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Best alternatives to the Herman Miller Embody

The Herman Miller Embody is already among the best we've found; the Herman Miller Aeron comes closest.

Herman Miller Embody

The verdict in 10 seconds

The Herman Miller Aeron at work: an ergonomic chair in a sunny home office

Strongest all-rounder

Herman Miller AeronHerman Miller AeronSuperb back support and build, but the fit isn't for everyone

Suits you if

  • You sit at a desk all day and want strong lower-back support
  • You like a firm, upright seat and a mesh back that stays cool

Most dependable

X-Chair X2X-Chair X2Highly adjustable with strong lower-back support, but pricey and polarizing

Suits you if

  • You sit at a desk most of the day and want firm lower-back support
  • You enjoy fine-tuning a chair to fit your body exactly

Easiest to live with

Herman Miller SaylHerman Miller SaylComfortable, compact chair with solid back support, best for average heights

Suits you if

  • You're petite to average height and sit at a desk all day
  • You have a smaller home office and want a chair that doesn't take over the room

The short version

If the Herman Miller Embody isn't quite right, start with the Herman Miller Aeron: it suits you if you sit at a desk all day and want strong lower-back support. The Herman Miller Embody is still a great fit if you sit at a desk most of the day and want a chair that moves with you.

We researched 45 expert reviews, analyzed 16,822 owner ratings and comments across 16 sources for 9 office chairs, and cross-checked them into one verdict, so you don't have to.

Quick answers

What is the best alternative to the Herman Miller Embody?

The Herman Miller Aeron. It suits you if you sit at a desk all day and want strong lower-back support.

Based on: Product Review score 83 vs 80 for the Herman Miller Embody, across 8 alternatives.

Is there a more reliable alternative to the Herman Miller Embody?

Yes, the X-Chair X2. It's less likely to give you trouble.

Based on: Reliability 100 for the X-Chair X2 vs 91.

What is the best alternative to the Herman Miller Embody from another brand?

The Steelcase Gesture. It suits you if you sit at a desk for long hours and want all-day comfort.

Based on: Highest-scoring model not made by Herman Miller (80).

Is there a cheaper alternative to the Herman Miller Embody?

Yes, the Herman Miller Aeron. It usually costs less and suits you if you sit at a desk all day and want strong lower-back support.

Based on: Typical prices: Herman Miller Embody $1,695–$2,075; Herman Miller Aeron $1,520.