If you’ve struggled with chairs that are too big, too tall, or just plain uncomfortable because you’re on the smaller side, you’re not alone. Selecting the ideal office chair is crucial for all users, but for those of shorter stature, the search can be particularly challenging. To simplify your search, we’ve chosen the best office chair for short people, focusing on essential features like seat height, back support, and overall ergonomic design.
Whether you need a compact chair or one with customizable adjustments to fit your height precisely, we’ve got suggestions to help you find a chair that lets you work comfortably.
Table of Contents
- 1. Meet&Co Office Furniture Ergonomic Desk Chair
- 2. Steelcase Leap V2
- 3. Herman Miller Aeron Size A
- 4. Budding Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair
- 5. Branch Ergonomic Chair
- 6. OM Seating Paramount Petite
- 7. Style Ergonomic Office Chair
- 8. Sidiz T25 Petite Ergonomic Office Chair
- 9. HÅG Capisco 8106 Saddle Chair
- 10. Meet&Co Modern Home Office Chair
- 8 Common Problems with Ergonomic Chairs for Shorter People
- How We Chose the Best Office Chair for Short People
- How to Create an Ergonomic Office Setup for a Short Person
- FAQs
- Why Trust Us
1. Meet&Co Office Furniture Ergonomic Desk Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 640 W x 610 D x 965 – 1030 H mm
Weight Capacity: n/a
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 1 – 3 years
The Meet&Co ergonomic office chair impresses with its modern and stylish design. It is available in six colors, and the office furniture manufacturer provides customization services, allowing you to tailor the chair’s color to your specific preferences. This practical chair injects a vibrant aesthetic into any workspace, making it a chic and functional addition to your office.
In terms of comfort, this office task chair doesn’t disappoint. The fabric is comfortable and breathable, though it may be warmer in hotter climates. The seat cushion is also well-padded, providing ample comfort and support. Importantly, this ergonomic chair strikes a balance in size—not too large nor too small—allowing anyone of shorter stature to sit and work comfortably. The backrest offers good spine support, particularly for the lower back, enhancing comfort during extended hours. You can adjust the armrest height, and the seat height ranges from 965 to 1030 mm, but remember that the lumbar support isn’t adjustable. Its smooth and quiet casters also make it effortless to move around your office space, adding to its practicality and ease of use.
The Verdict:
Overall, the Meet&Co ergonomic office chair is an excellent choice for those looking for a stylish and versatile seating option without breaking the bank. Priced under $100, it stands out as the best budget office chair for shorter individuals, providing all the necessary features for a comfortable and productive work setting. Whether you’re furnishing a professional workstation or your home office, this chair is a practical choice.
2. Steelcase Leap V2
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 27″ W x 21.75 – 24.75″ D x 46 – 54″ H
Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
Assembly: No assembly
Warranty: 12 years
The Leap v2 chair by Steelcase is a sturdy and comfortable option for anyone needing a highly adjustable chair. Steelcase touts this model as their most customizable, making it suitable for a wide range of body sizes and work types. If productivity and comfort are priorities for you, the Leap v2 is a top pick.
One standout feature of the Leap v2 is its exceptional lumbar support, which can be adjusted for height and firmness. The chair also pioneers LiveBack® technology, enabling the backrest to adapt and support your spine’s natural movements. Although the mechanism can be a bit tricky at times, being able to tailor the support to match the curve of your spine is a big plus. This ergonomic office chair includes a reclining tension knob under the seat on the right side, allowing easy adjustment of resistance when leaning back. Additionally, the seat slider function adjusts the seat pan depth to accommodate the length of your legs. The chair’s height range from 15.5″ to 20.5″ makes it especially easy to adjust for smaller sizes. The armrests are another highlight, offering a soft yet durable feel, and can be adjusted in height, depth, width, and pivot to suit a wide range of needs.
The Verdict:
Despite costing more, the Leap v2 is well-known for its robust build and one of the best warranties. It’s super comfy and comes in many colors to fit different tastes. With so many ways to adjust it, this chair fits many body types and work needs, making it the best adjustable office chair for short people.
3. Herman Miller Aeron Size A
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 16″ D x 25.75″ W x 38.5″ H
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Assembly: No assembly
Warranty: 30-day return policy + 12-year warranty
Our third pick is the Herman Miller Aeron Chair. Herman Miller is a top office furniture brand known for its creative designs. This Size A version is ideal for shorter individuals, fitting heights from 4 feet 10 inches to 5 feet 4 inches and supporting up to 300 pounds. It’s made in the USA, looks sleek, works smoothly, and has an impressive twelve-year warranty.
The Aeron chair has a seat height of 14.75 inches and a seat depth of 16 inches, which is smaller than many other office chairs. While you can’t adjust the seat depth or back height like with the X-Chair, it feels remarkably comfortable right from the start. You don’t have to adjust a lot to find the right fit. If you’re willing to spend more, you can choose upgrades like adjustable lumbar support for extra lower back comfort, a tilt limiter that lets you lock the chair in different positions, and arms that move with you when you recline. You can choose between stationary, height-adjustable, or fully adjustable arms. We recommend fully adjustable arms, which can be set between 7 to 11.5 inches in height and pivot inward for a better fit. Its smooth recline function provides a natural rocking motion, making it comfortable whether working or taking a break.
The Verdict:
The Aeron is hugely popular worldwide for good reasons—it’s packed with appealing features, built to high standards, and has an excellent warranty. However, even expensive chairs like this have their downsides. It lacks a few ergonomic adjustments that some people might want, such as back height adjustment and a seat slider. Still, the Aeron Size A is undoubtedly one of the best premium office chairs for petite people. While the $1,000+ price may be a splurge, the Aeron offers unmatched comfort, particularly with its mesh seat. If the Aeron is out of your budget, check out refurbished chairs or office clearance sales for better deals.
4. Budding Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 640 D x 660 W x 1030 – 1090 H mm
Weight Capacity: n/a
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 1 – 3 years
When you first see the Budding ergonomic mesh office chair, you’re instantly drawn to its unique design. It looks like three irregular oval shapes stacked together. This lovely chair is available in various colors, from soft, neutral tones to vibrant, eye-catching shades. It’s the perfect addition to any office, bringing a touch of modern style to your workspace.
The Budding ergonomic mesh office chair is well-suited for shorter individuals, offering a comfortable fit without feeling cramped or overly large. Its seat cushion is well-padded, giving you a soft and comfy place to sit. Unlike chairs like the Leap v2 and Aeron, which are firmer, the Budding chair is softer, making it great if you like a cushy seat. It’s also positively adjustable: the armrests can go up, forward, back, and swivel. You can tweak the seat depth for better leg comfort, and the lumbar support can tilt to fit your lower back. The furniture manufacturer Meet&Co also offers other options for this chair, like headrest options, fixed armrests, or a cantilever base, but for shorter folks, skipping the headrest might be more comfy than adding one.
The Verdict:
If you’re looking for a stylish and flexible seat at a great price, the Budding chair is an excellent budget option! At under $100, this is an absolute steal for shorter people, offering comfort and adjustability for a good work setup. While it has a shorter warranty, the chair comes with different options you can pick, making it a good deal for both single and bulk orders.
5. Branch Ergonomic Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 24″ D x 25″ W x 38 – 42″ H
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 7 years
The Branch Ergonomic Chair costs just under $300, making it one of the Branch’s pricier options. It has seven points of adjustment, accommodating weights up to 300 pounds and fitting heights from 5’2″ to 6’2″. This chair also has a solid 7-year warranty, ensuring durability in office environments. It scores high on value, offering more adjustments and comfort than other office chairs under $300.
In terms of comfort and functionality, the Branch chair shines with its thoughtful design elements. Its armrests are a highlight. You have the option to adjust the height and width of the armrests on the Branch Ergonomic Chair and extend them, though they do not pivot horizontally. The anodized aluminum base and smooth casters ensure stability and effortless movement across different floor types, enhancing usability during long work hours. The double-layered nylon mesh backrest provides ample ventilation, though some users may find the seat slightly warmer than traditional mesh chairs. Despite this small issue, the chair’s sturdy construction and ergonomic features make it an outstanding choice, particularly given its competitive price point in the market.
The verdict:
If you’re looking for an affordable yet professional-looking ergonomic chair, the Branch Ergonomic Chair is a compelling option. It’s designed to accommodate long workdays comfortably and supports good posture with its adjustable features and lumbar support. Its professional appearance, coupled with a choice of attractive color options, blends seamlessly into any workspace environment. Compared to higher-priced models like Herman Miller, the Branch chair offers similar functionality at a fraction of the cost.
6. OM Seating Paramount Petite
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 18 – 20″ D x 25″ W x 32.5 – 38.5″ H
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 12 years
The OM Seating Paramount Petite is designed for smaller to medium-sized individuals, part of the Paramount Value Series known for its ergonomic features. It stands out for its incredible adjustability, offering different seat and back sizes to fit various body types. This makes it versatile for those needing a chair that fits them just right.
In terms of dimensions, the word chair is notably petite, with a low seat height starting at 15.5 inches and arms that can be adjusted to as low as 5.25 inches. The seat depth can also be minimized to 16 inches, making it suitable for smaller frames without sacrificing ergonomic benefits. Despite its size, it offers extensive adjustments such as center tilting with tension control, seat angle adjustment, and forward seat tilt, along with adjustable backrest angle and height. Combined with its two-way adjustable arms, the Paramount Petite delivers impressive flexibility and functionality at a budget-friendly price point, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a customizable office chair.
The Verdict:
Overall, the OM Seating Paramount Petite is one of the top picks for the best office chair for short people. Its wide range of adjustments and ergonomic support make it particularly suitable for smaller individuals needing a comfortable chair that supports their back well throughout the workday.
7. Style Ergonomic Office Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 670 W x 640 D x 840 – 920 H mm
Weight Capacity: n/a
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 1 – 3 years
The Style ergonomic mesh office chair blends modern design with functionality. True to its name, it boasts a stylish appearance and comes in various colors, from subtle neutrals to vibrant tones. The standout feature is its eye-catching backrest, adding a unique touch to any workspace. It’s not just a practical chair but also a chic addition that enhances the overall look of your office.
In terms of comfort, the Style chair excels with its wear-resistant and highly breathable mesh back. The seat cushion is generously padded, ensuring a soft and comfortable sitting experience. Adjustability is key, with height-adjustable armrests and the ability to adjust seat depth for better leg support. The chair provides good lumbar support to maintain proper posture throughout the day. Additionally, the manufacturer offers options such as cantilever bases and a footrest, catering to individual preferences. For those who prefer an office chair with no wheels or need floor protection, there’s also a wheel-less version available to suit those needs.
The Verdict:
Overall, the Style ergonomic office chair is a standout option for those on a budget looking for a stylish and adaptable seating solution. It’s ideal for shorter individuals, offering the necessary features for a comfortable and efficient workspace. Despite its shorter warranty, its affordability and customizable features make it a smart and appealing choice for any office environment.
8. Sidiz T25 Petite Ergonomic Office Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 19.3″ D x 23.8″ W x 39.9″ H
Weight Capacity: 275 lbs.
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 30-day free trial + 3-year brand warranty
The Sidiz T25 Petite is specifically designed for individuals 4’9″ and taller. It has a low seat height of 15.7 inches and can support up to 275 pounds. Its easy setup, supportive build, and attractive design make it a great choice for short people.
This chair is designed with smaller individuals in mind and has a comfortable mesh back and a well-padded seat, perfect for extended sitting sessions. It includes a tilt lock function for effortlessly adjusting the seat tilt. However, the fixed armrests, without height or angle adjustments, may be a limitation for some users. Despite this, it offers a variety of colors to suit different office decor styles. What sets the Sidiz T25 apart is its award-winning design, which has been recognized by prestigious awards like the Japan Good Design and the ACED Ergonomic Design Grand Prix. Its modern and minimalist appearance blends seamlessly into any office environment. The chair’s patented auto-fit tilt mechanism ensures optimal support by adjusting tilt tension automatically as you move, minimizing the need for constant adjustments throughout the day.
The Verdict:
Overall, the Sidiz T25 Petite is an excellent ergonomic chair choice for shorter individuals. With its supportive features, stylish design options, and innovative tilt mechanism, it’s both practical and visually appealing for enhancing productivity in any workspace.
9. HÅG Capisco 8106 Saddle Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 29″ D x 29″ W x 50″ H
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 10 years
The HÅG Capisco Chair 8106 is a game-changer for those who use standing desks. Regular office chairs don’t always fit well with standing desks, but the HÅG Capisco solves this by fitting neatly under high desks or being easily stored. Its special saddle seat is very comfy and supportive, unlike typical stools that can be uncomfortable after sitting for a while.
Designed by Norwegian Peter Opsvik in 1981, the HÅG Capisco is known for its innovative design. Its saddle seat mimics how horse riders sit, allowing you to sit in different positions. This makes it great for shorter individuals, too, as it adjusts from low to high positions, making it easy to switch from standing to sitting comfortably. It also lets you try different sitting positions while maintaining ergonomic support, making it versatile and beneficial for your posture.
The Verdict:
If you want to explore a new way of sitting comfortably, the HÅG Capisco Chair 8106 is an excellent choice. However, it comes at a higher price point. For those interested in a more affordable alternative, the Branch saddle chair offers durability and style for around $300. It also promotes active sitting and provides ergonomic benefits, making it a practical option for those seeking comfort without the higher cost of the HÅG Capisco.
10. Meet&Co Modern Home Office Chair
Key Specifications:
Dimensions: 20″ D x 25.2″ W x 34″ H
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
Assembly: Requires assembly
Warranty: 1 – 3 years
The Meet&Co modern home office chair has a sleek and contemporary design. Its clean lines and minimalist look create a sense of elegance to your workspace, blending functionality with a modern appeal.
When it comes to comfort, this chair doesn’t disappoint. The breathable mesh back is durable and keeps you cool throughout long periods of sitting. The seat cushion provides a comfortable base for extended use. Although the armrests are fixed and cannot be adjusted, the chair’s back supports your spine well, ensuring a comfortable seating experience. While it lacks some customizable features of higher-end chairs, it still offers good comfort overall.
The Verdict:
The Meet&Co home office chair offers a stylish and functional design at an affordable price. It’s an excellent option for those looking to enhance their workspace with a contemporary aesthetic. While the fixed armrests may limit adjustability, the chair provides solid comfort and support, making it a practical choice for shorter individuals seeking a comfortable seating solution without exceeding their budget.
8 Common Problems with Ergonomic Chairs for Shorter People
Shorter people may encounter several common issues when choosing an office chair. Understanding these issues will give you an idea of what to look out for and help you make a better decision.
- Seat Depth Is Too Long: Many standard ergonomic chairs have a seat depth that is too long for petite people. If the seat is too deep, it can cause discomfort and restrict movement. Ideally, the seat should let the user sit comfortably with their back against the backrest and allow a few inches of space between the back of their knees and the edge of the seat.
- Seat Height Is Not Low Enough: Standard heights can leave petite individuals unable to sit with feet flat on the floor.
- Backrest Is Too Tall: The backrest may be too tall for petite users, or the angle may not be adjustable enough to provide proper lumbar support. The backrest needs to support the lower back without forcing the user to slouch or strain.
- Armrests Are Not Adjustable: Non-adjustable armrests, which may be too high or too wide, can cause shoulder and neck strain.
- Overall Chair Size Is Too Large: Chairs may be too bulky for smaller frames, affecting comfort and ergonomics.
- Lumbar Support Is Misaligned: Petite people often need adjustable lumbar support to fit their smaller back curvature. Fixed or non-adjustable lumbar support may not provide adequate support and cause discomfort.
- Build Quality: Some chairs are designed to focus on durability and may use materials or construction methods that don’t suit petite users. For instance, a chair with a very firm seat may be uncomfortable for someone lighter in weight.
- Limited Options: There may be fewer chair options in the market designed specifically for petite users, making it harder to find a chair that meets all ergonomic needs.
How We Chose the Best Office Chair for Short People
Here’s how we narrowed down the options to find the chairs that offer the most comfort and support for shorter individuals:
- Finding Solid Footing: One of the biggest challenges for short people in office chairs is dangling feet. We checked how low each chair could be adjusted. This ensures users can sit comfortably with their feet flat on the ground, promoting good circulation and preventing leg fatigue throughout the workday.
- Seat Depth Sweet Spot: We weren’t just looking for chairs with adjustable heights; seat depth was equally important. Our testers of short stature evaluated each chair to ensure they could sit comfortably with back support without feeling squeezed at the back of their knees. This optimal seat depth is key for proper posture and overall comfort.
- Adjustable Armrest Advantage: Fixed-in-place armrests can be a pain point for short people. We prioritized chairs with armrests that could be adjusted up and down, and ideally even sideways.
- Supporting the Spine: Back pain is no fun for anyone, but it can be a particular concern for shorter people who may be more prone to slouching due to their shorter torsos. That’s why we carefully examined the curvature of each chair’s backrest. The ideal backrest should mimic the natural S-curve of the spine, providing adequate lumbar support to keep your back feeling great throughout the day.
- User-Friendly Adjustments: The best ergonomic features are useless if they’re difficult to use. We looked for chairs with levers and knobs that were easy to reach and clearly labeled. This allows for effortless adjustments throughout the day, ensuring continuous comfort and proper positioning for short users.
How to Create an Ergonomic Office Setup for a Short Person
Being short in an office designed for average-sized folks can feel like navigating an obstacle course. Don’t resign yourself to a lifetime of back pain and awkward chair perches! Here are some simple yet effective tips to turn your workspace into an ergonomic haven that caters to your shorter stature.
- Desk Height: Ideally, an adjustable standing desk allows you to find your comfort zone. If not, aim for a desk where your forearms rest parallel to the floor while seated comfortably. Footrests can bridge the gap if your chair’s lowest setting isn’t relatively low enough.
- Keyboard & Monitor Placement: Keep your keyboard close to you, with your wrists remaining straight while typing. A keyboard tray can help achieve this optimal positioning. The monitor should be directly in front of you, at an arm’s length distance. The top of the screen should be slightly below eye level, encouraging proper neck posture. Consider monitor stands or risers to achieve the ideal height.
Remember:
Ergonomics isn’t a one-time fix. Sit properly with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and core muscles engaged. Don’t forget to take regular breaks to get up and move around.
By incorporating these tips and choosing furniture that fits your body, you can transform your workspace into a haven of comfort and support, boosting your productivity and keeping you happy and healthy throughout the workday.
FAQs
1. Are there any specific types of chairs better suited for short people?
Not necessarily a specific type, but ergonomic chairs generally offer more adjustability features that can benefit shorter people. Features like those mentioned when discussing how we chose our top picks are key.
2. What are the biggest challenges short people face with office chairs?
Standard office chairs can be too tall, leading to dangling feet and back strain. Excessive seat depth can also cause pressure behind the knees and make it difficult to maintain proper posture.
3. What if I can’t afford a brand-new ergonomic chair?
There are some things you can do to modify your existing chair:
- Add a lumbar support pillow for extra lower back support.
- See if your chair’s armrests can be adjusted (up/down on some models).
- Consider using a footrest if the lowest seat height setting isn’t enough.
4. Are standing desks a good option for short people?
Standing desks can be a great option, but it’s important to ensure you have an adjustable standing desk or a sit-to-stand converter that allows you to achieve the proper ergonomic height for both sitting and standing postures.
5. What is the best way to adjust a chair for a shorter person?
Set the seat height to let your feet flat on the floor, adjust the seat depth to leave a few inches between the back of your knees and the edge of the seat, and position the backrest to support your lower back.
6. What is the ideal chair height for shorter people?
The ideal chair height for shorter people is one where the seat can be adjusted so that their feet rest flat on the floor, with knees at a 90-degree angle. This usually means the seat height should range between 15 to 18 inches from the floor, but it depends on the individual’s height and leg length.
7. Does using a footrest help?
Yes, using a footrest can be very helpful for shorter people. It allows you to adjust your seating position so that your feet are properly supported, even if the chair’s height cannot be adjusted to your ideal position. A footrest helps maintain a comfortable posture by keeping your knees at a 90 degrees and reducing pressure on your lower back and legs. It can also enhance overall comfort during long periods of sitting.
Why Trust Us
For over 15 years, we’ve been designing and making ergonomic chairs to fit all kinds of bodies, not just the average one. Whether you’re short or tall, we understand everyone needs the right chair for comfort. That’s why we focus on creating office furniture designed with people in mind. At Meet&Co Office Furniture, we aim to build modern workplaces that work for everyone, no matter their work style. So you can stay comfy and healthy and do your best work.
