Used Aeron Chair Selection Guide: The Ultimate Office Chair [Feature Comparison]
I can hardly believe it myself, but I bought a second-hand Aeron chair for my New York office.
Initially, I thought, “Isn’t it just a chair?” But after using one for 4 years, my body won’t accept anything less than an Aeron. The Aeron has proven itself to be the ultimate office chair.
However, even when buying a used Aeron, the choices between generations, features, and models can be overwhelming. Let me explain the criteria I used for my selection.
[Conclusion] Purchase a Used Full-Option Posture Fit Size B model for around $700
The Aeron is the ultimate office chair. New Aeron chairs are incredibly expensive, but the various sizes and models maintain excellent resale value. [Note] A headrest is completely unnecessary. Armrest covers are worth considering. There’s no need to look at other products—going straight for an Aeron is the right decision.
[Conclusion] A Full-Option Posture Fit Size B model for around $700 used is the optimal choice.
If I were buying an Aeron chair today, I’d recommend the “Used Aeron / Full-Option / Posture Fit Size B model.”
This model has all the features needed for the ultimate office chair experience. Therefore, select the most affordable used “Used Aeron / Full-Option / Posture Fit Size B model” that meets your quality standards.
In my case, I purchased a used one for $700 on Mercari. Let me explain each important feature in detail.
The Aeron is the Ultimate Office Chair
The Aeron is considered the king of office chairs because of its exceptional work efficiency. The main reasons are:
- Superior lumbar support (Posture Fit)
- Forward tilt function
The Aeron Has a Design That Promotes Concentration
Unlike regular chairs, the Aeron allows for a slight forward tilt. It also offers excellent lumbar support through the Posture Fit feature, making it easy to maintain proper posture.
This allows you to concentrate for long periods with minimal body discomfort. The Aeron is not a sofa-type chair for comfortable relaxation. It’s a chair optimized for focused work over extended periods.
Other Advantages of the Aeron
- Impressive durability with a 12-year warranty
- Breathable mesh material
- Sleek, simple design
- Leather or durable armrests
But the biggest advantages are the forward tilt and lumbar support. Once you get used to these features, working in other chairs becomes difficult and even uncomfortable.
New Aeron Chairs Are Quite Expensive
While the Aeron is appealing, a new one costs around $2,300. (The price has increased from $1,850 four years ago due to inflation.)
It’s hard to justify purchasing such an expensive chair, but since the Aeron has excellent durability, buying used is a smart option.
Aeron Sizes and Models
1. Sizes
The Aeron comes in 3 sizes:
- Size A: Small frame (under 150 lbs)
- Size B: Medium frame (suitable for most people: 130 lbs to 325 lbs)
- Size C: Large frame (wider seat, comfortable like a sofa but generally less suitable for focused work)
Size B is appropriate for most people.
2. Models
Aeron chairs come in 2 main versions:
| Model | Release Year | Options |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | 1994-2018 | Full-Option (7 features) / Light (3 features) |
| Remastered | 2018-present | Full-Option (7 features) / Light (3 features) |
I use the Remastered model in my New York office and a Classic model at home. There’s almost no noticeable difference in how they feel. The Remastered has a slightly stronger forward tilt angle.
3. Full-Option vs. Light
You should definitely choose the Full-Option. The Light model lacks essential features.
| Feature | Light | Full-Option |
|---|---|---|
| Seat height adjustment | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| Recline tension adjustment | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| Recline range adjustment | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| Lumbar support adjustment | ❌ | ⭕ |
| Forward tilt | ❌ | ⭕ |
| Armrest height adjustment | ❌ | ⭕ |
| Armrest angle adjustment | ❌ | ⭕ |
The Light model lacks lumbar support and forward tilt. Armrest adjustments aren’t available either, so the Full-Option is strongly recommended.
4. Posture Fit vs. Lumbar Support
There are two types of lumbar support:
- Lumbar Support (pre-2002 models): Basic lumbar support
- Posture Fit (post-2002 models): Enhanced lumbar support
You should choose a Posture Fit model.
Used Aeron Market Prices Remain Stable
Used Aeron prices are consistently stable. (Reference: [Used Price Trends]) The used chair I purchased was $700, and it will likely maintain a similar value five years later.
Therefore, if you no longer need it, you can sell it for a similar price. It’s much smarter to invest in a used Aeron for $700 than an unknown brand chair for $24-40.
[Note] A Headrest Is Completely Unnecessary
A headrest is entirely unnecessary for a work chair. The Aeron is designed for work efficiency, not relaxation.
The headrest is bulky and actually interferes with proper use. I bought one and ended up selling it separately.
Armrest Covers Are Worth Considering
Aeron armrests are made of leather or plastic material, which may develop an oily residue after extended use. Using an armrest cover makes maintenance easier. (Available on Amazon for about $24.99)
The Proper Way to Sit in an Aeron
- Adjust the height so your feet rest completely flat on the floor.
- Position your back firmly against the backrest.
- Adjust the armrests to a height where your elbows rest naturally.
- Set the chair slightly lower than you might expect. (The back of your thighs shouldn’t press against the front edge of the seat to ensure good blood circulation.)
How to Use Forward Tilt
- For focused work: Engage the forward tilt without leaning against the backrest.
- For regular work: Lean against the backrest with the tilt disabled.
If You’re Considering Other Products, Choose the Aeron
In conclusion, buying a used “Aeron / Full-Option / Posture Fit Size B model” for around $700 is the best choice.
I haven’t extensively tested other premium chairs for comparison, but most chairs over $1,300 draw inspiration from the Aeron’s design. In a similar price range, the Aeron with its stable resale value is the most logical choice.