legs to make it as competitive as boutique models.
In my research, I’ve found that the average supportive capacity of a $200 office chair is roughly 175 pounds. Needless to say, the fact that this one can support persons weighing up to 400 pounds speaks volumes about its durability.
- Full adjustments to armrests and the seat
- Available in two color styles
- Made of soft, but sturdy fabric material
- Can support up to 400 pounds of weight
- Does not feature a dedicated headrest or leg rests
- Dated tilt tension mechanism
Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under $100
We have finally arrived at the cheapest end of the price spectrum and, fortunately, there’s still an ergonomic office chair for your back comfort.
19. AmazonBasics Mid-Back Office Chair
Shopping for an office chair on a budget does not mean you need to sacrifice comfort and health.
The AmazonBasics Mid-Back Office Chair features adjustable seat height that’s combined with an upholstered black bonded leather and padded seat and back for all-day comfort.
This chair has dual-wheel casters for easy movement and it is the best office chair you can get for under $100 by the one and only Amazon itself.
- Leather-padded
- Official Amazon’s Choice recipient
- BIFMA certified
- Adjustable seat height
- Extremely affordable
- Arms are not adjustable
- Not made with a mesh material so airflow is limited
- Seat padding is limited
- The chair is designed for average height individuals. If you’re 6 feet or taller, the chair will not be tall enough for you.
FAQ About the Best Ergonomic Office Chairs
Below is a list of some common queries that will put you on the fast track to identifying the right chairs for your back pain.
What are the best brands for ergonomic office chairs?
Some of the best brands for ergonomic office chairs are AmazonBasics and Herman Miller. This does not mean that an off-brand chair won’t serve you well, but these brands have plenty of reviews and hefty warranties backing up their quality.
What is the most comfortable ergonomic chair?
The most comfortable ergonomic home office chair may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, but that does not mean less expensive chairs are a bad bargain. In our opinion, the Neatfi Apollo Chairs is one of the most comfortable ergonomic chairs available around. However, the Embody Chair by Herman Miller and many more follow close behind.
What is the best office chair for sitting for long hours?
The best office chairs for sitting long hours should come with key features of adjustable seat arms and height and a design that mimics the curves of your body. This article features some of the best ergonomic office chairs for your back.
Which chair is the best for your back?
Ergonomic office chairs with adjustable arms and seat height and a curvy back that aligns with your spine are the best chairs for your back. Adjustable lumbar support also acts as a guarantee of pain-free working days to come.
What are the best ergonomic office chairs for back pain?
The Neatfi Apollo Chairs and the Embody Chair by Herman Miller are some of the most comfortable ergonomic chairs for your back.
What is the best Orthopedic office chair?
The Neatfi Apollo Chairs and Steelcase Leap Fabric Chair are some of the best orthopedic office chairs.
What is the best high-back ergonomic office chair?
The Steelcase gesture chair, Steelcase Series 2 Office Chair, and the Herman Miller chairs are designed to support a wide variety of body sizes. They provide both low and high back positions, making them a winner for most people.
Conclusion
If you work at a desk day in and day out, you definitely need to invest in a good ergonomic chair for the sake of your health and comfort.
As discussed above, Herman Miller chairs are top-notch and backed by years of research and testing (see here). If these are out of your price range, we’ve covered a whole lot of others, so make sure to keep this guide on hand when making a purchase.
Do share in the comments below and let us know which chair you like the most. As always, your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
