How to Buy an Office Chair for Your Workspace

Whether you work at a traditional office or from home, it's important to have a comfortable working environment to increase productivity. Since you'll be spending a vast majority of your time at work, you should try to make it as comfortable as possible and limit distractions. 

The average worker in Australia spends approximately 40 hours per week at the workplace, with an average of 7 hours per day in an office chair. You’re more likely to be productive when you have a dedicated, work-friendly zone. So it's crucial to invest in the perfect office chair. The better the chair, the better the chance at preventing fatigue and improving productivity. 

If you’re looking to buy an ergonomic chair, the experts at Artiss can provide ideas to help you choose the right chair. In this handy guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to take into account when assessing the wide range of office chairs available on the market before arriving at the perfect desk chair.

Set a budget for an office chair

Buying furniture can be an overwhelming process. With hundreds of retailers offering products that vary in quality, style, durability, and price, it’s hard to understand what to purchase and how much to spend on it. The number one rule before you set out looking for furniture is to fix an ideal budget. The experts at Artiss recommend buyers to compare furniture prices as this technique can help bag some great deals. Another tip is that it’s not necessary to have a high budget to find something of great value. But that doesn’t mean you compromise on the quality of the products or your needs. Doing a bit of research on your own and establishing clear goals can help you set a realistic budget and make your furniture buying process worthwhile. 

Assess your needs

After you fix a budget, the next important step is to assess your needs. The Artiss furniture experts suggest assessing your existing office chair for comfort, durability and flexibility. This will give you a better understanding of what you need to create a comfy and flexible workstation that will ultimately boost your productivity. 

The following are some questions that the experts recommend you to ask yourself. This basic questionnaire will help you to understand your needs, work out the right place to put your chair, and prevent you from making incorrect purchase decisions:

• Do you work for longer hours in front of computers?

• Are you purchasing for short-term or long-term use?

• For how many years do you plan to use this item?

• What’s more important to you - function or looks?

• Will it work in your current space - rugs and all?

• What’s the sole reason for purchasing?  

• Do you suffer from any postural problems or circulatory issues? 

Types of office chairs

The wrong chair or working on a sofa or bed can put undue stress on your body and seriously impact your posture. The lack of flexibility when it comes to adjusting can also lead to neck and upper back issues. So it’s crucial to invest in the right office chair that can effectively adapt to your individual needs and keep you comfortable throughout the working day. 

Below, we’ve discussed some of the most popular types of computer chairs in detail so that you can make a more informed decision.  

Massage office chairs

Imagine treating yourself to a soothing massage without having to leave your work desk! The massage office chair is a real treat and a total game changer that can take the stress out of your work. It will enable you to work for longer hours without feeling uncomfortable as well as make you feel relaxed when you feel overworked. With 15-minute massage therapy, a massage chair will help lower stress levels, improve concentration and mental alertness, enhance problem-solving skills, and improve blood circulation. According to a research study, an office massage chair can help improve mental health and reduce stress by increasing serotonin levels and decreasing cortisol levels. 

Pros of massage office chairs

• Soothes aching muscles

• Relieves tension

• Targets different areas

• Remote operated

• Customisable massage intensities

• Ease of use

• Loosens stiff and tired muscles

• Improves blood circulation

• Improves posture

Cons of massage office chairs

• Expensive

• Can’t replace professional massage

• Comes with maximum user weight

Gaming chair

Replacing your traditional office chair with a gaming chair can make you feel more comfortable, enable you to sit longer without experiencing back pain, and help you stay productive. Standard office chairs usually have fixed armrests and a backrest that doesn’t recline, forcing workers into fixed sitting positions. This limits body movements and overworks muscles, resulting in accelerated fatigue, improper circulation, and poor posture. In stark contrast, gaming chairs feature a high padded backrest, soft seat, lumbar and neck support cushions, adjustable armrests and backrest recline, wide shoulder support, 360-degree swivel, and other modern ergonomic components. These features support a healthy sitting posture, promote movement, and allow proper blood circulation. They also help to prevent muscle overexertion and improve flexibility, thus keeping you comfortable while working.

PROS OF GAMING CHAIRS

• Relieves lower back pain

• Reduces pressure exerted on your spine

• Enables body movement

• Improves blood circulation

• Encourages good posture

• Provides maximum support

• Prevents slouching

• Maintains spine’s natural alignment

CONS OF GAMING CHAIRS

• Designed for small, slender builds

• Expensive

• Some are built to simply look cool, putting flair before function

Executive office chairs

Want to feel like a CEO in the corner office of a big business, or are you simply after a high-end chair to suit your home office? Executive office chairs are a luxurious option and stand out from other standard computer chairs. They look as good as they sound. An executive office chair conveys authority. Its sturdy build, premium upholstery, and luxurious design complement the power and stature one holds. Sleek and comfortable with sophisticated styling, these chairs feature soft padding, tilt and height adjustment, 360-degree rotatable swivel, and adjustable padded armrests for ultimate seating comfort. Most executive office chairs also have a high-back design and neck cushion, which makes them perfect for anyone who works for extended periods. They are tailored to radically improve your experience while working and reduce stress on your back and shoulders.  

Pros of executive chairs

• High-end design

• Comfortable to sit

• Creates a lasting impression

• Contributes to better seating posture

• Solid build quality

• Lowers risk of muscle injuries and aches

• Extra soft padding

• Improves flexibility and performance

• Suitable over extended periods

Cons of executive chairs

• Pricier than other types of office chairs

• Limited colour and material options   

Ergonomic chairs

The experts at Artiss suggest that an ideal seating position for optimal posture support is with your feet flat on the floor and knees and hips parallel to each other to reduce strain on the back of the thighs. An ergonomic office chair is specially designed to improve efficiency and comfort while working. It’s no longer deemed a luxury chair but a necessity for the wellbeing and health of a desk worker. Unlike standard computer chairs, an ergonomic office chair will enable you to sit straight, reducing pressure on your neck, spine, and hips. Chairs with ergonomic support are fully adjustable and allow you to align with your height, desk, and preferred seated position. The taller backrest can help prop up your back, and the neck and shoulder support can reduce stiffness in these areas. 

Pros of ergonomic chairs

• Excellent posture support

• Improves blood circulation

• Relieves pressure on hips

• Reduces back pain

• Enhanced productivity

• Reduces lower back pain and neck pain

• Ultimate flexibility

• Designed for all body types

• Certified and tested 

Cons of ergonomic chairs

• Expensive

• May malfunction

• Semi-adjustable chairs may do more damage than good

Drafting office chair

Drafting or stool office chairs are specially designed for lab workers, dentists, architects, engineers, and DIYers, enabling them to work conveniently with a hand tool, such as a pencil, dental handpieces, and pair of pliers. Investing in a good drafting chair will make you more productive and prevent you from developing back or neck injuries. These chairs feature a ring foot support that allows users to achieve range and conveniently perch and lean forward without any difficulty. They also typically come with casters for easy manoeuvrability, a 360-degree rotatable seat, and adjustable height settings. Drafting office chairs are made to complement drafting tables and sit and stand desks, allowing you to sit and stand without interrupting your work. You may expect drafting chairs to come with or without armrests. Additionally, these chairs are quite lightweight, which makes them easy to move around.  

Pros of drafting office chairs

• Maintains proper posture

• Adjustable height

• Comes with a footrest

• Keeps you comfortable

• Achieve range while avoiding strain

• Lightweight

• Easy to move around

• Offers good flexibility

• Suitable for users who stand while working

Cons of a drafting office chairs

• May or may not come with armrests

• Poorly made drafting chairs can lead to low productivity and cause injury

• Not suitable for standard workstations

• Doesn’t offer other types of adjustments except for height

What to look for in an ergonomic office chair

Finding a chair for your needs can be a real challenge. To ensure you make the right purchase, the Artiss furniture experts have listed the vital factors that you should keep in mind.

Adjustability

Can you turn the chair on an angle? Purchasing a chair with adjustable features can encourage good posture and improve your comfort while working. Always look for computer chairs with adjustable height, backrest, recline, and armrests for optimal comfort. An adjustable backrest reduces pressure on your spine, armrests minimise tension in the upper body, and ideal chair height prevents neck and shoulder pain. The expert team at Artiss recommends sitting in an ideal position, where your feet rest comfortably on the floor and arms easily reach your keyboard. This will reduce strain on your back and relieve tension in your shoulders.    

Support

The lumbar of your spine is the lower back area of your spinal column, consisting of five bones. Though they are the strongest in your body, they will need adequate support. No matter how long you’ll be in an office chair, good lumbar support can make your time at work more comfortable, prevent stiffening, and ease pain and discomfort. The right positioning of your back will also help you maintain a healthy posture, which can prevent long-term mobility issues.  

Castor wheels for easy mobility

The first ever office chair with wheels was invented by Charles Darwin. He attached legs and wheels to his wooden armchair so that he could zoom around and access his specimens easily. A chair with castor wheels can make scooting around your workspace to friends and colleagues easier.

Back height 

Seat height and back shape are also the most important factors to consider when selecting a chair for your home office. Given low-back chairs provide less support to your neck and shoulders, they're better when sitting for shorter periods. On the other hand, mid-back office chairs are great at supporting your lower back, but not so much at supporting the upper part of your back. So if you suffer from upper back pain then high-back office chairs are the best choice. These chairs are also suitable for sitting for extended hours and ensure your head, neck, shoulders, and lower back are well-supported and aligned.  

Padding

Office chairs could either have soft or firm padding. Chairs with soft and plush seats may cause sinkage and not offer enough support. So you should always look for something with a firm seat, even if you prefer the feeling of plushness. This can help relieve pain, reduce fatigue, and keep you comfortable while working. 

Office chair upholstery and materials 

The materials used in construction greatly matter. A good quality upholstery material ensures breathability and keeps you comfortable throughout your working hours. Nowadays, office chairs come upholstered in a wide range of materials.

Leather office chair

Leather office chairs have been a staple in the home workplace for many years. There’s nothing that can stand against the visual allure of leather. A bright leather chair helps create a cheerful vibe, while a dark leather chair conveys authority. Speaking of durability, leather office chairs will not only last long but also look new even after many years of use. You can also extend the lifespan of your leather by rehydrating it with a good conditioner to keep the leather soft and prevent cracking. Leather office chairs offer good stain resistance. So if you accidentally spill some spaghetti sauce on your chair, all you need to do is wipe it off. The Artiss team recommends avoiding a leather-vinyl combination, however, because leather is bound to outlast the vinyl. 

Pros a leather office chair

• Comfortable 

• Durable and long-lasting

• Stain resistance

• Easy to keep clean and maintain

• Luxurious addition

• Multiple colour and style options available

Cons of a leather office chair

• Expensive

• Can cause you to sweat in summer

• Scratches easily

• Can be slippery 

• Cold in winter 

Mesh office chair

The mesh office chairs make a great alternative to standard leather and fabric office chairs. They are becoming increasingly popular in the workplace, thanks to their smart upholstery, which makes them breathable, comfortable, and lightweight. Mesh office chairs are usually combined with a moulded plastic frame or chrome. They complement modern furniture very well, enabling you to achieve a timeless style. The mesh-back design also allows better airflow to the back, keeping you sweat-free. The mesh is tightly woven, which makes it surprisingly sturdy and long-lasting. It also ergonomically contours to the natural spinal curve, prevents backache, and promotes a healthy posture.  

Pros of a mesh office chair

• Provides good ventilation

• Contours to your natural spinal curve

• Prevents sweat and repels odour

• Tightly-woven mesh

• Strong and durable

• Available in different styles and designs

• Stylish and modern 

• Complements modern furniture and spaces

• Easy to clean

• Provides excellent support

• Affordable choice

Cons of a mesh office chair

• May lose their supportive nature over time

• Some mesh chairs are not suitable to sit for long hours  

• Soft mesh may cause sagging

• Hard mesh may be uncomfortable  

Fabric office chair

Fabric upholstered chairs are common choices as office chairs, thanks to the comfort and support that they offer. You can find fabric upholstered chairs in a wide range of styles, colours, and designs, which makes them easier to match with your existing decor. The fabric upholstered chair either has a wood frame or a metal frame for durability and strength, combined with a thick, soft padded cushion. This keeps you motivated and productive throughout your work time. 

Pros of a fabric upholstered chair

• Super comfortable

• Durable and sturdy

• Practical design 

• Available in multiple colours and styles 

• Looks premium 

• Low maintenance cost

Cons of a fabric upholstered chair

• Restricts proper airflow

• Stains easily

• Can absorb sweat

• Hard to keep clean

• Wear and tear can happen fast

• Not pet-friendly

Match your desk

Matchy-matchy may feel so 1980s, but you should want to create a working environment with minimal distractions. So you need to pick office furniture pieces that complement each other. Your furniture doesn't have to match perfectly as long as it doesn’t clash. The team at Artiss has shared some tips to help you choose the best office chair for your environment.

• Check what you’ve already got in your home office space. If you’ve got a desk that’s in decent shape, pull inspiration from this piece. If you’re considering new office furniture, focus on other prominent furniture pieces in your home office room or colour scheme. Don’t be afraid to mix and match.   

• You don’t have to find an exact match. Mesh office chairs, fabric office chairs, and even leather office chairs are quite versatile. They can complement any work desk, but make sure you get the right colour. 

• Black goes with everything. Try incorporating a black office chair for a bold, modern look.   

Designing a home office space can be challenging. When buying office furniture pieces, why stop at comfort and functionality? The aesthetics also greatly matter. There’s no need to compromise on aesthetics when Artiss has got a wide variety of stylish, well-designed, and affordable office chairs that you can choose from.   

Tips to help you choose the best office chair online

Planning to buy an office chair online, but overwhelmed with the range of products on the market? Our Artiss specialist team has shared some valuable tips to help you make the right purchase. 

• Before you begin shopping, do your own research to get a clear idea about the type of chair you need for your type of work. This will help you quickly narrow down your search and locate the one that’s right for you.

• Look beyond the looks and aesthetics. While you can shop by stylish office chairs, you should double-check the computer chair is ergonomic and designed to be customisable.

• Take the seat padding into account. A chair too soft may make you feel too relaxed to work, while a chair that’s too hard may make you feel uncomfortable and cause distraction. It should be just the right firmness.

• Make a list of chairs you’re interested in purchasing. Then, compare them against each other to find the perfect chair. This analysis will help you find the perfect match for your needs.

• Read a good amount of reviews, confirm how reliable the brand is, and check warranty assurance details for your peace of mind. Always double-check what's covered in the warranty to be on the safer side. 

• It's hard to compare to first-hand experience. Why not head into your nearest store and check out their collection of chairs first? Once you determine the height, material and features you need in store, you can search for a similar kind of office chair online and weigh up the latest offers.

A final checklist for office furniture

How do you know whether your office chair is the right purchase for you? We've discussed some essential factors for you to consider before saying ‘I do’ to your office chair. 

Your seated time

The most important question you should ask yourself is how many hours a day you’ll be seated in an office chair. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all. The more hours you sit, the better the office chair you need. This will not only make you feel comfortable but also limit mental distractions while working. The experts at Artiss recommend trying before making a purchase as this will help you understand how comfortable it is and what adjustments you can make for your comfort. If you can’t do that, try finding product reviews online.

Warranty

Another important consideration to take into account is warranty. The best office chairs come with a solid warranty to give you peace of mind. It’s best to acknowledge the warranty details before purchasing an office chair or any other furniture to avoid confusion in future. The Artiss office furniture experts suggest that you check what components that the warranty will cover and whether the service provider is local or whether there will be any extra transport costs to get your office chairs repaired. You can also check if the extended warranty option is available and what services it covers. 

Reviews

Purchasing a good chair is crucial to your work life. It’s significant for improving your performance at your job. Quality construction ensures better durability, ultimate comfort, and higher productivity. While reviewing specifications, weight capacity, and other additional features, it's most important that you read reviews, especially if you plan to shop online exclusively. This will give you a better idea of the product quality and construction.

Certified and tested desk chairs

The right chair can make a positive difference in your life, while something cheaply made may not be technically safe. It will promote good posture, provide lower back support, reduce pressure on the neck and shoulders, and alleviate back pain. If you need assurance that your office chair will withstand the rigours of frequent use, choosing a certified office chair is a good choice. It helps ensure that your office chair meets a higher level of ergonomics, quality, safety, and durability. Artiss office chairs come with TUV or SGS certified gas lift, which ensures safety and ease of use.    

To sum up, no chair is perfect. We understand choosing an office chair can be tough, but it’s worth the time and effort because you’ll be there for several hours on most days. The biggest mistake we find buyers make when selecting an office chair is checking if a chair makes them feel relaxed. Most importantly, the best office chairs should be suitable to your line of work and your body's needs.

At Artiss, we offer a range of office chairs for workers with bodies, lifestyles and careers of all shapes and sizes across Australia and New Zealand.

Browse the Artiss range of office chairs and shop online today.