gaming chairs vs. Office Chairs: What’s the Difference?

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Should gamers always choose a gaming chair over an office chair? Does an office chair better promote good posture? Let’s delve into the details that separate the two types of chairs.

What is a gaming chair?

Gaming chairs are bulky, with bold colors and bold designs. They are always ergonomically designed, providing full body support for extended periods. Gaming chairs have high, winged backs that support your neck and shoulders. They may also have adjustable and removable lumbar and cervical pillows.

These chairs recline quite a bit back, sometimes as much as 180 degrees. Realistically, you could fall asleep in a fully reclined chair. There is a wide variety of gaming chairs, including rocking chairs, swivel chairs, reclining chairs, and floor chairs. Some even come with built-in speakers and vibrators for a more immersive gaming experience.

Let’s take a closer look at these differences and what they mean to you.

Cost

Some people may think that gaming chairs cost more than office chairs, but this is not always the case. You’ll find that both chairs are in the $100-300 price range. They may come with similar features, if not the same. However, gaming chairs can offer more value, as they are often cheaper and have similar qualities to office chairs.

In a way, what you’re paying for with office chairs is the professional appearance. Gaming chairs are designed to look a bit more fun, which is what many gamers are looking for (more on that later). Office chairs, on the other hand, have a more modern and professional look that makes them suitable for any environment.

Long-term comfort and ergonomics

When purchasing any chair that you plan to spend a significant amount of time in, you should always choose an ergonomic one. Ergonomic chairs are designed to support your body while you sit. They promote good posture which can prevent body aches and pains.

Both gaming and office chairs can be ergonomic as they come with various features that are ideal for maximum comfort. The difference is that comfort is always important for a gamer, but less important for an office chair intended for light use, such as a library.

Comfort features include a waterfall seat edge that reduces pressure on the back of your thighs and adjustable armrests that you can rotate and move up or down. Either type of chair can also support your lower back with a built-in lumbar support or pillow. Usually the pillow will be adjustable, so you can position it exactly where you want it. There may also be an adjustable neck pillow for added comfort.

In terms of back support, gaming chairs typically come with a high, winged back that also supports your shoulders. You can keep your head against the chair to relieve pressure on your neck. Some office chairs also come with high backs, but they often come with a separate, adjustable headrest that you can swivel and move up and down.

Both types of chairs can often be reclined to 135 degrees, which at least one study showed was the best angle for the spine. Gaming chairs, however, can usually recline well past 135 degrees, but it’s not really necessary unless you want to lie back in your chair for a nap.

Appearance

Depending on where you plan to use your chair, appearance can be an important factor to consider. If you are using it in an office or professional setting, you may want to opt for a slimmer, more modern-looking chair.

Office chairs come in many different styles and designs that are ideal for offices (hence the name), professional and casual settings. They look much more conservative than gaming chairs. Colors are mostly earth tones like black, brown, or gray, but you can find some chairs with subtle patterns and designs. Office chairs are usually made of leather or mesh and look quite classic and polished. The constructions are usually quite slim, so they won’t take up too much space in the room.

Gaming chairs, on the other hand, are often designed to resemble race car seats, similar to what you’d see in an arcade. They will have much more striking, vibrant and bright tactical designs and patterns. Gaming chairs come in all sorts of colors, from basic black and white to bright pinks and reds. You’ll find chairs with racing stripes, camo patterns, and other eye-catching designs. This gives off the gamer aesthetic that many people enjoy, especially if they use it in their gaming or streaming setup.

Variety

If you’ve ever looked for gaming chairs, you may have come across a wide variety of unique styles. There are rocking chairs like the X Rocker, which literally rock back and forth and come with built-in speakers and vibrators to give you a more immersive gaming experience.

Swivel chairs like the Floor Chair from Best Choice are very versatile as they can be rotated 360 degrees. They’re foldable, easy to transport, and look a lot like movie theater chairs, except they’re more comfortable. There are even floor chairs like the bonVIVO that are designed to sit comfortably on the floor or reclining chairs that make you feel like you’re lying down.

As for office chairs, there is some variety, but their designs are not as exclusive as gaming chairs. Office chairs always have that professional appeal, so you won’t find fun add-ons like cup holders and speakers. The key variations in office chairs don’t go much beyond armrests, padding, and materials.

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