18 Best Ergonomic Chairs – The Ultimate Guide

So what is the best ergonomic chair in 2024? Well, there’s really no definitive objective answer to this as it will depend on what you plan to use the chair for, your budget, and your personal preferences. The Embody Chair by Herman Miller is a definite contender for the top spot, but there are dozens of other fantastic ergonomic chairs that are just as excellent. It really depends on what you’re looking for.

A high-quality ergonomic chair is a big purchase, which means its important to compare all your options before making any decisions, but with so many options to choose from, where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve shortlisted the best 18 ergonomic chairs in 2024, so that all you have to do is read this article and pick your favorite.

What Factors Did We Look For?

Before we jump into our list of the 18 best ergonomic chairs in 2024, we thought you might want to know how we decided which chairs should make the cut. We sifted through the many different gaming chairs on the market and ranked them based on the following 5 key features:

• Lumbar support
• Adjustability
• Breathability
• Comfort/cushioning
• Design

All of the chairs you’ll find on this list scored highly on several of these categories, meaning any chair you choose is guaranteed to do a great job of ensuring that you avoid injuring or straining your back and remain comfortable while sitting.

We also considered affordability in the sense that we tried to include a range of chairs to fit different budgets, but we didn’t rule anything out based on price.

To make things easier for you, we subcategorized the chairs in this list into 4 different categories: luxury, mid-range, budget-friendly, and super budget-friendly. We included 4 chairs in each price category. The lower down the article you go, the cheaper the chairs will get.

Now that’s covered, let’s dive right into the list, starting with the most expensive, luxury ergonomic chairs.

Herman Miller Embody

If an office chair and a human were to somehow breed and produce some kind of mutant chair-human hybrid, this would be it. As the name suggests, Herman Miller’s Embody is a chair that takes its inspiration from – yep, you guessed it – the human body

Designer Bill Stumpf had the incredible idea of creating a backrest which mimics the human spine. This aptly-named ‘exoskeleton’ feature is a backrest that is able to move and bend along with you, mimicking your posture so that you’re comfortable and supported in any position you choose to sit in.

In addition to a spine, this chair also has skin. The chair’s breathable cover, which has been designed to mimic human skin, aids in the circulation of air, helping to keep the user cool. It’s also supposed to stimulate blood flow to guard against ailments like deep vein thrombosis caused by long periods of sitting in one position.

As you’d expect from a 1000 + dollar chair, it also has all the other high-end office/gaming chair features you’d expect, such as an adjustable and innovative armrest design and super-high-quality, dual-caster wheels. All that in a chair that weighs just 52 pounds! Not bad, right?

As you can see, there are lots of reasons why we think this is the number one ergonomic chair for office workers and gamers alike in 2024. The only downside is the high price tag. If it’s out of your budget though, don’t worry, the chairs are only going to get cheaper from here. Let’s move on.

Gesture by Steelcase

We’re still in the luxury chair category, so it might not surprise you to hear that Steelcase’s Gesture is not much cheaper than our number one spot, at around $1400. In fact, if you opt for the leather upholstery option, it’s even pricier than the Embody chair.

However, it’s easy to see why. The designers did their research with this chair and made sure they created something truly revolutionary.

After conducting a global posture study, they identified 9 postures that people tend to sit in which other ergonomic chair solutions just didn’t account for – and created a chair that did. Gesture allows you to be comfortable in pretty much any posture you could possibly imagine.

It actually has a lot in common with Embody. Like Embody, it attempts to mimic human form and motion. It’s LiveBack technology moves with the spine in the same way that Embody’s exoskeleton does. It also has a 360-degree armrest which mimics human arm movement and can be adjusted in any direction or angle.

It’s also comfortable. Really comfortable. The foam-filled seat pan and air pockets underneath keep your back and backside comfy, while the waterfall design encourages you to experiment with different sitting postures.

It’s incredible. It’s also incredibly expensive. Need I say more?

Leap by Steelcase

Coming in at number 3 we have another Steelcase chair, the Leap chair. No surprises there as Steelcase is a prestigious brand in the ergonomic chair scene, so it’s only natural that it holds 2 of the 5 spots in our luxury chair category.

It’s very much the predecessor to the Gesture chair and pioneered the same LiveBack system used in the later model. It has many of the same features as Gesture but supports a slightly less-broad range of postures and user sizes.

Nonetheless, it’s still Steelcase’s number 1 best-selling chair to date and it was even named the best office chair back in 2013 by Wirecutter. It’s Natural Glide System™ technology is still a feature to be reckoned with, perfect for office workers and gamers who want to comfortably recline while working/playing without having to strain their eyes and neck.

As you’d expect, being older than the Gesture, it’s also cheaper. In fact, on the official Steelcase store, there’s less than $5 between the two price tags, which makes Gesture significantly better value for money. However, if you shop around, you might be able to snag a used Leap chair at a bargain.

Aeron Chair by Herman Miller

Hailing from Herman Miller, a name synonymous with quality ergonomic furniture, the Aeron Chair is a testament to the brand’s commitment to comfort, style, and ergonomic functionality. This chair, available in three different sizes and featuring a unique 8Z Pellicle material, ensures body heat passes through the seat and backrest, providing an excellent seating experience devoid of discomfort.

The chair’s adjustable features, including seat tilt mechanism and PostureFit SL back support technology, provide flexible support to the lumbar and base of the spine, encouraging a more active posture and reducing muscle fatigue. Eight zones of varying tension within the back and seat help in eliminating circulation-restricting pressure points.

Moreover, the Aeron Chair stands out as an eco-friendly option as it is composed of recycled materials, aiding in the diversion of plastic waste from the ocean. It comes with a variety of frame and base finishes, including matte, polished, or powder-coated die-cast aluminum, and offers choices in arm pads and casters.

For whom is this chair designed?

The Aeron Chair by Herman Miller is designed for a broad spectrum of users, thanks to its availability in three different sizes. Whether you are looking for a chair that supports prolonged gaming sessions, extensive work hours, or simply want a comfortable space to relax, the Aeron Chair is a suitable choice. Its diverse range and adjustable features make it an ideal fit for individuals seeking a customizable seating experience that prioritizes ergonomic support and comfort.

Ergolux by GM Seating

At number 4 is one of GM Seating’s flagship luxury chairs, the Ergolux. Made of genuine calfskin leather and superior quality materials, this chair is as durable as it is stylish. The waterfall design seat pan minimizes thigh stress while the automatically adjusted lumbar support system supports your back to alleviate back pain.

It scores highly across the board, particularly when it comes to adjustability. The backrest is adjustable for height, the 3D armrests are adjustable in all directions and angles, the headrest height and angle is adjustable, and the seat slide is adjustable. Basically, everything’s adjustable! You can set these adjustments to perfectly fit your posture and body shape for maximum comfort and ergonomic support.

Zody Chair by Haworth

Our next spot for ergonomic chairs in the luxury category goes to Haworth’s Zody Chair. This science-backed task chair is slick, stylish, comfortable, and versatile. The blue and white design (a personal favorite of mine) wouldn’t look out of place in an office of the future.

A lot of research has gone into making this chair as ergonomic as possible, which explains why it’s recommended by the American Physiotherapy Centre. It’s especially well-suited to people that work at taller workstations and has an adjustable height range of between 22 and 29 inches.

It’s asymmetrical lumbar adjustment system, which allows users to adjust the level of support on each side of their lower back, is one of the standout features of this chair. It also has a 3-point tilt mechanism, 3 inches worth of adjustable seat depth, a multi-position backstop, and much more. At just under $900, it’s also the cheapest luxury chair on this list.

Noblechairs ICON

The ICON Real Leather Chair (Cognac/Black) by NobleChairs is, in a word, classy. This chair looks and feels like pure luxury despite between the high and the mid-range price tag. It has a streamlined shape designed to work with and protect the natural curvature of your spine.

The ICON is also highly durable due to the denser (but still comfortable) cold foam upholstery and should be highly resistant to wear. This long-lasting chair will still look and feel good like new even after months of extended periods of use. It also comes with free head and lumbar pillows for added comfort.

Overall, it’s a stylish and durable chair that’s perfect for minimalists who are looking for a chair that oozes elegance and style.

Ergohuman Mesh by Eurotech

Bridging the gap between luxury and mid-range ergonomic office/gaming chairs is the Ergohuman Mesh chair by Eurotech. It’s available for between $600 and $800, depending on the retailer you purchase from, which means that it’s still pretty expensive, but not quite as expensive as the luxury chairs that we’ve covered so far.

It’s probably the best chair in the mid-range category, and for good reason. Boasting 8 different ergonomic adjustments, including tilt lock, arm height, tension control, seat back angle and more, this chair is about as adjustable as they come.

It’s highly breathable too. The upholstery of the chair is completely made out of a breathable mesh material, which aids in heat dissipation and air circulation, keeping you from getting too sweaty at work or during intense gaming sessions.

If you’re a conscious consumer, this chair won’t disappoint. It’s incredibly eco-friendly as it’s made out of 97% post-use recyclables. That means purchasing this chair comes with the added benefit of knowing you’re doing your bit to save the planet!

The butterfly-wind-esque design, chrome/polypropylene base, and nylon dual caster wheels are just a few of the other features that we loved about this chair.

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022

Next up is the TITAN Evo Series ergonomic chair by Secretlab. This is another gaming chair that doubles up as a great office chair. Everything about this chair is comfortable and durable, from the thick, firm core of cold foam to the XL PU casters.

The TITAN Evo chair comes with integrated adjustable lumbar support – the kind of feature you’d only usually expect to see on the seats of high-end, luxury cars. In fact, Secretlab prides themselves on creating chairs that are inspired by real car racing seats. That means seats with ergonomic designs that, as they put it, “provide advanced lateral support and weight distribution”.

The cushioning on the TITAN Evo Series is out of this world, and the chair can handle loads up to 130kg easily, which is great news for any big and tall gamers/workers out there! Another bonus is the fact that the TITAN Evo Series has full-length backrest recline capabilities, meaning you recline all the way and take a nap in your chair if you feel like it. There’s also, not just 3D, but 4D adjustable armrests that have been coated with PU for added grip.

Sayl Chair by Herman Miller

You’ll probably remember Herman Miller as the brand that brought us the chair that took our number 1 spot – the Embody chair. The Sayl chair is the brand’s still-awesome-but-much-cheaper alternative for people looking for a more affordable mid-range ergonomic chair.

It might not have some of the fancy features that the Embody has ( like the ‘exoskeleton’), but it does still have the super-breathable, skin-like mesh back that keeps you cool and improves air circulation.

It also has cool-sounding ergonomic features like a ‘3D Intelligent back’, ‘PostureFit’ technology, and ‘Dynamic support’. All these features work together to support your spine to maintain a healthy posture. Oh, and did I mention that it looks awesome?

Elusion Series Mesh Chair by Alera

Now we’re moving into the best budget ergonomic chairs on the market, and what could be a better chair to kick us off than the Elusion Series Mesh Mid-Back Swivel/Tilt Chair by Alera®.

This chair scores highly on breathability on account of its mesh upholstery. It also comes with many familiar features from the mid-range and luxury chairs, such as a ‘waterfall edge’ and tilt technology.

It doesn’t look like anything special (it looks like your typical office chair), but sometimes the most simple designs are the best! The armrests are adjustable for both width and height and the back offers a lot of ergonomic support. It’s a solid value option.

Autonomous ErgoChair 2

The Ergochair 2 by Autonomous is hands-down my favorite chair in the budget ergonomic chair category. At around $300, it offers superb value for money. In fact, I’m not sure how this can be priced so low, considering how awesome it looks and how advanced some of the ergonomic features it has are.

The chair’s fully-adjustable design allows you to have 360° of flexibility, while fully supporting your entire body in literally any seating position or posture. The tilt tension mechanism is intuitive, allowing you to tailor the level of support and resistance to your requirements/preferences.

It also has a breathable, Korean mesh, super-comfortable headrest, fully-adjustable lumbar support, and more. I’d definitely recommend this chair for anyone looking for an affordable ergonomic seating solution.

Wellness by Design AIR by Serta

One of the standout features of Serta’s Wellness by Design AIR chair is the ‘posture-correcting tilt technology’. This is a kind of lumbar support which pushes your pelvis forward whenever you lean, preventing you from slouching and making sure you maintain good posture.

It’s adjustable in all the standard ways that you’d expect (tilt, armrest, height) but lacks some of the advanced adjustments that some of the higher-end chairs have.

It’s also quite a bulky chair upholstered in leather. While this is comfortable and stylish (if you like leather designs), it’s definitely not very breathable. This means that the chair gets hot quickly, and can become a little sticky and uncomfortable.

That being said, no budget chair is perfect, so if you’re willing to sacrifice on breathability, this is still a good option.

Executive Ergonomic by Office Factor

Another standard office chair, this executive ergonomic office chair by Office Factor features a mesh back, heavy-duty design (supporting up to 250 lbs), a comfortable, thick-padded seat, and gas lift for easy height adjustment. You can also adjust the back tilt into any of four lockable positions. The armrests aren’t adjustable but they are flip up for eay access.

Nothing special here, but for less than $200, it’s not a bad option for people looking for an affordable quick-fix.

RESPAWN-200 Racing by RESPAWN

Our last budget ergonomic chair spot goes to another gaming chair, Respawn’s RESPAWN-200 Racing Style Gaming Chair. One great thing about this chair is that it has a breathable mesh back, something which a lot of other gaming chairs tend to lack.

It also has a bonded leather seat, 130 degrees recline control with infinite tilt lock, a solid steel-tube frame construction able to hold loads up to 275 lbs, and adjustable lumbar support.

On top of all that, it also comes with a headrest pillow and 2D armrests which are height and depth adjustable. Ok, so they’re not 3D armrests, but who cares when it costs just under $300? The price more than makes up for it!

Ergonomic Mesh by Cedric

This chair features a mesh design, solid structure, and lumbar support which can be adapted for different body types. It also has adjustable armrests and headrests for shoulder and neck comfort.

One of the best features of this chair is its high weight capacity of 350 lbs, which makes it suitable for big and tall users.

Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair

Important Facts:

Feature	Detail
Adjustability	Highly adjustable with lockable recline angles
Material	High-quality mesh and cushion seat
Weight Capacity	330 LBS
Warranty	5-Year Warranty, 90-day trial
Installation	Easy to install, approximately 15 minutes
Additional Features	Adjustable lumbar support, headrest, and armrests; Rollerblade caster wheels
Customer Service	Quick and responsive, addressing users’ needs effectively
Suitability	Ideal for individuals requiring prolonged periods of seating, such as office and home-based professionals

Created with a sleek, all-black design and high-quality mesh materials, the Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair is more than a typical office chair; it offers unparalleled comfort and adjustability. Unlike many office chairs, Duramont’s model features a second adjustment lever, allowing users to lock in any recline angle, ensuring a comfortable seating position tailored to individual needs. This ergonomic design coupled with the breathable mesh keeps the back cool and comfortable, reducing sweat and allowing prolonged periods of use.

The chair is characterized by its robust build, supporting up to 330 lbs, and its incorporation of quality materials, including sturdy arm and headrests and a soft cushion seat, ensuring long-lasting durability and comfort. The rollerblade caster wheels are a valuable addition, allowing smooth movement across the office floor without causing any damage. Additionally, the chair boasts a 5-year warranty, emphasizing its quality and durability, and a 90-day trial during which users can determine if the chair meets their needs.

Moreover, the Duramont office chair is user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process that takes no more than 15 minutes, and a highly adjustable design that enables users to tailor the chair to their unique needs, focusing on the armrests, base, and back area (lumbar support).

For whom is this chair designed?

The Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair is designed for individuals who value comfort, adjustability, and quality in an office chair. It is especially suitable for those who spend long periods sitting, such as office workers or home-based professionals, and require a chair that can be tailored to their specific needs, preventing back issues and ensuring optimal comfort throughout the day. The ease of installation and adjustment make it a viable choice for individuals who seek hassle-free ergonomic solutions in office seating.

AmazonBasics High Back Executive Chair

Our final and cheapest chair on this list is the AmazonBasics High Back Executive Chair. You’ll find this chair on pretty much every list of the best budget ergonomic chairs out there, and for good reason.

As the name suggests, it’s basic, but it nonetheless has some great ergonomic features like good neck support, a high back, thick cushioning and great neck support. If the price is your top priority, this chair wins hands down.

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Why the Right Ergonomic Chair is Essential

Choosing the right ergonomic chair is not just about luxury or status; it’s about your health and well-being. Prolonged sitting in a non-ergonomic chair can lead to severe health issues like chronic back pain, neck strain, and even conditions like sciatica. It impacts your posture, the alignment of your spine, and can also lead to the development of pressure points. Therefore, it’s crucial to invest in a chair that promotes correct posture, reduces pressure on the lower back, and encourages movement.

The Importance of Material and Build Quality

When selecting the right ergonomic chair, the material and build quality are paramount. A well-built chair made from high-quality materials will not only last longer but also provide consistent support and comfort. Chairs with a solid frame, durable fabric or leather, and quality foam or cushioning are typically the ones that stand the test of time and use.

The build quality also affects the overall user experience. Chairs with smooth reclining mechanisms, adjustable components that stay in place, and wheels that glide effortlessly are usually indicative of superior build quality. It’s essential to consider these factors, especially for those who spend several hours a day seated at a desk, to ensure longevity and maintain optimal health and comfort.

Diverse Needs, Diverse Options

Given the vast range of ergonomic chairs available in the market in 2024, there’s something for everyone. For individuals who prefer mesh back chairs for better breathability and comfort, options like the Ergohuman Mesh by Eurotech or the Elusion Series Mesh Mid-Back Swivel/Tilt Chair by Alera® are worth considering. These chairs are designed to provide optimal airflow, reducing sweat and discomfort during long sitting sessions.

For those who prefer a more plush and cushioned seating experience, the Wellness by Design AIR by Serta and the AmazonBasics High Back Executive Chair could be more suitable. These chairs offer a luxurious feel, coupled with ample support, making them ideal for extended periods of sitting.

Sustainability and Ethical Manufacturing

In today’s world, sustainability and ethical manufacturing are becoming increasingly important. When considering purchasing an ergonomic chair, it is beneficial to research the manufacturing practices of the companies and prefer those that are committed to minimizing environmental impact and ensuring ethical labor practices. Some companies have incorporated recyclable materials and eco-friendly processes in their production lines, contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Understanding Your Own Needs

Finally, understanding your needs is crucial when selecting the right ergonomic chair. If you suffer from chronic back pain, focusing on chairs that offer superior lumbar support like the Embody by Herman Miller would be beneficial. For those who have a more flexible budget and are looking for luxury and aesthetics along with ergonomics, chairs like the Gesture by Steelcase or the ICON Real Leather Chair by NobleChairs are excellent choices.

It is crucial to test different chairs and assess them based on your body type, preferences, and specific needs. Evaluating the chair’s adjustability, including the seat height, backrest angle, and armrest position, can help in finding the perfect chair that aligns with your requirements. Additionally, take into account the chair’s compatibility with your workspace and desk height to ensure seamless integration and optimal comfort.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, the quest for the best ergonomic chair in 2024 is a subjective journey. Whether it’s the luxurious Embody by Herman Miller, the affordable and comfortable Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair by Cedric, or anything in between, each chair on this list brings something unique to the table. It is imperative to balance budget, preferences, health needs, and ethical considerations when making a choice. With careful consideration and informed decisions, you can find a chair that is not just ergonomically beneficial but also a valuable addition to your workspace.

Related Questions

How much should I spend on an ergonomic chair?

In order to be able to afford a chair which has all the features expert ergonomists recommend, you should expect to spend around $300-$500. While it’s possible to find chairs cheaper than this, they’re unlikely to offer the same level of ergonomic support and design. Here you can find our Best Ergonomic Chairs under $500

What should I look for in an ergonomic chair?

To reduce pressure on your lower back, ergonomic chairs should have some form of lumbar support. They also need to be adaptable to your body shape and posture so that you can be comfortable in any position. For this reason, you should look for adjustable backrests, seat depth, and armrests. Ideally, your knees should be above your hips while your feet are pressed flat against the ground.

Why do I need an ergonomic chair?

Sitting down for long periods of time puts pressure on your spine which can result in lower back pain. In fact, lower back pain is one of the most common ailments treated by physiotherapists and doctors. Ergonomic chairs can help reduce the impact on your lower back while sitting down, help you to maintain good posture, and be more comfortable.