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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.


The verdict in 10 seconds

Strongest all-rounder
Herman Miller AeronSuperb back support and build, but the fit isn't for everyoneSuits 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 X2Highly adjustable with strong lower-back support, but pricey and polarizingSuits 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 SaylComfortable, compact chair with solid back support, best for average heightsSuits 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.Every alternative, ranked
How each one compares with the Herman Miller Embody- 01

EXPOWNREL83Herman Miller Aeron
Superb back support and build, but the fit isn't for everyone
- 02

EXPOWNREL81Herman Miller Sayl
Comfortable, compact chair with solid back support, best for average heights
- 03

EXPOWNREL80Steelcase Gesture
Superbly comfortable, adjustable chair, but its lower-back support is gentle
Happier ownersHerman Miller Embody vs Steelcase Gesture → - 04

EXPOWNREL78Haworth Fern
Comfortable, well-built all-day chair with flexible back support at a steep price
Experts rate it higherHerman Miller Embody vs Haworth Fern → - 05

EXPOWNREL78HON Ignition 2.0
Comfortable, adjustable budget office chair with decent, not deluxe, back support
Happier ownersHerman Miller Embody vs HON Ignition 2.0 → - 06

EXPOWNREL75Branch Ergonomic Chair
Comfortable, very adjustable midrange chair with hard, fussy armrests
Different trade-offsHerman Miller Embody vs Branch Ergonomic Chair → - 07

EXPOWNREL72Autonomous ErgoChair Pro
Comfortable, very adjustable chair that's kind to most backs
Experts rate it higherHerman Miller Embody vs Autonomous ErgoChair Pro → - 08

EXPOWNREL67X-Chair X2
Highly adjustable with strong lower-back support, but pricey and polarizing
More reliableHerman Miller Embody vs X-Chair X2 →