The Herman Miller Aeron chair comes in two main sizes for adults, Size B and Size C, with the core difference being their fit and dimensions. Size B is the standard model, designed to comfortably fit the widest range of body types, while Size C is specifically built with a wider and deeper seat for taller or larger individuals.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you choose the right ergonomic chair from Herman Miller for your body and workspace.
Herman Miller Aeron Chair - Size B
The Aeron Size B is the quintessential ergonomic chair, considered the industry standard and by far the most popular size sold. It is masterfully engineered to provide optimal support and comfort for the majority of adult users, fitting a broad spectrum of heights and weights without excess bulk.
- What it is: The standard-sized model of the iconic Aeron ergonomic office chair.
- Suited For: Users with a height between 5'2" and 6'2" and a weight ranging from 130 to 325 pounds. It is Herman Miller's best-selling size.
- Price: Around $1,200 to $1,400 depending on the specific configuration and retailer.
- Materials/Construction: Features Herman Miller’s signature Pellicle mesh for breathability and even pressure distribution, a durable aluminum frame, and high-quality components backed by a 12-year warranty.
- Ergonomics: Offers top-tier adjustability, including options for PostureFit SL back support, fully adjustable arms, and a tilt limiter to encourage healthy movement.
- Pros: A perfect ergonomic fit for the vast majority of users, iconic and recognizable design, holds its value extremely well, industry-leading 12-year warranty, and widely available.
- Cons: A significant investment, the mesh seat can take some getting used to for those accustomed to foam cushions, and can feel restrictive for taller or heavier individuals.
Users of average height and build will find the Size B provides precisely the right amount of support without feeling constrained or overwhelmed.
Shop this product: hermanmiller.com/products/seating/office-chairs/aeron-chairs/
Herman Miller Aeron Chair - Size C
The Aeron Size C chair is the largest option in the lineup, designed to provide the same exceptional ergonomic support for people with larger and taller frames. It features a noticeably wider and deeper seat, a taller backrest, and is constructed to support higher weight capacities, ensuring everyone can experience the benefits of an Aeron.
- What it is: The largest and most accommodating size of the Herman Miller Aeron ergonomic chair.
- Suited For: Best for users taller than 6'2" or those who weigh over 250 pounds and need a more generous seat profile.
- Price: Ranges from approximately $1,300 to $1,500, a slight premium over the Size B reflecting its larger build.
- Materials/Construction: Built with the same high-quality Pellicle mesh, sturdy aluminum frame, and reliable components as the Size B, and is also covered by a comprehensive 12-year warranty.
- Ergonomics: Provides all the same advanced ergonomic features, such as adjustable lumbar support and tilt mechanisms, scaled up to support a larger frame effectively.
- Pros: Offers a comfortable and unrestrictive fit for taller and heavier users, provides excellent support praised by big and tall communities, same class-leading build quality and warranty.
- Cons: Can feel too large for average-sized users (the seat depth may hit the back of their knees), takes up a slightly larger footprint in an office, and costs a bit more.
This size is a necessary option for those who find standard-sized office chairs too narrow, too short, or simply unsupportive of their frame.
Shop this product: hermanmiller.com/products/seating/office-chairs/aeron-chairs/
Aeron B vs. Aeron C Comparison
Dimensions & Fit
This is the most critical point of comparison. The choice between a Size B and Size C Aeron comes down almost entirely to body measurements. Herman Miller has a detailed sizing chart, but the general guide is that Size B fits the 5th to 95th percentile human. This wide range makes it the go-to for most.
Size C is built for the top end of that scale and beyond. Its seat is roughly 1.5 inches wider and 1 inch deeper than the Size B. This extra space prevents the hard frame from pressing into the sides of the thighs for larger users and allows taller users to sit back properly without the front edge of the seat cutting off circulation behind the knee.
Comfort & Ergonomics
While both chairs offer the same suite of world-class ergonomic features, the comfort you experience is entirely dependent on getting the right size. An average-sized person sitting in a Size C will find it uncomfortable because the greater seat depth prevents them from sitting with their back fully against the lumbar support while keeping their feet on the floor. Their knees won't reach the "waterfall" edge of the seat, causing pressure under the thighs.
Conversely, a tall or large person in a Size B will feel squeezed. The frame will dig into their thighs, and the seat depth will be too shallow, leaving a large portion of their upper leg unsupported. True ergonomic comfort from an Aeron can only be achieved by selecting the size that correctly matches your body.
Materials & Construction
There is absolutely no difference in quality, materials, or manufacturing between the Size B and Size C Aeron chairs. Both are made with the same patented Pellicle 8Z Pellicle suspension material, the same robust frame constructed from die-cast aluminum, and the same precision-engineered mechanisms for tilting and height adjustment. Both are backed by Herman Miller's industry-leading 12-year warranty, which covers all parts and labor.
Price & Value
The Aeron Size C typically costs about $100 more than the Size B due to the larger amount of material used in its construction. While any savings are good, this small price difference should never be the deciding factor. The real value in a Herman Miller Aeron is its long-term ergonomic benefits. Choosing the wrong size to save $100 will completely negate the high-value investment, as an ill-fitting chair can cause discomfort and is unlikely to be used.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both models are outstanding chairs built to last for decades, but getting the right fit is everything. The choice has less to do with preference and more to do with your height and weight.
Choose the Aeron Size B if:
- Your height falls within the 5'2" to 6'2" range.
- You have an average to athletic build that doesn't feel cramped in standard office chairs.
- You want the industry-standard ergonomic chair that will maintain excellent resale value.
- You are buying for an office and need a versatile chair that fits the majority of employees.
Choose the Aeron Size C if:
- You are taller than 6'2" and need a chair with more back height and seat depth.
- You have a broader frame or weigh over 250 pounds and need a wider seat.
- You consistently find that standard office chairs feel too narrow or shallow.
- You want more generous proportions for a spacious, less restrictive feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Aeron B and C?
The main - and most important - difference is size. The Size C has a wider and deeper seat, a taller back, and is engineered to support larger, taller frames than the Size B, which is considered the standard size for average users.
How do I know which Aeron size is right for me?
Herman Miller provides an official sizing chart based on weight and height. As a general rule, Size B is designed for the vast majority of people. If you are noticeably tall (over 6'2") or large, or if you consistently find standard chairs too small, Size C is likely your best option. When in doubt, it is highly recommended to sit in both at an authorized dealer.
Is the build quality different between the sizes?
No, the build quality, materials used, and manufacturing standards are identical. Both the Aeron Size B and Size C come with the same 12-year Herman Miller warranty.
Can a short or average-sized person use a Size C chair?
It's not recommended. If the seat is too deep, you won't be able to sit with your back fully against the backrest while keeping your knees properly bent at a 90-degree angle. This can lead to poor posture and discomfort under your legs.
Why is the larger Size C more expensive?
The slightly higher price of the Size C is due to the additional material required to create its larger frame, seat, and backrest components.
Will a Size C look too big in a home office?
While the footprint is only marginally larger, the Size C is visually more substantial than its Size B counterpart. In a particularly small room, its larger scale might feel more imposing, but its sleek design helps it blend well into most modern interiors.
Can a tall person get away with using a Size B?
Someone on the cusp of the sizing chart (around 6'2" or 6'3") might manage in a Size B, but it would likely feel too shallow in the seat for optimal comfort during long work sessions. A proper fit is key to unlocking the chair's ergonomic benefits.
What if I fall right between the sizing recommendations?
If your height puts you in one size but your weight puts you in another, prioritize height/seat depth. However, the best possible solution is to find a local retailer to test both chairs. Personal anatomy (like leg length to torso ratio) can make a big difference.
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