Have you realized how important ergonomic equipment is for your physical wellbeing?
Are you in need of an ergonomic office chair that doesn’t cost as much as your rent? We have gathered a list of the top five options that cost less than $500 for you to consider.
From budget price to big and tall to a Herman Miller alternative, we have a variety of options with which you can start your search.
Table of Contents
3D Ergonomic Office Chair with Lumbar Support & Seat Slider – Best Budget Buy
For less than $200, this ergonomic office chair provides surprising comfort and adjustability to users looking for a quality piece at a budget price.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Adjustable headrest
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Breathable mesh
- Adjustable seat depth
- Tilt and lock function
- Recline up to 135 degrees.
- Can support up to 300 pounds
- High-density foam seat cushion almost 4 inches thick
- Adjustable armrests
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Durability of casters can be an issue
If you’re on a tight budget but need an ergonomic chair for work, this model by Bacyion may be the one for you. Made of breathable mesh, it comes with an adjustable headrest and soft, adjustable lumbar support that can go up and down.
The high-density foam seat cushion is almost 4 inches thick and is wide enough for movement. It also can be adjusted to the correct depth, a rare feature for this price range.
For more comfort, you can recline up to 135 degrees or tilt and lock into your favorite position. Rest easy on a frame that holds up to 300 pounds and comes with a one-year warranty.
Some users had problems with the durability of the casters and had to use the warranty. However, there are many ergonomic features for this price.
KBEST High Back Big & Tall 400lb Office Chair – Best For Big Frames
Finding a chair suitable for large frames can be challenging, but the KBEST High Back Big & Tall chair lays all worries to rest. Support, comfort, and style meet at a price that won’t give you sticker shock.
Pros:
- Adjustable lumbar support
- S-shaped back cushion
- Adjustable tilt tension settings
- Rocking function from 90-110 degrees
- Wider seat with waterfall edge
- High-density foam padding in back and seat
- Bonded leather for classic executive look
- Metal base and seat plate
- Supports up to 400 pounds
Cons:
- Doesn’t recline past 110 degrees
- Non-adjustable armrests
This chair is built to accommodate big and tall users. The S-shaped high back fits the spinal column, and the lumbar support can be adjusted with a knob for maximum comfort.
Both the backrest and the extra-wide seat cushions are made of high-density foam that is comfortable and supportive. Bonded leather gives the executive look that fits into any professional setting.
Instead of just tilting and locking into one position, you can rock back and forth in this chair. However, it doesn’t recline past 110 degrees, which some users find limiting.
The chair rests on a 5-point, metal base that can hold up to 400 lb. The one-year warranty will take care of any problems.
Overall, this is a classy, well-built chair that can withstand the added pressure of large frames.
Bowery Fully Adjustable Management Office Chair – Best Herman Miller Alternative
Coming in at a fraction of the price of the Herman Miller Sayl with many similar features, the Bowery chair is a top pick for an affordable, ergonomic office chair.
Pros:
- Modern, high-end design
- Elastomer backrest
- Highly adjustable seat
- Adjustable armrests
- Lightweight
- Two-year warranty
Cons:
- No headrest
The Bowery’s most noticeable feature is the elastomer backrest. Instead of the typical mesh, the backrest is made of high-quality rubber that moves with you and molds to the contours of your back while providing support.
It relieves pressure from your muscles and spine while also giving you breathability.
The seat can be adjusted to five different depths, recline, and lock into four different positions. The armrests can also shift to six different heights.
The only drawback is the lack of headrest, which can be a necessity for people suffering from neck pain.
NOUHAUs Ergo3D Ergonomic Office Chair – Best Versatility
The Ergo3D offers complete, breathable comfort with plenty of adjustable features for office work and gaming.
Pros:
- Adjustable headrest
- 3D adjustable lumbar support
- Breathable mesh
- 3D adjustable armrests
- Tilt up to 135 degrees
- Dual blade casters
- Easy assembly
- Good for office work and gaming
Cons:
- Not good for people over 6’ 1”
- Not suitable for heavier users
This highly adjustable chair provides relief for office work and gaming alike. The headrest is ideal for people suffering with neck pain. The 3D lumbar support will wrap around your lower back and ease tension.
Rest your arms on the 3D armrests that change height, width, and move forward and back.
The chair seat goes up to 22.4 inches high on a hydraulic-gas lift. A major selling point is the Super-Lounge Recline feature that allows you to lean back to 135 degrees—perfect for those who need a gaming chair in their spare time.
The frame can support up to 275 pounds, so it’s not good for large-framed people.
For a chair that can be used for multiple activities, the Ergo3D is a great choice.
HON Ignition 2.0 Mesh Back Task Chair – Best Tilt Feature
The HON Ignition 2.0 has distinguished itself as an affordable chair with ergonomic, adjustable features that are usually reserved for much more expensive models.
Pros:
- Fits short and tall people
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Adjustable seat depth
- Adjustable seat height
- Adjustable armrest height and width
- Sturdy construction
- Thick, durable seat cushion
- Breathable, mesh back
- Smooth-rolling caster wheels
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Mostly plastic materials
If you’re looking for an ergonomic office chair that can fit a wide range of people and still provide the needed support, the HON Ignition fits the bill. The adjustable lumbar support reduces strain on your lower back, and the seat depth can be adjusted to fit your legs correctly. The seat cushion is thick, comfortable, and durable.
To lean back and relax at work, the synchro-tilt mechanism comes in handy. With this function, the backrest and seat recline at a different ratio. For every two degrees the back reclines, the seat tilts 1 degree. This allows your feet to rest on the floor and prevents extra pressure on your thighs.
The armrests can be adjusted in both height and width. After adjusting the armrests, seat height and depth, and lumbar support, you will be in a much healthier position that will make working all day long a pleasure instead of a pain.
The plastic construction of this chair can be a deterrent for some people, since metal is preferred for durability. However, the Ignition has a very solid feel with its reinforced resin base that supports up to 300 pounds, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is more than most budget chairs offer.
A 4-way stretch mesh back offers breathability, comfort, and easy care.
People who love to recline may find the Ignition to be their office solution.
Buyer’s Guide
Use the checklist below to make sure you find a chair that has all the crucial features that you need. Remember, no two people are alike, so a chair that is perfect for someone else may not work for you. Be sure to find what works for you and meets your specific needs.
Seat Width And Depth
Standard seats are 17-20 inches wide and should give enough extra space for comfortable movement. Seat depth should leave 2-4 inches of space between the edge and the back of your knees. Chairs that have adjustable seat depth are ideal.
Lumbar Support
Lumbar support is critical to lower back health. The ability to adjust it to fit the shape of your spine will prevent strain and pain, especially if you spend long hours in the chair. The best lumbar support will be adjustable in both height and depth, but that can vary among types of chairs.
Backrest
The backrest should fit the natural curvature of your spine. Some are adjustable in height, and others recline and tilt to varying degrees. Your comfort will determine which style is best for you.
Seat Material
The material you sit on is a major comfort factor. Mesh is ideal for people who sweat easily, while other users prefer the softness of bonded leather. No matter what you choose, it should be comfortable for long periods of time and easy to clean.
Armrests
Although easy to overlook, adjustable armrests make a difference in a natural, relaxed position. Most are height-adjustable, but some can also be adjusted in width and angle.
Swivel
Most office chairs are made with a 360-degree swivel function. This comes in handy when reaching to different areas of your desk and can reduce muscle strain.
Conclusion
If the word “ergonomic” means “too expensive” to you, now you know that there are affordable options out there that come with plenty of adjustable features to ensure a healthy, comfortable workspace.
Whether you prefer mesh or leather, headrest or none, there are plenty of options to choose from. Take your time and find the one that fits your body and budget.