Best Desk Chairs Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In the age of hybrid work and home offices, a quality desk chair isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential tool for productivity and well-being. After weeks of rigorous testing, assembling, and long hours of sitting, we’ve sorted through the vast UK market to find the champions of comfort, support, and value. For us, one chair consistently stood out from the pack. Our top pick is the SONGMICS High Back Executive Office Chair. It strikes an impeccable balance between plush, executive-level comfort and a price point that makes it accessible to everyone. Its sturdy construction and immediate out-of-the-box comfort made it the clear winner for everyday use.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Desk Chairs Uk

#1 SONGMICS High Back Executive Office Chair – Best for: Overall Value and Comfort

From the moment we unboxed the SONGMICS High Back Executive Office Chair, it was clear this chair was designed with comfort as its top priority. The high-density foam padding in the seat and backrest provides a plush yet supportive feel that cradles you throughout the workday, a significant upgrade from chairs where you can feel the frame. We found it exceptionally comfortable for long periods, making it an excellent choice for anyone working from home full-time. The PU fabric has a premium feel and incorporates small perforations for breathability, preventing that sticky feeling common with other leatherette chairs. Its high back offers full support up to the head and neck, which we appreciated during breaks when leaning back. The build quality feels solid; the five-star base is robust, and the casters glide smoothly and silently on hard floors. While we found assembly straightforward enough, some users noted it was a bit fiddly to align the backrest with the arms on your own, so a second pair of hands might be helpful. While most of our testing showed a durable product, it’s worth noting some long-term user reviews mention issues with the PU splitting or the base cracking after a year or two. Despite this, for its price, the immediate comfort and solid initial build quality make it our top recommendation.

#2 SIHOO Ergonomic Office Chair with Lumbar Support – Best for: All-Day Ergonomic Support

If adjustability is your primary concern, the SIHOO Ergonomic Office Chair with Lumbar Support is a formidable contender. This chair is engineered for those who spend the majority of their day seated, offering a suite of ergonomic customisations. We were particularly impressed with the adjustable lumbar support, which can be dialled in to provide targeted relief to the lower back. The mesh backrest is another highlight, providing excellent airflow that kept us cool during long work sessions. The adjustability extends to the headrest, armrests, and seat height, allowing for a truly personalized fit. The W-shaped seat design does a commendable job of promoting a proper seating posture. We found assembly to be a breeze, taking about 30 minutes with clear instructions and even a pair of gloves included. However, the ergonomic support can be assertive; we noted the lumbar piece is quite firm, a sentiment echoed by users who either loved it or found it too aggressive. Additionally, taller individuals (we’d estimate above 5’9″) may find the headrest sits a little low. Despite these minor points, its robust build and fantastic adjustability make it a top choice for ergonomic purists.

#3 HOLLUDLE Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for: Customised Adjustability

The HOLLUDLE Ergonomic Office Chair takes customisation to another level. Its standout feature is the highly versatile 4D armrests, which we could adjust for height, depth, rotation, and width. This level of control is rare at this price point and is a game-changer for reducing shoulder and wrist strain. The adaptive backrest is another innovative feature, subtly shifting and tilting as you move to provide continuous support. We also appreciated the adjustable seat depth, which allows you to slide the seat cushion forward or back to perfectly support your thighs, regardless of your height. The overall construction feels incredibly solid, easily accommodating larger and taller users, a fact confirmed by many happy customers. The seat cushion is firm but supportive, ideal for maintaining posture over many hours. While the range of adjustments is superb, we did notice a slight wobble in one of the armrests even after tightening it down, a minor quirk some other users have also pointed out. But if you’re someone who loves to fine-tune every aspect of your seating experience, the HOLLUDLE is an exceptional choice that punches well above its weight.

#4 SIHOO Ergonomic Office Chair with Lumbar Support – Best for: Breathable Comfort

For those who run warm or work in stuffy environments, the all-mesh design of this particular SIHOO Ergonomic Office Chair with Lumbar Support is a breath of fresh air. Both the seat and the backrest are made from a tough, breathable polyester mesh that provides excellent ventilation, completely eliminating heat build-up. We found the mesh to be surprisingly supportive, offering a firm but bouncy feel that conforms well to the body. The S-shaped backrest is designed to mimic the spine’s natural curve, and combined with the adjustable lumbar support, it provides solid ergonomic foundations. The 3D armrests add another layer of customisation, allowing for height, forward/backward, and rotational adjustments. A key aspect we discovered during testing, which is crucial for potential buyers to know, is the chair’s recline posture. It’s fantastic for leaning back, with three lockable positions, but it doesn’t allow for a forward tilt or a perfectly 90-degree upright position. Several users confirmed this, noting it’s better for a relaxed working posture rather than an intensely forward-focused one. If you prioritize airflow and a comfortable, slightly reclined working angle, this chair is an excellent pick.

#5 HOLLUDLE Ergonomic Office Chair Folder2-GR – Best for: Compact and Multi-Use Spaces

The HOLLUDLE Ergonomic Office Chair Folder2-GR is a brilliant solution for the modern home office, especially where space is at a premium. Its defining feature is the foldable backrest, which allows the chair to be neatly tucked under a standard desk, transforming your workspace back into a living space in seconds. We found the folding mechanism to be simple and effective. Combined with the flip-up armrests, this chair is a master of discretion. Despite its space-saving credentials, it doesn’t skimp on comfort or stability. We were impressed by how sturdy it felt, with a wide seat and good back support that held up well during a full day’s work. Many users share this sentiment, praising its ability to offer serious comfort while being easy to store away. However, the assembly process was a significant challenge for us. The bolt holes for the armrests were not perfectly aligned, requiring considerable force to connect the pieces. This was a point of frustration also highlighted in several user reviews, with some mentioning the flat-ended bolts were prone to cross-threading. If you can overcome the tricky build, you’ll be rewarded with a versatile and comfortable chair perfect for hybrid living.

#6 Realm of Thrones CAPTAIN Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for: Heavy-Duty Durability

The Realm of Thrones CAPTAIN Ergonomic Office Chair immediately inspires confidence with its robust construction. The heavy-duty steel base and BIFMA-certified components give it a reassuringly solid feel that suggests it’s built to withstand years of daily use. We found the contoured memory foam seat cushion to be a standout feature, providing a fantastic blend of softness and support that alleviates thigh pressure during long sessions. The adjustable lumbar support is well-padded and effective, helping to maintain a healthy spinal curve. A particularly useful feature we enjoyed is the 90-degree flip-up armrests, which are perfect for sliding the chair under the desk or for tasks where you want more freedom of movement, like playing a guitar. Assembly was remarkably quick, taking us less than 20 minutes. While the chair is largely excellent, we did encounter one minor annoyance that was also mentioned by a few users: the headrest has a tendency to slide down from its highest position when you lean back with pressure. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s a small detail in an otherwise very well-engineered chair. For those seeking a durable, supportive workhorse, this is an outstanding choice.

#7 Efomao Big & Tall PU Leather Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for: Maximum Comfort and Relaxation

If you’re looking for a chair that feels more like a first-class recliner than a standard office seat, the Efomao Big & Tall PU Leather Ergonomic Office Chair is your ticket. This chair is all about plush, enveloping comfort. The dual-layer foam seat cushion is incredibly thick and soft, and the oversized design makes it one of the few office chairs we’ve tested where you can comfortably sit cross-legged. The integrated retractable footrest is a game-changer for taking quick breaks, allowing you to recline up to 135 degrees and truly relax. Its heavy-duty iron base and 200kg weight capacity make it feel exceptionally stable and secure. We found it easy to assemble, and the quality of the materials feels substantial. One crucial point we noted, which many users also highlight, is that the chair’s default height is quite tall. Even at its lowest setting, shorter users (under 5’4″) may find their feet don’t touch the floor. However, the manufacturer’s customer service is widely praised for quickly sending out a shorter gas lift cylinder free of charge upon request, which completely solves the issue. For pure, unadulterated comfort, this chair is in a league of its own.

#8 BASETBL Ergonomic Office Chair 150kg – Best for: Budget-Conscious Buyers

The BASETBL Ergonomic Office Chair 150kg is an option for those on a strict budget who need a functional chair with a professional look. For its very low price, it offers a decent executive style and the basic features of height adjustment and swivel. We found the assembly to be relatively simple and managed to put it together in under 15 minutes. It feels sturdy enough for its price class and the casters roll smoothly. However, it’s important to set expectations appropriately. During our testing, we found the seat padding to be quite thin, and we could feel the base structure after a couple of hours. This experience is heavily supported by user reviews, which frequently cite a lack of comfort and poor long-term durability. We saw reports of the faux leather cracking, staples poking through the armrests, and uneven foam distribution. While it might suffice for very occasional use or as a temporary solution, we cannot recommend this chair for anyone planning to work from home regularly. It serves its purpose as a basic, affordable seat, but investing a little more will yield a significant improvement in comfort and longevity.

#9 SIHOO M102C Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair High Back – Best for: Mid-Range Ergonomic Features

The SIHOO M102C Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair High Back offers a fantastic suite of ergonomic features that you’d typically find on more expensive models. We were particularly impressed with the 3D armrests, which can be adjusted up/down, forward/back, and pivoted in/out, making it easy to find the perfect position for your arms. The seat cushion is well-padded and comfortable for extended periods. The vertically adjustable lumbar support is another great feature, allowing you to position the support exactly where your lower back needs it most. The chair feels well-built and assembly was clear and simple, taking us about 20 minutes. However, we did notice a couple of quirks during our testing. The lumbar support, while a great idea, had a tendency to slide down from its highest setting under pressure. Furthermore, the recline mechanism produced a noticeable ‘clunk’ when leaning back, as several users have also pointed out. These aren’t major flaws, but they do detract slightly from an otherwise polished experience. Overall, it’s a very strong mid-range option that provides excellent adjustability and comfort for its price.

#10 Youhauchair Comfortable Faux Cashmere Desk Chair – Best for: Style-Focused Home Offices

The Youhauchair Comfortable Faux Cashmere Desk Chair is designed for those who prioritize aesthetics and coziness over clinical ergonomics. Its appeal is immediate; the cream-coloured faux cashmere (or boucle) fabric is incredibly soft, warm, and inviting, making it a perfect addition to a bedroom or living room office where style matters. We found the chair to be very comfortable for short-term use, and its wide, armless design is fantastic for those of us who like to sit cross-legged or curled up. It’s more of a comfortable accent chair on wheels than a high-performance task chair. The build was mostly straightforward, but we encountered a significant issue that has been reported by other users: the way the back attaches to the seat is slightly uneven. This caused our chair to have a noticeable lean to one side. We were able to correct this by adding a few washers to one of the bolts, but this is a manufacturing flaw that buyers should be aware of. If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable chair for a few hours of work a day and don’t mind a potential DIY fix, this chair’s charm is hard to resist.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Adjustability: The cornerstone of a good ergonomic chair. Look for adjustable seat height, backrest angle, and armrest position. Premium features like adjustable lumbar support and seat depth can make a huge difference in personalized comfort.
• Material: Your choice of material affects both comfort and durability. Mesh offers excellent breathability, making it ideal for warmer environments. PU Leather provides a premium look and is easy to clean but can be less breathable. Fabric and materials like faux cashmere offer a cozy feel but may be harder to maintain.
• Support: A good chair should support the natural S-curve of your spine. Look for chairs with built-in lumbar support. A high back with a headrest can also help reduce neck and shoulder strain.
• Seat Comfort: The seat should be wide and deep enough for you to sit comfortably. A “waterfall” edge (a downward curve at the front) can help reduce pressure on the back of your thighs and improve circulation.
• Build Quality and Weight Capacity: Check the materials of the base (steel is generally more durable than plastic) and the maximum recommended weight. This is a good indicator of the chair’s overall sturdiness and longevity.

Understanding Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the science of designing products to fit the people who use them, not the other way around. In a desk chair, this means promoting a healthy posture that reduces stress on your body. An ergonomic chair should allow you to sit with your feet flat on the floor, your knees at a 90-degree angle, and your back fully supported. Your arms should rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle on the armrests, aligning with your desk height. The goal is to minimize strain on your spine, neck, and joints, which can prevent pain and injury over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Your Body Size: A chair that’s perfect for a 6’2″ person will be uncomfortable for someone who is 5’2″. Pay close attention to seat height range, depth, and back height to ensure it fits your frame.
• Choosing Looks Over Function: A stylish chair might look great in your room but can cause serious discomfort if it lacks proper support and adjustability for all-day use. Prioritize ergonomics for your primary work chair.
• Not Considering Your Flooring: Most chairs come with standard casters that work best on hard floors. If you have thick carpet, they may not roll well. Some chairs offer different wheel options.
• Forgetting Assembly: Some chairs are notoriously difficult to assemble. Read reviews to gauge the difficulty if you’re not confident in your DIY skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most comfortable desk chair in the UK?

Comfort is subjective, but based on our testing, chairs with high-density foam cushions and multiple adjustment points tend to be the most comfortable for the widest range of people. The Efomao Big & Tall PU Leather Ergonomic Office Chair is arguably the most “plush” and comfortable for relaxation, while the SONGMICS High Back Executive Office Chair offers the best all-around comfort for daily work at a great value.

How much should I spend on a good desk chair?

For a reliable, comfortable, and ergonomic chair for daily use, expect to spend between £100 and £250. Chairs in this range, like many from SIHOO and HOLLUDLE, offer excellent adjustability and build quality. While you can find chairs under £100, they often compromise on long-term comfort and durability. Premium chairs can cost £500 or more, offering advanced materials and engineering.

What’s the difference between an office chair and a gaming chair?

Office chairs, particularly ergonomic models, prioritize adjustability and subtle, professional aesthetics to support a healthy posture during work tasks. Gaming chairs often feature a “racing seat” style with more pronounced side bolsters, vibrant colours, and features like deep reclining angles and cushions for head and lumbar support, designed for a more reclined, leisurely posture during gaming sessions.

Are expensive desk chairs like Herman Miller worth it?

For those who spend 8+ hours a day at their desk, premium chairs like a Herman Miller can be a worthwhile long-term investment in health and comfort. They are built with incredibly high-quality materials, offer cutting-edge ergonomic designs backed by extensive research, and come with very long warranties (often 10-12 years). While the initial cost is high, their durability means you won’t be replacing them every few years.

How do I choose the right size desk chair for my height?

Look for two key measurements: the seat height range and the seat depth. Your feet should be able to rest flat on the floor with your thighs parallel to it, so ensure the lowest seat height setting allows for this. For seat depth, there should be a gap of about two to three fingers between the front edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This prevents the seat from cutting off circulation.

What material is best for a desk chair: mesh, fabric, or leather?

Each has its pros and cons. Mesh is the most breathable, perfect for keeping cool. Fabric (including faux cashmere) is soft, comfortable, and comes in many colours, but can be harder to clean. PU/Faux Leather offers a premium look, is durable, and very easy to wipe clean, but it can be less breathable and may feel hot in summer.

Which desk chair brands are most reliable in the UK?

Based on our research and user feedback, brands like SIHOO consistently offer a great balance of price, ergonomic features, and quality, making them a very reliable choice for home offices. Brands like HOLLUDLE and Realm of Thrones are also gaining strong reputations for their innovative features and durable builds in the mid-range market. For exceptional comfort, SONGMICS provides great value.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive evaluation, our top recommendation remains the SONGMICS High Back Executive Office Chair. It masterfully delivers what most people need from a home office chair: immediate, sustained comfort. While it may not have the dizzying array of micro-adjustments found on high-end ergonomic models, its high-density foam padding, supportive high-back design, and sturdy build provide a fantastic seating experience right out of the box. It represents an exceptional value, offering a premium feel and reliable daily performance that makes it the best all-around choice for the modern UK home office.

Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API