The Ergohuman GEN1 was a game-changer in the world of mesh office chairs, giving the Herman Miller Aeron classic a run for its money. Its success even propelled BTOD from a college idea to a thriving business. However, over time, I found myself disliking the chair due to certain issues with the seat. But now, after using the GEN2 for a month, I can confidently say that it has addressed many of the GEN1’s flaws.

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Ergohuman Generation 2 Chair Links

1. Aesthetic Changes
2. Build Quality
3. Recline Function
4. Backrest Upgrades
5. Ergohuman Armrests
6. Seat Comfort

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1. Aesthetic Changes

The design changes in the GEN2 may feel subtle, but they are significant enough to make this chair a high-end alternative to the Aeron. The improved mechanism, seat, and backrest, along with the sleek integrated tension mechanism and polished aluminum accents, give the GEN2 a standout design.

2. Build Quality

When the Ergohuman was first released in the early 2000s, its build quality was already impressive. We have sold over ten thousand in the last 17 years. Many of our original customers still use their chairs today, with only minor replacements needed for parts like casters and arm pads. The GEN2 has made big changes to its mechanism, encasing it in polished aluminum for a more solid and sleek feel.

While the frame of the Ergohuman GEN2 may not be on par with the Aeron, it is still of excellent quality, especially considering its lower price point. Most people will be more than satisfied with the frame’s durability and stability.

The quality of the mesh on any chairs will ultimately decide how good it really can be. The GEN1 chair was a significant upgrade over all chairs not named Aeron but had room for improvement. The change to the GEN2 mesh was one of the most noticeable things while using the chair. Switching from a stapling process to slot fixing, similar to the Aeron allowed Ergohuman to precisely create 12-zone mesh support with the T168 mesh material.

The new mesh material used was upgraded in how it was produced. Increasing the amount of yarn within both types of mesh allowed for better tension and elasticity. This change led to an increase in overall support, prevention of sagging from long term usage and created a more comfortable experience all around.

3. Recline Function

Next, the recline feature on the Ergohuman GEN2 is pretty incredible. It offers a smooth transition from an upright position to a reclined position, allowing for rocking back and forth. The change in arm attachment position has eliminated the awkward gap that was present in the GEN1.

4. Backrest Upgrades

One major change in the GEN2 is the backrest design. While the backrest of the GEN1 was already a great feature, there was room for improvement. The GEN2 addresses three major concerns. First, getting the backrest to feel like it positioned you in a more upright position with proper support throughout your entire back was the breakthrough I needed. In making this change, they also eliminated the headrest getting in the way and preventing you from proper support for your upper back.

Most of this was actually done through minor design changes in the shape of the backrest frame and flex zones in the mesh. The design change repositioned the mesh, hitting your upper back sooner and allowing the headrest to move more in line with the upper backrest. This change allowed for Ergohuman to remove the foam back in the lumbar support that could be felt when you pushed back into the chair.

Secondly, the lumbar system of the Ergohuman has always been a subject of debate. The GEN2 introduces an adjustable tension system with a wide range, allowing users to customize the level of support based on their weight and preference. The backrest also offers more height adjustment options, going from four preset positions to six, and features a ratchet height adjustment system for even more customization. These changes ensure that the lumbar support hits the back at the right spot for the best comfort.

The GEN2 headrest didn’t just see an improvement of where it was positioned. The new mesh material used on this version of the chair is softer and feels better on your neck and head. They have also done a better job at fixing the height adjustment in place, where the GEN1 moved a bit too easily. The pivot feature on the GEN2 is similar to the GEN1 and I would say is a bit too easy to move, but it is still noticeably better.

5. Ergohuman Armrests

Over the course of 17 years, Ergohuman has slowly been improving their armrest pads and design. Their latest change in design with the GEN2 is by far the best so far. For the first time, they have introduced width adjustment, which is very important to get the fit right for different body types. This is a nice upgrade; I would just like to see the range be increased another 50%.

The pivot adjustment range has also been increased, providing excellent support when using a cell phone or tablet, especially in full recline. I honestly love this feature and I didn’t expect to. If you’re a soft arm pad lover, well now is the time to rejoice. One of the most frequent comments I heard when rolling the chair around the office for others to try was how soft the arm pads were. The arm pads themselves are soft and comparable to the Aerons arm pads. I would have a hard time not ranking the Ergohuman arm pads S tier, they are that good.

6. Seat Comfort

Now, let’s talk about the most crucial aspect of any mesh office chair: seat comfort. The GEN2 has made significant improvements in this area. As mentioned earlier in the build quality section, there was a big change to the mesh material used and how they attached it to the chair. This material change provided better elasticity for longer term durability and four specific zones within the mesh material, creating a much-improved sitting experience over the original chair.

The removal of the front seat pad reduces pressure on the back of the legs, which is often a problem with mesh chairs. The flatter design of the seat frame, paired with the new waterfall front that removes the foam padding, eliminates awkward pressure points and allows for better weight distribution across the mesh. During my longer sitting periods, I can work comfortably for hours without any tailbone issues.

Bottom Line

Finding a good all-mesh alternative to the Aeron can be challenging, but the Ergohuman GEN2 offers a viable option for those with a budget under $1000. It provides the breathability and support that mesh chairs have, along with customizable features like a height-adjustable backrest and seat slider. Pair that with a headrest that is comfortable and I believe Ergohuman has a real chance to compete with the Herman miller Aeron again.

Additional Office Chair Resources

• 5 Best Ergonomic Office Chairs For Back Support
• Herman Miller Aeron Vs. Eurotech Ergohuman Chair: Which Is Best?
• Eurotech Ergohuman High-Back Mesh Chair ME7ERG (2025 Review / Rating / Pricing)
• 8 Problems And Solutions With The Ergohuman Chair
• Eurotech Ergohuman High Back LE9ERG 2025 Review