Nathaniel Fried
We spend 1/3 of our lives at work. Much of that time is likely spent behind a desk. Bearing this in mind, it only makes sense to put some effort and money into a great desk and chair.
Most offices buy their equipment in bulk and often end up with one of the cheaper and more uncomfortable options with a focus on cost cutting rather than long-term ergonomic comfort for their employees. Not all companies (such as Apple) have the ability to purchase 10,000+ functionally designed chairs with a starting price of $1,185 and assign each employee their own customizable standing desk. I would suggest that this is one (of many) reasons that working from home is becoming more encouraged as you can opt to purchase your own equipment.
Contributor: Chris Allen, Content Marketing & Social Media Manager at PhoenixNAP Global IT Solutions
In addition to this, numerous studies have been done showing that a more comfortable chair improves productivity (by up to 17.5% according to this study), along with:
- Easing lower back pain
- Improving blood flow
- Minimising musculoskeletal disorders
All of which will ultimately lead to more time off work and a less comfortable life.
We reached out to writers across the world to get their recommendations for the best chairs and desks. Here are the suggestions they made and why.
#1 Shaker Writing Desk
The timeless design of the shaker inspired writing desk offers a focused and clutter-free space, while the warm cherry simultaneously provides a comfortable and stimulating atmosphere for any blossoming writers.
Built by Maine woodworkers, this desk will last decades as an heirloom to pass down through generations of writers, with countless stories embedded in its soul. The desk's simplicity also allows for any desk chair pairing, whether sleek and modern, elegant and formal, or a matching classic cherry like the Waterford Desk Chair.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Jared Levin, Owner of Chilton Furniture
#2 Aeron (Herman Miller)
Tried and tested the most functional, customizable, and stereotypical office chair. The price is steep, starting at $1175 but it will last forever and keep you ergonomically sane in the process.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Chris Allen, Content Marketing & Social Media Manager at PhoenixNAP Global IT Solutions
#3 AmazonBasics High-Back Executive Chair
As the name suggests, this chair will have you looking and feeling powerful and inspired. With padding in both the seat and the back, you will feel comfortable while you sit, and its 4.3-star rating on Amazon shows that people are truly happy with this purchase.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Nate Masterson from mapleholistics.com
#4 Perspective Mesh Office Chair
The Perspective mesh office chair provides tons of ergonomic adjustments for its low price point. Ergonomic adjustments include tilt tension and tilt lock, adjustable seat height, depth, and angle, adjustable back height and angle, adjustable arm height and width, adjustable center tilt, and forward seat tilt. That's eleven adjustments in all, allowing users to fully customize their seating experience.
The memory foam seat conforms to the individual, and the mesh back keeps users cool and comfortable even during long work hours. The Perspective chair is available in three modern colors.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Nicole Groshek from National Business Furniture
#5 Stone & Beam Nailhead Swivel Office Chair with Wheels
This chair received 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon. It’s tall and sleek, making it a stylish choice for any office. And its cushioning makes it comfortable to sit in for hours at a time.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Nate Masterson from mapleholistics.com
#6 At Work Table Desk
The At Work table desk features a clean, simple silhouette that can complement any office or home. Its simple design makes it a breeze to assemble and brings it in at a price point that's hard to beat for an office desk. The At Work table desk measures 48W x 24D and is available in three modern colors. An all-steel frame is durable enough for years of use, while the laminate top is scratch- and stain-resistant.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Nicole Groshek from National Business Furniture
#7 Best Chair For Freelancers: Zenith Mesh Office Chair
As an active freelancer that works from home, I love my Zenith Ergonomic desk chair. I think desk chairs are very underrated as items that you need to splurge on. Besides your bed, this is the second most used item in your life. You must have good posture and be comfortable with your workspace.
I love the Zenith because it keeps me composed and focused with the meth back and high back for neck support. For someone that works hard, this is a must-have.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Kyle, Founder of Millionaire Mob
#8 Sayl (Herman Miller)
I (Chris Allen) use this as a home-office chair due to it's more aggressive design and relaxed feel. It has less ergonomic and customization options, but the price is nearly half that of the Aeron.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Chris Allen, Content Marketing & Social Media Manager at PhoenixNAP Global IT Solutions
#9 Cosm (Herman Miller)
This is the new hotness from Herman Miller, intended to work alongside or even replace the Aeron. It auto-adjusts for you, so there is less tinkering with the adjustments, which is helpful if anyone else wants to sit in the chair.
Read more reviews or buy this product here.
Contributor: Chris Allen, Content Marketing & Social Media Manager at PhoenixNAP Global IT Solutions
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I love the feel of real, solid wood vs melamine. Very grounding!
This furniture with its simplistic Shaker design is what my wife and I always looked for when decorating our home. Well, no more looking as we’ve found the furniture and the people who distribute it in Chilton Furniture.
Awesome quality.