7+ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying an Office Chair Online

Choosing an ergonomic chair seems simple, but it's not. Many people believe that all it takes is looking for a "pretty" or "comfortable" model when buying one, but the truth is that this type of decision requires more attention.

Ergonomics is fundamental to health and well-being at work, and a poor choice can lead to back pain, shoulder discomfort, poor posture, and even more serious problems over time.

If you're thinking about investing in an ergonomic chair for your office, home office, or study, it's worth knowing the most common mistakes made in this process to avoid losses and regrets. Check it out from the My Cubicles POV!

1. Assuming that all office chairs are ergonomic.

One of the most common misconceptions is that any office chair is necessarily ergonomic. Many conventional chairs may seem comfortable at first glance, but they don't offer the necessary adjustments to adapt to different body types.

True ergonomics goes far beyond appearance; it involves height adjustments, armrests, lumbar support, reclining backrests, and the quality of materials used, among other things.

2. Just thinking about comfort

Yes, comfort is important, but it's a tricky criterion. One of the main functions of an ergonomic chair is to provide support to keep our body in a correct and healthy position, not just a comfortable one.

In our view, the best ergonomic chairs aren't always the most comfortable at first; adaptation is necessary, especially if you're used to sitting in an incorrect posture.

Of course, you can combine both. Good quality ergonomic chairs are indeed very comfortable, but they are not armchairs or lounge chairs. Be careful when choosing yours!

3. Ignoring lumbar support

Lumbar support is one of the key aspects of an ergonomic chair. The lumbar region is one of the most stressed areas when we sit for long periods, and without adequate support, we have to strain to maintain the correct position (and of course, we can't stay in that position for very long).

The market offers different solutions, and it's good to compare them patiently to find the one that works best for you. 

4. Not checking the chair size.

Another frequent complaint in reviews of ergonomic chairs is about the size. Some people complain about models that are too small. Others complain about models that are too large.

We always recommend checking all the measurements and dimensions of the product before buying, comparing them with a reference chair you already have at home.

The seat size is a great indicator of whether the chair will fit your body well. If the seat is too small for you, it will feel cramped. If it's too large, you may not have adequate support, and the armrests may be too far apart.

Manufacturers often indicate ideal height and weight ranges for chairs, but these are only averages. It's important to check for yourself.

5. Drop for cheap prices.

Here, the error can be either too much or too little. Cheap chairs aren't necessarily bad, and expensive chairs aren't necessarily good. It's very relevant.

Instead of chasing the lowest price, look for chairs that offer a balance of quality, comfort, and affordability. Invest in a model with proven ergonomics, high-quality materials, and a reliable warranty. A slightly higher initial cost often means lasting comfort and fewer replacements.

6. Buying solely based on brand.

You certainly have the right to prioritize a brand in search of reliability, but in the ergonomic chair market, that doesn't make as much sense.

When you start comparing models, you'll quickly notice that there are extremely similar options across brands, and that's no coincidence, much less a convergence of design.

Therefore, don't get hung up on famous brands!

7. The Style Trap

There are some really beautiful ergonomic chairs available in the market, but any attractive product that can't be a priority (or can it?).

A modern chair can greatly enhance the look of your office or setup, but don't be fooled by that. There are very beautiful chairs that leave much to be desired in terms of features or charge exorbitant prices based solely on design.  

8. Not testing or researching reviews before buying.

We understand that testing an ergonomic chair is very difficult, as most brands don't have physical stores or showrooms. 

The most important thing, however, is to check product ratings and reviews, if possible, taking the time to find users who are similar to you in size and preferences — if you are a short person, it's no use basing your opinion on the tall person who complained that the chair is too small, right?

9. Forget about the warranty & after-sales support

A good ergonomic chair is an investment—so make sure it's protected. Unfortunately, many buyers overlook the importance of warranty coverage and customer service when choosing a chair.

The Final Takeaway

Avoiding these mistakes when choosing an ergonomic chair is essential to ensure better health, productivity, and well-being in your daily life. The ideal chair is not just a matter of comfort or style, but an investment in your quality of life. Whether for the office or for working from home, choosing an ergonomic chair requires careful and conscious thought. So, think before you click!