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Quick Answer
The 6-height plastic footrest wins on adjustability, durability, and price. The foam footrest wins on softness and feel for bare feet. Pick based on whether you sit at your desk in shoes or socks.
At a Glance
| 6-Height Plastic | Foam Footrest | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Plastic + rubber | Memory foam |
| Heights | 6 | 3 |
| Price | $21.99 | $25.99 |
| Massage surface | Yes | No |
| Washable cover | No | Yes |
| Durability | Years | 2-3 years |
Adjustability
Winner: 6-Height. Six positions vs. three. The plastic version’s discrete tilt mechanism gives you more precise height control, especially if you’re between standard chair sizes.
Comfort
Winner: Foam. Memory foam is softer, period. Bare feet, socks, or thin slippers — foam is the right choice. The plastic with massage nubs is fine in shoes but not as kind to bare skin.
Durability
Winner: 6-Height. Plastic doesn’t compress, doesn’t get gross, doesn’t change shape. Foam will compress over years of daily use. If you want set-and-forget for a decade, plastic is the move.
Cleanability
Winner: Foam. Removable washable cover. The plastic version wipes down with a cloth but doesn’t get the deep clean a fabric cover delivers.
Price
Winner: 6-Height. $21.99 vs $25.99. Four bucks isn’t a lot, but combined with everything else the plastic version brings (more heights, more durability), it’s the value pick.
Use Case Breakdown
Get the 6-Height if: You’re at your desk in shoes most of the time. You want maximum height flexibility. You want the most durable option. You like the idea of a massage surface.
Get the Foam if: You hang out at your desk in bare feet or socks. Softness matters more than durability. You want a washable cover.
Verdict
The 6-Height plastic footrest is the better default — more adjustability, more durability, lower price. Step up to the foam version only if you specifically want soft over firm. Full lineup in our best computer footrest guide.
