Gaming Chairs – Are They Worth The Investment?

As PC gaming continues to gain popularity, gamers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of comfort during long gaming sessions. The standard advice is to get up and walk away from your desk at regular intervals but that’s not always an option if you’re in the middle of a fierce multiplayer match.

Cost Of Gaming Chairs

One of the biggest concerns for gamers considering a gaming chair is the cost. Gaming chairs can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on the brand, features, and materials.

The old saying of ‘you get what you pay for’ rings true for PC gaming chairs, so don’t be tempted to dive in at the cheap end of the market if you can help it. A sub $100 gaming chair may seem like a great deal but you’ll be treated to thin and cheap materials, less padding, and a flimsier base.

While this may seem expensive, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits that a quality gaming chair can provide. What’s the point in spending loads on a gaming mouse or a wireless headset and then have no money left for something that could save you from chronic back pain?

Gaming Chairs Benefit Health and Posture

The main benefit of a gaming chair is the improvement it can make to your posture and overall health. Poor posture can cause a range of health issues, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. A gaming chair is designed to provide support where it’s needed most, with features like adjustable lumbar support, headrests, and armrests that can be customized to suit your individual needs.

A good gaming chair can also help to reduce the risk of common gaming-related injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injury. This is because gaming chairs are designed to support your body in a natural position, rather than forcing you into awkward or uncomfortable positions that can cause strain or injury over time.

Key Features Of A Gaming Chair

There are a number of features to look for in a gaming chair and the most important is that it’s height adjustable. It’s vital for your posture that you sit with your feet comfortably flat on the floor, with a 90 degree bend at the knees. Adjusting the height of the base cushion to achieve that position is vital.

A reclining back is also important, but maybe not in the way you think. It’s important to keep an upright posture and if you get a chair with a fixed back you may find you’re sat in a sightly reclined position, pulling your arms away from your keyboard.

Next, you want arm rests. Not just any arm rests, you want height adjustable arm rests so that you can give your elbows support.

Lumbar support is a nice feature to have, especially if it’s adjustable, although you can find separate lumbar supports to fit yourself.

Finally, look for the weight rating of the chair. You might be lucky enough to only weigh 60kgs but if the chair is rated to 120kg you know it’s going to have some strength to spare when you start jumping about in an intense firefight. The bigger the weight rating the better, and try to make sure you’re getting a sturdy steel frame instead of plastic.

Gaming Chairs vs Office Chairs

There’s no escaping the fact that you need a chair for your desk but why pay loads for a gaming chair when an office chair might offer the same for less. Well, it’s a fair question, but the same rules apply to picking an office chair. You need adjustability and quality if you’re going to be spending a lot of time sitting on it, so you’re going to be spending quite a few $ on a decent office chair.

Trouble is, office chairs just look a bit … office-y. Boring. Not much to look at on a video stream. Why not up the budget and get a gaming chair with some color and even some artwork?

Top Gaming Chair Brands

There are many brands of gaming chairs available on the market, but not all are created equal. To help you find the right gaming chair for your needs, we’ve researched some of the most highly reviewed brands of gaming chairs:

1. Secretlab – Secretlab is a popular brand of gaming chairs that is known for its high-quality materials and ergonomic design. Their chairs feature adjustable lumbar support, 4D armrests, and multi-tilt mechanisms that allow for maximum customization and comfort. They also offer a range of stylish designs and colors to suit any gamer’s taste.
2. Herman Miller – While not specifically marketed as gaming chairs, Herman Miller’s office chairs are highly regarded for their ergonomic design and superior comfort. Their Aeron chair, in particular, is a favorite among gamers for its adjustable lumbar support, breathable mesh material, and customizable features.
3. DXRacer – DXRacer is a well-known brand of gaming chairs that is designed with comfort and style in mind. Their chairs feature adjustable armrests, lumbar support, and high-density foam padding for maximum comfort during long gaming sessions. They also offer a wide range of colors and designs to suit any gamer’s preferences.
4. Noblechairs – Noblechairs is a German brand that specializes in high-end gaming chairs that are built to last. Their chairs feature premium materials like real leather and top-quality foam padding, as well as customizable lumbar support and armrests. They also offer a range of stylish designs to suit any gaming setup.

TL;DR

Gaming chairs can be a worthwhile investment for PC gamers who prioritize comfort and health during long gaming sessions. While the cost may be a concern for some, the long-term benefits to posture and overall health make it a worthwhile investment for many gamers. When considering a gaming chair, it’s important to research different brands and models to find the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. Avoid the cheapest models and spend what you can comfortably afford and you should be rewarded with comfort for a long time to come.