The best office chairs under $300 should be comfortable for a long working day. But when buying your next one, you should know there is a problem of low quality or fake expert reviews. 91% of reviewers don’t actually test the office chairs and as a result you might end up buying the wrong one. That’s why we verify each of our 31+ office chairs as certified tested and shortlist the best 5 based on our True Score, a product rating system based on actual test data, expert and customer ratings.
Here are the top 5 best office chairs under $300 from $79-$209 for any budget and use. For those seeking the ultimate in ergonomic design and comfort regardless of price, explore our selection of the best office chairs.
How Did We Rank the Best Office Chairs Under $300?
While we leveraged data from 200+ trusted sites, there was not enough testing data available to produce a guide that builds off important test criteria like the actual angle of recline or actual seat height maximum, so our guide instead is based on an important specification and leans on our True Score system to highlight the best possible products. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
🛠️ Minimum Specifications
- Must be less than $300
Latest Updates
- 04/22/2024: Published the list of best office chairs under $300 based on our True Score system.
Top Office Chairs Under $300 For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
To qualify for our selection, an office chair must be under $300. The chairs are then sorted based on our True Score system.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair
Best For Under $300
Ideal for budget-conscious users, the AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair combines simplicity, functionality, and comfort, making it a versatile choice for both office work and casual use.
True Score
84831Experts
8630kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
$95.37Snapshot
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
$95.37Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a budget-friendly, no-frills office chair under $300, the AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair is an attractive option for those seeking simplicity and functionality within a modest budget. It distinguishes itself with a commendable weight limit of 275 pounds, only surpassed by the Modway Articulate Ergonomic on our list. The chair’s 18-inch backrest width and 19-inch seat width ensure it comfortably accommodates a wide range of users.
The AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair has an uncomplicated ergonomic design, with no lumbar support or reclining functions to promote an upright posture, which is particularly conducive to focused work. While not the most adjustable chair, it has a class-leading seat depth of 24 inches and an adjustable height range from 15 inches to 20.5 inches, catering to various user needs while maintaining simplicity. The lack of armrests might be viewed as a drawback by some, yet it offers an unobstructed, streamlined experience, especially advantageous in tight office setups or for tasks that demand unrestricted movement. This minimalist approach suits office environments and adapts well to gaming or casual use, where fundamental support and ease of movement are essential.
If a budget-friendly, basic, and functional design is all you care about in your office chair, the AmazonBasics Low-Back Chair is a suitable candidate for users in search of an uncomplicated seating solution. Its performance in critical areas like weight capacity and spatial efficiency underscores its potential beyond the office, whether in gaming setups or as a versatile household chair, offering a blend of comfort and convenience for various everyday scenarios.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Nypot Premium Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Best For Armless
The Nypot Kneeling Chair’s unique design enhances posture and reduces back pain in space-limited settings, though it may not suit all preferences.
True Score
83830Experts
86308Customers
Absolutely Fresh
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good ergonomics
- May reduce postural fatigue
- Good build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Sub-par performance for larger users
- Stiff padding
- Limited Versatility
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests n/a Armrest Height Max n/a Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height n/a Backrest Width n/a Frame Construction Wood Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest No Lumbar Support No Piston Type n/a Recline No Seat Depth 8" Seat Height Adjustment n/a Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width n/a Upholstery Foam Weight Limit 250 lbs Wheel Type n/a All Specs
All Retailers
Availability
Free Shipping
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a unique approach to your next office chair, the Nypot Premium Ergonomic Kneeling Chair focuses on promoting better posture and reducing back pain through its distinctive kneeling design. With a weight capacity of 250 lbs and an 8-inch seat depth, it won’t accommodate every user’s preferences. However, this chair could be a beneficial choice if you are dedicated to improving your posture and seeking a healthier way to sit during extended work sessions.
For those open to its unconventional design, the chair’s streamlined, armless structure is perfect for compact areas, such as busy office environments where larger, conventional chairs might not fit well. Its lack of adjustability, especially when contrasted with more versatile chairs like the Herman Miller Aeron, emphasizes its dedication to promoting an active sitting experience.
Given its lack of traditional back support and reclining features, this chair might not be the first choice for use cases requiring extensive relaxation or gaming. Yet, it offers significant benefits for users focused on improving their seating posture and reducing the risk of back pain associated with prolonged desk work. Its compact size and specific design could make it a suitable addition to a home office or a space-constrained work environment, encouraging a more engaged and healthier seating posture.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair
For under $300, the BestOffice Chair combines affordability with crucial ergonomic features for comfort and posture, making it a versatile choice for work and beyond.
True Score
83830Experts
86656Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$53.33Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Includes Height and Tilt Adjustment Controls
- Includes Lumbar Support
- Comfortable Mid-Back Design
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks Adjustability Options
- Tight Fit for Larger People
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Fixed Armrest Height Max – Armrest Height Min n/a Backrest Height 19.7" Backrest Width 17" Frame Construction Metal Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest No Lumbar Support Yes Piston Type Pneumatic Cylinder Recline Yes Seat Depth 18" Seat Height Adjustment 3.5" Seat Padding Material Mesh Seat Width – Upholstery Mesh Weight Limit 250 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
All Retailers
- $53.33
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you are looking for the most bang for your buck for an office chair under $300, the BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair is excellent. Especially for those who prioritize ergonomic features without breaking the bank. With a robust all-mesh design that incorporates essential ergonomic support, including lumbar support and an adjustable seat height range of 3.5 inches, this chair covers the fundamental needs for comfort and posture support during long working hours.
These features are not just about comfort; they promote better posture and reduce the risk of back pain, which is crucial for anyone spending significant time seated at a desk. Notably, the chair’s weight limit of 250 lbs, while tied for the lowest on our list, accommodates a broad range of users, ensuring durability and stability. With an 18-inch seat depth, it ranks at the lower end compared to others, except for the Nypot Premium Ergonomic Kneeling Chair, which deviates from conventional office chair designs.
Although not explicitly designed for gaming or relaxation, the BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair’s ergonomic features and mesh backing contribute to a comfortable experience for extended periods, which could extend its utility beyond the office. The inclusion of lumbar support and the ability to adjust the seat height can also enhance comfort during gaming sessions or while unwinding after work, making it a versatile option for various activities.
While the BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair is a budget offering, its ergonomic design, supportive features, and affordability make it a noteworthy contender for those seeking a reliable office chair under $300. Its potential for crossover use in gaming and relaxation further underscores its value, offering a multifaceted solution for comfort and support across different contexts.
Did you know 91% of Office Chair reviewers are untrustworthy?
Our research found only 9 of 97 office chair reviewers as of April 2024 can be trusted. This is why Gadget Review is committed calculating the most accurate product scores on the web.
To do this, we give every office chair review site a Trust Score, which measures how trustworthy the site and their testing claims are. We then leverage AI & a machine learning model to combine and calculate the Trust Score with data from experts and consumers to deliver the True Score, the web’s most accurate product quality rating.
67,691Office Chair Reviews Analyzed
31
Total Products Analyzed
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair
Best For Big And Tall
Ideal for extended work sessions, the Kerdom Mesh Chair offers breathable and ergonomic support with versatile features for diverse settings despite being the priciest on our list.
True Score
82821Experts
84922Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$189.99Snapshot
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
- $189.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you prioritize breathability and comfort during long working hours, the Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair is a solid option for an office chair under $300. The chair features a breathable mesh backrest, crucial for keeping you comfortable and cool by preventing the common heat accumulation associated with non-mesh chairs. The mesh also promotes airflow and significantly reduces the unease that comes with sitting for extended periods.
While this is the most expensive chair on our list, it features essential ergonomic features such as lumbar support and adjustable seat height, ensuring comfort during long hours of work. The inclusion of a 120-degree recline allows for a personalized seating experience, accommodating various postures and activities, from focusing on tasks to relaxing. With a seat depth of 20 inches and a weight capacity of 250 lbs. However, if you need a chair with a higher weight capacity, the Modway Articulate Ergonomic Chair supports up to 330 lbs and is available at a more economical price point.
Given its design and features, the Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair is not limited to office use. Its comfort and support characteristics make it a versatile choice for various settings, including home offices, study areas, and even light gaming sessions. The chair’s adaptability to different environments and its ergonomic benefits underscore its utility beyond conventional office work, making it a suitable option for users looking for a multifunctional chair that offers both comfort and support.
DON’T SEE WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR?
For those who alternate between sitting and standing, the best standing desk chair or best kneeling chair can improve posture and comfort. For active sitting that promotes alignment, consider the top ergonomic stool. Understanding the task chair vs office chair distinction is key for those needing enhanced mobility in dynamic work settings.
Dealing with issues like how to get cat pee out of office chair can be challenging. If you have a specific budget, there arereliable chairs for under $500. The best office chair for a short person offers proper ergonomic support, and the best seat cushion boosts comfort in any seat.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Modway Articulate Ergonomic
For larger individuals seeking ergonomic comfort without overspending, the Modway Articulate is a top pick among sub-$300 chairs. It blends robust support with superior adjustability.
True Score
62583Experts
797kCustomers
Meh
$118.77Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good ergonomics and adjustability
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Great stability
Reasons to Avoid
- Build quality issues
Specifications
Adjustable Armrests Yes Armrest Height Max 31" Armrest Height Min 27.5" Backrest Height 22" Backrest Width 19" Frame Construction Metal and Plastic Has Footrest No Head Pillow No Head Rest No Lumbar Support Yes Piston Type Pneumatic Lift Recline 120° Seat Depth 21" Seat Height Adjustment 17 – 22" Seat Padding Material Foam Seat Width 17.5" Upholstery Mesh Weight Limit 330 lbs Wheel Type Casters All Specs
Test Results
Max Recline (Degrees) 0 Min Seat Height (Inches) 0 Max Seat Height (Inches) 0 All Retailers
- $118.77
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you are a slightly larger individual who needs a comfortable, ergonomic office chair without breaking the bank, the Modway Articulate Ergonomic chair is the best option on our list of sub-$300 office chairs. It can support up to 330 lbs, making it a robust option for a diverse user base. It also offers impressive ergonomics and adjustability, which are crucial for prolonged work sessions.
One of the chair’s best features is its lumbar support, which is essential for maintaining spinal health and preventing discomfort during long hours of sitting. While its seat width is near the top at 21 inches, it features the widest backrest on our list at 19 inches. The wide range of seat height adjustability, from 17 to 22 inches, ensures compatibility with various desk and user heights and preferences. Unique to this model, the backrest height can be modified between 22 to 26 inches, allowing for unprecedented personalization in back support among its peers.
Although primarily designed for office use with its ergonomic features, the chair’s ability to recline up to 120°, similar to the Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair, adds a layer of flexibility, making it comfortable for taking breaks or leaning back. This reclining function and its ergonomic build demonstrate the chair’s adaptability for more than just office tasks, making it a viable option for light gaming or reading sessions.
The Modway Articulate Ergonomic chair caters to users who prioritize ergonomic support and adjustability. Although not specifically designed for gaming or lounging, its versatile features indicate it can serve well for such activities, making it an appealing choice for those in search of a multi-functional office chair.
Category Snapshot
Office Chairs
- Total Brands/Products Tested
17 Brands, 31 Products
- Top 2 Brands
Steelcase, Herman Miller
- Price Range (Budget-Premium)
$100-$1,000
- Average True Score
80.92
- Important Criteria
Adjustable Lumbar Support
Tilt/Recline Angle
- Most Trusted Testers
- Top Office Chair Experts
- Typical Warranty
1-2 years
Our Approach to Evaluating Office Chairs Under $300
We’ve redefined office chair buying guides, setting us apart from any other site on the planet. Our unique approach normally uses a comprehensive dataset from trusted sites, aggregating testing data to help know what chair you should buy. Sometimes, however, there just isn’t enough testing data – or any data at all.
When it comes to office chairs under $300, we don’t have a lot of testing data to go off of, so we turn to using purely our True Score system to lead the way in identifying the best possible products. We’ve also included some important spec data that will help you better make a decision on a chair that not only fits your budget, but also your body.
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 95+ office chairs reviewers and while 9 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Score), we only use data from the testers that are “very trusted” which means a Trust Score above 70%. The three we have listed below are our most trusted for office chairs.
- Jenny McGraths – Business Insider, MuckRack, Twitter
- Benjamin Hickok – TechGearLab
- 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 Scores 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 Spec Data
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)
Best Office Chairs Under $300: Mistakes To Avoid
- Compromising on Ergonomics: Prioritizing price over ergonomic features may lead to discomfort and potential health issues such as back pain or poor posture. Look for chairs with adjustable lumbar support, seat height, and armrests to ensure proper support during long hours of sitting. Additionally, for those specifically suffering from spinal discomfort, the best office chair for back pain is designed to offer enhanced lumbar and spinal support, greatly reducing the risk of chronic pain conditions.
- Overlooking Build Quality: Opting for a cheaper chair without considering its build quality and materials can result in a shorter lifespan and frequent replacements. Check reviews and specifications to assess durability and sturdiness. If you encounter issues with wear, such as a peeling leather office chair, learning how to fix peeling leather office chair can extend the life of your furniture and maintain its appearance and comfort.
- Ignoring Weight Capacity: Failing to check the weight capacity of the chair can lead to safety hazards and premature wear and tear. Ensure the chair can support your weight adequately to avoid breakage or instability. For larger individuals, the best big and tall office chairs are specifically designed to accommodate higher weight limits and provide additional space, ensuring both comfort and durability.
- Neglecting Adjustability: Chairs with limited adjustability may not cater to individual preferences and body types. Look for models that offer multiple adjustment options to accommodate different users comfortably. Additionally, understanding how to sit correctly in an office chair is crucial for maximizing the benefits of these adjustments, ensuring proper posture and reducing strain on your body throughout the workday.
The Best Office Chairs Under $300 Tests & Specs Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Maximum Recline (Degrees)
|
Minimum Seat Height (inches)
|
Maximum Seat Height (inches)
|
Backrest Height
|
Seat Depth
|
Seat Width |
Lumbar Suppot
|
Adjustable Armrests
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|  $95.37 |
Nypot Premium Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
| 83 |
|
|
|
|
| | |||
83 |
|
|
|
|
| $53.33 | ||||
Kerdom Breathable Mesh Office Chair
| 82 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $189.99 |
| 62 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $118.77 |
