When choosing an office chair, it’s crucial to consider features like adjustable lumbar support and a high degree of adjustability, including seat height, armrest, and recline adjustments. These features help you maintain a comfortable and ergonomic posture during long work hours, preventing discomfort and potential back issues. Additionally, the build quality and material choice, such as breathable mesh or high-density foam, can significantly impact your sitting experience, providing the necessary support and durability.
For our buying guide, we analyzed 31 office chairs, narrowing down to 6 that performed exceptionally well in comfort, adjustability, and durability tests. Our comprehensive review process included assessing 69,269 reviews and filtering out 69% of experts who were deemed untrustworthy due to inconsistent or fake reviews. This ensures that our recommendations are based on verified, reliable data, focusing on chairs that genuinely offer the best features and value for a comfortable seating experience.
How Did We Rank the Best Office Chairs?
Office chairs do not have a lot of testing data available, which makes test-focused approaches challenging. Fortunately, office chairs are also in a rather unique position to not need a lot of test data because so much of what impacts them is based on specifications and features. The testing criteria we looked at paint only part of the picture for this list of the office chairs we most recommend – features like materials, measurements, and more all factored in as well.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Weight Limit | > 300 lbs | No (Nice to have) | How much weight the chair can support. |
| Seat Width | Varies | No (Nice to have) | The width of the seat. |
| Backrest Height | Varies | No (Nice to have) | The height of the chair’s backrest. |
Latest Updates
- 08/06/2024: Republished the list to include the best office chairs based on our True Score system.
Top Office Chairs For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Herman Miller Mirra 2
Best For Scoliosis
The Herman Miller Mirra 2 offers superb ergonomics, breathability, and durability for work and study. It is ideal for a wide range of body types and has key features like adjustable lumbar support and a 350-lb weight limit.
True Score
92954Experts
85185Customers
Cosmic Wonder
SAVE $427$1,026.00$599.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional adjustability and ergonomics
- Adjustable lumbar support
- High-end materials
Reasons to Avoid
- Does not include a headrest
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Yes 
Armrest Height Max n/a 
Armrest Height Min n/a 
Backrest Height 22.91″ 
Backrest Width 21″ 
Frame Construction Metal and Plastic 
Has Footrest No 
Head Pillow No 
Head Rest No 
Lumbar Support Adjustable 
Piston Type Pneumatic Cylinder 
Recline Yes 
Seat Depth 16.5 – 18.5″ 
Seat Height Adjustment 16.5 – 20.5″ 
Seat Padding Material Foam 
Seat Width 21.5″ 
Upholstery Foam 
Weight Limit 350 lbs 
Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
$599.00$1,026Save $427Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
The Herman Miller Mirra 2 is an exceptional office chair, with top-tier comfort, adjustability, and breathability, making it perfect for both professional and educational settings, especially for those seeking relief from lower back pain. While it comes at a premium price, its unmatched ergonomic support, superior build quality, and customizable features make it a worthy investment. Compared to the Embody, the Mirra 2 offers a more affordable option while supporting a higher weight capacity of up to 350 lbs, a 21-inch backrest width, and a 21.5-inch seat width, making it ideal for heavier users with wider builds.
The chair’s adjustable lumbar support provides personalized comfort, essential for maintaining proper spinal alignment and reducing lower back pain. Its large backrest (21 inches wide and 22.4 inches high) and adjustable seat depth (16.5 to 18.5 inches) and height (16.5 to 20.5 inches) cater to users of various sizes, promoting good posture and spine health.
For those who spend long hours at a desk or in a classroom, the Mirra 2’s airweave seat material offers breathability, preventing discomfort from heat buildup. The chair’s construction, featuring a durable metal and plastic frame with casters, ensures both longevity and ease of movement. Its blend of best-in-class ergonomic features makes it an ideal investment if you’re dedicated to comfort and well-being in your workspace.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
HAG Capisco
The HAG Capisco is a premium, customizable armless office chair, ideal for active sitting and tasks requiring flexibility, with adjustable features and a unique ergonomic design.
True Score
90922Experts
87111Customers
Cosmic Wonder
$1,164.98Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good ergonomics and adjustability
- Good build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- No lumbar support
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests No Armrest Height Max n/a Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height 18.1″ Backrest Width 23″ Frame Construction Steel and Plastic Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest Adjustable Head Support Lumbar Support No Piston Type Class 3 Gas Lift Recline Yes Seat Depth 13.39 – 16.54″ Seat Height Adjustment 18.5 – 22″ Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 18.5″ Upholstery Polyester Weight Limit 250 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
- $1,164.98
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
The HAG Capisco is an amazing choice if you’re looking for a high-quality armless office chair that excels in comfort and customization. It is uniquely designed for drafting and other tasks that eschew armrests.
This chair encourages flexibility and movement, supporting active sitting habits. With several adjustable features, including seat depth (13.39 – 16.54 inches) and height adjustment (18.5 – 22 inches), it is particularly suitable for shorter builds. The seat depth is also not as deep as the Herman Miller Mirra 2.
A key feature is its generous 23-inch backrest width, catering well to broader backs. The chair’s lack of traditional armrests promotes better freedom of movement, though its 250 lbs weight limit may not accommodate all users. Constructed with a durable steel and plastic frame, the Capisco is built to last. The adjustable headrest and foam padding provide added comfort, making it ideal for long work hours.
While it doesn’t include lumbar support and comes with a premium price tag, the HAG Capisco’s ergonomic design encourages a healthier sitting position. It’s a great choice for an expanded range of motion and good versatility.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair
The AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair is a budget-friendly, tall, and simple option, ideal for temporary workspaces and taller individuals seeking basic comfort and functionality.
True Score
83831Experts
8630kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $10$86.70$76.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Average ergonomics and adjustability
- Good build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- No Lumbar support
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests n/a Armrest Height Max n/a Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height 20.5″ Backrest Width 18″ Frame Construction Metal and Plastic Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest No Lumbar Support No Piston Type Pneumatic Cylinder Recline No Seat Depth 24″ Seat Height Adjustment 20.5″ Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 19″ Upholstery Mesh Weight Limit 275 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
- $76.99$87Save $10
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
The AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair is an ideal choice for taller individuals looking for a more budget-friendly chair with all-around performance. Designed with simplicity in mind, this chair offers essential features for temporary workspaces, home offices, or classrooms. Its fixed seat height of 20.5 inches and generous seat depth of 24 inches, make it the tallest option in this category – and also the most affordable. While it lacks advanced ergonomic features like adjustability or lumbar support, it provides reliable comfort for shorter sitting periods.
This chair is best suited for taller users who do not require extensive ergonomic adjustments or support for heavier weights, as it has a weight capacity of 275 lbs and a 19-inch seat width. The metal and plastic construction provides good durability, and the casters offer ease of movement, making it a practical choice for dynamic environments. The foam-padded seat adds comfort for classrooms, conference rooms, or other spaces where short-term seating is needed.
The AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair is a straightforward, cost-effective option for those who prioritize simplicity and basic functionality. It also delivers solid support and comfort, particularly for taller individuals.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair
The Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair offers affordability and breathability for tall students and professionals. Ideal for long hours at a desk, it provides good support with a 20-inch seat depth and 120° recline but has a 250 lbs weight limit.
True Score
82821Experts
84922Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $40$189.99$149.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Remarkable ergonomics
- Comfortable all-day seating
- Build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Non-adjustable Lumbar
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Yes Armrest Height Max n/a Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height 19.3″ Backrest Width n/a Frame Construction Steel and Plastic Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest Adjustable Head Support Lumbar Support Yes Piston Type Pneumatic Lift Recline 120° Seat Depth 20″ Seat Height Adjustment 19″ Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 21.5″ Upholstery Mesh Weight Limit 250 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
- $149.99$190Save $40
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
The Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair is a superb mid-range choice for tall users who prioritize comfort and ergonomic support during long working hours. With its fixed 19-inch seat height and 20-inch seat depth, it provides ample thigh support, while the 21.5-inch seat width and 21-inch backrest height cater to wider hips and taller backs, enhancing spinal alignment and promoting better posture. The chair’s durable steel and plastic construction supports users up to 250 lbs, making it ideal for taller individuals, though it may not be the best fit for heavier users.
One of the key features of the Kerdom chair is its breathable mesh back and foam-padded seat, which prevent overheating and ensure comfort even during extended periods of use. The chair also includes a 120° recline feature and lumbar support, adding to its ergonomic appeal by allowing users to adjust their seating position for optimal comfort and focus. While the chair lacks some adjustability compared to more expensive models like the Herman Miller Embody, its affordability and ergonomic design make it a great value.
In addition to its use in professional settings, the Kerdom chair’s versatility makes it suitable for home offices, study areas, and even light gaming sessions. Its ability to provide comfort and support across various activities and environments highlights its functionality as a multi-purpose office chair. If you’re after a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on ergonomic benefits, the Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair is a solid investment.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Herman Miller Embody
The Herman Miller Embody is an ultra-premium, highly adjustable chair ideal for scoliosis sufferers, professionals, and streamers, offering exceptional comfort and support for long sitting periods.
True Score
79784Experts
85459Customers
Mixed Reviews
$1,199.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional ergonomics and adjustability
- Great build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Lumbar support may not be for everyone
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Yes Armrest Height Max n/a Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height 24″ Backrest Width 13″ Frame Construction Metal and Plastic Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest No Lumbar Support Adjustable Piston Type Pneumatic Cylinder Recline 120° Seat Depth 15 – 18″ Seat Height Adjustment 15.5 – 20.5″ Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 21.5″ Upholstery Fabric, Leather Weight Limit 300 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 21 All Retailers
- $1,199.00
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
The Herman Miller Embody chair stands out as a top-tier ergonomic option for professionals and gamers who spend long hours seated, particularly those of shorter or average height and slimmer build. Its design caters specifically to those who need superior spinal support and comfort, with adjustable features like a 15.5 to 20.5-inch seat height, 15 to 18-inch seat depth, and a narrow 13-inch wide backrest. These specifications make it ideal for users with narrower backs and a need for precise lumbar support, crucial for managing conditions like scoliosis.
Constructed with durable metal and plastic, and upholstered with high-quality foam, the Embody chair ensures longevity and comfort in both corporate and home office settings. Its 21.5-inch wide seat provides ample space for those with wider hips, while the 300 lbs weight capacity supports a wide range of body types without compromising on comfort or durability. The chair’s 120° recline feature further enhances its adaptability, making it suitable for various working and gaming postures.
Despite its premium price, the Embody’s comprehensive adjustability and robust build quality make it a worthwhile investment. It excels in promoting spinal alignment and reducing back strain, offering significant health benefits for users who require sustained comfort and support. This chair is a top choice for serious professionals and gamers who prioritize ergonomic design and quality, justifying its place on any best-of guide.
Read Less
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Hon Ignition 2.0
The Hon Ignition 2.0 is a highly adjustable, mid-range ergonomic chair ideal for tall individuals and those with lower back pain, offering substantial support and comfort without exceeding $500.
True Score
72695Experts
832kCustomers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $277$637.00$359.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good ergonomics/adjustability
- Comfortable lumbar support
- Robust construction
Reasons to Avoid
- No neck support
- Tall for individuals under 5’2″
- Cushion padding flattens out
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Yes Armrest Height Max 20″ Armrest Height Min 11.2″ Backrest Height 24.25″ Backrest Width 19″ Frame Construction Steel Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest Adjustable Head Support Lumbar Support Yes Piston Type n/a Recline Yes Seat Depth 16.75-19″ Seat Height Adjustment 17 – 22″ Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 20″ Upholstery Fabric, Mesh Weight Limit 300 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
- $359.99$637Save $277
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes 
$441.96$589Save $147Availability
Not availableFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
The Hon Ignition 2.0 is an excellent mid-range choice for adjustability, especially if you’re a tall individual or suffer from lower back pain. It also offers quality and performance like the Kerdom, but seats larger people without breaking the 500 dollar mark.
This ergonomic chair offers substantial support at a mid-range price, featuring a best-in-class maximum seat height of 22 inches and a seat depth adjustable from 16.75 to 19 inches, making it ideal for corporate offices, home offices, and educational settings. The 300 lbs weight capacity, along with adjustable lumbar and head support, ensures comfort for heavier users and promotes better posture during prolonged periods of sitting.
Constructed with a durable steel frame and foam padding, the Ignition 2.0 is built to last in demanding environments. Its adjustable armrests, seat depth, and height cater to a wide range of body sizes, providing a customized seating experience. Although it may not have the high-end materials of more expensive models, the chair’s robust build and ergonomic features offer exceptional value, making it a worthy investment. The Hon Ignition 2.0 is versatile enough for traditional office use, home offices, and even light gaming, making it a multi-functional option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
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Our Approach to Analyzing Office Chairs
We’ve redefined office chair buying guides, setting us apart from any other site on the planet. Our unique approach uses a comprehensive dataset from trusted sites, focusing on key testing metrics like brightness recline angle, seat height, width, and depth.
We aggregate and analyze this data, ensuring our recommendations meet the specific needs. Specifically, when it comes to office chairs, this involves selecting models that offer good adjustability, good recline angles, and sturdy construction.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Office Chairs?
By focusing on these criteria, anyone can quickly and easily compare these office chairs and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase an office chair that will meet your needs.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Weight Limit | > 300 lbs | No (Nice to have) | How much weight the chair can support. |
| Seat Width | Varies | No (Nice to have) | The width of the seat. |
| Backrest Height | Varies | No (Nice to have) | The height of the chair’s backrest. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 80+ office chairs reviewers and while 25 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating), we only use data from the testers that are “very trusted” which means a Trust Rating above 70%. The three we have listed below are our most trusted for office chairs.
- Melanie Pinola – Wirecutter, MuckRack
- Jenny McGraths – Business Insider, MuckRack, Twitter
- Ciprian Adrian Rusen – Digital Citizen, LinkedIn
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every office chair review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Office Chair Test Data & Specifications
1. Weight Limit Spec Data
Weight Limit
> 300 lbs
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How much weight the chair can support.
Units of Measurement: lbs (pounds)
Tools to Measure: Manufacturer-provided specification
Why It’s Important:
Weight limits tell you the rough weight a person can be and still safely and comfortably use a chair.
Manufacturers commonly provide a weight limit specification that lets you know the weight the chair will support before parts start breaking or it becomes unsafe to sit in the chair.
Higher weight limits usually reflect a more expensive chair, as more material (or stronger material) is used to improve the weight limit of the chair. For example, different pistons, or chair legs that are made of metal instead of plastic.
Weight Limit (in pounds; higher is better)
2. Seat Width Spec Data
Seat width is a manufacturer-provided measurement that indicates how wide the actual seat of the chair is.
Width is largely preferential, with the best seat width being the one that best suits your body. Buying a chair with an extremely wide seat might be uncomfortable or odd if you have a narrow frame, while extremely narrow seats are uncomfortable or impossible to sit in if you’re wide.
Seat Width
Varies
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The width of the seat.
Units of Measurement: ” (Inches)
Tools to Measure: Manufacturer-provided specification.
Why It’s Important:
Seats need to be wide enough to be comfortable to sit in.
Seat Width (in inches)
3. Backrest Height Spec Data
Backrest height is a manufacturer-supplied specification, and, as the name implies, indicates how tall the backrest on a chair is.
Much like seat width, the backrest height on a chair should match your body, meaning there’s no “ideal” size. If you have a long torso, a taller back is better, but if you’re on the short side, a shorter back is better.
Backrest Height
Varies
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The height of the chair’s backrest.
Units of Measurement: ” (Inches)
Tools to Measure: Measuring Tape
Why It’s Important:
Seat backs need to be high enough to support most or all of your back.
Max Seat Height (in inches; higher is better)
Office Chairs: Mistakes To Avoid
- Overlooking Ergonomic Features and Adjustability: Ergonomics is essential for preventing back pain and promoting good posture. Many people choose chairs based on appearance or price, overlooking ergonomic features. Key features include adjustable lumbar support, armrests, seat height, and tilt mechanisms, allowing customization for different body types and sitting habits. A common mistake is not ensuring the chair offers enough adjustability, which can lead to poor posture and discomfort. Additionally, without proper ergonomic support, you might find yourself sliding out of your office chair, which can be both uncomfortable and disruptive to your workflow. It’s important to test or research the ease and effectiveness of these adjustments.
- Ignoring Seat Comfort and Material: The seat cushion’s comfort and the chair’s material can significantly impact your sitting experience. Some buyers focus solely on the chair’s aesthetics and overlook the quality of the seat padding. A chair with insufficient padding or made from non-breathable materials can lead to discomfort, pressure points, or overheating. Consider chairs with high-quality, durable upholstery and well-padded seats to ensure long-lasting comfort. When choosing a chair, it’s also crucial to weigh the pros and cons of leather vs. mesh chairs and mesh vs. fabric office chairs, as each material offers different benefits in terms of breathability, durability, and comfort.
- Overlooking the Chair’s Base and Mobility: The chair’s base and mobility are important for ease of movement and stability. Some chairs have poor-quality casters that can damage flooring or do not roll smoothly. Additionally, a chair with a five-point base offers more stability than a four-point base. If you need to move around frequently or use multiple surfaces (like carpet and hardwood), ensure the chair has suitable wheels and a stable base. It’s also essential to know how to stop a squeaky chair or address common issues like fixing the chair’s hydraulics to maintain a comfortable and functional seating experience. In addition, knowing how to remove hair from office chair wheels and how to replace the wheels can help maintain the chair’s mobility and extend its lifespan.
- Ignoring the Chair’s Weight Capacity and Size: Many people overlook the importance of choosing a chair that suits their body size and weight. Using a chair not designed for your body type can lead to discomfort and a shorter lifespan for the chair. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended weight capacity and size guidelines. It’s also important to consider the chair’s dimensions in relation to your workspace to ensure it fits comfortably without crowding your desk or other furniture.
The Best Office Chair Specs Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Backrest Height
|
Seat Width
|
Seat Depth
|
Lumbar Support
|
Adjustable Armrests
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92 |
|
|
|
|
|  $599.00 $1,026 $427 |
90 |
|
|
|
|
| $1,164.98 | |
83 |
|
|
|
|
| $76.99 $87 $10 | |
Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair
| 82 |
|
|
|
|
| $149.99 $190 $40 |
| 79 |
|
|
|
|
| $1,199.00 |
72 |
|
|
|
|
| $359.99 $637 $277 |
