Sitting is the great leveller. From the mightiest speedrunning streamer to the quick sesh casual, who doesn’t enjoy a good sit? More to the point, who doesn’t prefer parking their rear on a purpose-built Gaming Chair? Most desktop gamers obsess over frames per second and RGB glow, but in my decades of experience, the real game-changer has been my comfort levels during a marathon playthrough.
A cosy, well-built chair makes all the difference when the hours stack up like a bad game of Tetris. That’s where my top pick, the Secretlab Titan Evo, shines. It is but one option, however, and I’m confident that I’ve found top options to suit any discerning derrière…
TL;DR – Here Are the Best Gaming Chairs:
Across various sites and magazine pages, I’ve been testing gaming chairs for ages now. I think the best of the bunch should all do one thing brilliantly: let you settle in for hours without your spine cracking the sads or your tailbone telling you to get out more. I can take the rare cue from my learned IGN pals across the Pacific, but I’m also an autonomous connoisseur who looks out for his own can. Also, I come from a proud nation where our flag has a giant backside and a boot on it. If that’s not a nod to national priorities like putting behinds ahead of everything else, I don’t know what is.
What you want in a top-tier chair is customisable lumbar support, height and tilt tweaks, comfy armrests, and a headrest that actually supports your melon. The ergonomics need to work so your focus stays in-game, not on your aching bits. But with the market being chockers full of overpriced or overdesigned options, I’ve narrowed it down to an elite few I’ve actually perched upon and would happily park myself in again. Sturdy frames, good upholstery, and all the creature comforts are a given.
1. Secretlab Titan Evo XL
Best Gaming Chair
Ergonomics
4D adjustable armrests, 4-way lumbar adjustment, magnetic head pillow, memory foam armrests
I can confirm that the SoftWeave Plus Fabric option delivers exceptional comfort
Spacious, generously cushioned seat for wider frames
Incredibly solid build that handles heavy use and high weight limits
More expensive than the standard or smaller-sized models
Firm backrest foam may feel too stiff for some users
This absolute aircraft carrier of a chair is your Big Boy Edition, and ever since I built it, I’ve loved what it’s done for my buns. The TITAN Evo XL is built for those who like a bit more wiggle room, with a 49cm-wide seat and supportive side bolsters that make lesser chairs feel like folding stools. It’s held together by a Class 4 lift and a tank-tier frame rated for up to 179kg, so even the most snack-fuelled marathon session won’t faze it.
Secretlab hasn’t forgotten the tall kings either, as this throne suits gamers from 5-foot-11 to 6-foot-9 with a high backrest that supports your spine like a loyal squire. You’re also spoiled with ergonomic features: built-in lumbar support you can dial in, a magnetic memory foam neck pillow that stays put, and swappable 4D armrests that lock in wherever your elbows feel happiest. The seat is plush memory foam infused with cooling gel, and the entire base tilts as you recline, giving you that satisfying lean-back without the fear of sliding out mid-match.
And yes, if you’re the type to accessorise your battlestation, Secretlab has XL versions in some wild looks. From anime icons and Esports crews like Cloud9, to limited-run collabs with Cyberpunk 2077, Mortal Kombat, Star Wars or Batman, there’s probably a style that’ll match your mousepad or your personality.
2. Razer Iskur V2 X
Best Budget Gaming Chair
Razer Iskur V2 X
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Seat Height
40.9 – 51.1 cm
Ergonomics
2D adjustable armrests, tilt tension, tilt recline, integrated lumbar support
Steel frame and alloy base feel tough as nails
Cushiony seat with top-notch fabric finish
Looks flash without costing a motza
Lumbar support can’t be adjusted
No bonus pillows in the box
If you’re chasing a solid gaming chair without blowing the budget, the Razer Iskur V2 X is a cracking option. It’s not the absolute cheapest, but it’s built to last and looks the goods too. Perfect if you’re planning to fire up the face cam for a stream.
When I tested this chair, what really stood out was how much effort Razer put into durability. The fabric is soft but rugged, tightly woven to handle daily use without fraying or stretching out. Under that sits a layer of dense cushioning and a steel frame, which is a big step up from the dodgy fibreboard you usually find in cheaper chairs. Even the wheelbase has copped an upgrade to aluminium, which knocks out one more weak point.
Comfort-wise, it’s ready to go straight out of the box. The cushions are firm but forgiving, and the fabric feels great even after hours of sitting. It doesn’t include any pillows, so if you want extra neck or lumbar support, you’ll need to grab those separately. That said, the built-in lumbar curve worked a treat for my back during longer sessions.
Can you get a chair for less? Sure. But at this price, the Razer Iskur V2 X nails the balance between build quality, comfort, and clean design. Even if you’ve got to stash away a bit more coin, it’s worth the wait.
3. Haworth Fern
Best Ergonomic Gaming Chair
Haworth Fern
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Exceptional in just about every way. It’s comfortable, supportive, extremely well made and designed to last.
Seat Height
52.07-62.23 cm
Ergonomics
Dynamic variable lumbar, adjustable backrest height, adjustable waterfall seat, 4D or FS 360° armrests
Sleek look and solid back support
Heaps of tweakable comfort settings
Easily adjusts to suit your shape
Top-tier warranty for peace of mind
Pretty pricey for most folks
Headrest could use a rethink
The Haworth Fern is a bit of a standout in the high-end chair space. It’s not cheap by any stretch, but it earns its keep with a solid 12-year warranty and the kind of all-day comfort you’d expect from a company that’s been making ergonomic gear for proper office use.
What makes the Fern unique is how it handles back support. Instead of a single piece of padding, it uses a flexible grid that moves with you, offering support no matter how you shift around. Behind that is a fern-shaped spine. That’s where the name comes from, and it adds a bit of extra structure. You can also tack on adjustable lumbar support, which is worth considering if you want more control over the feel.
During testing, it was clear Haworth had gone all in on customisation. There are four different material types, including mesh, digital knit with a chevron vibe, gradient knit with a top-to-bottom colour fade, and straight-up leather. Each comes in a bunch of colours, and you can tweak every detail from arm type and tilt style to whether you want an aluminium or plastic base.
Plenty of chairs look the goods but don’t deliver where it counts. The Fern offers sharp design, but more importantly, it’s loaded with ergonomic options. That includes seat depth, 4D armrests, recline tension, tilt lock, and a backstop if you prefer locking in a set position. It’s the kind of chair that earns its price tag once you’re parked in it for the long haul.
4. Razer Enki
Best Fabric Gaming Chair
Razer Enki
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Fabric where you touch, leather for the looks, this chair blends the best of both worlds and offers killer comfort at the same time.
Seat Height
44.45-54.61 cm
Tilt
152° maximum recline
Ergonomics
Integrated lumbar arch, precise shoulder arch, 4D armrests, neck pillow
Comfier than your couch on a Sunday
Stands out with proper unique style
Budget and premium versions muddy the waters
Cheaper model skips the neck pillow
The Razer Enki is a bit of a cheeky contender in this category. It’s part fabric, part EPU leather, but the part your body actually touches is a soft, breathable suede. That earns it a spot on the list. The mix of materials gives it a unique look that feels premium without overdoing it.
During testing, it stood out as one of the comfiest gaming chairs for full workdays and long play sessions. That’s not something most gaming chairs are known for. The built-in lumbar arch and shaped shoulder support gently guide you into place, keeping your posture in check without much effort. The seat is soft from the get-go, and the magnetic neck pillow, finished in velour, makes quick adjustments simple. It might sound like marketing fluff, but it genuinely works and feels spot on.
It comes with the usual line-up of gaming features, including a deep 152-degree recline, height adjustment, and proper 4D armrests. Unlike many others, the armrests here are cushioned enough to be comfortable and can rise higher than most, which helps keep your arms level with the desk.
At around $450 AUD, it’s not the cheapest option out there. But if you’re watching your spend, the more affordable Razer Enki X drops the magnetic pillow and swaps in 2D armrests. If comfort is top of your list, though, the standard Enki is well worth the extra bucks.
5. Respawn 900 Gaming Recliner
Best Gaming Chair with a Footrest
Respawn 900 Gaming Recliner
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The perfect chair for putting your feet back and kicking back with a recliner, it offers plenty of options at a reasonable price.
Ergonomics/Extra Features
360° swivel, 135° recline, backrest and recline operate independently, built-in cupholder, removeable storage pouch, included headrest pillow
Cushiony seat made for feet-up arvo sessions
Recline and backrest move on their own
Spins full circle without fuss
Comes in leather or fabric to suit taste
Might sit too low for taller desks
Finding a gaming chair with a good footrest is harder than you’d expect. Most of them look and feel the same and don’t really stand out. The Respawn 900 Gaming Recliner is one of the few that breaks the mould.
This chair blends the style of a racing seat with the comfort of a proper recliner. Respawn has built a solid reputation for affordable chairs that don’t feel cheap, and this model proves it. The footrest is part of the seat with a single padded surface, and you get separate controls for reclining, adjusting the backrest, and lifting the footrest. It’s perfect for kicking back with a controller or relaxing away from the desk.
Comfort is key here. The armrests are wide and nicely padded. There’s a cup holder on the left arm and a removable pouch to stash remotes or snacks. You can pick from fabric or PU leather in a few different styles to match your space.
There are some compromises though. The chair isn’t height adjustable, and the armrests don’t move, so it might not suit every desk. The seat height is about 18 inches, similar to the lowest setting on a standard gaming chair. For the current asking price, it’s a solid choice for anyone who wants a comfy spot for long sessions without needing to get up all the time.
How I Selected the Best Gaming Chairs
When picking which gaming chairs make the cut, I always start with the ones I’ve actually sat in and reckon are worth your time. Between myself and the other IGN crew, we test heaps of chairs and this list will keep evolving as more come rolling through the doors.
If a chair hasn’t been hands-on tested, we lean on our deep well of experience to suss out its ergonomics, build quality, and features. We also tap into trusted advice from mates in the industry and pore through real user reviews. Lastly, we look at how each brand handles support, returns, and standing by their gear if things go pear-shaped.
How to Choose the Best Gaming Chair for You
- Price
This’ll be the main deal-breaker for most folks. Heading in with a clear budget helps, since chairs can go from under fifty bucks to well over a grand. Cheaper units like the Corsair TC100 Relaxed still bring solid comfort, but you’ll have to go without fancier bits like 4D armrests or adjustable lumbar support. I’d give anything under a hundred a wide berth, especially if it’s making wild promises. - Design
Comfort’s king. Nobody wants to end up with a crook back or a neck full of regrets. Find something that suits your size and shape properly. Most chairs list their dimensions, so aim for a broad, padded seat, a tall backrest, and a decent range of height tweaks. All of that should be sitting on a tough metal frame that won’t buckle under you. If you’re looking at racing-style seats like the AndaSeat Kaiser 3, watch out for the side bolsters – they can dig into your legs if you don’t fit the mould. - Materials
Most chairs come in PU leather, fabric, or mesh. PU leather’s easy to wipe down but can crack over time and gets sticky on hot days. Fabric, like what you’ll find on the E-Win Champion, is cooler to sit on but a bit trickier to clean. Mesh breathes the best, but you’ll lose that plush seat feel in favour of a springy setup. The Razer Fujin Pro gets mesh right, but not every brand pulls it off. - Ergonomics
Once the basics are sorted, extra features can sweeten the deal. Adjustable armrests, a movable headrest, and proper lumbar support go a long way to keeping your body happy. Chairs with tilt and rocking options also help you relax between sessions, or when you’re just watching a cutscene or two.
Gaming Chair FAQ
So, what even is the point of a gaming chair?
Because gaming chairs are really just jazzed-up office chairs, their biggest selling point tends to be how they look. They often cost more than a decent office chair and usually miss out on some of the all-day comfort features you’d want for long work stints.
That said, if you’re chasing a certain aesthetic for your setup, the best gaming chairs can absolutely bring the wow factor. Just don’t expect miracles for your spine. If back support is your top priority, it’s worth checking out proper ergonomic office chairs instead.
How much should anybody spend on a a gaming chair?
You can grab a gaming chair for around A$120 or less, but that’s pretty much a shortcut to back pain. At that price point, you’re usually getting a flimsy plastic frame with a thin layer of fabric or fake leather slapped on top.
A good chair starts at around A$300, and that’s about as low as we’d comfortably go. Bumping your budget up to around A$450 opens the door to better materials, more reliable builds, and features worth having. Push higher and you’ll start seeing extras like built-in lumbar support, cooling gel layers, fancier ergonomic tweaks, and even RGB lighting kits if you’re chasing that full spaceship look.
In the end, it all comes down to what you value most; comfort, flashiness, or a solid mix of both.
Should you get a gaming chair or an office chair?
Not a bad question. Both office and gaming chairs have their perks, but it really depends on what you want. If you’re after something that looks the part and can lean way back, a gaming chair is a solid pick. If ergonomics and plenty of adjustments top your list, office chairs are usually the way to go.
That said, there’s plenty of overlap between them. Take the Steelcase Gesture: it’s an office chair but would look right at home on any streamer’s setup. Meanwhile, the Mavix M9 is a gaming chair but has the premium features you’d expect from a top-tier office seat.
Think about what matters most to you, how long you’ll be sitting, and which adjustments you want. From there, you’ll find options in both camps that fit the bill.
What’s the best brand of gaming chair?
Your usual gaming brands like Razer and Corsair are known for making top-notch chairs. Secretlab, Razer, and Corsair regularly deliver comfy, solidly built seats that strike a good balance between comfort and durability at different price points.
Traditional ergonomic brands like Herman-Miller, Steelcase, and Haworth have also started making chairs for gamers. They’re pricey but use the best materials and pack plenty of ergonomic features for top support and comfort.
Be careful with some brands found only on Amazon. The cheapest ones are often a bit rough around the edges. It’s usually better to save up and splash out on a trusted brand that’ll last.
Adam Mathew sits on a lot of chairs and is our Aussie deals wrangler. He plays practically everything, often on YouTube..
