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.
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.
Do you need a gaming chair?
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.
What makes a good gaming chair?
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.
What is the best gaming chair?
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.
