A good gaming chair provides physical comfort by supporting good sitting posture. The upholstery laid over the top of the chair impacts psychological (perceived) comfort. Standard faux leather models deliver a formal office-style look. In contrast, fabric chairs are softer and more breathable, with a cozier aesthetic. Would you rather work from home all day wearing leather pants or plush luxury pajamas? If the latter, check out these rankings: best fabric gaming chairs of 2024.
In the car seat industry, upholstery serves as the ‘interface’ between the human body and the seat. It significantly affects the perceived comfort of a seat(1).
Car seat upholstery comfort factors include aesthetics, sensory appeal, thermal consistency, and even pressure distribution(2). These comfort factors also apply to gaming chairs.
Aesthetically, fabric-upholstered chairs have a more casual look than faux leather ones. On the sensory level, fabric upholstery won’t touch any skin while sitting (clothed) in a gaming chair.
Even so, you can feel its texture through your clothes. That provides a better butt grip than slick, semi-slippery faux leather upholstery.
Regarding thermals, enhanced breathability helps fabric-upholstered seats maintain consistent temperatures over long computing sessions.
Combined, these aspects explain why many prefer fabric gaming chairs over faux leather ones: they’re softer and more breathable, with a more casual look.
Premium Fabric Gaming Chairs Ranked
Aesthetics, sensory appeal, thermals, and correct pressure distribution. These dictate the potential comfort of a car seat. This review ports these factors over to fabric gaming chairs as secondary ranking factors.
In my experience, all fabric chairs offer similar sensory appeal and thermal consistency. Pressure distribution varies; firmer padded seats like Secretlab’s Titan provide a more even spread. In contrast, squishier seats are more comfortable — in the short term.
Thus, this review prioritizes the value for money of the chair under the skin. Value for money = back support quality and features + price + length of warranty .
As a third ranking factor, I consider the quality of the fabric upholstery. There, Secretlab’s Softweave fabric stands out; the rest have a cookie-cutter consistency.
Using this formula, here are my top-ranked fabric gaming chairs of 2024:
- Secretlab Titan EVO Softweave Gaming Chair: best upholstery and features ($549-$664).
- E-Win CPG: Titan Evo clones with 400-pound support and 5-year warranties. ($335.20).
- Razer Iskur: foolproof lumbar support drives its insane popularity ($499).
- Anda Seat Kaiser 3: A softer, squisher, more casual version of the Titan Evo ($449.99).
- Noblechairs Epic TX: sleek German design + premium features (Price not available).
- AKRacing Core Series EX: prosumer features, plain fabric styling, 5-year warranty (Price not available).
- Cheap Amazon chairs: Amazon offers many cheap fabric gaming chairs. (Under $200)
Secretlab Titan EVO 2022 SoftWeave Series
$549-$644 from Secretlab | Rated #1
For the past two years, I’ve had a Titan Evo Ash Leatherette and Cookies and Cream fabric chair in my home office. I ended up using the Cookies and Cream fabric chair 90% of the time. It’s been a fantastic experience.
Functionally, the Titan Evo is (in my experience) an almost perfect gaming chair. The height x depth adjustable integrated lumbar + magnetic headrest make it very easy to maintain good sitting posture. As well, the 65 kg/m³ provides firm, very comfortable weight distribution.
The fabric skin over top adds an extra layer of decadence. Traditional fabrics use a flat, tight basket weave. In contrast, SoftWeave Plus interlaces loops of high-tensile yarn fibers. That enhances breathability by allowing more air to pass through.
This process also allows greater design control over every thread. Each style boasts exquisite detailing with smart color palettes that produce distinct effects.
The combination of softness, breathability and styling has made Softweave chairs a massive hit. Because of voracious user demand, there are now sixteen SoftWeave fabric styles available.
Titan Evo Key Features
The Titan Evo 2022 stands out with two groundbreaking features. Its integrated lumbar support lets you adjust both the height and depth. A matrix of 63 adaptive hinges laid over the top adjusts dynamically as the user moves.
The second highlight is a magnetic memory foam headrest. Without straps, it offers a massive 11″ adjustment range. In tandem with the lumbar system, this ensures perfect support for your particular spinal curves.
Titan 2022 chairs come in a choice of small, medium, and XL sizes. There’s a fit here for all body types from ages 12 and up.
Summary of specs:
- Functionality: 4D magnetic arms; multifunction tilt-lock; recline from 85-165°.
- New 2022 Series Features: integrated 4-way lumbar support; magnetic headrest pillow; pebble seat base with waterfall edge; CloudSwap armrest caps.
- Upholstery: Neo Hybrid Leatherette (35 styles); Softweave Plus Fabric (8 styles).
- Warranty: five years.
Specification | Titan 2022 Small | Medium | XL |
Seat (total inner width) | 17.7″ (W) x 18.9″ (D) | 18.5″ (W) x 19.3″ (D) | 19.3″ (W) x 19.7″ (D) |
Backrest | 20″ (W) x 32.3″ (H) | 21″ (W) x 33.5″ (H) | 22″ (W) x 35″ (H) |
Seat height | 17.7″ to 20.5″ | 17.7″ to 20.5″ | 18.1″ to 21.9″ |
Size rating | 4’11” to 5’6″; 285 pounds | 5’7″ to 6’2″; 285 pounds | 5’11” to 6’9″; 395 pounds |
Likes and Dislikes
After two years of working full-time in a Cookies and Cream chair, I experienced two downsides. First, the body sheds skin dust and body oil while you sit. Over time, that will build up into ugly, smelly stains.
Fortunately, plastic-based fabrics are stain-resistant. The fabric cleaning section explains how to (easily) keep your chair hygienic and stain-free!
My only other issue was a torn armrest cap (after a year of use). According to Secretlab support, this is a known issue with first-generation Titan Evo armrests. If this happens to you, contact Secretlab support and they’ll send you a replacement.
- Three sizes to fit all body types
- Best-in-class integrated lumbar
- Spacious seat wide enough to sit cross-legged
- Strapless magnetic headrest pillow
- Intricate fabric designs with gradient fade effects
- You need discipline to maintain good posture habits
- Inevitable stains need (infrequent) deep cleanings
Aside from these quibbles, my two years working in a Cookies and Cream chair has been outstanding. What I like best of all is the comfortable posture support.
If you make the effort to maintain neutral sitting postures, this chair supports perfect back — and neck — posture with plush, luxurious comfort!
2022 Titan SoftWeave Plus (medium) $549-$644
Learn more: SoftWeave 2022 Series Review (15 styles up-close)
E-Win Champion Series CPG
$335.20 $419 from E-Win | Rated #2
The Revolution Upgraded Champion Series gaming chair is a new Titan Evo clone from E-Win. It replicates the Titan’s features, seat style, and 5-year warranty.
Revolution Upgraded chairs differ in a few ways. First, they come upholstered in a traditional, less spectacular basket weave fabric.
Other differences include a larger weight capacity, softer padding, and a smaller selection of styles:
Spec | Titan Evo | Champion Revolution Upgraded |
Armrests | 4D with swappable top caps | Same as the Titan |
Support | Height x depth-adjustable integrated lumbar; magnetic headrest | Same as the Titan |
Padding | 65 kg/m³ density (firm) | 55 kg/m³ (squishier) |
External lumbar pillow | Optional | Included |
Available styles | 60+ | 5 (3 faux leather, 2 fabric) |
Sizing | S, M, and XL sizes (4’11 to 6’9″) | 5’3″ to 6’5″; 400 lbs |
Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
Price | $519+ from Secretlab | $335.20 |
E-Win CPG Chair Specifications
CPG chairs pair a 400-pound weight capacity with a low seat height range of 16.1-19.9″ (around 2″ lower than other chairs). This makes them one of the few 400-pound supporting chairs suited to wide, short body types.
- Armrests: 4D with swappable top caps
- Back support: height x depth-adjustable integrated lumbar; magnetic headrest
- Seat padding: 55 kg/m³ (semi-squishy)
- External lumbar pillow: included
- Recline: 85-155°; multifunction tilt (tilt and lock the seat at angles)
- Available styles: 5 (3 faux leather, 2 fabric)
- Warranty: 2-year base warranty, extendable to 5 years (details)
- Seat: 21.3″ (W) x 19″ (usable depth)
- Backrest: 20.5″ (W) x 37.8″ (H)
- Seat height: 16.1-19.9″
- Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’3″; 400 lbs
Likes and Dislikes
Two common complaints about the Titan Evo are its price and its firm 65 kg/m³ padding. The E-Win Champion fabric chair addresses both. It’s over $200 cheaper than the Titan, yet also guaranteed for 5 years. Its 55 kg/m³ padding is also a bit softer.
Our tests with a 6’2″ model found that it performs as well as the Titan does. Through all ranges of motion, the headrest + integrated lumbar make it easy to maintain good posture.
So far, our Champion Series chair tester has found nothing to complain about. The only quibble I have with this chair is its unoriginality — it’s an almost exact Titan Evo replica.
- Versatile sizing for various body types
- The 4-way lumbar + magnetic headrest = ultra-precise back support
- The included lumbar pillow provides more support options
- Guaranteed for 2 years; extendable for 5 (details)
- Unoriginal design
But Secretlab didn’t invent the gaming chair — DXRacer did back in 2006. Secretlab copied that blueprint to develop the Titan chair. In a similar fashion, E-Win copied Secretlab’s version to make their own.
The Champion fabric edition has the same features and warranty as the Titan, but is $200 cheaper. Both provide similarly comfortable posture support over long periods.
Bottom line: if you want a Titan Evo but can’t afford one, E-Win’s Champion Revolution Upgraded edition is your best premium fabric chair option.
Learn more: E-Win CPG Fabric Chair Review.
Champion Series CPG from E-Win $335.20 $419
Use the coupon code ChairsFX to get 20% off.
Razer Iskur Grey Fabric Edition
$599 from Razer | Rated #3
The Iskur’s only fabric version is a plain-ish-looking grey style. Even so, it ranks #3 overall because of its popularity. That chair has a massive cult following with glowing praise from legions of happy users. Two things set it apart.
First, its 3-year warranty (many competitors only offer two years). Second, its unique flip-up lumbar support is very easy to use.
Razer Iskur Key Features
The Iskur’s highlight feature is its flip-up lumbar support. To sit straight, simply flip it up until it hits your lower back curve. That bracing will make it easy to sit up straight for a lengthy gaming session.
That unique feature makes it a versatile chair. Razer rates it for sizes 5’6″ to 6’2″. Even so, those on the shorter side should measure their legs against its 18.3″ seat depth.
One downside: the Iskur comes with a standard instead of a multifunction tilt lock. That means you can rock the chair, but not lock the seat at angles. Given the premium price tag, this downgrade is a bummer.
Iskur Chair Specifications
- Functionality: 4D arms; standard tilt-lock; recline from 90-139°, flip-up lumbar.
- Upholstery: ultra-soft, spill-resistant grey fabric.
- Warranty: three years.
- Seat usable W x D: 15.3″ (W) x 18.3″
- Backrest W x H: 16.5″ (lumbar width); 20″ (shoulder) x 32″ (H)
- Seat height range: 16.5-20.4″
- Armrest height range: 2.9″
- Size rating: 5’6″ to 6’2″ (170-190 cm); up to 299 pounds (136 kg).
There’s also an XL version of the Iskur, rated for sizes 6’0″ to 6’10” with a 399-pound weight capacity.
Pros and Cons
The Iskur is comfortable, super-easy to use, and popular in gaming communities. The standard edition is also versatile enough to fit most short to average sizes.
- Foolproof lumbar support
- Comfortable and easy to use
- Most Iskur users rave about their chairs
- Plain grey fabric styling
- No multifunction tilt lock
- The flip-up lumbar negates upper back support while sitting upright.
On the downside, it’s a pricey chair that only comes with a cheap standard tilt lock (usually found on sub $300 chairs).
Even so, its 3-year warranty and foolproof back support make the Iskur (in my opinion) the third-best fabric gaming chair of the year.
Learn more: Razer Iskur Technical Specs Review
Iskur Grey Fabric Chair $599.99 from Razer
The Iskur fabric edition is also available (sporadically) on Amazon for Price not available.
Anda Seat Kaiser 3 Series
$499 from Anda Seat | Rated #4
The Anda Seat Kaiser 3 Series was one of the first brands to replicate the Titan Evo chair’s features. It also comes with a 4-way integrated lumbar support and strapless magnetic headrest.
The Kaiser 3 differs with softer padding, two fabric styles, a slightly lower price, and a shorter warranty.
Kaiser 3 Specifications
The Kaiser 3 Series chairs have the same advanced features as the Titan chair. They differ on a few fronts. First, they come in medium and XL sizes only. Second, only two fabric styles are available.
Third, while Titan chairs come with 5-year warranty protection, the Kaiser 3 only offers 2 years. Finally, both come covered in firm 65 kg/m³ padding. However, the Kaiser 3 adds a thick layer of cotton over the foam. It feels a lot softer than the Titan Evo.
- Lumbar support: integrated, height and depth-adjustable
- Headrest: magnetic strapless memory foam pillow with cooling gel insert
- Adjustments: 90-165° recline; 4D armrests; multifunction tilt lock
- Padding: 65 kg/m³, with an extra layer of thick cotton
- Warranty: two years
Spec | Large | XL |
Seat | 20.2″ (W) x 20″ (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 | 5’9″ to 6’3″, 265 pounds | 6’0″ to 6’10”, 396 pounds |
Kaiser 3 Likes & Dislikes
I’ve tested a Kaiser 3 Creamy Pink edition. It has the same features as the Titan, but a squishier, more casual feel. When using casual, reclined postures (110° or more), it’s very comfortable.
Sitting in a Kaiser 3 feels like using an ergonomic sofa. It has a similarly fluffy feel, with full adjustability. Using the strapless headrest and 4-way lumbar, it’s easy to find your comfort zone.
- Has the same advanced features as the Titan 2022
- Has softer padding than stiff Secretlab seats
- Good-quality fabric upholsteries
- Attractive
- The deep 20″ seat won’t fit short people
- Short 2-year warranty (the Titan’s is 5 years)
There are a few downsides. First, compared to the Titan chair’s 5-year warranty, the Kaiser 3 is only guaranteed for two years. Second, the Titan Evo comes in a wider array of Softweave styles.
Third, I found the Kaiser 3 chair’s 20″ seat a touch deep. For my 5’9″ (177 cm) size, there’s only a tiny gap between the back of my knees and the seat lip. Shorter people will find the seat too deep.
Those able to accept these quibbles will enjoy the same high-end adjustability as the Titan Evo, with a more casual feel — and a lower price.
Learn more: Anda Kaiser 3 User Review.
Noblechairs Epic TX
Price not available on Amazon | Rated #5
German chair maker Noblechairs places the highest priority on making ultra-gorgeous gaming chairs. So it’s no surprise that the Epic is one of the most attractive fabric chairs in this review.
The downside: styling is the Epic’s biggest selling point. Under the hood, it serves up 4D arms, a multifunction tilt, an old-school lumbar pillow on straps, and a mere 2-year warranty.
Epic Specifications
The TX edition is one of the latest Epic designs. Besides its Anthracite Black fabric, it has the same merits — and flaws — as the entire Epic line:
- Functionality: 4D armrests; recline to 135°; 11° seat angle tilt-lock.
- Build: steel frame, 5-point aluminum base, 60mm smooth rolling casters.
- Comfort: cold foam padding; neck & lumbar support pillows.
- Warranty: 2 years
- Seat usable W x D: 13.75″ (inner W) x 19.5″
- Backrest W x H: 20.5″ (W) x 34.4″ (H)
- Seat height range: 19.5-23.4″
- Size rating: 5’5″ to 6’2″; 265-pound weight capacity
Pros and Cons
The Epic TX comes full-featured with a unique style that resembles a black jean jacket. It’s put together with the crisp, contemporary elegance that Noblechairs is famous for.
- Good ergonomic features
- Attractive Anthracite fabric
- Sharp modern styling
- Its legacy ergonomic features are outdated
- High price but only a 2-year warranty
But this elegance is pricey. The Epic TX has the same warranty and features as the E-Win CPG but costs over $100 more. It’s also pricier than the Core-EX, which comes with a 5-year warranty.
On top of that, its old-school pillows on straps seem archaic compared to the Titan’s integrated system. That leaves the Epic TX chair’s styling as its main selling point.
Epic TX Price not available on Amazon
Learn more in our Review of the Noblechairs Epic 2022 Collection.
AKRacing Core Series EX
Price not available on Amazon | Rated #6
The Core Series Ex is an old-school pillow-powered gaming chair with prosumer features. Instead of full-featured 4D arms, its arms are 3D. Instead of a multifunction tilt lock (lock the seat at angles), its standard tilt only lets you rock or lock.
Despite these quibbles, it’s a comfortable chair that provides good support. As a sweetener, it also stands out with a legit 5-year warranty (the same as what Secretlab offers).
Core Series EX Specifications
Core Series Ex chairs come upholstered in black, red, or blue fabric with color accent trim. The fabric is of a similar quality as the competition.
It’s soft, breathable, and tough. The seat padding’s 55 kg/m³ density is also significantly softer and squishier than Secretlab chairs.
- Functionality: 3D armrests; backrest tilt to 180 degrees; tilt tension & rocking.
- Comfort: cold cured padding; headrest and lumbar cushions.
- Upholstery: 2-tone fabric with color accent stitching.
- Support: steel frame; class 4 gas lift; 2.5″ casters.
- Warranty: 5 years on parts, 10-years on the frame.
- Seat: 20.9″ (W) x 19.7″ (D)
- Backrest: 32.6″ (H), 21.2″ (W)
- Seat height range: 13.75-17.25″
- Total height: 46″ to 49.3″
- Size rating: 5’3″ to 6’3″; weight capacity 330 lbs.
Pros and Cons
For feedback, I reached out to Youtuber Dave’s Techaway. He did a Core EX unboxing and review in January 2021. He chose the Core EX for two reasons. First, it’s a good fit for his 6’1″, 220-pound size. Second, it comes with a 5-year warranty.
These days, he uses it around 30 hours per week and raves. “The build quality is outstanding. After two years of use, it’s still like new. It’s very comfortable.”
- Cool, comfortable seating
- Eight 2-tone fabric styles
- Superb durability
- Thinner padding than luxury chairs
- The lumbar support pillow often moves around
- 3D armrests are a bit less versatile
- Old-school aesthetics
Dave’s one quibble is a common one with old-school lumbar pillows: “The lumbar pillow straps need improvement. You have to keep readjusting the cushion because it always moves.”
In my opinion, the biggest downside is the old-school design — it hasn’t evolved in years. Even so, that’s a good fit for people like Dave who prioritize good back support and value over flashy skins.
Core Ex on Amazon Price not available
Learn more: AKRacing Core Series EX Review.
Best Cheap Fabric Gaming Chairs
Amazon is the best place to find cheap fabric gaming chairs priced under $300. There are dozens of options — many from unknown providers. One of the most popular from an established brand is the GTRacing Pro Series fabric chair.
The specs are spotty. GTRacing doesn’t provide a minimum size rating. They also don’t reveal the depth of the seat. Such issues are typical in this price range.
- Functionality: 1D armrests; 170-degree recline; tilt tension and rocking.
- Comfort: resilient foam padding; lumbar support and headrest cushion.
- Upholstery: nylon fabric in three styles.
- Warranty: one year.
- Seat: 17.72″ (W) x n/a (D)
- Backrest: 21.2″ (W) x 32.6″ (H)
- Seat height: 17.7-22.05″
- Size rating: max 6’3″ ; weight capacity 330 pounds
Bottom line: if looking for precise posture support and a reliable fit, cheap fabric chairs are not for you. On the flip side, casuals wanting basically adjustable support can consider the GTRacing or similarly-priced Amazon alternatives.
Gaming Chair Upholstery Comparisons
Here’s how gaming chair fabrics compare to other types of chair upholsteries:
Fabric vs Full Mesh
Full mesh offers the best breathability. Fabric upholstery comes second in breathability, but first in soft, sensory appeal. Fabric is also a lot more durable than mesh over the long term.
Studies on car seat thermals (3) show that breathable covers only make a padded seat marginally cooler. Once air passes through the fabric, it comes to a near-stop against a thick slab of foam. That makes fabric gaming chairs less breathable — but more durable.
Unsupported mesh sags under body weight. Once it tears, the chair is ruined. In comparison, padded gaming chair fabrics won’t stretch or even wrinkle after years of use.
Fabric vs PU leather vs PVC
All gaming chair upholsteries are based on chemical plastic blends. PU leather chairs are the most common. Modern blends of PU leather are tough, decently breathable, and fairly durable.
PVC is a thicker, tougher version of PU leather. It’s a bit less breathable, but more durable. Gaming chair fabrics match the durability of PVC, with better breathability.
Type | Aesthetics and feel | Breathability | Durability |
Synthetic fabric | Most are plain designs with a soft feel. | Better than PU leather | Excellent |
PU leather | Attractive and easy to clean. Feels smooth and leather-like. | Good | Good |
PVC leather | Thicker than PU leather with a tough, rubber-like feel. | Average | Excellent |
These days, even cheap gaming chair upholsteries offer good breathability. Whichever type you choose, clamminess shouldn’t be an issue.
Keeping A Fabric Gaming Chair Clean
Fabrics absorb sweat and body oils. Over time, that will leave stinky, smelly stains. Luckily, it’s easy to deep-clean and deodorize a chair using common household ingredients.
There are a few easy cleaning methods to consider. For quick spot removal, laundry detergent scrubbed into the fabric with a pad works well.
Beyond stains, you can also deodorize your chair using baking soda and sunlight. Cleanings typically take around ten minutes of work and a few hours of drying time.
A final, ultra-powerful solution is to use a Bissell Little Green wet-vac. In less than 30 minutes, using one can deep-clean and deodorize your with jaw-dropping effectiveness.
Conclusion
This article reviews the best fabric gaming chairs of 2024. Most offer a similar quality of fabric upholstery. Models differ by price, warranty protection, and ergonomic features. The big incentive to buy any is the soft, breathable upholstery.
- Secretlab Titan EVO Softweave Gaming Chair: best upholstery and features ($549-$664).
- E-Win CPG: Titan Evo clones with 400-pound support and 5-year warranties. ($335.20).
- Razer Iskur: foolproof lumbar support drives its insane popularity ($499).
- Anda Seat Kaiser 3: A softer, squisher, more casual version of the Titan Evo ($449.99).
- Noblechairs Epic TX: sleek German design + premium features (Price not available).
- AKRacing Core Series EX: prosumer features, plain fabric styling, 5-year warranty (Price not available).
- Cheap Amazon chairs: Amazon offers many cheap fabric gaming chairs. (Under $200)
I find that sitting full-time in soft, plush upholstery makes a big difference! It adds a casual feel to the experience, like wearing sweats instead of a business suit.
Over a long day of high-tension computing, this sensory extra can help soothe your body and mind. Enjoy long periods of healthy sitting with soft, plush, soothing sensations!
Footnotes
- Singh, P. et al. ‘Effect of Fabric Type and Construction on Automotive Seating Comfort’. SAE Technical Paper 2013-01-0654, 2013, https://doi.org/10.4271/2013-01-0654, (accessed 18 March 2023).
- Antonín Havelka, et al. ‘Testing the effect of textile materials on car seat comfort in real traffic’. First published online December 1, 2019, https://doi.org/10.1177/15280837198896, (accessed 18 March 2023).
- Ing. Funda Büyük Mazari, ‘A Study On The Comfort and Thermo-Physiological Properties of Car Seats’, (Liberec: University of Liberec, 2017) http://www.ft.tul.cz/document/1753, (accessed 19 Dec. 2021).