Best Office Chairs for Short People (UK)
Most office chairs are designed for average height
which means they often don’t fit shorter users properly
The problem isn’t features — it’s finding something
that actually fits your body properly.
These picks focus on adjustability, seat depth
and chairs that don’t feel oversized.
Best overall – SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Office Chair
Best value – IKEA MARKUS
Best premium – Steelcase Series 1
Treeyo reviews and updates guides periodically to reflect product changes and long term reliability.
Last reviewed: May 2026
Products considered: 8
Unsure what matters most? Read: Are Expensive Office Chairs Worth it? → A simple guide to what actually makes a difference.
For shorter users, the issue is usually seat depth and lumbar positioning. Many chairs force you to sit too far forward or leave your feet slightly unsupported, which becomes uncomfortable over time. The difference isn’t always obvious at first — it shows up after a few hours.
Simple way to think about it:
If you want the safest all-round choice → SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Office Chair
If you want something simple and proven → IKEA MARKUS
If you want more flexibility and adjustability → Steelcase Series 1
BEST OVERALL
SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Office Chair
A well-balanced chair that doesn’t dominate smaller setups
The frame is relatively compact, the mesh keeps things breathable, and the adjustable lumbar support makes it usable for longer sessions. It’s not the smallest chair available, but it strikes a strong balance between footprint and comfort.
Typical price £160 – £190
Price checked May 2026
BEST VALUE
IKEA MARKUS
A simple, proven chair with a relatively compact footprint
It doesn’t have many adjustments, but that’s part of the appeal — it’s easy to live with and doesn’t require constant tweaking. Works especially well in tighter spaces where you just want something reliable that doesn’t get in the way. It’s not the most adjustable option, but for many people it simply works.
Typical price £160
Price checked May 2026
BEST PREMIUM
Steelcase Series 1
A more refined option designed with smaller workspaces in mind
The overall footprint is tighter than most premium chairs, but it still offers proper ergonomic support and adjustability. If you’re working in a compact area and want something that feels properly engineered, this is a strong step up.
Typical price £400 – £600
Price checked May 2026
ALSO WORTH CONSIDERING
If you want a good alternative, this is a strong option.
Hbada P1 Ergonomic Office Chair
A compact, budget-friendly option with a lighter visual footprint. It’s easier to fit into smaller rooms and doesn’t feel bulky, though build quality isn’t on the same level as higher-end chairs. A good alternative if space is tight and budget matters.
View here →
Why these three?
For shorter users, the issue is usually seat depth and lumbar positioning. Many chairs force you to sit too far forward or leave your feet slightly unsupported, which becomes uncomfortable over time. The difference isn’t always obvious at first — it shows up after a few hours.
Simple way to think about it:
If you want the safest all-round choice → SIHOO M57 Ergonomic Office Chair
If you want something simple and proven → IKEA MARKUS
If you want more flexibility and adjustability → Steelcase Series 1
Buying advice
Don’t just look at the chair when it’s still.
Think about:
- how far it rolls back
- how wide the base is
- how much room the arms need
- A chair that fits your desk on paper can still feel too big once you start using it day to day.
FAQ
Are office chairs suitable for shorter people?
Not always — many are designed for average height. Look for adjustable seat height, shallower seat depth, and proper lumbar positioning.
Do I need armrests in a small space?
Not always. Fixed armrests can make tight setups harder to use.
What’s the most important feature here?
A compact base and good lumbar support matter more than extra adjustments.
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