9 Best Ergonomic Office Chairs in Australia (2024)

There are many ergonomic office chairs in Australia, and picking the right one for your needs can be tough. I had the same challenge when I needed a good office chair for my home office during the peak eras of remote work. So, I decided to learn everything I could about office chairs – how they're built, their design, how they work, and how they make you comfortable.

Armed with this knowledge, I've taken a close look at the many ergonomic chairs available in Australia. What you're about to read is the conclusion of my research; a list of the nine best office chairs that, in my honest opinion, are worth the price. This will 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 V3

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

See Best Price

SIHOO M57

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

See Best Price

Herman Miller Cosm

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

See Best Price

Top 9 Ergonomic Office Chairs for Australians — In-Depth Review and Comparisons

My review of the top ergonomic office chairs in Australia considered several key factors: comfort, adjustability, build quality, ease of assembly, style and aesthetics, price, and warranty. The goal is to provide a comprehensive review to help you make an informed choice that suits your needs.

1. ErgoTune Supreme V3

Best Overall Office Chair in Australia

The ErgoTune Supreme V3 is one of the best desk chairs available to Australians. Throughout my reviews, it beats the average benchmark in various categories, such as ergonomics, comfort, aesthetics, build quality, and ease of assembly. This office chair fits a variety of use cases; home workstations, office use, gaming, etc.

Best Bits of the ErgoTune Supreme V3

First, the desk chair is a perfect fit for almost all body sizes due to its various size options. ErgoTune offers small (140 - 160 cm), medium (160 - 180 cm), and tall (180 - 210 cm) chair options, which is essential to avoid strain and aches associated with incorrect chair sizes. Additionally, it includes the Class IV hydraulic gas lift system to offer additional height customisations.

ErgoTune Supreme V3 is highly adjustable, beating the SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Desk Chair 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. Its fully adjustable head and neck support is excellent for users who suffer 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 great comfort and support. Impressively, it offers 3D headrest adjustments (vertical, horizontal, and angular) to perfectly fit your neck 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 is designed to ergonomically support your posture and reduce fatigue while you're sitting in the chair. It comes with advanced ATLAS lumbar support that adaptively fits your C-shaped spine. You can also adjust the tension of this Lumbar support to your comfort level. Learn more about the importance of lumbar support in an ergonomic office chair.

The ErgoTune Supreme V3 is built with mesh, like most other options on my list. It features the DuraWeave hybrid mesh fabric, which I found very comfortable during my use. The upholstery of the ErgoTune chair is a blend of fabric and polyester (2:1), combining the goodness of fabric strength and mesh breathability.

Comfort is relative, but compared to office chairs priced in the same range or below, the ErgoTune Supreme V3 is a mile ahead. And if you're looking for an ergonomic desk chair that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, this chair becomes a serious contender.

To my surprise, the ErgoTune Supreme V3 has the synchro-tilt mechanism available in high-end ergonomic desk chairs. This advanced mechanism allows the seat angle to tilt for 5 degrees when the backrest reclines for 10 degrees, helping you rock back and forth or recline seamlessly. It also helps develop a sense of stability so you don’t feel like losing balance while leaning back for rest.

This is complemented greatly by the TrueTilt Precision Recline Controls on the ErgoTune Supreme V3, which allows you to adjust both the recline angle and recline tension. Just unlock the tilt lock, recline back smoothly to 136 degrees, and relax your body muscles. Learn more about the various types of tilt mechanisms available to ergonomic chairs.

I found the ErgoTune Supreme V3 easy to assemble. It comes with a detailed instruction guide with six simple and straightforward steps. There's also a video option for visual learners, which is only about two minutes long—I've included it above.

One of the best things I found about the ErgoTune Supreme V3 was the company's risk-free return policy. You get 21 days to return the product starting from the date of purchase if it doesn't meet their expectations. Likewise, the manufacturer offers a default eight-year warranty and an extension of 4 years, which is now free, and another 4-year default warranty with a 4-year extension, also now free.

I break it down in the table below to see which parts of the ErgoTune Supreme V3 the warranty covers:

The length of the warranty is only rivalled by Herman Miller's Cosm Mid-Back’s 12-year warranty.  

Areas for Improvement

While the benefits of ErgoTune Supreme V3 are many, there are a few negatives. First, the ErgoTune Supreme V3 arm pads are not quite as soft as they could be, making them slightly less comfortable if used for a long time without changing positions.

While the choice of armrest material is understandable as this is not a foam or padded chair, I would have loved to have soft arm pads even if available as a premium option. The armrests also do not adjust very low, so petite people might find them to be a bit too high.

Another low point is that the mesh material on ErgoTune Premium V3 gets stained easily. To cover against this con to some degree, you may decide to go with the charcoal black colour option, as 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 V3 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 is 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 desk chair performed compared to the other products on this list

ErgoTune Supreme V3 offers excellent value for Australians who are not great fans of lower-end desk chairs but are unwilling to pay a huge amount for one. I am so impressed by this chair that I wrote a detailed and dedicated ErgoTune Supreme review.

Check Price

2. SIHOO M57

Best Budget Office Chair for Australians

The SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Desk Chair stands out as the best budget office chair option for Australians, offering an ideal alternative to the ErgoTune Supreme V3 and Herman Miller chairs. The award-winning furniture company produces some of the finest desk chairs globally and in Australia because of their ergonomics and competitive pricing.

Pros of the SIHOO M57

The SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Desk Chair is both 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.

This lightweight office chair is easy to move around, allowing you to switch between different workstations without hassle. 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 to provide a 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 SIHOO M57 desk chair offers a variety of other adjustable features, such as the 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 V3 features a lockable backrest, the SIHOO M57 outshines it with 3 lock tilt positions at 110, 120, and 130 degrees.

SIHOO M57 comes with a 360-degree swivel and the ability to adjust the seat height to your preference. 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.

M57 also features an Aluminum alloy base like ErgoTune Supreme V3. Its sturdy construction and durable materials ensure longevity, even in demanding conditions or use cases. This chair is perfect for those who need an ergonomic chair that is affordable and yet provides excellent support for long hours at the office.

The assembly of the chair is reasonably straightforward. The chair comes in nine different parts (headrest, backrest, seat, seat tilt adjuster or tension control, armrests, gas lift cylinder, casters or wheels, base, and a toolset of spare screws and washers) in a package and takes between 10 and 20 minutes to complete the setup. Here's a three-step approach to assembling the Sihoo M57 ergonomic chair:

• Step 1: Attach the five wheels and with the base standing, insert the gas lift cylinder.
• 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 SIHOO M57 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’re looking for a more satisfying rocking motion, consider buying the Desky Pro+ or ErgoTune Supreme V3.

SIHOO's M57 also comes with a three-year warranty for full parts at zero cost to you. While this is a shorter duration than the 12-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 V3 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 V3, Buro Tidal, or the Herman Miller Cosm, getting rid of lumbar pain is rare at this price point.

Likewise, the ergonomic desk 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:

Check Price

3. Buro Tidal Mesh Back Chair

Best Australian-Made Office Chair

The Buro Tidal ergonomic chair is 100% made in Australia, adhering to all manufacturing and quality standards, and is endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association. This chair has a modern design, is constructed from top-of-the-line materials, and provides superior comfort, support, and durability.

Best Bits of the Buro Tidal Chair

Like all other ergonomic chairs, Buro Tidal offers numerous adjustment points for optimal sitting posture and comfort. You can adjust the armrest, seat height and depth, lumbar support, backrest, and tilt tension. The built-in lumbar support and height-adjustable backrest are incredibly flexible. You can even adjust the ratchet height.

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 features independent settings that allow you to adjust the back tilt and seat tilt—almost like an asynchronous tilting mechanism.

Buro Tidal comes with a breathable mesh backrest to help keep you comfortable while working. It is one of the very few office chairs that pair a mesh back with a cushioned seat. The high-density moulded foam seat supports an optimal seating position while the mesh back keeps you cool in hot weather. Plus, the contoured seat cushion is upholstered in soft living fabric and includes a waterfall edge that helps promote healthy circulation.

The gas lift mechanism on the office chair lets you adjust the seat height and slide the seat to adjust its depth. Buro Tidal has a user weight capacity of 150 kg. Upon purchase, you can 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?

The 2D armrests and absence of headrests are the major downsides to the Buro Tidal ergonomic office chair. Unlike the 4D and 5D armrests of SIHOO57 and ErgoTune Supreme V3, Buro Tidal only offers the liberty to adjust the height and width of your armrests. Similarly, if you're keen on having a headrest, you should consider other options like the ErgoTune or SIHOO M57.

Buro Tidal features a nylon base that makes it a little less sturdy than Aluminum base chairs found in other similarly priced models in this list. Still, it is comfortable to use and provides good support for long work hours. Lastly, the office chair lacks a synchro-tilt mechanism that you’ll find in some of the other ergonomic office chairs in the same price range.

Overall Verdict

The Buro Tidal ergonomic chair is a very good office chair that doesn't try to be anything out of the ordinary; it simply gets the job done! For proud Aussies like me, the fact that this chair is locally manufactured in Australia is a significant plus. The company offers a 10-year guarantee on the office chair starting from your date of purchase. Here's how it ranked compared to the other desk chairs on this list:

Check Price

4. NOUHAUS Posture Ergonomic Chair

Best Executive Office Chair

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

Best Bits of the NOUHAUS Posture Chair

The NOUHAUS Posture offers exceptional comfort and support thanks to its unique and highly adjustable design. It features 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 on the office chair allows you 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. The PU Leather fabric adds durability and makes it less prone to stains.

NOUHAUS also offers a distinctive feature that is rare to find in other top ergonomic office chairs – the Click 5 lumbar support. The feature allows you to choose between 5 levels of lumbar support positions to find the one best suited to your body shape.

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 sitting. The chair also provides you with a 21.8-inch hip space between each armrest so you don’t feel tucked between them.

The NOUHAUS Posture Ergonomic Office Chair was sturdy and durable. The heavy-duty nylon wheelbase desk chair comes with a full 5-year manufacturing warranty. On purchase, it has three colour variants to choose from.

NOUHAUS Posture is also easy to assemble, clean, and move around. It is a good budget executive ergonomic desk chair.

Room for Improvement

One downside of the Nouhaus chair is the silver finish on some parts of the executive chair. NOUHAUS should replace it with a finish that is not easily scratched.

I also found reviews suggesting that the seat height is not suitable for people shorter than 5'8". So, I recommend it for people taller than this height. To be sure your office chair meets your ideal height demands, use our chair and height calculator to find the best range to choose from.

Overall Verdict

The NOUHAUS Posture office chair features simple construction yet is very comfortable. It is a great choice for anyone who fancies 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:

Check Price

5. Desky Sit Stand Pro-Active Stool

Best Desk Stool for Home or Office

If you’re on the lookout for an ergonomic desk stool suitable for your standing desk, the Desky Sit Stand Pro-Active Stool is an excellent choice. The stool is designed to deliver maximum comfort to work for longer periods without any discomfort.

Pros of the Desky Sit Stand Stool

Desky Sit Stand Pro-Active Stool is a luxurious desk stool with an array of features at a reasonable price point. Its sleek design, build quality, and materials make it one of the best desk stools in Australia. It offers adjustable height with a pneumatic lift system to select a seating position within a range of 56 and 73 cm. You can simply press a button at the base to adjust the height accordingly.

The stool features a slightly weighted anti-slip base that supports your weight and keeps the desk stool flat on the ground (even when leaning forward, sideway, and backward). This anti-slip base prevents the base of the stool from slipping and moving from its position easily. With its sleek design and attractive colour options, the Desky Sit Stand Pro-Active Stool is a stylish addition to any office space.

If you work with a standing desk for long hours, consider using a back-supportive task chair or stool like the Desky Pro-Active standing stool. It offers extended lower back support and convenience, boosting your productivity. Desky's Pro-Active stool is an upgrade of the Desky Active Stool that features a flat seat without any form of back support. I found the desk stool easy to set up, maintain, and adjust during the course of my evaluation.

The Desky Pro-Active stool also promotes good standing posture when used with standing desks. It helps relieve pressure on your feet during long periods of standing, preventing foot soreness. This enables you to stand longer and work more efficiently. Not, however, that sitting for too long could pose serious health concerns. I used to switch between my mesh office chair and this stool to reduce the health complications from either extreme.

What Could Be Better?

The nylon plastic base provides smooth height adjustability but isn’t as sturdy as aluminium base ergonomic chairs. The Desky Pro-Active Stool also lacks a footrest, which is common with most task chairs. Plus, it could do with a little higher backrest.

Overall Verdict

Desky's Sit Stand Pro-Active Stool is an excellent option for anyone looking for a sturdy desk stool that balances sitting and standing and offers basic ergonomic features. You get a 10-year limited warranty and a durable fabric that will last you a long time. For more options, read our in-depth review of the best stools and task chairs available in Australia.

I compared the sit-stand stool with the other ergonomic chairs on this list. Since the Desky Sit Stand is a stool and not a complete ergonomic chair, I only rated its ergonomics for height and tilt adjustability. Here are the results:

Check Price

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 and are looking for a fabric seat with the ventilation of a mesh back. 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+ Ergonomic chair 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 V3.

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 mechanism 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. It also enables you to stretch your upper torso without excessive pressure on your thighs.

Desky Pro+ 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 the back 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 support your sitting position and ensure that you lock yourself into the correct posture as you work. The armrests swivel and are height-adjustable, and the adjustable headrest provides optimal support to your head and neck when you recline.

For aesthetics and design, the Desky Pro+ Chair is available in black and white finishes. I also appreciate its minimalistic design, with only a few levers available in sight, and the control notches cleverly placed to give a sleek and modern look. Likewise, the aluminum alloy at the base, like the ErgoTune Supreme V3, provides a solid and sturdy base for 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.

Desky Pro+ also offers a 1-week refund policy, and if you don’t like it, you can just send it back in its original condition to get a full refund. I recommend familiarising yourself with Desky's return policies before purchasing.

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 V3.

I also find that for people over 190 cm in height, the Pro+, much like most desk 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 desk chair for many reasons. 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.

Check Price

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

Ultimate Active Office Experience With Dual-Function

The ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Ergonomic Office 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 boasts a 2-in-1 seat design featuring a conventional foam-padded upholstered seat on one side and an active fit-ball surface on the other. I found that the conventional seat offers comfort and support for extended sitting sessions, while the active surface promotes core activation, improved posture, and increased blood flow.

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

The optional armrests provide extra support when standing up, easing pressure on the knees, and can be easily added or removed based on your preferences.

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 are capable of supporting 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 design and ergonomic features, the ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Ergonomic Office Chair is slightly overpriced. Besides this, there is also a learning curve associated with using the active surface effectively. However, with consistent use and practice, it becomes more comfortable and beneficial.

Lastly, the chair comes with limited colour and fabric options. While this may not suit everyone's aesthetic preferences, it's essential to remember that the office chair's primary purpose is to provide ergonomic support, promote well-being, and boost your productivity.

Overall Verdict

I recommend the ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 Active Ergonomic Office Chair for anyone who wants to experience both comfort and productivity while maintaining their health and well-being.

Despite being slightly pricier than some alternatives, 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 5.0:

Check Price

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. Its stylish design and stunning curves 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 to provide you with ultimate comfort and support. It comes in three sizes; low-back, mid-back, and high-back, allowing you to choose the one that best complements your height. The backrest also offers well-disposed lumbar support for good comfort. Still, you can add extra cushioning if you need extra comfort.

Herman Miller Cosm's frame and auto-harmonic tilt instantly respond to the movements of users and provide weightless support with automatic adjustments, which means there is no need to make any adjustments manually. Unlike other ergonomic desk chairs controlled by knobs, Herman Miller's button controls and automated adjustments make using the desk chair extremely comfortable.

As a fan of mesh chairs, I appreciate the use of breathable mesh material at the back and seat. The all-mesh design keeps you well-ventilated, which in turn boosts your productivity. Combined with the lumbar support, Herman Miller Cosm's curved design of the backrest also provides dynamic spinal support and enhances good sitting posture.

Herman Miller offers four armrest options on purchase. You get to choose between no armrests, a fixed armrest, an adjustable armrest, and a leaf armrest. The leaf armrest can be particularly frustrating to use as it has indirect control over your elbow position. I recommend choosing its adjustable armrest option for ease of use; they allow you to adjust the height and angle to best suit your needs.

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 I evaluated.

Herman Miller offers a 2-week refund policy for its customers. 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, you may 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, superior adjustability, and luxurious 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, allowing you to recline comfortably and naturally as you use the desk chair.

While it is very expensive, you are buying a desk 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:

Check Price

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 an impressive range of adjustability options, allowing you to find the ideal position for your body type. 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 desk 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. It can handle user weight of up to 120 kg and includes a knob to adjust the weight tension accordingly.

With X-Ergo, you 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. 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 also includes a removable, manually adjustable headrest to ensure good comfort during long hours of sitting. You can decide whether to have a headrest at the time of 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 downside 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 may look 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.

Overall Verdict

The X-Ergo Range is a great choice for those seeking an ergonomic office chair with a full-mesh back. 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:

Check Price

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 desk 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 and Sihoo M57 add extra adjustable features such as weight tension support, adjustable seat depth, tilting mechanisms, and lock features to ensure you get the best out of your chair.

Consider all these adjustable features when looking to purchase 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. Learn more about choosing an ergonomic chair.

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 6 hours daily with little complaints. Otherwise, the ErgoTune Supreme V3 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 a more expensive option than the ErgoTune office chair.

Between the two, the ErgoTune Supreme V3 ranks ahead of the Desky 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 by one of the leading ergonomic chair manufacturers in China. Besides this, here's how to decide between the two.

• Choose the Sihoo M57 if you want a complete mesh chair that offers more ergonomic functionality and lumbar support at an affordable price point.
• Choose the Buro Tidal if you're looking for an exceptionally sturdy office chair that is not fully meshed, can work without a headrest, and is 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. Otherwise, the ErgoTune Supreme is a great choice, sufficient enough for all your home office tasks.

Six Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an Office Chair

Buying a desk chair or stool 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 or stool. 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 or stool. 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 or stool 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 point of an ergonomic chair primarily 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 many essential ergonomic features, typically settling for seat height adjustments alone. The Desky Sit Stand Pro is the only option that falls within this price range on my list, but that's because it is a stool rather than an 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+ Ergonomic Chair, and Buro Tidal Mesh Back Chair.

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.

How long should you stand at a standing desk?

There are many advantages to alternate standing and sitting at a desk. But you can have too much of a fine thing. Standing desks have become increasingly popular in home offices and workplaces, changing the working experience for thousands of people. Although using a standing desk seems to have obvi…

ExpertEasyDarren Sherwood

17 Best Office Chairs In Australia [2023 Reviewed]

Upgrade your workspace with the best office chairs. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a more productive workday.

ExpertEasyDarren Sherwood

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 V3; you can never go wrong with the 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.