Almost all high quality gaming chairs offer a number of benefits to consumers, as they continue to sell like hotcakes throughout the world. These chairs also, however, come with their own unique pitfalls, like not using real leather where it is claimed, gimmicky adjustability, and higher prices.
Key Takeaways_
- Gaming chairs have plenty of positives, including high adjustability, superior comfort, and aesthetic variety.
- These chairs also have some unique cons, including an over-reliance on gimmicks and high overall costs.
- Plenty of fake gaming chairs are out there that purport to have been manufactured by a major industry player.
The Cons of Gaming Chairs and Their Unique Problems
As a consumer, there are several things you should know before you go out and purchase a gaming chair. In other words, there are some unique cons inherent to the industry.
Reliance on Gimmicks
Many gaming chair companies tend to rely on gimmicks instead of tried and true seating formulas.
These gimmicks can include RGB-lighted wheels, speakers built into the headrest, and poorly functioning USB hubs affixed to the exterior.
Some models advertise lumbar support but only provide a lumbar pillow instead of an actual built-in lumbar support system.
insider tip
Generally speaking, look for a gaming chair that relies on best ergonomic practices and one that boasts plenty of adjustability options.
Adjustability should also extend to gaming chair arms, which should be able to move in various directions to support your arms and shoulders correctly.
The gimmicks can wait, but your spinal health cannot. Ergonomics-focused chairs and quality office chairs often provide a more ergonomic office chair experience without sacrificing style.
High Cost
Many of the best-reviewed gamer chairs are expensive. And those with special features like massaging and footrests tend to be on the more expensive side, so we may advise waiting for a sale of some kind before committing to a purchase.
Gaming chairs can be sold at a markup because gaming is a unique niche interest and has not captured a broad and diverse market share.
STAT: Most gaming chairs cost between $200 and $400. However, depending on the features you want and the quality, you can find gaming chairs for under $100, or if you want premium build quality and more features, you can find chairs that cost more than $500. (source)
If you are planning on buying a budget-friendly gaming chair, be sure to thoroughly research the item, read reviews, and try it out in person if possible.
Secretlab is known for its quality chairs that fall into a higher price bracket, offering plenty of choices for different weight limits and heights.
Phony Chairs
The gaming chair industry exploded quickly before many industry leaders were able to establish a secure foothold. This is why Amazon and other online retailers have experienced a flood of phony, fake leather gaming chairs that are purporting to be from one of the major brands.
To avoid buying a fake gaming chair, research the online ad listing thoroughly. Most fake chairs will claim to use genuine leather or any other material, but this is not the case; it is usually faux leather.
We also recommend checking out the box it arrives in, as the real manufacturer will typically send a branded box, while a phony will send a blank box.
Breaking In Period
Many gaming chairs need to be broken in for a few weeks before they reach their maximum comfort level. Even though they have amazingly thick chair foam for padding, they do take a while to conform to your shape.
We recommend a couple of hours of daily sitting to allow the cushions to mold around your body before deciding whether to keep the chair.
Understanding how to use a gaming chair headrest can also enhance comfort, as it should be adjusted to support the back of your head and neck properly.
A decent office chair might not have as long of a breaking-in period as bucket seat designs, which sometimes prioritize style over substance.
Ultimately, the choice between a gaming chair and a standard office chair comes down to personal preference, the type of chair, and the design and base of the product.
The vast majority of users seek a balance between aesthetics and ergonomics, making ergonomic chairs a viable option for those looking for a more subdued look.
The Pros of Gaming Chairs
It is not all bad; there are pros to gaming chairs. These chairs are ergonomically designed, with plenty of adjustability options, and are built with comfort in mind.
This makes them perfect for sitting on during long gameplay sessions. Gaming chairs also tend to feature unique visual aesthetics and durable, long-lasting components.
Gaming style chairs often cater to the gaming community with their vibrant designs and racing chair aesthetics, offering a comfortable chair experience with features like lumbar pillows and tilt mechanisms for better posture.
