What’s the best office chair for a short person? The Herman Miller Aeron Size A is the only office chair designed for very short people (4’10” to 5’9″). Other top office chairs for short people suit sizes 5’3″ to 5’6″ (160- 167 cm). Learn the features and dimensions short people should look for when buying an office chair. Then, use these to review the best affordable ergonomic office chairs for sizes 5’6″ or shorter.
The point of an ergonomic chair is to support a healthy spinal posture while you sit. For that to happen, it’s crucial to use a chair that fits.
Each chair in this review has a size rating; use these to determine the fitting potential for your body type. You can also gauge a potential fit yourself by looking at three aspects:
- Seat depth: a seat too deep for short legs will distort good posture. People shorter than 5’3″ should look for a maximum depth of 18″.
- Lumbar support: a good height-adjustable range will let you customize your lower back support for your size.
- Adjustable armrest range: short people need a taller adjustable range to better support their arms. The Steelcase Series 1 sets the standard with a 6.5-11.5″ adjustable range
One factor that doesn’t matter much is a chair’s adjustable seat height. If the seat height doesn’t go low enough for your needs, add a footrest.
Quick Picks: Best Small Office Chairs
The $1700+ Size A Herman Miller Aeron is the only office chair for short people 5’0″ or less. The next best office chairs for short people fit sizes 5’3″ and up. Two factors rank them above others:
First, all meet functional ergonomic requirements (adjustable lumbar, arms, & recline) to support neutral sitting postures. Second, they all have seat depths suitable for shorter legs.
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3D Lumbar Alternatives For Short People
ChairsFX rates 3D dynamic lumbars as the worst lower back support systems available. These ‘dynamically’ extend outward — but most units are not height-adjustable.
The C7 chair’s dynamic lumbar flexes with downward pressure to support the lower back.
Without a perfect fit, it’s likely a 3D lumbar will hit the wrong spot of your spine. The following chairs get around that with adjustments designed to support short sizes:
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5 Best Office Chairs For Short People
Excluding the Aeron Size A, the 5 best office chairs for short people support sizes 5’3″ to 5’4″ (160-162.5 cm) and up.
- Steelcase Series 1: for sizes 5’4″+; height-adjustable lumbar, seat slider; 12-year warranty. ( $498.00 on Amazon )
- Sidiz T50: for sizes 5’3″+; has good features (includes a seat slider) & a 3-year warranty. ( $419.00 on Amazon )
- Nouhaus Palette: for sizes 5’3″+; height-adjustable lumbar, 3-year warranty, colorful styles. ( $199.99 on Amazon )
- Secretlab NeueChair: a flashy full-mesh chair for sizes 5’3″+ with a 5-year warranty. ( $729 from Secretlab )
- Staples Hyken: full mesh chair with advanced tilt functionality — but only a 30-day return policy. ( $184.99 on Amazon )
STAR RATINGS: the top-rated Series 1 scores highest with complete features and a 12-year warranty. Other models lose points for missing/ inferior features, functional quirks, or durability issues.
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Steelcase Series 1
$498.00 on Amazon | Size rating: 5’4″ to 6’2″, 300 lbs
Like all Steelcase office chairs, the Series 1 supports good posture over long periods — backed by a 12-year Steelcase warranty. But unlike other Steelcase chairs, the Series 1 is affordable.
4.5 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 4D arms; height-adjustable lumbar support; 100-120° recline; 2° seat sync-tilt
- Seat: 19.2″ (W) x 15.75-18″ (adjustable D)
- Warranty: 12 years
Pros
- Solid build quality
- Excellent armrest adjustability
- 12-year warranty
- Very easy to use
Cons
- Only has three recline modes: 100°, 110°, and 120°
- Plain cubicle-style design
- Not as luxurious as pricier Steelcase chairs.
The Series 1 offers everything the $1300+ Steelcase Gesture chair does, minus a lockable backrest recline. Instead, you can lock the seat at 100° or recline using two weight-activated modes.
A dial under the right side of the seat controls tilting modes. Turn forward to lock upright, or rearward to engage regular or boosted tension recline modes.
Series 1 Key Features
Getting used to the Series 1 chair’s back support concepts only takes a few minutes. In the first image below, I sat in a Series 1 without making any adjustments.
In the second, I adjusted the lumbar support, armrests, and seat height using this Series 1 User Guide. You can see the postural result for yourself.
Summary of Series 1 Features
- Height-adjustable lumbar: 6.5″ to 8.75″
- Recline + Sync tilt: 100-120° rocking range; 2° seat sync-tilt during recline
- Adjustable arms: 6.5″ to 11.5″ height range; 40° pivot left or right
- Seat: 15.75″ to 18″ adjustable depth
- Warranty: 12 years
Series 1 Adjustability For Short People
The Series 1 chair is rated to support sizes 5’4″ and up. However, its 15.75-18″ adjustable seat seat depth and 16.5-21.5″ adjustable seat height can support much shorter sizes.
The only thing barring users shorter than 5’4″ from using a Series 1 is its lumbar support. It adjusts from 6.5″ to 8.75″ above the seat — those 5’3″ and shorter might find it doesn’t adjust low enough for their size.
Series 1 Dimensions Vs Other Small Chairs
| Spec | Aeron Size A | Titan Small | Series 1 |
| Seat width x depth | 15.75″ (W) x 16.75″ (D) | 17.7″ (W) x 18.9″ (D) | 19.2″ (W) x 15.75″ to 18″ (D) |
| Backrest width x height | 20.25″(W) x 21″ (H) | 20″(W) x 32.3″ (H) | 21.5″ (W) x 21.5″ (H) |
| Seat height range | 14.75″ to 19″ | 17.7″ to 20.5″ | 16.5″ to 21.5″ |
| Size rating | 4’10” to 5’9″; 300 pounds | 4’11” to 5’6″; 285 pounds | 5’4″ to 6’1″; up to 300 pounds |
| Price | $1750+ from Herman Miller | $549 from Secretlab | $498.00 on Amazon |
Series 1 Chair Advice For Short People
The Series 1 is the best affordable office chair for short people. It fulfills all ergonomic requirements in support of healthy neutral postures. It’s also guaranteed for 12 years.
In my experience, its biggest downside is psychological. Healthy posture support on its own is boring – once you’ve achieved that, you’ll forget about it!
To mask that reality, many demand flashy aesthetics or luxury extras when shopping for a good chair. However, the thrill of flashy extras is temporary.
In contrast, good posture support in a Series 1 can last for 12 years (for around $41 per year). It isn’t flashy — it just works.
Learn more: Healthy Sitting Quickstart For the Steelcase Series 1
Sidiz T50
$419.00 from Amazon | Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’12, 275 lbs
The Sidiz T50 exceeds the Series 1 with 5 recline lock angles and a height x depth adjustable lumbar. It’s also around $130 cheaper — but with a shorter warranty and no sync-tilting seat functions.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 3D arms; height x depth-adjustable lumbar support; 100-115° recline (5 lock positions); depth-adjustable seat
- Seat: 20.25″ (W) x 17.3″(D)
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Does everything you need
- Height x depth-adjustable lumbar support
- Decent (3-year) warranty for the price
- A headrest is included
Cons
- Works better without using the headrest
- Has a narrower recline range than competing chairs
- The 18.1-21.5″ seat height range is too high for short legs (without a footrest)
Sidiz T50 Overview For Short People
Sidiz rates the T50 for sizes 5’3″ and up; slightly shorter users can add a footrest to use this comfortably at a standard-sized desk (28″ or taller).
Highlights include a 2-way adjustable lumbar that lets you toggle both height x depth. You can also reduce the depth of the seat from 21-18.3″ — a suitable range for both average and short sizes. The T50 also comes bundled with a headrest.
However, it’s a hard plastic piece covered in foam and faux leather. You can adjust the height and angle — but it’s tricky to find a good fit. Shorter users will find the headrest fit even worse.
For best results, short users should remove the headrest and forget about it.
T50 Ergonomic Features
The T50 has good lumbar support, 3D arms, and a decent backrest recline. It also has a 90-115° recline range with 5 lockable positions. That’s enough to keep your body moving while you sit.
However, such a small range forces you to sit in near-upright working postures at all times. If you prefer a more ‘lounge style’ sitting experience, look into a premium small gaming chair instead.
Sidiz T50 Office Chair Specifications
The main issue for short people is the T50’s 18.1″ minimum seat height. In comparison, the Herman Miller Size A seat lowers to 14.75″; the Steelcase Series 1 seat lowers to 15.75″. To make use of a T50, short sizes must use a footrest.
- Features: 90- 115° recline; 3D arms; height x depth-adjustable lumbar; seat slider.
- Headrest: included.
- Upholstery: breathable mesh backrest; fabric padded seat.
- Warranty: 30-day money back guarantee; 3-year warranty.
- Seat width x depth: 19.9″ (W) x 18.9″-21.6″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 18.7″ (W) x 20.5″ (H)
- Seat height range: 18.1-21.5″
- Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’2″; up to 275 pounds
Sidiz T50 Advice For A Short Person
By adding a footrest and removing the headrest, short users can enjoy a great sitting experience in a T50 chair. For one thing, elegant design will brighten up any workspace.
For another, the robust adjustable features provide superb back support. The combination of function, style, and affordability explains why the T50 is such a popular office chair for short people.
To learn more, check out our detailed Sidiz T50 chair review.
Nouhaus Palette Office Chair
$199.99 on Amazon | Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’1, 240 lbs
The Nouhaus Palette is a cheaper, less adjustable version of the Sidiz T50 for sizes 5’3″ and up.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 1D arms; height-adjustable lumbar support; 100-135° rocker; 1° seat sync-tilt
- Seat: 20.25″ (W) x 17.3″(D)
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Classy aesthetics
- Easy to use
- Guaranteed for 3 years
Cons
- No locking recline (only rocking)
- Feels flimsier than the Series 1
- Some complain the seat padding is too stiff.
Up front, the Palette is an attractive, affordable office chair with impressive features. But most office chairs priced under $350 wear down quickly over time. The Palette feels like it will do the same.
You may need to tighten its screws every few months. Some Amazon reviewers have also complained that the seat padding feels too firm over 8-hour sessions. If so, looking into buying a Purple Seat Cushion.
Functional Highlights
The Palette lacks a tilt-locking recline. You can rock from 100-135° or lock upright — but not lock at angles. Its star feature is an adjustable lumbar — with a rear viewing window.
Its lumbar support also lowers to the bottom of the seat pan — excellent adjustability for short people.
Functionality Summary
- Upholstery: padded fabric seat; mesh backrest
- Lumbar support: height-adjustable (4″ range)
- Armrests: 1D (3.4″ height adjustment range)
- Recline: 90-135° rock + 1° seat tilt
- Warranty: 3-year protection from Nouhaus.com.
Palette Sizing
The Palette’s seat is only .55″ (1.3 cm) deeper than the Aeron Size A – a good fit for short legs. In contrast, its 17.5-21.25″ adjustable seat high may leave short legs dangling. If so, add a footrest.
| Spec | Aeron Size A | Steelcase Series 1 | Nouhaus Palette |
| Seat width x depth | 15.75″ (W) x 16.75″ (D) | 19.2″ (W) x 15.75-18″ (D) | 20.25″ (W) x 17.3″(D) |
| Backrest width x height | 20.25″(W) x 21″ (H) | 21.5″ (W) x 21.5″ (H) | 18.3″ (top) x 20.5″ (H) |
| Seat height range | 14.75″ to 19″ | 16.5-21.5″ | 17.5-21.25″ |
| Size rating | 4’10” to 5’9″; 300 pounds | 5’4″ to 6’1″; 300 pounds | 5’3″ to 6’1″; 240 pounds |
| Price | $1750+ from Herman Miller | $498.00 on Amazon | $199.99 on Amazon |
Nouhaus Palette Advice
The institutional definition of ‘ergonomic’ isn’t complex. An adjustable lumbar + adjustable armrests + a reclining backrest supports neutral sitting positions. The Palette follows this formula with a sync-tilting seat as the only functional extra.
Beyond its basic ergonomic features, styling is its main selling point. It resembles the super-popular Haworth Fern. The Palette replicates that look with its own viewing window + height-adjustable lumbar combo. Like the Fern, it comes in an array of colorful fabric seat and mesh backrest combos.
Secretlab NeueChair
$729 from Secretlab | Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’0″, 240 lbs
The ($1700+) Herman Miller Aeron is the most expensive full-mesh, fully-ergonomic desk chair for short people. The $184.99 Staples Hyken is the cheapest. The NeueChair (pronounced ‘noy-you’) fits between those extremes: a luxury full-mesh sitting experience for half the price of an Aeron.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 2D arms; height x depth-adjustable lumbar; 85-130° recline; full mesh upholstery
- Seat: 19.6″ (W) x 16.5″-18.5″ (D)
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- High-quality mesh upholstery
- Infinite tilt (lock at any angle between 85-130°
- Sexy polished steel frame with a solid frame
- Funky control levers under each armrest
Cons
- The armrests are only 2D
- No seat sync tilt (the seat remains flat during reclines)
After the Aeron, the NeueChair (pronounced ‘noy-you’) is the most luxurious full mesh office chair for short sizes 5’3″ and up.
Slightly shorter should also be able to use this chair by adding a footrest. Then, two adjustable features let shorter users tailor the Neue experience for their size.
The first is a depth-adjustable seat with a 16.5-18.5″ range. Those with shorter thighs can slide it back to 16.5″ for an excellent fit.
The second is a height x depth-adjustable lumbar support. Those slightly shorter than 5’3″ can lower the support to better fit their size.
Summary of features
Beyond its back support features, the Neue serves up a polished ADC12 aluminum frame draped in adaptive mesh upholstery.
NeueMesh is a 3-layer mesh that combines top-grade polyester fiber and DuPont yarn. It delivers a plush experience that justifies its higher price. But if money’s tight, cheaper, less luxurious options can provide a similar level of back support.
- Armrests: 2D adjustable (up and down, side-to-side).
- Seat: height and depth adjustable.
- Backrest: recline from 85° to 130°; tilt tension and angle lock.
- Lumbar: height-adjustable
- Warranty: 12 years on the frame; 5 years on components; 3 years on armrests, casters & gas lift.
NeueChair Dimensions
Secretlab rates the NeueChair to fit sizes 5’3″ to 6’0″. Its flat, wide seat supports both slim and thick sizes. Here’s how it compares with other small office chairs:
| Spec | Aeron Size A | Steelcase Series 1 | NeueChair |
| Seat width x depth | 15.75″ (W) x 16.75″ (D) | 19.2″ (W) x 15.75-18″ (D) | 19.6″ (W) x 16.5″-18.5″ ( |
| Backrest width x height | 20.25″(W) x 21″ (H) | 21.5″ (W) x 21.5″ (H) | 19.5″ (W) x 22.4″ (H) |
| Seat height range | 14.75″ to 19″ | 16.5-21.5″ | 18.5-22″ |
| Size rating | 4’10” to 5’9″; 300 pounds | 5’4″ to 6’1″; 300 pounds | 5’3″ to 6’0″; up to 240 pounds |
| Price | $1750+ from Herman Miller | $498.00 on Amazon | $729 from Secretlab |
NeueChair Advice
The NeueChair’s $729 price is a tough sell for short people. For one thing, it only has 2D armrests — mediocre for the price. For another, it’s not ideal for ultra-small sizes shorter than 5’3″.
For around $200 less, a small-sized Secretlab Titan offers superior functionality and a better fit. On the other hand, if the Aeron Size A is too pricey, the NeueChair is almost as luxurious, and around half the price.
NeueChair from Secretlab for $729
Learn more: Secretlab NeueChair Review: Affordable Luxury Mid-Back Ergonomic
Staples Hyken
$184.99 on Amazon | Size rating: 5’3″ to 5’10”, 250 lbs
Despite its low price, the Hyken has powerful features under the hood. The tradeoff is durability: if used full-time, expect needing a replacement chair after a year or so.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 1D arms; height-adjustable lumbar; 100-140° recline; full mesh upholstery
- Seat: 19.3″ (W) x 16.5″ (D)
- Warranty: 30-day return policy
Pros
- Full mesh upholstery
- Great adjustable features for the price
- Comes with a built-in 1° seat sync tilt
Cons
- Awkward headrest (remove it for best results)
- Its flimsy build wears down quickly if used full-time
Hyken Overview For Short People
“Why pay more, when a $200 chair does the same job?” This was Techlead’s justification for choosing the Hyken as the best desk chair for programmers.
The only real downside is its flimsy build. If used full-time, expect the mesh to sag and parts to loosen within a year. If you can live with that, this is a solid starter chair for first-time ergo chair users.
Hyken Specifications
Usage is simple. Adjust the height of the seat, armrests, and lumbar support to suit your size. Then, plant your feet and tuck your hips deep into the seat. As a bonus, powerful recline and sync tilt functions make it easy to move your body while you sit.
Healthy posture support + opportunities to move is the textbook aim of every ergonomic chair. Getting that in a $184.99 full-mesh package optimized for short people makes the poor durability a lot easier to accept.
The Hyken also comes bundled with an ill-fitting headrest. Users of all sizes should remove it to ensure the best results. Minus the headrest, this is a solid option for short people.
- Features: 100-140° recline (4 lock positions); 1D arms; height-adjustable lumbar; 1° seat tilt; headrest included
- Upholstery: full mesh seat and backrest.
- Warranty: 30-day return policy.
- Seat width x depth: 19.3″ (W) x 16.5″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 16.2″ (W) x 23.2″ (H)
- Seat height: 16.9-19.7″
- Size rating: 5’3″ to 5’10”; 250-pound weight capacity.
Hyken Advice
The Hyken is proof that you don’t need to pay big money for complete ergonomics. There’s nothing significant to complain about — everything works as expected.
The catch is durability. After a year of full-time use, saggy mesh and loosened parts will render your chair noisy and unstable. If you can live with that, expect no other surprises.
Staples Hyken from Amazon $184.99
Learn more: Staples Hyken Office Chair Review
Dynamic Lumbar Chair Alternatives
Dynamic 3D lumbar support systems flex forward as a user reclines. Most don’t let you adjust the height. But every human spine has a unique length. Without height-adjustability, the chance of lumbar support hitting the wrong spot is high.
The following two models overcome non-adjustable 3D lumbar limits. Both are also optimized for short people, with impressive features under the hood.
Flexispot C7 Office Chair
$369.99 from Flexispot | Size rating: 5’4″ to 6’2″, 300 lbs
Flexispot is a standing desk specialist manufacturer that also makes office chairs. Its C7 ergonomic office chair comes with an adjustable dynamic lumbar system designed to support tall and short sizes.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 4D arms; 100-128° recline; depth-adjustable seat; lockable dynamic lumbar.
- Seat: 18.9″ (W) x 17.3-19.6″ (D)
- Warranty: 3 years on parts
Pros
- Impressive adjustability for the price
- The dynamic lumbar has 3 lockable positions
- 3-year mesh and tilt mechanism warranty
Cons
- The lumbar support system is an acquired taste
- The complex warranty has too many different terms
The biggest problem with 3D lumbar support systems is the lack of height-adjustability. Without that, it’s impossible to ensure a perfect fit for your size. The C7’s 3D lumbar overcomes that by working in both dynamic and adjustable modes.
The latter lets you angle and lock the lumbar support in three different positions. Taller sizes can use the lumbar in its default dynamic mode. That flexes forward with mild pressure to support the lower back.
Shorter sizes can lock the unit downward at three different angles. Then, the unit lowers enough to support more compact spines.
Features
The only issue short people might have with the C7 chair’s specs is the 19.9″ minimum seat height. Short people will need a footrest to make use of this chair.
- Features: 90-128° recline (5 lock positions); 4D arms; dynamic lumbar; headrest included
- Upholstery: padded seat & mesh backrest (a full mesh version is available).
- Warranty: 3 years on mesh and seat mechanism.
- Seat width x depth: 18.9″ (W) x 17.3-19.6″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 26.7″ (W) x 22.8″ (H)
- Seat height: 19.9-22.64″
- Size rating: 5’4″ to 6’2″; 300-pound weight capacity.
Flexispot C7 Advice
The C7 is a solid alternative option for short people. The only issue is its 19.9-22.64″ seat height (too tall for short legs). If so, add a footrest.
The C7 chair’s dynamic lumbar flexes with downward pressure to support the lower back.
Then, the C7 provides solid lower back support with enough luxury extras for petite sizes to enjoy.
A full-mesh C7 Air version is also available for $419.99
Sihoo Doro C300
$299.99 from Sihoo | Size rating: 5’4″ to 6’2″, 300 lbs
The Sihoo Doro C300 has a non-adjustable dynamic lumbar support system. To allow a custom fit, users can instead adjust the height of the entire backrest with a 6 cm range.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
- Features: 3D arms; 100-112° recline; dynamic lumbar; height-adjustable backrest.
- Seat: 20″ (W) x 16.5″ (D)
- Warranty: 3 years (excluding wear and tear)
Pros
- Luxurious full-mesh upholstery
- The height-adjustable backrest can also adjust the lumbar support
- Solid 3-year warranty
Cons
- The height-adjustable lumbar range is only 2.4″ (6 cm)
Sihoo Doro C300 Specifications
This chair comes full-featured (minus seat sync-tilt functionality). The star feature is the dynamic lumbar support. Paired with a height-adjustable backrest, you can customize the support for your size.
With precise back support assured, the rest of the Doro’s features stack up as pleasing luxury extras:
- Backrest: recline and lock at 92°, 100°, or 112°; 20.4-22.8″ adjustable height.
- Lumbar support: dynamic self-adapting.
- Headrest: height and angle-adjustable.
- Seat: waterfall-shaped breathable mesh.
- Armrests: 3D adjustable with cushioned top covers.
- Warranty: 3 years.
- Seat width x depth: 20″ (W) x 16.5″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 21.2″ (W) x 20.4-22.8″ (adjustable H)
- Seat height range: 15.7-17.2″
- Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’0″; 330 pounds
Sihoo Doro C300 Advice
The Steelcase Series 1 ranks #1 in this review with straightforward ergonomic support. On the downside, its plain design may leave some underwhelmed.
The Doro C300 spices things up with sexy full-mesh upholstery and powerful back support technologies. For short people wanting more than good back support, this sweet ride has plenty to offer.
The Doro C300 is also available on Amazon for $279.99.
Small Office Chair Fitting Advice
A suitable seat depth is the most important spec short users should consider when shopping for a chair. Lumbar support that can adjust to support smaller sizes is also key. Adding a footrest and removing the headrest can also benefit sizes 5’6″ or shorter.
An Appropriate Seat Depth For Short Legs
Using a seat that’s too deep for your legs will pull your knees forward and distort your posture.
With that in mind, here are the seat depths and size ratings for the top 5 chairs in this review. You can use these seat depths as references to assess other compact models:
| Model | Seat Depth | Size Rating | Price |
| Steelcase Series 1 | 15.75″ to 18″ (adjustable) | 5’4″ to 6’1″, 300 pounds | $498.00 |
| Sidiz T50 | 18.3″-21″ (adjustable) | 5’3″ to 6’0″, 250 pounds | $419.00 |
| Nouhaus Palette | 17.3″ | 5’3″ to 6’1″, 240 pounds | $199.99 |
| Secretlab NeueChair | 16.5″ to 18.5″ (adjustable) | 5’3″ to 6’1″, 240 pounds | $729 |
| Staples Hyken | 16.5″ | 5’3″ to 5’10”, 250 pounds | $184.99 |
An Adjustable Lumbar That Fits Your Spine
A healthy standing spine maintains a 25-45° lower back curve. Sitting flattens that curve, forcing back muscles to work harder holding the torso upright.
Every office chair in this review prevents this using a lumbar-powered support concept. The gist: lower back support 4 cm deep placed slightly above the beltline maintains a healthy spinal alignment while you sit. That prevents muscle strain.
As a result, users can sit comfortably for long periods without fatigue. Learn more:
Add A Footrest; REMOVE The Headrest
Here are two more tips for short people enjoy the most supportive fit possible in their new office chair:
All Short People Need An Ergonomic Footrest
A chair’s adjustable seat height range is irrelevant. Most standard desks are 28″ or taller. To make use of one while keeping their feet planted, everyone 5’8″ or shorter should use a footrest.
Using a footrest will better sync your chair’s armrests with the desk. It will also help short users sit taller in their chairs.
Beyond height-boosting, ergonomic footrests also let you work your legs while you sit — without disturbing your typing! Learn more:
Remove The Headrest For Optimal Neck Support
Office chair headrests are only meant to cradle the neck during deep reclines. However, most have poor adjustability. For instance, with a 100° recline, the (non-depth-adjustable) Steelcase Leap headrest tilts my neck forward.
My 5’9″ (177 cm) size finds an awkward fit with most office chair headrests. Shorter sizes will find them even worse: expect headrest curves hitting the head above the neck.
Bottom line: remove your office chair headrest to enjoy the best back support from your office chair. Learn more:
Small Gaming Chair Alternatives
Besides the Aeron size A, there are four gaming chairs that fit people 5’0″ or shorter.
Here’s how the dimensions of two top-rated models compare with the Herman Miller Size A:
| Small | Titan EVO small | Aeron size A | AKRacing California |
| Seat | 17.7″ (W) x 18.9″ (D) | 25.75″ (W) x 16″ (D) | 21″ (W) x 17.7″ (D) |
| Backrest | 20″ (W) x 32.3″ (H) | 20.25″(W) x 21″ (H) | 21″(W) x 27.7″ (H) |
| Seat height | 17.7″ to 20.5″ | 14.75″ to 19″ | 13.75″ to 17.25″ |
| Size rating | 4’11” to 5’6″; 285 pounds | 4’10” to 5’9″; 300 pounds | 4’9″ to 5’6″; 330 pounds |
| Price | $549 from Secretlab | $1750 from Herman Miller | $350.99 on Amazon |
For more small gaming chair options, check out this comprehensive review:
Conclusion: Small Office Chair Comfort
The best ergonomic office chair for small sizes is the Herman Miller Aeron (for sizes 4’10” to 5’9″). The Steelcase Series 1 ranks as the next-best — because of its physical back support qualities.
However, the ‘comfort’ of a chair includes both physical and psychological factors. On the psychological front, the Series 1 is a bit boring.
Other chairs add psychological lures on top of good back support to sweeten the deal. For instance, the Palette comes in an array of pretty fabric colors. Neue, Hyken, and Doro chairs come clad in cool, stylish mesh.
Advice: use the sizing tips outlined in this article to gauge a chair’s fitting potential. Among the models that fit, choose one that makes you feel happy. Then, develop an active neutral sitting habit to give your spine the love it deserves.
Recap: Best Affordable Office Chairs For Short People
- Steelcase Series 1: for sizes 5’4″ and up; height-adjustable lumbar, seat slider; 12-year warranty. ( $498.00 on Amazon )
- Sidiz T50: good features (includes a seat slider)+ a 3-year warranty. ( $419.00 on Amazon )
- Nouhaus Palette: for sizes 5’3″+; height-adjustable lumbar, 3-year warranty, colorful styles. ( $199.99 on Amazon )
- Secretlab NeueChair: a flashy full-mesh chair for sizes 5’3″+ with a 5-year warranty. ( $729 from Secretlab )
- Staples Hyken: full mesh chair with advanced tilt functionality — but only a 30-day warranty. ( $184.99 on Amazon )
- Flexispot C7: a multi-sized chair with an adjustable dynamic lumbar.( $369.999 from Flexispot )
- Sihoo Doro C300: a sexy full-mesh chair with a dynamic lumbar + a height-adjustable backrest.( $299.999 from Sihoo )
