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Best Office Chair Under $500 – Best Mid Range Office Chair Within $500

The midrange office chair category offers a wide array of options for professionals. I mean, the legendary Herman Miller Aeron may be out of reach for many, there are affordable alternatives like the best chair under $150. Between these two, there is a vast range of professional office chairs for midrange users.

But which is the right fit to your preferences?

Ideally, if you want a durable, comfortable yet ergonomic office chair, explore the chair niche under 500$. Many big guns compete here and provide great value-to-money. But which is the best office chair under 500?

Hermon Miller, Steelcase, Hon and other Tier1 brands offer their products here. So, whether you love conventional executive chair, mesh or fabric, let me burst the bubble of your curiosity with my list of comfortable office chairs under 500;

Best office Chair Under $500 – Pick the Best Midrange Chair for Your Home Office 

Mind it, the “best” office chair ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements (so obvious). Some individuals may find lower-priced options that meet their needs perfectly, while others may require additional features or have specific ergonomic requirements that necessitate a higher-priced chair.

However, in my opinion, the 500$ office chair category is something that features ergonomically comfortable chairs with good materials, great design elements, and valuable ergonomics to positively affect your bodily health.

In a Time Crunch? Checkout Best Office Chair Under 500 in 2 Minutes

I perfectly know in this fast-moving world, no one has time to go into long details to make their decisions rightly. So, here is the summary to choose top-notch Office chairs under 500$ without diving into long details.

Among all these great players, I certainly Picked Flash Furniture Executive Chair in this “Executive” office chair category, while Hon Ignition 2.0 task chair got my recommendation in the best Ergo office chair under 500.

First of all, I loved the HON Ignition 2.0 for multiple reasons. While it’s a well-rounded package, I loved the ergonomics and adjustable part the most. Each of its components is adjustable; from lumbar to height to seat pan position. It’s like you twist every part of your body.

However, if you aren’t into ergonomics’ thing, there is flash furniture for the heaviest and bigger masses out there. It isn’t adjustable as HON but definitely poses a strong frame to lift 500 lbs easily. This got my attention in this league as it is certainly a premium feature. 

1. HON Ignition 2.0: Best Ergonomic Office Chair Under 500$

Best Selling Points of HON Ignition 2.0:

  • Plentiful Adjustments: Seat pan glide, lumbar adjustments, armrest height and width control; the chair ergonomic game is super high.
  • Great Comfort: Excellent seat pan thickness and most flexible breathable mesh allow you to enjoy comfort and breathability in some extreme environments.
  • Extensive Lumbar support Adjustability range: While most chairs offer 1-inch of fixed lumbar adjustment, it gives you 3+ inches of adjustment for great comfort.

Who’s it for: Persons under 6ft, chubby professionals, for mid-hours sitting,

Why Do We Choose This? While this chair carries a lot of differences from its younger brother, it’s an improved version in design, ergonomics, and overall comfort For this midrange budget chair, we really liked the synchronized tilt mechanism. Additionally, the mesh back is extremely comfortable and breathable, making it suitable for humid and hot working environments. However, the plastic lumbar support may not provide long-lasting comfort. But considering its price in the league, we can’t complain.

Related Article: Best Office Chairs under $300

Who should avoid it: People with sensitive necks, professionals who prefer premium comfort for long hours.

Who should avoid it: People with sensitive necks, professionals who prefer premium comfort for long hours.

Design and Comfort:

Hon Ignition 2.0 surprised me with the improvements from its younger brother. First of all, the chair’s design sees a huge improvement; it combines more sleek aesthetics with extensive ergonomic features to provide an exceptional sitting experience.

Though it isn’t that prominent part, the breathable 4-way stretch mesh back not only adds a touch of sophistication but also offers excellent support for the spine, ensuring optimal ergonomic comfort throughout the day.

As I sat in the chair, I could feel the mesh conforming to the contours of my back, providing a pleasant and supportive sensation.

Adding more into my pleasing experience, the contoured and waterfall seat cushion further enhances the chair’s comfort. Designed with all-day use in mind, the cushion cradles your body, especially your legs and calves, alleviating any discomfort or fatigue that may arise from extended periods of sitting.

I personally found the cushion to be incredibly comfortable with its Pneumatic structure, offering a cozy and supportive seating experience.

So, overall the design is extremely robust to mimic the natural structure of the human body for locking dire comfort for long sitting sessions.

Adjustability and Practicality:

As a 500$ club member, this chair is designed to cater to your unique needs and preferences. A master of adjustability, almost every component of this chair is adjustable; from armrests to lumbar to seat pan.

First of all, the height- and width-adjustable arms allow you to find the ideal position for your arms, ensuring proper support and reducing strain. Additionally, the HIGHLY adjustable lumbar support feature enables you to customize the chair to suit your specific lumbar requirements.

However, the lumbar support is made of plastic. This is distinctively adjustable but expecting a premium level of support and comfort for long hours is just unrealistic. During extended use for almost 45-50 hours a week, I found the lumbar support to be slightly less supportive and comfortable after the 5 hours of continuous sitting.

But we can’t complain considering its price.

But then, I really liked the advanced synchro-tilt control mechanism that sets the HON Ignition 2.0 chair apart. With this feature, reclining becomes a seamless and effortless experience, allowing you to find your preferred angle for relaxation or focused work.

And I must endorse the tilt lock and tilt tension features that further enhance the chair’s adjustability, enabling you to customize the recline and tension to your liking. Furthermore, following the same pattern, the pneumatic seat height adjustment feature allows you to effortlessly raise or lower the seat to achieve the optimal height for your workstation setup.

And this whole range of adjustability allows the Hon 2.0 to handle 300lbs of weight which is undoubtedly enough for slim to chubby persons.

Pros
  • Excellent range of adjustability
  • Premium materials to ensure great durability
  • Pneumatic seat to comfort legs.
  • High breathable fabric materials
  • Decent 300lbs weight limit range
Cons
  • The adjustable lumbar is plastic which is not suitable for long hours

Best Alternative to Hon Ignition 2.0:

SPACE Seating Chair

Though it’s not as much a class as the Hon Ignition 2.0, I felt it’s better at lumbar support, filling the gap of Ignition 2.0. However, in the rest of the departments like adjustability, premium stitching and ergonomics, HON 2.0 performs better than Space Seating. But then Space seating justifies it with low-pricing and neck support which HON 2.0 lacks.

2. SteelCase Series 1: Best 500$ Office Chair with Highly Adjustable Armrest Setup

Steelcase Series 1 Work Office Chair

Best Selling Points of SteelCase 1:

  • Compactness and Good Aesthetics: It is neither tall nor short. Excellent aesthetics and space-saving design make it ideal for compact offices and congested spaces.
  • Most Adjustable Armrest setup: Regarding best office chairs under 500$, it has the most adjustable armrest setup to comfort users with neck shoulder and forearms fatigue.
  • Excellent Breathability: While the mesh back isn’t that fancy as you see in HON 2.0, but feel really comfortable and breathable in high degree temperatures.

Who’s it for: Users preferable looking for comfort and aesthetics, home users with moderate use, midrange sitting sessions.

 

Why Do We Choose This: How good is it to see a premium brand in the midrange category? Amazing, isn’t it? With Steelcase offering their most affordable office chair under the $500 tag, the Steelcase Series 1 is a decent all-rounder that ensures a balanced fusion of comfort, aesthetics, and durability. While I am still not entirely convinced by its lumbar setup, I must say it’s quite comfortable for midrange sitting sessions.

Who should avoid it: Users looking for a most versatile chair, chubby or thickest seating pan, long sitting hours. Users above 6ft.

Design and Comfort:

When it comes to finding the perfect balance between design and comfort, the Steelcase Series 1 chair is a real “butt” kicker. Though it’s not that much curvy and tall, the space-saving design rescues people with congested professional space and compact offices.

However, with 19.5” of seat width and 36.5-41.5” of overall height, individuals of over 6ft may find it short in comparison with their body size. 

Steelcase names the Lumbar system the LiveBack flexor system that also makes it an excellent sciatic office chair. For me it was having a personal cheerleader that shouts, “Go, spine, go!” as it moves and grooves with your every posture change. I mean, who needs a chair that just sits there like a lump when you can have one that actively supports you like a superstar?

Not only does this chair have the moves, but it’s also a looker. With its sleek lines and modern aesthetic, it’s the James Bond of midrange $500 office chairs. The mesh upholstery on the backrest keeps things cool and breezy, so you won’t have a sweaty back during those intense work moments.

And let’s not forget the plushy seat with its strong yet squishy foam that molds to your body like a marshmallow cloud. It’s like sitting on a throne fit for a CEO.

Adjustability and Practicality:

The Steelcase Series 1 chair is like a Transformer of comfort, with more adjustable features than you can shake a stick at. Though it’s not chunky and chubby with the thickest seat pan, the water-fall structure kept my legs in ultimate peace. I liked the synchronized tilt mechanism that is like a well-choreographed dance routine between the seat and back, ensuring you’re always in perfect harmony with your chair.

It’s like a duet where no one steps on anyone’s toes, and you can recline like a boss without losing your balance or dignity. But it’s like an elephant in the room; plastic and limited adjustability means what I said above is only for midrange sitting sessions.

Sure, it’s not the most glamorous material, but hey, it does a fairly nice job. I mean, it’s there to save your lower back from the perils of slouching. However, fair warning, it might not be as comfortable for those marathon work sessions.

And hold on to your armrests, because these babies are fully adjustable in every direction which is an exception in this 500$ office chair category. They can do the limbo, the twist, and even the Macarena (well, maybe not that last one). Whether you want them up, down, in, out, forward, or backward, this chair has got your arm support game covered. The only gripe I had is the limited range of adjustable which is again not convenient for big boys.

Overall, the Steelcase1 isn’t the fanciest but built for practical purposes and needs.

Pros
  • Space-saving design for small offices
  • Most adjustable armrest setup in the league
  • Highest weight 400lbs limit.
  • Minimalist padding but high comfortable for midrange sitting sessions
Cons
  • Again, the plastic lumbar support doesn’t endure comfort for long sessions.

Alternatives to SteelCase1:

HON Ignition 2.0 ReActiv

While this is much similar to Hon Ignition 2.0 task, I believe this is a perfect alternative to Steelcase1 as it counter many weaknesses. With better height and width, it’s sleek but practical enough for 6ft or slightly above persons. On the other hand, the upholstery and build materials feel more premium. But Steelcase1 has an edge over ReActiv with its highly adjustable armrests as this Ignition 2.0 variant only has 2D armrest.

3. Flash Furniture Big & Tall Office Chair: Best Executive Office Chair under 500

Flash Furniture Big & Tall Office Chair

Best Selling Point of Flash Furniture:

  • Amplest Weight Limit: You worry about your weight and chair weight capacity? No? Nah, You worry! This $500 office chair makes your worry-free with 500lbs weight limit. The highest in this league!
  • Appreciable Cushioning: With 4” of seat cushioning and ample neck and shoulder part really comfy you for long sitting hours.
  • Good Build Quality: The padded armrests, chrome polished star wheel base, and elegant stitching and cushioning makes it no less than a premium executive office chair.

Who’s it for: Definitely big guys over 400lbs and 6ft, look for a purposeful executive chair under 500$, users live in relatively moderate or cooler areas

Why Do We Choose This: Are you that unfortunate guy, the heaviest on the planet, struggling to find the right office chair under $500? With a whopping weight limit of 500lbs and top-notch cushioning, this chair offers the comfort and space you’ve been searching for. While you may need to make a slight adjustment in hot conditions, trust me, it’s a small price to pay for the incredible comfort you’ll experience. Say goodbye to uncomfortable seating and hello to your new throne of comfort.

Who should avoid it: Looking for highly adjustable chair, humid and hot environment.

Design and Comfort:

Picture this: you, a larger and taller professional, sitting like a boss in this Big & Tall LeatherSoft Executive Office Chair. It’s not just any chair; it’s your throne of comfort and style.

First off, the design is all about making you feel like a million bucks. The extended upper back with an integrated headrest and built-in lumbar support is like having a personal cheerleader for your posture. It’s there to remind you to sit up straight and conquer the day like the office superhero that you are.

And I dare you, let’s not forget the seat – a luxurious 22″ wide swivel seat that’s double padded with a generous 4″ foam cushion. It’s like sitting on a cloud that’s been sprinkled with extra fluffiness.

While I researched about “LeatherSoft”, I found a delightful combination of leather and polyurethane that adds a touch of elegance and durability to this already impressive chair. It’s like having the best of both worlds – the luxurious feel of leather and the added softness and resilience of polyurethane. You’ll be sitting in the lap of office luxury, my friend.

The only thing you should keep in mind about is breathability. Humid and hot regions like Florida can make your back sweat. But you shouldn’t complain as these things come with leather stuffed chairs and it’s also not that worse at breathability.

Adjustability and Practicality:

When it comes to adjustability, this chair is like a magician with tricks up its armrests. Need a custom fit? Just reach for the pneumatic height adjustment lever, and voila! You can raise or lower the seat to your heart’s content.

Coming to the Lumbar support, it does its job in providing some excellent Support for moderate sitting sessions. But if you’re planning on pulling an all-nighter, it might not be the best companion for the long haul. It’s like that one friend who means well but might not have the stamina for a Netflix binge marathon.

But a feature that needs utmost prominence is its impressive 500-pound weight capacity. I mean, this chair can handle just about anything you throw at it – whether it’s a long day at the office or a surprise visit from your football-loving colleagues. It’s like having a chair that says, “Bring it on, world!”

With 23” of seat width it’s wider enough to hold bigger and massive guys. But this causes slight trouble! The wheels don’t rotate smoothly on carpets which you need to live with this compromise. So, if you’re the one who moves from desk-to-desk, you may struggle in that regard.

Overall, the name of the most purposeful fusion of comfort, luxury and practicality is Flash Furniture Big and Tall Office chair.

Pros
  • Highest weight limit of 500lbs in the league
  • Stuffed, fluffy, soft and comfy
  • Smooth height adjustability
  • Head and neck padding are super comfy
Cons
  • Doesn’t rock or recline
  • Wheels are not smoothly rotatable on mid-pile carpets

Alternatives to Flash Furniture

Serta Big & Tall Executive Office Chair

If you are looking for a high quality executive office chair in a much restricted budget, look nowhere but Serta big & tall office chair. Obviously, you have to compromise on weight limit and padding but that doesn’t let overall quality to nosedive. Aesthetically, it also feels as chic as a premium chair.

4. Serta Office Chair with Upgraded Wood Accents – A Decent Executive Chair with Adjustable Lumbar

Serta Big and Tall Executive Office Chair

Best Selling Points Serta Office Chair With Upgraded Wood Accents:

  • Decent Weight Limit: Though it’s not a 500lbs club member, 350lbs is more than enough for relatively chubbier guys
  • Highly Comfortable with Moderate Cushioning: Good news for those, who resist oversized executive chairs but don’t compromise on comfort
  • No slipping of Leather: While I loved stitching quality, the leather is wrinkle-free and doesn’t lose its shape.

Who’s it For: Executive chair lovers, healthy guys (not overweight), wood texture lovers, moderate sitting circumstances

 

Why Do We Choose This: While many individuals may not prefer the bulky, chunky look of executive chairs, they still prioritize comfort. Well, guess what? This Serta big and tall executive chair is the perfect solution for them. Unlike the excessively padded options, this chair strikes a balance, providing both comfort and a more streamlined appearance within the realm of big executive chairs. Featuring bonded leather and plush cushioning, it’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a touch of elegance and refinement.

Who should avoid it: Heavy weight persons over 400 lbs, professionals who sits all day long, budget users.

Design and Comfort:

Imagine walking into your office, and there it is, the Serta Big and Tall Executive Office Chair, commanding attention and exuding power. This chair is not messing around when it comes to strength and support for those of us with larger frames.

First, let’s talk about the design. This chair is a true executive statement. I mean, I really got impressed with the quality bonded leather that wraps you in a luxurious embrace.

And for wood texture lovers, Ah, there are wood accents. It adds exoticness. Also, the authentic wood accents add a touch of sophistication and give off a “boss in the corner office” vibe. It’s like having your very own power suit for your seating arrangement.

Now, let’s get to the comfort. While it’s not a layer of thick, pillowy cushions but it is always enveloping you like a cozy cloud. I always felt like sitting on a plush throne fit for royalty. Whether you’re tackling spreadsheets or engaging in intense brainstorming sessions, this chair has your back (and your bottom) covered.

Again, breathability is a little issue here like other leather stuffed chairs.

Adjustability and Practicality:

When it comes to adjustability, this chair is like a personal assistant dedicated to your ergonomic well-being. The adjustable lumbar panel is an exception there to support you during those long hours at the office. It’s like having a loyal sidekick that knows just the right spot to relieve the stress from your lower back.

Plus, the height and tilt adjustments are at your command, allowing you to find and lock in that perfect position. I literally felt it like a magic wand that grants you the power to customize your seating experience.

However, no chair is without its flaws, and this one is no exception. One downside to note is that the lumbar support is made of plastic and may not be the best option for marathon work sessions. It’s like that one hiccup in an otherwise flawless plan. But fear not, because the chair makes up for it in other impressive ways.

 The strength and sturdiness of this chair give me the confidence to tackle any task that comes my way. The non-squeaky components and wrinkle-free leather always made me in love with this chair. The weight limit isn’t extraordinary but decent to hold 350lbs at any time.

So overall, if you’re in the market for a chair that combines power, comfort, and dependability, look no further. The Serta Big and Tall Executive Office Chair is here to make a statement in your office while keeping you sitting like a true boss.

Pros
  • Robust Build quality to withstand tough circumstances
  • Decent weight limit
  • Highly comfortable despite not being heavily padded
  • Adjustable lumbar is an exceptional thing in this league
Cons
  • Slightly overpriced considering the feature set

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