IKEA Markus (~$199-249) is the floor for genuine ergonomics: lockable tilt, built-in lumbar hump, high back, 10-year warranty. Below this price, chairs become padded stools.
The Markus lacks adjustable arms — accept that or add an aftermarket arm pad.
At $100-180, 'gaming' chairs generally offer racing-shell aesthetics with worse lumbar support than the Markus.
If even the Markus stretches the budget, a used Leap/Aeron from liquidators beats any new budget chair.
| Spec | Markus |
|---|---|
| warranty | 10yr |
| tilt | lockable |
| material | fabric/mesh back |
Last updated: 2026-08-26
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