Shopping for a gaming chair can be tricky: Many look alike and list the same features, but comfort and ergonomics are hard to judge without trying them. Today’s chairs offer better support, breathable mesh and wider seats, making them great for gaming or office use. Whether buying for yourself or as a gift, there are options for every budget and body type. I test chairs with help from friends and family of various sizes — I’m 6 feet tall and over 200 pounds, and some chairs feel snug, but a smaller person might find them uncomfortably large. It’s crucial to choose one that matches your height and weight for optimal support. That’s where I can help.
What’s the best gaming chair overall?
The Secretlab Titan Evo is the best gaming chair I’ve tested. It combines traditional gaming style and feel with modern features like swappable skins, magnetic armrests, an optional footrest, a legrest and a wide range of designs — all at a reasonable price. It comes in multiple sizes, so you can get an excellent fit regardless of your size. That combination makes it the best overall.
What we updated: June 2025
Added Anda Seat Kaiser 4, Sihoo Doro S300 and Anda Seat Novis Series chairs. Removed Anda Seat Fnatic Edition, Razer Iskur and Secret Labs Omega 2020.
Avantaje
- Comes in three sizes
- Adjustable built-in lumbar support
- Locking 4D armrests
- Multiple upholstery options and themed Skins for personalization
Contra
- Firm seat
- Footrest and legrest are sold separately
Why I like it
The Titan Evo builds on a top-rated design with smart, user-friendly upgrades. Its magnetic headrest and armrests simplify customization and maintenance, while the internal adjustable lumbar support and locking 4D armrests provide ergonomic comfort and stability. The wide seat, deep recline, and multiple upholstery options make it adaptable to different needs. It’s also available in three sizes: small (up to 5 feet, 6 inches and 200 pounds), regular (5 feet, 7 inches to 6 feet 2 inches and up to 220 pounds) and XL (5 feet, 11 inches to 6 feet, 9 inches and up to 395 pounds). The new Secretlab Skins add another layer of personalization and protection.
Who it’s best for
It is ideal for gamers and remote workers who spend long hours at their desks and value comfort and customization. It’s especially well-suited for people who want a high-end, adjustable chair that fits their body type—thanks to three size options—and those who appreciate aesthetic flexibility through themed skins.
Who should skip it
It’s not a great match for those who prefer a soft, plush seat or minimalist office chairs without gaming aesthetics. It may also be too expensive for budget-conscious buyers or overkill for those who only sit for short periods.
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Avantaje
- Extra-wide seat base is ideal for sitting cross-legged or with feet up
- Fits a wide height-and-weight range
- Choice of premium PVC leather or linen in multiple colors
- Upgraded magnetic headrest for easy adjustment
- 4D armrests with added tilt
Contra
- Large footprint may not fit smaller spaces
- Limited fabric options
- Aside from an upward tilt, the armrests don’t lock in place
Why I like it
The Kaiser 4 improves on AndaSeat’s previous models with thoughtful design upgrades. It includes internal adjustable lumbar support, a magnetic headrest for easy height adjustment and 4D armrests that tilt upward, making it ideal for console or handheld gaming. The broad base, spacious seat and plush materials — premium PVC leather or linen fabric — add to its comfort. It’s available in lots of colors and two sizes that support people up to 6-feet-11-inches tall and 397 pounds (the XL model, in particular, cradles you like a baseball in a mitt).
Who it’s best for
It’s great for gamers who like to sit cross-legged or with their feet up and for people who spend long hours seated for work, play or lounging. It’s especially suited for people who want a traditional gaming chair style with premium materials and ergonomic enhancements.
Who should skip it
It’s not ideal for those who prefer a minimalist or office-style aesthetic, or if you’re looking for mesh-backed breathability. It’s also not the best choice if you need compact dimensions for smaller spaces, as the chair’s wide footprint may overwhelm tight setups.
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Avantaje
- Antigravity mechanism gives you a weightless feel
- Breathable mesh helps keep you cool
- Fully adjustable armrests for custom positioning
- Ideal for handheld or controller gamers
Contra
- Armrests don’t lock into place
- Less cushioned than traditional seats
- Ratcheting backrest system doesn’t lock
Why I like it
The Sihoo Doro S300 has excellent ergonomics for all-day comfort. Its standout feature is the 6D padded armrests, which can tilt inward and upward, perfect for console gaming or adjusting your posture throughout the day. The company used premium materials like aluminum alloy, breathable mesh and soft velvet, and the dual lumbar support, five-level adjustable backrest and an antigravity mechanism make you feel weightless when you recline. Add in a 30-day trial and a 5-year warranty, and this $679 chair clearly delivers both style and substance.
Who it’s best for
Those who spend long hours at their desks: remote workers, gamers, or anyone needing a breathable yet supportive chair. It’s especially great if you like a lot of adjustability, like console players or handheld gamers who benefit from the armrest tilt.
Who should skip it
I don’t recommend it if you want locking armrests; the 6D arms can shift when getting in or out of the chair. The mesh seat means no plush cushioning or a more traditional executive-style seat. Also, at $679, it’s not exactly a bargain, though you do get what you pay for.
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Avantaje
- Affordable price with a premium look and feel
- Adjustable armrests suit various desk heights
- Well-cushioned seat for long sitting sessions
- Compact design fits most office or desk setups
Contra
- Lacks advanced lumbar support (no pop-out feature)
- Armrests don’t rotate like higher-end models (e.g., Kaiser 4)
- May not meet the needs of heavy or hardcore gamers
Why I like it
The AndaSeat Novis Series offers impressive quality at an affordable $250 price. It’s easy to assemble (about 30 minutes, solo), fits most desk setups and features adjustable armrests that can clear standard desks even at their lowest setting. The seat is well-cushioned and supportive for long periods of use, with enough width to sit cross-legged comfortably, especially great for smaller users. Despite the budget price, the premium PVC leather finish gives it a high-end look and feel.
Who it’s best for
It’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want a versatile, comfortable chair for gaming and office use. It’s especially well-suited for petite users or those with smaller workspaces who still want adjustable features and lasting comfort. You don’t need to be a gamer to enjoy it — it’s a great all-around ergonomic chair.
Who should skip it
Hardcore gamers looking for advanced features like pop-out lumbar support or rotating armrests should give it a pass. It may feel too basic if you want highly customizable ergonomic adjustments or prefer a heavier-duty build (like what the Kaiser 4 on this list offers). Taller people may also want to double-check armrest and seat dimensions before committing.
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Avantaje
- Sleek, professional look
- Mesh back for breathability and airflow
- Highly adjustable for comfort and support
- Full back support and headrest
- Bold color accents offer subtle gaming flair
Contra
- Premium price
- Bold accents may still stand out in minimalist setups
- Limited color combinations compared to typical gaming chairs
Why I like it
The Mavix M7 combines the comfort and adjustability of a high-end ergonomic office chair, but it still shows the company’s gaming roots. It offers full back support, a breathable mesh back, 360-degree adjustable armrests and a bold, removable headrest and lumbar cushions. Its sleek design makes it one of the few gaming chairs that can blend seamlessly into a professional office. It’s also one of the most comfortable and adjustable chairs I’ve tested.
Who it’s best for
This one is a solid choice for professionals or gamers who want the ergonomic benefits of an office chair and the comfort of a gaming chair, but without the flashy design. It’s perfect for someone who spends long hours at a desk and values airflow, adjustability and understated aesthetics.
Who should skip it
At nearly $800, the M7 is firmly in the “premium” category. It also won’t satisfy those who prefer the traditional plush look and feel of racing-style gaming chairs with faux leather and bold colors throughout.
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Avantaje
- Exceptional back and shoulder support
- Breathable, layered upholstery keeps you cool
- 12-year warranty
Contra
- Very expensive
- “Gamer” version differs mostly in color accents
- Lacks traditional gaming chair aesthetic
Why I like it
The Embody Gaming Chair delivers top-tier ergonomic performance with exceptional back and shoulder support, ideal for long hours of work or gaming. Its standout feature is the dynamic tension adjustment system, allowing you to fine-tune support across a wide range of motion. The breathable “pixelated support” material keeps you cool while the build quality and comfort remain unmatched. Though branded for gamers, its design is subtle — aside from optional ocean blue accents — and it retains the same premium craftsmanship and 12-year warranty as the original office version. It’s a serious investment, but one that’s built to last.
Who it’s best for
Professionals, gamers and hybrid users who spend long hours seated and want advanced ergonomic support. It is especially suited for those with back or shoulder strain from prolonged computer use who value precise adjustability and long-term durability over flashy aesthetics. It’s also great for those who want one chair that works equally well for productivity and play.
Who should skip it
It is not the right fit for casual gamers who only sit for short periods or those on a tight budget. It’s also not for people who prefer the aggressive styling of typical gaming chairs or need headrests, which the Embody lacks. If color and aesthetics are your main priorities, the subtle look may feel underwhelming despite the performance.
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Avantaje
- Excellent lumbar support
- Highly adjustable ergonomic fit
- Smooth-gliding inline-style wheels
Contra
- More expensive than many gaming chairs with similar features
Why I like it
The X-Chair X3 blends sleek office design with features typically found in premium gaming chairs. Its standout feature, Dynamic Variable Lumbar (DVL) support, adjusts with your movement to maintain constant lower back support. The mesh back promotes airflow, which is great for staying cool during long gaming sessions, and the foam seat base slides forward and back for personalized comfort. The headrest is both height- and tilt-adjustable, and the 4D armrests add flexibility. Premium X-wheel casters glide silently and won’t mark your floors, while the water- and stain-resistant nylon upholstery holds up to daily use.
Who it’s best for
It’s essentially an office chair, so if you’re after something without the “gamer” look and good ergonomics, this is a fit. It’s also a great choice for taller users (up to 6-foot-3-inches tall) and heavier people (up to 350 pounds), especially for those who sit for extended periods and value breathability and lumbar support.
Who should skip it
The price starts at $879, and while that’s significantly less than the Embody chair, it’s still expensive. Plus, with upgrades like premium wheels or locking casters, the price goes higher. It may also not appeal to those who prefer a softer, more plush seat or a chair with bold, gaming-style aesthetics. If you don’t need high-end adjustability or plan to sit for only short sessions, this is probably overkill.
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Gaming chair comparison
Specifications
| Chair manufacturer | Weight supported (pounds) | Recline | Armrest features | Height supported |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Secretlab Titan Evo Series | 395 | 165 degrees | 4D, magnetic tops | 5’6″–6’9″ |
| AndaSeat Kaiser 4 | 400 | 165 degrees | 4D, tilting | 5’11″–6’11” |
| Sihoo Doro S300 | 300 | Smooth antigravity recline | 6D padded | 5’5″–6’3″ |
| AndaSeat Novis Series | 260 | 160 degrees | 4D | 5’6″–6’2″ |
| Mavix M7 | 275 | Max tilt with tension control | 4D | 5’4″–6’2″ |
| Herman Miller X Logitech Embody | 300 | Smooth recline with tilt limiter | 2D height/width | 5’3″–6’1″ |
| X-Chair X3 ATR | 340 | Dynamic recline | 4D | 5’3″–6’4″ |
A good gaming chair ranges from about $150 to more than $1,000, depending on features, design, size and materials. There are basic cloth chairs with a standard foam seat cushion, a backrest and fixed armrests, and then there are higher-end chairs made with premium materials, ergonomic features and seats that dissipate heat to keep the user cool. Then there’s everything in between. Some chairs also have built-in heating and massage.
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Yes, manufacturers design these chairs to be used for long stretches of time. However, when a chair is genuinely cheap, costs were cut somewhere. This could result in an uncomfortable seat cushion, poor back, arm, neck and head support or just something that doesn’t last. Like a lot of products, you get what you pay for.
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While lower-end gaming chairs might have fixed armrests or height-adjustable armrests, a 4D armrest adds more ways to adjust allowing gamers to find that productive sweet spot. They can be adjusted vertically for taller or shorter people and moved in and out for a broad or narrow arm spread. They can also be rotated in and out and moved forward and backward.
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There are a lot of gaming chair brands, and new ones seemingly pop up weekly. With that in mind, here are the best gaming chair brands CNET editors have tested and have performed well over time.
- Secretlab: Known for Titan Evo Series, magnetic accessories
- Anda Seat: Popular models include Kaiser 4, Phantom 3 and Marvel-themed chairs
- DXRacer: Popular models include Formula Series, Master Series
- Razer: Popular models include Iskur and Enki series
- Noblechairs: Popular models include Hero, Epic, Icon
- Vertagear: Popular models include SL5000, PL4500
- Mavix: Popular models include M7, M9
- Corsair: Popular models include TC100, TC200
- Respawn: Known for budget-friendly chairs under $300
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Our gaming chair testing is much like you might test one: We use them daily for work, gaming, to evaluate comfort, support and real-world performance. However, we involve multiple CNET editors in the process, so the chairs get tested by people of various heights and weights and various use cases.
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