Over the past few years, the popularity of gaming chairs has increased not just among gamers or office workers, but every individual who spends a lot of time at their desk. Gaming chairs provide excellent lumbar and back support, which are the best ergonomic features you need in a chair. Simply put, these are ergonomically built armchairs specifically made to meet the special postural and comfort requirements that come with long sessions spent sitting in front of the screen playing games. These chairs, which are available in two different styles, are made for both PC and platform systems. Both PC and platform gaming chairs can have various additional features, such as built-in speakers, massagers, recliners, PU leather upholstery, adjustable headrest, etc.
Given how quickly the gaming armchair market has expanded, it could be a little intimidating to think about all the available models and designs. So, continue reading to learn more about the various gaming chair types and browse through our top recommendations to select the one that best suits your gaming preferences. In this article, we have also given a few tips for buying the best ergonomic gaming chair over a standard one.
Top 5 tips for buying a gaming chair
- While purchasing a gaming chair do not neglect its ergonomics. An ergonomic chair is designed specifically to give your body the best support possible. Hence, you should consider the seat’s position, lumbar support, seat width and depth, and the height of the chair while picking one for you. To provide comfort while sitting for long periods of time, the seat should be well padded. This will benefit your health in the long term.
- Do not compromise on the quality of your product. The overall quality of the chair will determine not just your comfort level, but also the chair’s durability. Therefore, the materials used in its manufacturing are a crucial factor. For instance, using a strong metal frame will give the chair definition as well as durability.
- Keep in mind that the concept of “one size fits all” might not work with these chairs. Your weight and body type both matter a lot when choosing the right chair for you. Prioritize your comfort and select a seat that is neither too little nor too big for you.
- You should not neglect the proportions. Some chairs have smaller seats, making them unsuitable for wider body types. Check the dimensions before buying; they are usually listed on commercial websites. Remember to measure your available space before purchasing a gaming chair to know the right dimensions.
- We recommend going for gaming chairs with PU leather as this material fits the needs of most people. Some chairs also use microfiber or synthetic webbing as the upholstery. However, PU leather upholstery for gaming chairs is more breathable.
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Types of gaming chairs
PC gaming chair
Image Source: Overstock
PC chairs are one of the most popular and well-known types of gaming armchairs. These chairs are well-built to support a lot of weight. Additionally, they include padded, adjustable armrests made of durable material. You can even change the headrest to suit your taste. They offer extra padding and a bucket-style seat. Moreover, these gaming chairs provide additional lumbar support, height-adjustable armrests, and a built-in massager. Some models even include a reclining option and a small pillow.
Pro Tip: For the fabric of gaming chairs, we suggest opting for PU leather as it’s comfier and more breathable.
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Platform gaming chair
Image Source: Amazon.com
Platform gaming armchairs are one of the most popular options among console gamers. These resemble recliners and are typically placed on the floor, making them suitable for television gaming. Most models have side pockets for game controller storage. In addition, models with headphone jacks and built-in speakers are also available.
Pro Tip: If you are a platform gamer, opt for a gaming chair with a massager and recliner features for maximum comfort.
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Hybrids
Image Source: Costco
The design and cushions of a common hybrid chair are similar to those of recliners, but it is mounted on a swivel base, giving it a more office-like appearance. More advanced hybrids have numerous monitors, built-in sound speakers, and a range of game control options. A chair like this will not fit into everyone’s budget or sense of style, but for the ardent gamer, this is an excellent option.
This reclining chair is functional enough to meet your various demands, with a retractable footrest and an adjustable backrest, making it ideal for working, gaming, or napping.
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Gaming chair vs office chair: Which one you should pick?
Purpose
When you choose a gaming chair over an office chair, you get a more comfortable and enhanced gaming experience for extended hours. Gaming armchairs may include advanced features such as built-in speakers, cupholders, and a control panel linked to the home entertainment system.
Although gaming armchairs are the most comfortable option, office chairs’ best ergonomic support and style can increase productivity. Due to the reduced tension on the body, the user may complete more work with fewer breaks, allowing them to keep their thoughts on track during a busy workday.
Design
An office chair and a gaming chair both can be used to sit comfortably at a desk, but the latter offers an interactive and realistic experience that office chairs cannot provide. This is because office chairs prioritize ergonomic support to increase productivity rather than offering as many features as possible in plush, comfortable gaming recliners. Gaming armchairs have intricate designs, beautiful patterns, and vivid colours that stand out in any space. Unfortunately, these bright colours aren’t usually appreciated in a work environment.
Adjustability
A gaming chair’s primary function is to make the user as comfortable as possible while allowing them to move, tilt, rock, and shift to reach the ideal position for playing their favourite games. Due to this, they typically have a lot of movable components, such as armrests that may be changed in height, width, and depth. Adjustable elements on these chairs include reclining backrests, built-in footrests, height-adjustable bases, and adjustable lumbar supports, to name a few.
Office chairs, on the other hand, are designed to provide support more than comfort. The adjustments are typically limited to those that can help improve your postures, like adjustable lumbar support or a height-adjustable base. These chairs often don’t recline, and the armrests are usually fixed. Office chairs last longer than gaming seats despite having fewer movable elements.
What is the conclusion then? Gaming chairs or ergonomic office chairs?
Based on the aforementioned analysis, draw your own conclusion and select what’s best for you.
If you want to choose an office chair, browse through our selection of the best office chairs available in India, or explore our top recommendations for gaming armchairs below.
10 brilliant gaming chairs to upgrade your setup
Herman Miller Embody
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ERGO Space Gaming Chair
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Durian Hurricane Chair
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CellBell Transformer X-Series Gaming Chair
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Ikea Matchspel
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Humanscale Freedom Headrest
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HP Citadel Omen
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Tomaz Blaze X Pro Chair
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Secretlab Titan Evo
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TheHomeOffice Lazer Pro Chair
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Conclusion
You seek to be comfy while gaming. Naturally, being comfortable requires good posture, which is why a gaming armchair is an ideal purchase. Many gamers are already familiar with the traditional office chair-style gaming armchair. However, there are many more types of gaming seats available that work best in various gaming environments. Your preferred gaming style and platform will have a significant impact on the kind of chair that is right for you. It is, therefore, crucial to invest in a chair that promotes proper posture and, consequently, good health. In addition to being practical, it may also be used to improve a room’s aesthetic appeal.
Before purchasing a gaming armchair, do consider its build quality, proportion, fabric, and ergonomics. There are different types available on the market, such as PC gaming chairs, massager chairs, hybrids, etc. made up of different fabrics like cotton, mesh, or leather. You can opt for the chair of your choice, according to your preferred designs, colours, and dimensions.
So, now that you know the different types and benefits of using gaming armchairs, feel free to browse and pick from the options above to complete your workstation right away!
*The featured image used in this article is from Herman Miller Gaming on Twitter.com
