Are you searching for the best recliner chair on the market? These products can be very useful and comfortable. You can use them to maximize comfort while sitting and watching TV, but also extend them and enjoy sleeping. If you want to make the most out of these chairs, it is essential to find one that suits your preference.
That is why we listed top-rated units in our recliner chair reviews. Our team selected six chairs and focused on their advantages and drawbacks.
We also included a comprehensive buying guide that will tell you everything about the purchasing process of recliner chairs. The guide goes a step further and talks about the benefits of reclining and the importance of using these products. Our aim is to provide all the information about recliner chairs you would ever need. Thanks to that, you will be able to pick a unit that will secure your ultimate comfort and make your life better!
Table of Contents
Best Recliner Chairs
1. Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Power Recliner
Although you can also choose a black variation, saddle brown color seems like an elegant and classy choice. It will fit any decor and add aesthetic value wherever you place the chair.
The recliner utilizes a dual motor to ensure that you can adjust it to any of the available positions at the touch of a button. The motor that runs the chair is reliable and will serve you for a long time. The chair can be adjusted to 180 degrees, which means you can use it for sleeping. However, the foot section doesn’t go all the way up, which might compromise comfort when lying down.
The manufacturer used faux leather as the preferred material, and the bearing capacity is 300 pounds. The chair is stable and features strong construction. Apart from the lumbar support, you can also expect pillow top armrests for additional comfort. The seating area is oversized, and the assembly process is simple.
Read more: Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Recliner Chair Review
2. Mcombo Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair Sofa
Mcombo designed a recliner that has numerous convenient features. The sides come with two side pockets and cup holders, as well as USB ports. You can use them for low-powered devices, such as cell phones. That way, you have everything you might need without even getting up from your chair.
However, if you need to leave the recliner, you can rely on the motor. It features a counter-balanced mechanism that will help you get up without stressing your knees. That makes the chair very convenient for people with arthritis and knee issues.
Mcombo got a TUV approval for the motor, which means that it operates quietly, and you can rely on it for a long time. The chair itself might creak a bit when going up and down, but that is not a deal-breaker. The maximum recline angle is 140 degrees, and the weight capacity of the chair is 320 pounds.
3. Flash Furniture Contemporary Multi-Position Recliner
Here is a recliner with a modern design that fits contemporary spaces. Thanks to the leather upholstery, you can use it in your home, but also in the office. You can choose between multiple colors to fit the rest of the decor.
The assembly process is simple because the instructions provided are as clear as they could be. Apart from the chair, you will receive a matching ottoman for maximum comfort. The integrated headrest and the adjustable recline angle to 135 degrees should help you to find the best angle easily. You can use the lever on the chair to switch between positions, which are quite convenient.
Although the manufacturer included some padding, the ottoman seems to lack additional cushioning. However, you might consider using a pillow to resolve this. Overall, the chair is light, and it comes with a swiveling base for added convenience.
Read more: Flash Furniture Multi-Position Recliner Review
4. JUMMICO Fabric Recliner Chair
The manufacturer used high-quality fabric, and they pinpoint the chair is perfect for home theaters. The dominating color in both available designs is grey, and neutral appearance will fit into the aesthetics of any room.
The fabric is breathable, and cushioning is generous. The seating area measures 19.8 x 20.5 inches, but its overall size might make it unsuitable for very tall people. On the other hand, children and shorter people will find this product comfortable, especially if they are fans of fabric material.
The armrests feature a curved ergonomic design, and the footrest is adjustable, too. The chair has plastic feet to avoid damaging the surface below it. The steel frame secures the necessary stability, although the chair is not heavy.
Overall, this is an entry-level chair available at an affordable price. Its durability might not compare to premium units, but it can secure the necessary comfort when you need to take a break.
5. Homall Single Recliner Chair
Homall used PU leather to design this chair and ensure that it looks classy. If you are a fan of the classic leather finish, you can choose between brown, black, beige, and gray colors to fit your preference. The material is also easy to clean, which makes the maintenance process convenient.
The product features thick cushioning throughout the entire chair. The footrests are double-padded for additional comfort, but headrest could use some additional cushioning. Fortunately, you can resolve this by adding a pillow.
The seat dimensions are rather generous as the seating area is 19.7 x 22.1 inches. The assembly process is straightforward, and you can do everything yourself. The plastic feet located at the bottom protect your floors, and ensure that the chair doesn’t leave markings on the surface. The product is light, and you can move it around easily, but it does provide decent stability.
6. FDW Leather Single Modern sofa
Although FDW advertises this unit as a leather recliner, you should note that this is faux leather. However, that should become clear once you see the price. At that cost range, the product is a true bargain deal as it provides the optimal balance of style and functionality.
You can choose between no less than seven color combinations, including black, grey, blue, brown, orange, fabric beige, and red. The assembly process doesn’t take more than several minutes. The chair is light as it weighs only 59 pounds, but it offers decent stability and bearing capacity of 275 pounds.
The seating area is approximately 19 x 20 inches, and the reclining back can go all the way back to 180 degrees. Combined with a dual-function foot extension, it secures optimal comfort in different positions. Overall, the chair might not last for decades, but it could be a smart investment, especially if you are looking for classy units at affordable prices.
Recliner Chair Buying Guide
Recliners are chairs designed for maximum comfort, which puts functionality as your primary concern during the purchasing process. However, that doesn’t mean you should neglect aesthetics and other features. Here is a set of questions that you should ask when picking a recliner.
Top 7 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Recliner Chair
When selecting a chair, it is important to set aside enough time to ensure you picked the right one. Take a look at the following questions to help you with your choice.
How Much Room Do You Have Available?
You are aware that recliner chairs were given that name because you can extend them to a certain angle. That is why it is essential to make sure there is enough space for the product in the room.
Start by picking a position where you want to place the chair. Now, take a look at the measurements of the recliner that you selected. The important thing is to check the dimensions of the chair when it is fully reclined.
Once you have both dimensions of the chair and the area ready, compare them. Can you fit the chair into the designated space, and have enough room for adjustability? Depending on the unit, you will need a couple of feet from the wall to fit the chair, which is another thing to consider.
How Big Is Your Ideal Recliner Chair?
Recliners come in various sizes, which is why you should pick them based on your height and weight. The first thing to consider is the bearing capacity. In most cases, it will be at least 250 pounds. Check the weight capacity to make sure that the chair can hold you to optimize its durability and your comfort.
Now, let’s move on to the size of the chair. The critical thing to ensure is that your feet can touch the ground when you are sitting in the recliner. That way, you will minimize pressure on your knees and back.
Next, you should ensure that you can reach the headrest with your head. Finally, experts recommend leaving no more than five inches between the leg rest and the seat.
Most manufacturers offer their recliners in various sizes. If you are shorter than 5’4,” go for a small recliner. An average-sized recliner will fit people from 5’5” to 6’2,” and large recliners are designed for very tall people.
Is Your Recliner Sturdy?
Your next consideration is the sturdiness of the chair. That can be vital for two reasons – durability and stability. For starters, you want your recliner to last as long as possible. It is why you should choose high-quality materials, such as a durable metal base and comfortable cushioning, not prone to compressing. Apart from the metal frame, heavy screws are an important addition as they increase sturdiness and durability.
A chair made of top-quality materials will also prevent any accidents, such as tipping it over while sitting. It will maintain stability and keep its position at all times.
What Types of Recliners Are Available?
We will discuss some important differences later, but for now, here is the list of recliner types available on the market:
- Standard recliners – these have multiple available positions. The price varies depending on the number of positions and other additional features.
- High-leg recliners – these products are ideal for those who are looking to add a stylish chair to their home or office. Whether it is contemporary or traditional, you will find a product that fits your needs. These recliners do not have a visible adjustment lever, which also contributes to their aesthetics.
- Lift recliners – these are interesting recliners because they also use a lifting mechanism to raise you to a standing position.
Apart from these, you should also consider home and office chairs, as well as fabrics used for the recliner.
What Materials Were Used for the Chair?
Recliners can be made of different materials, including real and faux leather, microfiber, cotton, and other fabrics.
If you are looking for a chair to fit your office, leather is a logical choice. Those looking for affordable deals will look for PU and other types of faux leather. But if you are ready to splash your cash on a premium recliner, real leather will secure even better durability and breathability. You can check out our guide on the best ergonomic office chair to find a suitable product.On the other hand, natural fabrics might be a great choice for a chair to use at home. Cotton and similar materials ensure optimal comfort, even when you are sitting for hours. You can also choose microfiber and other synthetic materials, but be sure you will receive optimal comfort.
Which Features Should Your Chair Have?
If you check out our reviews, you will find that recliners might significantly vary in features. Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting things to look for in these chairs:
- A 360-degree swivel base – if you find a recliner with a swivel base, you can turn the chair in any direction you want while sitting.
- Massage – this function is quite convenient if you are dealing with back pain. At a single press of a button, you can activate this feature and have the chair massage you and relax your muscles.
- Wall hugger – if you are having space problems, chairs that are known as “wall huggers” might help. These allow you to save several inches and are a great choice for small apartments and tight spaces.
- 180-degree recline – these chairs convert into a bed-like position because you can lower them down to lay flat.
- USB ports – do you need to charge your phone, but don’t feel like getting up from your recliner? Integrated USB ports are a convenient feature that tech lovers will appreciate.
Do You Need an Ottoman?
Recliners usually come with an integrated footrest. However, some manufacturers go with an alternative in the form of a chair + ottoman set. That means you will receive a separate item that you will use as a footrest.
An ottoman will give you additional freedom to ensure that you found an optimal position to rest. You can move it closer or farther from your chair. However, make sure that the footrest is stable enough so that you don’t knock it over easily. That can also be important if you have children or pets around.
Manual VS Power Recliner
Since we are living in a modern era, it is only natural that you can find recliners with high-tech features. An essential feature that revolutionized the industry over the last couple of decades is a power recliner. It enables you to adjust the position of the chair by pressing a button and activating the motor.
It is interesting to note that manual recliners are still very popular. Many users love using a lever to find their favorite position. The question is, which is the better fit for you? Here is what our analysis has to say.
Price
The crucial difference between these two recliner types is their price. It depends on the unit, but manual chairs are more affordable than their electric-powered counterparts. The logic is simple – the manufacturers didn’t have to include any motors, which is why the cost can be lower.
Versatility
The number of adjustments depends on the chair. That means you can find manual recliners with a huge number of adjustable positions, and power recliners with only several adjustments available. It is why you should read the product description and find a chair that suits your needs.
Positioning
The location of the recliner will depend on the available space in the designated room. In theory, you can place a manual chair anywhere, but a power recliner depends on electricity. That means you will need a power source nearby so that you can activate the motor.
Maintenance
Power recliners require additional maintenance because of their electrical parts. These components should be protected from damage and cleaned regularly. Otherwise, you might face their failure, which can compromise your comfort.
Manual recliners do not need extra maintenance, but you are still required to take care of the chair. That includes cleaning it from stains regularly and doing other necessary steps mentioned in the instructions for your product.
Ultimately, it is impossible to say which recliner is better for you. Traditionalists love manual chairs and believe that levers are the best way to adjust it. Tech lovers appreciate the motor and the adjustment automation that comes with it. Additionally, a power recliner might be great for those who have reasons not to use a lever.
The Difference Between Gliders and Rockers
Your recliner might feature rocking or gliding mechanisms. You could say that rockers are traditional chairs that have been around for a long time. If you need a chair for your wood cabin, or you want to keep everything traditional, this recliner type is perfect for you.
Gliders are a new mechanism used in recliner chairs, but they have been around for a while, too. If you observe a glider, you will notice a chair that has cushions that go over a wooden frame. Here is an overview of both types and the differences that could help you choose.
Construction Quality
If you choose a rocker, you will receive a chair with a couple or arced legs. On the other hand, a glider utilizes a mechanism placed on the base. That mechanism uses sliding movements to adjust the chair.
If you are a fan of simple construction, you should go with rockers. They are usually portable and light, which makes them easy for moving around. Rocking chairs should be very stable, and the risk of tipping over is virtually non-existent.
Gliders present a sophisticated construction as they also include padding and cushions for the seat and back. They are easy to adjust and reliable, which means they should last for a long time. A potential downside is that pets and small children might get their fingers stuck in the mechanism if you don’t pay attention.
How Do They Move?
A gliding chair moves horizontally, and it goes back and forth to slide from one position to another. Unlike that, rockers sway when changing positions. Users describe that you will feel any movements more if you are using a rocker. On the other hand, gliders should be gentle, and you shouldn’t even feel them moving. Additionally, gliding chairs also have a 360-degree swivel base that allows you to move to any desired direction.
Which Is More Comfortable?
It is hard to say, as it depends on the unit and the person’s preferences. However, it seems that gliders are the favorite of most users. That is because they are equipped with cushioning, and springs might boost comfort additionally.
As for rockers, they might not come with cushioning. However, you can buy accessories to improve comfort if you feel that is necessary. That is why comfort primarily depends on the chair’s compatibility with your needs and expectations.
Why Is Reclined Sitting Better for Your Health?
Did you know that 80% of the American population experienced back issues at least once in their lives? It is the primary cause of absence from work. If you don’t work on resolving the problem, it might become chronic and compromise your overall quality of life.
Reclined sitting might play a crucial role in solving the issue of feeling uncomfortable in your chair. Manufacturers usually ensure that their recliners come with an ergonomic design. Here is why that can play a vital role in maintaining optimal health.
You Will Feel Like You Are Standing
If you are sitting in a recliner, the position you are in is similar to standing. The question is why that makes a difference. The answer lies in the fact that the standing position is the best for your back. Sitting in classic chairs can burden your spine, muscles, joints, etc. Recliners can reduce this pressure, which provides relief.
The experts recommend upright and standing postures as preferred postures for those experiencing back pain. That is because your spine doesn’t feel pressurized, which is something that happens if you are sitting in a chair for hours. And long-term sitting is not unusual for gamers and office workers.
The problem with inadequate posture is that you might not notice each damage right away. The more you sit in a bad posture, the more pressure your spine takes. That can lead to discs wearing and tearing, which can cause various health problems.
You Will Feel Less Fatigued
According to experts, the ideal sitting angle for your back is anywhere between 95 and 115 degrees. Apart from that, lumbar support also plays a major role in decreasing the burden on back muscles when sitting. That is why recliners come with a backrest and generous cushioning. Its goal is to secure the necessary support and decrease muscle activity. Thanks to that, you will feel less fatigued and strained, especially in the back area.
The calculated angle range (95 to 115 degrees) should particularly be followed if you are an office worker. If it is leisure time, you might enjoy other angles, too. But if you are working for hours and spending a long time in the chair, you want the best possible angle.
Minimize Spine Pressure
The scientists discovered a connection between herniated disc and back pain and prolonged sitting decades ago. If you experience back pain, or you are dealing with a herniated disc, it is important to use a comfortable chair at a suitable recline angle.
Apart from the right angle, you also need to receive adequate back support. A supported posture is essential to relieve pressure on discs and muscles.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Recliner Chair?
Now that you know why reclined sitting can promote your overall health let’s take a look at why recliner chairs are a smart investment. Here is an overview of the benefits that these chairs have for specific purposes.
Benefits of Recliners for Back Pain
Back pain and comfort are the most common reasons why people decide to purchase a recliner. Whether your back pain is acute or chronic, these chairs can assist in experiencing relief. You learned how to find the ideal recliner for your preference in the buying guide.
Here is a list of how an amazing recliner chair can help to provide pain relief.
- It provides support that promotes comfort and ensures you feel relaxed
- Designed in a special way to minimize pain by optimizing comfort and support
- A specific design that minimizes muscle strain, stiffness, and tension
- These chairs also help with headaches and neck pain by providing an optimal headrest
- Recliners offer a wide range of adjustments to suit everyone’s preference
- If you find a chair with a massage function, you can promote blood flow and reduce back pain further
- Recliners are suitable for breastfeeding women
Benefits of Nursery Recliners for Breastfeeding Women
Apart from standard recliner chairs, there are also specialized nursery recliners. The industry developed this type for women who are breastfeeding. These chairs can provide the necessary comfort for you and the baby, as well as be a spot for intimacy and bonding during the breastfeeding process.
Multiple Adjustments Available
Whether your stitches haven’t healed yet, or you had a caesarian, you probably find yourself uncomfortable to switch positions, get up, and sit in chairs. Some recliners come with a function that helps you when getting up from the chair. Additionally, nursery recliners usually have multiple adjustments available. Thanks to that, it is easy to find a position that suits your preference. Whether you feel better when sitting upright, or you prefer a reclined angle, these products will meet your needs.
Minimize Neck and Back Aches
If you are breastfeeding, you are probably spending a long time sitting in a single position. That is a frequent cause of aches, especially in your back and neck. However, recliners come with an ergonomic design. Thanks to that, it allows finding a suitable position easily. Whether you will only spend several minutes or hours in the chair, a recliner will provide the necessary comfort and support. The experts recommend various positions for breastfeeding. Recliners can accommodate your needs for the saddle and cradle hold, as well as laid-back positions. That gives you plenty of room to experiment with the position that suits you the most.
Your Personal Spot
Breastfeeding is an intimate process, and you need some privacy. That way, you and your baby can use that time to bond, which will strengthen your connection further. You can place a recliner in any room of the house and create a private corner for you and your baby. If you find a chair with extra pockets, you can use them to store accessories and anything else you might need during the process. Folding chair are easy to move whenever you need privacy. They are also quite comfortable, especially if you choose one from our folding chair reviews.
Benefits of Sleeping in Your Recliner
Have you ever nodded off in your chair? Recliners are a perfect place for both napping and sleeping. Here is why:
– It promotes blood flow
– It helps to experience back pain relief
– It allows you to breathe easier
– It helps you to relax
– It promotes digestion
Promoted Blood Flow
You come back tired from work, and your initial instinct tells you to lie down and put your feet up. That doesn’t come by accident because your body is looking to experience relief because you spend an entire day sitting or standing, which resulted in blood going to your feet and legs.
The idea is to minimize lower body stress, as well as potential inflammations caused by it, by raising your feet above the level of your heart. That is where recliners come into play because they enable that. Sitting in these positions will promote blood flow and minimize back pain.Great for Your Back
Whether you are an office or construction worker, you put a lot of stress on your back during the day. If you are working on your computer, you can check out our buying guide of office chairs for back pain. The secret is in getting a chair with adequate lumbar support, backrest, and recline angle that suits your needs.
A recliner can reduce spine and muscle pressure by allowing you to sit at an angle that minimizes stress put on your back when sitting. If you sleep in your recliner, you can lift your feet and allow gravity to do its job. That way, you will relax lower backpressure, and rest your muscles for the next day.Comfortable Breathing
Are you dealing with sleep apnea that wakes you up in the middle of the night? Do you have frequent problems with acid reflux or heartburn? Or you are snoring, and you would like that to stop?
If you choose to sleep in your recliner, your diaphragm will open up, which can promote easier breathing. That can be important for all those with gastric and sleeping issues like snoring and sleep apnea.Overall Relaxation
If your muscles feel relaxed and you breathe comfortably, that will contribute to experiencing overall relaxation. Thanks to that, recliners can reduce stress and help you calm down if you are nervous.
The logic is simple – you will sleep and rest better if you are feeling relaxed. That means sleeping in your recliner can ensure that your rest time is spent efficiently, and you feel energized once you wake up.Improved Digestion
While sitting in a recliner, you are maintaining an optimal position for breathing and rest. The pressure on your muscles is virtually non-existent, and you open up your diaphragm. That allows your stomach to work efficiently and process any food that you have eaten before placing yourself in the recliner. It is how recliner chairs can promote digestion, which will also allow you to rest better.
Why Do I Sleep Better in a Recliner Than a Bed?
While beds provide comfort, it takes time to find a product that makes you feel comfortable. It often means experimenting with different mattresses and brands until you find one that meets your needs.
On the other hand, a recliner’s primary priority is your comfort. That is why these products come with head and backrests, as well as generous padding. Apart from an ergonomic design, recliners allow you to get your feet up to promote blood flow and relaxation.
The ideal sleeping position is when your head is a bit higher than your knees and legs. The experts explain it with “zero gravity,” and they recommend it to everyone, especially to those recovering from a surgery or injury, or dealing with a sleep disorder. Zero-gravity positions also promote blood flow, which is important for overall relaxation.
Sleeping in a recliner allows optimal breathing, which is why it can play an essential role in handling sleep apnea and snoring. If you are experiencing breathing issues while sleeping, a recliner might be the right alternative to deal with them.
Best Way to Sleep in a Recliner
Are you having problems sleeping in your bed? Perhaps you would like to try sleeping in your recliner because it is better and healthier?
Before you head to your recliner chair, let’s talk about the best way to sleep in it. Preparing your recliner for sleeping is not the same as when relaxing in it. During relaxation time, you might be in a different position. Perhaps you want through our guide on choosing a lap desk, and you are watching movies on your laptop from the recliner.
What happens when you are ready for sleep? It is crucial to follow these steps to get your recliner ready for spending the entire night in it.
Steps to Get Your Recliner Ready for Sleep
How to Prepare Your Chair
The preparation process doesn’t start with adjusting the recliner. Instead, you should consider getting a blanket because you don’t want to be cold during the night. After you secured a way to stay warm, it is time to adjust the recliner.
The experts suggest lifting your feet as that will help to experience the effectiveness of the recliner. If it is required for comfort, feel free to add a pillow below your feet.
You can also consider putting on compression socks. These will promote blood circulation and prevent potential clotting. It is also important to choose a pillow to place under your head or around your neck. Remember, comfort is your primary priority. If you don’t ensure you are warm and comfortable, you can’t get a good night’s sleep.
Should You Keep the Lights On?
That is an interesting question, and the answer is that it is up to your preference. It would be great if you can keep the room dark, or keep a nightlight in case you have to get up to go to the bathroom.
However, some people are afraid to fall asleep without keeping their light on. If it makes you comfortable, feel free to keep the illumination, but make sure that it stays as discreet as possible.
Additionally, you should turn off your cellphone and other electronics. These might interrupt your sleeping, or prevent you from relaxing. You can also consider wearing earplugs so that noise cannot interrupt you.
How to Position a Recliner for Sleeping
Do you have everything ready, including pajamas and blankets? You can consider having an additional blanket in case the room gets cold during the night.
Positioning a recliner is the easiest thing to do. Get your chair to the maximum possible reclining angle. If you can lie it flat, don’t hesitate to do so. That is the only way to ensure that you can feel similar to sleeping in your bed.
It might take some time getting used to sleeping in your recliner, but you should notice changes in the morning. If you were experiencing neck or back problems, you might notice that they are gone. Those who have been dealing with an injury might find sleeping in a recliner comfortable. That is because it allows them to find a position that minimizes stress on their muscles and body, and helps them to relax without experiencing pain or discomfort.
Remember, it is all about staying comfortable. Make sure that you brushed your teeth, and had the regular bedtime routine, even though you won’t be sleeping in your bed.
FAQs & Answers
Q: My recliner won’t stay reclined. What should I do?
A: The odds are that there is something wrong with the mechanism. If your chair is still within the warranty period, you should contact the manufacturer to send a replacement or resolve the problem in another way. Alternatively, you want to call a recliner expert, but you might have to pay for the repair yourself.
Q: Do power recliners break more often than manual ones?
A: No, there is no rule when it comes to the longevity and durability of your chairs. It highly depends on the manufacturer, materials, and quality of construction.
Power recliners require more maintenance than manual ones because you need to take care of electrical components, too. The motor quality plays a role in the durability of the product since the replacement might be costly. However, motors can be of various quality, and the same thing applies to levers used in manual chairs. The better the quality of the lever, the longer it will last, and that affects the overall durability of the chair.
Q: Should my feet hang in the air when sitting in a recliner?
A: You should always keep your feet on the ground, or on the footrest. If you are in an upright sitting position, you might feel more comfortable keeping them on the ground.
On the other hand, if you are in a reclined position, make sure to place your feet on the footrest. That way, you will minimize pressure on muscles in your lower body. It will maximize their relaxation and prevent strains, especially when you are sitting in the recliner for a long time.
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Wrap Up
Recliners are a relatively new product on the market, although they have been around for a while. As technology progresses, these chairs come with new features and functions that improve comfort and usability. That makes it hard to find the best recliner chair out there, but we hope that our buying guide can help you.
You should never rush a decision that can affect both your comfort and your health. The recliner you purchase should meet your expectations and requirements. That is the only way you can ensure it can help with your problem, or maximize comfort while sitting or sleeping in it.
Once you know what you are looking for, feel free to check out our recliner chair reviews. Our team singled out top-rated products out there to ensure everyone finds something to their preference. Now that you have in-depth knowledge about recliners, it shouldn’t be a problem to find one that meets your needs.