A good ergonomic office chair is an investment. It’s something you use every day for prolonged hours, which can significantly impact your health and productivity. Choosing an office chair is, therefore, an essential decision to make.
But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start when choosing an office chair. What features are important? And which are ideal for your particular use case? We consider all of this in the 10 factors below to help you find the perfect chair.
1. Chair height
When choosing an office chair, you must consider the height of the chair to be sure you're comfortable when seated. Some office chairs are height-adjustable, while others aren't. Always choose the latter for flexibility. Height-adjustable office chairs feature a pneumatic adjustment lever that allows you to raise or lower the seat.
For optimal comfort, the height of your office chair should be adjustable to your height. You should be able to sit with your thighs parallel to the floor, your feet flat on the ground, and your knees at a 90-degree angle for maximum comfort. Use our desk height calculator to find the ideal range for a specific height.
2. Chair seating
Your office chair's seat should be adjustable and wide enough to support your thighs while not putting pressure on your hips. It should be deep enough that you can sit back in the chair with some space between your back and the back of the chair. Additionally, the material should be breathable so that you do not overheat while sitting in it.
Softer seats are not preferable. Soft seat cushions can cause back pain and make sitting for long periods of time uncomfortable. On the other hand, if it is extremely firm, you are prone to get soreness in your backside. We recommend a balance between the two. Mesh chairs, for example, have taught seats, whereas fabric chairs feel increasingly firmer.
For seat adjustability, choose ergonomic chairs with adjustable seat height and depth to be able to find a comfortable position for yourself.
Deeper seats are better for tall people. Sitting with your back against the backrest and your knees 2-4 inches from the office chair seat is ideal. The seat should also tilt forward or backward, depending on your position.
3. Lumbar support
Lumbar support is crucial to your sitting posture. Office chairs with lumbar support protect your lower back and support your spinal cord. So that you don't slouch all day, your lower back should always be supported to keep it slightly arched. Some ergonomic chairs also include lumbar support that is adjustable to your preference.
It's best to try out this feature so that you can get support for your lower back when you need it. If you're shopping online, choose office chairs with adjustable lumbar supports. Well-fitted lumbar supports minimise strain or compression on your spine's lumbar discs.
Darren Sherwood
4. Adjustable backrests
You should be able to adjust the backrest forwards and backward if it is attached to the seat. It is preferable to have a locking mechanism that keeps it in place so that the back does not suddenly tilt backward. A backrest is distinct from the seat and should be height adjustable and angle adjusted to your liking.
Office chairs with adjustable backrests can be very useful. They improve the level of comfort, relieve back and shoulder pains, and promote good sitting posture. Additionally, they allow you to adjust the office chair to suit various use cases.
5. Chair armrests
The armrests should be adjustable so that you can find a comfortable position for your arms while typing or using a mouse. Like the office chair seat, armrests can be adjustable in many parts. Higher-end office chairs have armrests that are 4D adjustable; height, width, depth, and pivot. If the chair you choose has fixed armrests, try it out before you purchase.
The armrests of your office chair should also be soft so that they don’t put pressure on your wrists or elbows. This is especially important if you intend to use your office chair for prolonged periods.
Finding a height and width adjustable office chair is a smart compromise; they are the most critical. The goal is to have enough adjustment to keep your shoulders and neck relaxed and to prevent slouching.
6. Chair headrest
The headrest of an ideal office chair should be adjustable so that you can find a comfortable position for your head and neck. Most headrests are heigh-adjustable. It should also be soft so as to not put pressure on your head or neck.
When seated in a relaxed or reclined position, headrests are most useful. You may not need one, depending on your application. For example, if you use your office chair in a home library, you are more likely to rely on the headrest than in a traditional office situation.
7. Aesthetics
While the features of the ergonomic office chair you select are crucial, so are the looks. Choose office chairs that complement your home office setup and assist you in setting a tone in the area, which in turn influences your emotions. Does your perfect office chair contribute to or detract from the office aesthetic you seek?
Choosing aesthetically beautiful office chairs can also boost your expenditure, especially if functionality is taken into account. You may find office chairs that complement your home office but lack key ergonomic qualities. Avoid them at all costs. Spending a lot of money on an office chair may seem excessive until you realise how it improves and transforms the look and feel of your entire home office.
8. Other ergonomic features
Ergonomic chairs are preferable to traditional chairs; the former include numerous adjustable features that help you customise the chair to your ideal comfort levels.
Depending on the price point, some chairs include more ergonomic features than others. These added features aren't necessarily essential, but they can help you stay comfortable for extended periods. They include but are not limited to:
- A tilt lock function that allows you to rock back and forth in your office chair and be able to have the chair hold that position.
- A Forward tilt function that allows the chair to prop forward. Thus, improving your comfort during work hours.
- Casters that allow you to move freely in your chair and are suitable for the type of flooring in your office.
- A swivel feature that makes it easier for you to reach different points of your workstation without straining excessively.
Darren Sherwood
9. Warranty and return policy
The chair's warranty may cover any flaws in materials or craftsmanship, allowing you to receive a replacement if something goes wrong with it. Most office chairs have one to ten years of warranties, but some have lifetime warranties. The warranty on the office chair may also only cover certain parts; be sure to read the warranty carefully before purchasing.
You may also find vendors and manufacturers who will let you return the office chair for a period if it does not meet your expectations. This is especially important when shopping online. Return policies often range from one to three weeks from the date of purchase.
10. Price
The rule of thumb when spending on any product is to never choose money over value; the same applies here. The price of the chair should be within your budget so that you don’t overspend, but it shouldn't be restrictive to prevent you from finding your ideal ergonomic chair.
Types of Office Chairs
Many types of office chairs exist for various use cases. You will find four basic types on the Australian market: ergonomic saddle chairs, ergonomic ball chairs, traditional office chairs, gaming chairs, and stools.
1. Saddle chairs
Saddle chairs are named after their resemblance to equestrian saddles. They position your body as if you were riding a horse, with your legs apart, knees lowered, and pelvis tilted forwards.
These chairs provide distinct advantages and are commonly seen in dental clinics and beauty salons. They let your spine rest in its natural S curve, activate your core, and relieve lower back discomfort. Saddle seats are also designed to let you move about throughout the day, preventing sedentary behaviour.
2. Ball chairs
A ball chair may be useful for incorporating some exercise into your workplace setting. While they cannot replace traditional ergonomic chairs, they provide good advantages when used for an hour or two daily since they provide a core workout in short spurts.
Furthermore, because they encourage frequent shifts, they enhance your energy use, help you burn more calories, and keep you from sitting in one position for too long. The disadvantage? They do not provide proper seating positions. They also fail to provide lumbar and back support, which are essential in any ergonomic chair.
3. Gaming chairs
Unlike office chairs, gaming chairs are frequently brightly coloured and branded with custom logos, movies, and gaming characters to make them stand out. They are made to provide an immersive gaming experience. And they are more expensive.
Compared to the ergonomic chair options, gaming desks are more flexible. They have superb reclining angles and great ergonomic and customisable features that allow you to fully settle in the chair as comfortably as possible.
Darren Sherwood
4. Stools
Stools are the shortest type of office chair and don't usually have wheels or a backrest. They're perfect for short tasks or when you frequently need to move around your workspace. Stools are also ideal for use with standing desks; they keep you in a position where you're neither sitting nor standing, which can be good for your health.
Why You Need an Office Chair?
Anyone who spends a lot of time at a desk should invest in an office chair. It is not only more comfortable than sitting on a hard surface, but it can also assist in improving your posture and lower your chance of experiencing back or neck pain. Thus, improving your health in the long run.
An office chair can also help you stay productive during long work days by supporting your back and keeping you from being exhausted. And, if you work from home, an office chair can help you focus by creating a separate workstation.
Darren Sherwood
Budgeting for an Office Chair
The cost of an office chair depends on several factors, including the type of chair, the material it is made from, the features it offers, and the brand. The most basic office chairs can be found for as little as $100, but these are often flimsy and uncomfortable. You can expect to pay around $300 to $500 for a good-quality, budget-option, comfortable chair. The range of chairs between $500 and $1000 are ideal for work-from-home setups. Anything above this, you're paying for luxury and extended functionalities.
When deciding your budget, it's essential to consider what type of chair you need. If you spend most of your day sitting at a desk, then a high-quality ergonomic office chair, like the ErgoTune Supreme V3, is a wise investment. They reduce strain on the back and neck and can be adjusted to fit your body type. However, if you only work at a desk or use a computer occasionally, you might get by with a less expensive office chair.
The build material of the office chair greatly influences its cost. Leather chairs tend to be more expensive than fabric chairs, but they offer a luxurious feel and look great in any office setting. Fabric chairs are more budget-friendly but may not be as comfortable or durable as leather chairs. Then there's mesh, which is ideal for warmer climates and offers a balance between the two.
Darren Sherwood
Should You Buy an Office Chair?
Investing in an office chair is prudent for comfort, ergonomic support, and enhanced productivity in a workspace. Yet, it can be challenging to find the perfect office chair among the numerous available options. With the above considerations in mind, you should be able to find a chair that will give you the necessary support and comfort throughout the day.
A quality office chair promotes better posture and contributes to overall well-being, making it a worthwhile investment for those spending extended hours at a desk. Remember to keep an eye on your budget; there are many fantastic chairs available that won't cost a fortune.
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