If you’re in the market for a new office chair, two of the most popular options are the Humanscale Freedom Chair and the Herman Miller Embody. Both chairs have their own unique features and benefits, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll pit the Humanscale Freedom Chair against the Herman Miller Embody in a battle to see which one comes out on top.
Compare the armrest: Freedom vs Embody
The first thing you’ll notice about the Humanscale Freedom Chair is that it doesn’t have any traditional armrests. Instead, it has what Humanscale calls “wing-like” armrests that are designed to provide support without getting in the way.
The Herman Miller Embody, on the other hand, has adjustable armrests that can be moved up and down, forward and back, and in and out. This gives you a lot of flexibility in how you position your arms while you’re sitting, which can be helpful if you have a specific way of working at your desk.
When it comes to overall comfort, the Humanscale Freedom Chair is the clear winner. Its innovative design eliminates pressure points and provides excellent lumbar support, which is something that the Herman Miller Embody lacks.
Compare the adjustability
The Herman Miller Embody does have one advantage over the Humanscale Freedom Chair, and that’s its adjustability. The Embody can be customized to fit your specific body type, which means you’re less likely to experience discomfort even after sitting in it for long periods of time.
For taller people like 6′ or more, they will love the chair from Herman Miller. It has a higher backrest that will support the head and neck well. The lumbar support is also adjustable to allow for a greater range of motion. The arms can be moved up and down as well as in and out, so they can find the perfect position for their needs.
The Freedom Chair is still a very comfortable chair, but it doesn’t have the same level of adjustability as the Embody. Clearly, in this factor, you’ve already known the winner.
Compare the price
When it comes to price, the Herman Miller Embody is definitely the more expensive option. It’s not uncommon to see this chair selling for over $1,000, which is quite a bit more than the Humanscale Freedom Chair. With the full load, the Embody’s price is higher than $1600. That’s too pricey
If you’re on a tight budget, then pick the Humanscale Freedom Chair. It’s significantly cheaper than the Embody without sacrificing too much in terms of comfort or quality.
Compare the ergonomics
When it comes to ergonomics, both the Humanscale Freedom Chair and Herman Miller Embody excel. The Freedom Chair’s auto-harmonic tilt mechanism allows you to recline without putting any strain on your back, while the Embody’s Pixelated Support System evenly distributes your weight across the chair. The Freedom Chair also has adjustable lumbar support that you can move up or down to find the perfect position for your back, while the Embody’s lumbar support is fixed.
Compare the build quality
How about the technology in the seating back? In the Freedom Chair, Humanscale has included what they call “SuperFabric.” It is a high-tech upholstery that is abrasion resistant, breathable, and easy to clean. The Embody’s back is made from a material called elastomer, which is also designed to be breathable and comfortable.
In terms of build quality, there isn’t much to choose between the two chairs. They’re both well-made and should last for many years with proper care.
Compare the sizing
We know that all chairs are unnecessary to fit all people’s body range, but when you pick, make sure this is the ideal one so you can work or study for long hours.
How many sizes from Embody? Well, it is available in three different sizes: small, medium, and large. The Humanscale Freedom Chair is available in two sizes: standard and tall.
The amazing thing about Embody is, that the arm width and the seat are non-constrictive, and the seat depth adjustment allows you to cater to the chair for your leg length. The Humanscale Freedom Chair does not have this feature, so if you are on the taller side, you might want to try out the tall size, or look for another chair.
Compare the warranty
What’s the difference between the warranties from these two companies? The Humanscale Freedom Chair comes with a 15-year warranty, while the Herman Miller Embody comes with a 12-year warranty.
In terms of value for money, the Humanscale Freedom Chair is clearly the winner with a longer warranty.
The verdict
So, who wins in our showdown between the Humanscale Freedom Chair and Herman Miller Embody?
After comparing both chairs, it’s clear that the Freedom Chair is the better option. It’s more comfortable, adjustable, and cheaper than the Embody, and it comes with a longer warranty. If you’re looking for a new office chair, then the Freedom Chair is the clear winner.