It might have a reputation as the couch potato's favourite pastime, but gaming is far from inactive. While manoeuvring your mouse or controller, watching out for enemies, and focusing for hours, you're always in fight-or-flight mode. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't do it in comfort, or with the right support. Whether you play for leisure or stream full-time, a gaming chair is essential for lengthy sessions.
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to gaming chairs, though. There are ergonomic-style chairs and chairs with additional cozy fixings, such as foot rests. Regardless, it can be hard to find the best gaming chair for your needs. This is where we can help. Gaming Chair Armrest
We understand all too well how important it is to have proper support when putting in a shift at the console or PC — bad posture can cause all kinds of problems over the years. So we’ve put some time into researching the best available gaming chairs for all the dedicated players out there. But first, here's some helpful information.
You've probably invested heavily in your gaming setup, so it makes absolutely no sense to be uncomfortable when you're playing. It doesn't matter how stylish and powerful your PC is if your squatting awkwardly on the edge of a regular desk chair. Comfort is key, so a proper gaming chair is a vital purchase.
The other reason to consider investing in a gaming chair is performance. No, a gaming chair isn't going to immediately turn you into a dominant force, but it will make a difference in the long run. Gaming success can often come down to small margins, so a gaming chair that is comfortable and ergonomic could be the difference between winning and losing.
Before you drop major cash on a gaming chair, there are a few things to consider.
Comfort — This might seem obvious, but having a comfy seat is important. You want to have good posture and be comfortable during your gaming sessions, especially if you’re participating in an online tournament. A gaming chair should provide support without discomfort.
Features — Some gaming chairs come with cool features, including plush neck rests, sections to place your feet, and cup holders for beverages. Consider what a model can do for your digital entertainment needs before making a purchasing decision.
Height and weight — Factor your height and weight when you’re looking for a gaming chair. You don’t want to buy a chair that’s too big or too small for your body proportions. Some chairs even come in alternative sizes, so you can game hard without worrying about breakage or wear-and-tear.
Purpose — How will you use your gaming chair? If you’re only buying a chair for gaming and streaming, look for a chair that offers head, neck, and back support. On the other hand, if a gaming chair will serve as a desk chair, a kitchen seat, and a napping spot, you should opt for a model that’s more recliner-like.
There's always a long list of things to consider when making any sort of major purchase, which can be overwhelming. Keep these things in mind and you should be able to make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a button masher, professional streamer, or part-time Street Fighter, there's a gaming chair out there that can improve your experience. We have looked at everything available to line up a selection of your best options.
These are the best gaming chairs for 2024.
Razer is one of the biggest brands in gaming. It stands to reason that the Razer Iskur gaming chair is tough to beat.
It provides total lower back support with a built-in, fully adjustable lumbar curve, with multi-layered PVC synthetic leather that's tougher and more durable than standard PU leather. It should be able to withstand even the toughest of gaming sessions every day.
The armrests can be adjusted in four dimensions, and it can support plenty of weight thanks to a hardy combination of body frame, armrests, and wheelbase.
There's also a XL version and Iskur V2 upgrade available. If you're willing to splash the cash, this is one of the very best.
While many gaming chairs opt for faux leather, the Corsair T3 Rush chair uses a soft, breathable fabric. This prevents the chair from retaining too much heat, which ultimately keeps you cool — ideal for anyone who gets irritated by a sweaty, uncomfortable back during all-day competition.
It boasts a padded neck cushion and memory foam lumbar support. The solid steel base and frame will ensure years of durability.
The armrests, height, and recline angle are all adjustable, you can always find something that works for you. You'll be well positioned for long sessions.
The GTPlayer gaming chair comes well recommended because of its sheer value — you get solid construction, adjustable settings, and high-quality materials for just a fraction of the price of competing gaming chairs. Plus, connect to a power source via a USB and the lumbar support pillow provides you with a massage.
It has a strong metal frame, which is built to withstand more weight and wear and tear than competing chairs. The headrest pillow and lumbar cushion are also removable, while a retractable footrest cranks up the comfort levels.
The heavy-duty base and nylon smooth-rolling casters provide greater stability and mobility. And while it's at the budget end of the spectrum, we like the selection of colours — all giving you cool gamer style.
The JL Comfurni gaming chair has a distinctive look (it might be too boldly coloured for some, in fact) and is thickly cushioned for maximum comfort.
Best of all are its many adjustable features, particularly at this price. The height, recline angle, and armrests all adjust. That’s all bolstered by a soft lumbar cushion that provides ergonomic support to reduce lower back pain.
Fancy putting your feet up? No problem. There’s a retractable footrest built into the underside. And this chair reclines so far back you can lay out flat. The curved back is covered in breathable, premium faux leather, which should help to keep you cool throughout lengthy gaming sessions.
Here’s another entry from Corsair: An upgrade of the Corsair T1 Race chair. Comfort is key, of course, but durability is also important for hardcore gamers. And a solid steel construction means this chair should last for years.
The 4D armrests adjust in any direction, while a gas lift adjusts the height. Heavy duty wheels stay firmly in place while you’re gaming, but they’ll also glide effortlessly across the floor when you need to shift position.
The chair is clad in PU leather with automotive detail stitching (living up to the “race” moniker). A padded neck cushion and lumbar support pillow round off the comfort features. An all-round premium option.
Forget the fact it shares its name with a longsuffering Simpsons character, the Millhouse gaming chair is good value for money, with high quality PU leather and thick padding for a decent level of overall comfort.
You can adjust the chair with a height lever, tilt, and upright locking function. And unlike some of the other chairs on this list, you can pick from a competitive range of Millhouse Gaming Chair colours. You can find something stylish that works for your office or gaming room.
At this price you do sacrifice some quality. It’s best suited for new or casual gamers. Expert-level session gamers should find something more specialist.
If you want maximum comfort and quality, there's no substitute for spending a bit of extra money. The Anda Seat Dark Demon Dragon Gaming Chair advertises itself as a premium option and that's exactly what it is — one of the best-rated high-end chairs available.
You'll find all the features you need: Removable support pillows, 4D armrests, and adjustable height and recline — combined with a smooth PVC leather and high-density memory foam. Its steel frame with also hold more weight than other chairs on this list.
Yes, it means parting with some extra cash, but with the sheer quality — and, perhaps more importantly, lifetime guarantee on the steel framework — you'll be ahead of the game.
Joseph joined Mashable as the UK Shopping Editor in 2018. He worked for a number of print publications before making the switch to the glittery world of digital media, and now writes about everything from coffee machines to VPNs.
Desk Chair Gaming Matt Ford is a freelance contributor to Mashable.