(checked 2026-10-10)Based on about 1,603 ratings; the listing pools several colors and possibly lumbar/no-lumbar configurations.
Wirecutter's budget pick has real seat-depth and lumbar adjustment for about $500, but Wirecutter doubts it will last as long as pricier chairs and Amazon owners report it breaking after about a year.
Top complaints
- Durability doubts
Wirecutter says it isn't as sturdy as pricier picks and won't last nearly as long. Amazon's summary says multiple customers report it fell apart after a year of use.
- Too tall for short users
The minimum seat height is 17 inches. A 5-foot-2 Wirecutter tester couldn't keep her feet flat, so Wirecutter suggests a footrest. The arms also don't go down as far as on other picks.
Source: Wirecutter - Mixed lumbar and recline; long-term discomfort
Amazon's summary says lumbar support and recline get mixed reviews. A Wirecutter writer using it since 2022 finds the armrests hurt her elbows and long sitting bothers her tailbone.
What owners love
- Best lumbar near $500
Wirecutter says the optional adjustable lumbar actually works and stays in place. Check that the listing says 'adjustable lumbar'.
Source: Wirecutter - Pricier-chair adjustments
Wirecutter notes seat depth, tilt tension, tilt lock, seat height and telescoping arms. Amazon owners praise the armrest and seat-depth adjustments.
- Comfortable from day one, easy to assemble
Wirecutter calls it the most comfortable budget chair it has tested, with no break-in. Amazon owners say it is easy to assemble.
- You're petite (high minimum seat height)
- You want a chair that lasts a decade
- You're bony and sensitive to firm armrests
- Getting key adjustments for about $500
- Average to tall users
- People who want working adjustable lumbar support
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Budget pick: the most comfortable budget chair tested, with working adjustable lumbar; flaws are a high minimum seat height, arms that don't go low, and less longevity than pricier picks.