Realspace Radley Mesh Mid-Back Task Chair

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Office Chair

If you’re in the market for a new desk chair, the Realspace Radley Mesh Mid-Back Task Chair should definitely be on your radar. With its mesh back design, customizable features, and budget-friendly price point, this chair has a lot to offer.

But before you whip out your credit card, it’s smart to learn everything you can about the Realspace Radley. As with any big purchase, you’ll want to make sure this chair has the ergonomics, adjustability, and durability to meet your needs.

That’s where this complete buying guide comes in! Below I’ll provide a detailed overview of the Realspace Radley’s features, pros and cons, assembly, pricing, comparisons, and more. My goal is to give you all the details you need to decide if purchasing the Realspace Radley is the right move for your home or office.

Let’s dive in!

Overview of the Realspace Radley Mesh Task Chair

The Realspace Radley is an affordable, mid-back desk chair constructed with a breathable black mesh material. It provides comfort and support for prolonged sitting with an angled mesh backrest and padded seat cushion.

Some standout features of this chair include:

• Adjustable seat height – Raise or lower the seat from 17.75″ to 21.75″ to suit your height and desk.
• Tilt tension control – Customize the amount of force needed to rock back in the chair.
• Swivel capabilities – Swivel a full 360 degrees to easily grab items around your workspace.
• Rolling casters -Smooth rolling casters allow you to move around without standing up.
• Pneumatic seat height adjustment – Easily adjust seat height with pneumatic height adjustment lever.
• Budget price tag – Quality mesh chair under $200.

Now let’s dive deeper into the specifics around comfort, customization, construction, and more!

Comfort and Ergonomics

When you’re sitting for hours on end, comfort is a top priority. You want a chair that will keep you supported and pain-free.

The Realspace Radley aims to provide ergonomic comfort with these key features:

• Contoured mesh back – The breathable mesh back has an S-shape that provides comfortable lumbar support as you recline.
• Padded seat – The cushioned fabric seat pad adds comfort for prolonged sitting. At 19.75″ wide, the seat can accommodate most users.
• Adjustable arms – To help take pressure off your shoulders and neck, the chair arms adjust up and down.
• Tilt locking – Lock the tilt function upright if you prefer an upright seated position. Or leave it unlocked to rock.
• Tilt tension – Easily adjust the amount of force needed to tilt the chair so you can rock at your desired resistance.
• Waterfall seat edge – The front edge of the seat curves down to remove pressure on your legs.

Overall, the cushions, contours, and adjustments allow you to customize the Realspace Radley to meet your unique comfort needs. Most users find it comfortable for long durations.

Adjustability and Customization

A major perk of the Realspace Radley is its adjustability. With all the levers and options, you can customize the fit and feel of the chair.

Here are all the ways you can adjust the Realspace Radley:

• Seat height – Use the pneumatic lever to raise or lower the seat from 17.75″ to 21.75″. Match it to your desk height.
• Seat tilt – Rock back and tilt the seat up to 15 degrees. The tilt tension knob lets you control the amount of force needed to tilt.
• Back tilt – The back can tilt independently from the seat at a 2-to-1 ratio up to 20 degrees. This follows your body’s movement.
• Armrest height – Easily raise or lower the armrests up to 2.36 inches to support your shoulders and neck.
• Seat depth – Slide the seat forward or back up to 2 inches. Get the seat depth perfect for your legs.
• Swivel – The chair base swivels a complete 360 degrees if you’re a fidgeter.

With all those options, people of various heights and sizes can dial in the settings that create a tailored fit. No two bodies are the same, so being able to customize the chair is a major perk.

Build Quality and Materials

At its price point, you can’t expect ultra luxury materials. But the Realspace Radley uses decent quality components that enhance the sitting experience.

• Mesh back – The breathable black mesh keeps air flowing to prevent sweaty backs. It has some flexibility but remains supportive.
• Nylon base – The tough nylon base provides stability and allows smooth rolling over carpets or hard floors.
• Foam cushion – The padded seat uses comfortable foam cushioning. It molds to your shape but holds its form over time.
• Tilt mechanism – The synchro-tilt mechanism is made from heavy-duty plastic and metal to handle frequent rocking and tilting.
• Arm pads – The arm pads have a thick layer of padding for elbow relief during long work sessions.
• Casters – The durable casters roll smoothly and prevent scratches on hard floors.

Considering its affordable price, the Realspace Radley is built with better quality materials than other chairs at this price point. The mesh and customizable settings also give it an upscale feel.

Assembly Process

Putting together the Realspace Radley is a quick and straightforward process. It arrives with all parts and tools included.

Here’s an overview of the assembly:

• Use the provided hex key and screws to attach the armrests, seat, pneumatic cylinder, and casters to the 5-legged base.
• Attach the tilt mechanism to the bottom of the seat.
• Connect the backrest to the tilt mechanism with the provided washers and screws.
• Insert the pneumatic cylinder into the base then attach the assembled seat.
• Flip the chair upright and it’s ready to use!

The clear instructions have illustrations for each step. All hardware is labeled so you know exactly which screws and washers to use where.

Altogether it takes about 20-30 minutes to fully assemble the chair. No special tools are required. The process is straightforward enough for one person to complete solo without frustration. Just be sure to carefully align components and tighten screws securely.

Where to Buy the Realspace Radley Mesh Task Chair

Since it’s part of Office Depot’s furniture brand, the primary place to purchase the Realspace Radley chair is directly through Office Depot. It’s available on their website or at Office Depot stores across the US.

Office Depot frequently runs sales, so keep an eye out for discounted pricing. Or use rebates and coupon codes to save on the chair.

You can also sometimes find the Realspace Radley sold by third-party retailers like Amazon or Wayfair. But your best bet is checking Office Depot first since they manufacture the chair.

What is the Price of the Realspace Radley?

The regular list price for the Realspace Radley Mesh Task Chair runs between $150 and $220. But Office Depot usually sells it for lower than list pricing.

Here’s an overview of the typical pricing you’ll find:

• Non-sale Office Depot price: $169.99
• Office Depot sale price: $139.99
• Third party retailer price: $159 to $199

The good news is this chair can often be purchased for under $150 when Office Depot runs a sale. Just opt for free site-to-store pickup rather than delivery to avoid any shipping fees.

At that price point, the Realspace Radley provides excellent value. The mesh construction, ergonomic design, and smooth adjustments make it function like a more expensive chair.

How the Realspace Radley Compares to Other Office Chairs

The Realspace Radley holds its own against other popular task chairs in the mid-price range. Here’s how it stacks up:

• Mesh material – Unlike chairs like the Amazon Basics or IKEA Markus with fabric seats, the breathable mesh on the Realspace prevents heat buildup.
• Comfort features – It provides more customizable comfort options like adjustable armrests and tilt settings vs. budget picks like the Walker Edison task chair.
• Build quality – Materials and construction are more durable than very cheap task chairs under $100.
• Cost – Dollar for dollar, it provides better value, adjustments, and longevity than most Amazon task chairs under $150.

But it doesn’t have the premium build and longevity of high-end chairs like the Herman Miller Aeron or Steelcase Leap which cost $500+.

Overall, for under $200 the Realspace Radley competes well with other mid-range task chairs. The mesh material, comfort options, and adjustability make it stand out at its price point.

Materials Used in the Realspace Radley Chair

The Realspace Radley utilizes quality materials throughout its construction:

• Mesh back – Breathable elastic polymer mesh
• Arm pads – Polyurethane foam pads over plastic arms
• Seat cushion – Padded foam seat cushion with polyester cover
• Frame – Molded plastic shell over nylon 5-star base
• Casters – Dual-wheel plastic and rubber casters
• Adjustment knobs – Plastic with metal shafts
• Tilt mechanism – Steel recline mechanism with plastic housing
• Cylinder – Steel pneumatic cylinder

Opting for mesh on the back instead of cheaper plastic or fabric allows air flow to keep you cooler. The padded seat strike a balance between comfort and firm support.

While not top luxury leathers and meshes, the materials hold up better and look sharper than chairs under $100. Overall, it’s a solid pick for the price.

Durability and Longevity

For a mid-range task chair under $200, the Realspace Radley has better longevity than models with all plastic frames. The combination of metal and hard plastics will withstand daily wear and tear in an office setting better than fabric or cheap plastic chairs.

The mesh material resists sagging and deterioration over time. And the seat cushion retains its shape rather than flattening out quickly. It’s built to handle prolonged use for multiple years.

One thing to keep in mind is that very heavy users may shorten the lifespan. The recommended weight capacity is 250 lbs. Those significantly over that mark may experience parts wearing out more rapidly.

But for average sized users under the weight limit, the chair should last 4+ years with proper care. Overall the Realspace Radley has good longevity given its affordable price tag.

Back Support Offered

One advantage of a mesh back chair is the breathable comfort it provides. The contoured mesh construction on the Realspace Radley provides decent lumbar support as you recline.

It lacks more advanced lumbar adjustment of pricier models. But the mesh still conforms to give your spine alignment as you tilt and move. The back flexibility combined with the tilt tension and lock functions allow you to rock or keep upright as desired.

Having that mesh cradling your back is a perk over chairs with solid plastic or fabric backs. The air circulation also prevents heat and sweat buildup during long sitting stints.

While not as breathable and supportive as aeron chair mesh, the backrest still offers satisfactory support for most users. Given the price, its back comfort shines over chairs lacking any mesh or lumbar contour.

Weight Capacity of the Realspace Radley

The Realspace Radley task chair has a maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds.

This weight recommendation is based on the chair’s build and materials. Exceeding 250 lbs puts extra stress on components and may cause premature wear or breakage.

At just under 38 lbs fully assembled, the Realspace Radley rates on the heavier side for a mesh chair. The metal and plastic construction provide solid strength and stability.

However, very heavy users over 300 lbs may find that other models with steel frames like the Oif Ergo Premier provide more robust support.

But for the majority of users whose weight falls within the product specs, the Realspace Radley can handle loads up to 250 lbs just fine. Those able to keep their weight in that range will get the most durability from this affordable chair.

Color Options Available

The Realspace Radley task chair comes in just one main color choice: black.

The elastic polymer mesh backrest has a monochromatic black tone. This matches nicely with the black nylon base and black plastic arm accents.

The only other color introduced is in the padded seat cushion. It features a gray polyester cover over the black foam pad. This gray seat paired with the black mesh gives the chair a sharp, professional look.

Offering just one color choice helps keep costs down. And it allows the chair to seamlessly blend into modern or traditional office settings.

Some chairs require picking one mesh color and separate seat colors that may or may not coordinate well. The single muted black & gray color scheme gives the Realspace Radley a more upscale cohesive appearance.

Cleaning the Mesh Backrest

One perk of the breathable mesh back is that it’s easy to keep clean. Since spills and sweat can seep right through rather than soaking into fabric, quick cleaning keeps the Realspace Radley looking fresh.

Here are some tips for cleaning the mesh backrest:

• Spot treat spills and stains quickly to prevent setting in.
• Use a soft brush or cloth to lightly scrub dirt and debris from the mesh strands.
• Spot clean with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• For deeper cleaning, use an office chair Mesh Cleaning Spray designed for polymer mesh.
• Let the mesh air dry fully after cleaning before using again.
• Vacuum along seams periodically to remove dust buildup.

Avoid excessive water and overly abrasive scrubbing to prevent damaging the mesh coating. With regular gentle cleaning, the breathable mesh stays looking new.

What Do Customer Reviews Say?

The Realspace Radley Mesh Task Chair earns solid 4+ star reviews across major retailers. Here’s what buyers praise about it:

• Easy to assemble out of the box and took 20 minutes or less
• Chair adjusts smoothly and customizes well to fit different users
• Good back support from the contoured mesh backrest
• Seat cushion provides comfortable padding for long sitting sessions
• Mesh material stays cool compared to all-fabric chairs
• Armrests adjust to alleviate shoulder strain during computer work
• Chair rolls quietly on carpet and hard flooring
• Seems very sturdy and well made for the price

Some downsides mentioned include the plastic arm caps cracking over time and the seat lacking thickness for heavier users. But overall most agree it’s a fantastic value for the sub $200 price.

Warranty Details

The Realspace Radley mesh chair provides a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty is valid for the lifetime of the original purchaser.

What does the limited lifetime warranty cover?

• Defects in materials like cracked plastic or failing tilt mechanism
• Structural damage to the main chair components
• Broken or malfunctioning adjustment functions
• Peeling, cracking, or ripping of the mesh material

To receive support, contact Office Depot’s customer service team with a description of the issue plus your original purchase receipt.

Issues covered under warranty will be repaired or replaced at Office Depot’s discretion. Shipping costs may apply for replacements.

Some key exclusions from the warranty include normal wear and tear, accidents/abuse, and commercial use exceeding 8 hours daily. But within reason, they stand behind the chair with repairs or parts replacement.

Full Range of Adjustability

One of the Realspace Radley’s biggest selling points is the wide range of adjustments for optimizing comfort and fit.

You can customize these settings as needed:

• Seat height – Raise or lower the seat anywhere from 17.75″ up to 21.75″ high
• Armrest height – Each armrest independently adjusts up to 2.36 inches up or down
• Seat depth – Slide seat forward or back up to 2 inches total
• Seat tilt – Tilt seat back up to 15 degrees and rock
• Tilt tension – Turn knob to increase/decrease tilt resistance from upright position
• Back tilt – Back independently tilts up to 20 degrees to follow body during recline
• Swivel – Chair and seated position rotate 360 degrees around

Having all those levers and locks allows people of varying heights to fine tune the Realspace Radley to their ideal ergonomic position.

Realspace Radley for a Home Office

With its affordable price and Sharp look, the Realspace Radley serves well for home offices. Its customizable ergonomics provide comfortable support whether working for a few hours or prolonged seated work sessions.

Here are some benefits of using this chair in a home office:

• Streamlined style – Sleek black mesh and arm design blends with any home decor. No bulky pads or cushions
• Doesn’t take up much space – Compact footprint fits even smaller home office nooks
• Quiet performance – Rolls quietly on both hard and carpeted floors so no noisy distractions
• Easy to keep clean – Mesh prevents staining and is simple to spot clean as needed
• Provides adjustability – Fully customizable to dial in perfect settings for your body
• Sturdy performance – Durable construction stands up to repeated daily use without failure

The Realspace Radley brings professional ergonomic function to a home workspace at an affordable price. All the comfort features allow it to support your body and focus over long sedentary periods.

Using the Realspace Radley for Gaming

The Realspace Radley makes for a solid gaming chair choice for casual gamers. Its adjustments allow dialing in settings tailored for keyboard and mouse use.

Here are some benefits for using it as a gaming chair:

• Mesh keeps you cool – The breathable back prevents sweaty backs during intense gameplay
• Armrests adjust up/down – Position armrests to support your elbows at an ideal height
• Rocker functions– Tilt and rock the chair to recline during cinematics or loading screens
• Maneuverability – Chair’s 360 degree swivel makes reaching for game controllers and peripherals easy
• Right height range – Adjustable 17.75-21.75″ height lets you raise or lower chair to desk level
• Headrest not needed – Mesh provides decent neck support even without a headrest pillow

The Realspace Radley works well for casual gaming, though very serious gamers may want a larger seat and more pronounced lumbar support. But for boosting comfort during daily gaming sessions, it’s a solid pick.

Chair Dimensions

Before ordering the Realspace Radley, it’s smart to measure your workspace to ensure the chair will fit well.

Here are the complete dimensions:

• Overall height – Adjusts from 41.75” (minimum height) up to 45.75“ (maximum height)
• Seat height – Ranges from 17.75″ (lowest setting) up to 21.75″ (tallest setting)
• Overall depth – 27.5” from front seat edge to back of backrest
• Overall width – 27” measured across widest part of backrest
• Seat dimensions – 19.75″ (width) x 19″ (depth)
• Base dimensions – 27.5″ diameter

With an overall footprint of 27″ W x 27.5″ D, the Realspace Radley fits in most office spaces. But be sure to have at least 27 inches clearance between desk/walls to allow swiveling. The seat width also accommodates most people, though over 300 lbs may want a wider chair.

Adjustable Armrest Features

Having armrests that adjust up, down, forward, and back allow you to position them to properly support your body during work.

The Realspace Radley includes flip-up armrests that adjust 2.36 inches up and down. Each arm moves independently, so you can stagger them to match your shoulder height as needed.

Raising or lowering the arms helps keep your shoulders relaxed. Positioning them slightly above your elbow height takes strain off the neck and shoulders while typing.

Flip them up and out the way when you want them gone entirely. This makes getting in and out of the chair easier.

While they don’t adjust forward/back, simply raising or lowering the arms provides ergonomic benefits. This feature really maximizes the chair’s comfort.

Does The Chair Roll Well on Carpets?

A common concern with office chairs is their ability to roll smoothly across different floor surfaces. Cheap wheels can grab and resist spinning on carpeted floors.

The Realspace Radley performs well in this regard. Its dual wheel casters feature thick rubber tires around the edges. This material grips carpets to allow steady movement.

At just under 2 inches wide, the casters roll smoothly on carpets without excessive grabbing or resistance. Even high pile carpet is very manageable.

The plastic inner wheels create minimal friction when rolling across hard floors. And the rubber tires prevent scratching your flooring. They transition well between surface types.

Just keep the wheels free of debris buildup that could impede spinning. Overall the casters do a great job rolling over both hard floors and carpets of varying pile heights.

Conclusion

The Realspace Radley task chair makes an excellent budget-friendly choice for office seating comfort. Adjustable features provide tailored ergonomic support all day long. And the mesh back offers breathability lacking in many cheap chairs.

Before hitting purchase, be sure to measure your workspace area to ensure a proper fit. Then get ready to assemble quickly and start enjoying quality comfort and support for hours of desk work or PC gaming.

With its sturdy and adjustable construction, the Realspace Radley works hard so you can stay focused on the task at hand. For under $200, it’s a worthy investment to create a more comfortable and productive work space.