When selecting a good office chair, factor in your body size and personal requirements. Find a chair that matches your desk height and offers ample support and comfort.
Additionally, consider aspects like armrest types and the chair’s adjustability. Let’s dive in.
These are the general size ranges for most desk chairs:
- Height: 16 to 22 inches (41 to 56 cm)
- Width: 19 to 21 inches (48 to 53 cm)
- Depth: 15 to 19 inches (38 to 48 cm)
What’s more, the table below demonstrates the most common office chair sizes distributed in the US.
| Office Chair Size | Percentage of Chairs Used |
|---|---|
| Less than 18 inches high | 10% |
| 18 to 20 inches high | 60% |
| 21 to 23 inches high | 20% |
| Greater than 23 inches high | 10% |
Desk Chair Sizes: Measuring Your Office Chair Correctly
You’ll want to measure your chair in inches, feet, mm, or cm, whichever unit of measurement is right for you.
Plus, consider the type of chair you’re using, whether task chairs or office chairs for your work setup at your desk.
STEP 1 Measure the Seat Height
Use a tape measure to determine the distance from the floor to the top of the seat. This is best done while the chair is empty. Measure from the floor straight up to the highest point of the seat.
STEP 2 Seat Width & Depth Measurement
For the width, measure across the seat at the widest point. For the depth, measure from the front edge of the seat to the backrest.
STEP 3 Find Backrest Height
Measure from the top of the seat to the top of the backrest. If the backrest is separate from the seat, measure it from the top to the bottom.
STEP 4 Calculate Armrest Height
Measure from the top of the seat to the top of the armrest.
Proper support from ergonomic armrest height is crucial, especially if you use office chairs for extended periods.
STEP 5 Compute Overall Height
Measure from the floor to the top of the backrest to get the total height of the chair. Remember to measure in a straight line and use a level surface for accuracy.
These measurements will help you understand the dimensions of your chair and ensure it fits your workspace ergonomically.
Understanding Chair Height Variability
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to office chair heights. Typically, the height from the floor to the seat ranges between 16” and 22” (41cm to 56cm).
Plus, if you’re on the taller side, some chairs can go beyond 21″. For shorter people, chairs can dip as low as 14.5″. Pretty cool, right?
Determining the Ideal Chair Height
Now, let’s talk ergonomics. For a comfy sitting position, your feet should be flat on the ground, and your knees should make a neat 90-degree angle. Your forearms need to be either parallel or slightly sloping towards your desk.
In fact, to avoid the discomfort of sliding off your chair, it’s important to adjust the chair height for optimal balance and support. But this isn’t just about comfort.
It’s about keeping those pesky aches and pains at bay.
So, how do you find that sweet spot for chair height?
Here’s a nifty trick: stand in front of your chair and adjust its height so the top of the seat is just below your kneecap. Simple, yet effective!
Additional Considerations for Chair Selection
Choosing the right chair isn’t just about height. Consider the seat size and depth, back height, arm height, and how much you can tilt the chair.
It’s like a puzzle where each piece needs to fit you and your workspace perfectly.
Height Adjustment Solutions
What if your feet don’t touch the ground after all these adjustments? No worries, a footrest can be a game-changer.
And remember, it’s easier to adjust your chair for your arms first and then sort out your feet position.
Investing time finding and adjusting the right chair, or even considering office chair reupholstery for a personalized touch, can significantly enhance your comfort and productivity. Think of it as a crucial part of your office setup.
To stay productive, comfortable, and happy, ensure your chair size is perfect for your setup.
