7 Best Minimal Office Chairs for Modern Workspaces

If you spend a lot of time sitting—working from home, in an office, or somewhere in between—you know how important it is to have a comfortable and ergonomic chair that supports your back, neck, and posture. But besides functionality, you also want a chair that suits your style, space, and budget. And if you’re a fan of minimalism, you want a sleek and simple chair.

However, like any other office furniture, no one size fits all. In this guide, I've evaluated seven minimal office chairs in Australia that offer a variety of features, such as adjustable height, tilt, lumbar support, headrests, armrests, seat slides, and more. I’ve also considered factors such as price, warranty, durability, material, and design to help you find the best pick.

My Top Picks

If you're short on time or need to make a quick purchase, here are my top three picks to choose from:

Humanscale Diffrient World Chair

Best minimal computer chair for the home office with a frameless mesh seat, 136 kg weight capacity, good ergonomic comfort and support, and a lightweight design.

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Modway Edge Computer Chair

Best minimal computer chair for the heavy user with a padded waterfall leatherette seat, 150 kg weight capacity, and essential features and adjustments for optimal support.

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FYLICA Ergonomic Office Chair

Best budget-friendly minimal computer chair with virgin cotton breathable mesh cushion seat, 136 kg weight capacity, 360° rotation, and a three-point support system.

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Minimalism Explained

Minimalism is the practice of living with less and focusing on the essentials. It's a way of simplifying your life and reducing your attachment to material possessions. Minimalism can have many benefits for your well-being, your finances, your environment, and your productivity. Here are reasons why some people prefer a minimalistic lifestyle:

• Spend less and save more: By accumulating only the essentials, you reduce your expenses and increase your savings. You can also avoid debt and stress caused by overspending.
• Reduce stress and improve mental and physical health: A minimalist home is significantly less stressful than a cluttered one. You enjoy more space, light, and peace in your environment.
• More freedom and flexibility to pursue your passions: Minimalism helps you free up your time, money, and energy for the things that matter to you. You can pursue your hobbies, travel, learn new skills, or start a new project without being weighed down.
• Reduce your ecological footprint: The less you consume and buy, the less waste you produce and the fewer resources you use. So, by being minimalistic, you reduce your carbon footprint.
• Be more productive and focused on your goals: Minimalism helps eliminate distractions and clutter from your mind and workspace. You can concentrate better on your tasks and achieve your objectives more efficiently.

Top 7 Best Minimal Office Chairs for Modern Australian Workspaces

After weeks of research and evaluations, here is my honest assessment of Australia's seven best minimal office chairs. Whether you need a chair for your office or WFH setup, want something supportive of your spine, or need an office chair to complement your minimalistic workspace, you’ll find the one that suits your needs and preferences.

1. Humanscale Diffrient World Chair

Best Minimal Computer Chair for Home Office

The Humanscale Diffrient World Chair is a premium, innovative office chair for effortless ergonomic comfort and support. The chair is lightweight and uses minimal parts, making it simple and easy to use. Its all-mesh design keeps the chair cool and conforms to your body shape and movement.

The minimal office chair has a mechanism-free recline that uses your body weight to adjust the recline angle and resistance automatically. It features up to a 17-degree recline and an 8-degree backrest tilt. The chair also has a responsive backrest that eliminates the need for separate lumbar support and a form-sensing mesh that hugs your entire back. You get an adjustable seat depth and height and optional armrests attached to the backrest.

Humanscale's Diffrient Chair is made of high-quality mesh material that is durable, flexible, and breathable. The mesh is low-abrasion and non-stretch, making it easy to clean and maintain. I recommend its lightweight design and build quality, allowing long-term comfort and support.

Pros

• Sleek and modern design
• Effortless and intuitive ergonomic features
• Net positive certification for sustainability
• Breathable and comfortable mesh material
• Lightweight and durable construction

Cons

• Expensive price tag
• Can too slick or slippery

Humanscale Diffrient World: Final Verdict

The Humanscale Diffrient World Chair is ideal if you value aesthetics, support, and durability. Compared to other ergonomic chairs in the market, such as the Herman Miller Aeron or the Steelcase Leap, the Diffrient World Chair offers a more sleek and minimalist look, a more flexible and responsive recline, and a more eco-friendly construction.

On the downside, you get no adjustments for the backrest. Plus, there's no headrest. Between Aeron, Diffrient World, and Steelcase Leap, only the latter has a headrest option to choose from when purchasing. You may also have to look at other chair options if you prefer a chair with more customisation options, lower cost, or softer cushioning.

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2. GABRYLLY Office Mesh Chair

Best Minimal Computer Chair for Office

The GABRYLLY Office Mesh Chair is a high-quality mesh office chair that offers comfort, support, and adjustability to help you maintain a healthy posture and reduce back pain. The chair has a comfortable headrest, a solid backrest, and lumbar support that are all adjustable to fit your body shape and height. The headrest offers a 15 cm height adjustment that I found pretty handy as I could adjust it according to my preference.

The minimal office chair features flip-up arms that can be folded to save space and allow you to push closer to your desk. The arms are padded and height-adjustable for up to 4.5 cm. When adjusting the seat height itself, the chair offers a range of up to 13 cm. The computer chair also has a tilt function that lets you recline up to 120 degrees for relaxation or sit straight for work.

Gabrylly's ergonomic and minimalist chair is made of high-quality mesh material that is durable, flexible, and breathable. The mesh allows air circulation and prevents sweating and sticking. The chair also has soft PU wheels that are smooth and quiet and won’t damage your floor. The wheels offer a 360-degree swivel function for easy movement - great if you work across different workstations to wheel around from one to another.

Pros

• Adjustable and customisable
• Space-saving and stylish design
• Comfortable and supportive sitting for long hours
• Decent seat height adjustment range
• Easy to assemble and clean

Cons

• Relatively pricey
• Not enough seat cushioning
• Not for heavy users

GABRYLLY Office Mesh Chair: Final Verdict

I appreciate the design, quality, and comfort of the GABRYLLY Office Mesh Chair. Compared to similar chairs in the market, such as the Hbada Ergonomic Office Chair or the Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair, the Gabrylly chair offers more space, adjustability, and durability at a reasonable price.

So, if you want a chair that can help you improve your posture, reduce fatigue, and enhance your productivity, the Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair is one of my top recommendations.

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3. Modway Edge Computer Chair

Best Minimal Computer Chair for Heavy Person

The Modway Edge Computer Chair offers various features and adjustments for optimal support and flexibility. It has a simple and elegant look that will complement any home decor. The chair has a mesh back and a waterfall leatherette seat that conforms to your body shape and movement and provides breathability and comfort. It features a synchro tilt mechanism that locks at any position and a tension control knob to adjust the tilt resistance.

The chair's height can be adjusted up to 9 cm at the touch of a button, from 44.5 to 53 cm. I found it more handy than the traditional manual levers for chair height adjustments. The Modway Edge Computer Chair also has a white base that adds a touch of elegance and contrast to the red or black mesh. The base has a pneumatic lift that adjusts the seat's height and five dual-wheel casters that enable smooth and easy movement.

Modway's computer chair also allows you to flip your armrests. However, unlike the Gabrylly, which has a flip-up angle of 45 degrees, the Modway Edge Computer Chair has flip-up arms that can be lifted up to 90 degrees when not needed, giving you more space and freedom to move your elbows around. The arms are also padded with vinyl for extra comfort.

Pros

• Stylish and modern design
• Breathable and comfortable mesh material
• Adjustable and flexible features
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Not suitable for very short or tall users
• High price point

Modway Edge Computer Chair: Final Verdict

Unlike the Modway Articulate Mesh Office Chair and the Modway Jive Ribbed High Back Executive Office Chair, the Modway Edge Computer Chair offers a more sleek and minimalist look, a more flexible and responsive recline, and a more durable and easy-to-clean seat option.

However, it's not without drawbacks. Notable among them is the lack of a headrest and the potential heat buildup on the seat. If these are dealbreakers, consider the budget-friendly SIHOO M57 for a headrest and more breathability. However, if you have a heavy weight and want a simple and classy chair, the Modway Edge Computer Chair is the best choice for you.

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4. Herman Miller Sayl

Best Minimal Computer Chair for Back Support

Herman Miller Sayl is inspired by the design of suspension bridges. The chair is lightweight and has a unique unframed back that offers flexible and breathable support. Its harmonic tilt mechanism lets you lean back with ease, providing a natural recline for a comfortable, intuitive stretch. The tilt tension is also adaptable. So, you can adjust it to your weight or preference, making long hours of sitting more comfortable. Thanks to the chair's forward seat angle, you can have a healthy posture while leaning forward.

The Sayl Chair has an unframed back that uses stretched elastomer strands for greater tension in areas requiring support and lesser tension where flexibility is needed. It has a 3D intelligent back that moulds to your shape and posture, facilitating a personalised sitting experience. You can adjust its seat depth and height. But for enhanced comfort, I recommend choosing the height-adjustable armrest variant. An optional lumbar support is also available, providing adjustment over a 10 cm range.

Demonstrating a conscious approach to environmental well-being, which aligns with minimalism, Herman Miller Sayl is crafted with 90% recyclable materials and is completely free from PVCs. The chair has minimal use of parts and materials, making it easy to assemble and disassemble. On top of this, it has a 12-year warranty, holding certifications from various environmental standards, thus promising durability alongside its eco-friendliness.

Pros

• Sleek and modern design
• Flexible and breathable back support
• Eco-friendly and durable construction
• Available in various colour options
• Smooth and natural recline

Cons

• Expensive price tag
• Not suitable for very short users

Herman Miller Sayl Chair: Final Verdict

If you want a chair that is easy to use, elegant, and sustainable, the Herman Miller Sayl Chair is the best pick. But if you prefer a chair that offers more control and affordability, consider the ErgoTune Supreme V3.

However, compared to other office chairs in the market, such as the Steelcase Amia or the Modway Articulate Ergonomic Mesh, the Herman Miller Sayl Chair offers a more sleek and minimalist look, a more flexible and responsive recline, and a more eco-friendly construction.

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5. FYLICA Ergonomic Office Chair

Best Budget Minimal Computer Chair

The FYLICA Ergonomic Office Chair is functional and a minimal computer chair with wheels. The chair boasts a 360-degree free rotation with a convenient rotating knob, allowing you to manoeuver and access your workspace from various angles. It also uses a three-point support system that focuses on the back, hand, and hip areas to ensure proper posture during extended periods of sitting.

For added comfort, the FYLICA's minimal chair has extra-wide fixed armrests and a high-density thicker cushion. Its rocking backrest can be adjusted between 98 and 118 degrees, allowing you to find the perfect balance between comfort and productivity. You also get an adjustable seat height of up to 10 cm, a Shield Shape design for lumbar support, and a curved backrest that follows the natural curve of the spine, promoting a healthy sitting posture.

The FYLICA Ergonomic Office Chair is available in black and silver colours, providing options to suit different office aesthetics. Its minimalist design not only enhances the overall look of your workspace but also ensures affordability without compromising on quality.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Shield Shape design for lumbar support
• Rocking backrest between 98 and 118 degrees
• Available in Black and Silver Colour
• Comfy minimalist design

Cons

• Unclear assembly instructions
• Too shallow for tall people
• Fixed armrests

FYLICA YC03 Office Chair: Final Verdict

The FYLICA YC03 Office Chair is suitable if you want an affordable, comfortable, and minimalist office chair that promotes good posture and supports extended periods of computer work. The three support points (back, hand, and hip), adjustable seat height, and lumbar support make it an ideal choice to maintain a healthy sitting posture.

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6. LEMBERI Mid Back Computer Chair

Best Minimal Computer Chair Without Wheels

The LEMBERI Mid Back Ergonomic Computer Chair is a simple and comfortable office chair. Its wheel-less and armrest-free design makes it fitting for workspaces that don't require frequent movement or prolonged sitting. The minimalistic chair has a curved backrest and seat that fit the curve of the human spine. Its U-shaped design relieves back and hip pressure, promising a comfortable seating experience. What’s more, the chair is complemented by the 120-degree rocking function to switch between relaxation and focused work times.

With the LEMBERI Mid Back Ergonomic Computer Chair, you get the comfort of a thick seat cushion padded with high elastic foam and wrapped in twill fabric upholstery. The seat design promotes blood circulation and reduces fatigue with a rebound rate of 42-53%. For durability, the chair has a cross-shaped base that is made of metal. The base is stable and has four non-slip rubber foot pads that prevent scratching and slipping.

Pros

• Simple and modern design
• Comfortable and supportive features
• Thick and easy-to-clean seat cushion
• Stable and sturdy base

Cons

• Relatively pricey
• Limited colour options

LEMBERI AMS-OF Computer Chair: Final Verdict

LEMBERI's Mid Back Computer Chair has a simple and modern design that can match any decor style. However, I do not recommend it if you want more customisable features, colour options, or mobility.

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7. Boeing Bariatric PU Chair

Best Minimal Computer Chair for Big and Tall

The Boeing Bariatric PU Chair is the go-to option if you want a minimal yet sturdy computer chair for big and tall users. Packed with essential features and built for durability, the minimal computer chair is a reliable choice for those looking to combine comfort and functionality.

The chair provides a stable foundation with a 350 mm radius steel base and a user weight capacity of 200 kg to hold heavy weights sturdily. Its 35-50 high-density new foam ensures a comfortable sitting experience while providing the necessary support for extended periods of use. You also get reclining armrests, which add an extra layer of comfort. When fully adjusted, the office chair reaches a maximum height of 122 cm, providing ample support for tall users.

Boeing's chair features a quality black PU material, adding a touch of sophistication while ensuring easy maintenance. Its weight capacity and adjustable seat height range of 52 – 62 cm ensure that it caters to individual preferences for a personalised sitting experience. The chair's BIFMA approval attests to its compliance with industry standards for safety and performance.

Pros

• Sturdy and reliable design
• Reclining armrests enhance comfort
• Comfortable sitting experience
• BIFMA-approved for safety and performance
• Quality black PU material

Cons

• Expensive chair
• Only one colour option
• No lumbar support

Boeing Bariatric PU Chair: Final Verdict

I recommend the Boeing Bariatric PU Chair if you want a minimalistic computer chair tailored for big and tall users. It also caters to those who prioritise durability, good comfort, and a sleek design.

So, whether you're a professional spending long hours at the desk or an above-average weight and height user who needs a heavy-duty chair, the Boeing Bariatric Chair offers a good blend of form and function.

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Are Minimal Computer Chairs Suitable for People With Back Pain or Posture Issues?

Minimal computer chairs can be suitable for people with back pain or posture issues, depending on the design and features of the chair. Some minimal computer chairs have ergonomic features such as lumbar support, adjustable backrest, seat height, and tilt, as well as breathable mesh material that can help you maintain a healthy posture and reduce back pain.

I recommend choosing a minimal computer chair that fits your body shape, height, weight, and preference. Some of the benefits of minimal computer chairs for back pain or posture issues are:

• They help avoid slouching and straining your backbone by providing flexible and breathable support for your spine and neck.
• By allowing you to recline smoothly and naturally, minimal office chairs help you adjust your sitting posture and reduce work fatigue.
• Minimal computer chairs also help prevent lower back pain and poor posture by ensuring a correct sitting posture.

Some of the drawbacks of minimal computer chairs for back pain or posture issues include the following.

• They often aren't suitable for very short or tall users, as they do not have enough adjustability or customisation to fit different users.
• They have light cushioning or lumbar support and can feel too firm or slick for some users.
• They often aren't durable or stable enough for long-term use.

Try out different minimal computer chairs before buying; I recommend those with ergonomic features, high-quality build, and good warranties.

Are Minimal Computer Chairs Comfortable for Long Hours of Sitting?

The comfort of minimal computer chairs over extended periods of sitting varies considerably based on a range of factors, including the design of the chair, the materials used, and the individual’s body type.

Typically, minimal computer chairs often prioritise sleek design and simplicity over plush padding and extensive ergonomic features in more substantial office chairs. However, they offer sufficient lumbar support, a balanced seat pan, and appropriate backrests to promote a healthy posture. The added features like adjustable height and tilt mechanisms further enhance comfort by allowing you to tailor the chair’s configuration to their needs.

Build materials are also pivotal in office chair comfort. Chairs outfitted with breathable fabrics or mesh backrests offer a comfortable sitting experience by promoting air circulation and reducing heat buildup, thus providing comfort for a longer duration. I advise you to take regular breaks to stand and stretch during long sitting periods, regardless of the chair type. This often helps promote blood circulation and reduces discomfort.

Finally, personal factors like height, weight, and preferred sitting position significantly influence comfort level over long sitting sessions. You may find minimal chairs to provide a sufficiently comfortable and supportive seating solution for your work needs, while others may prefer office chairs with substantial cushioning and support features.

Can a Minimal Office Chair Help to Reduce Fatigue and Increase Productivity?

Yes, a well-designed minimal office chair can certainly aid in reducing fatigue and enhancing productivity. Here's how.

1. Minimal office chairs support the natural curves of the spine and encourage proper posture, which helps prevent the onset of fatigue, promotes efficient muscle use, and reduces strain on the spine and other joints.
2. Features such as lumbar support are instrumental in mitigating lower back pain, which is a common issue arising from prolonged sitting.
3. A minimalistic design often fosters a clutter-free and streamlined workspace, which can indirectly boost productivity by creating a more focused and less distracted work environment.
4. Minimal office chairs with breathable materials prevent heat build-up, offering a more comfortable seating solution, especially during the Australian summer. This improves your comfort level and helps reduce fatigue.

However, it is crucial to pair the right chair with other ergonomic office furniture and accessories, such as height-adjustable desks and proper lighting, to create a holistic environment that truly fosters productivity and reduces fatigue.

Are There Minimal Office Chairs With Technology Features?

There are few minimal office chairs with integrated technology features, such as built-in wireless charging or USB ports—these aren't the focus for minimalistic computer chairs. However, some office chairs offer these features.

An example is the X-Chair X4 Leather Chair, which has a built-in heat and massage function on the backrest. You can activate the heat and massage function when using the leather chair. It also has a dynamic variable lumbar support, a 4D armrest, and an adjustable headrest.

Can You Customise or Personalise a Minimal Office Chair?

A minimal office chair can be customised or personalised to align with specific preferences or design aesthetics. While they have a set design, you can personalise them through chair and armrest covers, which are available in a multitude of colours and patterns. You can also add a range of ergonomic accessories to enhance the comfort and uplift the chair's visual appeal. This includes memory foam seat cushions, lumbar supports, or even headrests.

Aside from upholstery and cushions, another avenue for personalisation is the casters or wheels. This is particularly important. Besides matching your design aesthetic, the right castors must suit the flooring type of your space, be it hardwood, carpet, or tiles, to ensure smooth and quiet operation. If you're more DIY-inclined, painting the base or frame of the chair to complement your interior style can bring a fresh and unique touch to the chair.

For customisation in functionality, choose a minimal computer chair that has adjustable arms, seat depth, and tilt mechanisms to tailor the chair to your ergonomic preferences, enhancing comfort and potentially boosting productivity during long working hours.

Can a Minimal Office Chair Be Disassembled for Easy Transportation or Storage?

A minimal office chair can be disassembled for easy transportation or storage, depending on the brand and model of the chair. Some are easy to disassemble and reassemble, requiring only a few tools and steps. However, others aren't designed to be disassembled or may require professional support to take them apart. The steps to disassemble an office chair are:

1. Take off the headrest: Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to unscrew the bolts holding the headrest. Sometimes, you might need to remove a cover or tabs to get to the bolts.
2. Remove the backrest: Unscrew the bolts connecting your backrest to the seat or base. You might have to turn the chair over to reach the bolts. A screwdriver or Allen wrench will do the job.
3. Get rid of the armrests: For armrests, unscrew the bolts attaching them to the seat or backrest. You might have to take off some stoppers or caps to access the screws.
4. Take out the base: If your chair has a base with a gas cylinder, use a pipe wrench and rubber mallet. I recommend wrapping duct tape around the pipe wrench's teeth to protect the cylinder. Then, flip the chair over on a table, loosen the cylinder with the pipe wrench, and tap the base with the rubber mallet until the cylinder falls out. Be careful not to let it hit your feet.
5. Remove the casters: Pull or twist the casters out from the chair's base. You might need to apply some force.

Are Minimal Office Chairs Suitable for Use in Unconventional Workspaces or Outdoor Environments?

Some minimal office chairs are lightweight, portable, and durable, making them ideal for use in different settings and scenarios. Some factors to consider when choosing a minimal office chair for use in unconventional workspaces or outdoor environments are as follows.

#1 - Comfort

Choose a minimal office chair with a comfortable seat and backrest, preferably with cushioning, padding, or mesh material. To suit your preference and posture, consider a chair with some adjustability, such as seat height, backrest angle, or tilt mechanism. A comfortable chair can help you avoid fatigue and discomfort when working in different environments.

#2 - Support

Invest in a chair with a supportive backrest and lumbar support, preferably with some curvature or contouring to fit your spine and neck. Likewise, consider armrests or headrests, preferably with some adjustability, to support your arms and head. A supportive chair maintains a healthy posture and reduces strain on your back, neck, and shoulders.

#3 - Stability

You should also look for an office chair with a stable base and casters, preferably with some locking or braking mechanism to prevent unwanted movement. I advise choosing one with a sturdy frame and durable material, preferably with some resistance to wear and tear, moisture, and UV rays. A stable chair helps you work safely and securely, regardless of the environment.

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The Final Say

Minimal office chairs are a great choice for anyone looking for a simple, sleek, and ergonomic chair for their home or office. They offer various benefits, such as saving space, enhancing productivity, and improving posture. However, they may come with a few drawbacks, such as limited customisation options, lack of tech-intensive features, or sturdiness.

It is important to choose one that suits your needs, preferences, and budget. In this article, I reviewed some of the best minimal office chairs, highlighting their features, pros, and cons. I hope it has helped you find the perfect, minimal office chair for your needs. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy shopping!