If you’re looking for the ideal seating solution for your workspace or home office, you’ll probably have to make a choice between ergonomic chairs vs. traditional chairs.
In this short but detailed guide, we’ll cover how they are alike and, more importantly, how they differ in significant ways. Understanding the differences between these two types of chairs will inform your decision and help you choose the chair that’ll facilitate hours of comfortable work and provide years of reliable use.
What are traditional chairs?
Though the term “traditional chairs” is broad, in this context, we’ll use it to describe the average office chair that has been used for years. Though these chairs are built with the human body in mind, factoring in proper posture and adjustability, they are also made to be highly affordable. This is both a benefit and a downside, allowing you to secure one relatively cheaply but skipping out on durable materials and aesthetically pleasing designs.
What are ergonomic chairs?
Where traditional chairs are made to get the job done with minimal cost, ergonomic chairs provide as much comfort, support and advanced features as possible. More effort and science are used in their design to facilitate hours of productive work without putting the musculoskeletal system at risk. For more information on what makes ergonomic chairs a step above the rest, check out our blog on the science behind ergonomic chairs.
Ergonomic chairs vs. traditional chairs
All chairs serve the same basic function: they offer a place to sit. Whether it's an office chair or a dining chair, whether relaxing or working, a chair is undoubtedly an essential piece of furniture you simply can’t do without. However, not all chairs are created equal. When trying to decide between ergonomic chairs vs. traditional chairs, keep in mind the factors in which they differ:
The influence on posture is one of the fundamental distinctions between traditional office chairs and ergonomic seats. Ergonomic chairs are intended to encourage healthy posture by supporting the spine and encouraging a neutral sitting position. This promotes proper blood circulation and alleviates the strain on your muscles and bones, which tends to occur due to many hours spent sitting. Traditional chairs, on the other hand, may not provide appropriate support and might eventually lead to bad posture.
The back is usually the first to ache with hours of continued work while in a sitting position. Over time, this discomfort can develop into constant back pain and several musculoskeletal issues, hindering your overall productivity.
Though traditional office chairs try to prevent this by offering comfort and support, ergonomic chairs are far more effective. Ergonomic chairs are designed to fit seamlessly into the natural curvature of your body and often come with adjustable features that can improve overall comfort and support.
Adjustability is a key feature of ergonomic chairs that sets them apart from traditional chairs. Ergonomic chairs are equipped with various adjustable features, such as seat height, backrest angle and armrest height. These features allow the user to customise the chair to fit their individual needs and ensure optimal comfort and support. Traditional chairs, on the other hand, have limited or no adjustability options.
- Productivity benefits
Another important factor to consider when choosing between an ergonomic chair vs. traditional chair is the impact on productivity. Ergonomic chairs are designed to enhance productivity by providing the user with comfort and support, allowing them to focus on their work without the distraction of aches and pains. Traditional chairs may not offer the same level of comfort, which can impact productivity in the long run.
Which is better?
The best option will ultimately depend on what you’re looking for and what your budget allows. A traditional chair will be sufficient if you don’t spend much time sitting down and you’re only looking for a seating solution that’s comfortable enough at a low cost.
But if you’re looking for a chair that allows you to work, study or play games for hours without compromising your well-being, an ergonomic chair is an investment you should look into.
Though ergonomic chairs might cost a little more than traditional options, the support, comfort and adjustability make them well worth the investment. They are also made with higher-quality materials, which leads to better durability and a longer lifespan.
At SIHOO, we carry a wide range of ergonomic chairs from some of the best manufacturers in the world, allowing you to find an option that provides all the benefits you’re looking for while staying within budget.
Looking for the ideal ergonomic chair? Turn to SIHOO!
When choosing the best ergonomic office chair, SIHOO is a trusted brand offering a premium range of ergonomic designs. Our ergonomic office chairs are designed to provide optimal comfort, support, and adjustability, ensuring you can work with better posture and lower the risk of back pain.
Shop our range of thoughtfully engineered furniture today. Enjoy Australia-wide shipping and a plethora of secure payment options, allowing you to make an investment in comfort from the comfort of your own home. If you have any questions about our products, please contact us — we’d be more than happy to help.