The Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back, priced exceptionally low, delivers basic ergonomics and lumbar support. Nevertheless, fixed armrests and a slender seat cushion could jeopardize posture, leading to strains and discomfort.
Launched in 2021, the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back is a budget-friendly desk chair that features an adjustable height (17.1 to 21.2 inches) and tilt angle but no arm adjustment or recline. Like any best office chair, it comes in several colors (seafoam, gray, black, white, teal, and blue), has a 275lbs weight capacity, and is backed by a 7-year limited warranty.
Its maximum height is 40.3 inches, and seat depth is 18.23 inches. Moreover, it features fixed armrests, nylon base material, and fabric seat cover, and it works best on carpets and hard floors.
Consensus
our Verdict
The Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back is designed for individuals looking for an economical office chair with basic adjustability and lumbar support. Ergonomically, you can tweak the seat height (17.1 to 21.2 inches) and the tilt angle, but nothing more, and it’s recommended to sit in for only four hours at a stretch. Moreover, you can’t comfortably place your elbows on the stationary armrests, which could also potentially collide with your desk’s edge.
Those prioritizing neck support for reduced pain may find its mid-height backrest a bit lacking. However, the slight curve on its soft mesh backrest serves as lumbar support for maintaining proper spinal alignment and preventing musculoskeletal issues. But the thin seat cushion feels hard and uncomfortable when seated for long durations.
Reason to Buy
Basic ergonomics/adjustability
The Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back caters to budget-conscious buyers looking for an office chair but not planning to be seated for long stretches. Its recommended maximum daily use is four hours.
You can adjust the seat height (17.1 to 21.2 inches) and the seat tilt angle.
Somewhat comfortable lumbar support
While there is no adjustable lumbar support, the soft mesh backrest features a slight curve to support the lower back.
Reason to Avoid
Fixed armrests
Fixed armrests may place your arms in awkward positions, leading to discomfort. Additionally, they can be incompatible with your desk, potentially banging against it and causing inconvenience.
No neck support
This chair’s mid-height backrest may not meet your preference if you prioritize neck support to minimize strain.
Thin seat cushion
The thin seat cushion can contribute to poor posture and increased pressure points, resulting in painful strains over time.
Launched in 2021, the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back is a budget-friendly desk chair that features an adjustable height (17.1 to 21.2 inches) and…
Launched in 2021, the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back is a budget-friendly desk chair that features an adjustable height (17.1 to 21.2 inches) and tilt angle but no arm adjustment or recline. Like any best office chair, it comes in several colors (seafoam, gray, black, white, teal, and blue), has a 275lbs weight capacity, and is backed by a 7-year limited warranty.
Its maximum height is 40.3 inches, and seat depth is 18.23 inches. Moreover, it features fixed armrests, nylon base material, and fabric seat cover, and it works best on carpets and hard floors.
The Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back has stationary armrests, whereas the Union & Scale Workplace2.0 Armless Task Chair does away with armrests to maximize…
The Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back has stationary armrests, whereas the Union & Scale Workplace2.0 Armless Task Chair does away with armrests to maximize space. The Workplace2.0 Armless has an upholstered backrest for a soft and cushioned surface, while the Mesh Back, as its name suggests, has a mesh backrest to keep you cool in hot environments.
The BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair includes a built-in padded neck cushion for reduced neck strain, unlike the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back, which has…
The BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair includes a built-in padded neck cushion for reduced neck strain, unlike the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back, which has a shorter mid-backrest. Moreover, the BestOffice Desk Chair has a maximum weight recommendation of 330lbs, slightly higher than the Union and Scale Mesh Back’s 275lbs. For more information, read our BestOffice Ergonomic Desk Chair review.
The IKEA Markus is a much taller chair (55.1 inches) than the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back (40.3 inches). It also has a wider…
The IKEA Markus is a much taller chair (55.1 inches) than the Union and Scale Essentials Mesh Back (40.3 inches). It also has a wider 21.9-inch seat to accommodate heavy-bodied individuals compared to the Mesh Back’s 19.1-inch seat width. Moreover, it has a safety function that locks the castors, preventing the chair from unintentionally rolling when you stand up, a feature lacking in the Mesh Back. To learn more, read this IKEA Markus review. And if you liked the IKEA Markus in white, check out these best white office chairs.