I toyed with the idea of asking this in the hardware section since I consider a good chair an esential part of harware, but I figure I should play it safe and ask here:
I am in the market for a new office chair. I do freelance 3D work and spend 8+ hours in it a day and the one I have now is litterally falling apart. Any suggestions on what to get and where to get it?
There are so many options, but I can give a guide as to what to look for. I worked in construction estimating AND I am a fairly hardcore gamer so I spend quite a bit of time in chairs myself.
a lockable/unlockable reclining back. lockable for resting your back when working or longer game sessions, and unlockable for when you are watching a video/tutorial or just need to lounge. It sucks when you can't put your weight on the back in long work sessions.
Ample but soft butt cushion. You need cushion so your butt doesnt feel sore or stiff in the long run, but you dont want it to be too stiff that your legs loose circulation. As a side note, do squats and stretches every couple hours.
Armrest height - make sure your arm rests are just below your table and your arms can comfortably rest on them without reaching too far down or making your shoulders feel cramped. I prefer a reclining chair where the arms recline with your back. its more comfortable and keeps your arms pointed at the desk.
gladiness and metal base - make sure the chair has a metal base. Plastic gives and create ruts in the wheels and legs where you just wont glide smoothly on the floor. make sure you can move well in the chair as that is a major point of frustration for a long term chair.
Last but not least... The headrest. A proper work chair should have a headrest or a high back with a head cushion. You dont want to recline and be looking at the ceiling. You should be able to look forward where you need to be. You could invest in a neck pillow... but you shouldnt have to if you are looking for a long term nice chair.
**I couldn't tell you a particular chair as every company has good and bad chairs. I really hope this helps.