If you’re like many modern workers, you spend a lot of time at your desk. So, whether you’re working in an office or from home, you deserve to have a chair that works for you! Maybe your old chair isn’t cutting it anymore — or maybe the chair your workplace provided for you simply isn’t benefiting you. But how do you go about shopping for a new one? There are so many office chairs in the world to choose from, and so many specs to read through. How do you know if you’re choosing the best chair for your specific needs? 

Don’t fret! In this blog, we’ll break eight key factors to look for when shopping for a new office chair. 

1. Height Adjustability  

One common thing to look for when choosing a desk chair is whether its height is adjustable. Not all desk or office chairs are made with adjustability in mind. If you buy a chair without height adjustability, then you won’t be able to make it fit under your desk (in some cases) or adjust it to your own height and preferences. It’s very important for maintaining good posture that the height of the chair works well with your height ; you need to be able to position your feet flat on the ground, and you don’t want your legs pressing against the desk’s underside. However, height adjustability isn’t absolutely necessary as long as you make sure to take some measurements to ensure that your body height and desk height work well together. 

2. Adjustable Backrest 

As with adjustable height, you may want to look for a chair with an adjustable backrest. The angle of your backrest can help or worsen your posture, so it is important to look for an adjustable one. In addition, your backrest must be able to work with all of the common tasks you perform. Some backrests move forward and backward, while others can move up and down.

You’ll also want to check and see if the backrest has a lock. Locking backrests are beneficial, as they prevent the backrest from moving while you’re working. If you choose a chair without a backrest lock, take the time to make sure it’s suitable for your specific needs, as you won’t be able to change the backrest height max or angle range once you’ve purchased the chair. 

3. Affordability 

Finding a chair within your budget is just as important as any specific chair feature. However, budget issues shouldn't stop you from shopping for the exact kind of chair you need. Acima Leasing provides lease-to-own alternative solutions* and lease-renewal payment options* that work with your income schedule and help you unlock your shopping power. With the help of Acima Leasing, you can get the office chair you need today without using credit*. 

4. Lumbar Support 

Nowadays, many office chairs include lumbar support. “Lumbar support” simply means a curve in the chair that offers support to your spine while sitting. Good lower back and lumbar support are crucial to making sure you don’t slump throughout the day. Different chairs can come with different intensities of lumbar support, so it’s important to try out various types of chairs to see which one supports your back in the way you need it to. 

5. Seat Depth and Width 

An office chair should be wide and deep enough to allow you to sit comfortably. If you’re shorter, a shallower chair might suffice ; taller individuals may look for a deeper-set chair. Ideally, your back should be able to sit at the backrest while easily allowing the back of your knee to hit the edge of the seat. This can be important because if you get a seat that’s too shallow, you may become uncomfortable after sitting for many hours. Likewise, if the chair is too deep, you may struggle to maintain good posture throughout your workday, leading to back pain. 

6. Material and Padding 

Good quality material and solid padding are important for a variety of reasons. Chairs can be made from many things: plastic, fabric, wood, leather and more. The material you choose can be up to your personal taste and style, but when considering a fabric, choose one that’s breathable and comfortable for long working stints.

Padding can also play an important role in the long-term comfort of your chair. A chair made of plastic with no padding might look sleek, but the body may tire soon after sitting in it. However, it is also important to avoid a chair that’s too soft, as it won’t provide enough sturdy support for your spine. 

7. Armrests 

You also may want to consider a chair with armrests, which provide relief to your neck and shoulders throughout the day. While you may not find yourself utilizing the armrests all the time, whenever your neck or shoulders begin to strain, it can be nice to have a surface to rest your elbows on while you’re still working. Two other features to look for with armrests are padding and adjustability. If you work at an elevated desk or at a desk with a keyboard stand, you might want the comfort or the ability to change the height based on your body and desk setup. 

8. Swivels and Wheels 

Swivels and wheels are optional but extremely beneficial in an office setting. Swivel chairs allow you to move easily to face a second screen or reach for a drawer in your desk that’s not directly in front of you. Wheels can also make for an easier time getting in and out of your chair for meetings or when it’s time to stand up and stretch your legs. It’s important to consider the type of flooring you have ; you’ll want to make sure the wheels won’t scratch the floor. If you’re concerned about scratching, find a mat that can go underneath the chair and protect your flooring. 

How Can Acima Help? 

Just like an office chair, you’ll want payment options that work for you. Acima Leasing’s flexible lease-renewal payment options work with you to help you get the things you need. At a location near you, you can shop for the chair of your dreams — then bring it home today, with simple payment options* and without using credit*.