I’m in the Silicon Valley too, and got my Aeron for a similar price from one of the same kinds of office-furniture places. I love it. I’m sitting in it right now, and it’s very comfortable.
The spouse has a “Secret Lab” chair. He got it just before the pandemic hit, and was very glad because he’ used it a lot while working at home. He loves it. They aren’t cheap (around $500, I think) but he and his bad back swear by it.
Way back when the Aeron first appeared, I was awarded one at work due to my dedication or some such office politics silliness. It was a fabulous chair. A year later, I was laid off and I thought I’d get one for my home office. At that time it was about $600 and I couldn’t afford it, because laid off… Flash forward 20 years. Wow, now that’s inflation!
I am using a HON chair at home that cost me about $300 3 years ago. I’m very happy with it, but the quality that makes it last isn’t there. But I could afford lasting quality and house payments both. It has the lumbar support I need. I’m happy.
I’ve had one of these at home for about 3 years now, and it’s great.
Bungee Office Chair | The Container Store
Just put any bolts in with blue threadlocker, and you won’t have issues with squeaking, etc… And if you’re on some sort of floor that’s delicate, you can even buy rollerblade style wheels on Amazon that fit it.
I think Wirecutter also recommended the Hon Ignition 2 as their pick for a moderate ($4-500) chair. I have one that’s been fine for a few years now, but it is not as adjustable as some chairs.