The Best, Highly Reviewed (And Prettiest) Desk Chairs For 2023

Last year, the question of whether beautiful yet comfortable office chairs exist sparked a fascinating discussion. The answer, as it turns out, is subjective. The perfect desk chair depends on each person's individual needs, wants, and desires. If you spend long hours sitting at your desk, comfort should take precedence over aesthetics. However, if you only need a chair for a few hours a day, you can prioritize style. With so many options available, it's essential to find the desk chair that suits your requirements.

Really Pretty (But Non-Traditional) Desk Chairs

If your desk is situated in a common area, you might be looking for a chair that is both comfortable and visually appealing. Fortunately, you're not alone in this search. Many people have faced the same predicament. For those who work from home at their dining tables, traditional desk chairs may not be the ideal choice. Instead, comfortable yet attractive dining chairs or accent chairs can serve as beautiful alternatives. Additionally, incorporating lumbar supporting accessories can enhance comfort. Remember, getting up, stretching, and moving around during the day can be beneficial for your health.

Image Source: design by Jess Bunge for EHD | styling by Emily Bowser | photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | from: moto reveal: Jess’ home office

Here are some of our top picks:

1. Pula Modern White Boucle Dining Chair: This chair features a foam seat for optimal comfort and a beautiful boucle fabric that adds texture. The solid wood legs add to its special appeal.
2. Talbert Pillow Top Slipper Chair with Casters: Highly praised by reviewers, this chair offers great quality for its price. One customer mentioned, "This chair is a steal. It's so comfy and looks and feels like West Elm quality. I wish I had a need for every color, I'd buy them all."
3. 1980s Mario Bellini 413 Cab Armchair: This vintage chair brings a touch of nostalgia and elegance to any space. While it may not be suitable for all-day sitting, it serves as a beautiful decorative piece.
4. Azalea Green Velvet Chair: With its sleek design and comfortable seating, this modern green velvet chair is a stylish option. Adding a lumbar support pillow can enhance its comfort.
5. Foley Faux Mohair Dining Chair: This chair is simply gorgeous. With its unique and modern design, deep blue color, and rave reviews, it is a stunning choice for your workspace.
6. Salome Dining Chair: Plush and upholstered with buttery top-grain leather, this chair is not only comfortable but also incredibly attractive.
7. Mid 20th Century Danish Leather Office Guest Chair: A vintage midcentury modern armchair never goes out of style. This chair adds a touch of nostalgia to any Mad Men-inspired office.
8. Avont Upholstered Metal Dining Armchair: With its beautiful upholstery and metal frame, this chair has received rave reviews. One reviewer mentioned being able to sit on it for hours without discomfort.
9. Mazie Chair: Known for their quality and beautiful pieces, Room and Board offers this chair that has captured the hearts of customers. One customer exclaimed, "WOW! So many perfect things about this chair - insanely comfortable seat and back, sleek design, has armrests, easy to clean."

Design Forward Desk Chairs

If you prioritize style over maximum comfort, a design-forward desk chair might be the right choice for you. While these chairs may not be recommended for extended periods of sitting, they can still provide comfort and elegance. Consider adding a standing desk converter to your setup, allowing you to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Image Source: design by Priscilla Frost and Emily Henderson | styling by Emily Henderson | photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | from: a teen bedroom reveal! + 7 budget-friendly ideas gen-z loves

Here are some design-forward desk chair options:

1. Zarek Mid Century Upholstered Office Chair: This chair not only boasts a stylish design but is also surprisingly comfortable. Its wide seat accommodates sitting with your leg bent, and it offers good support for long periods of sitting.
2. Winged Arms Swivel Office Chair: With its elegant high back and high-gauge sinuous springs for extra seat cushion support, this chair is a classic choice.
3. Graham Grey Office Chair: This stylish office chair complements the moody vibe of a mid-century modern-style office.
4. Renato Modern Chenille and Burl Wood Chair: This chair strikes a balance between style and office functionality. Its circle base offers a unique aesthetic, but keep in mind that it is not equipped with wheels.
5. Orsen Modern Saddle Leather Office Chair: For an adjustable and edgy office chair that suits shorter sitting periods, this option is ideal. It balances attractive design with office appropriateness.
6. Finley Swivel Office Chair: With its brass legs and muted green upholstery, this chair adds a touch of luxury to any teen bedroom or glam office.
7. Upholstered Wraparound Office Chair: Featuring a back cutout and dual textures, this chair elevates your workspace beyond the standard desk chair.
8. Vintage Pollock Executive Swivel Chair in Black Leather: This vintage option exudes charm and sophistication. It's a chair that would be hard to resist for a real work-from-home office.
9. Nyle Suede Office Chair: Simple and elegant, this chair offers a beautiful camel suede color and texture. Just be mindful of spills since suede can be unforgiving.

Top Rated and Ergonomic

If you're ready for the real deal - ergonomic office chairs that prioritize your health and well-being - we have some top-rated options recommended by our trusted readers. These chairs are designed to provide optimal support and comfort, even during long hours of sitting.

Image Source: design and photo by Keyanna Bowen | from: blue walls be gone! Key's totally transformed office reveal - maybe the most dramatic before & after ever (?)

Here are our top picks for top-rated and ergonomic desk chairs:

1. Gesture Ergonomic Office Chair: Highly praised for its comfort and adjustability, this chair comes with an adjustable seat pan and arms that can be positioned to accommodate any height or preference.
2. Autonomous ErgoChair Pro: Rated as one of the best desk chairs for 2023, this chair offers exceptional comfort and durability. Customers have expressed their love for its support and overall quality.
3. Aeron Chair: Recommended by several readers, the Aeron Chair is regarded as an investment piece worth every penny. Its ergonomic design provides excellent support for long hours of sitting.
4. Ergonomic Chair: Highly rated and budget-friendly, this chair has been a game-changer for many. Customers appreciate its comfort, style, and adjustable features.
5. Steelcase Series™ 1 Office Chair: Ideal for plus-size and big and tall individuals, this chair offers easy assembly, lightweight construction, and great functionality. Customers have praised its comfort and lumbar support.
6. Tic Toc Chair: A stool that provides an ergonomic and enjoyable sitting experience, this chair has won the hearts of many. Customers love its oscillating motion and find it much more comfortable than traditional office chairs.
7. aeris Swopper New Edition Ergonomic Stool: Offering a backless design and a unique rocking function, this stool encourages core engagement and easy movement.
8. Gaiam Ultimate Balance Ball Chair: If you prefer frequent movement throughout the day, this ball chair may be the perfect choice. Customers have found it beneficial for their back and hip health.
9. Capisco Chair by HÅG: Despite its unconventional shape, this chair offers various sitting options, allowing you to find the most comfortable position. Customers love its versatility and unique design.

And there you have it - our top picks for desk chairs in 2023. If you have tried any of these options or have other recommendations, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy chair hunting!