What Makes a Chair a Gaming Chair

Lawrence Bonk Profile image

Written By:

Updated February 6, 2023

High-rated gaming chairs are a rapidly growing segment of the chair industry, leading many consumers to wonder exactly what features are aimed toward gamers. Generally speaking, a gaming chair is very similar to an ergonomically designed office chair that has been built for lengthy gameplay sessions. If you are wondering why you should get a gaming chair, remember that these chairs can also be used for any task in which you are sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time.

If you have spent any time looking at gaming chairs, you will know one of the biggest differences between them vs a standard office chair is a unique design, usually looking like a seat from a race car. Another feature that is usually not on standard office chairs is the inclusion of speakers or a USB hub that can help with gaming peripherals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Gaming chairs share some traits with ordinary office chairs, such as adjustment points, though are unique in some ways.
  • Modern gaming chairs tend to arrive in a wide variety of color and design options, with some allowing to be rested right on the floor.
  • Gaming chairs can also include a number of useful add-ons, including integrated speakers and USB hubs.

What is it About a Gaming Chair That Makes it for Gaming?

Gaming chairs ship with a number of unique features that are highly useful when it comes to playing video games, be they on a console or on a PC. So, are gaming chairs worth it? Keep reading to learn more about them and decide if you think they are.

Insider Tip

Gaming chairs tend to boast unique and colorful designs, suiting the aesthetics of a wide variety of gamers.

Built for Long-term Health

These chairs have been purpose-built for long-term spinal health, better posture, and increased overall blood flow. This comes down to just how fully adjustable these gaming chairs are and how much lumbar support they tend to offer. The aforementioned features should please gamers who tend to sit in front of their computers for long periods of time, though the ergonomic components will also be found with many traditional office task chairs.

Unique Designs

Gaming chairs tend to boast unique and colorful designs, suiting the aesthetics of a wide variety of gamers. This uniqueness goes beyond the paint job, however, as there are some design features that are common among most gaming chairs. One of them is that you are able to align your gaming chair’s height with your desk so that you have your computer screen at eye level. These chairs tend to have large bucket seats, a raised waterfall-shaped seat edge, and a winged backrest. Though, it must be noted that not every gaming chair shares these features, as many newer models are difficult to distinguish from modern ergonomic office chairs. You can get these chairs in a variety of materials as well, so be sure to choose the best material for your gaming chair. Some gaming chairs are even designed to be placed on the floor, as they contain no legs or base whatsoever. If you are curious about this style of chair, be sure to check out the best console gaming chairs.

STAT: Overall video game spending in the United States hit a 10-year peak in June, according to a report from the NPD Group, a market research firm. (source)

Speakers, USB Hubs, and More

Some gaming chairs ship with accessories and add-ons that have been purpose-built to suit the needs of gamers. These include built-in speakers surrounding the headrest, USB port hubs along the exterior, mechanized systems that rock and vibrate with gameplay, and more. Some gaming chairs are also designed exclusively for particular game genres, such as racing chairs, FPS chairs, and flight sim chairs. Generally speaking, the add-ons included with gaming chairs, such as integrated speakers, are on the weaker side. For instance, the built-in speakers could be small and tinny, offering minimal surround sound capabilities. In other words, read the fine print before making a purchase. Additionally, with these added features, when your chair is ready to be replaced you may have to dispose of it differently than a regular chair. Don’t worry, you can check out how to dispose of a gaming chair with speakers to learn more about this.

Warning

Generally speaking, the add-ons included with gaming chairs, such as integrated speakers, are on the weaker side.

F.A.Q.

Are gaming chairs worth it?

We like to think so. Gaming chairs can add a bit of visual flair to your recreation room while achieving a number of healthful benefits.


Are gaming chairs ergonomic?

Most gaming chairs feature a number of ergonomically focused design points, including a wide range of adjustment options.


Should I buy a cheap gaming chair?

You can purchase a budget-friendly gaming chair, but we recommend that you try to buy one from a reputable manufacturer.



Lawrence Bonk Profile image