Building a comfortable and supportive workspace doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. Top budget friendly Ergonomic office chairs under $150 can deliver plenty of comfort, support, and even a few surprises you might not expect at this price point.
If you spend a lot of time working at your desk, you’re probably aware of the aches and pains that come from a chair that just isn’t built for long sessions. Good news: with careful research and a focus on the right features, you can find a cheap ergonomic chair that makes a real difference for your posture and day-to-day well-being.
I’ve tested and researched a range of affordable ergonomic chairs and put together this guide to help you pick the best one for your budget. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing a great ergonomic office chair without breaking the bank, plus reviews of top picks that regularly come in under $150.
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Why Ergonomics Matter, Even on a Budget
Ergonomic chairs are built to support your back, keep your posture in check, and make hours at your desk feel less like a marathon. Some premium ergonomic chairs come with hefty price tags. Still, you can get a chair that ticks most of the important boxes for back support and lasting comfort on a budget.
The biggest things I look for when reviewing budget ergonomic office chairs:
- Adjustability: Being able to tweak seat height, tilt, and lumbar support makes a big difference.
- Lumbar Support: A chair should support the curve in your lower back. Many budget chairs now include this feature.
- Breathable Materials: Mesh and other breathable fabrics help you stay cool throughout long workdays.
- Sturdy Build: Even on the low end, a well-built chair should feel stable and secure.
After a long day in front of a screen, sitting in an ergonomic chair that fits your body will greatly prevent those unpleasant aches and pains. Even basic adjustments, like changing seat height and tilt, can let you set up your workspace so it works for you, not against you.
If you’re new to ergonomic setups, take five minutes to test these adjustments every time you switch chairs—it pays dividends for comfort in the long run.
Top Budget Ergonomic Office Chairs Under $150 Reviewed
IKEA Markus Office Chair
The IKEA Markus is one of those chairs you see popping up in home offices everywhere, and for good reason. It offers a mesh backrest for breathability, an adjustable height gas lift, and a fairly comfortable seat for the price.
The built-in lumbar support isn’t fully movable, but it does provide enough back support for most users. The high back adds some support for your shoulders and neck too.
Although the Markus isn’t the most luxurious chair available, I’ve discovered that it looks good in most configurations and is useful for extended work sessions.
- Pros: High back, sturdy, sleek design, good lumbar support for most users
- Cons: Armrests aren’t adjustable, not the softest seat cushion
IKEA Flintan Office Chair
The Flintan is the Markus’s smaller cousin. It comes with a breathable mesh back and a nicely padded seat, which is definitely comfortable for hours of use. The tilt function is adjustable, letting you lock the chair in place or lean when you need a stretch.
Armrests are sold separately, so if you need them, you’ll need to order them as an add-on. The lumbar support is simple, but it helps maintain a healthy sitting posture. If you’re working with a tight space, Flintan’s compact frame fits well without taking over the whole room.
- Pros: Affordable, tilt and lock function, surprisingly sturdy, compact design
- Cons: Armrests not included, lumbar support is basic
You can check this chair out here!
Niceday Ergonomic Office Chair
The well-padded seat and back of Niceday’s ergonomic office chair, along with its movable lumbar support, make it stand out. The mesh design helps keep things cool even on hot days, and the chair is lightweight but sturdy and simple to assemble.
The adjustable headrest is a welcome feature, especially if you want some extra neck support when leaning back. The flip-up armrests are pretty handy if you want to tuck the chair right under your desk.
- Pros: Adjustable headrest and lumbar support, flip-up armrests, good for tall users
- Cons: Armrests lack padding, may not suit users who prefer firm chairs
Life Carver Mesh Office Chair
Life Carver’s mesh office chair gets the basics right, with a supportive ergonomic back design and a thick, comfy seat cushion. I like the adjustable seat height and the rocking function, which makes it easy to stretch between emails.
The flip-up armrests let you get extra close to your work surface, and the mesh back keeps airflow going. This chair feels sturdy for its price, but just be aware that the lumbar support is fixed rather than adjustable.
- Pros: Breathable mesh back, thick cushion, flip-up arms, easy assembly
- Cons: Fixed lumbar support, may feel narrow for larger users
SIHOO M18 Ergonomic Office Chair
The SIHOO M18 packs features you’d usually see in a pricier model, like an adjustable headrest, movable armrests, and adjustable lumbar support. The seat is comfortable, and the mesh back keeps things breezy.
The tilt lock and tension control give you more ways to relax during long workdays. It has a supportive high back and feels solid yet flexible. Some users say the build quality feels above its price point, which is always a great bonus when you’re budget shopping.
Pros: Tons of adjustability, comfy seat, headrest and lumbar support, solid build for the price- Cons: Assembly takes a bit longer, mesh can be stiff for some users
Costway Ergonomic High Back Swivel Office Chair
Costway’s ergonomic swivel chair is a favorite for anyone who wants plush padding and all-day comfort. The waterfall edge on the seat reduces pressure on your thighs. You also get customizable seat height and tilt, with armrests that are padded and fixed.
The mesh back panel is a nice touch, offering airflow so you’re not sweating through afternoon calls. Assembly is straightforward, and the chair holds up well even for bigger users. While the armrests aren’t adjustable, their padding makes up for it.
- Pros: Well-cushioned seat, padded armrests, decent tilt or recline for the price, simple assembly
- Cons: Armrests not adjustable, basic lumbar support
These aren’t the only options under $150. Many generic models also offer ergonomic touches, like flipside armrests or adjustable seats.
As online-only brands spread fast, it’s worth checking reviews and warranty details to make sure you’re picking a chair that will last through everyday wear and tear.
Key Features to Look For in Budget Ergonomic Chairs
Adjustability
Having an office chair with adjustable features lets you dial in the comfort to suit your body. When shopping under $150, the main things you’ll usually be able to change are seat height, tilt tension, and maybe armrest height or position. Adjustable lumbar support is getting more common; you’ll feel the difference if you sit for hours.
Seat Comfort
Look for a seat that’s padded but not too soft. You want something that stays comfy all day but doesn’t flatten after a month.
The waterfall seat edges, where the front of the seat slopes downward, also benefit your legs by increasing circulation, which is crucial if you spend a lot of time sitting down.
Material and Build
Mesh backs are a great choice, keeping things breathable so your workspace never feels stuffy. For those who want something cushier, some budget chairs come with fabric or faux leather finishes, but mesh usually wins out for airflow.
Check if the base feels sturdy and, if possible, try to choose metal parts over plastic to get a more solid feel.
As you evaluate options, check the weight capacity and measurements to ensure a proper fit. Ergonomic benefits only work if the seat and backrest suit your height and frame, so don’t skip those details when shopping.
Final Thoughts
Getting a comfortable, supportive office chair under $150 is totally possible. Many budget models pack in key ergonomic features, like mesh backs, adjustable lumbar, and comfy padding.
These can make a huge difference for daily comfort, even if you’re spending five or six hours a day at your desk. Take a little time to check return policies and measurements for your space so that you end up with something you’ll truly enjoy using.
Whether you go for a classic like the IKEA Markus or try out less popular picks like the SIHOO M18 or Niceday, your back (and your wallet) will thank you for weighing these budget friendly options.
Got a favorite cheap ergonomic chair to recommend? I’d love to hear about it! And remember, doing your research now can save you from discomfort—and wasted money—down the line.
That’s it for now peeps, have a great day!
