What’s the best big and tall gaming chair on the market in 2022? The answer depends on your body type — and seating preferences. Based on the science, full-back gaming chairs provide better support for obese sizes. In contrast, slim figures 6’0″ or taller will prosper with a good mid-back office-style chair. So if you’re larger than average, find your perfect seating here. ChairsFX reviews the best gaming chairs for big guys available in 2022.
Based on global size averages, ‘tall’ men are defined as 6’1″ or taller; a tall woman is 5’7″ or more. ‘Big’ sizes of all genders are either overweight (25+ BMI) or obese (30+ BMI).
Big and tall body types both have unique musculoskeletal challenges:
- Obese sizes: have weaker spines that make it harder to sit straight.
- Taller sizes: develop longer but not thicker bones that encourage slouching.
The best big and tall gaming chairs address both of these challenges. All bodies 5’10” or taller will find a taller backrest designed for longer spines. For instance, here’s a 6’5″ slim user modeling Secretlab and Anda Seat XL chairs:
The taller backrest provides good support for his larger-than-normal spine length. As a result, he also enjoys a good headrest and lumbar support fit.
Beyond catering to tall sizes, the best XL desk chairs also serve all body types with flat, wide seat styles. Our slim model (6’5″, 185 lbs) shows off the difference — flat seat edges provide more room for larger bodies.
Best Full-Back XL Gaming Chairs
When people gain weight, their skeletal system does not grow to compensate. Instead, the entire musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles) must work harder. Over time, excess strain weakens the spine and surrounding muscles(1). That makes it harder to sit up straight.
This is why full-back, racing-style gaming chairs provide the best ergonomic support for heavy bodies. Instead of forcing users to sit upright, they can ease into it using deeper reclines. As back muscles get stronger, sitting up straight will get easier.
Our top XL picks are designed for tall sizes (5’10” and up) of all body types (slim to obese) with support for 400+ pounds. Prices range from $399 to $674:
- Secretlab Titan Evo 2022: best overall | $599-$674
- AKRacing Master Series Max: widest seat space | $472.00
- Anda Seat Kaiser 3: solid Titan 2022 clone | Price not available
- E-Win Flash XL: wide seat and 550 pound support | $399
- Cheap XL gaming chairs: premium features and 400-pound support for less than $300
Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 XL
$599-$674 from Secretlab
Rated #1
From a sizing perspective, the Titan Evo XL is the perfect big and tall gaming chair on two fronts. First, the backrest is tall enough to support sizes up to 6’9″. Second, the seat’s flat edges provide enough space for most thick sizes.
As well, the Titan’s lumbar and headrest adjustability is better than other XL chairs. As a result, shorter users wanting a wide seat can also make use of it. Here’s my (5’10”) fit in a Titan XL vs that of our 6’5″ model:
Find below a quick summary of its key features and sizing specifications.
Titan EVO XL features
There are three standouts relevant for all sizes. The first is a 4-way adjustable integrated lumbar support system. It’s the first gaming chair lumbar in the world with depth and height adjustability.
The second is the magnetic memory foam headrest pillow. Without straps, you get a massive 11-inch range of adjustment — more than any other gaming chair.
The third key notable is the seat. Instead of ridged edges, it has gently sloping ones. Soft edges help guide the legs to the center of the seat — without restriction.
As a result, thick users needing the full 22.8″ seat width can do so without issue.
Summary of Titan XL Specs
The Titan 2022 XL is rated for sizes 5’11” and up. Even so, it’s possible for shorter, thicker sizes to make use of this chair. See our Titan 2022 Series Size-Hacking Guide for details.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; multifunction tilt-lock; recline from 85-165°.
- New 2022 Series Features: integrated 3D-adjustable lumbar support; magnetic headrest pillow; pebble seat base with waterfall edge.
- Sizing: small 4’11” to 5’6″; medium 5’7″ to 6’2″; XL 5’11” to 6’9″.
- Warranty: five years.
| Dimension | Titan Evo 2022 XL | Titan 2020 XL |
| Seat | 22.8″ (W) x 19.7″ (D) | 22.6″ (W) x 19.9″ (D) |
| Backrest | 22″ (W) x 35″ (H) | 22″ (W) x 33.5″ (H) |
| Seat height | 18.1″ to 21.9″ | 19.1″ to 22.8″ |
| Size rating | 5’11” to 6’9″; 395 pounds | 5’11” to 6’10”; 390 pounds |
Titan XL Advice
Beyond catering to a larger range of sizes, the Titan’s superior adjustability is also good for your back. With the right settings and a 100° backrest recline, it provides biomechanically-perfect neutral posture support.
That includes a 25-45° lower back curve and a 0° neck tilt. I recently switched to sitting this way as a means to correct a forward neck tilt caused by excessive texting. I’ve not been able to achieve such biomechanical precision in any other gaming chair.
But the Titan also lets you sit however you want. Even those with wide hips and thick legs will be able to enjoy a wide range of sitting positions.
- 4-way lumbar support
- Strapless magnetic headrest with 11″ range
- 45+ leatherette and fabric styles
- 5-year warranty
- Flat, wide, spacious seat
- Very expensive!
It’s also worth noting that the XL edition comes in a whopping 45+ styles. There’s a style here for all tastes. Check out this Titan Color Psychology report for a closer look at the style options.
Bottom line: the most advanced gaming chair on the market deserves its hype. If you can handle the high up-front cost, the Titan XL is an excellent long-term investment.
Learn more: Titan Evo 2022 Series Review
Titan EVO XL from Secretlab for $599-$674
Available from Secretlab in North America, the EU and UK, Oceania, and Singapore.
AKRacing Masters Series Max
$472.00 from Amazon
Rated #2
For around $100 less than the Titan, the AKRacing Master Series Max is a solid alternative. It comes with a massive 23.5″ seat, premium ergonomic features, and a similar 5-year warranty.
AKRacing is one of the oldest and most well-established gaming chair brands. Since 2008, this company has focused on making consistently durable products.
That focus on consistency comes at the expense of aesthetic development. As a result, the Master Series Max design hasn’t evolved in years. It’s an old-school, classic racing-style design.
Master Series Max Features
Compared to the Titan XL, the Master Series Max has less sophisticated features. Even so, they do the same job. Instead of integrated lumbar support, the Max has a lumbar pillow attached to straps (unlimited adjustment range). Its XL headrest also attaches with straps.
You can slide the lumbar up and down to fit your lower back curve. Unlike the Titan’s integrated system, pillows on straps often fall out of place and need readjustment. As well, compared to the Titan XL headrest’s massive 11″ range, the Master Max version is a lot less adjustable.
Sizing specs of note include the extra-wide seat (23.5″) and extra-low seat height. The Max caters to short, wide bodies with an extra-low 14.4″ seat.
However, paired with a regular-sized desk, that might seat you too low for comfort. The simple solution, in that case, is to add an ergonomic footrest.
- Functionality: padded 4D adjustable armrests; recline to 180°; multifunction tilt-lock.
- Comfort: extra wide seat; 70% more cold foam padding; lumbar cushion & neck support pillows.
- Upholstery: breathable PU leather in black or black with colored trim.
- Warranty: 5 years on parts; 10 years on the metal frame.
This model has larger dimensions than the Titan. It should fit most people up to Andre the Giant levels.
- Seat width x depth: 23″ (W) x 20.3″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 24.4″ (W) x 34.2″ (H)
- Floor to seat range: 14.4″ to 17.25″
- Size rating: 5’7″ to 6’7″ and up to 400 pounds
Master Series Max advice
The Master Series Max is the best big and tall gaming chair for extra-wide sizes. It has the widest seat, supports 400 pounds, and comes guaranteed for 5 years. Because of its low seat height, it’s also a good fit for wide sizes with short legs.
Compared to the Titan 2022’s semi-stiff 65 kg/m³ padding, the Max serves up a softer, fluffier 55 kg/m³. That’s more comfortable in the short term. On the downside, it provides less consistency and stability than firmer padding.
- Massive seat with flat edges
- Fluffier padding than the Titan
- 5-year warranty
- Retro designs that show no evolution
Another downside: compared to the ultra-modern Titan Evo 2022, the Max chair’s features are basic. Its sliding lumbar pillow on straps lacks the precision (and depth control) of an integrated unit. As well, its headrest adjustability range is a lot smaller.
Bottom line: the Titan and Master Max both do a good job at promoting good posture. The Titan beats the Max with better aesthetics and adjustability. On the flip side, the Max is cheaper — and also a better fit for ultra-wide heavyweight sizes.
Learn more: Best AKRacing Chairs Of 2022.
Masters Series Max from AKRacing $569
The Master Series Max is also available on Amazon for $472.00.
Anda Seat Kaiser 3 Series
Price not available on Amazon
Rated #3
Anda Seat’s new flagship chair replaces its Kaiser 2 and T-Pro 2 Series versions. Both supported sizes up to 6’8″ and 440 pounds. The new Anda Seat Kaiser 3 is available in medium and XL sizes. The XL edition supports users up to 6’10” with a 396-pound weight capacity.
My test model is a medium-sized Kaiser 3 in Creamy Pink. The XL version has similar dimensions as the old T-Pro 2 chair. The above photos show my 5’9″ frame in both the new and old.
The new Kaiser 3 differs from the old versions in three significant ways. First, Kaiser 3 chairs come in an updated array of styles. Second, they all have flat seat edges instead of bladed ones. That ensures more legroom for thicker bodies.
Most significantly, the Kaiser 3 copies the best features of the Titan 2022 chair.
T-Pro 2 Series Features
Just like the Titan 2022, the Kaiser 3 comes with a 4-way integrated lumbar and magnetic headrest. My test model is a medium-sized Creamy Pink edition. It’s a gorgeous chair that really lights up a room:
In a head-to-head comparison with a Titan 2022, the Kaiser 3’s padding is significantly softer. Otherwise, features are (on paper) almost identical:
- Lumbar support: integrated, height and depth-adjustable
- Headrest: magnetic strapless memory foam pillow with cooling gel insert
- Padding: 55kg/mᶟ one-piece molded foam
- Adjustments: 90-165° recline; 4D armrests; multifunction tilt lock
- Add-on: Magnetic mounted retractable tabletop
- Warranty: two years
Kaiser 3 Series chairs come in medium and XL sizes. Anda Seat rates the medium version able to fit sizes 4’11” to 6’3″. But based on my tests, that’s overly optimistic. In my opinion, people 5’5″ and up will find the best fit in the medium version.
| Spec | Large | XL |
| Seat | 20.2″ (W) x 19.6″ (D) | 20.8″ (W) x 22.4″ (D) |
| Backrest | 21.2″ (W) x 33.4″ (H) | 22.8″ (W) x 33.4″ (H) |
| Seat height | 17-19.6″ | 17.3-20″ |
| Size rating | 6’0″ to 6’10”, 396 pounds |
This leaves two great options for overweight/ obese sizes. Shorter bodies can choose the medium edition; taller, thicker types can enjoy the XL size.
Kaiser 3 Advice
In a hands-on, head-to-head comparison, I found the Titan 2022 a better chair than the Kaiser 3. For one thing, I prefer the stability that the Titan’s firmer padding provides.
For another, the Titan feels like a more refined sitting experience. The lumbar support adjusts with a smoother feel, while the headrest feels like a softer, more comfortable fit.
- Excellent adjustability
- Beautiful styles
- Some will prefer its soft, fluffy padding.
- Not as refined as the Titan chair
- Hard, stiff headrest.
On the flip side, those who dislike the Titan’s semi-stiff padding will love the Kaiser 3’s softer, spongier feel. As well, while the adjustability isn’t as refined as the Titan, it does a similar job.
As a final tip, I find the Kaiser 3 most comfortable with a 110° backrest recline. At that angle, it comfortably supports long periods of healthy desk work.
Learn more: Titan Evo 2022 vs Anda Seat Kaiser 3
The Kaiser 3 Series is also available on Amazon for Price not available.
EWin Flash XL
$399 $499 from E-Win
Rated #4
E-Win is an under-the-radar brand that makes affordable, full-featured XL gaming chairs. All models support up to 400 pounds. The largest Flash XL edition supports a whopping 550 pounds.
All but one Flash XL version comes with bladed seat edges. Like Anda Seat chairs, these restrict legroom. Luckily, the all-black FLH edition has flat seat edges suitable for ultra-wide 500-pounders.
Flash XL Features
Flash XL chairs have the same features as AKRacing and Anda Seat chairs. Highlights include 4D arms, a multifunction tilt-lock, and deep recline functionality. It falls behind the other two with a basic 2-year warranty.
As well, the Flash XL exceeds the weight capacity of both competitors with support for 550 pounds.
- Functionality: 4D adjustable armrests; recline from to 85°-155°; multifunction tilt-lock.
- Comfort: ultra-dense cold foam padding; neck and lumbar pillows.
- Cover material: premium PU leather.
- Warranty: two years on parts, ten years on the metal frame.
- Seat width x depth: 22″ (W) x 20.3″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 23″ (W) x 39″ (H)
- Floor to seat range: 16.5″ to 20.5″
- Chair height: 55.5″ to 59.5″
- Size rating: 5’7″ to 7’0″; max weight limit 550 pounds
Flash XL (FLH Edition) advice
The Flash XL FLH edition is like a cheaper version of the AKRacing Master Max. Both have premium features and a flat, ridgeless seat. The Flash XL is also cheaper — up front.
However, with a 2-year warranty, the Flash XL works out to $199.50 per year. In contrast, the Master Max ($569 / 5-year warranty) averages $113 per year.
- Support for 550 pounds
- Flat, spacious seat
- Premium features
- Cheaper than competitors
- Limited 2-year warranty
- Lower build quality than competitors
That’s the only quibble. Considering its premium features and massive weight limit, the Flash XL is still a bargain. Tall, extra-wide users will enjoy a great fit in a Flash XL. As well, given its low 16.5-20.5″ seat height, it’s also a decent option for short, thick sizes.
Bottom line: it’s affordable, spacious, and full-featured. If you’d rather shave a few dollars than splash out on luxuries, the Flash XL is a solid, sensible choice.
Use the coupon code ChairsFX for 20% off. Learn more: Ewin Flash XL review.
Flash XL FLH from E-Win $399 $499
The Flash XL FLH (all-black edition) is also available on Amazon for $509.00.
Cheap XL Gaming Chairs Under $300
In 2022, four cheap XL gaming chairs are solid alternatives to pricier ones. For instance, the top-rated Fantasylab 8247 has the same features as premium XL chairs do.
Highlights include 4D arms, a multifunction tilt, an extra-wide seat, and support for 440 pounds. It’s also affordable, priced at $314.96 on Amazon.
Of course, there’s a catch. Like most sub-$300 XL chairs, the 8247 is only guaranteed for one year. It won’t last as long, but will deliver a premium experience while it does. For other affordable options, see this:
Mid-Back Office Chair XL Alternatives
In 2022, a ‘gaming chair’ can be any type of desk chair with ergonomic functionality. Mid-back ergonomic office chairs come with limited reclines that force users to sit straight at all times.
This style of seating is an excellent option for sizes 5’10” or taller. Tall bodies grow larger bones to compensate. But these usually grow longer but not thicker. As a result, a tall person’s muscles must work harder to stabilize longer limbs(2).
As well, most office furniture is designed to support normal sizes (shorter than 6’1″ for men, and under 5’7″ for women). Taller people using a workstation too small are more vulnerable to a forward head tilt.
In contrast, overweight and obese body types typically develop extremely weak back muscles. In those cases, full-back gaming chairs with deep recline functionality are ideal.
But some tall sizes near the obesity threshold (30 BMI) may still prefer a mid-back, office-style seat. Luckily, a few options are available.
Mid-Back Office Chairs For Tall, Obese Sizes
The office chair industry doesn’t cater to XL sizes as well as the gaming chair industry does. There are only a handful of models supporting 400 pounds with ergonomic features.
Most chairs in this genre stack adjustable arms and lumbar support — with a non-reclining backrest. Here are some popular options:
This model supports 500 pounds with an extra-wide 25.5″ seat. Features include 4-way adjustable lumbar support, 1D armrests, and a rocking function (no recline).
Review | Buy now: $318.69
The Sadie chair supports 400 pounds and has a 22″ seat width. Its features include height-adjustable lumbar support, 2D armrests, and a rocking function (no recline).
Review | Buy now: $297.11
For more options in this genre, see this review:
Elite Ergonomic Office Chairs For Tall Sizes
There are no world-class ergonomic chairs available for tall, obese sizes. On the flipside, tall and slim (or slightly overweight) users have Herman Miller’s two flagship chairs to consider.
The Size C Herman Miller Aeron supers sizes up to 6’6″ and 350 pounds. The Embody chair fits users as tall as 6’2″ and up to 300 pounds.
Supports sizes up to 6’2″ with a 300-pound weight capacity. It prioritizes support to the upper back — lumbar support is secondary. This is a bit trickier to master than traditional chairs. Success gets you the best (seated) upper back and neck support in the world — ideal for tall people with poor neck posture.
Embody Gaming Chair Review | Buy: $1795
Supports sizes 5’10” to 6’6″ with a 350-pound weight capacity. Highlights include ultra-adaptive mesh, robust sync-tilt functionality, and foolproof posture support. Hard bladed seat edges make it uncomfortable to put your feet up. With both feet planted, sitting straight becomes almost effortless.
Aeron Remastered Review | Buy: $1695
Bottom line: if you’re larger than either Herman Miller chair’s size ratings, world-class ergonomic chairs won’t fit. That leaves cheap XL office chairs or full-back gaming chairs as your only ergonomic options.
Conclusion: Best XL Ergonomic Chairs
What’s the best big and tall gaming chair on the market in 2022? This article makes a few things clear. Given global average sizes, the ‘tall’ threshold for women is 5’7″ and 6’2″ for men. Thus, XL gaming chairs are primarily for men 5’10” and taller.
Second, by 2022 ergonomic standards, a ‘gaming chair’ can be any type of ergonomic seating. Full-back, racing-style chairs provide excellent support for overweight bodies with weak spines.
Meanwhile, the stricter posture support of a mid-back chair is a good fit for tall, slim sizes. These support styles also impact the overall sitting experience.
If you prefer sitting in sharp neutral postures all the time, a mid-back chair is ideal. But if you want more varied support for both strict and relaxed styles, a full-back gaming chair is the way to go. Learn more:
Full Back Gaming Chairs Vs Mid-Back Office Chairs
Footnotes
- Brittany D.Bulbrook, et al. ‘Higher body mass index and body fat percentage correlate to lower joint and functional strength in working age adults’. Applied Ergonomics Volume 95, September 2021, 103453. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003687021001009, (accessed 22 August 2022).
- Jesse Cannone. ‘Is Back Pain More Likely If You’re Tall?’ September 15, 2015. https://losethebackpain.com/is-back-pain-more-likely-if-youre-tall/, (accessed 22 August 2022).
