The Herman Miller Embody and Steelcase Gesture are two of the best ergonomic chairs you can buy, but they are built on different philosophies. The Embody is designed for long-term spinal health, using a pixelated back to promote healthy posture and circulation, while the Gesture focuses on maximum adaptability to support the wide range of postures people adopt when using modern technology.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which top-tier chair is right for your workspace.
Herman Miller Embody
From the iconic brand Herman Miller, the Embody chair is engineered as a proactive health solution. Its signature feature is a "pixelated" back and seat surface that dynamically conforms to your body’s unique shape and micro-movements, ensuring pressure is distributed evenly and encouraging blood flow for focused, comfortable work over many hours.
- What it is: A premium, health-positive ergonomic chair designed for long-term comfort and spinal support.
- Key features: Pixelated Support™ technology, Backfit™ adjustment that mimics the spine's natural curve, and a narrow backrest that allows full arm and shoulder mobility.
- Price: Typically around $1,500 - $1,800 depending on the finishes.
- Style: Futuristic and organic, with a distinctive spinal design and a sleek, modern silhouette.
- Materials/Construction: Features a high-quality aluminum base and frame with breathable, durable Sync fabric made from 100% polyester.
- Pros: Excellent for spinal health and reducing back pain. The Pixelated Support provides unmatched pressure distribution. Encourages movement and improves circulation during long sitting sessions. Highly durable with a 12-year warranty.
- Cons: A significant investment compared to standard office chairs. Armrests are adjustable but less versatile than the Gesture's. Does not have a built-in or optional headrest from the manufacturer.
The Embody is ideal for professionals who sit for extended periods and want an ergonomic chair that actively benefits their health and posture.
Shop this product: hermanmiller.com/products/seating/office-chairs/embody-chairs/
Steelcase Gesture
The Steelcase Gesture was created after studying over 2,000 people and their behavior with modern technology. It’s built to support the diverse postures we use with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, making it arguably the most adjustable chair on the market. Its hallmark features are the 360-degree rotating armrests that move just like a human arm.
- What it is: A highly adaptable ergonomic chair designed to support the widest possible range of user postures and tasks.
- Key features: Uniquely adjustable 360-armrests, 3D LiveBack™ that automatically mimics the natural movement of the spine, and highly intuitive slide and lever adjustments.
- Price: Around $1,200 - $1,500 depending on configuration.
- Style: Contemporary and functional, with an angular dynamism that highlights its adjustability.
- Materials/Construction: Built with a combination of durable plastic, a robust steel frame, and high-performance, customizable fabrics. An optional headrest is available.
- Pros: Unparalleled armrest adjustability supports any task, from typing to texting to gaming. Highly intuitive and easy to adjust. Provides excellent support in a wide variety of postures, including reclining.
- Cons: Lacks the targeted spinal health focus of the Embody. The back support is highly flexible but less specialized than the Embody's Pixelated Support. Its aesthetic is more functional than futuristic.
The Gesture is the perfect fit for dynamic workers who switch between multiple devices and value total control over their chair’s posture and position.
Shop this product: steelcase.com/products/office-chairs/gesture/
Herman Miller Embody vs. Steelcase Gesture Comparison
Ergonomics & Adjustability
This is where the chairs diverge the most. The Herman Miller Embody focuses on passive ergonomics, its Pixelated Support system automatically reacts to your slightest movements to maintain posture and reduce pressure points without constant user input. It’s designed to keep you in an optimal, healthy seated position.
In contrast, the Steelcase Gesture is all about active ergonomics and user control. Its main selling point is its incredible range of motion, particularly the 3D armrests, which pivot 360 degrees to support your arms no matter what device you're using or how you’re sitting. While the Embody encourages a specific way of sitting, the Gesture adapts to support you in almost any way you choose to sit.
Materials & Construction
Both chairs are symbols of quality craftsmanship and are backed by comprehensive 12-year warranties that cover virtually everything. Herman Miller and Steelcase are industry leaders, and their chairs are built to withstand decades of daily use. The Embody is well-regarded for its breathable fabric and unique, flexible back skeleton, while the Gesture is praised for its incredibly robust adjustment mechanisms that don't loosen over time.
Price & Value
Neither chair is budget-friendly, they are long-term investments in your health and productivity. The Embody is often priced slightly higher, reflecting its specialized design and positioning as a premium health product. Its value is in its proactive approach to preventing back pain and improving sitting posture.
The Gesture offers immense value through its versatility. If you work in a dynamic role, frequently use a phone or tablet, or enjoy reclining to think, the Gesture’s ability to flawlessly support every posture makes it an excellent investment. For many, its unparalleled adaptability justifies the cost.
Style & Versatility
Aesthetically, the chairs cater to different tastes. The Embody, with its visible spinal column and pixelated pattern, has an unmistakable futuristic, bio-inspired look. It makes a statement about design and wellness. It integrates well into modern, minimalist, or tech-forward office spaces.
The Gesture’s design is more understated and contemporary. Its form is directly tied to its function, particularly the sweeping arc of the armrests. With a wider range of standard fabric colors and the option for a headrest, the Gesture is arguably more versatile for matching different office decors, appearing both professional and approachable.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Embody and Gesture are leaders in ergonomic seating, but they serve two distinct types of users.
Choose the Herman Miller Embody if:
- Your top priority is long-term spinal health and posture support.
- You sit for more than 8 hours a day, mostly focused on computer work.
- You want a chair that encourages micro-movements to improve circulation.
- You love a futuristic, innovative design that stands out.
Choose the Steelcase Gesture if:
- You need maximum adjustability to support a wide range of tasks and devices.
- Your arm and shoulder comfort is a major concern.
- You frequently switch between typing, using a tablet, texting, and relaxing.
- You want a chair with intuitive and easy-to-use controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Embody and the Gesture?
The main difference is their ergonomic philosophy. The Embody is focused on promoting a healthy, ideal posture with its dynamic Pixelated Support system. The Gesture is designed for unparalleled adaptability, with 360-degree armrests that support any user’s sitting position or task.
Which ergonomic chair is better for back pain?
Both are excellent for back pain, but they help in different ways. The Embody is often recommended for posture-related pain, as it guides your spine into a healthy alignment. The Gesture can be better if you need to frequently change positions to alleviate pain, since it supports a wider range of sitting styles.
Which armrests are better: Embody or Gesture?
The Gesture's armrests are widely considered the best and most adjustable on the market. Their 360-degree rotation is unmatched and provides support whether you're typing, gaming on a console, or using a smartphone. The Embody's armrests are adjustable in height and width but not nearly as flexible.
Can I add a headrest to either chair?
Steelcase offers a model of the Gesture with a highly-rated, fully-adjustable headrest. Herman Miller does not produce a headrest for the Embody, but some reputable third-party options are available if a headrest is essential for you.
Which chair is better for gaming?
Many gamers prefer the Gesture due to its armrests, which can be configured to perfectly support using a controller or a mouse and keyboard. However, the Herman Miller x Logitech G Embody is a version of the Embody specifically marketed to gamers, featuring extra foam for comfort.
How long do these chairs last?
Both chairs are extremely durable and built for corporate environments where they are used 24/7. Both Herman Miller and Steelcase provide a 12-year warranty, and the chairs are expected to last much longer with proper care.
Is the Herman Miller Embody really worth over $1,500?
For individuals who sit for most of their workday, the Embody is often considered a worthwhile investment in personal health. Its ability to reduce back pain, improve posture, and enhance focus can pay for itself in productivity and well-being over its long lifespan.
Is the Steelcase Gesture breathable?
The Gesture comes in a variety of fabric options. The standard fabrics are reasonably breathable for typical daily use. However, the Embody's Sync fabric and pixelated back design generally allow for better airflow, which can be a factor if you tend to run hot.
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