The Herman Miller Embody is a premium, design-forward ergonomic chair focused on cutting-edge health benefits, while Steelcase offers research-driven, company-spanning chairs like the Gesture and Leap at a more accessible price point. The Embody is a high-tech design statement piece renowned for its unique spine-mimicking support, whereas Steelcase chairs prioritize versatile, durable performance for a wider range of office needs.
Let's compare these two leading brands to help you decide which chair is the right investment for your workspace.
Herman Miller Embody: The Peak of Ergonomic Design
Herman Miller is a luxury furniture brand synonymous with iconic, design-led office chairs like the Aeron and Eames Lounge Chair. The Embody represents the peak of their ergonomic research, co-designed with physicians and PhDs to create a chair that is good for both your body and your focus. It targets professionals, designers, and health-conscious users who view their office chair as a long-term wellness tool and are willing to invest in premium quality.
- Product mix: Known for their ergonomic office and lounge seating, Herman Miller also produces a full range of high-end office furniture, including desks, storage, and accessories.
- Style/vibe: The Embody has a distinctive, modern, and high-tech aesthetic. Its exposed exoskeleton-like spine makes it a sculptural statement piece that suits contemporary and minimalist interiors.
- Price point: Luxury/Premium. The Embody chair typically sells for between $1,600 and $1,800, depending on the configuration and fabric choices.
- Quality: Exceptional. The chair features a high-tech pixelated support system that conforms to your micro-movements, a durable graphite or aluminum frame, and upholstery designed for breathability and longevity, all backed by a 12-year warranty that covers parts and labor.
- Fit & Sizing: Engineered to fit nearly every body type without complicated adjustments. The Backfit™ adjustment allows you to tune the backrest to your spine's curve, while seat depth and arm adjustments accommodate a range of different shapes and sizes.
- Sustainability: Herman Miller is a leader in sustainable manufacturing. The Embody is made with 42% recycled materials and is 95% recyclable at the end of its life, holding certifications like Cradle to Cradle Certified® Silver.
The Herman Miller Embody is for individuals who see their chair as a critical long-term investment in health and design, prioritizing innovative support and aesthetics over budget.
Shop Herman Miller: hermanmiller.com
Steelcase: The Research-Driven Performer
Steelcase is a global leader in office furniture, renowned for creating "work-horse" products that are grounded in extensive research into how people work. Their chairs, particularly the Gesture and Leap, are engineered for durability, flexibility, and all-day comfort. A Steelcase office chair appeals to a wide variety of customers from Fortune 500 offices to home business owners needing reliable, high-performance seating that adapts to various tasks and technologies.
- Product mix: Steelcase offers a vast portfolio of office solutions, including task chairs, desks, collaborative furniture, storage, and technology-integrated products for any type of organization from small business to large corporations.
- Style/vibe: Steelcase designs are more versatile and utilitarian, yet still professional and modern. Their chairs are created to blend seamlessly into a wide range of corporate and home office environments rather than stand out as a furniture setpiece.
- Price point: Mid-range to high-end. Flagship chairs like the Gesture and Leap are typically priced between $900 and $1,200, offering premium ergonomics at a more moderate price than the Embody.
- Quality: Built for commercial use, Steelcase chairs are exceptionally durable thanks to the high-grade reinforced plastic and heavy-duty steel, plus high-density foam cushions made to last. The company backs its products with a manufacturer's warranty.
- Dimensions/Scale: Steelcase excels at adjustability. Their chairs are legendary for a wide range of motion with options to adjust the lumbar support, seat width, depth, and height – ensuring that their chairs are ideal for multi-user situations or for anyone who's unsure about which ergonomic settings will feel the most comfortable.
- Sustainability: Steelcase is committed to responsible sourcing. The Leap chair, for example, won the first-ever Cradle-to-Cradle certification and also has an Indoor Advantage BIFMA rating and SCS Global air-quality certification. Many Steelcase products contain recycled materials and are 94% recyclable.
Steelcase provides highly durable, flexible, and ergonomic furniture that excels in any professional work setting and offers high performance for its price.
Shop Steelcase: steelcase.com
Herman Miller Embody vs. Steelcase Comparison
Price Comparison
There is a clear difference in price between these two brands. The Herman Miller Embody is a luxury product and has a price tag that reflects its design and engineering, with prices ranging from $1,600 to $1,800. A true investment piece.
Steelcase, while more affordable, is still an investment when compared against the competition. Their offerings provide great value, with highly praised chairs priced between $900 and $1,200, maintaining a high standard of quality. If your goal is to find top-of-the-line ergonomics at half the price, Steelcase is a strong contender.
Style & Aesthetic
The Herman Miller Embody is an unmistakable statement piece showcasing intentional design. Its unique exposed "backbone" and modern lines look great in a corner office, any modern interior, or a CEO's home office.
Steelcase chairs are no less stylish, but they have a more classic utilitarian aesthetic that allows the chair to blend in without calling attention to itself. With fewer flourishes, Steelcase emphasizes functionality, making it a great choice for a range of businesses and workplaces.
Quality & Construction
Both brands produce high-quality chairs. The Herman Miller Embody features a unique pixelated support system that moves with you, along with its premium metal frames, backed by a 12-year warranty. Herman Miller has a reputation for quality and customization.
The Steelcase chair is built as a workhorse. It features double-reinforced plastic components and high-density foam cushions that stand up to years of daily use. The warranty and customer service also have great reviews, meaning that any piece you buy from Steelcase is made to last for years to come.
Fit and Sizing
Both chairs fit all types of shapes and sizes thanks to their advanced ergonomic features, but they excel in different ways. Herman Miller's Embody features a unique adjustment system that allows the user to dial in the perfect support for specific needs, making it a health product for those with back and spinal issues.
Steelcase chairs like the Gesture and Leap are known for their extreme adjustability. Their armrests have an impressive range of motion, creating the perfect chair for a variety of workspaces. These chairs are perfect for organizations that need a chair that multiple employees can use without much fuss.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your style preferences, budget, and priorities. Both brands offer exceptional quality furniture, but they cater to different tastes and needs.
Choose Herman Miller If:
- You want a visually striking statement piece that showcases innovation and craftsmanship.
- Your top priority is overall health and posture correction, and you value the chair's health benefits.
Choose Steelcase If:
- You need versatile, durable chairs for long workdays that will hold up to years of use.
- You're looking for top-tier ergonomics at a more moderate price.
- The chair will be used by multiple people and needs to be easily adjustable.
- You prefer a more classic functional design that blends into any office setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Steelcase chairs cheaper than Herman Miller?
Steelcase chairs typically cost less than Herman Miller chairs, making them a more practical choice for those who want premium ergonomics without the high prices of luxury items like the Embody.
Which has better quality furniture, Herman Miller or Steelcase?
Both brands are esteemed for their quality. Herman Miller is famous for its design-led offerings, while Steelcase is known for commercial-grade durability and everyday use. Your choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Is the Herman Miller Embody worth it?
The Embody is an excellent investment if you prioritize advanced ergonomics and are willing to pay for premium design. Its unique pixelated support system is engineered to precisely support the spine, making it suitable for professionals and those who suffer from back pain.
What makes Steelcase chairs different?
Steelcase chairs provide all-around satisfaction with their flexible designs, making them ideal for multi-user environments. Their extreme adjustability and support features suit a wide range of activities and office settings.
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