A good gaming chair is a healthy centerpiece of a work-from-home battle station. Surrounding it with the right accessories will give you the tools to take health, happiness, and productivity to a higher level. ChairsFX summarizes the best gaming chair accessories of 2022 — divided into physical support essentials and luxury extras.
In the old days, the point of a good workstation was to provide good back support for long periods of sitting. But in the modern era, computing habits have changed on two fronts.
First, most people now use mobile devices around 3 hours per day — usually with a severe forward head tilt. Second, as global computing times rise, activity levels plummet. That contributes to skyrocketing obesity, fatigue, depression, and related disorders.
As a result, updated ergonomic standards have emerged at institutional levels. Based on these, a healthy modern workstation should do two things.
First, it should provide good back and neck support. Second, it should also address sedentary computing problems.
Meanwhile, an emerging school of thought also touts psychological appeal as a comfort factor. A workstation that looks and feels pleasing can help users to maintain a relaxed, stress-free state.
Hence, our ‘best accessories’ rankings are split into two sections. The first lists useful accessories to enhance your gaming chair’s physical support qualities.
The second summarizes top add-ons to enhance psychological comfort and well-being.
Best Accessories For Physical Support
The point of a gaming chair is to support good posture over long periods of computing. Good posture relieves pressure on back muscles. That leaves more available energy to power the brain.
As a result, users enjoy a big energy boost that powers long, comfortable computing sessions. These accessories will provide the best physical support to enhance your gaming chair:
- Ergonomic footrest: sit taller; add leg movement; reduce thigh pressure.
- Adjustable Monitor Arms: avoid a tilted neck by setting your screens to the right height.
- Standing desk: supports sitting, standing, and mobile computing plus movement.
- Memory foam lumbar pillow: easy-to-use lumbar support upgrade.
- Yoga mat: compels stretching breaks between computing sessions.
Ergonomic Footrest
Sitting in healthy neutral postures demands both feet planted firmly on the floor. But most standard desks are between 28-30″ high. This is a problem for people 5’9″ (175 cm) or shorter.
In the above photo, a 5’4″ model sits at a desk 30″ high with planted feet. To sync his armrests with the desktop, he must raise them very high. That bunches up his shoulders. Then, instead of his arms falling freely, they do so at a sharp angle.
Over long periods, that position becomes extremely uncomfortable. An ergonomic footrest is the easiest way to fix this problem.
Ergonomic Footrest Benefits
Adding a footrest will let you sit taller at a desk. Then, you’ll be able to sit with planted feet, a desk set to the right height, and your chair’s armrests synced with the desk.
Beyond this advantage are two other notables:
- Enhanced neutral sitting: a footrest removes power absorption by the seat, sending it into the lower back instead. That curls through the hips and sends more pressure into your lumbar area. Good lumbar support makes it easier to sit up straight.
- Dynamic movement while sitting: while sitting in an upright position, a footrest lets you work your calves and ankles. This keeps circulation robust, yielding an energizing effect while sitting.
Why All Gamers 5’10” Or Shorter Need An Ergonomic Footrest
Mind Reader Footrest
Amazon price: $26.99
I use this product while working on ChairsFX. It’s a hard plastic footrest with a pebbled, height-adjustable surface.
The feet balance atop the pebbled surface, with freedom to tilt the ankles forward or back. Unit specs:
- Length x width: 4.4″ (L) x 18.4″ (W)
- Height: 1 inch (lowest); 4.7″ (middle); 6″ (highest setting)
In 2 years of using this footrest, my only issue was the synthetic plastic feel. Over long periods of sitting, it can get warm and clammy when used with bare feet. The solution: wear socks while using one.
Mind Reader Footrest on Amazon $26.99
Everlasting Comfort Footrest
Amazon price: $37.99
If the plastic cover of the Mind Reader seems off-putting, this model replaces it with a singular slab of memory foam. Over the top is a removable, machine-washable velour cover.
This unit lacks the tilting platform and pebbled surface of the Mind Reader footrest. However, its soft velour cover absorbs heat, while the memory foam underneath molds to the nuances of your feet. Specs:
- Length x width: 4.75″ (L) x 17″ (W)
- Height: 9.5 inches
Everlasting Comfort Footrest on Amazon $37.99
Learn more about footrest health and wellness benefits in this feature article.
Desk-Mounted Monitor Arms
The problem of computing with a forward neck tilt caused a buzz during 2020 lockdowns. Then, millions started working from home (WFH) — without the right equipment. A study of WFH faculty at the U. of Cincinnati noted that most were only provided with a laptop.
Many made do using ‘makeshift’ desks (legs, pillows, etc). Others used their laptops at desks without accessories. Both styles promote a severe forward neck tilt. That explains why 62% reported moderate to severe pain in the upper back and shoulders!
To prevent a forward neck tilt, the study suggested that users connect their laptops to external screens. Desk-mounted monitor arms take this concept one step further.
These replace standard screen stands with adjustable arms. Using one makes it easy to ensure a straight neck posture while computing at a desk!
Beyond height adjustment, desk-mounted arms also help to reduce desktop clutter. Many studies have shown that clean, uncluttered workspaces boost motivation and happiness!
North Bayou Dual Arms
These are among the best-value arms available today. The North Bayou Dual Monitor Arms support two 17-27″ screens weighing up to 19.8 pounds each.
Both are powered by a premium gas lift and offer full adjustability. Once attached, each screen can rotate 360°; tilt from +85° to -30°; swivel ±90°. Each arm has cable management routers built in.
There’s also a pair of USB ports built into the base. Attaching it to a desk is super simple by using a desk clamp system. I’ve used a pair of these for over two years with zero complaints. They’re easy to use, look great, and durable!
North Bayou Dual Arms on Amazon $55.90
Secretlab Magnus Pro Dual Arms
Despite my love for North Bayou arms, I’ve replaced them with a set of pricey Secretlab Magnus Pro ones. These support 2 x 34″ screens with a hefty 35-pound capacity per arm.
Besides a heavier weight capacity, these do the same job as the North Bayou version. Both are fully adjustable with simple clamp systems and built-in cable management. However, I deemed them worth it to match the styling of my Magnus Pro desk.
Browse More Options: Beginners Guide To Desk-Mounted Monitor Arms
Standing Desk
The Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics documents ergonomic trends at the institutional design level. Every decade, it updates its standards to address evolving desk worker needs. The 5th edition came out in late 2021.
As cell phone usage skyrockets worldwide, its latest standards go beyond good back support. Today, modern desk workers need multi-device support for the back and neck.
They also need solutions that address skyrocketing sedentary behaviors. Sit-to-stand desks fill both requirements.
Each shift from a sitting to a standing position replicates a squat. Every time you squat, you’re working your hips, legs, and back muscles in unison. That provides a refreshing jolt of energy and a nice blood circulation boost as well.
Best Standing Desks
A good standing desk can be any that fits your size. This desk sizing guide lists suggested heights for various sizes. For example, someone 5’2″ tall should seek a minimum adjustable height of 25″.
Other basic specs to look out for include the table width, the surface material, and the reliability of the maker. Luxury extras include built-in cable management, solid wood tabletops, super-sturdy legs, 15-year warranties, etc.
Dozens of basic standing desks are available on Amazon for less than $400. The best desks among reputable premium brands cost between $500 to $1200. Here at ChairsFX, I’m using a flashy Secretlab Magnus Pro:
A standalone Magnus Pro desk costs $799 from Secretlab. A fully-loaded version with dual monitor arms, a PC Mount, a cable management bundle, and all the trimmings costs $1541.
Competing options include the Uplift V2 and Flexispot E7 Pro. Fully-loaded versions of both lack the pizzaz of the Magnus Pro. Even so, both are cheaper, sturdier, and backed by 15-year warranties! Browse our top picks of 2022:
Memory Foam Lumbar Pillow
Many first-time ergonomic chair users struggle to get their lumbar support set right. For instance, when using a cheap gaming chair lumbar pillow for the first time, it’s easy to use it the wrong way.
Setting it too low will curl your hips forward. Setting it too high will cause your upper body to slouch. Adjusting it to the right height fills your lower back curve with the pressure it needs. Then, sitting up straight becomes easy.
As well, most cheap gaming chairs have stiff pillows that take time to compress. That may result in a gap between your spine and the backrest. While these do support the spine, they also negate the backrest, the backrest, leaving their upper body exposed.
At present, Secretlab beats Amazon options for one simple reason. Its lumbar pillows compress as you lean back — until your spine hits the backrest.
The only part that expands is within your particular lumbar curve. That makes these a lot easier to get right, especially for ergonomic beginners.
Secretlab Memory Foam Lumbar Pillow
For some reason, Secretlab seems to be the standout maker of memory foam pillows. There are two reasons. First, its 11.4″ x 11.4″ velour-covered pillows offer perfect compression. This proved a hit that became extremely popular.
In response, Secretlab has built up a wild array of similar pillows with custom designs. Each velour cover has a zipper. That allows you to remove it for washing. Even so, in 2 years of using mine, I’ve not yet seen a need.
Each costs $59. If your cheap gaming is hurting your back, here’s one potential solution. Instead of ditching your cheap chair and buying another, you might try upgrading its lumbar support with a Secretlab version.
Unlike Amazon pillows, it compresses enough for your spine to touch the backrest. It’s also easy to use. Instead of adjusting the height, simply chuck it behind, position it roughly, and lean back.
I’ve used mine as an upgrade with DXRacer, Anda Seat, GTRacing, and many other chairs. In all of them, this pillow provides better lumbar support every time!
Learn more: Secretlab Lumbar Pillow Benefits And Available Designs
Secretlab Omega Lumbar Pillows $59
Special Edition pillows are also available (Warcraft, Harry Potter, League of Legends) from Secretlab for $59.
Yoga Mat
This one should be a no-brainer. The point of a gaming chair is to support good posture while you sit. This process isn’t automatic. First-timers who start with poor posture will need time to adapt.
While that happens, muscle soreness is almost guaranteed. If you’re not used to sitting with good posture, your muscles will need time to adapt.
I’ve found the process resembles trying yoga for the first time. In both cases, you’ll end up stretching muscles that are used to being tight. As muscles expand, initial tenderness is a positive sign.
A nice benefit of this process is greater body awareness. You’ll notice back tightness, shoulder stiffness, and other signs of discomfort. That’s where a yoga mat comes in.
There are tons of cheap options available on Amazon. Grabbing a style that you like will grease the wheels of your gaming chair experience.
Learn more: Mental and Physical Benefits of Active Microbreaks
Best Psychological Luxury Add-Ons
Comfort is a state of mind influenced by physical, physiological, and psychological factors. This textile study(1) cites four clothing comfort factors also relevant to gaming chair accessories.
- Thermal: the body feels satisfied with the resulting warmth/ coolness and moisture absorption.
- Sensorial: the sensation of the material against the skin. Problems may include stiffness, prickling, or itching.
- Proper fit: the garment should provide freedom of movement while supporting the wearer’s body type.
- Psychological comfort: colors, aesthetics, and trendiness all boost appeal. The suitability of the clothing for the occasion is also important.
Appeasing any of the above psych factors will indirectly support good posture. When adults feel mental stress, their discipline falls apart(2). Stressed desk workers are prone to binge eating, irregular sleep habits, and sloppy sitting habits.
Thus, by maintaining a psychologically-pleasing workstation, you’re more likely to use it to its fullest potential. These accessories can help:
- Armrest pads: sensorial bliss for your elbows and forearms.
- Purple Seat Cushion: an extra layer of high-tech seat padding for those with dainty bums.
- Gaming chair floor mats: keep your feet warm while spicing up your aesthetics.
- Upholstery slipcovers: cover up stains or tears; protect your chair from pets.
Armrest Pads
Standard gaming chair armrests are usually covered in firm, slightly compressive PU caps. Those with sensitive elbows may find these uncomfortable. If so, armrest pads provide a plush solution.
Aloudy Armrest pads
Amazon Price: $18.99
Aloudy Armrest Pads contain 100% memory foam padding. As you rest your elbows, these provide spongy resistance to soothe your forearm’s pressure points.
These easily slip over the top of your existing chair’s arms. Pads are 9.5 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches (fits chair arms from 6″ to 11″).
Aloudy Armrest pads are finished in soft polyester velvet, easy to use, and very comfortable. On the downside, they’re a bit gaudy, and not a perfect fit on every set of arms.
Secretlab Plushcell Armrest Top
Secretlab Price: $79
Secretlab’s Plushcell armrests are the next evolution of the gaming chair armrest top. These work exclusively with Titan Evo 2022 Series chairs. These chairs are the industry’s first with removable armrest caps.
Plushcell caps come in black, silver, and pink. They’re a few millimeters thicker than standard caps, with a bit more cushioning.
Personally, I’ve never had a problem with standard gaming chair armrests. Even so, I’ve found my silver Plushcell tops a delightful upgrade.
For one thing, the aesthetic boost of light-colored armrests is superb. For another, the extra softness on my forearms adds an extra shot of posh luxury to the experience. Are these worth it? If luxury is important to you, yes!
Plushcell Armrest Tops $79 From Secretlab
Learn more: Secretlab Plushcell Armrest Tops: Intriguing Titan Upgrade
Gamechanger Purple Seat Cushion
Gaming chairs come padded in varying qualities of foam padding. Cheaper chairs have softer padding; premium ones are usually firmer.
Firmer padding delivers the stability you need to sit with good posture. But some people complain that stiff padding feels like a rock! If you’re struggling to adjust, a Purple Gamechanger Seat Cushion is a popular solution.
The Gamechanger is an 18 x 22 x 2.5″ (LxWxH) slab made from Hyper-Elastic Polymer. As you sit, the grid cradles your tailbone while providing cushioning for the rest of the seat.
Air channels infused into the material ensure temperature-neutral support. The removable cover is machine-washable. To clean the grid itself, give it a good scrub with water and soap.
On Amazon, there are dozens of copycat models selling for under $40. Don’t be fooled. The brand’s name is “Purple” and its flagship product is called the “Gamechanger”. It’s widely regarded as the best gaming cushion money can buy.
Gaming Chair Floor Mat
Gaming chair mats protect hard floors. Over carpets, they make it easier to move your chair around. They also prevent static buildup, while keeping your feet warm.
My Captain America version lasted for a few years before it disintegrated. Then I tried out a rectangular 47 x 39″ GTRacing floor mat. It provided much better coverage, but less grippiness. As a result, it often got snagged in my chair’s wheels.
Based on my experiences, round mats with grippy bottoms work best.
Yincimar Gaming Mat
On Amazon, the Yincimar floor mat ticks all the boxes. It’s a 47 x 47″ circle with a grippy rubber bottom and a smooth polyester microfiber fabric surface.
The top design features a gaming controller with neon effects. There’s no warranty listed. Based on my circular mat experiences, you can expect around 2 years at 6-10 machine washes before it starts to disintegrate.
Yincimar Gaming Chair Mat on Amazon $31.77
Cooler Master FM510 Floor Mat
The Cooler Master FM510 floor mat has a striking design. On the top is deep purple artwork depicting the Cooler Master Mystery Gamer. The surface is splash-proof — if you spill a drink, it won’t seep in.
On the bottom is a natural rubber underside 3 mm thick. Around the edges is reinforced anti-fray stitching. You can machine wash in cold water and hang dry. Although pricier than generic mats, this model has a high-quality feel and superb grippiness.
Cooler Master Mat on Amazon $54.99
Learn more: Best Gaming Chair Floor Mats
Upholstery Slipcover
A gaming chair slipcover is an easy way to hide upholstery damage. It can also be used to protect new gaming chairs from pets or young children.
Deisy Dee Gaming Chair Slipcovers
Price: $16.99
Deisy Dee Slipcovers fit most gaming chairs with adjustable armrests. Made from 85% polyester, 15% Spandex fabric, they are easy to put on so that they maintain a snug fit.
Note that the cover material is very thin. As protection against heat buildup, it doesn’t help much. The main appeal is protection and aesthetics.
Deisy Dee Slipcovers on Amazon on Amazon $16.99
LJNGG Gaming Chair Slipcovers
Price: $28.59
LJNGG Slipcovers are a Deisy Dee alternative. Made from spandex, LJNGG covers are slip-proof, dustproof, and machine-washable.
Dimensions should fit most gaming chairs:
- Backrest height: fits 31.50″ to 34.65″
- Backrest width: 22.05″ to 25.20″
- Seat width: 20.08″ to 23.62″
- Seat depth: 15.75″-20.47″
Conclusion
A good workstation should support good posture while desktop and mobile computing. It should also encourage movement rather than inertia throughout a workday. A super-basic setup that (sort of) meets these requirements costs under $400.
The ergonomic chair will support your spine. The external screens and mouse/ keyboard kit will help to prevent a forward neck tilt. But support without any psychological appeal can also feel like a major bummer.
Thus, the best accessories for a gaming chair may provide physical or psychological support. Once you’ve assembled the right kit to support your back and soothe your senses, put everything together with this setup guide:
Ultimate Work-From-Home Setup Guide For Ergonomic Beginners
Footnotes
- ScienceDirect. ‘Psychological Factors’, Encyclopedia of Biomedical Engineering, 2019. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/psychological-factor, (accessed September 24, 2022).
- Karen Angelo. ‘New Research Links Stress at Work to Unhealthy Lifestyles’, Umas Lowell, 2 Feb. 2016, https://www.uml.edu/news/stories/2016/workerstress.aspx, (accessed 19 Feb. 2022).
