Cheap office chairs can make you feel like you’re stuck in an uncomfortable coach seat during a cross-country flight. Quality chairs, however, are like first class: ergonomically designed to provide comfort and support for extended use. That's why we've put in 175 hours of research to determine which is the best office chair for most people, including studying what experts and several body types testers have to say. Since 2015, Steelcase Gesture has been our top pick.

The Steelcase Gesture's cost may seem steep at over $1,000, but for those who spend long hours at the desk, it's totally worth it. Stable support, adjustable seat and back, as well as lasting comfort have continued to make this chair a Wirecutter favorite since our initial recommendation in 2015. Through testing with a range of Wirecutter staff, it proved to be one of the most efficient, supportive and enduring chairs we've encountered: the backrest, materials-quality and reliable adjustment knobs all deliver performance that's stood the test of time. The Gesture also offers more ways to personalize its look in your workspace than any other chair we tried.

The Herman Miller Aeron is a timeless piece, renowned for its comfort and longevity. Its breathable mesh back and seat make it a superior choice to the Gesture if you tend to run hot or work in an un-airconditioned environment. In a nutshell: If you're a desk typist wanting ergonomic support and a comfy spot for long hours of work, the Aeron is a great pick. Its armrests are less adjustable than the Gesture though, so if you need your arms propping up for other tasks such as tablet reading, the Gesture may be a better choice. It takes up less room than the Gesture, easy to manoeuvre and lint free. Having been around for so long, we can vouch for its durability and you can find a great pre-owned version for a bargain at an office-furniture liquidation store. It comes in three distinctive sizes, and we'd advise checking the fit guide (PDF) before you buy.

If budget is a concern, the Herman Miller Sayl provides similar comfort, durability, and lumbar support for barely half the cost of our top picks. While it's not as adjustable as the Steelcase Gesture, it works wonders for a variety ofpeople no matter where they fall on the size spectrum. To boot, its plastic-webbed back will keep you cool, and you can make the chair stand out or blend in with your space due to its range of colors and the attention it attracts.

If your budget is tighter than $500 or even $1,000 for a chair, the HON Ignition 2.0 could be the pick for you. This office chair gives you plenty of the usual adjustments - seat-depth, tilt tension, tilt lock, seat height, and height-adjustable arms - without trying your pocketbook too hard. Despite its cheaper price tag, it's surprisingly comfortable for day-long work sessions, with supportive lumbar support (just make sure the item description says "adjustable lumbar" before you purchase). Those on the short side should be wary, though, as the seat's lowest height is 17 inches above floor level. The build also isn't as solid as pricier models, and won't last quite as long, but under $300, you won't find a better summery solution.

Everything We Recommend

Why you should trust us

Melanie Pinola, a senior staff writer for Wirecutter, has extensive experience working from home. She's been writing about tech and productivity topics for more than two decades, including for Lifehacker, PCWorld, and Laptop Mag. In her spare time, she dedicates herself to researching and testing office furniture and hardware, from standing desks and footrests to ergonomic keyboards.

We've gained invaluable insight from interviews with experts like Professor Alan Hedge, Director of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Lab at Cornell; Rani Lueder, Founder of Humanics Ergonomics; and Jenny Pynt, a Physiotherapist and author of A History of Seating, 3000BC to 2000 AD: Function versus Aesthetics and The Design and Use of Healthy Seating. Their expertise has enabled us to develop the best approaches to ergonomics.

Since '13, we've questioned almost a hundred Wirecutter personnel to assess & report on multiple chairs. For the latest tests, nine people examined 10 chairs over at least 1 90-min stretch-according to Cornell U. Ergonomics Dept. guidelines-or a full workday. Additionally, staff members who've employed/owned our picks were surveyed for extended-term use notes.

Who this is for

When it comes to purchasing an office chair, it's just like selecting a mattress- since it's something you'll spend approximately 14,000 hours over the next 10 years using, it's vital that it keeps you comfortable and doesn't strain your back. Although 35 hours a week is the minimum you ought to be residing in a chair, many of us often stay in our seats for longer due to overtime, office calls over the weekend, days where we eat lunch at our desks, or for leisure activities.

It's clear now that sitting too long in a chair is hazardous to your health, and a subpar chair can only exacerbate the situation by forcing your body into unhealthy postures. Thus, if you're setting up a home office, investing in an ergonomic chair is important to make your work hours healthier and more comfortable.

If you don't spend much time at your desk, you don't need to focus on ergonomic and adjustability features when shopping for an office chair. Feel free to buy a chair that looks comfortable and appealing. Others might be content with a kitchen or dining chair or even a sofa. Consider this guide if you regularly spend full-time hours in an office chair.

An ergonomic expert, Alan Hedge, illustrated how to find the perfect chair is similar to searching for a nice pair of shoes: Fashion, material, quality and style should be taken into account. Nevertheless, the most essential thing is to choose an item that you're comfortable with. Everyone has distinct body shapes, so various types of chairs are readily available. However, it's always wiser to personally experience each chair before buying. You could possibly check out an office-furniture renovation store or an architectural salvage shop such as Habitat for Humanity's ReStore, where you can find chairs of unprecedented styles. In case that's not plausible, a return policy of approximately 30 days will help you take the chance to make a decision from home. Therefore, our guide will allow you to make an educated choice based on the size of your body.

How we picked and tested

Before our last big testing round in 2019, we carefully considered a selection of 50 to craft a top 10. We extensively researched manufacturer sites, reviewed past models of our guide, and got opinions from ergonomics specialists to know what to search for in an office chair that would comfortably support your body whether you're sitting short or long.

• Comfort: All the experts we’ve talked to have stressed that every person’s body is different, and finding the perfect, most comfortable office chair is a subjective endeavor that also depends on the type of work you do, your body size, and how you sit. We evaluated office chairs on seat, backrest, and armrest comfort—and how our bodies felt after we got up from a chair was just as important as how we felt while we were sitting.
• Lumbar and back support: The most basic office chairs don’t offer any customizability for lumbar and back support—they’re one size fits all—but because people have different torso lengths and lumbar curvatures, adjustability is key, according to Alan Hedge. A good backrest will support you regardless of the angle you sit in, whether you’re sitting straight up or, as ergonomic experts recommend, reclined at 100 to 110 degrees.
• Ease of reclining: Reclining is important for “sustainable sitting,” according to our experts, as it lets you move your body a bit more while you’re seated. Your office chair should let you easily recline without making you feel like you’re in a pilates class.
• Adjustability: A more adjustable office chair ensures a better fit for a wider range of people—and makes it more likely that you’ll be happy with the chair you buy. We look for chairs with at least adjustable seat height but prefer office chairs that also let you adjust the arm height, tilt, and seat depth. In addition, the best chairs allow you to customize the tilt distance and the amount of force required to lean the chair back.
• Durability and materials: A lot of minor things can go wrong with a chair—the arms might come loose, a knob could crack, or a piece may break off entirely. Cheaper chairs notoriously develop weird squeaks and creaking sounds over time. If a material feels cheap or seems as if it will crack under stress on day one, chances are good that it’ll be utterly destroyed by day 500. Seat cushions, in particular, can give out quickly, with cheaper foam leaving you with an office chair that feels saggy on day 400 even if it felt supportive on day one. Caster quality comes into play if you want to smoothly roll your chair around every now and then—if you have a sit-and-stand desk setup, for example, or if you want to win a fire extinguisher roller-chair derby.
• Price: The difference in quality between a $40 office chair from a no-name manufacturer and an $800 chair from a respected company is significant. Most notably, office chairs below $200 are made with cheaper plastic and metal, have fixed armrests and seat depths, and also tend to look bland and have shorter or less-inclusive warranties. Starting around $300, you get more-adjustable chairs built with high-quality materials. And at $1,000, you get warranties that replace nearly any worn parts for over a decade, a wider variety of color and accessory options to choose from, and higher-end materials such as more substantial foam padding and finer adjustments for lumbar support.
• Warranty: Whereas a typical no-name chair might be covered for one or two years, most high-end chairs come with at least a 10-year warranty. We look for office chairs with at least a five-year warranty, preferably longer. Similarly, whereas many expensive chairs have a warranty that covers just about anything that breaks, cheaper chairs have limited warranties that don’t cover normal wear and tear.
• Appearance: We prioritize comfort over appearance, but we understand that many people with home offices are put off by the bland blacks and grays of most office furniture. We ask our panel of testers what they think about the aesthetics of each chair they try, and we consider fabric choice, color, and other customization options to be a bonus.

ones without armrests and with static backrests Ergonomists advised us to stay away from two types of chairs: those without armrests and those with static backrests.

• Executive-style chairs: Jenny Pynt told us to “avoid chairs that force your upper spine, that part between the shoulder blades, forward.” Pynt continued: “So-called ‘executive’ chairs often do this.” Basically, you should choose something that’s supporting your back, not sculpting it.
• Chairs that lack backrests or have partial backrests: Pynt pointed out a few other categories that often spell trouble, recommending against stools and other seats without backrests, at least as full-time accommodations, “because no matter how virtuous you are, you will slump.”

In our 2019 round of tests, we asked staffers of all different body types -- from a 5-foot-2 writer to a 6-foot-2 editor -- to test a selection of chairs at our New York office. Each participant used a modified version of an ergonomic seating evaluation form from Cornell University (PDF) and rated the chairs on several comfort measures on a scale of 0 (unacceptable) to 10 (excellent). We compiled additional data from extended periods of use by our staff, who had been sitting in these chairs for months before making their final decisions.

Every tester used the same process to evaluate the office chairs - assessing comfort, back support, alterability, and toughness. We assessed each chair by typing on computers, playing video games, writing emails, attending meetings, leaning back to think and more. They were operated correctly and incorrectly, knobs were twisted fiercely, and they were carelessly wheeled around the office for fourteen days.

In like manner, over the course of a few weeks in my home office, I put in extra effort to test three office chairs that cost less than $400 - the HON Convergence, HON Ignition 2.0, and Fully Desk Chair. Editor Ben Keough (who is 6-foot-1) concurrently tested the HON Ignition 2.0 and the Fully Desk Chair in his own workstation.

Our pick: Steelcase Gesture

The Steelcase Gesture is a supremely comfortable office chair with a wide range of adjustability to fit different body types. After testing numerous other chairs, going back to the Gesture was compared to a relaxing day at the spa by one panelist. The Gesture earned the highest marks across all metrics, and is composed of quality materials with a 12-year manufacturer's warranty. Both aesthetically pleasing and available in numerous colors, this chair is sure to meet any decorative style.

The Gesture's cushions really stand out in terms of comfort. Our testers noticed it was the perfect mix of firm and soft, vastly superior to budget chairs that were harder than a wooden chair. Wirecutter staff who have owned the Gesture for five years can vouch for its continued comfort, with the cushion, back padding, and armrests still in fantastic condition after all this time.

This chair is perfect for a variety of tasks—it's designed for more than just sitting at a desk. Our testers, who range from writers to editors to photographers with different body types, all found it to be comfortable in any position, whether they were crouching over a desk to take handwritten notes, disregarding ergonomics by sitting's edge or reclining in meetings.

The Gesture boasts lumbar and back support on par with its peers at this price point. But where it really stands out is its comfort level when you recline and shift position. Most other chairs tilt when you do so, whereas the Gesture has a back that's designed to flex according to the shape of your spine when reclining. You probably don't know it, but reclining in this chair does you a favor. According to Rani Lueder, "Leaning back not only reduces the pressure on your spine, but opens the thigh-torso angle. You also promote circulation by changing your position."

All of our testers unanimously rated the recline of Gesture as the most comfortable among the chairs tested. Instead of having to continually push back with your feet or use your core muscles to maintain the angle, with this chair you simply push back and the angle is retained.

The Gesture can be personalized to any body type and task, boasting an impressive range of adjustability. Knobs on the right side grant control over seat depth, tilt tension, leaning range, and seat height. Moreover, the Gesture stands out due to its ball-and-socket-style armrests – unlocking them with a tab beneath enables free rotation to fit any need. Such features are scarce among budget chairs, who rarely offer more than up and down movement.

Pynt explains the necessity of arm support for chairs, stating that "without arm support, an upright position calls for your back muscles to work extra hard, eventually leading to muscle pain." We experienced this first-hand with the Gesture, where extending arm support was useful for activities such as reading, gaming and art creation that required longer sustained periods.

Testers praised the chair for its minimalist, yet firm look, perfect for any professional space or adding a touch of sophistication to your home study. Plus with Steelcase’s reassuring 12-year warranty (PDF), you can rest assured that your chair is built to last, as it stood the test of time during our years of rigorous usage. Cylinders and pneumatic cylinders enabling height adjustment are fully covered, so you don’t need to worry.

The Gesture can be costly, normally retailing for more than $1,000, however if you don't require particular hues (the modified version offers more than 70 fabric choices plus six leather ones), you can regularly find it for less than $500 at office liquidators virtual or local stores. You lose the warranty if you purchase pre-owned, yet the reduced cost might be worth the exchange.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

If the idea of breaking a sweat while you work is a no-go, the Gesture is likely not the ideal seating option. Its foam and fabric construction isn't conducive to breathability, leading to hot and sticky conditions. In comparison, our other picks all feature ventilated mesh backs that enable airflow and resist lint buildup thanks to the non-cloth material.

The Gesture may look comfortable and be well-crafted, but don't expect an ergonomic revolution - most other task chairs in the same price range can give you the same level of back support and features. What it does offer is hassle-free reclining, ease of changing postures and fine-tunable adjustments to help find the perfect fit.

Weighing in at over 70 pounds, the chair can be an annoyance if you're looking to move it around your home office; however, its heft provides extra stability.

Runner-up: Herman Miller Aeron

Despite the lack of padding, the Herman Miller Aeron still provides a surprisingly comfortable seating experience that feels almost hammock-like due to the stretchy mesh material. As a result, it is the better choice for those in warm climates or who tend to feel the heat, over foam upholstered chairs. While the armrests and recline aren’t as adjustable or effortless as the Gesture, for regular computer and mouse usage, the seat and back are as comfortable as the Gesture. Plus, it comes with a 12-year warranty, just like the Gesture, and you can often find older or pre-owned Aerons at discounted prices.

You might be confounded by the Aeron's size range—it comes in three sizes (A, B, and C) and unlike most adjustable chairs, all three are pre-designed differently. To begin with, consider the size chart that correlates body height and weight, then decide which one fits you. Our own tester, who was a tight squeeze for Size B (recommended for people between 5-foot-2 and 6-foot-6), experienced an uncomfortable narrowness and an inability to control the recline. Thus, we advise that if you’re on the edge of two sizes, go for the bigger one.

The Aeron is comfortable for long shifts, so long as the right-size seat is selected. Thanks to its breathable mesh, many users don't overheat or suffer from a sweaty back during warm days. Surprisingly, some reviewers even preferred the cushiony feel and airy weave of the Aeron over the Gesture and similar models for extended periods of labor.

The Aeron is created with desk job activities in mind, making it difficult to sit with cross-legged comfort. On the other hand, the Gesture offers an option for those who prefer to keep their legs crossed yet remain entirely unaware of the against-rules way of sitting. Size is an important factor here too, as users of size A and B will find it trickier to recline and stay at their desired tilt angle, while size C users would find the chair's recline too easy and hard to keep locked, even with the tilt tension control knob. In conclusion, while some may enjoy the Aeron's rules-driven ergonomics, others may find it a bit too restrictive.

The Aeron’s lumbar-support system has an easily adjustable dial and tilt, however the setup isn’t as intuitive as the Gesture’s. Additionally, you can’t adjust the seat depth, meaning that you must get the right size for your body. The Aeron’s arms move up and down, as well as in and out, but with the Gesture you can move them diagonally, as well as forward and backward, to give you more flexibility. Adjusting the arm height can be tricky with the Aeron, since you need to unlock the arm with a switch on the chair’s rear, move it and then lock it back into place, rather than just pressing a tab and setting it up. Adjustability is important for optimum ergonomic positioning, as most people don’t sit in the same place all day and often switch tasks.

Looks-wise, the iconic Aeron design has been widely copied. On testing the gray ('mineral') version, our panelists noticed a less imposing presence than the black, which might fit more seamlessly into certain environments. You have the option to add a flashier touch with a polished or satin aluminum frame.

The Aeron carries a 12-year warranty that includes all repairs and parts – most of which are easily replaced by the user. Its simple structure allows for easy identification and access to the parts you need to replace, unlike the Gesture, which hides its components. Refined with metal, plastic and mesh, the Aeron is far more reliable and rugged than its counterpart. (Wirecutter editor Thorin Klosowski has had an Aeron for over 10 years, moving it house to house and state to state, and it still looks brand new.)

We suggest these options for the majority:

• Size: per fit guide (PDF)
• Back support: adjustable PostureFit SL
• Tilt: standard
• Arms: height-adjustable arms
• Armpad: standard
• Caster: hard-floor or carpet casters with quiet-roll technology

Herman Miller's current combo puts the cost at about $1,400. Optional adjustable arms for depth control and outward and inward movement will add approximately $130. A representative from Herman Miller noted that most people don't need or even utilize the tilt limiter or forward lean; we concur, as we found them superfluous during our assessment. However, if you frequently lean forward, you may want to spend $100 for the tilt limiter and seat-angle add-on.

The Aeron is easier to maintain than the Gesture and other non-mesh chairs. Its mesh fabric makes it easy to wipe clean, so if you're worried about pet hair shedding, the Aeron is the ideal choice. Plus, compared to other fabric cushions, it's much less likely to attract hair.

Buying used is a great budget-savvy option: older Aerons are still reliable and often available at office liquidators and Craigslist for under $400. When you forgo the new model, you don't get Herman Miller’s warranty but with a little DIY know-how, replacement parts from eBay can have your used Aeron running like new.

Also great: Herman Miller Sayl

The Herman Miller Sayl is a great option for anyone looking for a more affordable chair that still offers the basic adjustability and comfort one needs. It comes with a firm foam seat and breathable plastic mesh back, albeit without the advanced adjustments and ranges of a chair like the Steelcase Gesture. But for its lower price, it still carries the same warranty and proven durability of all Herman Miller chairs. Plus, the Sayl enjoys an eye-catching, unique design, as opposed to the plain visuals of the Gesture and Aeron. Ultimately, it's no surprise that this chair represents a great compromise between a budget model and higher-end option, starting at less than $600.

The Sayl proved comfortable enough to sit in for prolonged periods, with many of our smaller testers particularly in favor. The mesh back moves and flexes with you when you move to accommodate the natural S-shaped curve of your spine. It also provides plenty of support through the day. Optional adjustable lumbar-support control is available and can be moved up and down, though most of our testers found this piece to be unnecessary with the Sayl automatically encouraging upright posture. Crafted using high-quality fabric, the seat is firm yet cushioned to last, though if you prefer a softer and more cushiony feel, the Gesture would be a more appropriate choice.

The Sayl gives you the customizations you need, but nothing more. Its adjustable armrests (which are an optional add-on) can be shifted up or down, in or out, and even diagonally inwards and outwards for extra comfort when doing different tasks. You can tweak the tilt tension and how far the chair tilts back, however it does take a few turns of the knob to really feel the difference. Our size C tester found the chair to be too easy to recline all the way back. The fixed seat depthat 16 inches is suitable for most people, although if more adjustability is required, you can purchase an adjustable-depth seat for an extra $95.

The Sayl boasts the same 12-year warranty as the renowned Aeron, and is crafted by a brand known for its reliable, strong chairs. This chair is much softer in comparison to the Aeron, it's constructed with fewer metal components, yet, it remains sturdy. Wirelesscutter's LA office has used it as a go-to, ever since 2018, and the Sayls still function flawlessly, although their arm mechanisms can be a bit stiff occasionally. In our trials, we watched for any possible creasing or tearing of the plastics, however, it proved itself to be incredibly robust.

For some, it's the look of the chair that attracts them. Boasting an innovative, unframed rubber backing, it's sure to be a conversation-starter when visitors enter your home or workplace. Plus, you have the freedom to choose from several hues for the back suspension, base, and fabric. However, tastes vary! While testing, one panelist thought it gave off an 'alien/space-age' vibe, while another quite despised it - labeling it the 'Tron chair'. Ultimately, the design decision is up to your personal preference.

We highly suggest the Sayl, equipped with its own set of adjustable arms and a invariable sit depth, sans any other lower back assistance. For an even more economical choice, depending on the type of upholstery you select, its total amount should come about at $670, a substantially budget friendly alternative in comparison to a Gesture with every bell and whistle or an Aeron.

Budget pick: HON Ignition 2.0

If you're looking for a quality budget chair, the HON Ignition 2.0 tops the list. At just $300 (on sale, no less!), it's comfortable and offers the best lumbar support in chairs under $500. Plus, its materials are of a high quality, with less wobble in the armrests and smoother rolling casters. And you don't have to sacrifice on style - the Ignition 2.0 has a sleek design compared to other budget office chairs. The Ignition series includes the 2.0 we tested, the fully upholstered Ignition for about $100 more, and the Big and Tall Ignition accommodating up to 450 pounds but costing more than double the Ignition 2.0.

For the price, you'd be hard-pressed to find better comfort than the Ignition 2.0. The seat cushion is hearty and soft, a welcome reprieve from the slightly-too-firm HON Exposure or Fully Desk Chair. It's padding is nicely done, you won't even need to break it in, and you'll get plenty of support at the end of a long day. From its springy mesh seat back to the plush yet long-lasting armrests, the Ignition 2.0 is leagues ahead of its similarly priced competitors. Though its comfort can't quite match that of the Gesture or Aeron, it still manage to get all the basics right.

Office chairs make big claims about lumbar support, but often it doesn't even exist. With the Ignition 2.0 it's different - the optional adjustable lumbar support actually works! Our testers experienced a noticeable difference when they moved the back support up or down - it stayed in place delivering extra support exactly where they needed it. The big plastic piece makes you aware of the lumbar support through the mesh back - it does however minimise some of the seat back's springiness, something that most chairs of this design also suffer from. We believe the benefit of increased ergonomics is worth the trade-off.

The adjustability on this particular chair is outstanding. You can adjust the seat depth, height, and the arms up and down as well as inwards and outwards. Even though the arms don't move as low as some other expensive chairs, it's still a better deal than most budget options, which don't have adjustable arms. This was a dealbreaker for some of our testers when comparing 10 different chairs.

Due to the 17-inch seat height—an inch higher than the Gesture or Aeron size B chair—this model isn't ideal if you're shorter in stature. I'm 5'2" and couldn't keep my feet touching the floor while in the chair at its lowest height, and the same goes for 5'4" Wirecutter editor Tracy Vence. However, you can remedy this issue with a footrest, albeit at a cost.

The Ignition 2.0 is backed by a lifetime warranty that will cover defective materials or workmanship, but it doesn't cover minor parts that wear out over time, unlike the warranties from Steelcase & Herman Miller.

It’s hard to get all-day comfort in this price range, but the Ignition 2.0 is an exception.

Overall, the Ignition 2.0 looks and feels like a decently durable chair; the plastic frame and rollers will likely hold up, while a thick woven fabric covers the seat cushion. Though not as luxurious as the premium fabric on the Gesture, the looser weave of the Ignition 2.0 won't wear out as quickly. The mesh back of this chair also feels different from the tightly woven back of the Aeron, providing a more cushioned, camping-chair-like experience. Ultimately, the Ignition 2.0 is harder-wearing than most chairs at its price point, offering a lasting investment for your seating needs.

We encountered a peculiar quirk with the two Ignition 2.0 chairs we tested: When we got out of the chair after settling in, the seat made a "whooshing" sound, resembling a plastic-covered seat during a moist day. While it's mild enough to disregard after some time, some might find it annoying. Yet, Wirecutter editor Tracy Vence owns this chair and has reported no such sound, implying it may not be a feature of all Ignition 2.0 models.

Complaints about the Ignition 2.0 are mostly minor, considering it's a $300 chair with a 300-pound capacity. Generally, chairs of this price only last 1-2 years before they start to deteriorate, but the Ignition2.0 seems sturdy enough to last for at least five years.

If you don’t have (or don’t want to spend) hundreds of dollars for an office chair

We know that our selections are an important expense--something that not all people are prepared to make or can manage. However, options in the market that are cheaper than our picture-perfect selection (at the time of writing, about $300) are generally similar: none match up to the specifications of our immediate pick when it comes to lasting comfort, ergonomics, dependability, convenience, and warranty. The good news is, if you can't spend large amounts on a chair in the coming days, you can make a cheap office chair (or perhaps even a kitchen chair) suffice until you're ready to move up.

Tests confirm that if you're shopping for an adjustable office chair on a budget, the AmazonBasics Mid-Back Mesh Office Chair under $100 is your best option. It's worth noting, though, that this product isn't getting top marks: Our users didn't find it as comfortable as much as they'd like during extended sitting. You can, however, revive its shelf life and make it work better with some quick and affordable adjustments.

How to make a cheap chair suck less

Problem: Lack of height adjustabilitySolution: Footrest or seat cushion for improved ergonomics

Ideally, when you're sitting in your office chair, your back should be supported, your feet should be flat on the ground, and your arms & wrists should be in-line with the floor or slightly angled toward it to enable comfort.

Height-adjustable chairs not tailored to your needs can cause the ideal ergonomics to be off balance. Even though some chairs proudly advertise they're ergonomic and height adjustable, they still can be deceiving - more than a few have been tested and quickly sunk down, an issue right away.

In case you can't lower your chair to the right height so that your arms and wrists remain in a proper position, consider getting a footrest to lift your feet. If, on the other hand, the chair is too low and makes it awkward to use your keyboard, a seat cushion can help bring you to an ideal height. As an extra option, you can mount a keyboard tray under the desk to bring the keyboard down.

If you’re shopping for a new chair, read the manufacturer’s specifications for the floor-to-seat measurement and aim for chairs with the broadest height adjustability. Our top office chair picks usually vary from 16 to 21 inches in height – something to keep in mind if, like myself (at 5-foot-2), you find a chair that lowers to 18 inches too tall. This is especially relevant when some chairs adjust by only two inches (from 18 to 20, for example) while others may be adjustable twice as much.

Problem: insufficient lumbar supportSolution: a lumbar support cushion

Proper lumbar support is key when selecting an office chair. Make sure that the design curves correctly to provide comfort while promoting good posture. Without adequate padding, you may start to experience neck and back aches from long sitting sessions. Be cautious when it comes to chairs with deep curves too, as they can push you forward uneasily. Finally, bear in mind that chairs with a fixed height might not suit everyone.

If your budget-friendly chair lacks proper lumbar support, invest in a lumbar support pillow costing between $20 and $30 to improve your posture and make sitting more enjoyable.

Problem: poor padding Solution: lumbar support cushion and seat pillow

Have a rickety seat or inadequate padding on your cheap office chair? Not to worry; you can use a lumbar support pillow for extra backrest cushiness, or a seat cushion for added comfort. These additions can also be used to modify the height or depth of the chair to get the perfect fit.

Some issues are more difficult to hack

You can't alleviate pressure on your spine if a chair won't recline or can only recline slightly. Similarly, if casters are poor and cause the chair to be hard to roll, if the backrest is too short or non-existent, the armrests are underwhelming, flimsy, short, or too tall, the surface of the chair is difficult to clean, the edges are not rounded enough for optimal comfort, or the chair is rated for a weight less than 250 pounds, then it must be replaced. Ergonomic experts say it's best to recline at 110 degrees.

How to clean your office chair

When chair dust and crumbs become an unbearable nuisance, the first step is to search for a care and maintenance tag (usually located beneath the seat cushion). Our second favorite pick abides by Herman Miller's care and maintenance guide (PDF), and many of our suggestions are modeled after Steelcase's surface materials guide (PDF).

Maintaining an office chair is no challenge; it takes a mere 15 minutes to get the job done when done frequently. But if there are deeper stains or dirt involved, you might have to dedicate 30 minutes to extensive cleaning.

• Step 1: Vacuum and/or dust as much of the chair as you can access. For really tough-to-reach areas you can use a can of compressed air.
• Step 2: Go over fabric areas with (not too) soapy water and a slightly damp rag
• Step 3: Go back over the fabric you just cleaned with a fresh rag and clean water. Then wipe down the hard surfaces with a third, different rag.
• Step 4: Spot-treat stains with rubbing alcohol or another cleaning agent (confirm with your chair manufacturer which products are safe to use).
• Step 5: For deeper stains, you may want to use an upholstery cleaner.

For those looking for a detailed rundown of how to refresh an office chair, our tips for cleaning one are below.

Other good office chairs

Still, if you’re looking for a nice chair with a good warranty and decent features at a reasonable price, the ergoCentric tCentric Hybrid is worth a look. It's designed and constructed in Canada, and though it may not have the same recognition as Steelcase or Herman Miller chairs, it's still an option if you don't have quite the budget for the higher-end models. With plenty of configurable ergonomic adjustments and some unique features like 360-degree spinning armrests, an inflatable lumbar cushion, and an adjustable headrest, all backed with a 12-year warranty, it's a great all-around chair. And unlike the Gesture and Aeron which cost $1,000 or more, the tCentric Hybrid is often less pricey. You may want to opt for armrests that swivel and lift rather than adjust laterally, as those with locks tend to slip when standing, but either way it's an affordable yet well-built chair that should last for years.

If you're looking for a budget chair with enhanced features, the Fully Desk Chair could be your pick. It's usually priced similarly to the HON Ignition 2.0 but provides more flexibility with an aluminium base and an elevated design inspired by Herman Miller. Despite that, testers liked the Ignition 2.0 better due to comfort and ergonomic characteristics. The seat cushion on the Fully was a bit too firm to allow optimal comfort throughout the day, and the lumbar adjustment didn't serve its purpose. Further, the armrests can't be set in place, meaning they often move when sitting or standing.

If you're looking for a more stylish budget chair but can tolerate slightly wobbly armrests, the Branch Ergonomic Chair is a potential choice. It boasts similar premium design features as the Fully Desk Chair and the same thick, well-padded seat as the HON Ignition 2.0, along with a range of aluminium frame and seat colors to choose from. We appreciate its solid lumbar support, however the armrests (which can be adjusted for height and width) are not as sturdy as those found on other chairs in the sub-$500 range. This could be an issue if you use the armrests frequently.

The competition

Finding the right chair for you can be something of a challenge. Personal comfort is an individual issue, so it pays to explore a range of options. We tested a few chairs and most were satisfactory, but didn't fit every tester. That's why it's important to try out a few models before deciding on one.

We tested the X-Chair X3 ATR Management Chair with Elemax and had an okay experience. Despite some interesting features such as adjustable lumbar support, heating, cooling, and massage settings, it fell short in both lumbar support and massage. The lumbar support didn't adjust high enough and would slip out of position. The company provided us with a free kit to screw the support in place, but this isn't the best solution for a nearly thousand-dollar chair. Both testers reported weak pressure from the dual-mode massage settings even at the highest setting.

The All33 BackStrong C1 Chair presents a unique design we haven't tested before. Developed by a chiropractor, the seat and lower back of the chair are made to pivot independently from the upper back of the chair in order to support and activate "all 33" vertebrae in your lower spine. We sensed our core muscles being engaged with the chair's movement, making it like a mini-crunches-session while we sat. Unfortunately, the armrests lack adjustability, with no controls for height, width, or angle, though they can lift up completely. The chair's plasticky build, too, could be improved, and its minimum seat height of 18.5” renders it unsuitable for those who are under ~5-foot-8. Despite its approval from famous people like Bruce Willis and Justin Bieber, we believe that for its price point of $800, you should be able to get a more adjustable, higher-quality chair—and save the crunches for the ground.

As part of our mission to recommend high-quality office chairs within different budgets, we researched models under $300 that met our criteria for adjustability (including lumbar support, height, seat depth, armrest, and tilt/tension) and also had a warranty of at least five years. We dismissed four chairs in this backdrop: Staples Hyken Mesh Task Chair, Office Star ProGrid Mesh Manager’s Chair (lacking seat-depth adjustability), Staples Kroy Mesh/Fabric Task Chair (limited seat height range of 3 inches), and Tribesigns T18 Ergonomic Office Chair (minimum seat height of over 18 inches).

After trying the HON Convergence, we noticed the seat felt a bit too soft, made of a thinner and less hard-wearing material. Additionally, we found that it lacked the same level of mid- to upper-back support as the HON Ignition 2.0.

The HON Exposure had been our former budget option. Replacing it with the Ignition 2.0, it provides a much more comfortable seat, greater lumbar support, an upgraded weight limit, plus a less boxy look - all for the same price point.

Steelcase and Herman Miller both released two of the freshest chairs we tested, featuring a sleek design without many adjustments. Although some people liked them, we found that making manual adjustments to the Gesture usually led to a greater level of comfort and fit for most of our testers.

The Herman Miller Cosm (available in low-, mid-, and high-back versions) scored highly with our panelists in terms of comfort, back support, ease of reclining, and overall appearance; however, the Aeron still reigned supreme in each of these categories. The cost of this chair is comparable to the Aeron, but it does not boast any additional size options. The newer Leaf armrest design is definitely comfortable for relaxation, but it does not actively support the arms during tasks like typing or reading. In the end, we were most impressed with the adjustability of the other chairs.

The Steelcase Silq offers an adjust-to-your-body design similar to the Herman Miller Cosm, however it wasn't as comfortable for sitting for extended periods as other comparable chairs. The comparable-priced Herman Miller Sayl, offering more adjustments, was preferred by testers. A size C tester found the Silq pushed them forward in an uncomfortable way and the armrests dug in. This chair might work better as a task chair in a conference room or if you tend to stand up often during the day.

Humanscale’s Freedom is a compact chair fully loaded with a leather finish and polished aluminum frame, retailing for over $2,500, yet our panelists rated it just average in comfort, back support, and ease of adjusting. It's quite a firm seat, though one benefit is the arms that lower to seat height, making it easy to fit under any desk. If you like its sculpted foam design, it's worth checking out if you find it at a nearby retailer and feel comfortable shopping in person.

The Autonomous ErgoChair 2, although at an affordable price of around $360, was decidedly unpopular amongst our panelists. After 90 minutes in the chair, one tester famously declared it felt like "an eternity", pushing for the need for a standing desk. The mesh-back and foam seat combination was not enjoyed, with the back pushing the user too far forward and the headrest found to be obtrusive. Moreover, controls were found to be tricky to master.

At $260, IKEA's Hattefjäll is an affordable chair with a touch of style, featuring a gray, pink, or white cloth finish and a curved design. Unfortunately, the foam seat is a bit too rigid and the seat has been attached to the base with Velcro, which could easily trap dirt and lint unlike a typical sofa cushion. While it offers firm back support, the overall size of the chair may be too small for those of larger stature.

For just under $60 at the time of this review, the AmazonBasics Mid-Back Mesh Office Chair was the most affordable model we tested. Although it comes without any fancy features and has limited incline and arm motions, the chair still offers a one-year warranty. Unfortunately, our petite-sized testers could not find full back support due to the shallow seat pan, not to mention its rock-solid seat. In our opinion, it’s better to save up for a chair that offers more comfort for the long run rather than purchasing this model for only short-term use.

We considered but passed on the following office chairs while crafting the preceding versions of this guidance:

Initially our top office chair pick, the Steelcase Leap was relegated to runner-up status. It's still an effective seat with abundant adjustments and a comfortable backrest, but our testers didn't feel it merits a higher rank than the Gesture or Aeron. So if you spot a decent-priced used model, like the design, or will forgo arm adjustability, the Leap may work for you. Although in long-term testing we discovered the Gesture and Aeron have superior seat comfort.

Our testers had mixed opinions regarding the Haworth Fern; some fell in love immediately while others just couldn't get comfy, no matter how hard they tried. Its tall back ties in with both the Gesture and the IKEA Markus, however, it finds itself in an unusual spot between the two. If you're not a fan of the Sayl's design but feel that the Gesture is a bit bland, then the Haworth Fern offers the perfect mid-range option!

The Haworth Zody is a great option if you're after an office chair with both a foam seat cushion and mesh back. There are a few colour options available and based on its reviews, it's worth considering if you're after these features. We didn't have time to test it this time, but it's a product worth looking into.

Herman Miller’s Embody is an oddly-designed chair, yet when it comes to comfort, it's among the most adjustable, high-tech chairs accessible. Despite its coziness, the Embody's starting price is even more expensive than the Gesture, its arm adjustability is not as good as the Gesture and Herman Miller doesn't provide the fabrics that Steelcase offers.

The Herman Miller Mirra 2 is a worthy contender in the world of office chairs, coming at a comparable price tag to the legendary Aeron. However, our verdict is that the Aeron tops it when it comes to comfort and adjusting seat and back tension.

At least one tester ranks the Steelcase Amia among the top three when it comes to office chairs. However, its ordinary design and basic features don’t allow it to stand out. It has a very moderate price tag when compared to the Sayl and the Gesture, making it ideal for customers who don’t want to splurge on their chair, yet still desire a comfortable and ordinary looking piece.

The Steelcase Think is comparable to the Amia in that while our evaluators had no issues with it, only one described it as among their favorites. It’s passable and there’s lots of surface ventilation, making it a plus during the warmer months. Its price tag is quite comparable to the Gesture, though, so buyers would typically opt for the latter over the former.

Just like the Haworth Fern, the Knoll ReGeneration evoked mixed reviews. Some testers found the back of the chair pushing unevenly into their lower spine, while others weren't so keen on the recline, which made them feel as though their fuselage was thrust skyward when the mechanism activated. But if you match the right size requirements, this chair might be a good viable option.

Not a single tester enjoyed the Steelcase Series 1; they deemed it too low, the armrests too high, and long hours of sitting were intolerably uncomfortable.

Several Wirecutter staffers are still quite fond of the economical IKEA Markus office chair, though it has been met with extensive disapproval in earlier tests. Shorter individuals felt like kids in a regal seat due to its tall back, while taller individuals found it very uncomfortable because of its non-adjustable arms being too low. Despite this, positive reviews of the Markus abound, so if you're searching for a low-cost chair, it's worth giving it a try at an IKEA store if you can. Nevertheless, success depends on your height.

Frequently asked questions

How long do desk chairs last?

The longevity of any given chair depends on its usage, though chairs of high-quality such as our top and runner-up picks are crafted using strong, resilient parts and fabrics – which in our long-term testing have held up for over six years. Furthermore, most of these high-end chairs come with warranties of up to 12 years that can protect against more than just the everyday wear and tear. On the other hand, chairs that are around the $100 mark and can be found on sites like Wayfair and big-box stores tend to be made of materials of lesser quality and may last only one or two years before deterioration.

Are expensive office chairs worth it?

If you’re spending most of your time at a desk, investing in a high-quality chair is a must. Quality seats have more adjustable ergonomic features for customizing your posture, providing your body with better support and helping to prevent the pain associated with extended sitting such as back pain, neck discomfort, and hip tightness. And, even though these chairs can be pricier, there are always pre-owned options that can offer great value while still maintaining their quality.

Should I buy an office chair, task chair, or gaming chair?

Office chairs and task chairs are often considered one and the same, yet it's typically the least expensive, more compact, less ergonomically-sound office chairs that are categorized as task chairs. In contrast, gaming chairs bear some resemblance to office chairs, yet typically offer fewer ergonomic modifications. While a quality gaming chair will provide lumbar support, its backrest is fashioned to hold you in place when gaming rather than reinforcing an ideal sitting posture. (Like executive-style office chairs, most gaming chairs' upper back and headrest design will propel you forwards when seated upright; in this case, it's since they're designed for you to recline while gaming.) Apart from ergonomic concerns, gaming chairs also make stylistic choices which may be ideal for a Twitch stream, yet maybe not suitable for a Zoom meeting with the boss.

Where can I buy a cheap office chair?

Doing a bit of research on Google for office chairs will bring up lots of products, with many offerings costing less than $100 from retailers like Wayfair, Amazon, Target, Staples and more. However, when asking if these lower-priced chairs represent a good investment, the answer is often no. Creaking, sagging cushions, and cracked plastic components are just some of the downsides of going for those bargain basement finds. As such, it's a good idea to save up and get one of the better-made chairs that'll last a few years instead of spending $50-100 ever year or so.

If dropping $300 to $1,000 for an office chair doesn't interest you, consider an option from our top picks that's pre-owned but still reliable.

Does IKEA have good office chairs?

Through the years, we’ve given IKEA chairs a shot. Unfortunately, they don’t have much room for customization, which might not be ideal for some individuals. Taller testers weren't fans of the low-cost IKEA Markus' unadjustable armrests, while shorter people complained that the lowest chair position was too high. That being said, should you be neither too short nor too tall, then this chair could be an acceptable choice. As for the IKEA Hattefjäll, its colorful fabrics and curved design may appear inviting, yet our testers found the seating to be quite uncomfortable over time. Our advice is to choose our budget option, as it's only $40 pricier.