Don't worry, the best budget office chairs aren't going to ruin your back. While there are many expensive and supremely comfortable office chairs out there, many of the more modestly priced options offer surprisingly high levels of comfort and support, come with a range of features, and even look the part, too. And I've picked the very best having used and reviewed them all for multiple weeks and months.
✅ We are solely focused on what creatives need
✅ Chairs tested over extended periods of time
✅ We consult actual creative pros
✅ Prices regularly checked
Got a bit more money to spend? Our list of the best office chairs for back pain features seats that cost a little more, but offer sophisticated ergonomic features for even better comfort and support. Otherwise, read on for my top budget office chair buys.
Beren is our regular chair tester, and most of the chairs that pass through our office come under his evaluative eye. As Ecom Editor, he's focused on helping creatives find the right tools for them – and that includes the right seat, whether the most premium ergonomic or the best value budget chair.
Quick list
We're fans of the cheap yet great value chairs that Sihoo produce, and there is no better option than the M18. It is the perfect combination of style, quality and comfort, all for a super-reasonable price – a price which is often lowered in sales. It's simply the best budget option out there right now.
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In a class of its own in this price bracket, the Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro is an ergonomic office chair that offers superior adjustability to suit all body types – and it's a great one for the price, too. I'd recommend this to basically anyone.
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This is where quality and design ramps up. The ErgoChair takes the skeletal back support idea from the Herman Miller Embody, and runs with it. It's super comfortable and a lot more design on show than the standard mesh. It's also the chair chosen by Apple for its workers, apparently.
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Though Boulies specialises in gaming chairs, they went subtle on the usual gaming aesthetic, and low on the asking price, for the fantastic EP200. It's a classy chair with lumbar support, and light, easy movement, that's very comfortable to sit on.
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This clever chair isn't a chair at all – it's an ergonomic rocking stool designed to combat sedentary sitting by forcing you to make micro-movements throughout the working day. It won't be for everyone, but we like it.
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The best budget office chair
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Best under $200
✅ You're on a tight budget: At under $200, it offers exceptional value for money.
✅ You prioritise comfort: The W-shaped seat and responsive mesh back provide all-day support.
✅ You need adjustability: This chair features adjustable lumbar support, headrest and armrests.
❌ You want a fully assembled chair: The M18 requires about 25 minutes of self-assembly.
❌ You're after premium materials: While well-designed, it still uses budget-friendly plastics and mesh.
🔎 The Sihoo M18 is a budget-friendly ergonomic chair that punches well above its weight. It offers comfort, style, and adjustability typically found in much pricier models, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. ★★★★★
Need to Know: The Sihoo M18 is a budget ergonomic office chair that offers exceptional value. Released in 2024, it's designed to provide ergonomic support for long working hours, featuring a mesh back for ventilation, a contoured seat for comfort, and adjustable elements to suit various body types. One of the most notable aspects of the M18 is its weight capacity of 150kg. This, combined with its sturdy construction, suggests that Sihoo has prioritised durability and longevity.
Design: The Sihoo M18 breaks away from the typically uninspired aesthetics of budget office chairs with a sleek, modern design. The chair features a slim profile with clean lines, avoiding the bulky appearance often associated with ergonomic chairs. The grey mesh back panel is framed by a thin black bezel, creating a subtle yet visually appealing contrast.
However, it's worth noting that the low price does come with some trade-offs. The chair requires self-assembly, which may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, while the materials used are of good quality for the price range, they don't match the premium feel of more expensive chairs.
Comfort: Despite its affordable price point, the Sihoo M18 doesn't compromise on comfort. The chair's W-shaped seat cushion is a standout feature, providing ample support for the user's legs and buttocks. The foam used in the seat maintains its shape and comfort even after extended use, which is crucial for those spending long hours at their desk.
Price: Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Sihoo M18 is its price point. With a retail price of around $300, but often available for significantly less (as low as $129 on some platforms), the M18 offers exceptional value for money. It provides features and comfort levels typically found in chairs costing two to three times as much.
"I don't give five-star reviews of chairs lightly. But the Sihoo M18 has forced my hand. It offers comfort, easy cool design, decent ergonomics and all for under $200 – Sihoo has struck gold with the M18."
Best under $400
✅ You want ergonomic comfort: This is a superbly well-designed chair for overall support.
✅ You need adjustability: This chair offers 14 ergonomic adjustments, 5-way armrests, and a padded, two-way lumbar support.
✅ You want a fair few colour options: As well as the Mineral option pictured, there's also Black, Shore and Boulder.
❌ You dislike self-assembly: While it's not as labour-intensive as Sihoo, some assembly is required.
🔎 The Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro is a triumph. If you'll forgive me for gushing over what is, in a very real sense, a chair, Branch has played an absolute blinder with this highly adjustable, ergonomically sound office chair – that's also very affordable. ★★★★★
Need to Know: The Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro may sit in the mid-range in terms of price, but personally I feel it punches above its weight. It offers a huge level of adjustability, its lumbar support is sound, and there are even extra options like a taller cylinder for those of above-average height. I came away really impressed – and at this price, I think you will too.
Design: The first thing that will strike you about the Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro is that it is really rather chic and looks more expensive than it is. Well, okay, technically the first thing that'll strike you is the fact that you'll have to put it together yourself, but once that's done (and it's pretty painless) you'll have a stylish office chair on your hands.
The standout design element is undoubtedly the huge degree of adjustability on offer. No matter your size and proportions, you'll likely be able to get this chair to a state where it's providing you with both comfort and ergonomic support. It's never overwhelming, but if you want it, it's there. Colour options are multifarious provided you like grey, black or brown – specific shades vary depending on whether you go with mesh, leather or vegan leather.
Comfort: Brilliant. I found myself truly impressed by the Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro, especially once I'd taken the time to adjust it to my specific needs. It's one of the most adjustable chairs I've ever reviewed, and over a period of months, I found myself marvelling at just how consistently comfortable it was.
Price: Absolutely dominating the mid-range market, this is far and away the best value you'll get for less than $400 in the world of office chairs. Sure, Sihoo is cheaper. Sure, Herman Miller is more fancy. But Branch offers a superlative combination of the two that's frankly, pretty hard to resist. Provided it meets your budget, this is my office chair recommendation to basically anyone.
"With unparalleled adjustability, the Branch Ergonomic Chair Pro is one of the most impressive ergonomic chairs I've ever tried – at a great price, too."
Best under $500
✅ You want a stylish, modern design: The skeletal back and colour options make it stand out.
✅ You prefer a firm yet comfortable seat: It hits a sweet spot between support and comfort.
✅ You value agility: It's lightweight and easy to move around your workspace.
❌ You need top-tier lumbar support: The back support is decent but not exceptional.
❌ You want premium build quality: Some parts, like the armrests, feel a bit flimsy.
🔎 The ErgoChair Plus offers a fresh take on ergonomic design with its skeletal back structure and vibrant colour options. It provides good comfort and adjustability at a mid-range price point, making it a solid choice for those who want style and functionality. ★★★★
Need to know: The ErgoChair Plus is a mid-range office chair that has gained attention for its unique design and alleged popularity among Apple employees. Released by Autonomous, this chair aims to bridge the gap between high-end ergonomic chairs and more affordable options. It features a distinctive skeletal back structure reminiscent of the Herman Miller Aeron, but at a fraction of the price.
Design: The ErgoChair Plus stands out in the crowded office chair market with its unique and modern design. The skeletal back structure is not just functional but also serves as a key visual element, giving the chair a distinctive look. The chair's overall aesthetic is clean and minimalist, with a touch of playfulness added by the colour options available.
The chair's base and frame have a chunky, substantial appearance that contrasts nicely with its lightweight nature. This visual juxtaposition adds to the chair's character, making it feel both sturdy and agile. The curved top of the backrest and the blocky base contribute to the chair's modern, slightly futuristic appearance.
Comfort: The ErgoChair Plus offers a comfortable seating experience that balances firmness and support. The skeletal back and seat structure, made of a flexible plastic material, provides responsive support that adapts to your movements. This design allows for a degree of give without sacrificing overall support, creating a comfortable seating experience for extended periods.
However, it's worth noting that the lumbar support, while present, is not as pronounced or adjustable as we might prefer. For those with specific back support needs, this could be a potential drawback.
Price: The ErgoChair Plus is positioned in the mid-range of the office chair market, with pricing that reflects its blend of design, comfort, and features. The version with fabric mesh over the skeletal structure is priced at around $449, while the version without the fabric can be purchased for $399.
"It has all the movement that you'd expect from an office chair, it looks cooler than the majority of the competition, and it won't break the bank. In my eyes, it's a winner that I will definitely be holding on to."
Best gaming chair under $300
✅ You want supreme comfort: The memory foam and ergonomic design provide excellent support.
✅ You appreciate stylish gaming aesthetics: Its sleek look is less garish than typical gaming chairs.
✅ You value premium materials: High-quality components mean durability and comfort.
❌ You want super adjustable arm rests: The EP200's arm rests are comfy, but you can't move them around as much as other ergo chairs.
🔎 The Boulies EP200 is a great quality gaming chair that you can get for under $300, which offers fantastic value for money. ★★★★
Need to Know: The Boulies EP200 is a high-end gaming chair that aims to blend ergonomic support with (very subtle) gaming aesthetics. In fact, it's mainly the fact that Boulies specialises in gaming chairs that makes this a gaming chair. Put it along side any other black, chic office chair on this list, and it fits right in.
Key features include very comfortable memory foam cushioning, an adjustable neck pillow, and adjustable lumbar support – none of which is a given at this price point, so I'm super impressed with the EP200 overall.
Design: The Boulies EP200 strikes a balance between gaming aesthetics and office-appropriate styling. While it retains some gaming chair hallmarks like the adjustable neck pillow, it only comes in black or grey, squarely going after a more grown up design.
The chair's design includes thoughtful details like the air ways on the neck, which, while not always noticeable, contribute to overall comfort during extended use. The detachable head pillow adds another layer of customisation to the chair's appearance and comfort.
Comfort: Comfort is where the Boulies EP200 truly shines. The mesh and memory foam combination provides excellent support and pressure relief. Our reviewer found that the built-in lumbar support was very effective. However, she didn't like the fact that the arm rests didn't tilt up (only forward and back, and sideways).
Price: The Boulies EP200 is positioned in the budget segment of the gaming chair market, with a retail price of $299. However, discounts are constantly available, bringing the price down to around $199 in some cases. This puts it about on a par with the best budget office chair that I've ever used – the Sihoo M18, featured in the number 1 spot on this list.
"The Boulies EP200 gaming chair was a pleasure to sit in, for gaming and day-to-day work. I liked the comfort of the mesh and foam combination, the head rest pillow, and I really appreciated the quality of materials."
Best budget stool
✅ You want to stay active over the working day: Encouraging a constant rocking motion, this stool promotes consistent micro-movements.
✅ You like clean, classic design: Simple and elegant, with no more materials than are necessary, the Muista Office Chair is a pleasing object.
❌ You want to relax and recline: This is certainly not a La-Z-Boy; it's designed to keep your core moving and body active.
❌ You're on a very slim budget: Even though it's smaller and simpler than the other chairs on our list, this is one of the more expensive.
🔎 The Muista Chair... is it even a chair? Well, no, it's a stool, but it fulfils the same function as an office chair, with the added bonus of keeping your body active by encouraging constant micro-movements – counteracting the sedentary effects of sitting too long. ★★★★
What you need to know: In the immortal words of Sesame Street, one of these things is not like the others, and the Muista Chair is an immediate outlier in our office chairs roundup. But it's one worth considering, especially if you're worried about how much of the day your job requires you to sit in a chair.
Essentially, the Muista Chair is a rocking stool. So there's no back support, there are no adjustable arms (or, indeed, any arms at all), there's no tilt control – you get it. Instead, the stool is designed to keep you moving constantly, just a little, throughout the working day. You can move back to front or side to side, as you choose – as long as you move.
Design: Beautifully simple, this is an object with no more parts than it needs, which is immediately attractive to design aficionados like myself. There are no flimsy plastic parts to break off, no wheels to squeak – essentially, it's a cushion on a curved bit of wood. If you have a fashionably minimalist home office, it'll fit right in. I appreciated the discreet but distinctive character of the chair right away, and it felt right at home the whole time I used it.
Comfort: Naturally, we're grading on a slightly different curve than any of the other chairs on this list. The Muista Chair is less 'comfortable' than something like the Sihoo M18, sure – but you might well end up feeling better after a day spent sitting in it. This is certainly not going to be the case for everybody, and if you have chronic back problems or anything similar, it may simply be a non-starter. However, if you think you might suit the Muista Chair, I strongly recommend at least considering it – you may find yourself much better off in the long run.
Price: This is more expensive than many of the other chairs on our list, generally going for between $410 and $490, depending on which materials you choose. It costs a similar amount to gaming chairs like the Vertagear SL5800, though takes up a lot less room and is much more pleasant to look at.
"I don't think this will be for every user. But I found that using the Muista chair made me gently engage my core, move my legs, hips and back in a way that left me feeling less sluggish."
How we test
Many of the budget office chairs in this guide have been personally tested by our writers here at CreativeBloq. When testing office chairs, we look not just at the price, but how easy it is to assemble - as office chairs often come disassembled.
We then use the chairs during our day-to-day work and make note of how comfortable they are, as well as how adjustable each part of the chair is - an important consideration when it comes comfort and safety.
FAQs
Are budget chairs ergonomic?
When buying a budget office chair, you may worry that you need to sacrifice comfort to get a low price. However, while some very cheap chairs may lack the ergonomic features you'd find in pricier models, there are still plenty of budget chairs with some ergonomic features for your home or office, offering adjustable backs, lumbar support and tilt controls.
What's the best budget chair?
Though there's probably not one perfect chair for everyone, it's clear that Sihoo have cornered the market when it comes to super affordable office chairs. In this list I've chosen the Sihoo M90C as my pick of the best budget chairs, but there are even cheaper option over at the Sihoo store. It just combines a good price with decent features and comfort.
