Finding the right office chair is a priority for anyone who sits for extended periods. When you dedicate significant portions of your day to being seated, comfort and support aren’t just luxuries but necessities.
The Herman Miller brand, well-regarded for its commitment to ergonomic design, has often been at the forefront of many discussions about office furniture. Naturally, my interest was piqued when I came across their Cosm Chair in Australia, so I went and tried it out in the Living Edge store in Richmond (I'm based in Melbourne).
The chair's sleek design is immediately striking, but there's so much more to the office chair than appearance. In this review, I will explore its features, evaluate its comfort and build quality, touch on its aesthetics, and critically assess its value for money based on my experience. Let’s dive deep.
Herman Miller Cosm: At a Glance
I was impressed by my experience with the Herman Miller Cosm Chair. Its innovative design and ergonomic features show that the chair was crafted to provide an unmatched seating journey. What first stood out to me was the "Auto-Harmonic Tilt" technology, a unique feature that allowed the chair to adapt to my posture and movements automatically. This ensured that I was always comfortable without fumbling with manual adjustments.
Likewise, the suspension system of the Cosm Chair used a flexible and supportive system that conformed to the contours of my body. It felt lightweight and breathable, which makes a huge difference during long work hours.
There are options for high-back and mid-back designs, various armrest styles, and various finishes and colours. I tried the mid-back design with adjustable armrests. I'll discuss the differences below. The chair comes fully assembled and has a 12-year warranty.
Although Herman Miller Cosm's automated features are impressive, it did require a bit of a learning curve to adapt to the automation fully—there were moments when I found myself wanting to make manual adjustments. Likewise, I tested its leaf armrests at the living edge showroom, and they were slightly uncomfortable to use. You also get no headrest.
Seat depth: 67.8 cm
Seat width: 67.8 - 74.4 cm
Seat height: 86.4 - 101.6 cm (Low-Back); 98 - 114 cm (Mid-Back); 114 - 130 cm (High-Back)
Back Style: Low, Mid, and High are available
Arm options: Leaf Arm, Fixed Arm, Armless, and Height Adjustable Arm
Mechanism: Auto-Harmonic Tilt
Colours: Canyon, Glacier, Carbon, Studio White, Graphite, and Nightfall
Build material: Polypropylene and Plolymid; Elastomeric Polyester mesh
Best Bits of Herman Miller Cosm Chair
Having personally experienced the Herman Miller Cosm Chair, I can attest to its numerous remarkable features that have led to its widespread popularity among professionals who crave comfort and support during extended work hours. Here is what stood out for me:
1. Build Quality
The Herman Miller Cosm does not lack in quality and exceptional craftsmanship. Kudos to Studio 7.5 for its impeccable design. The materials, ranging from polyamide to polypropylene, ensure flexibility and durability. The highlight for me is the continuous mesh from the backrest to the seat—no irritating gap.
The mesh fabric used in the chair's backrest is comfortable and resistant to wear and tear. It is made from a combination of polyester and elastomeric. The chair's components are also manufactured to exacting standards, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting product.
2. Auto-Harmonic Tilt
One feature that truly resonated with me was the Auto-Harmonic Tilt. The first time I adjusted myself in the chair, I felt it intuitively moving with me. This innovative mechanism dynamically responds to my body's subtle shifts and movements.
Rather than having to fidget and readjust continually, the chair naturally ensures I'm balanced and supported, irrespective of the position I find myself in. But it isn't just about the tilt mechanism. The combination of its flexible frame, the intercept suspension, and the breathable mesh back all contribute to a seating experience that feels almost tailor-made.
Unlike other chairs with automatic tilts, which often make the body adapt to the tilt, Cosm's approach is more intuitive. It intelligently gauges the downward force I apply and adjusts the tension accordingly. This ensures a consistent and comfortable experience that caters to any body type regardless of how you are sitting.
3. Ergonomics & Aesthetics
You start to appreciate the tiny details when you've sat in as many as I have. Besides its automatic tilt mechanism, two other standout features of the Herman Miller Cosm I appreciated were the armrests and the unique approach to the backrest. Both of which are crucial to ergonomics. I'll review them below and help you choose which is ideal on both fronts.
But besides the two, the Cosm chair features a range of advanced ergonomic functionalities, including a flexible frame and suspension technology that seamlessly adjusts to your body, a continuous support backrest that adapts to movement, lumbar support and an optional PostureFit feature for additional lower back support, and quiet roll casters for smooth and noiseless movement, complementing the overall user-friendly design of the office chair.
For aesthetics, Herman Miller Cosm is certainly eye-catching. Its engineering is evident in its distinct curves. The chair offers a range of colours, including graphite, carbon, studio white, nightfall, canyon, and glacier. While these shades lean towards a more sophisticated palette, potential buyers might want to see and judge whether these hues match their sense of style.
To explore how thoughtful design and features like adjustable lumbar support, flexible armrests, and proper seat height can optimise your sitting experience and promote better posture, read my guide on what makes a chair ergonomic.
4. Elastomeric Backrest & Varying Sizes
Experiencing the Cosm chair with the Intercept Suspension was also truly intriguing—likewise, the use of elastomeric materials in its design. The backrest is crafted from elastomeric polyester mesh that offers a remarkable ability to adapt to my body contours as I settle in. The mesh was also breathable, facilitating a comfortable seating experience and proper airflow.
But it doesn't end here. Whether you're tall, short, or fall somewhere in between, Herman Miller Cosm offers diverse sizes and shapes. From Low-Back to Mid-Back and even High-Back options. Here's a little insight into which type might be just right for you:
- The low backrest is perfect if you prioritise an open and airy feel or often move around while seated and want more freedom of movement for your upper body. I recommend them for tasks that involve leaning forward or requiring frequent changes in posture, such as active discussions, quick meetings, or tasks that involve reaching across a table.
- The mid-backrest option for its balance between support and mobility, offering upper back support without restricting movement. Ideal for engaging in a mix of tasks that involve both leaning back for support and leaning forward for focused work.
- Choose the high backrest if you seek comprehensive upper back support, especially during extended periods of seated work. Likewise, a high backrest is ideal if your job requires sustained focus and concentration, such as long hours of computer work or tasks involving reading, writing, or analyzing documents.
Choose a low backrest for quick tasks; mid or high options are more suitable for extended work sessions. If dealing with back or neck concerns, consider mid/high backrests. When aiming to foster collaboration, a low backrest is appropriate, whereas mid/high options are conducive to maintaining focus.
5. Innovative Suspension Leaf Armrest
The armrests of the Cosm chair are also designed with ergonomics in mind, with four variants to choose from. There is the novel leaf arm or suspension leaf, the fixed armrest, no arms, and the height-adjustable armrest. The material covering the armrests is the same breathable mesh found on the backrest. Here's how to decide which to choose:
- Fixed armrests are ideal if you prefer a simple and streamlined design and don't require frequent adjustments. Likewise, the fixed armrests are suitable if you have a consistent sitting position and don't need to change the armrest height or angle frequently.
- Choose height-adjustable armrests if you want some level of customisation and need to adjust the height of their armrests. I opted for them as they allow me to switch between different tasks. Plus, I share the chair with my partner, who I'm slightly taller than, so adjustments come in handy.
- No Armrests are ideal if you prefer an open and unrestricted seating experience. For activities with a wide range of movement where arm support may get in the way such as playing musical instruments.
- The Leaf Arms have a soft but firm cradle design that is supposed to provide a large, cosy resting place for your elbows, but my experience was different.
6. Comfort
Comfort is crucial when choosing an office chair, and the Herman Miller Cosm Chair excels considerably. The chair's ergonomic design and advanced tilt mechanism allow for effortless reclining and encourage natural body movements.
I particularly appreciate the breathable mesh backrest, which ensures a constant airflow that prevents any discomfort caused by heat buildup. The chair provides comprehensive coverage from your thighs to your upper back, ensuring a comfortable experience.
7. Price and Value for Money
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the price tag. Undoubtedly, the Herman Miller Cosm Chair comes with a premium price tag, which may give some potential buyers pause. However, it's crucial to consider its value in terms of comfort, durability, and long-term health benefits.
While the initial investment might seem steep, the chair's quality and performance make it a worthwhile choice for those who prioritise their well-being and spend significant time sitting.
If you're keen to explore more on office chair costs, do glance through my guide on “Office Chair Pricing in Australia.”
8. Warranty & Return Policy
The Herman Miller Cosm comes with an impressive 12-year warranty. Any replacement parts covered by the warranty will be shipped free of charge, and repairs are made by a Herman Miller expert close to you. The warranty also covers the chair as a whole, as stated on the manufacturer's warranty page, "Our warranty covers everything – including electrical components, casters, pneumatic cylinders, tilts, and all moving mechanisms."
Depending on your vendor, you may also get a return policy. And if your vendor offers a return policy, the duration may differ from others.
Drawbacks of the Herman Miller Cosm Chair
While the Herman Miller Cosm is an excellent chair in ergonomics, comfortability, functionality, and Aesthetics, there are some drawbacks.
1. Lack of Headrest
One ergonomic piece missing in the Herman Miller Cosm is a headrest, which I find a concern. When you look at other high-end chairs, a headrest is usually a part of the package.
2. Armrests Could be Uncomfortable
This is not a problem if you chose the adjustable armrest, but the leaf armrest? It felt a bit awkward when I sat in it. The armrest put my elbow and forearm in an unnatural position that became uncomfortable in no time.
3. No Adjustment Knob
For the control freaks, the Herman Miller Cosm is a big no. The automatic adjustment offered by the chair is very innovative and exotic, but it can be frustrating in some regards. Sometimes, I tried reaching out for a knob to adjust my position slightly, but it was not there. Finding the best sitting position for yourself will take some time, especially if you're used to turning knobs.
4. Pricey
Yeah, the price is a big statement. An office chair budget over $2,500 is far from modest for many. You may argue that the features and functionalities are commensurate with the price.
Herman Miller Cosm Rating & Ranking Table
Numbers don't lie as they say. Here is a quick overview of how the Herman Miller Cosm Chair does in numbers.
| Category | Rating (5.0) |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | 4.5 |
| Build Quality | 5.0 |
| Aesthetics | 5.0 |
| Ease of Assembly | 5.0 |
| Pricing | 3.5 |
| Return Policy | 3.5 |
| Warranty | 5.0 |
| Overall | 4.5 |
The Competition: Other Chairs to Consider
The Herman Miller Cosm Chair is not perfect, and it may not fit your needs as well. Looking for other options? Here are three other top-rated ergonomic chairs you can consider.
Ergotune Supreme V3
My top alternative for the Herman Miller Cosm is the Ergotune Supreme V3. The chair also has a strong DuraWave hybrid mesh that is sturdy and comfortable and includes a 12-year warranty with a 21-day return policy.
The Ergotune Supreme V3 has a synchro-tilt mechanism with a wide array of adjustable points. Its excellent ergonomic features include an adjustable backrest, armrest, seat height, seat depth, and headrest. It has an auto-adjusting lumbar support.
ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1
The ErgoFlip Deluxe 2-in-1 chair is a versatile option that offers you two chairs in one. It has an active seating surface and a regular surface. It combines convenience and active sitting in one chair. It features a foam-padded side for normal sitting convenience, while the other has a fit-ball for active seating.
The padded side offers comfortable seating for extended hours while the active surface encourages improved posture, blood flow, and core strength. One significant shortfall of the ErgoFlip Deluxe is that it may take some time to get used to the active surface.
Elite Office X-Ergo Range
The Herman Miller Cosm is a high-end chair, but you can also get a reasonable degree of the functionalities in the X-Ergo Range for far less than the budget. The chair gives you a wide range of adjustability options from the seat height to the seat depth.
A good addition is an adjustable headrest and tension control for adjusting the recline. The X-Ergo Range has a synchro-tilt mechanism and lumbar support for improved spine health. Additionally, its full mesh backrest offers breathability and ventilation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Herman Miller Cosm.
Is the Herman Miller Cosm Chair suitable for all body types?
The Herman Miller Cosm Chair is designed to accommodate a wide range of body types and sizes. Its flexible frame and auto-harmonic tilt mechanism allow the chair to adapt to the user's body, providing personalised support and comfort. However, at this price, I recommend you try the chair first.
Does the Herman Miller Cosm Chair offer lumbar support?
Yes, the Herman Miller Cosm Chair is equipped with built-in lumbar support. The chair's flexible frame and tensioned mesh backrest provide targeted support to the lower back, promoting a healthy and ergonomic sitting posture. The chair's auto-harmonic tilt also contributes to proper spinal alignment and reduces the risk of back strain.
Is the Herman Miller Cosm Chair suitable for extended periods of sitting?
Absolutely. The Herman Miller Cosm Chair is specifically designed to support prolonged sitting sessions. Its ergonomic features, including the auto-harmonic tilt and breathable mesh backrest, contribute to enhanced comfort and prevent fatigue. However, it is still recommended to take periodic breaks and engage in regular movement throughout the day for optimal health and well-being.
What warranty does the Herman Miller Cosm Chair come with?
Herman Miller offers a generous 12-year warranty for the Cosm Chair. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects and ensures that you can enjoy the chair's performance and quality for an extended period. It is always advisable to familiarise yourself with the specific warranty terms and conditions provided by Herman Miller or the authorised retailer from whom you purchase the chair.
Darren Sherwood
So, Is the Herman Miller Cosm Worth It?
The Herman Miller Cosm Chair has an innovative, ergonomic design, coupled with outstanding build quality, that makes it an investment worth considering if you prioritise comfort and support during long work hours.
While it may require a significant upfront investment, the chair's long-term benefits and the potential to improve overall productivity and well-being make it a good choice for those seeking the best in-office seating. The chair also shines as an executive or boardroom chair but would fit equally well in a home office setting for those leaning toward sophistication.
However, the price is such that I would compel you to consider if it is in your budget and to also investigate other options.
