23 Best Gaming Chairs for 2022 (and Other Seated Activities)

Why do we gamers need the best gaming chair we can afford?

For the sake of our backs, necks, and buttocks, of course.

Video games — once a pastime for the unpopular — have in recent years become as valid and respectable as film, books and television. As the quality of games has increased, the gaming community has grown, which has allowed the industry to further invest in the quality of its products. In 2019, the video game industry was worth more than music and movie industries combined.

Many of us spend long hours with Minecraft, Overwatch, and Super Smash Bros. Some of us prefer keyboard and mouse gameplay, while others swear by their favourite console. Not to mention those of us whose jobs require near constant time at a desk and consequently in a chair.

I, personally, tick all those boxes.  

That’s why I won’t make sacrifices when it comes to comfort, posture, efficiency, and quick-reflex gaming. And, if you can relate to any of the above, neither should you.

So, what is the best gaming chair?

Well, what I consider important in a gaming throne may not be a priority for you. So, I consulted pro video game players, office workers, artists and expert reviews to compile this ultimate gaming chair list. So that you can find the perfect home for your glutes. 

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top Gaming Chairs – At a Glance

1. Best Ergonomic Gaming Chair – AKRacing Masters Series Premium Gaming Chair
2. Best Pedestal Chair – X Rocker SE 2.1 Pedestal Gaming Chair
3. High Quality Fabric Gaming Chair – Arozzi Vernazza Soft Fabric Gaming Chair
4. Most Apocalyptic Gaming Chair – Noblechairs Hero: Fallout Vaulttec Edition—
5. Best Office Chair for Gaming – NOUHAUS Ergo3D Ergonomic Office Chair
6. Ideal Gaming Chair for Kids – Amazon Basics Kids/Youth Gaming Recliner
7. Best PC Chair – BestOffice Massaging PC Gaming Chair
8. Great Designed-to-be-Cheap Gaming Chair – Seating Plus Video Gaming Chair
9. Pro Gaming Chair with Extendable Footrest – OMEGA-Xi Gaming Chair, RESPAWN by OFM
10. Best Gaming Chair for Xbox One – Openwheeler GEN2 Racing/Flight Simulator—
11. Best Ps4 Gaming Chair for Cockpit Simulation – Playseat Challenge Racing Video Game Chair
12. Best Budget Gaming Chair – Malu Luxury Padded Floor Chair with Back Support
13. Best Gaming Chair for the Money – X Rocker 5172601 Surge Bluetooth 2.1 Sound Gaming Chair
14. Most Stylish Memory Foam Gaming Chair – La-Z-Boy Bellamy Executive Office Chair
15. Sturdiest Big and Tall Gaming Chair – AK Racing EX-Wide Gaming Chair
16. Best Affordable Gaming Chair – Sofa Sack Memory Foam Bean Bag Chair with Microsuede Cover
17. Supreme Console Gaming Chair – X Rocker Pro 51259 H3 4.1 Audio Gaming Chair
18. Most Comfortable Gaming Chair – Big Joe Lenox Fuf Foam Filled Bean Bag
19. Best Racing Chair – Next Level Racing Challenger Simulator Cockpit
20. Best Chair for Gaming with Your Feet Up – RESPAWN-900 Racing Style Gaming Recliner
21. Best Floor Level Gaming Chair – MERITLINE Swivel Video Rocker Gaming Chair
22. Coziest Mesh Gaming Chair – Bonzy Home Reclining Office Chair

Best Gaming Chairs

There are a mixture of different styles of gaming chair, feel free to consult my buyer’s guide to help you decide what kind of chair will suit your needs.

1. AKRacing Masters Series Premium Gaming Chair – Pro’s Choice Gaming Chair

Style: PC racing style gaming chair

Material: Premium PU leather; Steel frame

Top Features: 4D adjustable armrests; 180-degree recline; High tensile strength molded aluminum base; Class 4 gaslift

AKRacing is a gaming chair brand that began making chairs for actual race cars in 2001, meaning these are some of the best computer chairs for long hours and are often the pro’s choice.

The materials used to make this incredible chair are top-notch, with an all-steel frame, dense cold-cured foam, anti-corrosion paint, class-4 gaslift, and an Advanced High Tensile Strength Molded Aluminum Base. The chair can withstand up to 330lbs, making it one of the strongest gaming chairs.

Its 4D adjustable armrests can be moved up and down, back and forth, rotated side to side and slide in and out.

The ergonomics on this chair are superb, and pretty much every body size will feel like this reclining gaming chair was designed for them.

2. X Rocker SE 2.1 Pedestal Gaming Chair – Easiest to Get Out Of Console Chair

Style: Pedestal console chair

Material: Faux Leather

Top features: Surround sound speakers; Multi-chair connectors; Foldable

This nice gaming chair from X Rocker brings you the comfort of a console gaming chair with the maneuverability of a PC gaming chair thanks to its low, sturdy stand.

This expensive gaming chair is well worth the price. It comes with immersive surround sound speakers and a subwoofer for added punch. When you’re sitting in the chair, you are immersed in your game/movie and can hear very little else.

There are a bunch of connectivity options and a wireless transmitter (which does require batteries). You can even connect to other X rocker chairs for multi-person gaming sessions.

Be warned that it’s worth checking to see if you have the right cables to connect your device, as it’s not always clear with gaming chairs that have integrated speakers. Nothing a quick google won’t solve.

This durable and comfortable chair is great for anyone looking for a rocking gaming chair with a bit more height and swivel functions.

3. Arozzi Vernazza Soft Fabric Gaming Chair – Most Modest Style Gaming Chair

Style: PC gaming chair; Big and tall

Material: Molded foam; Fabric upholstery; Steel frame

Top Features: Soft, durable and breathable fabric; Solid metallic frame; 4D adjustable armrests

Comfort is the name of the game with Arozzi’s high-end gaming chair. You can spend hours working or gaming and not even think about the chair you’re sitting in — unless you’re under 5’7”. Then this chair may be a bit on the large side for you.

Shorter gamers have mentioned that the lumbar support is a little thick and their knees don’t quite reach the edge of the seat. 

So, unless you like to game with a footstool, I’d try something else.

For larger gamers and those who like a bit of extra space, this is a great choice that stands out even in grey due to it’s grand build. And with 165° recline, smooth rocking function and wheel that glide — you’re in for a treat.

4. Noblechairs Hero: Fallout Vaulttec Edition – Pipboy’s Choice

Style: Racer gaming chair

Material: PU leather; Steel Frame; Aluminum Base

Top Features: Fallout-inspired aesthetics; Large 4D adjustable armrests; Integrated adjustable lumbar support

Fallout is one of the most highly regarded video game franchises ever created (although it has had its hiccups — 76 hiccups, one could say). And now its iconic style has combined with Noblechairs’ iconic HERO design.

The HERO design brings comfort to a new level. Its integrated lumbar support can be customised to every user, whether they’re playing Fallout or not. And their memory foam headrests are perfect for lounge gaming.

Some users have claimed the locking systems are not as secure as other chairs, but I didn’t find any issues. The very slight movement of each adjustable armrest seemed to make the chair feel less rigid during gaming. Everything about the chair’s movement feels solid, smooth, and deliberate.

The cold foam padding hugs you and the materials that surround it are sublime.

Of course the HERO comes in a variety of designs, but the Fallout style has to be my favorite and a great choice for any Fallout fan who loves to relax in style.

5. NOUHAUS Ergo3D Ergonomic Office Chair – Maximum Comfort for All Day Sitting

Style: Office chair

Material: Mesh; Iron base

Top Features: 3D adjustable arms rests and lumbar support; Breathable ergonomic design; Blade wheels; 135-degree tilt

Nouhaus have delivered an amazing office chair that works great for gaming. Bring your armrests forward and work away. And when you’re done, lean back into the headrest, grab a controller, and you’re ready for gaming. With this chair, there is no gaming chair vs office chair; they are the same thing

I can recommend this as one of the best gaming chairs for back pain, as Nouhaus have included some of the best lumbar support that hugs your back in every position.

You get a spare set of Nouhaus’s awesome gliding wheels, which makes you think you’ll need them. However, my dad has been gliding around on this chair for nearly a year and has donated his spare wheels to his wife. So, no issues there.

This is a cool gaming chair, boasting top-quality mesh rather than synthetic leather and it  doesn’t leave you with uncomfortable diamond imprints on your skin. A smart choice for anyone who struggles with back pain after sitting for long periods.

6. SecretLab Omega 2020 series – Best Esports Designs

Style: PC gaming chair

Material: PU leather; Softweave fabric; Leather

Top Features: Choice of materials; 4D armrests; Multi-tilt mechanism

Secretlab have knocked it out of the park with their Omega gaming chair. Everything here screams quality.

Whether you go for PU leather, softweave fabric or their luxurious NABA leather option, you will experience the cool, comfortable, and durable feel of well-made upholstery.

Underneath said upholstery is patent-pending cold-cured foam that SecretLab have developed. Soft and firm at the same time. So comfortable that you’ll barely notice. And when you do, you’ll say to yourself, “Wow, this chair feels like I’m sitting on a cloud.”

The 4D armrests move incredibly smoothly and lock firmly, and with a choice of sizes to choose from, whatever height or weight you are there is probably an option for you.

One cool thing about this chair is how safe it feels to recline. Many chairs will give you that falling feeling when reclining too far back. The Omega does not and you will have no problems kicking back for a little nap.

The chair can be customized with a huge range of designs, my personal favorite is their Batman chair. Every chair also comes with memory foam cushions for your head and lumbar support.

There’s a reason that this chair is the most popular Secretlab gaming chair for 2022. Be warned however that it is tough to put together, so enlist a friend and then don’t let them sit in it because you will want it all for yourself.

7. BestOffice Massaging PC Gaming Chair – Amazing Massaging Lumbar Pillow

Style: PC gaming chair

Material: PU leather; Nylon frame

Top Features: Massage lumbar cushion; High backrest; Tilt back and forth

One of the best PC gaming chairs under 100 dollars, and it includes a massage pillow. The pillow is designed to reduce fatigue during long sitting sessions. I’ve tried it and the mild vibrations do help, but I can imagine it being bothersome for some — but I expect you’d know if that kind of thing would annoy you. And if you don’t, you can just turn it off and you’ve got complete adequate lumbar support.

It has a nice ergonomic backrest. The base can support up to 250lbs, it has 360-degree swivel wheels and flip-up armrests. 

A good budget chair that hasn’t shaved any cost on quality design.

8. Seatingplus Video Gaming Chair – Designed to Match Your Xbox

Style: PC gaming chair

Material: Bonded leather; Nylon frame

Top features: Leisure mode; Long padded armrests

Seatingplus have specially designed this to be a budget gaming chair, and it is one of the best cheap gaming chairs available.

This computer gaming chair has all the features you’d expect, giving you that pro-gamer look without breaking the bank.

Of course its materials aren’t top of the line and it has fewer features, but it does boast a ‘leisure’ mode which allows you to recline the entire chair back a few inches. In essence though, this is what I’d consider the bare minimum.

The armrests are long and comfortable, provided you’re the right height for them as they aren’t adjustable. You can, however, adjust the height — which surprisingly many of the most expensive gaming chairs don’t do.

Basically you forgo some of the bells and whistles in exchange for a really reasonable gaming chair price.

9. OMEGA-Xi Gaming Chair, RESPAWN by OFM – Game at Your Best from Every Angle

Style: PC gaming chair

Material: PU leather

Top Features: 155-degree tilt; Extendable and retractable footrest; Infinite angle lock

This omega gaming chair manages to be incredibly stylish, without skimping on quality or ergonomics.

155-degree tilt and infinite locking mean that you can game in whatever position feels comfortable, and you can pop out the extendable footrest for added comfort. However, because the wheels are positioned farther back to account for the recline, if you lean too far forward the chair can tip.

Also, the padded armrests aren’t adjustable, but they do pivot with the chair’s recline. It’s still super comfortable but worth noting.

OFM makes some of the best pro gaming chairs, and this is no exception.

10. Openwheeler GEN2 Racing/Flight Simulator – Best Chair to Hold Your Entire Gaming Setup

Style: Simulator gaming chair

Material: Leather; Metal frame

Top Features: Fully adjustable; Will fit most brand wheels and pedals; Compatible with Xbox and PS4

This is one of the best rated gaming chairs on Amazon. For simulator fans this could be your perfect match. All parts of the chair are adjustable and it is compatible with a host of peripherals making this a highly customizable gaming chair.

The professional quality build of this racing gaming chair makes you feel like you’re in a real car/cockpit. I’m the kind of player that pushes much harder on the accelerator than I need to, and I felt no give when putting pressure on this pedal stand.

Getting in and out is easy thanks to the chair’s sliders, so you don’t have to change any settings once you’ve found your proper gaming posture.

11. Amazon Basics Kids/Youth Gaming Recliner – A Starter Chair for Aspiring Young Gamers

Style: Children’s Recliner

Material: LeatherSoft; Wood frame

Top Features: Reclining backrest; Pull-out footrest; Easy clean upholstery

A great small gaming chair for children. They will love the grown-up feel of this chair while you can be assured that your little one is comfortable while they game, read, and relax.

This isn’t the chair of choice for sitting at a desk, but for chilling out in front of an Xbox or PS4, your child will love it.

There’s no reason why your gamer child shouldn’t play in comfort on one of the best gaming chairs on Amazon exclusively.

As with most children’s furniture, it’s designed with endurance in mind, but I don’t think it’s indestructible. There are a few reports of ripped stitching and toppling when leaning too far back. If your kid is on the reckless side, there may be better options, like a wood stool or the floor, but overall this a durable gaming chair that can withstand a regular amount of child activity.

12. Playseat Challenge Racing Video Game Chair – Simulation Gaming Chair for Smaller Spaces

Style: Racing simulation gaming chair

Material: Nylon Mesh; Steel frame

Top Features: Foldable; Customizable with 3rd party support; Compact; Movable wheel support

Not everyone has the space for a full simulation rig, and for those people Playseat has the answer.

This racing gaming chair has the real-life feel you want from a simulator but with the bonus of being able to fold up to be easily stored. The simple style means you can use it in relatively small spaces.

Although, you do have to sacrifice some cushioning, meaning the chair itself can get a little uncomfortable after long hours of tearing up the race track.

The rig supports PlayStation and Xbox steering wheels and has a strong and sturdy build for users up to 7 feet and 250lbs.

A great feature is that the wheel support folds outward, meaning it’s super easy to get in and out even in the smallest spaces.

13. Malu Luxury Padded Floor Chair with Back Support – Good Gaming Chair You can Take Anywhere

Style: Portable Floor Chair

Material: Vegan Leather; Microsuede

Top Features: Adjustable backrest; Reinforced steel frame; Foldable; Carry strap; Removable cover

Not a chair designed specifically for gaming but a cheaper, more compact alternative.

A great cloth gaming chair to take on the go for a casual gaming session round a friend’s house, in the park, or anywhere else you can think of. Just unfold, position the back to your desired angle, and you’re good to go.

Great for traveling, if you’re all about that minimalist lifestyle, or if you just prefer working and gaming on the floor.

If your gaming console is not attached to a desk or a TV — a Nintendo Switch for example — this chair is ideal. Just perhaps not for long gaming sessions.

14. X Rocker 5172601 Surge Bluetooth 2.1 Sound Gaming Chair – Great Gaming Chair for Audiophiles

Style: Console rocker gaming chair

Material: Faux leather; Steel frame

Top Features: 2.1 stereo speakers; Bluetooth compatibility; Foldable; Multi-chair connectivity

This floor rocker boasts some of the richest sounds for a console gaming chair, as well as a comfortable ergonomic shape.

Stylish and comfortable, this quality chair can be sat in for hours. As for the size, this is as much an adult gaming chair as it is a kid’s gaming chair. But be warned the chair is low, so it may not be as easy to get off if your knees aren’t what they used to be.

It’s a nice touch that you can connect your devices through Bluetooth, effectively using the chair as a Bluetooth speaker. Unfortunately though, you cannot connect consoles through Bluetooth and may need certain types of wires to connect the sound. This goes for most console chairs with integrated electronics. So, always double check.

15. La-Z-Boy Bellamy Executive Office Chair – The Sophisticated Gamer’s Choice

Style: Office chair

Material: Leather; Wood frame

Top Features: Memory foam; Renowned La-Z-Boy design; Easily adjustable AIR technology

A great regular office chair but an awesome gaming office chair.

If you prefer a bit more of a traditional, classy look with all the modern advances in ergonomics and comfort, maybe you need a La-Z-Boy.

Top-of-the-line materials and ergonomic design make this a great all-round chair. Working, gaming or relaxing. 

The racing style gaming chairs are not everyone’s style, and just because this isn’t marketed as a gaming chair doesn’t mean this classy seat cannot be used to chill out in any situation. When you don’t mean business, that is.

16. AK Racing EX-Wide gaming chair – Biggest Bucket Seat Gaming chair

Style: PC racer gaming chair

Material: Fabric; Metal frame; Aluminum base

Top features: 180-degree recline; Wide frame; Class 4 gaslift; 4D adjustable armrests

Ergonomically sculpted with built-in lumbar support. 180-degree recline, top quality materials, and one of the highest weight capacities in the gaming chair market — Everything great about an AKRacing chair, only with an extra wide frame.

Great adjustable armrests, height, and backrest on top of a sturdy aluminum base with 2.5 inch casters makes this a really comfortable chair for larger users.

AKRacing is a top choice brand for esports gamers, probably because they cater to everyone’s preferences. Adding their unique style and craftsmanship to every chair.

17. Sofa Sack Memory Foam Bean Bag Chair with Microsuede Cover – A Bean Bag that can Take a Beating

Style: Bean Bag

Material: Memory foam; Microsuede

Top features: Soft and tough fabric; Furniture-grade memory foam

A great alternative to traditional rolling gaming chairs, the Sofa Sack bean bag is often a gamer’s choice.

Technically not a ‘bean’ bag, the sofa sack is filled with high-end memory foam. This means you don’t have the problem of sinking into the bag. Which means no more rolling around just to get back on your feet.

The fabric of the cover is pleasant on the skin, breathable, and durable — this bean bag can take a fair amount of battering.

And while it’s not the most ergonomic of choices, if you don’t have problems with back pain you could sit for as long as you could on gaming chair cushions without feeling discomfort. 

18. X Rocker Pro 51259 H3 4.1 Audio Gaming Chair – A Chair for Immersion

Style: Rocker Console Gaming chair

Material: Vinyl

Top Features: 4 speakers; Ergonomic design; Adjustable armrests; Vibration

Perhaps the ultimate rocker console gaming chair. The X Rocker Pro is equipped with 4 speakers, plus a subwoofer, plus vibration feedback. This makes for one immersive gaming experience.

On top of all that, it’s one of the most ergonomic gaming chairs thanks to its quality design, materials, and armrests — which most rocker chairs don’t have.

The sound from this chair sucks you into whichever game you’re playing or movie you’re watching, and is my top choice for losing myself after a hard day’s work when I want to get away from that ‘desk chair’ feeling.

A downside is that the wireless system needs batteries replaced quite often. A small price to pay for one of the best gaming chairs for PS4, Xbox, and Nintendo.

19. Big Joe Lenox Fuf Foam Filled Bean Bag – For the Absurdly Awesome Gamer

Style: Bean Bag

Material: Shredded Foam; Durable fabric.

Top features: Never goes flat; Absurdly awesome

Not every gamer wants to sit upright in a tall gaming chair. Sometimes they want to lay with their laptops on their knees, curl up with a keyboard at their side, and even cuddle up with another human while they game.

If that’s the case for you, then a Big Joe Lenox may be the right video gaming chair. Touted as absurdly awesome, this bean bag is definitely one of the most comfy gaming chairs.

What you sacrifice in ergonomics you make up for in sheer cloud-like comfort. Alone or with a fellow gamer, you can sink right in. And although it’s not that difficult to get out of, you may not want to.

They have a range of options to choose from. If you’re a bean bag gamer, or just love the casual, modern style they bring to a room then Big Joe Lenox could be exactly what you want.

20. Next Level Racing Challenger Simulator Cockpit – The Simulation Chair to Take Your Racing to the Next Level

Style: Simulator

Material: Fabric; Metal frame

Top Features: Seat slider; Solid braking pad; Reclining seat; Included shifter plate; Upgradable

This simulation rig is solidly built and one of the most customizable gaming chairs. Every part is adjustable and it can be upgraded with wheels, a mounted TV, keyboard and mouse stand and floor mat.

Driving or flying, you’ll feel like you’re there, especially attaching a TV so close you may as well be wearing VR goggles.

The seat leaves a little to be desired in terms of comfort, but the perfection of the build makes up for that. You can put your full weight into the game and you’ll barely feel the rig move.

21. RESPAWN-900 Racing Style Gaming Recliner – The Ultimate Kick-Back-And-Game Chair

Style: Recliner racing style

Material: Leather; Metal frame

Top features: 135-degree independent recline; Gapless footrest; Cup holder; Accessory pocket

This gaming lounge chair is designed for comfort. Independent back and footrests let you decide which position you game in. 

The chair and footrest are seamless, meaning you won’t get your wires caught up in the chair.

The padded armrests are super comfortable, and although they don’t adjust they do move with the chair. 

Taller gamers have said that their feet hang off the edge, so be sure to check the dimensions first.

This black and white gaming chair is also really stylish, although, with the added cup holder and accessory pocket, you won’t need to get out of it very often to see it.

22. MERITLINE Swivel Video Rocker Gaming Chair – Great Multi-Position Gaming Chair

Style: Rocker

Material: Fabric; Steel alloy frame

Top features: 7 positions; 360-degree swivel; Foldable

Good cheap gaming chairs don’t come along often, so it’s a treat to see Meritline bring us this quality rocker chair.

One of the best gaming chairs for a short person or child. However, many reviews from taller people also sing its praises. This budget gaming chair boasts a weight capacity of 300lbs.

With 7 adjustable positions this custom gaming chair is one of the best gaming chairs under 150 bucks. And if integrated electronics aren’t on your priority list then this could be your kind of rocker console gaming chair.

23. Bonzy Home Reclining Office Chair – One of the Best Mesh Chairs for Heavier Gamers

Style: Mesh recliner

Material: Mesh fabric; Steel frame

Top Features: Hidden footrest; Adjustable lumbar support; Adjustable padded armrests

A wonderful alternative to traditional leather gaming chairs, this mesh backrest is sure to keep you sweat free and well supported with the integrated and adjustable lumbar support.

It’s sleek design can withstand a lot, with it being able to hold up to 300lbs.

Combine that with a hidden footrest, solid and adjustable headrest, and a really comfy seat cushion and you’ve got one of the best gaming chairs under 200 dollars for big and tall people who want to put their feet up.

Final Verdict

Are gaming chairs worth it? 

Yes.

Which one, however, is up to you. I have compiled a great list of choices here, but you should always do your research. A gaming chair, office chair, or any chair for that matter is an investment — in yourself and your comfort. In the right chair you will be more productive at work, and play at the top of your game.

I cannot recommend a king of chairs; there are so many great choices out there, you can’t go wrong with any on this list. But, as I said, take the time to decide on your throne of gaming.

Buyer’s guide

There are loads of things to think about when deciding on a gaming chair — or any chair for that matter. Here’s a quick guide on some important things to consider when choosing your next gaming chair.

Chair Style

The first thing you want to decide on is what kind of chair you’d like. Gaming chairs come in a few different forms, so the choice is down to you.

PC gaming

These are probably the chairs you think of when someone says gaming chair. They can range from your basic high back to gaming desk chairs on steroids.

These make a great choice for PC gamers who also want a chair to double as an office chair.

And with many boasting advanced ergonomics, reclining backrests, extendable footstools and comfortable head pillows, they are just as suited for kicking back with a console controller.

Console gaming chairs

Also called pedestal chairs, these chairs often rock and are directly on the floor or with a short stand.

Generally, they will come with speakers incorporated into the headrest, a vibration function, and plenty of connectors for headphones, consoles, and other console chairs.

Racing simulation chairs

Although PC chairs are often described as ‘racing chairs,’ that’s because they are designed from actual chairs you’d find in race cars.

These racing simulation chairs are different beasts, however. These are designed to give the user a racing or flight experience by replicating a cockpit and allow you to attach your wheels, pedals, and gear stick.

Bean bag

Perhaps not the most ergonomic seat but a popular choice among gamers as it gives you the opportunity to sit in (almost) any position you wish.

Chill out with friends for a casual gaming session, or curl up with a good book. Bean bags are versatile, comfortable, and stylish.

Features

Once you’ve chosen your preferred style of chair, it’s time to look into the specifics.

Ergonomics

Probably the number one reason why you’d decide to get a gaming computer chair.

Ergonomics are a set of principles a chair has that ensure the user maintains proper posture and has supported movement. All while being able to react quickly.

An ergonomic chair will be adjustable — at the very least, back angle, height and armrests. It will have lumbar support and plenty of back and neck support. And all of these should be lockable, allowing for different postures.

Build

Generally, you get what you pay for when it comes to build. Some things to look out for are:

• Steel frames over wood or plastic.
• An aluminum (or nylon) five-pointed wheel base.
• Wide casters. Over 3” is great and under 2” is worth being wary of.
• Mold shaping, memory foam or cold foam will last the longest.

Material

Most chairs are made from PU leather, which is a perfectly acceptable alternative to expensive leather.

PC gaming chairs come with varying amounts of mesh, if overheating is a problem then the more mesh the better. And there are plenty of good computer chairs with quality cloth upholstery if that suits you more than leather.

Armrests

Almost all PC gaming chairs will come with armrests, and this is important for PC gamers. You’ll want adjustable armrests that support your elbows while at a right angle, leaving your shoulders relaxed. There are even armrests where the width can be adjusted for those who want a bit more breathing space.

Height and weight capacity

This is something to pay attention to, especially if you’re bigger or smaller than average. Gaming chairs come with height and weight capacities. Heavy-duty chairs will usually come marketed as ‘big and tall.’

When buying online, this is something to make a note of. You don’t want to be bursting out of your chair, nor do you want your legs dangling over the side.

Compatibility

Console chairs often come with connection options. USB ports to charge controllers, surround sound in the headrest, and various rocking and rumble features — to name a few. Make sure the chair is compatible with whatever hardware you expect to use with it.

Dimensions

Beyond knowing the capacity of a chair, you may want to take note of the dimensions. You’ll want to check it will fit under your desk. If you buy a mat to protect your new wood floors, you want to make sure that the wheels of the chair won’t slip over the edge.

Methodology

I have been gaming since I can remember, and I’ve sat in more chairs than I can remember. As any gamer knows, you rarely sit and play for a few minutes. When you’re in a game session, you’ll be in your chair for at least a few hours, and with many gamers using the same chair for work and gaming, you could be sat in a particular chair for a whole day. So, when it comes to the perfect seat, there’s a lot to consider.

There is no ‘best’ chair for everyone. People are different sizes and shapes, and they have different preferences and play styles. So, I wanted to create a list with a range of chairs for various needs. Each one is either personally tested by me, recommended by a gamer or someone who spends long hours in one chair, or they have been meticulously researched online through gaming chair reviews and given my seal of approval.

I know what makes a good chair and you can rest assured that every chair on this list meets the requirements of a ‘top class’ chair. The rest is down to your personal preference.

Hopefully this has made for a list that includes the perfect chair for anyone’s posterior.

FAQ

Q: What is the best gaming chair 2022?

A: There are loads of factors that go into choosing a gaming chair, and it is difficult to say which is the best. Comfort is subjective after all. My general recommendation would be the AKRacing Masters Series Premium Gaming Chair. This chair has pretty much everything going for it, however the price tag shows that. You should check out our full list and buyers guide for a clearer picture of what options are out there.

Q: What is the most comfortable gaming chair?

A: Again, comfort is subjective. You could go for a bean bag style which favors comfort over ergonomics. Or perhaps a La-Z-Boy with its memory foam cushions. Or maybe firmer high back office chairs are the best video game chairs for you.

Basically, this is down to personal preference.

Q: Are gaming chairs worth it?

A: If you spend a decent amount of time in a chair, it is probably worth it. All chairs have a certain level of ergonomics and that is essential for keeping good posture and protecting your spine, wrists, neck and pretty much every bone and muscle.

Q: What chairs do pro gamers use?

A: A wide range of brands and models. There are too many pros to list all their chairs, but what I can tell you is that they all will have spent the time to research and test a bunch of chairs before making the right choice for them. They most likely didn’t copy the best gaming chairs of other pros.

Top Rated Gaming Chairs

Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API