Chairs Buyer's Guide

Essential chair features

A basic office task chair features a strong frame and quality mechanics, and can offer the adjustability options you need for just a few hundred dollars.

There are many key features to look for when selecting office chairs. Deciding which features are most important will vary according to how it will be used. For example, a factory worker who sits periodically to process paperwork or place phone calls will have different needs from a customer service representative who sits at a desk for eight hours a day or longer.

Also, chairs for conference rooms or reception areas may not need as many adjustable options as task chairs because they are used infrequently. (Read more about how to shop for conference room chairs or reception chairs.)

Back support: To prevent slouching, office chairs should provide a supportive fit for the curvature of the user's lower back. Some backrests can be adjusted to an angle that is different from the seat to accommodate different leg lengths. An adjustable curved backrest can add extra support.

Seat height adjustment: Chairs should be easy to adjust – even while seated – to improve posture and prevent back pain. They may include an attached lever or "gas cylinder" knob that can raise the height of the seat several inches above the floor. This ensures users have their feet planted firmly on the floor, legs kept horizontal, and arms even with the height of the desk.

Seat width and depth: The seat should be wide enough to support users of varying body types comfortably and deep enough to let them relax against the backrest. The user should check that the chair is one inch wider than the hips and thighs on both sides by measuring the depth of the chair from the front of the seat to where it meets the backrest. That should provide ample room between the back of the calf and the front of the chair.

Seat cushion: The seat should be cushioned to evenly distribute the user's weight and contoured to the user's body frame.

Armrests: Armrests can be adjusted vertically or horizontally to support the forearms and elbows while typing, helping employees avoid discomfort in the shoulders, wrists, and neck. Padded armrests can offer even more comfort. Some chairs feature armrests that fold out of the way when not in use.

Swivel: A swivel mechanism allows the user to move from side to side in the chair without much effort. This lets the user easily reach out across the desk with minimal strain.

Seat tilt: This lets the chair slope forward to relieve pressure on the spine. A tilt lock keeps the chair upright to naturally curve your lower back and prevent slouching.

Wheels: You can choose from sturdy wheels that glide effortlessly over thick carpeting or raised floors, or rubber-tipped casters that prevent scratches to delicate surfaces.

Material: For proper ergonomics, consider chairs with additional padding. They tend to be "breathable" which takes away from some of the user's natural body heat.

Additional customization
In addition to choosing the features of your office chairs, you can also customize their look and feel. Many chair manufacturers allow you to customize the color and pattern of the chair upholstery and select different grades of cushioning. By adding a finish or coating to your chair materials, you can prevent nicks, scratches, and stains while extending the life of the furniture.

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