Topic
Gaming chairs
Gaming chairs use a bucket seat with side bolsters, a tall backrest and often a neck and lumbar cushion. Fit depends on the seat width between the bolsters and the size range the maker gives.
- Common recline
- Up to 165°
- Armrests
- Often 4D
Makers such as Secretlab, Noblechairs and AndaSeat sell the same chair in two or three sizes, each with a recommended height and weight range in cm and kg. Check the usable seat width between the bolsters, not only the overall width.
Many gaming chairs rely on pillows for lumbar and neck support; others build an adjustable lumbar into the backrest. Compare the recline angle, the tilt lock and the armrest type, and look for a class 4 gas lift on heavier-duty models.
Covers are usually PU leather, woven fabric or a hybrid. See mesh or fabric for how they compare on warmth and wear.
Common mistakes
- Ordering the standard size when your height or weight sits at the top of its range.
- Assuming a pillow gives the same support as an adjustable lumbar.
Guides on this topic
- Why do some gaming chairs feel uncomfortable?Why some gaming chairs feel uncomfortable: tight side bolsters, narrow seats, neck pillows in the wrong place and soft foam, plus the sizes to check before buying.Guide
- How to set up a gaming chair for desk useHow to set up a gaming chair: seat height, lumbar and neck pillows, recline lock, arm height and footrest, set in order against the HSE workstation points.How-to
- Herman Miller vs Secretlab for gaming and workHerman Miller task chairs against Secretlab gaming chairs: seat shape, recline, armrests, cover materials and which suits long work days or gaming.Comparison
- Gaming chair wobbly or leaning: causes and fixesWhy is my gaming chair wobbly? Loose backrest bolts, mechanism plates, the gas lift, base and castors, checked in order with simple fixes for each cause.Fix
- Gaming chair vs office chair: which is better for a desk?Gaming chair vs office chair: bucket seats and bolsters against flat task seats, the adjustments each usually has, and which suits work or gaming.Comparison
- How much does a gaming chair cost, and what changes with price?What gaming chairs cost and what each step up in price usually adds: frame, foam, cover, arms, lumbar, mechanism, size options and warranty.Guide
Buying guides on this topic
- Best gaming chairs under £400Six gaming chairs under £400 from Corsair, Genesis, Trust, Anda Seat and Homracer compared on armrests, gas lift class, recline, cover and load rating.Buying guide
- Best gaming chairs for adultsSeven gaming chairs from Razer, Corsair, Anda Seat, Genesis and Arozzi compared on seat width, armrest adjustment, recline, cover material and load rating.Buying guide