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Whether you’ve spent your work-from-home days on your couch, at your overly crowded kitchen counter or dining table, or sitting criss-cross, apple sauce on the floor at your coffee table (all things I have done), you may be looking to invest in some more permanent and ergonomic office furniture. An office chair is a great place to start, and the good news is that there are plenty of stylish and comfortable options that won’t break the bank.
What to consider when buying a budget office chair
Comfort
Comfort is one of the most important, if not the most important thing to consider when you’re selecting the best office chair. If you can, try to test out the office chairs you’re considering in person. If you can’t test the actual chairs you’re considering, try to at least get a feel for what materials and style you like, as the comfort of your chair depends largely on those things. For example, leather can be cooler, but the cushion and support will depend on the type of filling, while mesh may keep you just as cool while providing flexible and low-profile support. Ergonomic features are also a must if you’re looking for the best office chair for back pain, or just find yourself with a sore neck after a full day of looking at your screen.
You might be wondering about the comfort of a gaming chair vs. office chair. Comfort is also an important factor when shopping for the best gaming chair but an office chair is meant to be used all day as opposed to a few hours. While you might game all day, a gaming chair may not necessarily be the most optimal chair for your posture, and it may not be the most comfortable for all-day sitting.
Style
The aesthetic of your office can have a significant effect on your work-lifestyle and morale. Especially if you spend the majority of your work hours at home, you’ll want to consider how the style of your office chair matches your space.
Space
This goes without saying, but you want to make sure your office chair is compatible with the space you have, whether that’s in a separate home office or a designated area of another room. Measuring your space can help you make sure you can accommodate the dimensions of each chair you’re considering, especially if you’re shopping online. If you have a smaller space, there are plenty of options that are comfortable and compact.
Our top picks for best budget office chairs
Best budget ergonomic office chairs: Flash Furniture Kelista Ergonomic Leather Soft/Mesh Swivel Mid-Back Task Office Chair
For a basic and affordable ergonomic office chair, try the Flash Furniture Kelista Ergonomic Office Chair. With a leather cushioned seat to keep you supported all day, the waterfall edge is designed to keep circulation in your lower legs. The mesh back is firm with minimalistic lumbar support to keep your spine aligned, and allows optimal airflow to keep you cool.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 37.5" - 41.25" H x 24.5" W x 25.5" D
- Ergonomics: Built-in lumbar support, waterfall seat, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: Up to 250 pounds
- Adjustability: Flip-up arms, seat height, seat tilt, tilt lock
- Color(s): Black
- Seat height: 17.25 - 20.75 inches
- Seat width: 20.25 inches
- Seat depth: 19 inches
- Price on publish: $191.79
What we like:
- Swivel seat
- Commercial grade quality
- BIFMA certified
- One-year warranty
- Financing is available
What we don’t like:
- Partial assembly required
- No recline
The bottom line:
For under $200, the Flash Furniture Kelista Ergonomic Office Chair keeps your spine aligned, promotes circulation, and is designed for durability and all-day use.
Flash Furniture Kelista Ergonomic LeatherSoft/Mesh Swivel Mid-Back Task Office Chair, Black (BLX5MLEA)
Best office chair under $500: Serta Works Bonded Leather Executive Office Chair
In case you didn’t know, the popular mattress brand Serta, also makes office chairs. The Serta Works Bonded Leather Executive Office Chair is highly adjustable and ergonomic, making it a great investment if you’re going to be sitting for long periods of time. The contoured padding and high-density foam combine with adjustable locking seat tilt to make sure your circulation is on point all day. We love the elegant beige color that draws the eye and is sure to brighten any work space.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 41.25 - 45" H x 26" W x 30" D
- Ergonomics: Contoured lumbar support, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Adjustability: Seat height, lumbar support, seat tilt, tilt lock
- Color(s): Beige
- Seat height: 28.25 inches
- Seat width: 19.75 inches
- Seat depth: 19.25 inches
- Price on publish: $396.99
What we like:
- Reclines
- One-year warranty
- Very adjustable
What we don’t like:
- Price
- Full assembly required
The bottom line:
As an investment, Serta’s Bonded Leather Executive Office Chair is a comfortable, elegant and supportive choice.
Serta Works Bonded Leather Executive Office Chair, American Beige (CH200112)
Best office chair under $300: Modway Task Chair
If you’re keeping your budget under $300, the Modway Task Chair looks basic, but boasts a good amount of hidden features for the price. The firm mesh back promotes airflow to keep you cool and provides stiff lumbar support all day. The backrest, seat angle, seat depth, and overall height of the chair are all adjustable to your body and preferences. Plus it comes in six classic colors for a simple but professional look in your home office.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 37 - 41.5'' H x 26'' W x 25'' D
- Ergonomics: Passive lumbar support, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: Not listed
- Adjustability: Backrest, seat angle, seat depth, seat tilt, tilt lock, tilt tension
- Color(s): Red, Brown, Gray, Green, Black, Blue
- Seat height: 22 inches
- Seat width: 19 inches
- Seat depth: 20 inches
- Price on publish: $133.34
What we like:
- Very adjustable
- Affordable
What we don’t like:
- No warranty
- Assembly required
- Prop 65 warning
The bottom line:
The Modway Task Chair boasts adjustability and ergonomic features for a very affordable price.
Modway Articulate Mesh Office Chair
Most stylish budget office chair: Etta Avenue Elliana Task Chair
With just one glance, there’s no denying that the Elliana Task Chair is a stylish option for your home office. Though for style you sacrifice some ergonomic features, this task chair’s skin-friendly velvet, adjustable height, and sturdy frame will still keep you comfortable and cozy all day long. Compatible with carpet, hard wood and more, and available in eight different colors, this chair is adaptable for many different spaces and uses.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 29.5 - 33.5'' H x 24.4'' W x 24.4'' D
- Ergonomics: Tilting seat
- Chair weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Adjustability: Seat height, seat tilt, tilt lock
- Color(s): Cactus Velvet, Dark Blue Velvet, Beige Velvet, Black Velvet, Rose Velvet, Canary Polyester, Dark Gray Velvet, Gray Velvet
- Seat height: 21.3 inches
- Seat width: 16.1 inches
- Seat depth: 16.9 inches
- Price on publish: $106.99 - $132.99 depending on color
What we like:
- Compatible with all flooring
- One-year limited warranty
- Price
What we don’t like:
- Not super ergonomic
- Assembly required
The bottom line:
The Elliana Task Chair is a very affordable, comfortable, and stylish option to keep your body feeling good and your workspace happy.
Etta Avenue Elliana Task Chair
Best budget stool for the office: Wilhelm Lab Stool
If your focus is keeping your office space minimal and efficient, you may consider a stool instead of a full chair. The Wilhelm Lab Stool is a simple and adjustable option to meet basic needs. Though they don’t offer the same direct support as a chair, stools can be beneficial by promoting circulation and core engagement throughout the day. To get even more out of these benefits, you may even consider a balance ball stool.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 20.5 - 26.5'' H X 24'' W X 24'' D
- Ergonomics: None
- Chair weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Adjustability: Height
- Color(s): Black, Beige, Gray
- Seat height: N/A
- Seat width: 16 inches
- Seat depth: 16 inches
- Price on publish: $123.99
What we like:
- Minimal and space-saving
- Commercial grade quality
- MAS Certified Green® product
- Six-year limited warranty
What we don’t like:
- Not efficient with every surface
- Assembly required (make sure you have a screwdriver)
The bottom line:
If you want to venture into the minimalism of a stool, the Wilhelm Lab Stool is a simple, adjustable, and affordable option.
Wilhelm Adjustable Height Lab Stool with Wheels
Best budget executive chair: BestOffice Office Chair Ergonomic Computer Chair
If you want to feel like a comfortable executive on a budget, look no further than the BestOffice Ergonomic Computer Chair. With an adjustable seat, ergonomic armrests that support your natural seated position, and a reclining back, this chair is a great option to get all your work done efficiently and maximize your boss moments. With over 5,500 five-star reviews, it’s available in three colors and is compatible with multiple floor surfaces.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 45.7 - 48.8” H x 27" W x 29" D
- Ergonomics: Adjustable seat, armrests, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Adjustability: Height, seat tilt
- Color(s): Black, Brown, White
- Seat height: 28.7 inches
- Seat width: 22.2 inches
- Seat depth: 21.7 inches
- Price on publish: $69.99 - $94.98 depending on color
What we like:
- Price
- Ergonomic armrests
- BIFMA certified
What we don’t like:
- Some users say seat cushion is thin
- Assembly required
The bottom line:
A bargain for the price, the BestOffice Ergonomic Computer Chair offers support and comfort for your most executive moments.
BestOffice Office Chair Cheap Desk Chair Ergonomic Computer Chair with Lumbar Support Arms Headrest PU Leather Modern Rolling Swivel Executive Chair for Back Pain Women Men Adults,Black
Best budget big and tall office chair: Staples Lockland Ergonomic Leather Managers Big & Tall Chair
If you’re in need of a bigger size or weight capacity, there are plenty of under-budget options out there. The Staples Lockland Ergonomic Leather Managers Big & Tall Chair is priced under $250, holds up to 400 lbs for up to 10 hours consecutively, and comes with adjustable features like lumbar support and seat tilt. With a wider seat and higher armrests, this is a great option for bigger and taller bodies. With a generous seven-year warranty (one of the longest on this list), you can feel that much more secure in the quality of this product.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 45.7" - 49.6" H x 29.3" W x 31.2" D
- Ergonomics: Lumbar support, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Adjustability: Lumbar support, seat tilt, tilt lock
- Color(s): Black
- Seat height: 31" H
- Seat width: 21.26 inches
- Seat depth: 18.74 inches
- Price on publish: $229.99
What we like:
- Price
- Seven-year warranty
- Daily usage length of eight to 10 hours
- Meets BIFMA standards
What we don’t like:
- No recline
- Full assembly required
- Prop 65 warning
The bottom line:
The Staples Lockland Ergonomic Leather Managers Big & Tall Chair offers important ergonomic features, an extra wide seat and higher armrests for under $250.
Staples Lockland Ergonomic Leather Managers Big & Tall Chair, 400 lb. Capacity, Black (58067)
Best budget office chairs for back pain: BestOffice Massage Desk Chair
Who doesn’t love a good midday massage, especially at work? With the BestOffice Massage Desk Chair, you don’t have to leave your desk to take a relaxing break and loosen your muscles. In addition to comfort features like plush, high-density sponge padding, the vibrating massage can significantly improve muscle fatigue from sitting all day. Available in three different colors, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more affordable massage chair.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 45 - 48” H x 26” W x 30” D
- Ergonomics: Massage feature, seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Adjustability: Backrest tilt, seat height, massage feature, tilt tension
- Color(s): Black, Brown, White
- Seat height: 29.5 inches
- Seat width: 21 inches
- Seat depth: 25 inches
- Price on publish: $89.99 - $119.99 depending on color
What we like:
- Price
- Financing available
- BIFMA certified
What we don’t like:
- Only 90-day warranty
The bottom line:
The affordable BestOffice Massage Desk Chair can help prevent muscle fatigue, especially in your back, as you sit throughout the day.
BestOffice Massage Desk Chair
Most comfortable budget office chair: La-Z-Boy Arcadian Bonded Leather Executive Chair
You’ve probably heard of La-Z Boy chairs and sofas, but did you know they also make office furniture? Backed by a 10-year warranty, the La-Z Boy Arcadian Bonded Leather Executive Chair is one of their most affordable chairs, and boasts a lot of the same features as their most high-end products. The plush layered cushions and padded armrests maximize comfort in a low-profile, compact design, fitting for most home office spaces.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 43.25" - 46.25" H x 28.25" W x 29.5" D
- Ergonomics: Lumbar support, adjustable seat tilt
- Chair weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Adjustability: Seat tilt, tilt lock, lumbar support, seat recline, seat height
- Color(s): Brown, Gray, Black, Blue
- Seat height: N/A
- Seat width: 22.25 inches
- Seat depth: 19 inches
- Price on publish: $199.99 - $269.99 depending on color
What we like:
- GREENGUARD certified
- 10-year warranty
- BIFMA certified
- Upholstered arm pads
What we don’t like:
- Some users experienced problems with the frame and seat holding together
- Full assembly required
The bottom line:
A steal for under $200 (in Black), the La-Z Boy Arcadian Bonded Leather Executive Chair offers plush support, adjustable seat features and a 10-year warranty to outfit your office in long-lasting comfort.
La-Z-Boy Arcadian Bonded Leather Executive Chair, Black (60009)
How we selected the best budget office chairs
We reviewed a selection of online and traditional retailers to make our recommendations for the best budget office chairs, with an emphasis on value, price, ergonomic efficiency and comfort. All of our picks are priced below $400, prioritize financing options, and have transparent warranty and trial periods.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are budget chairs ergonomic?
Yes. Ergonomic chairs are designed to maximize comfort and efficiency in your working environment, and they come in all styles and at all prices.
What is the best cheap office chair for back support?
For affordable back support, we recommend prioritizing lumbar, or lower back support, features. The Modway Task Chair and Flash Furniture Kelista offer such features for under $200. If a new chair isn’t in your budget right now, try a detachable lumbar cushion that you can attach to any chair you already own.
Should your budget office chair have good lumbar or lower back support?
Yes. As there are many budget options that include lumbar support, it’s perfectly reasonable to make it a priority while you’re shopping. Lumbar support is a feature that supports your lower back in a seated position, which helps you maintain the natural curvature of your spine. It’s a feature that promotes long-term health and prevents back pain for anyone who spends a large amount of time sitting.
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