Tips for Finding the Ideal Height for Your Office Chair

You'll most likely be sitting in an office chair with a desk and computer in front of you right now. When we're in the zone at work, we tend to slump into unhealthy positions. Most of us have unusual habits of sitting or standing that cause unnecessary strain on our bodies.

Therefore, it’s crucial to set the ideal standard chair height and position of your office chair that’ll allow you to complete hours of work without any fatigue. Let’s read on to find out more on such chairs!

1. What Is the Standard Chair Height?

To ensure optimal comfort and ergonomics, adjusting your office chair to the correct height is crucial. Here's a comprehensive guide presented in a table format to help you adjust your office chair height based on your height. If you’re interested in specifics about office chair dimensions, there’s detailed information available to help you choose the right chair.

It’s not possible to generalize about chair height preferences because everyone is different, though the standard seat height of a chair seat can be described in several ways.

In North America, the standard desk height is 29", however, there’s no standard chair height. Different office chairs have different average chair height ranges, but if you measure from the seat to the floor, the typical computer chair height range is 16" to 21".

Note the above office chairs are standard ergonomic office chairs. Some ergonomic big and tall office chairs can be adjusted beyond 21”. Other types of office chairs, including drafting chairs, have a higher range of desk chair heights.

Typically, a traditional office chair will be set at a height that encourages a slack back and knees at a correct angle while seated (90 degrees). Chairs at workplaces are at least 15" from the ground, however, the fixed average chair height is 17" high. Also, there are office chairs for short people that can go as low as 14.5”.

While adjustable ergonomic office chairs typically range from 17" to 21" in height. These values are optimal for computer or desk seats; however, there are recliners and massage office chairs that go even higher. High back office chairs can strain the area just below the knee, while the smaller ones that are too low can cause problems for the pelvis and hips.

2. Does the Ideal Office Chair Height Exist?

From an ergonomic standpoint, office chair manufacturers have built office chairs with optimized height to ease negative health effects on your thighs, shoulders, lower back, neck, and even arms. This allows you to work comfortably, ultimately boosting your productivity.

Here’s how the ideal office chair seat height should look like when you’re seated:

• Your feet should firmly touch the floor and your knees should be bent at 90 degrees. If your chair is too high and your feet dangle, consider using chair leg extenders or an appropriate footrest to achieve the correct posture.
• If you’re working on the computer, your forearms should be at the same height and parallel to your desk, and your elbows should assume a 90 – 110 degrees open-angle.

The two parts above don’t always coexist harmoniously, which makes creating an ergonomic workstation trickly but not impossible.

3. Factors to Consider When Calculating the Ideal Chair Height

When you’re using an office chair instead of a floor chair or desk chair with no wheels, there are certain suggestions that you should keep in mind while performing typical office tasks such as writing or using a computer. At this point, you know there are two outcomes that you should look for to achieve the ideal desk chair seat height. Let’s focus now on how to achieve each outcome.

3.1. Two Feet Firmly Touching the Ground

While sitting on your target office chair, adjust the height lever until your feet touch the floor completely. And keep your knees are at a 90-degree angle. Don’t over lower your chair because this will exert pressure on your sit bones.

Raise or lower the seat’s height adjuster until your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. It’s important to avoid putting too much weight on your gluteal bones by lowering your chair too far.

Another way to find the best desk chair height where your feet are touching the floor is by standing up. This allows you to assess a chair quickly when you’re shopping in a store.

To find the perfect office chair seat height, stand in front of the chair. Adjust its height so that the top of the seat or cushion is just below your kneecap. If your chair tends to sink and won't maintain the set height, here’s a guide on why your chair keeps going down and how to fix it.

3.2. Forearms Parallel to Your Desk

The second part of finding the ideal computer chair height, especially if you work a lot on your computer, is to make sure your forearms are at the right height and parallel to your desk.

Check that your arms are at a comfortable level. You can modify your chair's height such that your elbows make a right angle of 90 to 110 degrees. Additionally, make a few more tweaks to the height until your forearms are either parallel to or slant slightly toward your desk. Continue adjusting your chair’s height so your forearms rise above your desk and are parallel with or slopping slightly towards your desk.

You'll be able to unhunch your shoulders and settle into a more natural position after you find the ideal seat height, and your wrists will be in a more natural, comfortable resting place. Arm tiredness and RSIs like carpal tunnel can be avoided with these simple posture adjustments. This prevents repetitive syndrome injuries, such as carpal tunnel over time, and reduces arm and wrists fatigue.

But raising your chair to accommodate your arms may cause your feet to dangle off the floor. The solution? Using a footrest can prop them up. It’s easier to accommodate your feet position than your arm’s; however, without a keyboard tray or a height-adjustable desk; this is hard to do.

3.3. Seat Inclination

Ideally, standard seat height will allow you to lean forward, and this feature is standard on any chair in the ergonomic office chair market. Use a seat wedge if your chair doesn't have this feature. For those dealing with an uncomfortable chair, these adjustments can make a significant difference.

When your knees are at a 90-degree angle or more, your torso slumps backward, increasing pressure on your thoracic and spinal discs and making it harder for you to breathe. Therefore, by moving your pelvis forward, you can restore the natural curves in your spine and alleviate back discomfort by sitting with your hips higher than your knees. Keep in mind that slouching can cause the reversal of your normal spinal curves.

3.4. Help for the Low Back

To prevent yourself from slumping forward or slouching down in your chair as fatigue sets in, it's important that your bottom is forced against the backrest of your chair and that your lower back arch slightly due to a cushion.

The back support of your leather executive office chair is crucial for reducing stress on your lower back during the day. One should never slouch forward in their chair at work, as this creates unnecessary pressure on the vertebrae and discs in the lower back.

So, set the chair seat height to match the above posture.

If your office chair won’t recline or offers inadequate back support, this can lead to increased pressure on your spine, so it's crucial to address these issues.

3.5. The Perfect Eye-resting Gaze

Relax and close your eyes while facing forward in your chair. Start by opening your eyes a little at a time. The sweet spot for your eyes to land is exactly on the center of the screen. You should raise or lower your computer screen if your gaze is drawn to the top or bottom of the display.

4. What Help You Achieve the Ideal Chair Height

4.1. Height Adjustable Desks

Height adjustable desks are becoming a popular trend in many American workplaces. They limit the time you spend sitting, which starves off a variety of potential health risks.

In most modern offices, you can find a desk that can be adjusted to various heights. A height-adjustable desk allows users to set the optimal working height for their keyboard, monitor, and mouse. Adjusting the desk’s height to meet your needs is simple and easy, always go with the setting that makes you feel most at ease.

Also, it helps you to maintain the right desk chair height because you can raise or lower it to accommodate your height requirements. Adjustable desks allow you to find a good working posture. Many health problems, such as back pain, can be avoided by simply finding a comfortable sitting position for lengthy periods of time at work.

Therefore, your ergonomic workstation must include an ergonomic adjustable desk such as the SmartDesk 2 that can be electronically adjusted.

SmartDesk 2

3335 reviews

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Top description

Top	Classic Top
Dimensions	53"L x 29"W x 1"H
Shipping dimensions	56"L x 33"W x 3"H x 47 lbs
Colors	White, Black, Walnut, White Oak, Bamboo
Material	Warp-proof MDF wood Natural Bamboo

 

Frame description

Motor type	Dual	Dual
Lifting speed	1.1”/sec	2.3”/sec
Lifting capacity	250 lbs	310 lbs
Noise level	45 dB	40 dB
Height range (without top)	27.2" - 46.5"	25.2" - 51"
Height range (with top)	28.3" - 47.5"	26.2" - 52"
Length range	39.8'' - 59''	40" - 73"
Frame foot width	23.6''	27.5"
Material	SPCC steel	SPCC steel
Colors	White, Black	White, Black, Grey
Outlet voltage	110-240V	110-240V
Anti - collision	Yes	Yes
Shipping dimensions	39"L x 11"W x 9"H x 51 lbs	43"L x 13"W x 10"H x 70 lbs

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Offers Standard (2-stage) and Max (3-stage) frames to suit different needs.	Standard model's height range may not suit very tall or short users.
Height range from 25.2" to 51" with memory settings.	Limited surface size (53"x29").
Supports up to 310 lbs, ideal for heavy setups.	Assembly might be more complex and time-consuming
Quiet operation at 40-45 dB.
Made with sustainable FSC-certified materials.
Sturdy build: SPCC steel, ANSI/BIFMA certified.
Anti-collision technology for safety.
Quick assembly: 10-20 minutes.
Warranty: 10 years on the frame, 1 year on the top.

 

• 

  "This desk is sturdy and really easy to assemble. It's definitely an upgrade from my old setup." - Azeria
• 

  "I love the minimalistic style and stand/sit functionality! Much better than my old mechanical converter apparatus if you know what I’m talking about." - Maggie
• 

  "The bamboo desktop finish is beautiful. Love it." - Nikki

4.2. Ergonomic Chair

For those who spend at least eight hours a day sitting at a desk, an ergonomic chair can be the most comfortable office chair for long hours and will make all the difference in the world. Flexibility and productivity can be maintained using ergonomic features like adjustable lumbar support and seat depth.

The Autonomous ErgoChair Pro is ergonomically made to support your back, alleviate pain, and set the average chair height according to your body. These adjustable features can help employees to move around the chair so everyone can use it.

It can be paired with other office accessories like casters or chair mats for carpet to protect your floors while moving your ergonomic chair.

ErgoChair Pro

2790 reviews

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Specs

Dimensions	29”L x 29”W x 46” - 50”H
Seat dimensions	20”L x 20”W
Seat height	18” - 20”
Back dimensions (w/o headrest)	21”W x 22”H
Back dimensions (with headrest)	21”W x 28” - 31”H
Tilt range	22°
Armrest height	11” - 14”
Armrest height (from the floor)	26.7” - 32.2”
Caster wheel diameter	2.36 inches
Number of caster wheels	5 pieces
Materials	Polyester fabric with molded foam interior and durable nylon plastic frame; PU handrest pads.
Colors	Cool Gray, Evergreen, All Black Red Apple, Black & White, Baby Blue
Weight capacity	300 lbs
Item weight	48.5 lbs
Shipping dimensions	29”L x 27”W x 19”H x 67 lbs
Assembly required	Yes
Warranty	2 years
Free returns	30 days The trial and return policy does NOT apply to products on sale.
Adjustability	Headrest, armrest, back tilt angle and tension, seat tilt and height.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
9 adjustable points, including headrest, armrests, and seat height, ensure personalized comfort.	Assembly required: May be challenging for some users.
Synchro-tilt mechanism: Reclines at a 2-to-1 ratio for balanced lower back and leg support.	Weighs 48.5 lbs, making it harder to move.
Breathable mesh: Prevents overheating, keeping you cool and focused.
Flexible lumbar cushion: Adapts to your spine's curve, reducing pain and stiffness.
Available in multiple stylish colors.
Supports up to 300 lbs with a durable nylon plastic frame.

 

• 

  "With its cutting-edge design and customizable features, this ergonomic masterpiece takes my comfort to a whole new level. The adjustable lumbar support ensures optimal posture, while the breathable mesh keeps me cool during those intense work sessions. But it doesn’t stop there! The ErgoChair Pro’s intuitive controls allow me to find the perfect seating position, whether I’m typing away or brainstorming creative ideas. Plus, the premium padding provides heavenly comfort, making those long hours at the desk feel like a breeze." - Christopher A.
• 

  "I would highly recommend you start with this chair The ErgoChair Pro is fully adjustable, completely supportive, and super breathable. You can adjust pretty much anything including the height, armrest, headrest, backrest and even the seat tilt. It’s got 5 lockable recline positions and even comes with flexible lumbar support for any seated position. One of my most favourite features of the Ergochair Pro is actually the woven mesh back. On the occasions where I am seated for many hours, the mesh back keeps me chilled and helps me focus on my work for a longer period of time." - Panayiotis G.
• 

  "Worth the upgrade Currently, I'm using an ergonomic chair, and it's incredibly comfortable and well worth the investment. It has made a noticeable difference in my daily comfort and productivity. I'm also planning to upgrade to a standing desk to further enhance my workspace."

  - Polina P.

ErgoChair Ultra

736 reviews

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Specs

Dimensions	28”L x 28”W x 40” - 44”H
Seat dimensions	19”L x 19”W
Seat height	17” - 21”
Back dimensions	20”W x 23”H
Tilt range	25°

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
3D printed support: Unique 62-spring matrix offers superior sit-bone support.	Setup might be challenging.
Adaptive backrest: Flexible ribs adjust to your movements.
Advanced lumbar support: Ensures proper spine alignment and mobility.
Breathable air mesh keeps you cool.
Lightweight 35.3 lbs, easy to move.
Available in multiple color combinations.

 

• 

  "Supportive chair with cool design This design reminds me of the famous Embody chair. The Ultra offers many of the same functions as the Embody at half the price. The backrest design and material adapt to your body's movements, providing greater comfort for long periods of sitting. Additionally, the suspension system in the seat makes it more supportive and bouncy compared to other foam seat chairs." - Jesse C.
• 

  "This chair is a perfect match for my recent setup, and it is incredibly comfortable for long hours of sitting." - Andrea C.
• 

  "Cool material with unique back support I feel pretty cool sitting in this chair thanks to its material. The back support has a unique design and excels in its function."

  - Lee L.

ErgoChair Ultra V2

10 reviews

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Specs

Dimensions (w/o headrest)	28”L x 28”W x 41” - 46”H
Dimensions (with headrest)	28”L x 28”W x 49” - 58”H
Seat dimensions	18”L x 18”W
Seat depth range	18” - 20.5”
Seat height	18” - 23”
Headrest	8" - 12"
Back dimensions	20”W x 23”H
Tilt range	25°
Armrest height	7” - 11”
Armrest height (from the floor)	23.5” - 27.7”
Caster wheel diameter	2.56 inches
Number of caster wheels	5 pieces
Materials	100% TPE and polyester fabric upholstery with ABS plastic frame, aluminium base
Colors	Onyx Black, Dover Gray
Weight capacity	320 lbs
Item weight	36.5 lbs
Shipping dimensions	28”L x 17”W x 31”H x 45 lbs

 

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
4-layer fusion seat and adaptive backrest provide excellent support and comfort.	Premium price tag.
The mesh layer and high-density foam keep the user cool and comfortable during extended periods of use.	Assembly required.
Adjustable and customizable features, are easy to adjust and customize to individual preferences.	Limited color options.
The new aluminum base provides a sturdy foundation and increased weight capacity.
The chair's design encourages optimal posture alignment, reducing strain and discomfort.

 

4.3. Keyboard Tray

To save you the trouble of reaching for your keyboard, an office item known as a keyboard tray may bring it right to you. A keyboard tray helps to bring your keyboard to you so you don’t have to adjust your chair or desk. It’s an essential ergonomic accessory that adds pressure on a few muscles and tendons. 

There is usually no need to modify your workstation's chair or desk to use a keyboard tray, and there is no such thing as an ergonomic workplace without a keyboard tray. Therefore, the Mount-It! Keyboard Tray can be the perfect match for your workplace setup.

Mount-It! Clamp-On Keyboard Tray

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Specifications

Dimensions	26.4" L x 11.8" D
Compatibility	With most keyboards on the market
Color	Black
Warranty	10 years

4.4. Monitor Arm

A monitor arm is a highly adjustable accessory that attaches to your office desk with a bolt-through or clamp mount. A monitor arm is a flexible arm that holds your screen and attaches to your desk, typically by a bolt-through or clamp installation. Your monitor's position can be altered during the day after you've set up your monitor arm, which is great for your eyes and neck.

Thus, with a monitor arm, you can maintain your chair at the right desk chair height because you can easily adjust your monitor as needed throughout the day. This allows you to work at the correct height range. Also, you can adjust the monitor arm to your preferred position to ease eye and neck pain while maintaining a healthy posture. The Autonomous Monitor Arm can be swiveled to any desired working position on the 360-degree monitor arm.

Monitor Arm

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Specifications

Dimensions	18”L x 19”H
Colors	Black
Materials	Aluminium
Weight capacity	26 lbs
Item weight	6 lbs
Warranty	2 years

4.5. Footrest

A footrest prevents your feet from dangling and it elevates your feet at a height comfortable for your body. With a footrest, you can eliminate the desk chair height problem.

ErgoFoam Adjustable Foot Rest

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Specifications

Dimensions	17.3”L x 11.8”W x 5.9”H
Materials	Pet-friendly breathable mesh
Colors	Black
Warranty	Lifetime

5. Common Mistakes People Make When Adjusting Their Office Chair Height

• Neglecting Arm Position

One of the most overlooked aspects when setting up your office chair is the position of your arms. The ideal chair height ensures that your forearms are parallel to the desk and your elbows are at a 90-degree angle. Many people either raise their chair too high or too low, which can lead to unnecessary strain on the shoulders and neck. Adjust your chair so that your arms rest comfortably, and consider adding a chair posture corrector if you notice that you're slouching or leaning forward excessively.

• Ignoring Foot Placement

Another common mistake is failing to ensure that your feet are flat on the floor. When your chair is too high, your feet dangle, putting pressure on your thighs and lower back. Conversely, if your chair is too low, you may experience strain on your knees and legs. Adjust your chair so that your feet rest firmly on the ground, forming a 90-degree angle at your knees. If your chair height doesn’t allow for this, consider using an office chair height extender or a footrest.

• Overlooking Back Support

A properly adjusted chair height should allow you to use your chair's lumbar support fully. However, many people fail to adjust their chair to a height that supports their lower back, leading to slouching and back pain. Make sure your chair's backrest supports the natural curve of your spine. If your office chair won’t lean back or doesn't provide adequate support, it may be time for an upgrade or adjustment.

• Setting the Chair Height Based on Desk Height Alone

While it might seem logical to adjust your chair height based on the desk height, this approach often leads to discomfort. Instead, adjust the chair height based on your body, ensuring that your feet are flat on the floor, and your arms are at a comfortable angle. If your desk is too high or too low after adjusting your chair, consider a height-adjustable desk or adding a chair cylinder to modify your chair's height range.

• Not Considering Personal Body Dimensions

Many people make the mistake of assuming that one chair height fits all. However, your height, leg length, and torso length all play a significant role in determining the ideal chair height. For instance, office chairs for tall people typically need a higher seat height and a deeper seat depth, while office chairs for short people require the opposite. Be sure to adjust your chair height to suit your unique body dimensions.

6. Personalizing Your Workspace for Comfort Based on Your Body Type

• Understanding Your Body Type

Personalizing your workspace starts with understanding your body type. Whether you’re tall, short, or have specific needs like lower back pain, the ideal chair height and adjustments can vary. For shorter individuals, lowering the chair and possibly using a office chair with leg rest will help maintain proper posture.

• Customizing Chair Settings

Adjust your chair’s settings to match your body type. This includes setting the seat height so that your feet rest flat on the ground and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. The backrest should be adjusted to support the natural curve of your spine. If you find your chair lacks proper adjustability, consider reading about office chair adjustments to explore the best options available. If you're having trouble with slouching, this guide on task chair vs. office chair might help you understand which type of chair provides better ergonomic support.

• Enhancing Comfort with Accessories

Sometimes, your chair alone might not meet all your ergonomic needs. Adding accessories like lumbar pillows, seat cushions can enhance your comfort. If your office chair won’t stay up or your back isn’t getting the support it needs, these accessories can make a significant difference.

Remember, your office chair is an investment in your health, so take the time to adjust it properly and consider all aspects, from the Autonomous office chair dimensions to adding the right accessories for optimal support.

For those who often struggle with discomfort, learning how to make your office chair more comfortable can also offer valuable insights into further enhancing your workspace. Take the time to make the necessary adjustments today, and your body will thank you tomorrow!

Final Thoughts

The office chair seat height is crucial in creating an ergonomic workspace. Knowing the standard chair height that works best can do wonders for your comfort and efficiency. If you adjust your chair’s height properly, it’s much easier to align the desk and monitor, keyboard, and mouse correctly.

Sitting for extended periods often results in excessive and one-sided lower-back strain, irritating pain, and poor concentration. However, adjusting your desk chair height correctly is crucial in achieving a healthy sitting posture. Having the right seat height not only helps you achieve a comfortable, ergonomic sitting posture, but it also helps you get in and out of your chair easily. No ideal height can work for everyone, so we've laid down some suggestions above to help you discover it! To learn more about avoiding slouching, which often results from poor arm positioning, check out these strategies to kick slouching in chairs.

For further insights on optimizing your office chair settings, consider exploring Autonomous chair adjustments to tailor your seating to perfection.