The Secretlab chairs are a popular option for many people given their mid-tier pricing. However, for a higher price point, professional-quality Herman Miller continues to stand out as one of the best you can buy, with most of their popular models starting from an eye-watering $1,300.
Here's everything you need to know about how Secretlab chairs compare against top Herman Miller models to choose the right one for your home office or gaming space.
Read more: Herman Miller Aeron vs. Embody: Which chair is the best?
Secretlab TITAN Evo 2022 Series
The Secretlab TITAN Evo series chair is one that many gamers and remote workers will find fitting because of the sheer size, customization options, and relative cost of the unit compared to higher-end models from other brands.
- What it is: One of the world's most recognizable gaming chairs, offering a mix of ergonomic features like robust 4D armrests, a magnetic head cushion, and firm lumbar support. It is primarily designed for style and comfort and appeals to a non-professional audience.
- Key features: Secretlab TITAN Evo is adjustable where you need it with an ultra-petta friendly fabric line, 3 chair sizes (Small, Regular, and XL), built-in 4-way internal lumbar support, full recline and tilt support, and armrests that are adjustable every which way you could possibly imagine.
- Price: Starts from $549 for the base hybrid leatherette model and $569 for the SoftWeave fabric line.
- Style: The chair style leans towards an aggressive gamer aesthetic, through dark leather designs and contrasting colors. Still, they blend well into existing home-themed decors with options for 'cookies-and-cream' white and plain black versions.
- Materials/Construction: The chair weighs around 76 pounds. It is constructed from a mixture of aluminum, nylon, foam, and metal components.
- Pros: A well-built, good-looking product that strikes a solid price consideration point without having to break the bank. You get more colors to choose from, and it looks incredibly stylish - something other ergonomic work chairs can’t usually deliver.
- Cons: A bit heavy if you like to rearrange your setup constantly. It could offer a better warranty as it's capped at 5 years, and the chair cushion wears down quite a bit over long-term use if used daily (I’ve been using one since early 2020).
The Secretlab TITAN series of chairs can easily fit into any office or decor and will appeal to gamers and creators who are likely not to spend their full eight-hour shifts glued to their monitors.
Shop this chair: secretlab.co/collections/titan-evo-2022-series
Herman Miller Aeron Chair
Recognized globally, the Herman Miller Aeron embodies two decades of design innovation, offering unparalleled comfort and support. Its breathable Pellicle mesh and PostureFit SL sacral/lumbar support make it a top choice for demanding professional environments.
- What it is: A best-in-class professional work chair used worldwide in countless businesses to provide its workforce a best-in-class design and ergonomic support.
- Key features: There aren't many bells and whistles with the Aeron, but it excels in breathability with Pellicle mesh fabric, an array of sizes to adjust for different weights and heights, and the patented PostureFit SL technology that cradles both your lumbar region and spine - providing the ultimate seating comfort.
- Price: You're shelling out a small fortune, starting at a whopping $1,320.
- Style: A signature and timeless design that offers a slim and sleek silhouette, unlike your standard work chairs that are usually big and clunky. It only ships in neutral colors to adapt to business environments.
- Materials/Construction: The chair is 91% recyclable, and its parts are sourced from renewable energy. Additionally, the Pellicle mesh on the Onyx color edition is made with recycled plastic, so it supports your back and the earth at the same time. Other materials used are cast aluminum and glass-filled nylon, and it weighs an average of 41 pounds.
- Pros: Built to last, and its iconic industry design makes for an elegant-looking addition to any workplace seeking a best-in-class seating solution.
- Cons: The cost is quite the sticker shock for personal or home use.
The Aeron chair by Herman Miller is perfect for workplaces aiming to provide their workers a top-notch product with little to complain about, thanks to its minimal yet clever design.
Shop other chairs from Herman Miller: hermanmiller.com/products/seating/office-chairs
Secretlab vs. Herman Miller Comparison
Dimensions & Fit
Both Secretlab and Herman Miller offer a range of sizes to cater to different body types. Secretlab's TITAN Evo series comes in Small, Regular, and XL, suitable for users from under 5'6" to 6'9" and supporting up to 395 lbs.
Herman Miller's Aeron chair, on the other hand, comes in three meticulously researched sizes: A (small), B (medium), and C (large) to fit shorter, taller, and more robust users. This approach ensures a precise, ergonomic fit based on height and weight.
Individuals who enjoy more room in their seat should find comfort in the larger Aeron 'C' or the Secretlab XL variation.
We recommend measuring and reading their fit guides before deciding, though Secretlab offers more wriggle room with its large flat seating pan rather than the constrained space in Herman Miller's various model lines.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Herman Miller chairs are globally recognized as the gold standard in office seating due to their research-driven ergonomics aimed at promoting healthy posture and long-term use.
Its patented PostureFit SL system targets the lumbar and sacral regions to support the natural S-shape of the spine, significantly reducing fatigue. Combined with the breathable Pellicle mesh that distributes weight and minimizes pressure points, the Aeron chair excels in comfort for users who sit for hours.
Conversely, the Secretlab chair is aimed at a mid-tier market, offering a stylish yet comfortable experience. The firm cold-cure padding is designed for support, but heavier users may find it less comfortable over time. However, features like the four-way LumbaX system and a magnetic head pillow allow for customized comfort.
Materials & Construction
The differences in material and craftsmanship are apparent immediately.
Herman Miller Products Last Longer
The Aeron will outlast even the best offerings from Secretlab. A 12-year manufacturer warranty should be enough reason to trust Herman Miller's commitment to quality. In comparison, Secretlab offers a 5-year warranty on chairs made of metal alloys and aluminum. Some users experience a mix of quality control issues like loose screws and damaged armrests. These points detract from value over time when used regularly, so wear and tear is likely to chip off its original shine faster than pricier options.
Price & Value
A Secretlab chair won't burn through a whole year's savings, making it a good option if budget is a key consideration. Depending on the model, a base version can be purchased for around $550.
You can expect to pay anywhere from ~$1,320 to $1,800 or more for a brand-new Herman Miller chair. While the used market is quite hot and can save you money, lack of a warranty for replacing worn parts could become a long-term issue.
Herman Miller's cost disparity does come with better-lasting quality, supported by a comprehensive 12-year warranty that promises durability. Compared to Secretlab chairs, they are intended for more rugged daily use, which includes the need to replace components like casters and seating surfaces more frequently.
Style & Versatility
Secretlab embraces a modern, racing-inspired aesthetic that looks slick for streams or work meetings. Herman Miller offers a sleek, minimalist design, embodying classic minimalism without flair. The chair's versatile style makes it a suitable addition for any workplace seeking sophisticated seating options.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both brands have dedicated fans, and the choice ultimately boils down to what matters most to you.
Choose the Secretlab Titan Series if:
- You are on a budget, looking to spend around half a thousand dollars for your home office use.
- You prioritize aesthetics, especially for live streaming setups.
- The available themes and colors suit your style better, with options like Star Wars and DC skins.
- The ability to order and have it shipped directly to your house makes the purchasing process seamless.
Choose Herman Miller if:
- Your work requires sitting for extended periods and ergonomics is a top priority.
- You prefer a classic professional decor/setting.
- You value a longer warranty period (12 years).
- You don't mind paying a premium for a high-quality office chair that represents an investment.
- You appreciate its high resale value due to demand, even for used models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary differences between Secretlab and Herman Miller chairs?
Both models target different market segments using distinct approaches, although they use similar materials. Secretlab aims at budget-minded, style-oriented gamers, whereas Herman Miller chairs are pricier and preferred by many Fortune 50 companies and offices worldwide.
Which one is more durable over the long term?
A typical Herman Miller chair will last over 10 years if well cared for. Secretlab chairs have a warranty of up to 5 years, which is competitive given they predominantly use faux leather that begins to wear around this timeframe.
Which is more ergonomic and offers better comfort?
Herman Miller is the clear choice for ergonomics and comfort. Most users who have tried both prefer the Aeron model for its superior back and seating support during long work periods.
Can a tall person fit comfortably?
Herman Miller offers larger sizes that support up to 345 lbs and heights up to 6'8", with the option C variant. The Secretlab Titan XXXL supports weights up to 395 lbs, making it a versatile option for taller users.
Conclusion
The Aeron stands as our top ergonomic pick, providing excellent comfort and professional design for anyone working hybrid at home. For those seeking style, the Secretlab Titan is a great gaming chair with unique features like a magnetic head pillow. Keep in mind the price gap when considering your needs and budget, but both chairs serve specific purposes and can be a great addition to different environments.
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