Discover the ultimate solution for ergonomic comfort with our comprehensive review of the best ergonomic desk stools of 2024. Designed to revolutionize your workspace experience, these stools have been meticulously tested and rated by our expert team. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your posture, alleviate back pains, or simply optimize your productivity, our selection caters to diverse needs and preferences. We’ve rigorously evaluated nearly fifty models, considering factors such as assembly efficiency, weight capacity, and suitability for various body types. Our testing process extends beyond traditional criteria to encompass features like recline and tilt controls, as well as dynamic lumbar support, ensuring a tailored fit for every user. With a focus on durability, stability, and breathability, our reviews provide an insightful glimpse into each stool’s performance in real-world home office environments. Elevate your workspace with our recommendations, carefully curated to elevate both comfort and productivity. And for those seeking additional enhancements, explore our evaluations of the best standing desks and office desks for a complete ergonomic setup.
BEST OVERALL
Steelcase Series 2
Backrest: 22.5 x 18in
Seat depth: 14.5 to 17in
Seat height: 16.5 to 21.5in
Weight load: 400lbs
Warranty: 12 years
BEST FOR LUMBAR SUPPORT
Secretlab Titan
Backrest: 33 x 21.6in
Seath depth: 19.6in
Seat height: 18.7 to 22.4in
Weight load: 286lbs
Warranty: 5 years
Best value
Humanscale Freedom
Backrest: 21 x 17.9in
Seat depth: 16.3 – 18.5in
Seat height: 16.1 to 20.2in
Weight load: 300lbs
Warranty: 15 years
BEST BIG AND TALL OFFICE CHAIR
Steelcase Gesture
Backrest: 24 x 16in
Seat depth: 15 – 18.5in
Seat height: 16 to 21in
Weight load: 400lbs
Warranty: 12 years
BEST OFFICE CHAIR FOR GAMING
Razer Enki
Backrest: 32 x 19.6in
Seat depth: 20.6in
Seat height: 17.5 to 21.4in
Weight load: 300lbs
Warranty: 3 years
BEST BUDGET OFFICE CHAIR
Corsair TC100 Relaxed
Backrest: 31.8 x 23.4in
Seat depth: 19.6in
Seat height: 17.7 to 21.6in
Weight load: 264lbs
Warranty: 2 years
BEST OFFICE CHAIR FOR BACK PAIN
Sihoo Doro C300
Backrest: 20.4 – 22.8 x 21.2in
Seat depth: 16.5in
Seat height: 15.7 to 17.7in
Weight load: 300lbs
Warranty: 3 years
BEST OFFICE CHAIR FOR GOOD POSTURE
Flexispot BS11 Pro / C8
Backrest: 24 x 17.3in
Seat depth: 20.4in
Seat height: 18.5 to 21.2in
Weight load: 286lbs
Warranty: 5 years
Steelcase Series 2
Our top pick for best office task chair
REASONS TO BUY
- Comfortable
- Affordable ergonomic design
- Customizable
- Backed by Limited Lifetime Warranty
REASONS TO AVOID
- No recline lock
- Not a budget model
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The Steelcase Gesture is another top contender in the realm of ergonomic office chairs. Boasting a dynamic support system that adjusts to various postures and movements, it provides exceptional comfort throughout the workday. Its sleek, contemporary design seamlessly blends into any workspace, whether at home or in the office, and it also comes with a commendable 12-year warranty for added assurance.
What sets the Steelcase Gesture apart is its innovative design tailored to support modern work styles. We tested the standard model, but it’s available with optional features like adjustable lumbar support, a headrest, or a variety of upholstery choices. The seat height ranges from 16 to 21 inches, and the armrests are highly adjustable to accommodate users of all shapes and sizes. With a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds, it caters to a diverse range of individuals.
Adjusting the chair to suit personal preferences is a breeze, thanks to its intuitive controls and responsive mechanisms. However, some users may find the seat cushioning to be firmer than expected. Despite this minor caveat, the Steelcase Gesture delivers outstanding performance and versatility, earning it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars as a top-notch office chair option.
Pros
✅ You want comfort
The Series 2 provides plenty of comfort if you’re at your desk all day, with a breathable fabric that stays cool.
✅ You want options and lots of them
This office chair comes in a variety of models and materials to match your office furniture and seating preferences.
Cons
❌ You like to lean back a lot
The Steelcase Series 2 doesn’t feature a recline lock, so the back springs back once pressure is lifted.
❌ You need a budget office chair
While it’s very well-priced for a professional ergonomic office chair, the Series 2 isn’t the cheapest on the market.
Secretlab Titan
Firm support with this desk chair
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
If you need solid, adjustable lumbar support, the Secretlab Titan is worth considering—especially if you dislike the cushioned softness of other chairs. However, it’s important to note that the lumbar support is quite firm, which might not suit everyone.
Topping our list of gaming chairs for overall comfort, cost, and support for big and tall users, the Secretlab Titan features a professional, near-utilitarian design that makes it suitable for both office and home office settings.
The seat height ranges from 18.7 to 22.4 inches, and it can support up to 287 pounds, accommodating a wide range of body types. Our 6’3″ reviewer found it easy to adjust the chair to the perfect position. The adjustment process is straightforward, thanks to the extensive range of controls, though some adjustments, like the armrest widths, require tools.
The chair is available in ‘leatherette’ (PU leather), fabric, and Napa leather. However, there is no mesh option, which means it might lack breathability for those using it for extended periods.
For an alternative office chair with adjustable lumbar support, we recommend the X-Chair X2 office chair, though it can be difficult to find outside the US.
Pros
✅ You want firm lumbar support
The Titan’s adjustable lumbar support is firm, which is great for those who find that more comfortable.
✅ You want a discreetly designed gaming chair
It may not be an office chair, but the Secretlab Titan is so discreetly designed that it will easily blend into the office or home office.
Cons
❌ You need softer lumbar support
Compared to models like the Doro C-300, the lumbar support on this chair is quite solid and lacks the usual sponginess.
❌ You want a budget office chair
The Titan isn’t the cheapest office chair out there – even with the free memory foam head pillow shipped in every box.
Humanscale Freedom
Executive-level comfort from this task chair
REASONS TO BUY
- Total all-day comfort
- Perfectly designed for long hours sitting
- Flexible backrest
REASONS TO AVOID
- Premium price-tag
- Some plastic components
With 4.5 stars and a TechRadar Recommends badge, the Humanscale Freedom stands out as the best office chair for long hours and comfort. It’s not heavily padded, so you won’t sink into it like an old leather reading chair, making it ideal for maintaining focus while working. Additionally, you won’t find yourself constantly adjusting and reclining to find the perfect spot.
The basic model features fabric cushioning and a sturdy graphite frame, though a leather version is available at about double the price. We reviewed the fabric version and found it comfortably met our needs. The flexible backrest is particularly impressive, adapting to your shape to provide consistent comfort over long periods.
Everything about the chair, from the smooth-rolling casters and padded armrests to the detachable headrest, feels well-made (although our headrest occasionally slipped from its position). This quality is expected from a chair with a starting price of around $500/£500, and the high price tag is one of the few downsides we noted during our review.
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Pros
✅ You want total comfort
This office chair was made to keep you comfortable and focused on the job.
✅ You’re sitting for long hours
Freedom is the right word – built for productivity and no fatigue when sitting for extended periods of time.
Cons
❌ You’re working to a budget
Even the base model of this Humanscale office chair costs several times more than a budget office chair.
❌ You depend on your headrest
While we liked the headrest of the Humanscale Freedom, we did find it had a tendency to slip down at times.
Steelcase Gesture
Fit for all body types
REASONS TO BUY
- Very comfortable
- High weight load
- Premium office chair design
- Long warranty
REASONS TO AVOID
- Premium price-tag
- Lumbar support feels lacking
- Headrest is aggressively firm
The Steelcase Leap is another standout option for big and tall users, offering exceptional support and comfort with a weight capacity of up to 400 lbs. This chair is designed to accommodate a wide range of body types, thanks to its spacious, well-cushioned seat. One of the Leap’s most impressive features is its extensive range of customization and adjustability, allowing users to achieve their ideal seating position. The armrests are particularly user-friendly and easy to adjust, while the seat and backrest might require a bit more time to find the perfect configuration.
Despite the overall comfort and support, there are a few areas where the Leap could improve. The lumbar support, although present, is somewhat understated. During testing, the curvature was subtle and somewhat difficult to discern through the chair’s ample cushioning. Additionally, the headrest might be too firm for some users, potentially causing discomfort during extended periods of use.
Nevertheless, the Steelcase Leap excels in providing robust support and comfort, making it a strong contender for those in need of a durable and accommodating office chair. Its cushioned design, while not offering the breathability of mesh alternatives, provides a plush seating experience that many users will appreciate. Overall, the Leap is a worthy alternative to the Steelcase Gesture, particularly for those who prioritize a cushioned seating experience
Pros
✅ You want an office chair for the big and the tall
The Steelcase Gesture boasts a weight load of up to 400lbs, which is higher than the average office chair.
✅ You want an office chair that looks the business
The Gesture is stylish, elegant, with a premium look that matches its premium price-tag.
Cons
❌ You’re on a budget
This office chair doesn’t come cheap – and in many ways it’s hard to justify its high price-tag.
❌ You need great lumbar support
Lumbar support, while present, is distinctly lacking and undefined behind the cushioning.
Razer Enki
Work, rest, and play
REASONS TO BUY
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent fixed lumbar support
- Doesn’t hold body heat
- 4D armrests
REASONS TO AVOID
- Higher price than other gaming and office chairs-
- Lumbar support is non-adjustable
In the market for a gaming chair that doubles as a comfy office seat? Look no further than the Razer Enki, alongside the Corsair TC100 Relaxed and Secretlab Titan. All three chairs boast excellent build quality and sleek black designs that wouldn’t look out of place in a professional setting. While the Enki might be a bit pricier, it makes up for it with what many consider the best lumbar support in its class. The lack of adjustability is a minor drawback, but the extended shoulder arches and wide seat base ensure a comfortable fit for most body types. Breathability might be a concern for some since there’s no mesh option, but the soft materials used minimize heat retention during long gaming sessions. Check out our full Razer Enki review for an in-depth look
Pros
Cons
You need the cheapest chair for your office
Corsair TC100 Relaxed
An office chair that won’t break the bank
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable
- Smart, monochromatic design
- Comfortable with good all-over support
REASONS TO AVOID
- No breathable mesh variant-
- Weight load is low to average
Stepping away from the usual loud gaming chair design, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed offers a surprisingly professional aesthetic. Available in black or black and gray, with fabric or leatherette choices, it blends seamlessly into an office environment. This budget-friendly chair prioritizes comfort, boasting ample support for your back, shoulders, and neck. While the wide seat caters to users up to 6ft 2in, the weight limit of 264lbs might be a concern for larger individuals. Assembly can be a chore, so plan on extra time and possibly a helping hand. Don’t be fooled by the basic design though, because the TC100 Relaxed delivers on comfort and build quality, all at a very attractive price point.
Pros
✅ You want a budget office chair
Smart and affordable, this understated seat will seamlessly blend in under any desk. That it’s really a gaming chair will be your own little secret.
✅ You want simple comfort
It may be a basic office chair, but it’s surprisingly comfortable, with good back, neck, and lumbar support.
Cons
❌ You need a mesh office chair
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed comes in either fabric and leatherette variants, which aren’t as airy as mesh.
❌ You need extra support
The weight load here is just 264lbs – our 200lbs reviewer had no issues with support – but it is low to average.
Sihoo Doro C300
Ergonomically designed to relieve discomfort
REASONS TO BUY
- Provides all-day comfort
- Affordable ergonomic design for back pain and posture
- Breathable mesh materials
- Dynamic lumbar support
REASONS TO AVOID
- Armrests have a lot of movement-
- Comes completely disassembled
Built for exceptional back support, the Sihoo Doro C300 stands out as an ergonomic champion. It boasts a high-end look with a unique dynamic lumbar support that adjusts to your movements, keeping you comfortable throughout the workday. Notably, this chair delivers this stellar performance at a significantly lower price point compared to similar options.
While the initial setup requires assembly of most components, the end result is a rock-solid chair with impressive build quality. The breathable mesh back offers a perfect balance of firmness and comfort, providing excellent support for your back and shoulders. Even the neck rest, a common weak point in ergonomic chairs, impressed with its snug and effective design.
Our testing, which involved extended periods glued to the chair (eight to ten hours!), yielded positive results. We experienced no back pain, fatigue, or pressure on the lower back. However, the 3D armrests, while offering great adjustability, did tend to move around a little more than desired.
This is a fantastic ergonomic office chair, especially for those seeking exceptional lumbar support. It caters well to average and shorter users, with a weight limit of 300lbs accommodating larger individuals as well. Keep in mind that taller users might find the lower back support doesn’t fully conform to their body shape.
Pros
✅ You want an affordable ergonomic office chair
The Sihoo Doro C-300 is an affordable ergonomic office that costs a lot less than rival models.
✅ You want to relieve lower back pains
With its all-over comfort and support, we experienced no pains or fatigue even when using it all day.
Cons
❌ You want the best armrests
We liked the Doro C-300’s 3D armrests, but more than once we placed an elbow down only to find they’d shifted position.
❌ You want quick and easy assembly
You’ll need to fit together this office chair from scratch. Instructions are simple to follow, but it may take extra time.
Flexispot BS11 Pro / C8
No slouching in the back
REASONS TO BUY
- Very comfortable
- Great for better posture
- Good ergonomics
- Unique design
REASONS TO AVOID
- No adjustable lumbar support-
- Assembly time longer than we’d like
The Flexispot BS11 Pro lives up to its nickname as the company’s crown jewel. This chair combines strength and simplicity with exceptional comfort for extended periods. It boasts a professional and premium look that belies its affordable price tag.
Be aware of some look-alikes: Flexispot OC14, Flexispot C8, and Ergonomic Pro. These chairs likely share the same core design with regional name variations.
Finding a chair that promotes good posture is crucial for desk warriors. The BS11 Pro excels in this area, despite initial skepticism. At first, the chair and backrest felt firm, resisting our bad posture habits. However, within minutes, the supportive design encouraged us to sit with proper alignment.
While not flawless, the BS11 Pro offers some trade-offs. It lacks adjustable lumbar support, potentially hindering lower back pain relief. Additionally, the weight limit is 286lbs, and seat height adjustment ranges from 46.4 to 49.6 inches, which might not be ideal for all users, particularly the very tall. Assembly also takes longer than some, averaging around 20 minutes.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the wait for assembly is rewarded with exceptional comfort throughout the workday without sacrificing posture. The build quality is impressive; the frame remained rock-solid and quiet even after a month of daily use.
For a similar option, consider the Flexispot C7. While some users report back pain concerns, the C7 offers self-adaptive back support at a competitive price point.
Pros
✅ You want to improve your posture
It may take a moment to adjust, but this chair seems determined to keep you sitting up straight.
✅ You enjoy all-day comfort
The Flexispot C8 / OC14 / BS11 Pro is intensely comfortable, even when used for long periods of time. We even found the armrests a restful delight.
Cons
❌ You need an ergonomic office chair for back pain
There’s no adjustable or dynamic lumbar support, so you won’t be able to modify it if the set-up isn’t comfortable.
❌ You need quick and easy set-up
It’s not difficult to put together the BS11 Pro, but it’s not the quickest assembly we’ve ever experienced.
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Our team of office furniture experts has tested nearly 50 different office chairs, task chairs, and desk seats. While not all can be crowned the best office chair, here are some models we’ve reviewed that are worth an honorable mention
Razer Iskur
If you like the bucket seat look but want something more elegant and breathable, Razer’s Iskur Fabric offers an elevated design and luxurious feel. It surpasses most other bucket seat gaming chairs on the market with far superior lumbar support, making it notably more comfortable. Additionally, it’s surprisingly more affordable than it appears.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable
- A classy look from Razer
- 4D armrests
- Enhanced lumbar support
Cons
- Fabric is a hair magnet
- Still expensive
- Hard to clean
SIHOO M90D
The Sihoo M90D is an affordable mesh-and-fabric chair with a premium feel. It boasts adaptive lumbar support and plenty of adjustability options, with a maximum load capacity of up to 330 lbs (149 kg). While it may be somewhat basic compared to its rivals, it’s a great option for saving money on an office chair without compromising on quality.
Pros
- Mesh back
- +Adaptive lumbar support
- +Firm yet soft seat cushion
- +Good adjustability all around
- +Supports up to 330 lbs (149 kg)
- +Ships with a headrest included
Cons
- Mesh back features an odd pattern
- Not the easiest office chair to assemble
FlexiSpot BS10
Combining mesh and fabric for best of both worlds comfort, the BS10 has a professional, minimalist design. We like the lumbar support, which can be adjusted about 8 cm and gives amazing back support, and the seat whose depth you can adjust as well. This office chair is available in the UK.
Pros
Cons
- xpensive
- –A bit noisy
- –Short warranty
- –Available in one color
Steelcase Gesture Office Chair
This eye-catching design certainly lives up to its name—it’s full of personality and customizable with either a headrest or a bar to hang your go-to office scarf or blanket. While it doesn’t delve as deeply into ergonomics as other office chairs, it offers a decent number of adjustments and is quite comfortable for an entire workday. Unfortunately for US and UK customers, it’s only available in Asia and the Pacific region.
Pros
- +Relatively affordable
- +Great colours
- +Comfortable
Cons
- Not ergonomic enough
- –Limited adjustments
HOW WE TEST THE BEST ergonomic desk stool
At EspyReviews Pro, we’ve extensively tested, reviewed, and rated a wide range of office furniture, including the best standing desk converters and standing desk mats. Our approach to reviewing chairs for both office and home use is equally rigorous. We assess each chair’s overall design, adjustability, and comfort with meticulous attention to detail.
Our team of expert reviewers includes individuals of different heights and weights, ensuring that we can evaluate how each chair accommodates various body types. We don’t just rely on the manufacturer’s specifications for height range and weight capacity; we conduct real-world tests to verify these claims.
Each chair undergoes a thorough assessment for at least a week, and in some cases, we’ve continued using the chair for years to gauge its long-term performance. During our tests, we closely examine the materials used, the number of adjustments available, ease of setup and use, and the overall comfort level. We use a stopwatch to accurately measure assembly times, noting that anything taking 45 minutes or more is considered lengthy and will be highlighted in our reviews to set proper expectations.
We also compare prices and value-for-money before making our final recommendations. Our reviews cover a broad spectrum of options, including premium, mid-range, and budget choices, ensuring that we test them all in our labs. This comprehensive approach allows us to provide you with reliable advice on which models are worth your investment and which brands are most dependable. Additionally, we consider the warranty and return policies for added peace of mind.
For more details on our thorough testing process, visit our article on “How we test, review, and rate office chairs” on EspyReviews Pro.
BEST OFFICE CHAIRS: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ergonomic Office Chair
An ergonomic office chair is designed for comfort and better posture while sitting, providing support for your lower back and improved body weight distribution.
Executive Office Chair
A premium, padded office chair, usually boasting a high-back and leather upholstery, designed for all-day comfort and support.
Mid-Back Office Chair
This chair features a backrest that reaches below the shoulders. It’s popular in smaller home offices, boardrooms, and communal areas.
Gaming Chair
A plush, adjustable chair, usually covered with fabric or leatherette for soft cushioning during long gaming sessions.
High-Back Office Chair
A classic tall office chair design, offering full back support from the base of the spine to the neck. Often, these chairs feature a built-in or detachable headrest.
Task Chair
A functional chair built for most workspaces and employee body types. These chairs typically have a slim profile, compact ergonomic design, and a focus on productivity.
What is Lumbar Support?
Lumbar support refers to the ergonomically designed curve of the backrest, providing all-around support to your lower back and spine while promoting better posture. If you want to relieve back pain while sitting for long hours, good lumbar support is essential. The best ergonomic office chairs feature either fixed or adjustable lumbar support.
- Fixed Lumbar Support: This immovable support is positioned to benefit most users and body types.
- Adjustable Lumbar Support: These supports can be customized to suit your sitting style. Some can be moved up and down, accommodating both tall and short users. Others, known as dynamic or self-adaptive lumbar supports, adapt to your body to offer all-day support.
What is the Best Office Chair Size for My Height?
Different office chairs offer different seat height ranges, making some better for tall people while others are ideal for petite and average heights. Being able to comfortably plant your feet on the floor and have your elbows resting at a 90 to 110-degree angle is vital for good office ergonomics. Here’s what to look for:
- Shorter than 5’3″: Choose a chair with a lowest seat height under 17 inches. For those 4’11” or shorter, look for a seat height below 16 inches, such as the Herman Miller Embody or Steelcase Leap.
- Taller than 6’5″: Opt for a chair with a highest seat height of 21 inches or above. We include height ranges in all our office chair reviews to help you find the best fit.
What is the Best Material for an Office Chair?
Choosing the best material for an office chair depends on personal preference, how well your body handles heat, and the typical temperature in your office.
- Leather or Similar Finishes: Ideal for those who don’t run hot or sweat much. Premium brands like Herman Miller and Mavix offer great options. Easy to clean but requires regular maintenance.
- Fabric: Suitable for those who don’t prefer mesh and run at a moderate temperature. Absorbs spills, sweat, and dust, requiring deeper cleaning.
- Mesh: Best for those who run hot and sweat a lot. Offers breathability, but may stretch over time. Requires minimal clean-up effort compared to fabric.
When choosing a material, consider ease of cleaning. Mesh can be wiped with soap and water, while fabric might need deep cleaning. Leather is easy to wipe but requires regular maintenance. Avoid harsh cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
