Even people who don’t officially work at home probably have a desktop computer on a desk. Instead of using a kitchen chair or other piece of furniture, why not buy an office chair for computer use? They are far more comfortable and versatile than an average chair. Sounds like a good idea? Here are some hints on how to buy a good one.
First, go to a brick and mortar store to buy one. Ask if they will honor Internet specials if possible, but don’t buy a virtual chair. Virtual chairs are only comfy for virtual backs and rear ends. Real people need to go to an office supply store and buy a real chair. In some stores, associates will be available to assist in buying a quality product, but nothing replaces actually sitting in a chair and looking it over to make the decision.
Don’t cheap out. A cheap chair may be good for some uses, but not for any prolonged sitting. Nice chairs can be had for under $100, but rarely under $60. These $20 “secretary chairs” are mostly plastic and about as durable as a toothpick. They may last for a while, but they are not comfortable and will break, eventually. Stay away from them.
Look, instead, for a mid-range price, say, from $70-$150. Most people can get a good office chair in that price range, especially if the store is having a sale, or if the model is being discontinued. This is not a problem, since most people never repair their office chairs, anyway. A good price is also more likely if you will take an item that doesn’t come in another color or fabric.
Now that a price range has been determined, think about what kind of chair is comfortable. What do you need for a good chair? Lower back support, armrests, an extra-padded seat? This is when sitting in the chair is paramount. It might also be a good idea to measure your keyboard’s height from the floor to determine if a chair is too tall or short for your needs. This is where a sales associate can be helpful in assisting in chair height. Even an adjustable chair may start out too short or too tall for your needs, and cannot be sufficiently raised or lowered to meet them. Look for a chair that feels good. If it is uncomfortable, it will not see as much use, and will subsequently be a waste of money.
Also look at the quality features. Try to pick a chair that has metal supports and legs, rather than hard plastic. These features will pay for themselves over the long haul. Also look for ease of adjustment, while raising and lowering the chair. Will it lean back? Does it need to? Does is swivel smoothly? Roll easily? All these are important for a usable, pleasing office chair.
If the chair needs to be assembled at home, be sure to ask the sales associate about ease of assembly. Are any special tools needed? Always cover these issues before paying for the chair, as well as the store’s return policy, should the chair break or warp.
Buy a home office chair as you would any other piece of home furniture: comfort, quality and price. All play key roles in the decision to buy, and the shopper should consider each carefully before writing the check.
