You’d think that the only difference between Aeron B and C is the size. But when it comes to the user experience, there can be more to just a bigger seat and overall dimensions of the chair. And even minute details can affect one’s sitting experience and comfort.
At first, you’d think that it’s easy to just go for the bigger Aeron chair since it can allow for more room. But you also have to consider how the chair feels overall. And this article aims to help you tell the difference between Aeron B and C, aside from the larger overall dimensions.
How different is Aeron B from C?
Let’s consider the table below as we navigate through the differences between these two chairs.
Herman Miller | Aeron B | Aeron C |
Seat depth | 17” | 18.5” |
Seat width | 20.25” | 15” |
Seat height | 15.8″–20.8″ | 16.8″–22.8″ |
Width between arms | 18.5” | 20.5” |
Backrest width | 27” | 28.5” |
Recommended user height | 5’3”-6’2” | 6’3” up |
Recommended user weight | 130-230 lbs | 230-300 lbs |
The Aeron B would have more of a universal fit. It’s a chair that can be an option for the higher limit of Aeron A and the lower limit of Aeron C recommendation. So this is the size that can cater to those “in-betweens”. Say if you are 5’3 and on the heavier side say 140-150 lbs, you have the option to choose between A and B. And considering the extra weight and bodily dimensions, you may be better off with a B rather than an A.
Those who are on the upper limit of the size recommendation of the B will often benefit from a size higher, this is to be able to feel a more significant difference in the seat size. You’ll find the seat depth, particularly, more amenable to your long legs. But aside from the larger dimensions, there are subtle differences that may mean heaps when it comes to the overall comfort of the user.
The backrest of the B and C feels a bit different
It’s not just that it’s higher for the C, you can feel that there is a bit more curve on the backrest of the Aeron C. It seems to curve more backward too.
So some may find that they have to rest their body further back to be able to rest their shoulders on the backrest. If this happens to you, it might mean that the seat depth may be too deep for you, so going for an Aeron B might resolve this issue.
The PostureFit on the C also feels different
Though both Aeron chairs are engineered with the same technology, this particular feature has a subtle difference.
You need to do more adjustments with that of the B just to find the perfect spot. The C requires subtle adjustment and you’ll be able to fine-tune the chair faster according to your needs and liking.
The C has a flatter seat
The seat of the Aeron C feels flatter than the B. This is also mainly due to the gradual curvature of the seat since it has a broader area.
So you will feel a more hug-in-mug sensation with the B’s seat. If this is an advantage actually depends on your preference. Though one of the pros of a flatter seat is that you will feel all parts of your thighs are supported since the seat doesn’t have that curve. But the downside is, it can sound off too bland or feel too bland.
With the C, you’ll also be leaning more forward. So this can be a better choice for tasking or if you need to be more pushed towards the desk. The B, having a more curved seat also tends to push you a bit more backward.
The arms of the C are wider apart
Since the C is a bigger chair overall, you can also expect the arm width to be more. So if you are torn between B and C size recommendations, what can be a better gauge is how thick or chunky your upper body dimensions are. Often, the chunkier you are, the more need for the arms to be set wider apart. And if you feel like you tend to lean more forward just to keep your arms planted on the armrests, then the C is too big for you.
Is it always better to go for the bigger size?
Based on what we have discovered above, not really. Aside from the width of the seat and the seat height range, a lot of factors also come into play when it comes to the overall comfort and suitability of the chair out of your height and body dimensions.
But keep in mind that this issue mainly applies to those who are torn between a B and a C. That means your weight and height can be accommodated by both chairs.
You also have to consider other factors.
Are you heavier in the hips or the thighs? Do you favor a chair that is leaning more forward? Do you want a flatter seat or do you want a hug-in-a-mug kind of support? These are some of the underrated gauges that can heavily affect a user’s experience.
You also have to consider the seat pan.
The seat pan on the C is substantially bigger than that of the B. So if you are too small for the C ( considering also the length of your legs and torso) you may feel that the lip of the seat may be putting too much pressure on your legs when you reline. So bigger is not necessarily better even if it has a more accommodating seat.
Then there is the backrest height. The proper height ensures that it will not hit your back in the wrong places.
Otherwise, you can feel the hard plastic material digging into your flesh.
Also, consider the distance between the arms. They must not be too narrow or too wide apart. Though the Aeron arms are adjustable, you still have to be sure that what you need is within the range that the arms can adjust to. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself either struggling to keep your elbows on the armrests or you might feel too cramped.
With that, the B is often considered more comfortable by more people. It also tends to offer better support for the back and the arms for those who stand 6’2 and weigh 240-260 lbs. But of course, it also can be different for you should you have shorter legs or long legs.
Thus we find that it is better to get the B if you are slightly taller up to 6’2” and slightly heavy. The C can be most comfortably used by those who stand taller 6’0”-6’3” but you have to be on the heftier side so that the dimensions of the chair will not seem too big for you.
Always going for the bigger size if you want a wider seat can sacrifice other areas of comfort. Thus, it affects your productivity, especially if you intend to use the chair for longer than five hours.
Getting the suitable size will ensure that you get the proper ergonomics
Buying the right Aeron chair size entails more than just having enough room for your booty or having the backrest high enough for you. It will also ensure that you have the proper ergonomics so that you will be able to focus better on your work sans the back and leg discomfort
Sure you have the Aeron size and fit chart that can help you determine which size to get for your height and weight. But there is more to it.
Though the chart is useful for those who know how to read them, it can be tricky especially if you cannot try the chair out for yourself.