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Cheap office chairs don’t have to be uncomfortable. Or ugly. You just have to know what to look for in buying office chairs.

1. Choose ergonomic chairs. There are several inexpensive brands to choose from. Just make sure they have the typical ergonomic office chair features such as adjustable back, seat swivel and armrests. The office chair should provide support and proper alignment for the back, legs, arms and neck. Also, make sure there is proper lumbar support or support for the lower back.

2. Check the adjustment controls. You should easily move the back from high to low to mid level positions. You should also be able to adjust the seat depth and width. The adjustment controls should be easy to reach and you should be able to press the buttons or crank the levers as you are seated. If you are straining while trying to adjust the chair’s height, tilt or swivel, look for another office chair.   

3. You can easily find these ergonomic features and adjustment controls in cheap office chairs, just don’t be afraid to ask around, check out several stores and vendors and read up on reviews and other information.

4. Going for ergonomic chairs – and they are not necessarily expensive – makes a lot of sense. Better, more comfortable office chairs can help prevent neck and back pain. Neck and back pain, as you know, directly affect the health and productivity of employees.   

5. Swivels help avoid pain from excessive twisting and stretching.

6.  Make sure the chair is stable. Choose one that won’t tip over when you recline.

7. Head to reliable office superstores so you can try out different chairs and compare prices.

8. You can also go online and check out office stores and e-commerce sites. There are lots of options and great office chair deals to be discovered online. Just make sure you give the picture of the product a good look before you make your choice. Read up on features, function, user comments and reviews. And don’t forget: you will also be paying for shipping costs. 

9. Choose the material or fabric that will work for you in the long run. Leather and vinyl are easier to clean; fabric upholstery, on the other hand, is less expensive and is more permeable. Permeable materials allow liquids and gases to go through.

10. Office chairs that will be used for longer hours should be made of sturdier materials. Those that will be used for just a few hours may have lighter build quality. For chairs that will be in use for 24 hours, you will need suitable upholstery.

11. Check for the manufacturer’s guarantee. Some offer guarantee for 1 year, 2 years, 5 years and even 15 years.

12. There should be an indication that the office chairs conform to industry standards and have passed quality tests.