Best Office Chair Tier List: Top Ergonomic Picks for Every Budget
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Best Office Chair Tier List: Top Ergonomic Picks for Every Budget

|Feb 24, 2025
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If there is one thing you cannot afford to get wrong when furnishing your office, it is your chair. That is why you need to take a look at this comprehensive office chair tier list covering some of the best buys.

During those long summer weeks when you have to spend so much time sitting behind your desk, you will be glad that you took the time to pick out the perfect office chair for your needs.

These days, the buzzword in the office furniture industry is ergonomics. Everyone is talking about the need to take good care of your lower back while making sure you work as productively as possible.

However, such chairs that are loaded with tons of ergonomic features can be quite expensive. If you are on a tight budget, you may find it difficult to find a good chair that is both ergonomic and does not cost an arm and a leg.

To make life easier for you, I decided to sit down and do a bit of research to see what kind of ergonomic chairs are available at different price points. What I found out was very interesting. It seems that even with less than $200 in your pocket, you can get your hands on a great ergonomic chair loaded with special features. This article will look at great chairs that have been making headlines. Read on to find out more.

Quick Comparison

With so many office chairs on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one fits your needs. Whether you prioritize ergonomic support, plush comfort, or sleek aesthetics, this quick comparison table breaks down the best options across different price points.

From budget-friendly picks that still offer solid back support to high-end ergonomic chairs designed for all-day comfort, this list highlights key differences in support, comfort, and style to help you make an informed choice.

Here’s a snapshot of what each chair brings to the table:

Chair Name

Price

Support

Comfort

Style

Ticova Ergonomic

<$200

Adjustable lumbar, deep recline

Cushioned seat, flexible positioning

Basic design

Flash Furniture Kelista

<$200

Mid-back support, flip-up arms

Padded seat, decent ergonomics

Multiple color options

ErgoChair Pro

<$1000

Adjustable lumbar, 5 recline positions

Breathable mesh, customizable fit

Modern & sleek

ErgoChair Mesh

<$1000

Adaptive mesh back, 22° tilt

Good airflow, ergonomic seat depth

Minimalist & professional

ErgoChair Ultra 2

<$1000

TPE adaptive backrest, 4D armrests

Highly adjustable, pressure relief

High-end, futuristic

Haworth Soji

<$1000

Effective lumbar support

Well-cushioned seat

Simple & stylish

Steelcase Amia

$1041

LiveLumbar support, 4-way armrests

Plush seat, ergonomic flexibility

Classic Steelcase look

Steelcase Leap V2

$1997

Flexible backrest, dynamic lumbar support

High adjustability, soft padding

Versatile & premium

Haworth Fern

$1242

Digital-knit backrest, aggressive lumbar

Comfortable for long hours

Bold & eye-catching

Steelcase Karman

$1072

Mesh seat with added padding

Lightweight, breathable

Luxury & modern

While this table gives a high-level overview, there’s a lot more to each of these chairs. Let’s dive deeper into the features, pros, and real user experiences to help you find the perfect office chair for your workspace.

The Best Office Chairs Under $500

Without further delay, let us dive into my best office chair tier list and see which of these chairs has your name on it. We will start with the cheaper options and work our way up to some of the most expensive office chairs on the market.

If you are on a tight budget, you can easily find yourself struggling to buy a good chair for your office. However, after a lot of research, I was able to find the following affordable office chairs that still manage to deliver when it comes to ergonomics and comfort.

1. Ticova Ergonomic

In the lower price bracket, there is always a risk that you will come across some poorly designed and cheap-looking chairs. However, that is not the case with the Ticova Ergonomic. This chair surprised me in a lot of ways.

Features

One of the first things I noticed about the Ticova Ergonomic is that it is a chair that seems to be built exclusively for comfort. If you are looking for something that will still feel great even at the end of a long day, you should try this one.

Its design features include a deep recline that is perfect for stretching out after hours seated behind a desk. Most chairs that you find in this price range do not usually come with functions such as this.

The Ticova Ergonomic also allows a lot of adjustments, which is great for accommodating people of different sizes. It also allows you to switch positions when you feel that your body needs a break.

However, when it comes to the quality of materials that were used to make this chair, I was not very impressed. I felt that the manufacturers could have tried a bit harder to select better-quality upholstery.

Also, because of the poor material, the warranty is not that great. If you buy this chair, you will have to hope that nothing major goes wrong in the future because you will not be able to return it to the supplier. This takes away a little bit from the joy of finding such an affordable chair.

Why We Love This Chair

If I had to pick one thing that is great about the Ticova Ergonomic, it has to be the awesome comfort that it gives, especially in recline mode. When all you want is a chair that you will enjoy sitting in all day, this is a great option.

Ticova Ergonomic office chair tier list

2. Flash Furniture Kelista

Right off the bat, you need to know that the Kelista Mid-back Drafting chair from Flash Furniture can cost a bit over $200 at times. However, I got it on sale for much less, and it proved to be quite a bargain.

Features

Modern office décor is no longer shying away from bold color choices. This is why the many options available for the Kelista Mid-back Drafting chair immediately caught my eye. Also, it is a chair that you can put almost anywhere without worrying about how it will blend in with the color of your walls.

Its features are also highly adjustable. Speaking as a person who works in an office filled with people of all shapes and sizes, I can safely say that this is a great feature to have. A large person can easily use the same Kelista Mid-back Drafting chair as someone much smaller by simply making a few adjustments.

The seat has a lot of additional padding, which relieves pressure from your bottom even after hours of sitting. Also, the armrests are designed to easily flip up when you need to get them out of the way. This allows you to adopt a more natural position if you have to sit very close to your desk while typing.

Why We Love This Chair

The freedom that comes from being able to pick any color that you want is wonderful. You can even find some colors that are similar to your brand’s logo, in some cases.

Flash Furniture Kelista Mid-back Drafting Chair

3. ErgoChair Pro

The ErgoChair Pro has always been a fan favorite in my office. After taking it for a spin, I can see why so many people love this chair.

Features

Designed as an ergonomic chair for back pain, the ErgoChair Pro comes with adjustable lumbar support that allows multiple seated positions. With just a few tweaks of your chair, you can perfectly position yourself to support your lower back while you work.

A smooth recline with up to five lockable positions makes the ErgoChair Pro a wonderful chair to sit in for anyone stuck behind their desk most of the day. Any time you get a free moment you can just flip the chair back and relax a bit.

Many of its other features are adjustable too, including the height, armrest, headrest, backrest, and seat tilt. This makes it a versatile option suitable for shared offices. The upholstery is made from 100% earth-friendly materials.

As a person who lives and works in a very hot and humid climate, I was very glad to experience the extra airflow I got from the woven mesh back. Such breathability means I no longer have to worry about sweating through my clothes while at work.

Autonomous ErgoChair Pro

Autonomous ErgoChair Pro

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon3081 reviews

Dimensions29”L x 29”W x 46” - 50”H
Seat dimensions20”L x 20”W
Seat height18” - 20”
Back dimensions (w/o headrest)21”W x 22”H
Back dimensions (with headrest)21”W x 28” - 31”H
Tilt range22°
Armrest height11” - 14”
Armrest height (from the floor)26.7” - 32.2”
Caster wheel diameter2.36 inches
Number of caster wheels5 pieces
MaterialsPolyester fabric with molded foam interior and durable nylon plastic frame; PU handrest pads.
ColorsCool Gray, Evergreen, All Black
Red Apple, Black & White, Baby Blue
Weight capacity300 lbs
Item weight48.5 lbs
Shipping dimensions29”L x 27”W x 19”H x 67 lbs
Assembly requiredYes
Warranty2 years
Free returns30 days
The trial and return policy does NOT apply to products on sale.
AdjustabilityHeadrest, armrest, back tilt angle and tension, seat tilt and height.
 

Why We Love This Chair

A true ergonomic chair needs to have proper lumbar support, and this is something the ErgoChair Pro excels in. When sitting in this chair, you can rest assured that your lower back is well looked after.

The Best Office Chairs from $500 - $1000

At a cost of at least $501, the office chairs ranked in this category can be considered as premium options. With such a high price tag, it pays to know exactly what you are getting for your money. Here is a brief look at three popular options:

1. ErgoChair Mesh

If you’re looking for a solid ergonomic chair in the $500 - $1000 range, the ErgoChair Mesh is an excellent contender. It offers a balance of comfort, breathability, and adjustability that makes it perfect for long hours at your desk.

Features

The ErgoChair Mesh is designed with a breathable German mesh backrest, keeping you cool throughout the workday. Unlike traditional office chairs that trap heat, this mesh chair allows for consistent airflow, making it ideal for those who tend to run hot or work in warmer climates.

It also supports a healthy posture with a 22-degree tilt range and an adjustable seat depth (18” - 20”), letting you customize your sitting position. The armrests adjust between 11” - 14” in height, helping you find the perfect position to keep your shoulders relaxed.

Another highlight is its 300-pound weight capacity, making it sturdy enough for a wide range of users. Its seat height adjusts between 18.5” and 21.5”, ensuring you can align it properly with your desk for the best ergonomic fit.

ErgoChair Mesh

ErgoChair Mesh

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon68 reviews

Dimensions28.5”L x 28.5”W x 45.5” - 52”H
Seat dimensions19”L x 19”W
Seat depth range18” - 20”
Seat height18.5” - 21.5”
Back dimensions (w/o headrest)21”W x 22”H
Back dimensions (with headrest)21”W x 28” - 31”H
Tilt range22°
Armrest height11” - 14”
Armrest height (from the floor)26.7” - 32.2”
Caster wheel diameter2.36 inches
Number of caster wheels5 pieces
MaterialsSpecial German mesh (72% polyester, 28% polyamide)
ColorsCool Gray, Black
Weight capacity300 lbs
Item weight48.5 lbs
 

Why We Love This Chair

The ErgoChair Mesh is an incredible choice if you value breathability and comfort in your office chair. The mesh back provides excellent airflow, and its ergonomic features—like adjustable seat depth and recline—help keep you comfortable even during long workdays.

It’s also available in two sleek colors, Cool Gray and Black, making it easy to fit into any office aesthetic.

2. ErgoChair Ultra 2

For those looking for a truly premium ergonomic office chair, the ErgoChair Ultra 2 is a top-tier option. It brings a sleek design, superior adjustability, and high-end materials that justify its price tag.

Features

One of the standout features of the ErgoChair Ultra 2 is its TPE backrest, which is designed to provide adaptive support while maintaining breathability. Unlike traditional mesh or foam backrests, the 100% TPE structure conforms to your movements, offering a dynamic sitting experience that helps reduce back strain over time.

The adjustability on this chair is impressive. It allows you to tweak multiple aspects of your sitting posture, including:

  • Seat height (18” - 23”) to match different desk heights
  • Seat depth (18” - 20.5”) for personalized comfort
  • Tilt range of 25 degrees with adjustable tension control
  • Adjustable headrest (8” - 12”) for enhanced neck support
  • 4D adjustable armrests (7” - 11”), letting you position your arms for the perfect fit

It’s also built to last with an aluminum base, ABS plastic frame, and polyester fabric upholstery. The weight capacity is 320 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of users.

Why We Love This Chair

The ErgoChair Ultra 2 is designed for people who want the best possible support while working long hours. Its combination of high-end materials, multiple adjustment options, and premium build quality makes it one of the best office chairs for long hours in this price range.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a comfortable office chair with a headrest, the ErgoChair Ultra 2 delivers excellent neck and head support—a key feature found in many office chairs with headrests designed for ergonomic comfort.

It’s also available in Onyx Black and Dover Gray, ensuring it fits seamlessly into any modern workspace. Plus, with a 2-year warranty and 30-day free returns, you can be confident in your investment.

3. Haworth Soji

Elegance meets functionality with this awesome ergonomic office chair. The Haworth Soji has everything you need in a chair as a regular, desk-bound employee.

Features

This is one of those chairs that seems to demonstrate that, sometimes, simplicity is the best option. The Haworth Soji does not have any over-the-top styling that we sometimes see in modern office chairs. Instead, it sticks to the basics and manages to pull it off beautifully.

Apart from its great aesthetics, one of the things you will love about this chair is that it is genuinely built for comfort and support. It has awesome lumbar support that allows you to sit comfortably in it for many hours without feeling the strain on your body.

If you happen to be sharing the chair with other people, you will love how easily you can adjust it to your exact size whenever you need to. All this combined makes the Haworth Soji a great buy for any office worker.

Why We Love This Chair

Everyone loves a good-looking chair, and the Haworth Soji is certainly one of them. It would look great sitting in any office.

The Best Office Chairs above $1000

Finally, the last group of chairs in our review concerns those that cost more than $1,000. We will look at three options briefly to conclude the best office chair tier list.

1. Steelcase Amia

Lastly, our list of great office chairs under $1,000 brings us to a chair that deserves a lot more praise than it sometimes gets. The Amia Office Chair from Steelcase is worth every cent you will pay for it.

Features

A brand new Amia Office Chair will cost you just under $1,000, while a refurbished one will cost $519 from Steelcase. If you want to save a bit extra, go for the refurbished option because it is still a great chair to buy.

Its unique LiveLumbar support feature is designed to adapt to your needs and support your lower back even as you sit in it. This makes it a great option because you are guaranteed full support even if you move around a lot.

With 4-way adjustable arms, you will have all the freedom of movement you need. The chair also comes with different tiers of comfort to suit the requirements of a wide range of workers.

Why We Love This Chair

The refurbished option, which is much cheaper, still manages to deliver in a lot of ways when it comes to ergonomics. This makes it excellent value for money.

2. Steelcase Leap V2

The Leap V2 from Steelcase is an expensive piece of furniture ($1997), but it also has the features and looks to back up its high price.

Features

Out of all the office chairs to buy on this list, it is the Leap V2 that seems specifically built to suit a wide range of people. This awesome chair will be a great addition to any shared office where workers regularly sit behind each other's desks.

The seat and back are designed to be as flexible as possible, which is great if the office has both large and small people. No matter how many adjustments you make, the chair also retains its superior lumbar support, making it a good ergonomic option for health-conscious individuals.

Why We Love This Chair

I always love it when a chair can be versatile enough to suit the needs of a wide range of people, and the Leap V2 does this very well.

3. Haworth Fern

If this review was only based on striking looks, the Haworth Fern could certainly be a contender for the top spot. It also has some great ergonomic features too.

Features

The chair that I reviewed was covered in a strikingly beautiful orange upholstery. While you may be able to go for other colors, this is certainly the one I would choose for my office. It is such a great-looking chair and an absolute pleasure to own.

Also, its digital-knit backrest makes it worth all the money that it will cost you to get one of these in your office. The chair is quite flexible, which is great when it comes to comfort and freedom of movement. It even comes with fully adjustable armrests as part of the package.

If you are wondering about ergonomics, you will love the aggressive lumbar support this chair has. It is a perfect buy for anyone who already has lower back pain and is looking for a viable solution.

Why We Love This Chair

A chair that can make a statement just by sitting behind your desk is a worthy buy for anyone. If you get this chair in its orange color, it will certainly be the centerpiece of your office.

4. Steelcase Karman

The last item on our ergonomic chair tier list is the amazing Karman from Steelcase. If I were playing around with a flexible budget, this is one of the chairs I would have my eye on.

Features

When looking at it, it’s hard to believe that this great chair costs $1,100. It seems as though it should go for a lot more than that. It has the elegance of an executive office and robust furniture designed for an open-plan setting. Its white and bronze styling is certainly something worth paying top dollar for.

The chair comes with a mesh seat and added padding that combine to provide extra airflow and comfort. That means you can remain cool even while enjoying the plush seats that shape your body.

If you buy this chair and decide it's not really what you wanted in the first place, you get a free return opportunity. This is evidence of how highly the Karman is thought of by its manufacturers and suppliers.

Why We Love This Chair

I love a chair that I can put in any type of office knowing that it will look great sitting there. The Karman will add a bit of class to all of its surroundings.

Steelcase Karman - office chair tier list

Our Top Pick – ErgoChair Pro (The #1 Office Chair)

After going through some of the best office chairs available in different price ranges, one thing is clear—there are plenty of fantastic ergonomic options to choose from. However, if I had to pick just one chair that stands out above the rest, the ErgoChair Pro takes the crown.

This chair ticks all the right boxes when it comes to ergonomics, adjustability, and comfort. Whether you need strong lumbar support, a smooth reclining function, or a breathable mesh back to keep you cool, the ErgoChair Pro delivers on all fronts. It’s designed to accommodate different body types and working styles, making it an excellent choice for anyone who spends long hours at their desk.

If you’re unsure about finding the right chair size, understanding office chair dimensions can help you pick the best fit for your workspace. Similarly, knowing how to adjust your chair properly is key to maintaining good posture—learn more about the ideal office chair height for your desk setup.

On top of that, the ErgoChair Pro has a sleek, modern design that fits effortlessly into any workspace. If you’re new to ergonomic seating, you might be wondering, what is an ergonomic chair? This chair is a prime example, offering the perfect balance of quality, comfort, and value for anyone looking to upgrade their office setup.

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