Best Second-Hand Office Chairs to Buy in Australia

A premium office chair can be one of the smartest pieces of office furniture to buy second-hand. Commercial-grade chairs from brands such as Herman Miller, Steelcase, Knoll and Humanscale are designed for demanding workplace use, which means a well-maintained used chair can still have plenty of useful life left, often at a significantly lower price than buying the same model new. The resale value can fall much faster than the chair’s practical value, and that’s where buying second-hand starts to make sense.

The catch is that not every used chair is a good buy, and terms such as pre-loved, ex-fleet and refurbished don’t necessarily mean the same thing. Condition, age, previous use, available adjustments and the work carried out before resale can all affect whether you’re getting a genuine bargain or a chair that will soon need repairs.

In this guide, we’ll explain the differences, compare some of the best second-hand office chairs available in Australia, show you what to inspect on each model, and help you decide whether an as-is bargain or a professionally refurbished chair is the better investment.

Used vs Pre-Loved vs Ex-Fleet vs Refurbished Chairs

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they can describe very different levels of condition, preparation and buyer protection.

• Used / second-hand: a broad term for any chair that has had a previous owner. It doesn’t tell you whether the chair has been inspected, serviced or repaired before resale.
• Pre-loved: another common term for a previously owned chair. It may describe a chair in good reusable condition, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that mechanical servicing or refurbishment has been carried out.
• Ex-fleet / ex-corporate: chairs previously used by a business and sold when an office closes, downsizes, relocates or replaces its furniture. These can offer excellent value, particularly when commercial-grade chairs are sold in batches, but condition can vary from chair to chair.
• Refurbished: generally means a used chair has undergone some level of inspection, cleaning, servicing or repair before being offered for resale. The exact process can vary between sellers, so it’s worth checking what work has been completed, whether worn parts have been replaced and what warranty is included.

That distinction matters when comparing prices. A low-priced ex-fleet chair sold as-is and a professionally refurbished version of the same model aren’t necessarily equivalent purchases. The refurbished chair may cost more upfront, but the price can reflect servicing, replacement parts, warranty coverage and greater confidence in its condition.

Why These Chairs Made the List

The chairs in this guide were selected because they combine the qualities that matter most when buying second-hand: commercial-grade construction, proven ergonomic design, reasonable availability in the Australian used market and enough long-term value to make servicing or refurbishment worthwhile.

We also considered how practical each chair is to own after purchase. Models with replaceable components, reasonable access to replacement parts or servicing, and a strong history of use in commercial offices are generally better second-hand candidates than cheaper chairs that may be difficult or uneconomical to repair.

That doesn’t mean every used example is automatically a good buy. Condition still matters, which is why the inspection checks in the next section, and the model-specific checks later in the guide, are just as important as the brand name on the back.

How to Check a Used Office Chair Before You Buy

Before buying any second-hand office chair, run through a few basic checks:

• Gas lift: Make sure the chair holds its height and doesn’t slowly sink while you’re sitting.
• Adjustments: Test the recline, tilt, arms, seat depth and lumbar support where available.
• Seat and back: Look for sagging mesh, compressed foam, torn upholstery, cracks or excessive wear.
• Frame and base: Check the frame, five-star base and castors for cracks, damage or instability.
• Actual condition: Inspect the chair in person where possible, or ask for clear photos of the actual chair rather than relying on stock images.
• Refurbishment: If it’s sold as refurbished, ask what has been inspected, serviced or replaced and whether a warranty is included.

These checks cover the basics. For the chairs below, we’ve also highlighted the model-specific areas worth inspecting before you buy.

11 Second-Hand Office Chairs at a Glance

Second-hand chair prices can vary significantly depending on condition, age, configuration, refurbishment and current availability. The ranges below are indicative of the Australian used market, with professionally refurbished chairs generally sitting toward the higher end.

Quick Picks

• Best refurbished buy overall: Herman Miller Aeron (Original)
• Best-value Herman Miller: Herman Miller Mirra 1
• Best premium used option: Herman Miller Embody
• Best for adjustable lumbar support: Steelcase Leap V2
• Best budget Steelcase: Steelcase Think V2
• Best budget name-brand option: Knoll ReGeneration
• Best underrated option: Haworth Zody

Prices are indicative only and can change with condition, configuration and availability. Check current pricing and stock before purchasing.

Top 11 Second-Hand Office Chairs for Every Budget

1. Herman Miller Aeron (Original)

Best for: Premium refurbished value

The Herman Miller Aeron is one of the most recognisable ergonomic office chairs and one of the strongest options to consider second-hand. Designed by Bill Stumpf and Don Chadwick and introduced in the 1990s, the original Aeron uses a suspended mesh seat and back rather than conventional foam upholstery, creating a supportive and breathable sitting experience.

One of its biggest advantages on the second-hand market is choice. The Aeron was produced in three sizes: A, B and C allowing buyers to choose a chair that better suits their body size rather than relying on a one-size-fits-most design. Its long history in commercial offices has also created a substantial second-hand market, with both used and professionally refurbished examples regularly available.

What to check when buying a used Herman Miller Aeron:

• Inspect the mesh for tears, sagging or damage around the frame.
• Check the frame and five-star base for cracks or structural damage.
• Make sure the gas lift holds the seat at the selected height.
• Test the arm adjustments, recline and tilt mechanisms.
• Check that the lumbar or PostureFit support is secure and functioning properly.
• Confirm whether the chair is Size A, B or C and which adjustments are included.

A private-sale Aeron can offer excellent value when it’s in good condition, while a professionally refurbished model provides greater certainty around inspection, servicing and replaced components.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative refurbished price: From around $1,050, depending on size, configuration and included features.

2. Herman Miller Mirra 1

Best for: A more affordable way into Herman Miller

The Herman Miller Mirra 1 is a strong second-hand option for buyers who want a well-built ergonomic chair without paying used Aeron prices. Designed with Studio 7.5, it uses a flexible TriFlex polymer back that responds as you move while providing support without traditional upholstered padding.

Depending on the configuration, the Mirra 1 can include adjustable arms, lumbar support, tilt controls and other ergonomic adjustments. Its durable polymer construction and relatively strong availability from previous commercial use also make it a practical model to consider second-hand.

What to check when buying a used Herman Miller Mirra 1:

• Inspect the TriFlex back for cracks or structural damage.
• Check the seat and back for excessive wear.
• Test the armrests for looseness or excessive movement.
• Make sure the gas lift holds the selected seat height.
• Test the tilt, recline and lumbar adjustments where fitted.
• Confirm which adjustments are included, as configurations can vary.

The Mirra 1 can be considerably more affordable than an Aeron when bought used, making it a good option for buyers who want Herman Miller quality without stretching to Aeron pricing.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $200–$850, depending on condition, configuration and whether the chair is sold as-is or refurbished.

3. Herman Miller Embody

Best for: Premium ergonomics at a lower second-hand price

The Herman Miller Embody sits at the premium end of the ergonomic chair market, making second-hand examples appealing for buyers who want its responsive back support without paying the full new-chair price. Designed by Bill Stumpf and Jeff Weber, the Embody uses a flexible back structure that responds to movement, along with a layered seat designed to distribute pressure while sitting.

Unlike the Aeron, the Embody uses an upholstered seat, so condition becomes especially important when buying used. Second-hand availability is also generally more limited than models such as the Aeron, which means finding the right combination of condition, configuration and price may require some patience.

What to check when buying a used Herman Miller Embody:

• Inspect the seat and back fabric for stains, tears and excessive wear.
• Check the seat support structure for visible damage or uneven areas.
• Test the BackFit adjustment and make sure it operates smoothly.
• Recline several times and check that the tilt mechanism moves smoothly.
• Test the gas lift and make sure the chair maintains its selected height.
• Check the arms and other adjustments for excessive movement or damage.

The Embody remains relatively expensive even on the second-hand market, but a well-maintained example can still represent good value for buyers specifically looking for a high-end ergonomic chair.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $900–$2,000, depending on age, condition, upholstery and configuration.

4. Herman Miller Mirra 2

Best for: A durable, low-maintenance second-hand option

The Herman Miller Mirra 2 is the updated successor to the original Mirra. Designed with Studio 7.5, it combines a flexible back, lightweight construction and a useful range of ergonomic adjustments, depending on the configuration.

For second-hand buyers, one of the Mirra 2’s main advantages is its relatively low-maintenance construction. With less conventional upholstery than many office chairs, there is less fabric and foam to inspect for wear and compression. Used examples also appear through ex-corporate and office furniture sellers, making the Mirra 2 worth considering for buyers who want Herman Miller quality at a lower price than many used Aerons.

What to check when buying a used Herman Miller Mirra 2:

• Inspect the back for tears, cracks or separation between materials.
• Check the seat surface for excessive wear or damage.
• Test the armrests for looseness or excessive movement.
• Make sure the gas lift holds the selected seat height.
• Test the recline, tilt and lumbar support where fitted.
• Confirm which adjustments are included, as configurations can vary.

A well-maintained Mirra 2 can offer a good balance of ergonomic adjustment, practical construction and second-hand value, particularly for buyers who don’t need the greater name recognition of the Aeron.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $200–$500, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

5. Steelcase Leap V2

Best for: Adjustable lumbar support

The Steelcase Leap V2 is a well-regarded ergonomic office chair, particularly for buyers who prefer an upholstered seat and a highly adjustable back. Its LiveBack design is intended to flex as you change position, while the recline and seat movement help maintain support as you lean back.

One of the Leap V2’s biggest advantages is the amount of control it gives the user. Depending on the configuration, you can adjust seat depth, arm position, recline resistance and lumbar support, making it easier to fine-tune the chair around your preferred sitting position. Its widespread use in commercial offices also means second-hand and ex-corporate examples regularly appear on the used market.

What to check when buying a used Steelcase Leap V2:

• Inspect the seat foam for excessive compression or uneven areas.
• Check the upholstery for stains, tears or heavy wear.
• Test the armrests for looseness and make sure the adjustments hold their position.
• Check the lumbar support and back adjustments where fitted.
• Test the seat-depth adjustment and make sure it locks securely.
• Recline several times to make sure the mechanism operates smoothly.
• Make sure the gas lift holds the selected seat height.

For buyers who prioritise adjustability and prefer upholstery over mesh, the Leap V2 remains one of the more compelling used Steelcase options.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $350–$750, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

6. Steelcase Gesture

Best for: Multi-device work

The Steelcase Gesture is designed for people who regularly change posture while working across laptops, monitors, tablets and other devices. Its standout feature is the highly adjustable arm system, which allows the armrests to move through a wide range of positions to support different working postures.

The Gesture also combines its adjustable arms with a flexible back, adjustable seat depth and controlled recline. For second-hand buyers, this makes it an appealing option for long periods of desk work, particularly when arm and shoulder support are priorities. Used examples often appear through ex-corporate and office furniture sellers, although condition and configuration can vary.

What to check when buying a used Steelcase Gesture:

• Test both armrests through their full adjustment range.
• Check that the arms hold their position without excessive looseness or movement.
• Inspect the seat and back upholstery for stains, tears or heavy wear.
• Test the seat-depth adjustment and make sure it locks securely.
• Recline several times and check that the mechanism moves smoothly.
• Make sure the gas lift maintains the selected seat height.
• Confirm which adjustments are included, as configurations can vary.

Its appeal is strongest for users who rely heavily on arm support and regularly shift between devices and working positions.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $500–$1,000, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

7. Steelcase Think V2

Best for: A practical, lower-cost Steelcase option

The Steelcase Think V2 is designed to provide ergonomic support with less manual adjustment than models such as the Leap or Gesture. Its flexible back responds as you move, while the weight-activated recline is designed to adapt to the user without requiring constant adjustment.

For second-hand buyers, the Think V2 can be an attractive entry point into Steelcase seating. It offers commercial-grade construction and useful ergonomic features while generally appearing at lower used prices than the Leap V2 or Gesture. Ex-corporate examples are also relatively common, giving buyers a reasonable chance of finding different configurations and conditions.

What to check when buying a used Think V2:

• Inspect the seat and back for excessive wear, stains or damage.
• Check that the flexible back provides even support without visible damage.
• Test the recline mechanism and make sure it moves and returns smoothly.
• Check the lumbar support where fitted.
• Test the armrests and make sure their adjustments hold securely.
• Make sure the gas lift maintains the selected seat height.
• Confirm which adjustments are included, as configurations can vary.

The Think V2 is a good choice for buyers who want a quality ergonomic chair without needing the extensive adjustment options of more expensive Steelcase models.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $250–$550, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

8. Knoll Generation

Best for: Active sitters who frequently change position

The Knoll Generation, designed by Formway, takes a more flexible approach to ergonomic seating than many traditional office chairs. Its flexible back is designed to move with the user, allowing greater freedom to lean, turn and shift position throughout the day rather than encouraging one fixed sitting posture.

That flexibility makes the Generation particularly interesting on the second-hand market for people who naturally move around while working. Used and ex-corporate examples can also be found at lower prices than some better-known premium ergonomic chairs, making it worth considering for buyers who value movement over highly structured back support.

What to check when buying a used Knoll Generation:

• Inspect the flexible back for cracks, damage or excessive wear.
• Check that the back flexes evenly and returns to position properly.
• Inspect the frame and five-star base for cracks or structural damage.
• Test the seat for excessive wear or compression.
• Check the armrests for looseness and make sure adjustments hold securely.
• Make sure the gas lift maintains the selected seat height.
• Test the recline and other adjustments where fitted.

The Generation can offer strong second-hand value for active sitters, particularly when a well-maintained example is available at a competitive price.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $150–$450, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

9. Knoll ReGeneration

Best for: Affordable ergonomic seating with a flexible design

The Knoll ReGeneration is a streamlined ergonomic chair designed around flexibility and movement. Compared with the Generation, it takes a simpler approach while still offering a flexible back that responds as the user changes position. Its relatively lightweight design also makes it a practical option for home offices and workplaces where the chair may need to be moved regularly.

For second-hand buyers, the ReGeneration is particularly interesting because it can sometimes be found at considerably lower prices than better-known premium ergonomic chairs. This makes it worth considering for buyers who want a commercial-quality chair but don’t need the extensive adjustment options found on higher-priced models.

What to check when buying a used Knoll ReGeneration:

• Inspect the flexible back for cracks, tears or separation around its attachment points.
• Check that the back flexes evenly and returns to position properly.
• Inspect the upholstered seat for excessive wear, staining or compression.
• Test the armrests for looseness and make sure the adjustments hold securely.
• Check the seat-depth adjustment where fitted.
• Make sure the gas lift maintains the selected seat height.
• Inspect the castors and five-star base for damage.
• Test the recline mechanism and make sure it operates smoothly.

A well-maintained ReGeneration can be a strong budget option for buyers who want a recognised commercial ergonomic chair without spending as much as they might on an Aeron, Embody or Leap.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $149–$400, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

10. Humanscale Liberty

Best for: Ergonomic support with minimal manual adjustment

The Humanscale Liberty is designed around a simpler approach to ergonomic seating. Rather than relying on multiple manual controls, it uses a weight-sensitive recline mechanism that responds as the user leans back. Its form-sensing mesh back is designed to provide support across the back without requiring a separate lumbar adjustment.

This makes the Liberty particularly appealing to second-hand buyers who want a premium ergonomic chair without having to fine-tune numerous settings. The combination of a mesh back and cushioned seat also provides breathability through the back while retaining the familiar feel of an upholstered seat.

What to check when buying a used Humanscale Liberty:

• Lean back several times and make sure the recline responds smoothly to your movement.
• Check that the recline returns smoothly as you move upright.
• Inspect the mesh panels for sagging, tears or damage.
• Check the seat cushion and upholstery for excessive compression, stains or wear.
• Test the armrests and make sure they are secure and operate properly where adjustable.
• Make sure the gas lift holds the selected seat height.
• Inspect the frame, base and castors for cracks, damage or excessive wear.

The Liberty is a strong second-hand option for buyers who prefer a chair that does much of the ergonomic adjustment automatically rather than requiring frequent manual setup.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $300–$700, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

11. Haworth Zody

Best for: Underrated ergonomic value

The Haworth Zody is a commercial-grade ergonomic chair that can offer strong value on the second-hand market. It combines a breathable mesh back with an upholstered seat and a useful range of adjustments, making it a practical option for longer periods of desk work.

One of the Zody’s more distinctive features is its lumbar support. Depending on the configuration, some models include adjustable lumbar support with independent control on each side of the lower back. As with many premium office chairs, however, features can vary between individual used examples, so it’s important to check exactly what is included before buying.

The Zody may receive less attention from second-hand buyers than better-known models such as the Aeron or Leap, which can make a well-maintained example worth considering when the condition, features and price are right.

What to check when buying a used Haworth Zody:

• Check which lumbar support system is fitted to the chair.
• Test the lumbar adjustment and make sure it holds its position.
• If asymmetrical lumbar adjustment is included, test both sides independently.
• Inspect the mesh back for sagging, tears or other damage.
• Check the upholstered seat for excessive compression, stains or wear.
• Test the armrests and make sure their adjustments hold securely.
• Check that the recline and tilt mechanisms operate smoothly.
• Make sure the gas lift maintains the selected seat height.
• Inspect the base and castors for cracks or damage.

At the right price and specification, the Zody can compete surprisingly well with much better-known used ergonomic chairs.

Pros & Cons:

Indicative used price: Around $250–$550, depending on condition, configuration and seller.

Refurbished Dealer vs Private Sale: Which Is Better?

Once you’ve chosen the chair you want, the next decision is how to buy it. The same model can appear as a low-priced private sale, an ex-corporate chair sold as-is, or a professionally refurbished chair from a specialist dealer, and those aren’t necessarily equivalent purchases.

Buying privately or ex-fleet can be the cheapest option. It can work well if you’re comfortable inspecting the chair yourself, testing all of its adjustments and accepting that there may be little or no warranty if something goes wrong. The condition can vary considerably, even between chairs from the same office or fleet.

Buying professionally refurbished generally costs more, but part of that premium can cover work already carried out on the chair. Depending on the seller and model, that may include:

• Inspection and mechanical checks
• Professional cleaning and servicing
• Replacement of worn or damaged components
• Testing of adjustment mechanisms
• Warranty coverage
• The opportunity to inspect or try the chair before buying

For many buyers, the decision comes down to price versus certainty. If getting the lowest possible price matters most and you’re confident assessing a used chair, a private or ex-fleet purchase can offer excellent value. If you’d prefer greater confidence in the chair’s condition and some support after purchase, professionally refurbished is usually the more straightforward option.

At Kelly’s Office Furniture, pre-loved and refurbished chairs are clearly presented according to their condition, with refurbishment details and warranty information provided where applicable so buyers know what they’re getting before they purchase.

Is a Second-Hand Office Chair Worth Buying?

A second-hand office chair should be judged by what it can still deliver, not simply by how old it is. A chair with smooth mechanisms, intact support, the right adjustments and a suitable fit can remain a worthwhile purchase even after years of previous use.

The real value comes from choosing the right model in the right condition. That means paying attention to condition, configuration and how confidently you can assess what you’re getting, not just chasing the lowest price.

When those factors line up, a second-hand chair can be a practical long-term purchase rather than just a cheaper alternative.

For buyers who prefer to inspect and compare options before purchasing, Kelly’s Office Furniture carries a changing range of pre-loved and refurbished office chairs from leading commercial brands, with availability depending on current stock.