Office & Drafting Chairs

Choosing an office chair

If you work from home all day, the chair matters as much as the desk. This page has around 90 chairs, from mesh task chairs and executive chairs to drafting chairs and saddle stools. Prices start at €99, and most cost between €129 and €369.

Seat height and your desk

Most desks are about 72cm to 76cm high. Set the seat so your feet rest flat on the floor and your forearms sit level with the desk. If your feet don't reach, a footrest or a chair with a built-in leg rest helps. Check the seat height range on the listing against your height and your desk, especially if you are tall or short.

Lumbar support and adjustments

Lumbar support is a curve or pad at the bottom of the backrest that fills the gap at the small of your back. Most of the chairs here mention it, and on the better ones you can move it up or down. Other things worth looking for:

• Armrests that adjust in height and angle, often called 3D or 4D arms.
• Flip-up armrests, so the chair tucks under the desk or lets you sit cross-legged.
• A tilt or recline lock, to lean back and hold the position.
• A headrest, if you lean back to read or take calls.
• A footrest that slides out, found on several gaming and lounge-style chairs.

Mesh, fabric or PU leather

Mesh backs let air through and stay cooler over a long day. Padded fabric feels softer, and a few chairs use teddy fleece or faux cashmere for a home look. PU leather wipes clean and suits an executive style, but it is warmer in summer.

Weight rating and build

Most listings give a maximum user weight. Most chairs that state one are rated for 136kg to 150kg, and the heavy duty chairs go up to 200kg. Many name a Class 4 gas lift, the strongest common grade of the cylinder that raises and lowers the seat. A five-spoke base with nylon or PU castors is standard. PU castors are quieter and kinder to wooden floors.

Drafting chairs and stools

Drafting chairs sit higher than a normal office chair and have a foot ring. They suit a standing desk set high, a kitchen counter, a reception desk or a workbench. Saddle stools tilt your hips forward and are common in salons, studios and treatment rooms. The range also has a kneeling chair and several armless desk chairs for small rooms.

Assembly

Chairs arrive in a box for home assembly. You fit the castors to the base, add the gas lift, then fix the seat and back with a few bolts.

Delivery and returns

Delivery is free to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and orders arrive in 3.1 working days on average. You can return an unused item in its original packaging within 30 days of delivery, and our support team answers email 7 days a week. The details are on our delivery and returns page.

More help

Setting up a home office? Read how to choose a standing desk for a small home office, then browse desks, standing desks, L-shaped desks and office accessories.