Another point of comparison between office chairs is the material, most of which are made of mesh, fabric, leather, plastic, or wood. Other features to look out for are the armrest, headrest, and lumbar support. We will show pointers in choosing an office chair and compare the best products online along with their reviews to help you decide.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Office chairs can be largely categorized into three types according to their distinct characteristics - executive, ergonomic, and reclining. Down below, we will discuss more of the unique features of each type.
An executive chair is not only comfortable to sit on but also has a stylish appearance. They are also called president chairs because of their design. The cushioned seat and high backrest are usually made from genuine or faux leather—qualities that definitely deserve the name “executive.”
The price of executive chairs can be quite high, but they are highly recommended for those who want comfort and elegance when working or studying within a luxurious desk area or room. Your productivity will definitely improve when you sit on and an executive chair.
Most people who sit on office chairs all day have lingering shoulder and lower back pains. Switching your current chair to an ergonomic chair can end that pain by making your sitting position more natural. This is highly recommended for those who are looking for the perfect partner for their long hours at work or online classes.
Next, you will get to pick between a stationary or swivel chair. The former is a must for people who want a stable chair. Most office chairs fall under the swivel type to navigate the work area without needing to stand up and walk across the room. Check out their pros and cons in this section.
The majority of office chairs have wheels and have a swivel function. Nevertheless, it can get distracting if your chair easily rolls or fidgets along with your motions. If you prefer a steadier office chair that does not budge with slight movement, you should get one without rollers. This can also be a choice if you have a smaller desk and do not need to be as mobile.
Office chairs mostly come with wheels or rollers because it is ideal for large office spaces. Getting a wheeled office chair is a must especially if you have a long and wide desk while in reaching distance of your other supplies. This increases your advantage in terms of mobility without needing to stand up every now and then.
Office chairs shouldn't just be there to be sat on, but they should also be comfortable. With an adjustable height and recline, you will be able to modify the parts according to your body. As a means to ease and prevent strain, the armrest, headrest, wide backrest, and lumbar support are vital components as well.
An office chair should be the one to adapt to your body and not the other way around. With that, get a chair that has an adjustable seat recline and height. The recline feature allows you to modify the angle of the backrest from forward to backward whether you want to keep your back straight or to a more relaxed sitting or semi-reclined position.
Another detail to look out for in an office chair is the adjustable seat height. This makes it possible to alter the height of your seat according to your level of comfort and the height of your table or desk. Having adjustable parts is preferable for an office chair because it can cater to different body lengths and frames.
Neck and shoulder strain is a common problem, especially if you sit on an office chair all day. To lessen or prevent these, get an office chair with an arm and headrest. Armrests give you a place to lay and rest your arms to prevent shoulder and arm soreness. For some, these may restrict movement, which in case an office chair without armrests may be better.
Headrests support the head and neck to eliminate pain and tension as you work. Plus, they serve as a pillow whenever you lean back or lie down on a reclined chair. One probable downside of office chairs with armrests and a headrest is that they take up more space and are bulky, so these are recommended for spacious work areas.
If you want an office chair that provides support for the back, go for one that has a high and wide backrest. Couple that with lumbar support that is precisely patterned in line with the back’s natural curvature. These are common features of ergonomic chairs which ensure that your back has full coverage to alleviate any further strain and lower back pain.
Now that you’ve understood the 3 types of office chairs, the next thing you need to check is the materials. We will discuss four materials - fabric, mesh, synthetic leather, plastic, and wood. It is crucial to check the material composition of your chair so you will end up with one that is most suitable for your needs.
A lot of office chair brands use mesh material because it is highly breathable. You can sit on it for long hours without the stuffy and moist feeling ー, a good option for those who sweat a lot or work in an environment that could get quite hot.
It is also known to fit perfectly according to your body and is often used for the backrest, giving you great support when you lean onto it. It can be a bit more expensive than the fabric office chair but is recommended to those whose priority is functionality.
Leather made from PVC and PU is called faux leather. Both have a luxurious appearance like genuine leather but are relatively cheaper, making them the most popular choice for affordable executive chairs. A downside is that it can be a little sticky during hot summer days.
Although not genuine leather, PU leather made with polyurethane has a higher quality than leather made from PVC leather or vinyl. It is also more durable, making it highly recommended for those who are willing to invest more in an office chair for long-term usage.
Plastic is heavy-duty and versatile such that it can be used to create more intricate structures and vibrant colors for an office chair in contrast with other materials. Not only that, it is easy to maintain and wipe clean due to the waterproof surface. Since plastic office chairs are solid, it is better to get one with a cushioned or padded seat for extra comfort.
Determining the overall dimensions of an office chair is necessary to make sure it fits in your desired space. Before selecting an office chair, measure your work or study area, especially if the room has limited capacity. Although this takes additional time and effort, you will end up with an office chair that is not too small or too big.
You shouldn't just delegate a space that has the exact dimensions of the office chair. When browsing office chairs online, see if the stated numbers include the armrest or not. Always consider having as much allowance as possible. In particular, reclining chairs should have enough space to be reclined at the maximum allowable angle.
Knowing an office chair's maximum weight capacity is also important as it is directly proportional to strength and longevity. That being said, the greater the number is, the better because it implies that the chair can hold its own without any parts being dislodged or broken. If your budget only allows you to buy smaller office chairs, you can weigh yourself to get the minimum number.
Last but not least, you will be choosing the color of your office chair. To decide on its color, you should take note of your preferred hue and the room's theme and aesthetic. Keeping in mind these two main considerations will lead you to an office chair that has your favorite color while coordinating with your interiors.
Most office chairs come in black, muted, and plain colors. If you want to keep it classy, go for neutral colors that can suit a variety of room themes. You can also choose one with a bright and solid shade or opt for a combination of at least two tones for a pop of color to showcase your personality.
From ₱24,000
Trust us when we say that this office chair is worth your money. It reclines at a 130-degree angle, so you can take naps in between working or studying. You can also bring out the footrest so you can lay down properly. Not only that, the seat can hold up to 135 kilograms, while the backrest allows a maximum of 113 kilograms.
Its waterfall seating mimics the natural angle of your legs when seated compared to chairs that have a straight and even seat. It has a 5 position lock through its adjustable armrest, headrest, backrest, lumbar support, and seat cushion to suit any height, whether you're petite or have a tall stature.
This chair is a good investment because of its 3-year warranty and lifetime service guarantee. If you live in Metro Manila, there is an option to have this chair delivered already assembled to save you some time and effort. For provincial orders, it comes unassembled, but their lines are open for further assistance.
From ₱27,713
Norwegian brand Flokk has entered the Philippine market with their esteemed award-winning office chair. The HÅG Capisco Puls was given the title of "Best Recycled Plastic Product" in 2015 by the European Association of Plastics Recycling and Recovery Organisations for its design as well as sustainability. This office chair is made of durable plastic and has a cushioned seat.
The height, depth, and back height can be adjusted to modify your position from sitting to near standing. Moreover, the saddle seat and the minimal backrest that follows the natural contour of the back are specifically designed for freedom of movement. There are foot supports located on the top of each roller so that your feet won't slip.
From ₱10,590
When it comes to minimalist furniture, Ikea is at the forefront of it all. This statement piece, dubbed the Fjällberget, complements a variety of interior designs, especially those with wooden accents and neutral hues. You can choose between white and beige or black and grey colorway. Its low to mid-back structure and the inlet are not only for aesthetic purposes, but they also help in airflow.
Moreover, the backrest and armrests are made of a uniform segment of wood, contributing to the clean look of this office chair. On the other hand, the seat is adjustable and comfortable because it is cushioned and covered with polyester fabric. This is the stationary version, but if you prefer an office chair with wheels, the Fjällberget conference chair with casters is for you.
From ₱2,699
This chair can be securely reclined at any angle up to 135 degrees, thanks to its tilt-lock feature for added safety precaution. In addition, the retractable footrest can be brought out when you want to take a quick break or inserted back during as you resume your homework or tasks at hand.
Many reviewers mentioned that this chair is easy to assemble, sturdy, comfortable, and most of all, affordable considering its features and material. However, keep in mind that since it is made from faux leather, this is not ideal to be used in a room that's not well ventilated or by those who sweat a lot, especially during summer.
From ₱14,000
Look and feel like a boss with this High Back Executive Chair from HandO. It has a PU leather seat and a wooden finish at the back. You can get this chair in other colors, whichever suits your personality and office scheme. The seat reclines with a tilt lock as well as an adjustable seat height.
This chair's maximum weight capacity of 200 kg, which ensures its sturdiness and longevity. Because it does not have armrests, it is ideal for compact or study spaces since it has a rather sleek look compared to other bulky office chairs. Its breathability may not be the best because of its material and flat back. However, it has cushioned seating to make up for it.
From ₱5,999
Doozy's red Penelope is proof that an office chair need not be boring. Getting a black or gray office chair seems to be the norm, but what better way to boost your mood and productivity than going for one with a bright and bold color. The white linings of the swivel base, armrests, and overall frame help highlight the red tone.
The adjustable height and fabric-covered and cushioned armrests, headrest, seat, and backrest provide utmost comfort to the user. This is ideal for rooms that incorporate different shades of red, but it is also perfect for monochrome or neutral-themed rooms to accentuate the surroundings.
From ₱2,199
This office chair from Flitch Home features an ergonomic design that includes a high back, headrest, armrest, lumbar support, and a thick cushion that will provide extra comfort while working. It is made from a breathable mesh material, so this is a good choice for those who work or study in areas with minimal ventilation.
It has a 360° swivel function for optimal mobility, so you can always be in an arm's reach between your office or school supplies and equipment. The seat height and headrest of the chair can also be adjusted according to your preference. Many of the reviewers left a good rating saying that this office chair is durable but does not break the bank.
From ₱2,799
If you want a more stable office chair, get a stationary one, like this one from Ergodynamic. From the seat up, it looks like a regular office chair, but at the bottom is a cantilever sled base. The base not only provides support and balance but also contributes to the clean and minimalist design of this chair in comparison with swivel and wheeled office chairs.
Don't underestimate this chair as it can hold a person up to 100 kilograms. The backrest is made of thick mesh for maximum breathability while being able to fully cover and support your back. It is on the affordable side without compromising on the quality. Other features include the lumbar support and armrest. However, the seat height cannot be adjusted.
From ₱1,499
This chair from Back City is for you if you do not want a large and bulky chair. It does not have additional features like the reclining backrest and adjustable armrest, but it serves its basic function. It is suitable for close-packed spaces and only for those who have a smaller build and a maximum weight of 80 kilograms.
It may be a simple chair, but it is ergonomic with its rounded inward curved midback design of the backrest. The mesh material also provides breathability so your back will not sweat. If you are looking for a simple, no-fuss chair that does its job, then you might want to consider this product.
From ₱1,399
Now it's time to answer three of the frequently asked questions regarding the mechanisms and proper maintenance of office chairs. The following information is crucial so you get the most out of your chosen office chair. Always remember to do consistent cleaning and checking of the chair to make sure that there are no loose or malfunctioning parts.
An office chair with an adjustable height makes it easy to prop up or move down your seat according to the table height. Over time as you use the office chair, a common problem is the seat sinking when you sit on it. This entails that the lifting mechanism or valve of the seat lever used to modify the height of your chair is not fully functional so you need to get it fixed.
The simple answer is yes, an office chair may scratch a wooden floor. When transferring your chair from one place to another, do not drag it across the floor and lift it up instead. You may also place a soft carpet, rug, or chair mat under the area of your swivel office chair. Rubber anti-slip covers for each leg base of stationary office chairs can help as well.
Other parts like the wheels and screws need to be checked as much as possible. Since the wheels on swivel chairs accumulate dirt and debris, they also need to be cleaned often. Spray lubricant on the wheels every six months or as needed for a smooth glide. Finally, watch out for loose screws to avoid mishaps and untoward injuries.
Whichever material your office chair is made of, it is important to vacuum them once in a while to suck in dirt from every nook and cranny. Next, gently scrub the chair using a soft microfiber cloth dipped in a mixture of water and dishwashing liquid or any mild soap. Rinse the surfaces with a damp cloth until there is no soap residue. Let it air dry or wipe with a dry cloth.
Finish it off with a duster to get rid of remaining or excess dirt. For leather chairs, apply leather cream or conditioner to keep its pristine texture and finish. If you’re unsure of the process, read the care guide that is included in the packaging or manual. Regular cleaning is vital in keeping your office chair in good shape. In case of any accidental spills or stains, make sure to wash them right away.
Getting a durable and comfortable office chair is just one step to having a complete and well-rounded work or study area. Improve your productivity even more by acquiring the right tools and equipment that you can use either for working or studying. Check out our other product recommendations by clicking the links down below!
Re-editor: Patricia Catimpo
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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