Haworth Very Task vs Herman Miller Aeron: Which Should You Buy?

Introduction

The Haworth Very Task and Herman Miller Aeron represent two premium approaches to the mesh task chair. On paper, they're remarkably similar: identical dimensions, matching 4D arms, the same recline range and warranty. But the Aeron commands a $426 premium over the Very Task, and user experiences reveal meaningful differences in comfort, fit, and long-term satisfaction. This comparison cuts through the specs to help you decide which chair deserves your investment.

At a glance

Haworth Very Task — strengths & weaknesses

Strengths: Users praised the Very Task for extended sitting comfort, with one reporting no pain after several hours of use. The chair features science-based ergonomic design with intuitive weight-sensing recline and multiple adjustable features. Its compact scale and versatile design suit a range of workspaces. The recommended height range extends to 195 cm, accommodating taller users better than many competitors on paper.

Weaknesses: Real-world fit issues emerged for taller users. One 6-foot reviewer reported that their back touched the plastic frame, causing discomfort. The standard mesh quality drew criticism for being too flexible. Customer service problems surfaced in reviews, with one user reporting no exchange or resolution when issues arose. The chair scored a modest 3.0 out of 5, and some review content was promotional rather than substantive user feedback.

Herman Miller Aeron — strengths & weaknesses

Strengths: The Aeron's most compelling advantage is resale value. One reviewer noted buying used for $300–400 and reselling years later at the same price, making the total cost of ownership competitive with budget chairs. The iconic Pellicle mesh with 8Z zones delivers exceptional ventilation. Users described it as "sitting on a cloud," and comments indicated it works well for people with back, hip, and knee issues. The chair rated 3.5 out of 5 across a larger sample of reviews.

Weaknesses: Despite long-term testing, one reviewer struggled to fully embrace the Aeron as a daily driver after three years. Another noted the seat pan "feels like it digs too deep into bottom." The high price point is a consistent concern, and reviewers acknowledged the chair "is not suitable for everyone." Sizing matters—the medium (B) version supports users only up to 180 cm tall, limiting options for taller individuals.

How they differ

Price and value proposition: The Very Task costs $1,095 versus the Aeron's $1,521. However, the Aeron's exceptional resale value changes the math. Users reported buying and selling for the same price years later, effectively making it a near-zero-cost investment if purchased used. The Very Task offers no such resale track record.

Fit and comfort: Both chairs share identical dimensions, but user experiences diverge. The Very Task's standard mesh drew complaints for being too flexible, and the plastic frame caused issues for at least one taller user. The Aeron's Pellicle mesh and PostureFit SL lumbar system received more consistent comfort praise, though the seat pan design didn't work for everyone.

Height accommodation: The Very Task officially supports users up to 195 cm, while the Aeron (size B) maxes out at 180 cm. In practice, however, a 6-foot user found the Very Task uncomfortable due to frame contact. The Aeron comes in three sizes (A, B, C), offering more tailored fit options if you choose the right size.

Support and service: Reviews mentioned poor customer service for the Very Task, with no exchange offered when problems arose. The Aeron benefits from Herman Miller's established parts ecosystem and support network, with users sharing replacement guides and documentation.

Who should buy which

Buy the Haworth Very Task if: You want premium ergonomics at a $426 discount and plan to keep the chair long-term. You're within the 165–180 cm height range where both chairs overlap, avoiding the taller-user fit issues reported. You value the weight-sensing recline and don't mind taking a chance on a chair with less proven real-world feedback.

Buy the Herman Miller Aeron if: You're willing to invest more upfront for better resale value and a chair with a proven 25-year track record. You have back, hip, or knee issues and need the PostureFit SL lumbar system. You're comfortable buying used (potentially for $300–400) to access premium ergonomics at Very Task pricing. You want access to extensive sizing options and parts support.

Consider alternatives if: You're taller than 180 cm and the Very Task's plastic frame is a concern. The Aeron's limited height range won't work, and the Very Task has documented fit issues for taller users. Neither chair includes a headrest, which may be important for reclined work.

The verdict

On paper, these chairs are twins. In practice, the Herman Miller Aeron justifies its premium through superior resale value, proven comfort across a wider user base, and better support infrastructure. If you buy an Aeron used, you effectively get a premium chair at Very Task pricing with minimal depreciation risk. The Very Task offers genuine savings for buyers who'll keep it for the full 12-year warranty period and fit within its comfort sweet spot, but its lower rating, customer service concerns, and mixed reviews on mesh quality make it the riskier choice. For most buyers, the Aeron's track record and resale value tip the scales—unless the $426 upfront difference is prohibitive.