Best inexpensive office chair for a fidgeter?

August 13, 2018 12:38 PM

I've been given a budget of $200 to choose my own office chair and am looking for specific chair recommendations or advice on how to search for what I want. I tend to sit upright or lean forward. I also fidget and shift position a lot, so I appreciate chairs that don't get in my way or force me into one posture. Additional specs inside.

• I typically sit at my desk for 2-3 hours a day, using a laptop for most of that time.
• I "run hot" and quickly become uncomfortable if my body heat can't dissipate.
• When chairs have adjustable height, I usually adjust to the higher end, although I'm not especially tall (5'9"). This is just what feels comfortable.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

posted by aws17576 to Shopping (5 answers total)

I really like the tall IKEA office chairs, MARKUS ($229), and find them nicer than many much more expensive chairs. I have one at home and one at work. I think it has all the features you want.

You should probably go and try a few chairs in person though.
posted by richb at 1:03 PM on August 13, 2018

As a fidgeter, I really dig my exercise ball office chair
posted by RedEmma at 1:08 PM on August 13, 2018 [1 favorite]

If you go try out the selection at Ikea, check out this chair - it seems like it might fit your needs (unless you want a backrest). It has a somewhat rounded bottom to encourage movement, and the maximum height is quite high (high enough to use with a standing desk, probably). If you're used to sitting straight, it might be a good fit.
posted by trig at 2:03 PM on August 13, 2018

I use a Swopper which is outside of your price range - but there is a chance they can be found used. Prior to that I had a different rocking stool with a lower price point (I don’t recall the brand) but less adjustability and durability. I’ve had my Swopper for about 8 years of heavy use - though now I mostly use a Pono Board with a desk riser for my monitor for a standing work station.

Standing has done the most good for me fidgetwise, but the Swopper was also very helpful.
posted by hilaryjade at 6:49 PM on August 13, 2018

Steelcase Leap. $200 isn’t much. So buy used.
posted by oceanjesse at 5:05 PM on August 14, 2018