For office chairs, customization is king. Whether you're adjusting for comfort, style, or space-saving reasons, many users wonder: “Can I remove the armrests without compromising the stability of the backrest?” It’s a fair question—and the answer depends on your specific chair model, but let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.
Why Remove the Armrests?
Before we dive into the technicalities, let’s talk about why you might want to remove the armrests in the first place:
- More freedom of movement – For tasks that involve closer desk work or creative activities, armrests can sometimes get in the way.
- Space efficiency – Without armrests, your chair may slide under your desk more easily, freeing up room in smaller offices.
- Aesthetic preferences – You might prefer a sleeker, minimalist look.
- Physical comfort – Armrests that are too high, too low, or poorly padded can lead to shoulder or wrist strain, especially during long work hours.
With these benefits in mind, it's natural to ask what the trade-offs are.
The Role of Armrests in Chair Stability
To determine whether removing the armrests will affect the backrest’s stability, we need to understand how most best office chair are constructed.
In many ergonomic office chairs, the armrests are attached to the seat base independently of the backrest structure. This means:
- The backrest is usually secured to the seat pan or base mechanism directly via a bracket or support frame.
- The armrests are modular, allowing them to be added, removed, or adjusted without affecting the core integrity of the chair.
In these cases, yes—you can safely remove the armrests without destabilizing the backrest.
However, there are exceptions.
When Removing Armrests Might Compromise Stability
Some budget or older chair designs have armrests that are structural components. That is, they:
- Connect the seat and the backrest, providing support to both
- Help distribute weight, especially in lighter or more compact chairs
In these designs, removing the armrests could lead to:
- A wobbly backrest
- Reduced load capacity
Long-term damage due to unsupported stress on the backrest mount
If you're unsure, check your chair’s manual or look underneath the seat to see how the armrests attach. Are they bolted to the side of the seat? Are they part of a continuous frame with the backrest? If so, removal might not be advisable.
What About High-End Ergonomic Chairs?
Premium ergonomic chairs, like the Sihoo Doro series, often feature independent modular components:
- The backrest is fully supported by a robust internal mechanism, such as a dynamic lumbar support system or an adjustable tilt frame.
- The armrests are independently height-, width-, and depth-adjustable, and often designed to be optional or removable.
In these chairs, you can confidently remove the armrests and retain full backrest support—no wobbling, no compromise.
Tips Before Removing Your Armrests
If you decide to go ahead, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Save the parts – Keep all screws, brackets, and armrest components in a labeled bag. You might want to reattach them in the future.
- Test the chair – Sit, lean, and tilt after removing the armrests to make sure the backrest still feels firm.
- Watch for warranty terms – Some manufacturers may void the warranty if you remove standard components. Check the fine print.
- Double-check adjustability – If you’re removing armrests because they’re uncomfortable, see if you can adjust them first. Modern chairs often offer 4D or even 6D armrest movement that can solve comfort issues without removal.
Conclusion: Yes, Usually—But Check First
In most modern ergonomic office chairs, especially those with modular construction like the Sihoo Doro C300 or Doro S300, you can remove the armrests without affecting the stability of the backrest. These chairs are engineered to function well with or without arm support, giving you the flexibility to adapt your setup.
However, in some models—particularly budget or older designs—armrests may play a structural role. Always inspect your chair’s frame and consult the manufacturer before making changes.
At the end of the day, your chair should work for you. Whether that means going armrest-free for more space or keeping them for ergonomic support, the key is finding the right balance between comfort, stability, and personal workflow.
