OFFICE & ERGONOMICS · GUIDE
7 Office Chair Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Most chair regret comes down to a handful of avoidable mistakes. Here they are, with the fix for each.
After helping thousands of readers choose chairs, we see the same mistakes again and again. Avoid these seven and you'll be happy with your purchase for years.
1. Buying on looks alone
A sleek chair that doesn't adjust will betray you by mid-afternoon. Prioritise ergonomics over aesthetics.
2. Ignoring lumbar adjustment
A fixed lumbar that doesn't meet your back's curve is worse than none. Insist on adjustable support.
3. Overlooking size and capacity
Chairs have size ranges and weight limits. Taller and heavier users should check both rather than assume one size fits all.
4. Skipping arm adjustment
Fixed arms force your shoulders up or your wrists down. Height- and width-adjustable arms keep you neutral.
5. Forgetting seat depth
Too-deep seats press behind the knees and cut circulation. Look for adjustable depth or a seat that fits your leg length.
6. Assuming pricier is always better
Plenty of $300–$550 chairs deliver excellent ergonomics. Beyond that you pay for materials and warranty, not better posture.
7. Not setting it up
Even the best chair needs ten minutes of adjustment. Set height, lumbar, arms and depth, then fine-tune over a week.
Frequently asked questions
What's the biggest mistake when buying a chair?+
Choosing for looks over adjustability — especially skipping adjustable lumbar support.
Do I need to spend a lot to avoid these mistakes?+
No. A well-chosen $300–$550 chair avoids every mistake here if it has the right adjustments.
Senior Editor — Office & Ergonomics
Maya has tested ergonomic furniture for nine years and previously wrote for an office-design trade publication. She has assembled and sat in more than 200 chairs.
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