9 Best Ergonomic Office Chairs in Australia (2024)

There are many ergonomic office chairs in Australia, and picking the right one can be tough. I had the same challenge when I needed an office chair for my home office, so I learned everything I could about them – how they're built, their design and building materials, and how they work.

Armed with this knowledge, I evaluated ergonomic chairs available in Australia. What you're about to read is the culmination of my research; a list of the nine office chairs that, in my honest opinion, are worth the price. I'll keep this guide up to date to save you both time and money. Let's get started.

My Top Picks

Need to decide quickly? Here are my top three ergonomic chairs in Australia:

ErgoTune Supreme

The best ergonomic office chair for most people. It features 11 points of adjustments for good comfort and prolonged use.

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SIHOO M57

The best budget ergonomic office chair with essential adjustable features for comfort, good quality build, and value for money.

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Herman Miller Cosm

A high-end, luxurious ergonomic chair with advanced features and superior adjustability for the best in comfort and ergonomics.

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Top 9 Ergonomic Chairs for Aussies: In-Depth Review and Comparisons

My research of the top ergonomic office chairs in Australia considered each chair's comfort, adjustability, build quality, ease of assembly, style and aesthetics, price, and warranty. The goal was to have and provide you with a comprehensive guide to make an informed choice based on your needs.

1. ErgoTune Supreme

Best Overall Office Chair in Australia

The ErgoTune Supreme is one of the best desk chairs available to Australians. This ergonomic chair outperforms most standard office chairs in areas like ergonomics, comfort, style, build quality, and ease of assembly. It’s also versatile enough for different uses, like office work and gaming. Here’s a look at its best features and some drawbacks to consider:

Best Bits of the ErgoTune Supreme

To begin with, the desk chair is a perfect fit for most body sizes due to its size options. ErgoTune offers three chair height options:

• small (up to 159 cm),
• medium (160 to 179 cm),
• and tall (180 to 210 cm).

These are essential to avoid strain and aches associated with incorrect chair sizes when choosing an ergonomic office chair. It also has a Class IV hydraulic gas lift, which helps you adjust the height easily.

Besides its size options, the Supreme is also highly adjustable, beating the SIHOO M57 and Elite Office X-Ergo Range, its closest competitors, with its 11 points of adjustment. It features an adjustable headrest, an adaptable lumbar support system, moveable armrests, and a tilt-tension knob that can easily adjust the tension of the chair’s recline. The height and depth of the seat are also adjustable, making it suitable for most people.

ErgoTune's armrests are GryoBase 5-dimensional. They are not only height-adjustable but also freely rotatable and can pivot up to 270 degrees. It has a fully adjustable head and neck support that makes it best for anyone who suffers from neck or shoulder stiffness and pain.

While I'm not a big user of neck support in ergonomic chairs, the TriTune 3D headrest of ErgoTune offers good support. It adjusts vertically, horizontally, and angularly to perfectly fit your neck support needs and keep you fresh during those long working hours on your desk.

To improve its level of support further, the backrest of the ErgoTune office chair has an advanced ATLAS lumbar support that adapts to your spine. You can adjust the tension of this lumbar support to your comfort level.

Learn why lumbar support matters in an ergonomic office chair. They are a key purchasing factor that you must not ignore.

ErgoTune Supreme is built with mesh. It features the DuraWeave hybrid mesh fabric, which I found very comfortable. The chair's upholstery, on the other hand, is a blend of fabric and polyester in a 2:1 ratio, combining the goodness of fabric strength and mesh breathability.

The office chair uses the synchro-tilt mechanism available in high-end ergonomic chairs. This advanced mechanism allows the seat angle to tilt for 5 degrees when the backrest reclines for 10 degrees, developing a sense of stability so you don’t feel like losing balance while leaning back for rest.

This is impressively complemented by ErgoTune Supreme's TrueTilt Precision Recline Controls, which lets you adjust both the recline angle and recline tension of the office chair. Just unlock the tilt, lean back smoothly up to 136 degrees, and relax your muscles after a long day's work.

ErgoTune is easy to assemble. It has a detailed instruction guide with six simple and straightforward steps. There's a video option for visual learners, which is only about two minutes long—I've included it above.

One of my favourite things was the company's risk-free return policy. You get 21 days to return the product starting from the date of purchase. Likewise, the manufacturer offers a default four-year warranty and a two-year extension, bringing the total to six years.

ErgoTune's warranty duration is only rivalled by Herman Miller Cosm's 12-year warranty and the Buro Tidal, ErgoFlip Delexe, and Desky's 10-year warranty.

Areas for Improvement

While the benefits of ErgoTune Supreme are many, there are some negatives. First, its arm pads are not quite as soft as they could be, making them slightly less comfortable if used for a long time. They also don’t go very low, so shorter people might find them a bit too high.

Another challenge is that the mesh material on ErgoTune Supreme gets stained easily. To cover against this, choose the charcoal black colour shown below.

Lastly, the office chair's headrest is without a tilt lock. Maybe they left an open ball joint to give it a free rotation per the user’s movements, but I would prefer to lock it at a place while working to avoid distraction and offer maximum support for the head.

Overall Verdict

The ErgoTune Supreme offers good value for your money, featuring all the essential functions of a high-end desk chair while remaining moderately priced and more durable than lower-end desk chairs. It’s comfortable, adjustable, and strong enough to last for years to come.

I recommend it if you have posture problems and need neck and lumbar support. It's also ideal for anyone living in a hot or warmer climate as it ensures adequate airflow, thanks to the mesh material. Here's how that office chair performed compared to the other products on this list:

ErgoTune Supreme offers excellent value for Australians who aren't great fans of lower-end desk chairs but are unwilling to pay a huge amount for one, either. I am so impressed by this ergonomic chair that I wrote a detailed and dedicated ErgoTune Supreme review.

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2. SIHOO M57

Best Budget Office Chair for Australians

The SIHOO M57 is the best budget office chair option for Australians. SIHOO produces some of the finest desk chairs globally and in Australia because of their ergonomics and competitive pricing.

Pros of the SIHOO M57

SIHOO's M57 Office Chair is practical and durable, featuring a high-density mesh designed in a W-shaped curved seat pan that is firm, comfortable, and inviting. Like the ErgoTune Supreme, its breathable mesh back ensures your comfort throughout the day, especially in warm climates.

The lightweight office chair is easy to move around. Its tilt mechanism lets you adjust the angle of the seat to suit your multitasking needs and work in different positions. It also features an adjustable lower-back lumbar support for personalised adjustment in an up/down and a front/back direction. The double-supported backrest adds extra strength to the frame.

For added comfort, the M57 ergonomic chair features an adjustable headrest, height, tilt, and a 3D armrest. The height-adjustable headrest offers a 45-degree roll-back rotation from the top to fit different user heights. Although the ErgoTune Supreme features a lockable backrest, the SIHOO M57 outshines it with 3 lock tilt positions at 110, 120, and 130 degrees.

SIHOO M57 has a 360-degree swivel and the option to adjust the seat height. Additionally, its soft PU 3D armrests provide added comfort while typing or writing. You can adjust the height of the armrests, move them back and forth, and even rotate them up to a 36-degree angle.

The M57 also features an aluminum alloy base like ErgoTune Supreme. Its sturdy construction and durable materials ensure longevity. I recommend the office chair for anyone who needs an affordable ergonomic chair that provides excellent support for long hours at the office.

Assembling the SIHOO M57 chair is a straightforward process. The package includes nine main components: a headrest, backrest, seat, seat tilt adjuster (or tension control), armrests, gas lift cylinder, casters (or wheels), base, and a toolset with spare screws and washers.

Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Attach the five wheels securely to the base, then place the base upright and insert the gas lift cylinder into the center.
• Step 2: Fasten the armrests and tension control to the seat, then slide and screw the backrest into it.
• Step 3: Finally, lift the seat and backrest and rest the set on the gas lift cylinder. Don't forget to slot the headrest into position.

Cons of the SIHOO M57

The M57 budget chair offers adjustable lumbar support with a centre-tilt mechanism. Obviously, a synchro-tilt mechanism would've been much better. Still, it's hard to complain at this price point. If you want a more satisfying rocking motion, consider buying the Desky Pro+ or ErgoTune Supreme.

SIHOO's M57 also ships with a three-year warranty for full parts at zero cost to you. While this is a shorter duration than the 6-year warranty offered by ErgoTune, it's still a great deal considering the chair's affordability. If you can afford a few more hundred dollars, the ErgoTune Supreme might be better for you due to its longer warranty period.

Overall Verdict

The SIHOO M57 may not be the most visually exciting ergonomic chair, but it's undoubtedly a valuable choice. And while the build quality might not match the level of ErgoTune Supreme, Buro Tidal, or the Herman Miller Cosm, getting rid of lumbar pain is rare at this price point.

Likewise, the ergonomic chair provides sufficient comfort for an 8-hour workday with minimal strains. Its mesh back ensures you're warm enough to work for extended periods, especially in warmer climates. I compared it with the other ergonomic chairs on this list, and this is how it fared:

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3. Buro Tidal Mesh Back Chair

Best Australian-Made Office Chair

The Buro Tidal Mesh Back chair is 100% made in Australia and endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association. It has a modern design and is constructed from top-of-the-line materials for good comfort, support, and durability.

Best Bits of the Buro Tidal Chair

Like all other ergonomic chairs, Buro Tidal has many adjustment points for optimal sitting posture and comfort. The chair has adjustable armrests, seat height and depth, lumbar support, backrest, and tilt tension.

Its built-in lumbar support and backrest provide excellent flexibility, with the backrest height further fine-tuned using a ratchet mechanism. You also get a gas lift mechanism for easy seat height adjustment as well as slide the seat forward or backward to customise its depth.

The office chair also includes a tension-adjustable tilt mechanism for added adjustability and customisable comfort. Tilt tension lets you decide how much you want to recline and the force needed. And for safety, it’s lockable.

Another distinctive feature of Buro Tidal’s tilt mechanism is that it has independent settings that allow you to adjust the back tilt and seat tilt—almost like an asynchronous tilting mechanism.

For its build materials, Buro Tidal has a breathable mesh backrest to help keep you comfortable while working. It's one of the very few office chairs that pair a mesh back with a cushioned seat.

The high-density moulded foam seat on the ergonomic chair supports an optimal seating position while the mesh back keeps you cool in hot weather. Its contoured seat cushion is also upholstered in soft living fabric and includes a waterfall edge that improves healthy circulation.

Buro Tidal has a weight capacity of 150 kg. On purchase, you choose between armrests or no armrests and two colour options: black and teal. The chair weighs 23.5 kg with the armrest and 20.3 kg without it.

What Can Be Improved?

It's not all jolly. Buro Tidal's 2D armrests and the absence of headrests are some of its major cons. Unlike the 4D and 5D armrests of SIHOO 57 and ErgoTune Supreme, respectively, the mesh back chair only offers the option to adjust the height and width of your armrests. So, if you're keen on having a headrest, consider the ErgoTune or SIHOO M57.

The Buro Tidal also features a nylon base, which is slightly less sturdy than the aluminum bases found in other chairs at a similar price point. Additionally, it uses a simpler tilt mechanism. However, the chair remains comfortable and provides solid support for long work hours.

Overall Verdict

The Buro Tidal office chair doesn't try to be anything out of the ordinary; it simply gets the job done. For proud Aussies like me, the fact that it's locally manufactured is a significant plus. The company also offers a 10-year guarantee on the office chair. Here's how it ranked compared to the others:

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4. NOUHAUS Posture Ergonomic Chair

Best Value Executive Office Chair

The NOUHAUS Posture Office Chair is the best value option for anyone seeking an executive office chair. It has a weight capacity of 108 kg and a class 4 heavy-duty hydraulic gas lift that handles pressure well.

Best Bits of the NOUHAUS Posture Chair

The NOUHAUS Posture offers good comfort and support thanks to its unique and highly adjustable design. It has a patented adjustable lumbar support system, an adjustable tilt mechanism, armrests, and seat height adjustments (50 - 60 cm). The desk chair is also equipped with a Open Cell foam cushion that supports your head and provides superior comfort.

The FlipAdjust armrest offers the flexibility to use the desk chair with or without it—you can flip the armrest up to create an armless chair. When required, you can flip it back down to rest your arms on soft PU-coated armrests and spend long hours working or playing your favourite games.

NOUHAUS also offers a distinctive feature that is rare to find in other top ergonomic office chairs—the Click 5 lumbar support, which lets you choose between five levels of lumbar support positions.

For relaxation, the executive chair has an adjustable TiltRock mechanism with a synchro-recline of up to 135 degrees. This lets you find the most comfortable angle to keep the backrest locked in place while cleaning back.

NOUHAUS provides a generous 55 cm of hip space between the armrests, ensuring you have plenty of room and don’t feel confined or restricted while working. This extra width improves the chair's comfort, allowing for natural movement and a more relaxed sitting experience.

The NOUHAUS Posture Chair is designed for strength and durability, featuring PU leather upholstery that resists stains and adds to its longevity. Its heavy-duty nylon wheelbase enhances stability, and it comes with a full-year manufacturing warranty from the date of purchase.

Room for Improvement

One downside of the NOUHAUS chair is the silver finish on certain parts, which is prone to scratching. It would be much more beneficial if NOUHAUS used a more durable finish that resists scratches.

I also found reviews that suggest that the seat height isn't suitable for individuals shorter than 5'8". To ensure your office chair meets your ideal height, use our chair and height calculator to find the best range.

Overall Verdict

The NOUHAUS Posture office chair features simple construction yet is very comfortable. I recommend it if you fancy an executive office chair that offers excellent support and comfort. Here's a summary of how it performed compared to the other chairs on this list:

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5. Desky Swivel 3D Tilt Drafting Chair

Best Drafting Chair

For an ergonomic drafting chair, the Desky Swivel 3D Tilt Drafting Chair is the best pick. It delivers excellent comfort and functionality to work for longer periods without any discomfort.

Pros of the Desky 3D Drafting Chair

The Desky Swivel 3D Tilt chair allows a full 360º tilt. You can lean forward, draw, and draft comfortably while finding the perfect angle for your table or desk. Like a sit-stand desk, this flexibility promotes micro-movements, which is important to avoid sedentary behaviour.

The drafting chair uses a gas-powered pneumatic lever, so you can effortlessly adjust the seat height. Plus, unlike most drafting chairs, Desky's backrest provides lumbar and upper back support to maintain good posture. It's also made of a PP shell, which is easy to clean and durable. The seat upholstery, however, is made of PVC material that is fairly cushioned and easy to wipe.

The swivel chair, with its solid metal base and 5 casters, has a weight capacity of up to 150 kg. It also has rubber feet that help protect your floors from scuffs and scratches. Priced at A$349, I recommend the budget-friendly sit-stand chair if you use a height-adjustable desk.

Cons of Desky's Drafting Chair

The Desky sit-stand chair has a hard plastic backrest that can be comfortable on hot days. Secondly, despite its weight capacity, it has a relatively narrow seat that is not suitable for larger users. I'd also recommend adding a thicker layer of soft padding to the seat to improve comfort.

Overall Verdict

The Desky Swivel 3D Tilt chair was the only drafting chair worth adding to my list. While it has its fair share of drawbacks, its 10-year limited warranty, quality build, and durable material make it a great investment. I compared it with the other ergonomic chairs on this list. Here's how it fared:

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6. Desky Pro+ Ergonomic Chair

Best Ergonomic Office Chair With a Fabric Seat

The Desky Pro+ is a great option if you're not a fan of all-mesh ergonomic office chairs. The chair offers a fabric seat, mesh back, and a 150 kg weight capacity, just like the Buro Tidal Chair, but with added ergonomics such as a built-in headrest and a synchro-tilt mechanism.

Best Bits of the Desky Pro+ Chair

Desky's Pro+ strikes a delicate balance between aesthetics and ergonomics. This stylish chair seems to combine the attractive looks of the Herman Miller Aeron Chair and the ergonomics of the ErgoTune Supreme.

I recommend it not only for its looks but also for its many ergonomic features, such as pneumatically-adjusted seat height, armrest height & swivel adjustment, knee tilt, manually-adjusted headrest height, tilt lock, manually-adjusted backrest height, depth-adjustable lumbar support, and full synchro backrest reclining along with manual control of tilt mechanism.

The synchro-tilt is one of my favourite features of Desky's Pro+ ergonomic chair. Desky pairs this with a knee-tilt tension control that allows you to keep your feet on the ground as you tilt while keeping your gaze straight. This redistributes pressure from your back to your feet and allows you to stretch your upper torso without excessive pressure on your thighs.

Desky Pro+ also allows backrest angle adjustment to set the height and lumbar depth for optimal support. You can lock the seat back of this chair in one of 3 positions or leave it unlocked to move freely.

You can also make smooth adjustments to the seat height via pneumatic cylinders. I also really liked that it features an easy-access item compartment under the seat where you can keep small items.

To reduce neck and shoulder strain, the adjustable arm and headrest lets you lock yourself into the correct posture as you work. The armrests swivel and are height-adjustable, while the adjustable headrest provides optimal support to your head and neck when you recline.

The Desky Pro+ office chair is available in black and white finishes. It has a minimalistic design, with only a few levers available in sight, and the control notches cleverly placed to give a sleek and modern look.

You also get aluminum alloy at the base, like the ErgoTune Supreme for sturdiness, added safety, and longevity.

Again, like the Buro Tidal, the smart combination of breathable mesh back and fabric seat on the Desky Pro+ gives you the best of both worlds in comfort and ventilation. The ergonomically designed soft-contoured seat relieves the pressure on your bottom and improves blood circulation.

For return and warranty, Desky offers a 7-day return policy to send the chair back in its original condition to get a full refund. I recommend familiarising yourself with Desky's return policies before purchasing. The manufacturer also offers a 10-year warranty from the date of delivery.

What Can Improve?

There's very little to dislike about the Desky Pro+ ergonomic chair, as it's a high-end office chair that leaves no stone unturned. My only challenge is with the armrests, which only allow you to adjust the height and swivel compared to the 4D and 5D armrests of SIHOO57 and ErgoTune Supreme.

I also find that for people over 190 cm in height, the Desky Pro+, much like most office chairs, would have you sitting a little low. And while the seat depth adjustment isn't manually adjustable, you can manage that automatically as you recline in the desk chair.

Overall Verdict

The Desky Pro+ is an excellent ergonomic chair. Most importantly, it's an exceptional balance of eye-pleasing aesthetics and premium ergonomics. Here's how it compares to the other options on this list.

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7. ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Office Chair

Best Dual/Active Office Chair

The ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Chair offers a unique dual-seat design that provides the perfect balance of comfort and active sitting. The office chair promotes healthy posture, reduces muscle fatigue, and encourages increased movement during long hours at the office.

Best Bits of ErgoFlip Active Office Chair

The ErgoFlip Deluxe has a 2-in-1 seat design with a conventional foam-padded upholstered seat on one side and an active fit-ball surface on the other.

The conventional seat offers comfort and support for extended sitting sessions, while the active surface promotes core activation, improved posture, and increased blood flow to combat sedentary behaviour.

The chair also has ergonomic features, including seat tilt adjustment, backrest tilt control, seat height adjustment with gas lift, and optional adjustable armrests. Its built-in adjustable lumbar support caters to various heights, ensuring customised lower back support and proper posture.

ErgoFlip's Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Office Chair is constructed with high-quality materials for durability and longevity. The mesh backrest is breathable and conforms to your body shape. Likewise, the seat cushion, covered in water-resistant stock CS black house fabric, is designed to resist wear and tear and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

The chair's sturdy five-star alloy base and smooth-rolling casters support weights up to 135 kg, a little less than 150 kg offered by the SIHOO M57, Buro Tidal, and Desky Pro+ ergonomic chairs. You also get a 10-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee to test it risk-free.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its innovative approach to combating sedentary behaviours, the ErgoFlip 2-in-1 Active Chair is slightly overpriced and has a learning curve associated with using the active surface effectively. The chair also has limited colour and fabric options to complement your office space.

Overall Verdict

I recommend ErgoFlip's Active Chair if you want the experience of comfort and productivity while maintaining your health and well-being.

Despite being slightly pricier, the chair's long-term benefits, such as improved posture, core strength, and overall well-being, make a case for itself. Here's a summary of the chair's ratings out of five:

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8. Herman Miller Cosm

Best High-End Ergonomic Chair

The nightfall finish on Herman Miller's Cosm desk chair is my favourite among all the ergonomic chairs in Australia I reviewed. It's one out of five excellent colour options to choose from when you purchase the chair

Pros of the Herman Miller Cosm Chair

Herman Miller left no stone unturned in the build quality and design of the premium desk chair. It has a stylish design with stunning curves that are greatly complemented by its sturdy and exceptional build quality. Almost surprising as it's built primarily from recyclable plastics and aluminium.

The Cosm combines a flexible frame, intercept suspension, and auto-harmonic tilt for good comfort and support.

The office chair is available in three sizes; low-back, mid-back, and high-back, allowing you to choose the one that best complements your height. The backrest offers well-disposed lumbar support for good comfort but allows you to add extra cushioning for additional comfort.

Herman Miller Cosm's frame and auto-harmonic tilt instantly respond to the movements and provide weightless support with automatic adjustments, so you don't need to make any adjustments manually.

As a fan of mesh chairs, I appreciate the use of breathable mesh material at the back and seat. The build material choice, combined with the lumbar support, offers very good back support, provides dynamic spinal support, and enhances good sitting posture.

Herman Miller offers four armrest options. You get to choose between no armrests, a fixed armrest, an adjustable armrest, and a leaf armrest.

The leaf armrest is frustrating to use as it has indirect control over your elbow position. I recommend the adjustable armrest option for ease of use; they allow you to manually adjust the height and angle.

Similarly, you can choose between carpet casters and hard floor + carpet casters with a quiet roll when purchasing. Speaking of ease of setup, another additional support you get from Herman Miller is that you need not worry about the assembly of your chair. The Cosm arrives fully assembled at your doorstep. You just need to pop the package, and you're ready to go.

Herman Miller does exceptionally well in meeting the expectations of higher-end desk chair users. And that's typical of all chairs included in this manufacturer's lineup. The Cosm's weight, tilt mechanism, adjustabilities, and ergonomic features speak to the desk chair's excellent value proposition.

It's not surprising that it's priced much higher than many of the top-of-the-line office chairs. You get a 2-week refund and return policy. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, just send it back and get a full refund. I recommend reading about its return policies before purchasing.

Cons of the Herman Miller Cosm

The automation of the Herman Miller Cosm adds to its fanciness and value. While excellent, it takes some time to get used to. Plus, I still sometimes feel the need to adjust things manually. The office chair is also without a headrest, which is present in almost all other high-end ergonomic chairs.

Overall Verdict

For those looking for a top-of-the-line, luxurious ergonomic office chair, the Herman Miller Cosm is a perfect choice. Its advanced features, adjustability, and design make it the ideal choice for anyone who wants the best in comfort and ergonomics. It also features a distinctive auto-harmonic tilt mechanism to recline comfortably and naturally while using the office chair.

So, while it's very expensive, you get an office chair that can last far past a decade of continuous use. The desk chair also comes with a 12-year warranty that covers almost everything: tilts, pneumatic cylinders, electrical components, casters, and all moving mechanisms. How does the Herman Miller Cosm stack up compared to other desk chairs? Let's find out:

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9. Elite Office X-Ergo Range

Best Full-Mesh Office Chair

When it comes to the Office X-Ergo Desk chair, you'll find that it's a bit of a love-it-or-hate-it scenario. As a full mesh chair, people tend to either appreciate the ventilation and breathability or aren't fans of the polarising effect of mesh. Regardless of material preference, the X-Ergo range is a brilliant desk chair option.

Best Bits of Elite Office X-Ergo Range

The X-Ergo Range offers a good range of adjustability options. The back height and tilt are adjustable, as well as the seat height and depth. You can also adjust the armrests to ensure optimal comfort. The full-mesh ergonomic chair is also equipped with a tension control that lets you customise your recline to find the perfect balance of comfort and support.

X-Ergo offers similar features to Desky's Pro+, including the ever-important synchro-tilt mechanism that's expected at its price point. This chair is fantastic for those working over eight hours daily, providing exceptional comfort due to its mesh construction and adjustability.

It includes lumbar adjustments, adjustable backrest height, and angle to avoid any possible strain on your back. You can experience a smooth recline via the synchro-tilt mechanism and can lock your positions at three different angles for good support. X-Ergo can handle user weight of up to 120 kg and includes a knob to adjust the weight tension accordingly.

You also get a robust construction that makes it ideal for both home and office use. The frame is constructed from heavy-duty steel, while the mesh back is durable and flexible. Elite Office's X-Ergo offers two types of castors: Soft-tyred for tiles and hard-tyred for carpets. The price tag adjusts accordingly as you get various adjustable options to make the chair yours.

The chair includes a removable and manually adjustable headrest on purchase. But with or without a headrest, X-Ergo distinctively features a coat rack behind the backrest to hold your suits when at work.

What Can Be Improved?

One major con of the X-Ergo mesh chair is the colour option. Whether it complements the rest of your office furniture or not, you can only get a black X-Ergo. And though it has a solid, sturdy, and modern build, the desk chair looks out of place in certain office settings.

Besides this, X-Ergo offers a 5-year warranty, which only tops the SIHOO M57's 3-year warranty and NOUHAUS Posture's 1-year warranty.

Overall Verdict

The X-Ergo Range is a great choice for a full-mesh ergonomic chair. Its breathable and supportive design makes it perfect for those who require an all-mesh chair with an adjustable backrest and lumbar support. Here's how it stacks up against other ergonomic chairs on the market:

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How I Evaluated: Chair Ranking Criteria

My evaluation of the best ergonomic office chairs in Australia focused on the 7 categories seen in the table ratings for each product. Here's what I considered under each category.

• Ergonomics refers to the adjustability of a chair and its flexibility. The best ergonomic office chairs include various adjustable parts to help you tailor the office chair to your unique preference.
• The best chairs also have excellent build quality. This describes the level of durability of the office chair. I considered the choice of material, parts, and controls in this regard.
• Aesthetics refers to the appearance of the chair. Is it the best-looking chair ever? Does it prioritise functionality over appearance? How many colour options are available to choose from? These questions influenced my score in this category.
• Most ergonomic chairs have a complicated setup process. The ease of assembly category ranks how easy or tedious it is to get your office chair ready to use from the package box.
• Price is subjective. So, instead of scoring solely on the quoted price for each chair, I considered their value and features in relation to the price. For example, most high-end office chairs include functionality that raises the price above the very regular office chairs. I discuss pricing for ergonomic office chairs in Australia below.
• An office chair's return policy outlines how long you can keep a chair after purchase before returning it for a refund. These policies also outline the conditions on which a return for a refund is viable.
• Most brands offer some sort of warranty. The best of them offer long-term warranties (think 10+ years) that cover the entire office chair. However, most only offer warranties that cover certain parts for short periods.

What to Look for in an Ergonomic Chair?

The difference between the more traditional and ergonomic office chairs is that the latter packs many adjustable features to boost your comfort.

This is important and the reason why experts recommend the use of ergonomic office chairs. At the bare minimum, an ergonomic chair should have an adjustable seat height, backrest, armrest, and lumbar support.

Higher-end ergonomic office chairs like the ErgoTune Supreme add extra adjustable features such as weight tension support, adjustable seat depth, tilting mechanisms, and lock features.

Consider all these when choosing an ergonomic chair. Regardless of any other feature that your desk chair comes with, having adjustable parts helps tailor the ergonomic chair to personal comfort levels.

What Is an Ergonomic Chair?

We explore what constitutes an ergonomic chair, its benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

ExpertEasyDarren Sherwood

Still Can't Decide?

There are nine ergonomic chairs on our list, and I've provided a brief buying guide above to help you choose which suits your needs after your initial shortlist. If you're still caught between two options, the mini-comparisons below should help you decide.

ErgoTune Supreme or Sihoo M57?

ErgoTune Supreme's 4.8 final score over the M57's 4.2 shows its level of quality over the latter. I reckon, however, that the choice between the two for you may boil down to the price.

If so, then choose the SIHOO M57 if you're looking for a budget home office chair that you can use for eight hours daily with little complaints. Otherwise, the ErgoTune Supreme is the obvious favourite. You get a longer warranty and a highly ergonomic chair for long-term use.

Desky Pro+ or ErgoTune Supreme?

Personal preference, but the Desky Pro+ is a more beautiful chair than the ErgoTune Supreme. And just like the Buro Tidal, it features a fabric seat and a mesh back, unlike the full mesh of the ErgoTune Supreme. I reckon this adds to why it's the more expensive option.

ErgoTune Supreme ranks ahead of the Desky Pro+ office chair mainly for its value for money. It's obvious to see now why I choose it as the best ergonomic chair in Australia. While moderately priced, ErgoTune has many top features and functionalities of a high-end office chair.

SIHOO M57 or Buro Tidal?

Buro Tidal is 100% Australian-made. If that means something to you, then it takes the spot over the SIHOO M57, which is manufactured in China. Besides this, here's how to decide between the two:

• Choose the SIHOO M57 if you want an affordable mesh chair that offers ergonomic functionality and lumbar support.
• Choose the Buro Tidal if want a sturdy office chair and are willing to spend a little more for quality.

Herman Miller Cosm or ErgoTune Supreme?

The decision between Herman Miller Cosm and ErgoTune Supreme boils down to their price points and target markets. Both office chairs are adequate and can help you get your job done without hassle or complaints.

What do I mean by target market? Cosm is a luxury office chair and a status symbol. It has a modern appeal that catches the eye almost immediately. And while both are mesh, the Cosm looks overly appealing and costs about 3 times the price of the ErgoTune Supreme.

If it falls within your budget, I'll recommend Cosm in a heartbeat for its aesthetics and advanced ergonomics. Otherwise, the ErgoTune Supreme is a great choice, sufficient for all your home office tasks.

Six Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an Office Chair

Buying a desk chair can be tricky, especially if you're new to exploring them for yourselves. Maybe you've just begun remote work and haven't considered what to look for when getting a desk chair. Here are common mistakes to avoid when searching for a good value desk chair.

#1 - Choosing Price Over Value

Many buyers choose price over value when purchasing anything online. Your search for the best office chair shouldn't be about comparing price points from various online stores but comparing the value each chair provides.

Finding a good value chair does not necessarily mean buying the most expensive desk chair. Set a reasonable yet realistic budget for the long term and choose the best value desk chair you can find within that budget.

#2 - Choosing the Wrong Fabric

Build materials matter a lot when buying desk chairs, as they largely contribute to the comfort the desk chair provides. For instance, some build materials best suit warmer climates and vice versa.

A mesh desk chair allows more airflow, so you can work comfortably in warmer environments without sweating. However, other materials, such as PU leather, can still be excellent build materials for desk chairs.

#3 - Being Overly Concerned With Padding

Don't let padding fool you. An office chair is not supposed to be like a sofa; extra foam padding is typically a sign of a poorly constructed, uncomfortable chair that will make you sweat and feel uncomfortable.

According to Cornell University, while a soft seat pad may feel comfortable at first, it becomes increasingly uncomfortable as your body sinks into it - for the following reasons:

• Decreased blood circulation.
• Increased body temperature.
• Increased compression under your thighs.

#4 - Choosing Looks Over Comfort

It is tempting to have the best-looking desk chair without considering how much comfort or value it can offer over more extended periods. The right desk chair should perfectly balance design, quality, and comfort. Of course, you don't want an ugly-looking desk chair that uninspires you to get work done.

#5 - Buying Without a Warranty

When getting a desk chair, look out for the warranty duration, if there is any. A warranty can be a full warranty or a limited warranty. A full warranty covers the entire product, whereas a limited warranty covers some parts and comes with terms and conditions.

The warranty duration also sometimes speaks to the quality of the product. A higher length or lifetime warranty speaks to the manufacturer's trust in build quality and vice versa.

#6 - Not Test-Sitting Before Buying

Even the most ergonomic office chairs will not feel comfortable for all people because sitting is such a personal experience. Avoid being forced to use an office chair that you detest by:

• Purchasing online directly from the manufacturer and ensuring the company provides a risk-free trial.
• Trying the chair out first if purchasing from a traditional retailer.

How Much Should I Spend on an Ergonomic Chair?

The price of an ergonomic chair depends on its functionality. You'll find more affordable options that simply provide a place to sit and higher-end options that ensure you're comfortable where you sit.

Budget Office Chairs

Most budget ergonomic chairs cost between $100 and $300. I recommend steering clear of these. Office chairs in this category lack essential ergonomic features, often settling for seat height adjustments alone.

The Desky Swivel 3D Tilt Drafting Chair is the only option that falls within this price range on my list, but that's because it is a drafting chair rather than a full-fledged ergonomic chair.

Next, there are entry-level ergonomic office chairs that cost between $300 and $500. They offer the bare minimum to keep you comfortable, but not for extended periods. Office chairs in this range can work for shoppers on a tight budget.

Moderately Priced Office Chairs

I recommend ergonomic chairs priced above the $500 entry level yet below $1,000 are the ideal options for work-from-home and office users who sit for prolonged hours. This category of office chairs comes with all other necessary features to ensure you’re comfortable. Examples above are the ErgoTune Supreme, Desky Pro+, and Buro Tidal.

Why should you avoid buying cheap office chairs? Because the technology that will keep you safe, comfortable, and productive ends up costing far less than reseller margins, transportation, and packaging.

On average, about 25–35% of the total cost of a consumer office chair is spent on the chair's actual hardware. To estimate the amount of money invested in the R&D and production of your office chair, simply multiply the price by 0.3 - a $300 chair will be unlikely to cost any more than $90 to design and manufacture, while spending $700 increases that figure to $210.

Luxury Office Chairs

Above the $1000 AUD mark, you’re looking at not only functionality but luxury. If you have the money to spend, you can consider these options as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about ergonomic chairs to help you make an informed decision.

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That's a Wrap!

A good chair is an excellent investment in your health and comfort. I am sure you will find this guide useful if you are looking for the best ergonomic chair in Australia. When in doubt, choose the ErgoTune Supreme; you can never go wrong with this ergonomic office chair.

While I highly recommend you also learn about standing desks, as they are a great way to keep yourself active and boost productivity, feel free to comment about which product reviews you'd like me to cover next.