Best Big and Tall Office Chairs in 2023 | Buyer’s Guide

Big and tall people face considerable disadvantages when it comes to chairs that can accommodate larger bodies, whether in restaurants, airports, home or office.

Luckily, you can take life into your own big, beautiful hands, and buy yourself a big and tall office chair that suits you.

You won’t have to pay an arm and a leg for it, I promise.

I’ve done my research, and I came up with a series of good big and tall chairs from all price ranges and built for various purposes.

Remember that not all these chairs are created equal. Get one that doesn’t fit your needs, and you will hate how sitting on it feels, even though it might be an ergonomic, comfy chair in the abstract.

I trust in these chairs so much that I’ve bought them for my family members too.

I have an Aeron, my husband use a Homall Computer Chair, my sister has a Steelcase Leap Plus, and my grandpa a La-Z-Boy Delano office chair.

What chair is good for you?

Read the reviews below to make the right decision.

But before you do…

Check out the section where I explain factors you need to consider before buying yourself a chair.

Top 9 Best Big and Tall Chairs of 2023 (Review):

1. Herman Miller Aeron – #1 Best Office Chair For Big Guys (Under 300lbs)

The Herman Miller Aeron product is my best choice overall because it has a great design and it’s a quality chair that comes in three sizes.

If you’re a tall person under 350 pounds, you will appreciate the Large (C) chair size, with a 28.25 x 28.5 seat, an adjustable 16-20.5-inch seat height, a 22.75 x 23-inch backrest, and 18 inches between the armrests.

The Aeron is sturdy, and cozy with many ergonomic features, so you can sit in it for prolonged periods.

The Aeron is made in the USA with recycled and recyclable materials, plus custom-designed parts that combine better than generic parts. Herman Miller office chair offers a 12-year warranty that speaks volumes about the Aeron’s long life, besides the fact that the Aeron is rated for 24/7 use.

The Aeron 8Z Pellicle mesh fabric material is flexible for sustained support. It’s also breathable and doesn’t let you sweat.

I like its recline function that runs smoothly and takes the pressure off your spine, but its armrests are the best of all the chairs I’ve reviewed because they allow a lot of adjustments (width adjustment, height adjustment, depth adjustment, and angle adjustment) and feature soft pads.

People with lower backaches can purchase the additional PostureFit SL lumbar support that is also highly adjustable.

If you don’t suffer from lower back pain, the S-shaped backrest is enough to accommodate your spine and provide flexible support.

People who type on the computer for long hours can get the optional Forward-Tilt feature that inclines the Aeron forward to support your back while you’re leaning over the keyboard.

On the other hand, some people might not like the firm support offered by the mesh fabric construction and would prefer cushioned seating, albeit less ergonomic.

These people also complain about feeling the metal frame through the thin mesh after a while.

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2. Steelcase Leap Plus Ergonomic Chair – #2 (Under 500lbs)

Look at Steelcase Leap Plus’s specs to understand why this is my second choice. Although Leap Plus can support 150 pounds more than the Aeron, it has a smaller sitting area, of 20.5 x 20 inches. However, the Leap Plus sports seat depth adjustment is between 16.75 and 18.75 inches.

The back width is 20 inches, and the arms span is 17.5-24.75 inches so that you can adjust the armrests comfortably.

The Leap Plus and Aeron have two things in common: the highly adjustable armrests (width, height, depth, and angle), plus the S-shape backrest.

The Leap Plus comes with an addition in terms of the backrest, which is built with a patented Liveback technology that mimics your back’s movements to support you better while you move.

The Leap Plus also sports a patented Natural Glide System for the recline, which aligns your body with your computer.

Usually, when you lean back, you are no longer looking at the center of the screen.

But Leap Plus’s patented Glide technology keeps you in line with your computer, so you don’t have to strain your neck or arms.

The Leap Plus’s frame is durable, made from heavy-duty dense plastics and metal, which is why it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Although the Leap Plus isn’t made from mesh office chair, like the Aeron, and has a more padded seat, some people also complain that the seat becomes too firm after a few hours in it.

The good part is that at least no one complains about feeling the metal frame through the seat.

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3. Serta Big and Tall Executive Office Chair – Best Budget Chair For Heavy Person

Serta Big and Tall Office Chair is the best office chair with someone on a budget choice for heavy and tall people. This chair can support up to 350 pounds but has generous measurements.

The seat is 21.5 x 19 inches, and the seatback is 27 x 27.5 inches. The seat height varies between 43.5 to 47 inches.

Unlike the Aeron and the Leap Plus, Serta Big and Tall Office Chair is a cushiony chair, featuring thick and ergonomic body pillows. This chair is comfortable for hours, although the leather fabric might become too hot after a while.

I like the built-in lumbar mechanism the most because it’s very supportive for people with backaches, as well as the smooth recline with Infinite locking.

Although the armrests are just height adjustable, they’re curved and thickly padded for extra comfort.

Besides, the Serta Big and Tall looks stylish and very executive, thanks to its bentwood armrests and base, black plastic frame, and espresso-color finish. 

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4. Songmics Thick Executive Office High Back Large Chair With Headrest

I Like the Songmics Thick Executive Office chair because it has accommodating dimensions and it’s retailed in the 100 price range.

The overall height can be adjusted from 44.12 to 48.12 inches, the backrest is 27.5-inch height, and the seat is 19.62 x 20.5 inches.

The seat to floor height can be adjusted between 17.75 to 21.62 inches, and the chair supports about 331 pounds.

Compare these dimensions to the other chairs above, and you can understand why I ranked it fourth.

However, the Songmics Office High Back Large Chair is a solid chair, built with good materials for the price.

The PU fabric is smooth and resistant, albeit not extremely breathable, and the high-density foam in the cushions is supportive and doesn’t give.

The plastic frame could be more reliable, but Songmics offers a 30-month warranty for the spare parts.

The chair sports ergonomic features, including the built-in high-elasticity sponge headrest.

The bilateral arc-winged seatback is curved to fit your spine and protect your lower back.

The armrests are also curved and comfortably padded, and the seat has a waterfall edge that takes the pressure off your hamstrings.

The Songmics comes with a 90-110-degree recline, which you can deactivate or adjust the tension.

But what makes this chair unique compared to others in this price range is the 20-degree seat linkage with the back when you recline. The rocking function is another benefit for relieving spinal pressure and relaxation.

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5. Homall High Back Computer Chair PU Leather – Best Big and Tall Gaming Chair

If you’re looking for an affordable, big and tall computer chair that’s best for gaming, the Homall High Back model accommodates people up to 300 pounds and has good dimensions.

The backrest is 22.5 x 30.5 inches, the seat is 19.8 x 20.5 inches, and the seat height can be adjusted from 17.3 to 21.5 inches.

The Homall is one of the best gaming chairs because it comes with a recline and rocking function, plus a tilt-lock feature.

The backrest and seat are contouring and padded, which translates into increased support and help to keep a correct posture.

Unlike the Aeron, this Homall chair features PU leather pillows instead of mesh. PU leather is a smooth, resistant, and low-maintenance material, although firm and not as flexible as mesh.

The frame material is also durable and quality because it’s made from steel.

The Homall Chair looks modern, and it’s affordable, but it doesn’t have as many adjustments as more expensive models, but it features built-in lumbar support and headrest.

However, it’s the best chair if you need a 180-degree recline that mimics the effects of zero gravity in that it takes the pressure off your spine and allows you to nap comfortably.

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6. AmazonBasics High-Back Big & Tall Executive Swivel Office Chair

This heavy-duty office chair’s dimension, price tag, and ergonomic features have convinced me that it deserves a place in my top 9 best chairs for big and tall.

This high-back chair can accommodate people up to 350 pounds, and it’s a high-back type of chair for tall people with a 28 x 21-inch back, a 22 x 21-inch seat, and an adjustable seat height of 18.75-22.5 inches.

Although AmazonBasics claims that this heavy-duty chair is made with commercial-grade parts, I noticed it’s not as durable as the other ergonomic office chairs I’ve reviewed before because it comes with just a 1-year limited warranty.

However, I like the bonded brown leather elegant design and that it comes partially assembled for guys and gals who want to use it right out of the box.

This chair sports some ergonomic characteristics, including the S-shape backrest, the built-in headrest, the adjustable lumbar support, and the curved, padded armrests.

This chair is thickly padded with firm cushions that help you keep a correct posture, plus the seat has a waterfall edge to prevent circulation problems. All these features allow you to spend long hours working from this office chair.

Another feature that stands out is the Infinite locking mechanism for the tilt.

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7. La-Z-Boy Delano Big & Tall Executive Bonded Leather Office 3.0 Chair

The La-Z-Boy tall chair Delano supports people up to 400 pounds, its backrest is 27 x 27.5 inches, its seat is 21 x 21.5 inches, and the seat height varies between 22 and 25 inches.

Although the Delano Big and Tall can fit in the affordable category, it comes with some unique characteristics, such as the ComfortCore Plus layering technology.

The memory foam in the seat features five layers for thick cushioning and optimal support.

These layers are created from different materials with different densities that work together to offer you a comfortable, plush experience together with a firm, zonal support.

As such, you’ll feel comfortable enough to stay in the Delano Big & Tall for hours, all the while keeping a correct posture.

This chair is stable and durable, with a curved backrest, a waterfall-edge seat, and curved, padded armrests that are height adjustable from 28.75 to 31.75 inches.

The chair tilts to take the pressure off your spine, but it also features a built-in headrest to avoid neck strain and a contoured lumbar cushion that alleviates backaches.

The Delano Big and Tall is an elegant piece of furniture, made with brown bonded leather and wood finish for the arms and base, but it’s so big and heavy that it’s not for camping.

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8. Flash Furniture Hercules Series – Top Leather Chair For Back Pain with Built-In Lumbar Support

The Hercules Series brings in comfort for bigger chairs. The models in this series have comfortable seats with waterfall edges and 6-inch padding for a comfortable, prolonged sitting experience.

The chair has 22 x 20.5-inch seats, 21 x 27-30.5-inch backrests, and an adjustable seat height of 21.5-24 inches. The armrest’s adjustable height is between 28.5 to 31 inches.

These chairs have tall backrests with incorporated lumbar support and headrest, plus an S-shape design that follows your natural spine curvature to maintain a correct position and reduce the risk of backaches. This makes it a good office chair for lower back pain issues.

These chairs feature recline with tilt tension adjustment and ergonomic tilt lock to further take the pressure off your spine, and so you can do various tasks.

The armrests are curved and padded, just like the La-Z-Boy Delano and AmazonBasics Big models. But unlike these models, the Hercules Series chairs can support up to 500 pounds.

You can choose different materials for the chairs. This leather looks more elegant, but it’s not as breathable as the mesh option or fabric.

However, the mesh office chairs have a mid-back design with no headrest and can only accommodate people up to 400 pounds.

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9. NBF Signature Executive Real Leather Big Tall Office Chair

The NBF Signature Execute Big Office Chair is in the steep price category, but that’s probably just the expensive real leather.

It’s a good choice for tall people because its max weight limit is up to 400 pounds of weight, its seatback is 26 x 26.25 inches, its seat is 18.5 x 21.25 inches, and the seat height varies between 19.75 and 21.75 inches.

The leather upholstery is the unique selling proposition of the NBF Signature because top grain leather with 100% PVC-free PU sides is breathable, stylish, flexible, supportive, and easy to clean.

This sort of upholstery doesn’t have you compromise mesh’s flexibility for leather’s elegance.

The NBF Signature features a 7-inch thick memory foam seat, with a layer of coil springs underneath it.

Memory foam is very supportive and helps you to improve your posture, but it also gives you the right amount of cushioning.

Other ergonomic features include an S-shape back that follows your natural spine curvature with a built-in headrest for neck support, and curved, padded armrests.

However, the NBF Signature Executive Chair doesn’t have many ergonomic adjustments apart from the seat height and tilt tension.

Another disadvantage is that you’ll need to do some assembly work and that there’s no adjustable or fixed lumbar support of any kind.

These disadvantages make the NBF Signature Executive chair unjustifiably expensive unless you want a top quality executive leather office chair.

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Models not in this review for various reasons:

• KILLABEE Big and Tall 400lb Gaming Office Chair(that features durable pneumatic gas lift)

Sadie Big and Tall Office Computer Chair

Being the queen of chair shopping, I know what I like and what I don’t like. And so when I meet a chair that’s equally as chair-y as the ones I already have, it has to have something special.

Sadie Big and Tall is an Australian company that started to design, sell and showcase its eco-friendly, sustainable, and stylish furniture.

I fell in love with their chair at first glance. It’s a completely unique piece that’s built with tumbling curves. It looks incredible, and for me, it just got my mind racing. If it was a bed it would be my absolute favorite (with the new Beds R Us).

The chair itself is super sturdy, as you would expect from a piece of furniture with these sorts of curves. The best bit is how tall it comes. Now I’m a height freak. I want a really tall chair, and this is so tall! I could comfortably spend the rest of my days in this chair. Sadie Big and Tall has created a product that people of all ages can enjoy, not just those who are tall or short. It can be used by taller or shorter adults too, as it’s quite flexible. The wheel is nicely sized and you can store it away when you aren’t using it.

You can easily fold it up into a handy carrying pouch so it’s easy to take with you on the go.  It comes in three different colors, so is versatile. It’s made from solid wood so it won’t warp or rust over time and the smooth edges make it safe to put your feet on. As an adult, you will definitely want to use this rather than your bare feet if you do have to use your feet, though.

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Is Herman Miller Aeron Good for Tall People?

Sitting upright and standing or sitting upright and reclining have been thoroughly ruined by the “office chair” cliché. It’s become an industry of filling chairs with cushions to create the illusion of comfort for someone seated who has 10-inch thighs or a short torso, who can’t reach the armsrests. But even with those efforts, the cheapest office chairs don’t compare to a well-made Aeron chair from Herman Miller.

The Aeron chair, now nearly 40 years old, was originally designed for the mouse-clicking computer users of the 1980s, and it’s still relevant. The chair is constructed with aluminum and plush synthetic leather, which doesn’t absorb as much of the body’s heat as leather would, so it’s a great option for cold-weather offices or offices with offices that get consistently chilly. The Aeron’s reclining mechanism is also easy to adjust, so there’s a little adjustability without wasting a ton of energy. The chair is also customizable, so the arms and back of the chair can be rotated by a modest amount.

Is Mesh Chair Better?

For the longest time, you could only find mesh body pillows on yoga mats, and really, it’s a wonder we survived that long without butt sweat. It’s true, even though mesh pillows are cute AF and have so many wonderful benefits, including keeping your pores clear, but with the high prices they often come with, you wouldn’t be surprised if you thought the large half-inch holes and likely, “gunk” were the only things that made them worth it.

But the good news is that in recent years, there have been some strides made in making them less of an obnoxiously uncomfortable experience, and now there are a number of different types of pillows that you can find at your local drugstore. So, is a super-popular body pillow that fits in the palm of your hand, the answer? Read on to find out why the Allswell body pillow, which goes for $25, is better than your picky older sibling.

How Strict Are Weight Limits on Office Chairs?

The following article is entirely the opinion of Pete Carey and does not reflect the views of the Inquisitr. Office workers know all too well how frustrating it can be to exercise when your chair is too small or your desk is too high to do much lifting. And for the first time since “Office Space,” you can count on this problem not going away any time soon.

If you are a desk jockey, your options to get your heart pumping are more limited than ever. Though standing desks are a luxury many of us don’t have the funds for, office chairs might be your only option if you’re looking to step it up a notch. But unfortunately, those options don’t leave a lot of room for movement. According to Know Your Meme, an office chair is generally considered safe for your back when you are in a seated position. If you’re a sitting, standing, or walking desk jockey.

Which Chair is Best for Long Sitting Studying?

Reading via the web gives you a perfect viewing spot for your teacher to give you very useful feedback. Through the web, you can get what you are searching for on the internet. When you are reading on the web, you can rest your mind without disturbing your surroundings. In fact, when you are reading on the web, you will hardly spend too much time.

As a result, you will definitely get the desired focus and concentration from your studies. In fact, reading on the web is a very better option for sitting for long hours. While learning, if you start getting sleepy, it’s a sign that you should go take a break. So, to prevent yourself from getting sleepy, whenever you see a few hours left for your tests, take a break.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Big and Tall Chair

The first two things you have to consider before getting a big and tall office chair are your weight and your dimensions.

Cross-check with the official specs for the best office chairs that you’re considering to make sure they’re a good fit.

Then, cross-check these specs with the size of your desk to make sure you don’t need to buy a bigger desk or, conversely, a smaller chair.

Pro tip: Big and tall chairs work well as standing desk chair replacements for standing desks.

Other things to consider are:

The chair’s recline. If you’re heavier, you need to look for chairs that offer tilt-lock with infinite tilt lock adjustments for extra security. Chairs with tension recline and with no manual adjustments can’t keep you in an upright position because you’re applying increased force on the seatback.

The chair’s durability. Look for chairs made with quality materials that last a long time. Instead of cheap plastic for the frame or parts, make sure your chair has a metal frame and is rated for heavy use if you’re sitting for 8+ hours per day in it.

The padding or lack thereof. Heavier people prefer more padding because they’re applying more force into the chair. As such, mesh or thinly padded seats might not feel comfortable for heavy people who are sitting for long hours, although these chairs are ergonomic and supportive.

The seat edge. You want a waterfall edge that doesn’t cut into your hamstrings, and that promotes good blood circulation. Heavier people will apply more force to the seat’s edge, which is why you don’t want an edge design that already digs into your body.

Chair with footrest. If you’re sharing the chair with a shorter person in your house or your office, it’s best to get a footrest for them or a chair that comes with one.

How Wide Should an Office Chairs Be? (dimensions)

A regular office chair is 17-20 inches, although big and tall office chairs are over 22 inches wide. To get the right chair size, measure yourself from hip to hip and from shoulder to shoulder and cross-reference with the chair’s official specs. Don’t just look at the seat width; look at the distance between the armrests because this distance might be uncomfortable if you have a larger waistline. Seat depth is also important, so make sure the edge is 2-4 inches above your knees.

Do Weight Limits on Chairs Matter?

Once you find the right one, some experts say you should not give up your favorite seat just yet. What to Know The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and other groups recommended no restrictions. The groups said if you cannot move your legs, using the floor is a better option than a chair that you cannot use at all. The numbers show that while most chairs meet the new guidelines, more than 16,000 cannot be used at all. Your preferred chair may not be big enough, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop sitting. Do weight limits on chairs really matter? Can they really keep you from moving around in your own home, or do they pose a risk? NBC Bay Area’s Investigative Unit investigated and found that many chairs do meet updated health recommendations from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and other groups. Some experts say that if you cannot move your legs, using the floor is a better option than a chair that you cannot use at all.

“It’s becoming standard in the industry,” said Payson Seward of Brookdale Senior Living. He’s the company’s director of resident services. “If you don’t have mobility, you shouldn’t be using the same chair for 10 or 15 years.” The new guidelines, recommended by the ADA and other groups, recommend wheelchairs with straps for use in the home. They do not allow any weight over 30 percent of your body weight. The Americans with Disabilities Act currently allows a maximum weight limit of 45 pounds on most dining chairs. “It’s not about getting in and out,” said Dr. Patrick J. Burke, chair of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. “It’s about having a means of getting in and out that is reliable, allows for safe maneuverability, and will work for a variety of activities.” By that measure, most chairs meet the guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maximum Height of an Office Chair?

The maximum height of an office chair is determined by its design and adjustability features, which are crucial for accommodating various body types and promoting ergonomic comfort. Generally, office chairs have an adjustable height range that allows users to customize the chair’s seat height to match their individual preferences and workstation setup.

In the context of ergonomic functionality, the typical maximum height of an office chair is around 20 to 22 inches (50 to 56 cm) from the floor to the top of the seat cushion. This range is designed to accommodate a wide range of desk heights and ensure that users can maintain proper posture with their feet flat on the floor and their knees at a 90-degree angle.

However, it’s important to note that some office chairs come with additional features, such as adjustable lumbar support and headrests, which could slightly alter the overall height range when those features are fully extended. Moreover, the presence of a gas lift mechanism enables users to raise or lower the seat height within the established range, further enhancing the chair’s flexibility and adaptability.

Factors such as the chair’s base, wheels, and swivel capabilities also play a role in determining its overall height and mobility. These components contribute to the chair’s stability, ease of movement, and suitability for different office environments and tasks.

When selecting an office chair, it’s crucial to consider your own body dimensions, desk height, and preferred sitting posture. Opting for a chair with a height adjustment range that aligns with your needs will facilitate a comfortable and ergonomically sound workspace, reducing the risk of discomfort or strain during prolonged periods of sitting.

Is it Better to Have Office Chair High or Low?

The optimal height of an office chair depends on a variety of factors, primarily centered around promoting ergonomic comfort and proper posture. Rather than a fixed “high” or “low” setting, the ideal chair height is one that corresponds to an individual’s body dimensions and workstation setup.

Maintaining the correct chair height is crucial for supporting the body’s natural alignment and minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal strain. When seated, the feet should rest flat on the floor or on a footrest, and the knees should be at a 90-degree angle. This positioning helps distribute body weight evenly and reduces pressure on the lower back, fostering a comfortable and healthy sitting experience.

Conversely, a chair set too high could lead to dangling feet, increased pressure on the thighs, and inadequate support for the lower back. On the other hand, a chair set too low may result in an awkward posture, with the knees positioned above the hips and the spine not properly aligned. Both scenarios can contribute to discomfort, fatigue, and potential long-term health issues.

Adjustability is key. Most ergonomic office chairs come equipped with height adjustment mechanisms, typically in the form of a gas lift, allowing users to customize the seat height to their specific requirements. This adaptability ensures that the chair can be tailored to the individual’s unique body proportions and desk height.

In summary, there is no universal “better” option between a high or low office chair. The focus should be on achieving the right chair height for your body, which supports a neutral and comfortable posture. Regular adjustments and periodic changes in position are also recommended to prevent prolonged static postures, ultimately contributing to a more ergonomic and health-conscious workspace.