Professional esports players spend full-time hours at a computer. They undergo intense training to compete for millions in prizes at top esports tournaments. Success requires long sitting sessions at peak performance. Under these conditions, the quality of chair is a crucial factor. In 2020, the best pro esports chairs are the ones the top pros rely on the most.
The history of esports began in 1998. During that early era, gaming ergonomics were horrible. As people gamed longer, many suffered back pain. Gaming chairs emerged to address that problem in 2006. In short order, gaming chairs became an essential part of the burgeoning esports industry.
There were two reasons gaming chairs succeeded. First, they are comfortable. Second, they help players sit for longer periods while gaming at peak performance.
Like $1000 ergonomic chairs, top gaming chairs provide superb comfort and posture support. But gaming chairs use common-sense features, instead of space-age futuristic ones. As a result, the best pro-quality gaming chairs cost a third of what the best ergonomic chairs cost.
Gaming chairs are also better tailored to real-world users. Esports players spend around 10-12 hours of training at their computers every day. That gives chair manufacturers lots of user data to work with. No other type of seating has undergone as much user testing over the past decade. The result has been rapid evolution — based on user feedback by pro esports players.
That explains why gaming chairs blew by office chairs to become a thriving global industry.
Pro esports chair overview
A pro esports chair supports full-time sitting at a computer workstation. Pro chairs hold up under full-time loads for three reasons.
First, the dense foam padding on pro chairs holds up well under heavy use. Second, pro-class cover fabrics provide optimal breathability without getting clammy. Finally, a range of adjustments let players change position on the fly. Changing positions is a dynamic sitting tactic. By moving the body while sitting, players stay fresh without stopping gameplay.
Pro training demands
Today, esports is a billion dollar industry. At top tournaments, millions of dollars are on the line. Pro players lead a grinding lifestyle of rigorous training and intense tournament schedules.
That’s why the most successful teams maintain holistic training programs. Players have physical training routines, strict diet guidelines and proper ergonomic workstations.
Esports chair appeal for non-gamers
Pro gamers know that a healthy, comfortable body ensures a sharp mind while at a computer. When away from the PC, all computer users need proper rest, nutrition and exercise. When sat down full-time for work, the quality of the chair has a huge impact on performance. Non-professionals can model this strategy to improve their own computing potency.
Students who do their schoolwork in a gaming chair will be able to focus for longer periods. Office workers can improve mood, vitality, and performance. In fact, everyone who sits at a computer for a living can benefit by using a gaming chair. That’s because a good gaming chair will let you sit longer, work harder and be more productive.
Important features in pro chairs
Before getting into reviews of the best chairs, here’s a quick look at the most important pro features.
Sturdy build
In the beginning, gaming chairs started with hand-welded steel frames. Over time, manufacturers refined methods. For example, many now use robot welding. That requires less manual operation and fewer operators. It also produces a more consistent result.
Another important pro feature is the use of high-density cold-cured foam padding. That is the premium padding choice in the furniture industry, used for the best luxury car seats. Cold-cured foam mixes plastic polymers with isocyanate, water, and additives. This pours into a mold where it rises and sets. The result is soft, firm and designed to provide comfort for long periods of sitting.
See the image above. It shows that over the life of a premium chair, high-density cold foam padding will hold its original shape. That means you get consistent support every time you sit.
Adjustable armrests
When sitting for many hours at a time, multi-directional armrests are invaluable. These have a range of settings that provide perfect support for your arms and wrists.
Pro-quality gaming chairs come with 3D or 4D armrests. Without this level of support, the back strains to hold up the arms. Over time, this can compress the median nerve in the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling or pain in the hand.
Numb, tingling pain in the wrists is a common condition called carpal tunnel syndrome. Toavoid degrading to that point, look out for a chair with at least 3-directional armrests.
Adjustable seat
All gaming chairs come with backrest recline. Many cheap chairs offer 180° recline.
But only pro-quality gaming chairs come with tilt lock. This feature lets you shift the seat to different angles. In some cases, the tilt lock is useful to sit at an optimal angle in relation to your desk. In other cases, you can adjust the tilt to turn your gaming chair into a rocker.
Summary of pro esports chair features
- Armrests:Â full 4-directional or 3-directional.
- Recline: between 90° up to 180° (110° is the optimal upright working angle)
- Tilt lock:Â most models have tilt lock, which lets you adjust the angle of the seat for enhanced spine support.
- Padding:Â high quality cold cure foam.
- Upholstery:Â most chairs use high quality faux leather. Some use nylon mesh fabric. Other models also offer a genuine leather option.
- Warranty:Â all models offer at least a 2-year warranty on parts. Some models guarantee parts for up to five years.
Feature analysis: expensive vs. cheap gaming chairs
Best large pro esports chairs
To get an idea which pro chairs are best, look at which models the pros use most often. Among the top teams and global tournaments, a few chairs stand out.
Traditional gaming chairs force the legs into a narrow position. This is helpful to maintain optimal posture, but some find it too restrictive. In contrast, these models all offer plenty of legroom as one of the many luxuries.
Below we summarize our top five recommended large-sized pro chairs.
Secretlab Titan
Rated #1
Direct buy price: $399 to $429
The Titan is Secretlab’s flagship. Over the past two years, it has rocketed to the top of the pro esports chair industry. First, it took over as sponsor of two of the world’s biggest esports tournaments. Then, Secretlab improved all models with an impressive 2020 Series refresh.
The result was massive exposure and chairs that stood up to the scrutiny. Secretlab now has six of the world’s top-50 teams on their roster, with more expected to sign.
Buy the Titan for $399 from Secretlab
Here’s what the pros have to say about the Titan:
- G2 Esports: “…unmatched quality and comfort…”
- Sk Telecom (T1): “the quality of their product is unparalleled…”
- Team Secret: “… they’re perfect for long hours of training…”
- Cloud9: “After trying their chairs out, we immediately understood what the fuss was about.”
REVIEW: all Secretlab Titan pro team chairs
Secretlab Titan features
The Titan stands out with an integrated lumbar support device. This provides a cleaner look and more precise support for your lower back.
It also has a flat, wide seat with enough room to cross your legs while sitting. Other key features:
- Functionality: padded 4D adjustable armrests; recline to 165°; tilt lock.
- Padding:Â blended cold cure foam.
- Upholstery:Â real leather, Softweave Fabric or Secretlab Prime 2.0 PU leather.
- Support:Â steel frame, Class 4 heavy duty lift; 5-star aluminium base; extra large PU casters.
- Extras:Â memory foam neck pillow with cooling gel insert.
- Warranty:Â 5-year warranty
Detailed Secretlab Titan Review
Our detailed Secretlab Titan review provides sizing info, design options and more. To compare the Titan with other Secretlab chairs, check our Secretlab Brand Review.
Titan sizing
- Seat width & depth: 20.5″ (W) x 19.7″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 33″ (H) x 21.7″ (W)
- Size rating: people 5’9″ to 6’7 tall; up to 290 pounds
Titan summary
The Titan’s internal lumbar provides the most precise back support in the industry. That plus the high quality and glowing industry feedback make it our top-rated chair.
Expect impeccable ergonomic support and ultimate luxury for as much as 10 hours per day. For your investment, the Secretlab Titan will last hard-core power users five years or longer.
Maxnomic Office Comfort
Rated #2
Direct buy price: $459 to $499
Maxnomic has a lot in common with Secretlab. They both launched in 2014. Both make large and compact pro chairs. Also, like Secretlab, Maxnomic is a huge name on the esports scene.
That’s partly because they partner with big names in the industry. It’s also because the Maxnomic OFC matches the quality and features of the Titan.
Detailed review of Maxnomic OFC gaming chairs
Maxnomic OFC features
The Maxnomic Office Comfort (OFC) has an internal lumbar instead of an external pillow. It also has a flat, wide seat with lots of legroom.
These models are popular with Twitch streamers. A big reason is that for an extra fee, you can custom embroidered logos to make it unique.
Besides the internal lumbar, the OFC Series also has recline from 83° (forward tilt) to 139°. A forward tilt to 83° lets you benefit from back support even when leaning forward. All models also come with a 5-click tilt of the seat, with a range of 11°.
On top of that, you also get luxurious 4D armrests and super thick cold foam padding over a steel frame.
Summary of features:
- Functionality: recline from 83° to 139°; 4D adjustable armrests
- Comfort: internal lumbar support; neck pillow; high density cold foam padding.
- Upholstery:Â high quality PU leather (stain-proof, easy to clean, durable).
- Support:Â aluminum base with scratch resistant matte gloss finish; gas lift; smooth rolling casters.
- Warranty:Â 2-year warranty on parts; 30 days return policy.
- Free shipping:Â included.
Maxnomic OFC chairs from NeedForSeat from $459
Maxnomic OFC sizing
- Seat width & depth: 20″ (W) x 23.6″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 33.5″ (H), 20″ (W)
- Size rating: people 6’2″ to 6’5 tall; up to 285 pounds
OFC summary
Maxnomic partners with Ninja, the world’s top streamer. They also partner with Team Liquid, the world’s top team.
They’ve been a mainstay on the esports scene for years. That’s because the OFC Series is an elite chair. It matches the Titan’s comfort, quality, and features.
But the Maxnomic brand has lost ground lately. Several tournaments and pro teams have switched to Secretlab chairs. The OFC chair itself falls behind the Secretlab Titan with a higher price and shorter warranty.
That said, no other model on this list comes close to matching the Titan’s quality. If you need an ultra-high-end alternative to the Titan, the Maxnomic OFC is worth a look.
Maxnomic OFC chairs from NeedForSeat from $459
Maxnomic Leader OFC chairs are also available on Amazon for Price not available. Check out Maxnomic’s Needforseat website for a broader range of models.
AKRacing Master Series Pro
Rated #3
Direct buy price: $579
The AKRacing Master Series Pro is more luxurious than both the Titan and Maxnomic OFC. It has similar features to both, plus a longer warranty and thicker padding.
The reason it ranks #3 is because none of the top-50 pro esports teams use this chair. The Master Series Pro is also the most expensive of the three.
Aside from cost, this is a superb, top of the line gaming chair. Among the highlights is seventy per cent more padding than their entry-level Core Series Ex.
Another key feature is the ultra-high-quality PU leather upholstery. What makes it stand out is the subtle perforations along the contact spots. This helps the chair keep cool in even the hottest weather.
A third standout is the warranty. Like the Titan, the Master Series Pro comes with 5-year coverage. This chair is built to last!
Buy the Master Series PRO from AKRacing for $579
Instead of buying direct from AKRacing.com, you can also buy the Master Series Pro on Amazon for Price not available.
Master Series Pro features
The Master Series justifies its high price by stacking in numerous luxury features.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; deep recline to 180°; 12° tilt-lock.
- Padding: cold cure foam padding guaranteed to maintain shape and density for five years. Density: 55 kg/m³ (seat) 50 kg/m³ (back)
- Upholstery:Â perforated PU leather in five color combinations.
- Support:Â single-piece steel frame; molded aluminum base (10x stronger than steel). It also has a class 4 gas lift and 2.5″ PU wheels.
- Extras:Â neck and lumbar support cushions.
- Warranty:Â 5-year warranty on parts, 10-year warranty on the steel frame.
- Free shipping:Â included.
Detailed Master Series Pro Review
Master Pro sizing
- Seat width & depth: 23.6″ (W) x 21.6″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 33.8″ (H), 23.6″ (W)
- Size rating: people 5’9″ to 6’2 tall; up to 330 pounds
Master Series Pro summary
The AKRacing Master Series Pro is one of the best – and most expensive – gaming chairs you can buy. To justify its price, it packs in 70% more padding than other chairs. It jams in one premium feature after another, topped with a 5-year warranty on parts.
The longer you sit, the worse wrist and back fatigue can throw you off your game. People who sit full-time for a living can give themselves a luxurious advantage with these chairs.
Buy the Master Series PRO from AKRacing for $579
Instead of buying direct from AKRacing.com, you can also buy the Master Series Pro on Amazon for Price not available.
Noblechairs HERO
Rated #4
Current Price: Price not available
Noblechairs is a German company founded in 2016. They focus all of their R&D on three high-end gaming chairs. The Noblechairs HERO is their flagship model.
Like the Secretlab Titan and Maxnomic OFC, the HERO has an internal lumbar device instead of a back pillow.
As an improvement over the other brands, the HERO includes both a neck and lumbar cushion. That means you’re not forced to use the internal lumbar and can use a pillow if you wish. It’s a nice little extra.
The HERO also stands out with perforations in the seat and backrest. Perforated PU leather ensures optimal breathability. That means the seat always stays cool, even in hot weather. It’s a clever mod that adds an extra bit of luxury.
Buy the HERO on Amazon Price not available
Noblechairs HERO features
- Unique feature:Â integrated lumbar support (no lumbar cushion needed, although one is provided).
- Functionality: extra large padded 4D adjustable armrests; recline to 125°; tilt lock.
- Comfort: cold cure foam padding; removable neck and lumbar pillows included.
- Upholstery:Â premium perforated PU leather. This material is durable, easy to clean and breathable.
- Support:Â steel frame; powder-coated, corrosion resistant aluminium base; extra large PU casters.
- Warranty:Â 2-year warranty.
Detailed Noblechairs HERO Review
HERO sizing
- Seat width & depth: 20.5″ (W) x 21.7″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 35″ (H), 22.5″ (W)
- Size rating: people 5’5″ to 6’2 tall; up to 330 pounds
Noblechairs HERO summary
Germany is strong in esports and Noblechairs is the preferred brand for two top-50 teams. Current partners are SK Gaming and mousesports, who both use custom HERO chairs.
The HERO’s padding and upholstery are among the best. Also, the internal lumbar gives it an edge over traditional chairs.
If you’re looking for a pro chair with style, the HERO supports Germany’s best esports players. It looks great in a boardroom and can transform any home office into an upscale studio.
Even better, it helps boost performance. If you spend full-time hours at a PC, buy a HERO to enjoy luxurious computing ergonomics.
Best compact pro chairs
These are the compact equivalents of the best large esports models. Compact pro chairs are slim-fit, with curved edges that keep the legs pressed in.
The purpose of a slim fit is to better balance body weight between your legs, the backrest and the base of the chair.
None of these models have internal lumbar support. All use traditional back pillows.
These are the only differences, compared to the large pro chairs. Otherwise, these compact picks boast the same quality and features, plus lower prices.
Secretlab Omega
RSP: $359 to $389
The Secretlab Omega is the compact version of the Titan. Larger users and those who prioritize comfort should choose a Titan. Short, slim users and those wanting the best posture support should choose an Omega.
Aside from smaller dimensions, there are only two differences between the Omega and the Titan.
First, instead of an internal lumbar, the Omega uses a traditional lumbar pillow. Second, the Omega’s seat edges restrict leg movement as a means of extra back support. Otherwise, the Omega boasts the same features, padding, and design options as the Titan.
Omega sizing
- Seat width & depth: 22″ (W) x 20″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 32″ (H) x 21″
- Size rating: people 5’3″ to 5’11” tall; up to 240 pounds
Omega buying advice
The Omega is a solid, compact chair with superb sitting support for full-time users.
The padding is very stiff. Many new users may feel panic after testing. It feels stiff like a rock. Don’t worry. Stiff padding is part of the plan.
After a few days of full-time use, the padding will adapt to the shape of your body. The stiffness will subside just enough to marshmallow your body with comfort.
After that, you’ll forget that your sitting while blasting our high-octane work.
Buy the Omega for $359 from Secretlab
To learn more about this chair, read our Detailed Secretlab Omega Review. To compare the Omega to the Titan, check out our Secretlab Brand Guide.
Maxnomic Pro Series
Direct buy price: $399 to $429
The Maxnomic Pro Series is the compact version of the OFC Series. Pro models are for small, slim users wanting a compact fit and the best posture support.
The relationship between Pro and OFC is the same as with Titan and Omega. The Pro has smaller dimensions, a narrow seat and a traditional lumbar pillow. Otherwise, Pro models have the same qualities as OFC ones.
Maxnomic Pro from NeedforSeat: $399 to $429
Maxnomic Pro sizing
- Seat width & depth: 21.6″ (W) x 22″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 32.3″ (H) x 21″
- Size rating: people 5’10” to 6’1″ tall; up to 220 pounds
Maxnomic Pro buying advice
If you’re looking for the best small-sized pro esports chair, the Maxnomic Pro is a top pick. So many streamers and top esports players use these chairs because they work very well.
Are you into esports? Do you want to game like the pros? Look deeper into the Maxnomic Pro. It supports long computing sessions with plush, comfortable ergonomic support.
Maxnomic Pro from NeedforSeat: $399 to $429
To learn more about Maxnomic Pro Series chairs, read our Maxnomic Esports Chair Review.
Noblechairs EPIC
Current Price: Price not available
The EPIC is Noblechair’s compact model, supporting people between 5’5″ and 6’2″ and up to 265 pounds.
It differs from the HERO with a smaller fit, a conventional lumbar pillow, and a unique design.
Otherwise, it has the same high-end features. These include thick cold foam padding, a range of color options, 4D armrests and more.
Noblechairs EPIC sizing
- Seat width & depth: 22″ (W) x 22.2″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 34.2″ (H), 21.4″ (W)
- Size rating: people up to 5’5″ to 6’2″ tall; up to 265 pounds
EPIC buying advice
At around $50 less than other top brands, the EPIC offers comparable quality with a snug fit.
The EPIC provides slick good looks and pro-class features. Are you looking for full-time sitting support and a durable, stylish build? The Noblechairs Epic is a solid choice at a great price.
Buy the EPIC on Amazon Price not available
To Learn more about this chair, read our Noblechairs EPIC review. To compare all Noblechairs models, read our Noblechairs Brand Guide.
Pro esports chair FAQ
This section answers common questions people face when thinking of buying an expensive gaming chair.
Why should I buy a pro gaming chair?
The purpose of a pro gaming chair is to support the back for long periods of sitting. Most people sat long hours in a cheap office chair will suffer back problems. In such cases, a gaming chair is better than an office chair. That’s because a pro chair will keep the spine in alignment while sitting. As health improves, more energy becomes available to focus on productivity. In this sense, the main reason to buy a pro-quality gaming chair is as a performance hack. In summary:
- Modern work demands require long hours of screen-based sedentary time.
- Sitting with poor posture harms your back and leads to health issues.
- Gaming chairs support good posture.
- Good posture leads to increased energy, better concentration and many other wellness benefits.
Why do pro chairs cost more?
The main difference between expensive gaming chairs and cheap ones is the quality of build. Compared to cheap chairs, expensive ones have sturdier bases, higher quality upholstery, and advanced armrests. They also use high-density cold-foam padding that holds up to years of heavy use.
Look at the two chairs in the picture. The difference that quality padding is clear to see.
CONCLUSION
The average office worker spends around eleven hours sitting every day. If you sit full-time and suffer from chronic back problems, pro esports chair can help. Both pro and cheap gaming chairs will support the back for long hours of sitting. But pro gaming chairs to do with plenty of extras.
These chairs use better materials, have more customization options and provide longer warranties. All gaming chairs in this guide come with at least a 2-year warranty. That assures they can hold up under full-time loads for at least that long.
Pro gamers, students and office workers can gain a performance edge with these chairs.
These models will fix your posture, support your back and improve your vitality. This means more energy to focus on productivity and winning. In that sense, pro esports chairs are an excellent investment for high achievers.
