Vision problems, neck pain, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and early breaking & bending of bones — this is what you make yourself susceptible to if you use a poorly designed office chair every day.
Uncomfortable chairs not only lead to long-term health issues but also steal your productivity. I mean, how do you expect your brain to give its 100% when half of your focus is drained by the pain in your back?
So to help you tackle this problem effectively, I’ve compiled a list of the best office chairs in Australia. I’ve included the most comfortable and budget-friendly office chairs that comply with ergonomic standards defined by health experts.
For now, let’s dive into the best office chairs in Australia and help you find a chair that makes your work life 10x more comfortable and productive!
Our Top Choice – ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair
ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic office chair is a perfect blend of ample body support, an economical price tag, and a luxury feel. It is designed for optimal comfort and tailored to suit various body types.
It offers a range of customizable features, which we’ll dive into shortly. All of these features allow users to adjust the chair as per their body measurements, posture, and liking. What’s more, its high-end design and durable material make it a classy addition to your office space.
Top Rated Office Chairs In Australia – Reviews
Office chairs come in a fascinating array of shapes, sizes, and styles. From sleek and minimalistic designs to feature-packed executive chairs, there’s something for everyone.
Now, the general rule of thumb is the more you spend, the more comfortable your seat will be. But the question is — where do you set the bar? How much is too much to be spending on an office chair?
Well, according to my guide here, the max you need to spend is about $750. With this budget, you can buy a chair that provides the BEST value for money and offers the highest level of comfort you can expect from an office chair. I’ve covered all details of such a chair in the first review below.
On the flip side, the minimum you need to spend is $119 and the average you need to spend is $200 – $300. Check out my reviews below to understand how you can justify the price and assess if a chair is actually worth the money.
Note that I’ve included a wide range of office chairs in this guide — to fit the needs of various budgets. So, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or ready to splurge for the ultimate comfort, you’ll definitely find something for your needs.
1. ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair – Best Office Chair Overall
ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Office Chair is loved by both gamers and corporate professionals. The looks, functionality, and comfort of this chair are all top-notch. It costs $749 but easily competes with office chairs priced at $3000 – $3500.
Let’s zoom into its features:
- Lumbar Support: It features 11 points of adjustment and ATLAS lumbar support, which provides a comfortable fit and supports your natural spine curve while sitting. Apart from enhancing comfort, the lumbar support also ensures a good posture.
- Hybrid Mesh: The chair features a 2:1 blend of fabric and polyester, named DuraWeave hybrid mesh. It enhances the breathability, strength, and comfort of the chair. It won’t trap any heat or leave any wet patches on your clothes. And you need not worry about skin imprints — even if you’re sitting for 8-9 hours on the chair!
- Adjustable Armrests: It comes equipped with GyroBrace 5D armrests, which pivot freely and can be adjusted to five different height levels. This is particularly useful for left-handed people or those with very mobile hands.
- Adjustable Headrest: The TriTune 3D headrest offers 11 points of adjustment for the height of the headrest and three for the depth.
- Precision Recline: It comes with TrueTilt technology that allows the user to easily adjust the recline angle and tension. So, you can find the perfect position for napping or working long hours.
Now, although the extensive functionality and customizability options make the chair super comfortable, I found it difficult to get the hang of all its controls at first. It can be an overwhelming experience. But as you find your perfect angles and lock them in place (particularly reclining angle), that worry will subside.
What’s more, the ErgoTune Supreme’s frame is made of high-quality plastic with an aluminum wheelbase. It can support up to 150 kg of weight. So, you won’t experience the sinking feeling that occurs when you fit your frame into chairs made with wishy-washy material. The wheels are also 60 mm PU casters that roll smoothly and silently on most surfaces.
As for the assembly, all the tools needed to assemble the chair are included in the package. I am not an expert or have extensive experience with setting up new office chairs. But, it took me about only thirty to thirty-five minutes to get everything set up.
In terms of looks, it’s minimal and classy and available in three colors including:
- Aqua blue
- Charcoal black
- Coral red
I settled for charcoal black because it syncs with the rest of my workspace. But if you have a light-themed setup or a bold-color setup, you might want to try the other two colors. All of them are subtle shades and look super decent!
Pros
- Hassle-free installation
- 12-years warranty
- Breathable mesh
- Excellent build quality
- Minimal, classy design
Cons
- No locking mechanism in armrests
- Headrest doesn’t lock in place
- Slightly stiff when it comes to extending the chair backward
Verdict
The ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic office chair provides exceptional value for money. As highlighted above, it comes with an impressive range of features for the price tag. The durability and comfort of this chair are unparalleled, while its sleek and elegant design effortlessly enhances any office setting it occupies.
Finding a product that caters to the preferences of all users is a rarity, but this office chair stands out with its extraordinary capacity for personalization and customization. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of users — and this is exactly why it’s my top choice!
2. Alfordson Executive Office Chair – Runner Up
The Alfordson Executive office chair does not come with a 12-year warranty, but it offers a super comfortable experience while it lasts. Now that doesn’t mean the chair has a short life. It comes down to how you use it.
The chair features a triple-layer PU leather seat with resilience foam and a wooden base. If used properly, it can last anywhere between 3 and 5 years. The manufacturing company, i.e., Alfordson also offers a 5-year warranty.
The most noteworthy aspects of this chair are the S-shaped backrest and the soft, comfortable seat. Both provide great support to a range of body types. Note that the seat appears plushy in the product pictures, but in reality, it is a little thin. I appreciate the firmness of the seat, though, as it helps maintain an alert posture.
Apart from that, it comes with the following features:
- Versatility: This chair is designed to accommodate a wide range of body shapes and sizes. Its high back provides solid support, which makes it comfortable for individuals of medium to tall heights.
- Adjustable Seat: The seat height of the chair can be customized. It can be adjusted between 37 and 47 cm and provides flexibility for smaller individuals.
- 360-Degree Swivel: The chair offers a 360-degree swivel function. This makes it easy to maneuver and work in different directions without straining.
- Reclining Feature: A simple lever allows you to recline the seat’s backrest between 90 and 150 degrees. It also includes a lock-in mechanism to secure your preferred reclining position.
- Built-in Lumbar and Back Support: The chair is designed with built-in lumbar and back support. This feature helps alleviate stress on the lower back and promotes good posture.
- Retractable Padded Footrests: The chair includes retractable padded footrests that enhance comfort for relaxation, reading, or watching movies. The footrests can be extended when needed and tucked away when not in use.
- Adequate Armrests: The chair’s armrests have gentle curves and a downward slope, providing reasonable support. However, they are not adjustable, which may be a preference for some individuals. Additionally, the armrests may not offer optimal grip for some users.
The chair also supports up to 150 kg and comes in four different colors. These include:
- Black
- Brown
- Grey
- Pink
Finally, setting up the Alfordson Executive office chair is also pretty easy. It takes about 30 minutes.
Pros
- Super affordable
- Easy to set up
- Supports up to 150 kg
- 5-year warranty
- Versatile design to support different body types
Cons
- Not very aesthetic
- No breathable mesh
Verdict
The Alfordson Executive office chair boasts a straightforward design that focuses on fulfilling its primary function. It may not possess the extensive range of features found in our top-tier selection, but it remains a commendable choice that won’t fail to impress.
It may not also garner much attention for its aesthetics. But the chair’s affordable price makes it an exceptional deal.
3. Flash Furniture Mid-Back Ergonomic Office Chair
Flash Furniture Mid-Back Ergonomic office chair is the typical office chair in terms of looks, but not in terms of feel.
What do I mean by that? Well, it sports the traditional office chair looks with its slightly curved back, short armrests, and a black mesh design.
However, when you sit on it, it won’t feel hard or stiff. Instead, you’ll enjoy firm support (particularly for your lower back) and can conveniently reduce the pressure on your legs using the footrest.
Here are some of its ergonomic features:
- Lumbar Support: The chair features a breathable mesh back that provides support to the lumbar area. It enhances posture and the overall comfort during extended periods of use.
- Padded Flip-Up Arms: The chair is equipped with padded flip-up arms that offer versatility. When the arms are flipped down, they can be used for resting the elbows, promoting better circulation. When flipped up, they create a larger seating area with more room for movement.
- Adjustments: The chair offers several adjustment options for customization. The pneumatic adjustment lever enables easy seat height adjustment according to personal preference. The tilt lock mechanism allows the chair to rock or tilt and can be locked in an upright position. The tilt tension adjustment knob controls the resistance of the chair’s backward tilt.
- Footrest and Base: The chair includes a convenient 360 chrome footrest that reduces pressure on the legs and promotes better circulation. The heavy-duty base is designed with dual caster wheels for enhanced stability and smooth movement.
As for setting it up, this one was rather easy for me and took only 15-18 minutes.
Pros
- 5-year warranty
- Elegant and minimalist design
- Suitable for 8+ hours of use
- Affordable
- Breathable fabric
- Supports up to 130 kg
Cons
- Doesn’t come in many colors
- Not suited for rough and tough usage
Verdict
The Flash Furniture Mid-Back Ergonomic office chair checks most of my boxes. It comes at an affordable price, is simple to put together, and has an appealing design.
However, there have been some doubts regarding its durability. If this aspect is not a dealbreaker for you or if you seek a temporary option until you acquire your ideal chair, this chair could be a suitable choice.
4. Artiss Mid Back Gaming Office Chair
Similar to the office chair reviewed above, the Artiss Mid Back Gaming office chair vibes corporate too. It’s an elegant pick for contemporary workspaces. Plus, I loved it because it offers phenomenal value at $119.
Here are some of my favorite comfort-related features:
- High Back Support: The chair provides high back support, which ensures proper alignment and reduces strain on the upper back and shoulders.
- Tilt Adjustment: The tilt adjustment feature allows you to recline the backrest to your preferred angle for enhanced comfort and relaxation.
- Gas Lift Height Adjustment: The chair’s gas lift mechanism enables easy height adjustment. It’s good for people of all heights.
- 360-Degree Rotation Seat: The seat is rotatable 360 degrees, which allows you to easily change direction and face any angle without strain or the need to reposition the chair.
- Built-in Rack: The chair includes a chrome-finished rack at the back. It serves as a convenient place to hang ties, scarves, or other such items.
- Removable Padded Armrests: The armrests are padded and can be removed if desired. This makes the chair versatile and customizable.
What’s more, the chair features a stylish chromed base. It adds a sleek and modern touch to its overall appearance. The manufacturer also offers a 5-year warranty, along with an SGS-verified gas lift. This ensures long-lasting performance and stability.
The seat itself is wide and spacious. However, it’s not too soft or plushy, which means it’s not recommended for work sessions lasting longer than 3 hours at a time.
Pros
- 5-year warranty
- 10-minute installation process
- Super smooth wheels, easy gliding
- Complete spine support
- Jerk free
- Supports up to 120 kg
Cons
- Lacks a plushy seat
- No other color except black
Verdict
The Artiss Mid-Back office chair strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. It’s not feature-packed like other office chairs in this list and it cannot be used as a gaming chair. However, it’s minimalistic and serves brilliantly for 3-4 hours long work sessions.
5. Auselect – Best Office Gaming Chair
Here comes the chair of ultimate comfort – the Auselect Ergonomic Office Gaming Chair. It’s not the cheapest option on this list but if you’re willing to spend lavishly on your comfort, you won’t regret this purchase.
At a glance, the chair appears bulky and heavy. The shape and structure of this chair resemble a typical gaming chair. However, the material and color used for its manufacturing make it an appropriate pick for office settings too.
Here are the comfort features you need to know:
- Massage Lumbar Pillow with USB Port: The chair includes a lumbar pillow with a massage function, powered by a USB port. This feature helps alleviate back pain and reduce fatigue.
- Adjustable Recline and Footrest: The chair’s backrest can recline from 90 degrees to 155 degrees. It allows the user to find their preferred sitting position. Plus, there is a retractable footrest that provides a relaxed and comfortable experience similar to sleeping in a bed.
- Detachable Headrest and Lumbar Support Pillows: The chair comes with adjustable and detachable headrest and lumbar support pillows. These pillows offer multi-point support, helping disperse spine and body pressure and ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic posture during gaming and work sessions.
- Extensive Adjustability: It offers a 90° to 155° reclining backrest, a retractable footrest, a 360° swivel, height adjustment, and a rocking feature. The 2D armrests are adjustable in various directions for added comfort.
The chair also features a strong and sturdy structure. It comes with an integrated metal frame and a 5-point heavy-duty anti-rollover wheelbase. This means you can glide around your workspace without a single scratch on the floor. What’s more, there’s a safety lock to prevent overturning. It is also certified by SGS and BIFMA and can support a maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs.
Pros
- Waterproof leather
- Plushy seats
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Luxurious looks and comfort
- Suitable for 10+ hours of usage
- Supports up to 120 kg
Cons
- Slightly difficult to set up
Verdict
As mentioned earlier, the Auselect Office Gaming Chair offers exceptional value for money. It’s a two-in-one combo. And I’d particularly recommend this office chair to those working from home on their jobs and side hustles.
It’s also worth noting that this chair will conveniently last 7+ years even with extensive and rough usage. The manufacturer provides a guarantee of 5 years.
6. HQ-Gaming Office Massage Chair
The HQ-Gaming Office Massage Chair is primarily a gaming chair. But you can use it for the office too. I’ve included it in this list because it offers an insane amount of comfort while sitting — for only $119.
Here’s a glimpse of its top features:
- Adjustable armrests
- 135-degree back reclining
- 360-degree rotating movement with smooth wheels
- Padded armrests
- Up and down adjustability
- U-shaped headrest
- Movable back massage
The shape of this chair fits all body types perfectly. When you sit on this chair, you’ll feel the back of the chair adjusting to your back. Well, not exactly – but that’s the kind of fit and support it provides.
The lower back of the chair also features a massage feature. Moreover, the detachable and adjustable U-shape headrest and an extra-large lumbar cushion provide optimal support to alleviate fatigue and promote a healthy posture.
You can get this chair in blue, pink, red, and black.
In terms of durability, although the manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty, I don’t think it will last that long. The faux leather of this chair is not waterproof or scratch-resistant.
Pros
- Supports up to 180 kg
- 20-minute setup process
- Available in multiple colors
- 5-years warranty
Cons
- The armrests are a bit uncomfortable
- Requires maintenance and care
Verdict
The HQ-Gaming Office Massage chair is a convenient and comfortable choice that is also budget-friendly. It is easy to assemble and offers a high level of comfort. But it’s worth noting that the upholstery requires regular cleaning.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Office Chairs in Australia
Finding the perfect office chair isn’t a matter of luck. It’s all about how well-aware you are of all the existing options and your needs.
On that note, I’ve compiled a super comprehensive buying guide below. It lists all the factors you must consider to find the chair you truly need.
How To Choose The Best Office Chair?
It’s best to physically check out and try out your options before settling for an office chair. But if you’re shopping online, make sure to read in-depth reviews about your preferred chairs.
In either case, assess the following features for all office chairs that interest you.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Opt for an office chair with ergonomic design features, including the following:
- Adjustable Height: Check if the chair offers height adjustability. An ideal office chair should allow you to adjust the seat height to ensure your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. This promotes proper blood circulation and prevents strain on the legs.
- Seat Depth and Width: Consider the seat dimensions, particularly the depth and width. A comfortable office chair should have sufficient seat depth to support your thighs without exerting pressure on the back of your knees. The width should accommodate your body size without feeling too restrictive.
- Lumbar Support: Look for a chair that provides adequate lumbar support. Proper lumbar support helps maintain the natural curve of your lower back and prevents slouching.
- Armrests: Check if the chair has adjustable armrests. Ideally, the armrests should be at a height that allows your arms to rest comfortably. If it’s built right, your shoulders are relaxed and not elevated, and you don’t experience shoulder and neck strain.
These features can reduce the risk of discomfort or injuries caused by prolonged sitting.
Durability
Next, examine a chair for its build quality and construction materials. Opt for chairs made from sturdy materials that can withstand regular use.
Most importantly, consider the chair’s upholstery material and cushioning. The cushioning should provide adequate support and comfort without feeling too firm or too soft. Plus, look for breathable fabrics or mesh that promote air circulation to prevent excessive sweating.
Remember, do not rely solely on the product description to assess durability. Read customer reviews or check the manufacturer’s reputation for quality assurance. A reputable and reliable manufacturer will always offer a warranty for the product and/or customer support.
Wheels
Lastly, assess the chair’s mobility features. A quality office chair should have smooth-rolling casters that allow for easy movement and accessibility. A chair that can swivel 360 degrees for effortless maneuvering around your workspace is definitely a great pick!
How Do We Test The Best Office Chairs?
We aim to recommend office chairs that guarantee the comfort and safety of users who spend a significant amount of their time seated. For that reason, our testing process involves rigorous quality checks to ensure we select chairs that meet our standards.
We tested each chair independently, taking into account the estimated needs of a person weighing up to 110 kg and sitting for approximately 8 hours per day. We assessed various components of the chair and applied forces to simulate both typical usage and potential misuse.
So, all of our best picks are capable of supporting heavy loads, providing stability, and meeting basic ergonomic requirements. We also recommend considering the importance of proper ergonomics for standing desks.
Different Types Of Ergonomic Office Chairs
Here are some types of ergonomic chairs that cater to various postures:
- Traditional Chairs: These are standard office chairs that offer adjustable features such as seat height, backrest angle, and armrest height. They provide versatility to accommodate different user preferences and promote better ergonomics.
- Kneeling Chairs: Kneeling chairs have a unique design that promotes an open hip angle and encourages an upright posture. They feature a sloping seat and knee pads. Using this structure, these chairs redistribute the body’s weight and reduce strain on the lower back.
- Saddle Chairs: Saddle chairs resemble horse saddles. They allow the user to sit with their legs apart in a straddling position. This posture promotes a natural curve in the spine and provides better support for the hips and pelvis.
What Is An AFRDI-Approved Chair?
Australian Furniture Research and Development Institute (AFRDI)-approved chairs have undergone testing based on the Australian New Zealand Standard. This standard incorporates European-based guidelines to ensure that chairs are robust, durable, safe, and ergonomic. The examination assesses the comfort of the chair during prolonged use.
Frequently-Asked Questions About The Best Office Chairs in Australia
Does An Office Chair Make A Difference?
Yes, an office chair makes a lot of difference in your work life. These chairs are designed to support your body and help maintain the right posture. However, if your office chair does not fulfill your body’s needs, there will be no benefit of buying one.
Is An Expensive Office Chair Worth It?
Yes, an expensive office chair usually lasts longer than cheaper options. So, even though you won’t be saving money at the time of purchase, you will save it in the long run.
How Much Should I Spend On A Good Chair?
It depends on what qualifies as a good chair for you.
If you’re looking for a comfortable chair that lasts considerably long, a range of $200 to $400 is good. But, if you’re looking for a more robust and feature-packed option, then a price of $950+ is worth it.
How Long Do Most Office Chairs Last?
Generally, office chairs are very durable and last for 7 to 8 years.
But, if it is being used roughly, a chair will wear down faster and become unusable within 5 years. So, it’s essential to take care of your office chair and maintain it regularly.
Final Thoughts
Office chairs play an important part in our work life. Whether it is you or your team, the type of office chair you use will affect the overall work quality and productivity.
But finding the best office chair isn’t an easy task. You need to consider the type, features, durability, comfort, and much more.
In today’s article, I’ve discussed all about selecting the best office chair and reviewed the best options currently available in the Australian market. I hope this helps you choose your next office chair.