One of the most widely used categories of office chairs is mesh. No other type of upholstery can match the unique sitting experience and aesthetic that mesh offers. The number of mesh office chairs available is in the thousands due to their widespread use.
How do you choose the mesh office chair that best suits your requirements? With so many possibilities, that question may be challenging to answer. With this list, we’ve done our best to aid in your effort to find the answer to that query. This list was created using information from our many years of selling mesh chairs as well as our own personal usage.
Mesh office chairs that are suitable for particular uses can be found on this list. Even if they are the best option for you, our choices may not be the only ones available to you. However, this list can serve as a useful starting point for what is available and what to consider when looking for your next mesh office chair.
Top 13 Best Mesh Office Chairs
Herman Miller Aeron Mesh Office Chair – Top Pick
WHY WE LIKE IT: A fully mesh office chair that comes in three sizes and can support up to 350 pounds is among the best ergonomic office chairs.
Pros
- Suspended supportive seat
- Available in 3 sizes for full customization
- Supports up to 350lbs
Cons
- Lacks an actual seat cushion
Due to its all-mesh construction, the Herman Miller Aeron is a bit of an outlier, but it’s the only full-mesh office chair that we would suggest because it was made with ergonomics in mind. Our Top Pick is this Herman Miller chair because it’s one of the top ergonomic office chairs available in multiple sizes. While we are concentrating on the size A chair, you can also choose the B or C sizes, which can accommodate taller or larger people. With a height adjustment range of 14.75 to 19 inches, the Aeron A is perfect for people who are shorter to average height. Additionally, with a 350-pound weight capacity, this is a sensible option for the majority of people.
We appreciate that this choice comes in three colors for greater customization. More importantly, the suspended mesh design will provide superior lumbar and sacral support for anyone who already has back issues like scoliosis. The seat and backrest of this Herman Miller chair are suspended by an 8Z Pellicle elastomeric system. You have the choice of adjusting the forward tilt tension as you alternate between three reclining positions. Adjusting the seat angle to ensure proper posture is another nice feature. The seat’s waterfall edge and the arms’ height and angle adjustments, which range from 6.8 to 10.8 inches, are other important features. The seat’s waterfall edge relieves pressure on your legs. The best office chair for scoliosis that also works to prevent sciatica, herniation, muscle strain, and fatigue may be of interest to you.
Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair – Best Comfortable
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Ticova Ergonomic Office Chair is the most comfortable mesh office chair currently on the market.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable and supportive
- Extra lumbar cushion
- Durable nylon frame
- Tons of adjustability
- High weight capacity
Cons
- On the pricey side
With the addition of a lumbar support piece inside the chair, its nylon frame is strong and resilient, and the mesh is incredibly comfortable. Almost all chair components, including the height and angle of the headrest, the depth and tension of the lumbar support, the tilt and recline of the back, and the height of the seat and armrests, can all be altered. Last but not least, the chair can support 280 pounds, which is a sizable amount. Though costly, the chair is well worth the cost.
Modway Articulate Mesh Office Chair – Honorable Mention
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is one of the best mesh office chairs because it is a solid option with a 30-degree recline, nearly four inches of seat height adjustment, and built-in lumbar support.
Pros
- Available in 4 colors
- 30-degree recline support
- Supports up to 350lbs
Cons
- Lumbar support isn’t adjustable
The Modway Articulate office chair is among the best mesh office chairs because it has a variety of features and is reasonably priced, making it available to a wider range of customers. We appreciate that this mesh-combination office chair has a breathable mesh backrest and built-in lumbar support. A six-inch waterfall-edged, plush seat cushion is also included to help reduce uncomfortable pressure points.
Three adjustment levers are provided for you to use to adjust the seat tilt, back tilt, and height. You’ll also appreciate the adjustable seat height, which can go from 19.5 to 24 inches, and the support for reclining up to 30 degrees. The fact that the lumbar support isn’t adjustable is the only real flaw we could find with this chair. However, you get a 20-inch seat depth, which is perfect for most users. The Modway Articulate also features padded armrests with height-adjustable backs, which will appeal to people who enjoy armrests. The fact that this seat can support up to 331 pounds is more significant. You should also try the top ergonomic kneeling chair to ease back pain without causing discomfort in other areas of your body. You can also choose the best desk chair for back pain if kneeling isn’t your thing.
Best Office Big And Tall Mesh Office Chair – Best Capacity
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is a good choice for larger people because it is a reliable ergonomic mesh office chair that can support up to 400 pounds and has adjustable lumbar support and a five-inch height adjustment.
Pros
- Height range from 17 to 22”
- Quick assembly in just 15 minutes
- 6 position adjustable lumbar support
Cons
- Lacks recline feature
Finding a chair that is both supportive and comfortable can occasionally feel like following Goldilocks’ advice. Because it has one of the highest weight capacities we found during our research, we like the BestOffice big and tall office chair. This is a pretty impressive choice, supporting 400 pounds and offering a wider seat height adjustment of five inches from 17 to 22 inches. This is one of the best ergonomic mesh office chairs we’ve seen because you can switch between six different lumbar support positions. It’s a great customizable option.
This chair is made of mesh and has a breathable backrest, as is typical. The armrests of this choice can be adjusted for greater comfort and are also padded, but it would be nice to see them with a recliner. For smooth movement, the height can be adjusted using pneumatic controls. Additionally, you’ll receive a seat that is 24 inches wide, allowing for greater individual comfort. Visit our buying guide for the best big and tall office chairs for more choices.
Serta Essential Mesh Low-back Mesh Office Chair – Best Quality
WHY WE LIKE IT: This is a great armless mesh office chair for home or business use because it has a breathable backrest and nearly four inches of seat height adjustment.
Pros
- Seat height adjustment from 16.75 to 20”
- Armless for increased range of motion
- Bonded leather and mesh combination design
Cons
- Lower weight capacity of 250lbs
It makes sense to buy from brands with a reputation for ergonomic designs if you want a supportive chair that’s also comfortable. However, if you’re looking for an armless office chair, this becomes even more crucial. The Serta Essential mesh office chair offers comfort and a stylish, contemporary look that fits in with a variety of home and work environments. Although the company’s mattresses are its specialty, they have also made a name for themselves in the office furniture market. Their Essential mesh office chair is available in three colors but has a lower weight limit of just 250 pounds
Nevertheless, we appreciate the model’s integrated lumbar support and breathable mesh backrest. The waterfall edge on the seat is another typical but important feature. Furthermore, you can adjust the seat height from 16.75 to 20 inches, a difference of almost four inches. Other necessities include the five casters for easier mobility and the 360-degree swivel. You should also try the best office chair seat cushion for additional comfort.
SIHOO Ergonomics Mesh Office Chair – Best Recline Angle
WHY WE LIKE IT: Back pain sufferers will benefit greatly from this ergonomic office chair, which features an adjustable headrest, lumbar support that can be tailored, and up to 36 degrees of reclining flexibility.
Pros
- 360-degree swivel
- Customizable lumbar support
- Adjustable headrest
Cons
- Gas shocks may leak air prematurely
You need a supportive, comfortable chair if you spend a lot of time at your desk. You should specifically search for chairs that allow for more customizations than just changing the chair’s height. For those who enjoy taking quick breaks by leaning back in their chair, the Sihoo ergonomic office chair is a fantastic choice. We appreciate the fact that the recline support can be adjusted from 90 to 126 degrees, a total of 36 degrees. However, we like that this particular model also includes a headrest that can be raised or lowered by 3.9 inches and adjusted up to 45 degrees.
If you prefer a chair with armrests, you’ll appreciate that they can be adjusted by 2.7 inches and can be angled at any point between 0 and 36 degrees. Thanks to the gentle gas shocks, the seat height can be changed from 17.1 to 21 inches. The adjustable lumbar support that comes with this stylish mesh-combination executive style chair is one of its key features. The lumbar support can be moved 1.9 inches up or down and up to 1.2 inches in or out. Check out the best office chair for back pain for a chair with lumbar support and a detachable, USB-powered massaging pillow to reduce discomfort.
HOMEFUN Mesh Office Chair – Best Alternate Style
WHY WE LIKE IT: This striking chair from HOMEFUN might be what you’re looking for if the other chairs on this list don’t appeal to you because of their standard black color.
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable and supportive
- Excellent weight capacity
- More affordable
- Striking appearance
Cons
- Average amount of adjustability
- Frame’s bulk means the mesh isn’t as breathable
- No added lumba
This chair stands out and appears fantastic while doing it thanks to its sharp, angular design and bright white color. The chair’s frame is thick and substantial, more than making up for the fact that it is made of plastic, which is less durable than nylon. Although the size of the frame means it is less breathable than other options, the chair is supportive and comfortable, and the mesh feels great. Additionally, the adjustability is only average because you can only tilt the chair back and adjust the seat height. The chair is not expensive at all, though it can support up to 300 pounds.
Devoko Mesh Office Chair – Best For Remote Work
WHY WE LIKE IT: For use in home offices and other remote work locations, a straightforward mesh-combination office chair with flip-up arms and a commendable seat height range works great.
Pros
- Supports up to 280lbs
- Flip-up armrests
- 5” seat height adjustment from 15 to 20”
Cons
- Hydraulics can be inconsistent
Depending on how you use it, you might not spend as much time in your home office as you would in a traditional office. And since you only use your office chair for a few hours per day, you may not need one with as many features, even though you still need a comfortable chair. The mesh combination Devoko office desk chair has a medium seat height range of five inches from 15 to 20 inches, making it a fantastic option for those who work from home. For the majority of people who are average height or if the chair will be used by several people, this should be perfect.
We appreciate that this selection can support 280 pounds as well. Although it’s not the highest weight capacity we’ve seen, the average user should find it more than adequate. The padded flip-up adjustable arms for a wider range of motion are another nice feature. Despite not having a recliner, this model offers tilt/rocking support and a plush, 3.34-inch-thick, waterfall-edged seat for additional comfort. And as is customary, this chair is also equipped with casters for added mobility. When compared to one of the most comfortable office chairs, this has a number of intuitive standard features and is still a fantastic affordable option.
Flash Furniture Mid-back Black Mesh Office Chair – Best For Standing Desk
WHY WE LIKE IT: This mesh office chair is perfect for drafting tables or standing desks because it has a wide seat height range, supports rock tilt and armrest adjustments, and comes in a variety of colors.
Pros
- Available in two frames and eight colors
- Seat height from 23.5 to 31”
- 3-way adjustments for back, seat, and armrests
Cons
- Armrests may not be compatible with keyboard trays
- Low weight capacity at 250lbs
The best drafting chair or a seat with a wider height adjustment range is crucial when working at a standing desk or drafting table. Because it has one of the broadest seat height adjustment ranges that we discovered during our research, we like the Flash Furniture mesh office chair. You get almost eight inches of height adjustments with a range of 23.5 to 31 inches. A breathable backrest with integrated lumbar support is a feature of this model, which is another to use the well-liked mesh-combination style.
This choice from Flash Furniture offers true customization with two frame colors and eight upholstery colors that go with the majority of residential and commercial settings. We appreciate that this choice has padded flip-up armrests for added comfort. However, the weight capacity is on the lower end at only 250 pounds. We also noticed that although the brand advertises that this chair can recline, customer reviews indicate otherwise and mention that it doesn’t recline very well. The best executive leather office chair with a 360-degree swivel and a tilt-tension knob is an example.
B2C2B Mesh Office Chair – Best Armrestless
WHY WE LIKE IT: The B2C2B Mesh Office Chair will probably appeal to you if you’re looking for something without armrests.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- No armrest
- Great weight capacity
- Most affordable
Cons
- Not as supportive
- Least sturdy frame
- Not very adjustable
- No added lumbar
The frame of this object is made of leather, not nylon or plastic. This means that while it is by no means “weak,” it is also not as durable. It is also tied with our budget pick as the least expensive seat on this list, has comfortable mesh, can support 260 pounds, and can support a 260-pound person. This chair isn’t the most stable or supportive you’ll find because you can’t adjust it in any way other than seat height and because it lacks a high back and a more durable frame. Despite those limitations, this chair is still a good buy, especially given its low price.
Nouhaus Ergo3D Mesh Office Chair – Best Modern Design
WHY WE LIKE IT: An executive-style mesh office chair that supports a 135-degree angle recline, has fully adjustable armrests, and can support up to 275 pounds. It also has a headrest that mimics the look of an executive chair.
Pros
- Large 135-degree recline
- Supports up to 275lbs
- Adjustable armrests and headrest
Cons
- Lacks footrest
This choice from Nouhaus is a fantastic compromise if you like executive chairs but don’t like their overly padded design. Despite the fact that it has a mesh-combination design, it still has some of the more convenient features and comfortable materials that you typically find in gaming and executive chairs. You’ll start out with a mesh office chair that has a headrest that can be adjusted up to 135 degrees of tilt and recline and can be raised and lowered. We also appreciate that the lumbar support in this chair is adjustable, allowing you to adjust the backrest to provide the right support where you need it.
According to our research, the Nouhaus chair’s weight limit of 275 pounds is on the lower end. The 3.9-inch seat height adjustment, which utilizes a hydraulic gas lift for a smoother movement, is another crucial feature. For added comfort, you can also adjust the armrests’ height and inclination. Additionally, there are four different color options for this chair, allowing it to complement a variety of design themes. Look at the best office stability chair, which also has non-slip vinyl and a good weight capacity, for a more generous height range.
Smugdesk Mid-back Mesh Office Chair – Best For Tall People
WHY WE LIKE IT: This mesh-combination office chair is one of the best for tall people because it has a taller height adjustment range and a weight capacity of up to 270 pounds.
Pros
- Great for drafting tables/standing setups
- Taller height adjustment from 21 to 25”
- Supports up to 270lbs
Cons
- Fixed armrests lack padding
- 18-inch seat width
Being tall can make it seem as though the world isn’t designed with your needs in mind, much like being left-handed. Additionally, this may mean that a taller person may not be able to sit comfortably in an office chair, even one that is designed with ergonomics. One of the best office chairs for taller people, in our opinion, is the Smugdesk chair. This is one of the narrowest seat widths we’ve seen, measuring only 18 inches wide.
The weight capacity of 270 pounds is also not the worst, but it might make this chair best for tall people who are also on the smaller side. You do, however, receive a four-inch height adjustment from 21 to 25 inches. So those who use standing desks or drafting tables would also do well to choose this. The mesh-combination design with integrated lumbar support throughout the backrest and a cushioned breathable seat are additional standard features. The fixed, unpadded armrests, however, might not be to everyone’s taste. Check out the top 6 best office chairs under $300 for a more budget-friendly option that still provides comfort.
Vnewone Ergonomic Office Chair – Best On A Budget
WHY WE LIKE IT: A cost-effective office chair with 30-degree reclining capability, built-in lumbar support, and a mesh-combination design for improved breathability.
Pros
- 30-degree recline support
- Mesh combination design for breathability
- Built-in lumbar support
Cons
- 250 lbs weight capacity
When shopping on a tight budget, you shouldn’t sacrifice ergonomic support in favor of a cost-effective option. If you require a supportive chair but aren’t interested in purchasing one of the priciest options from our guide, the Vnewone chair is a great compromise. Although this simple chair needs to be put together, it has all the features that make it a wise choice for prolonged use.
The mesh backrest of this mesh-combination office chair includes built-in lumbar support. We appreciate that the seat height can be adjusted by four inches from 17 to 21 inches, despite the fact that the armrests are fixed and unpadded. You will receive weight support that is on the low end, at 250 pounds. However, we appreciate that this choice comes with a 30-degree tilt mechanism and is offered in four colors with casters and 360-swivel functionality. If aesthetics are important to you, you should also look at the top office stools that emphasize height adjustability, ergonomics, weight capacity, and 360° swivel capability.
Best Mesh Office Chairs Buyer’s Guide
A Mesh Office Chair Is What?
A mesh office chair is pretty self-explanatory. It is a mesh-upholstered office chair. But mesh chairs come in a variety of designs. Both open and padded mesh are available. A single layer of mesh that has been stretched across a frame is known as an “open mesh.” A padded seat or back is covered by padded mesh, which is mesh upholstery. It is uncommon to see mesh upholstery over padded seat and back cushions.
Mesh chairs are very popular, but there are also many all-mesh and mesh back options. Open mesh will be used for the seat and back of all-mesh chairs. They won’t be padded. While having a padded seat, mesh back chairs will have an open mesh backrest. Most often, the seat will be covered in fabric, leather, or vinyl.
Things Consider Before Buying A Mesh Back Chair
Quality Of Mesh Matters
Regarding comfort and durability, the mesh’s quality will be very important. Mesh is a challenging material because it needs to be both strong and flexible in order to support the person sitting in the chair while still being soft and comfortable for the user.
For comfort against your skin, high-end mesh will have soft fibers woven throughout. Additionally, it will be elastic and return to its original shape after use. The mesh shouldn’t begin to take the shape of the person sitting in the chair on a long-term basis. As a result, the mesh will eventually sag and become less supportive.
All of these positive characteristics won’t be present in lower quality mesh. Even though it sometimes has good elasticity, the maker chooses not to weave in some soft fibers. As a result, the mesh will become coarse and may be abrasive to your skin and/or clothing. Other low-end mesh might be entirely made of a softer material to make it more comfortable, but because it lacks the elasticity to hold its shape, it eventually loses its support.
Cooler Sitting Experience
Foam-filled upholstery is much less breathable than open mesh. It will be cooler to sit in open mesh than foam with upholstery because it allows for more airflow. For those who spend a lot of time in their chairs and are prone to getting hot or even sweaty in furniture with upholstery made of vinyl or leather, this can be a huge benefit.
Although it is always emphasized that mesh chairs provide a cooler sitting environment, that is not always the case. Some people prefer the additional warmth that a leather chair can offer and do not need or want a cooler sitting environment. An open mesh chair might not be the best choice if you are a person who gets cold easily while others around you do not.
Padded Seats Vs. Open Mesh Seats
There are two primary types of seat designs for mesh office chairs: an open mesh that is pulled across the frame or padded seats that are upholstered in fabric, vinyl or leather. These chairs feel very different from one another.
Mesh seats with padding have a more traditional chair-like feel. Therefore, having a mesh backrest and a well-padded seat together has its advantages. If you are looking to buy a lot of chairs or are unsure of whether you will enjoy an all-mesh chair, you should go with this type of mesh chair. Additionally, it’s a good way to get around open mesh model issues with glaring seat frames. To prevent rubbing up against an uncomfortable seat frame, use padding.
More floating is intended to be achieved with open mesh seats. It’s intended for you to have the sensation of gently sitting on the chair. They offer a very special sitting experience that you can only get from a mesh-only chair. However, they do feel slightly firmer than the majority of padded chairs.
The frame may have issues with seats made of open mesh. There is no foam that can be placed on the metal frame to give you a cushion when you sit on it or shift your weight into it because the mesh is pulled across the frame. In contrast to mesh back chairs with padded seats, open mesh seats are more likely to cause you to feel the seat frame.
Back Height
I learned a lot about what the industry considers a high back chair when I was researching and writing our article on the 8 Best High Back Chairs for 2022. When looking for a high back mesh chair, it’s crucial to understand what a high back is.
High back chairs come in two varieties. An entire back, neck, and head are intended to be supported by the first kind of high back. These backrests will stand approximately 28 to 32 inches tall from the seat.
The second kind of high back is a design with a higher back than a mid or low back. It will support your neck and head but not your neck or upper back. It will support your lower back. Typically, the height of these backrests from the seat is about 24 inches.
In my research, I discovered that there aren’t many mesh high back chairs that can support your head, neck, and entire back without the use of an additional headrest. Although there are some choices, there are not many. Find a high back mesh chair with a headrest, like the Ergohuman or CXO chairs featured on this list, if you want a mesh chair that supports your entire back, neck, and head.
Conclusion
Office chairs with mesh backs are among the best options available because they support your back while also keeping you cool and comfortable thanks to their breathable design and shape-adapting capabilities. These characteristics can be a godsend if you spend hours at a computer.
The market for mesh chairs is large, and each of the different seats that we selected for this list is sure to appeal to someone’s needs or desires. Ultimately, we feel that the Herman Miller Aeron Mesh Office Chair is the best chair of the bunch as its extreme comfort, excellent supportive capabilities, incredibly adjustable nature, and fair price make it a premium choice.
Other Office Chairs Recommendation:
- 7 Best Office Chairs for Back Pain In 2022
- 10 Best Office Chairs for Short People in 2022
- 6 Best Office Chairs for Tall People
- 5 Best Office Chairs for Sciatica to Reduce Pain
- 13 Best Office Chairs Under $200 In 2022
- 15 Best Executive Leather Office Chairs In 2022
- Top 9 Most Expensive Office Chairs In The World
