I can’t tell you how many drafting chairs I went through when working as an architect.

Actually I don’t really know…. but I ran into every issue with them.

They became uncomfortable, were too rigid, stopped adjusting properly, or outright broke!

So if I have one piece of advice when buying a drafting chair- get a good one!

Fortunately there seems to be quite a few quality options today.

So if you need to buy a drafting chair, here is my recommended list of the best options on the market.

Our Favorite Drafting Chair

Eurotech Seating Apollo Drafting Stool

The Apollo drafting stool is solidly built, incredibly comfortable, and highly adjustable.

It was designed for people who regularly alternate between sitting and standing and it pairs perfectly with a standing desk.

The Design

The stool has an amazing waterfall seat design that reduces pressure on your legs and provides added comfort with improved blood circulation.

The seat is 20.5’’ wide and comes with a breathable mesh upholstery that keeps your body cool while you work. It has a minimum height of 26.5’’ and a maximum height of 36.5’’.

Additionally, the Apollo drafting stool’s backrest is height-adjustable and the moving arms can be adjusted for width and height.

The company behind the product has been in business since 1979. They offer a lifetime warranty on the frame and hardware and a 5-year warranty on the upholstery.

What customers are saying

The overall feel customers have when purchasing the Apollo is that they’re getting real value for money.

The only downside some people mentioned is that the adjustable backrest has a tendency to slide down on its own.

What We Like

• It provides great value for the money
• It has a lifetime warranty

What We Don’t Like

• The backrest doesn’t stay in place

Second Best Drafting Chair

Modway Veer Drafting Stool-Chair

This ergonomic Modway Veer Drafting Stool-Chair features many of the needed uses for artists, architects and drafting professionals.

The design is simple and beautiful yet it features many customizable height adjustments and will allow you to best work effectively and efficiently in your workspace.

It comes in four unique colours that feature a soft cushion bottom and a mesh backing that provide good lumbar support and a soft enough seat for full-day use.

The easy-glide wheels and chrome footplate make moving from one workspace to the next a breeze on any surface. You can also take advantage of the adjustable seat height to ensure being in the perfect drafting position.

What we like

• Easy-glide wheels roll on virtually any surface with ease

• Waterfall mesh back design fits ergonomic needs and is comfortable

• Adjustable arm and seat height make working simple

• Choose from four colours to suit your office and workspace easily

What we don’t like:

• Durability and build quality could be better for heavier users

• May not be suitable for those over 6 feet

The Modway Veer Drafting Stool-Chair is a chair you will definitely want to keep on your radar for work and ergonomic drafting

Highest Quality Chair

Harwick Evolve All Mesh Heavy Duty Drafting Chair

The Harwick Evolve is perhaps the best choice if you work in a very professional setting and are looking for the best quality.

The very strong and rigid design is built for any individual to sit comfortably for long hours perched on their desk.

Adjustability

The heavy-duty design features a weight allotment of 325 pounds and an adjustable seat and armrests that will allow for even the tallest individuals.

The armrests even feature a flip-up design so that the chair can be tucked into the desk for perched work.

Bottom line: It is perfect for those looking for a high quality, comfortable, elegantly designed chair.

Most Comfortable Chair

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If you’re working long hours at the office and need the absolute best in terms of comfort, quality, and design, check out the Alvin Art Director drafting chair.

With a 20’’ wide seat with a 3’’ thick cushion, this model is definitely the most comfortable on our list. Its height can be adjusted from 24.5’’ to 28.5’’ with the help of an extension seat.

The extension seat exists because although this chair was originally built for a regular desk, the manufacturers wanted those with standing desks to also enjoy the comfort the chair provides.

The backrest is also height adjustable and can be lifted up to 20’’ above the seat.

This model is stationary and doesn’t tilt backward but its upholstery and arms were made out of Buffalo leather to give it an amazing high-end look with increased comfort.

What We Like

• Great looking office chair
• Very comfortable
• Genuine leather upholstery

What We Don’t Like

• The chair doesn’t tilt

Most Adjustable Chair

Flash Furniture Drafting Chair

If you’re looking for a comfortable drafting chair that will support you during long stints of work, Flash Furniture has the perfect chair for you.

Just like the Apollo chair, this one offers all sorts of adjustable components with a breathable mesh to sit on.

The height of the seat can be adjusted from 24’’ to 32’’ and the seat can be tilted backward for added comfort.

There’s a lever on the left side that you can pull up for free movement and push down to lock the chair in place. The base is made of heavy-duty nylon which is a hard plastic that feels very sturdy.

The foot ring is adjustable as well and the arms can be flipped out of the way, however, unlike the Apollo chair, the arms are not height adjustable.

Assembling this chair is pretty straightforward but the instructions might need some improvement as most customers end up placing the seat the wrong way.

What We Like

• Supportive seat and backrest
• Breathable mesh upholstery
• Smooth controls

What We Don’t Like

• Poor assembly instructions

Ideal Chair For Standing Desks

Modway Ergonomic Charge Drafting Chair

If you’re looking for a drafting chair that offers increased comfort, the Modway Charge model comes with a generously padded foam seat.

The seat adjusts well to the height of a standing desk and can be raised from 22’’ to 29.5’’ off the ground. It can also be tilted or swiveled a full 360 degrees by pulling the lever out.

The Charge chair was made with ergonomics in mind and offers improved lumbar support that should keep you comfy all day.

It pairs perfectly with a standing desk, and although the arms can’t be adjusted for height, they can be flipped up to an angle of 90 degrees and they have a padded vinyl that provides added comfort.

This chair is easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

What We Like

• Perfect for standing desks
• Excellent lumbar support
• Clear assembly instructions

What We Don’t Like

• The arms are not height adjustable

Best For Reception Desk

Modway Edge Reception Desk Drafting Chair

This model is extremely similar to the Charge model in terms of ergonomics and comfort with the biggest difference being its shorter backrest.

This one was made specifically for the people that work at counters and tend to stand most of the time but still want something comfortable enough to fall back on when needed.

The padded vinyl seat is incredibly comfortable and can be tilted or swiveled to 360 degrees, it is also height adjustable and can go from 20.5’’ and 29’ high.

You get to control the tension of the chair so you’ll be able to lean back if you choose to and the backrest will do a good job of providing lumbar support for your back.

The arms of the Edge chair are padded and can be flipped back for your convenience. The only downside we could find is the seat cushion that tends to go flat after 6 to 12 months of use.

What We Like

• Very comfortable
• Easy assembly

What We Don’t Like

• The seat cushion doesn’t last long

Best Value Drafting Chair

Best Office Tall Office Drafting Chair

The Best Office Tall Office drafting chair definitely has room for improvement in regards to durability and customer service, but it still provides great value for its price.

This chair includes features similar to other products on our list such as a nice thick cushion, flip-up armrests, lumbar support, and an adjustable seat height that can go from 22’’ to  29.5’’.

However, unlike the others, this model comes with only 3 months of warranty and some people have reported a loss of functionality on the gas cylinder which happens 3-6 months into the purchase.

The chair may not be as good as others on the list but it would work for people on a budget, and if the manufacturers added some functional customer care support there would be many more happy customers.

What We Like

• Budget price
• Great lumbar support

What We Don’t Like

• Won’t last a long time
• Customer service issues

Other Recommended Drafting Chairs

HON Leather Volt Task Stool

Simple, comfortable and relatively inexpensive, the HON Leather Volt Task Stool features a design that is made to last.

The leather design adds a home-comfort feeling while the adjustable sit-to-stand design and an array of colours will help to brighten and fit into your workspace perfectly.

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The SmugDesk office chair is extremely well built and is often considered to be a workhorse of a chair.

It has a comfortable padded seat with an adjustable height range of 25.2’’ to 33.9’’. It also has a foot ring and armrests that can be adjusted for height.

Just like most of the chairs on our list this one also comes with great lumbar support which is much needed for long working hours.

This model comes with a 12-month warranty and the only complaint reported is the seat is short and might be a problem for people with longer legs.

Kaleurrier Adjustable Stools Drafting Chair

The Kaleurrier drafting chair is a lightweight everyday model that comes with a sponge padded seat and faux leather upholstery.

It is easy to clean and would be suitable for spa’s, salons, schools, or therapist offices.

The seat can be raised from 19.7’’ to 27.6’’ which would not be ideal for a standing desk, but most of the other purposes are pretty much covered.

The major difference between this model and the rest on our list is the lack of armrests and a backrest that can be tilted so you can lounge.

Poly and Bark Tremaine Drafting Chair

This chair looks and feels luxurious. It is made from vegan leather which is softer to touch than faux leather or vinyl and everything on it has padding, including the seat, backrest, and arms.

The backrest is slightly curved in the lumbar region to give you extra support and most people say this little feature is a life-saver.

The seat can be raised from 22.5’’ up to 30’’ and you’ll also be able to adjust the tension of the chair so you can lean back a bit.

This chair has a truly upscale design and most customers are extremely happy with their purchase.

Modway Thrive Drafting Chair

The Modway Thrive model is perfect for people that want a modern looking chair.

Part of the backrest is omitted in the design so it looks like it’s free-floating and the armrests are made a bit different from other models as well.

Some people like the unique armrests and say that they don’t get in the way, while others say they lack proper support.

The seat can be lifted from 20.5’’ to 28’’ and is 18’’ wide which is the most popular width for the majority of adults.

Modway Attainment Drafting Chair

If you are looking for a comfortable and dependable ergonomic drafting chair the Modway Attainment Chair needs to be seriously considered.

This design features a leather cushion and a mesh backing for a great combination of comfort and ergonomic design.

Perfectly matched with your standing desk. Adjustments can be made to the height, armrests and the foot ring has a strong and sturdy design that helps you to feel comfortable all day long.

AmazonBasics Drafting Stool

Looking for a very different yet simple design?

The AmazonBasics Stool is perhaps the most basic design on our list today. It features a very simple round leather design that is adjustable to most desks.

You can use this chair to draft, bring it to the kitchen to cook, and you can also use this as a chair to play music in.

Although the lack of armrests and back support could be strange for some the minimal design could be the best option for those that are always standing up and just need a comfortable seat for limited use.

AmazonBasics Drafting Stool with Adjustable Foot Rest

Those who are keen on a simple design but still want the functionality of traditional chairs can find the best of both in the AmazonBasics chair.

This chair comes with a compact design, round chair, and minimal back design while the footrest acts as a perfect addition to your workspace to allow for manoeuvrability.

Office Star Deluxe Mesh Back Drafting Chair

This chair features many of the traditional benefits of a complete drafting chair like adjustable height options and a lean-over design but takes a minimal approach.

It comes with no armrests and a shorter mesh backing to provide easier working with less bumping into the table on drafting work.

The chair also features a powerful pneumatic seat adjustment that is perfect for the average person and a taller individual.

Comfortable ring design around the mid-base provides an easy way to rest your feet and perch yourself over the desk for extended hours of work.

Some buyers even report that this chair is perfect for kitchen use, as the ergonomic drafting design allows for a high perch over the countertop for cutting and cooking while seated.

What we like

• Lack of arms provide a sense of freedom in drafting work

• The strong and durable design feels like it will last

• Can be paired perfectly with a standing desk

• Breathable and durable back support features great lumbar support

What we don’t like

• Some buyers warn of a difficult to assemble the product

• Shorter seat and back support may favour a smaller individual

Who Needs A Drafting Chair?

A drafting chair is unique to the buyer and their workspace. This may have you thinking, “do I need an ergonomic drafting chair?” These chairs are specifically designed to help the user perch up over the desk and allow for a more concentrated workspace.

The right design will help you to feel more comfortable and happy, working for longer hours and more efficient workspaces.

Drafting Chairs & Standing Desks

Should you use a drafting chair for a standing desk?

As soon as standing desks were brought to the market it was clear that drafting chairs would be sought after.

Getting a drafting chair for your standing desk makes perfect sense, since you are able to adjust both heights to give you the best ergonomic experience.

Compared to standard office chairs that are usually 20’’ tall the drafting chair can be adjusted to over 30’’ in height to match the height of the standing desk.

Since you are sitting higher, expect a foot ring to accompany the drafting chair so your feet can comfortably lean on something, which is also good for ergonomics.

Features To Consider

When you choose the right drafting chair you will reap its ergonomic benefits on a daily basis and have a much more pleasant experience at your workplace.

However, in order to choose the right one, you’ll need to fully understand the concept behind the drafting chairs.

Unlike regular office chairs that have a deeper seat, drafting chairs have a shallower seat and place your spine in a perching position.

This follows the S-shaped spine alignment and improves your posture. The foot ring also plays a big role in improving posture as it allows you to maintain your ergonomic position while sitting.

Let’s take look at the most important features to consider when you’re purchasing a drafting chair.

Seat Height

If you already have a tall desk, or you’re considering getting one with your drafting table, make sure you get the correct seat height to match it.

The rule of thumb here is simple:

Measure your desk height at the tallest point, and then minus 8-12 inches to get to the recommended height range of your chair.

For example, if your desk is 40’’ tall, you’ll need a 28’’ to 32’’ height range on your drafting chair.

Seat Width

The correct seat width is very important for the comfort of the user. Drafting chairs usually have a 20’’ seat width which is standard for most adults.

Adjustability

Most customers truly value the ability to customize their drafting chair experience, this is why adjustability is an extremely important feature, different chairs serve different purposes.

Some have armrests that flip up, others will have a tilted seat, some will have both. The best adjustability features for you will depend on what you need and what you find comfortable.

The most important thing is that you live daily with ergonomics in mind, knowing you are doing something good for your body.

Foot Rest

The footrest is a crucial part of the drafting chair since it keeps your feet from dangling and pulling on your nerves.

The footrest is usually ring-shaped and does a good job of allowing you to rest your feet while you work.

Material

Most people that tried the mesh upholstery say they like it because it doesn’t make them sweat.

The Vinyl upholstery was made for laboratories, schools, or places where you need a fast and effective way to keep everything sparkly clean.

Leather upholstery is also available, and some people seem to appreciate it more. It doesn’t do anything extra for your body, but some say it looks the most professional in an office.