Herman Miller Cosm High Back review
The original poster bought this Herman Miller Cosm for $75 on Facebook Marketplace with the intention to flip it for $500-600. However, after using it and comparing it to their existing Embody, they decided to keep the Cosm instead. While they acknowledge the Embody might be slightly more comfortable and has better recline controls (with always-noisy plastic scrunching when reclining), the Cosm significantly outperforms in one crucial area: the recline tension. The Cosm's recline tension is actually easy to adjust based on body weight—you lean back and the tension changes dynamically, making it more intuitive than a knob. You can lean back and lift your feet off the ground with less tension, or keep your legs down and not push for more resistance. The poster found that the more time spent in the Cosm, the more they preferred it over their Embody, ultimately listing the Embody instead. They question why the Cosm is so underrated given its performance.
Pros
- Very easy and intuitive recline tension adjustment based on body weight
- Better recline system than Embody - more dynamic and responsive
- Excellent value at $75 (though retail is higher)
- Preferred over Embody after extended use
Cons
- Non-adjustable recline tension knob (though this turns out to be a feature)
- Seat might not be quite as comfortable as Embody
- Technical recline adjustments not fully comfortable for the user
Herman Miller
Herman Miller Cosm High Back
View this chair, specs & price →