Pro esports players sit for hours on end — under intense pressure to perform at high levels. That’s why a premium gaming chair is one of the most important pieces in a pro gaming setup. The best models provide consistent comfort while preventing soreness after long sessions. That keeps players fresh, motivated, and performing at peak levels. Want to perform like a pro? Here we review the best pro esports gaming chairs on the market in 2022.
The best way to know the qualities of a good computing chair is to test one out. That requires using it full-time for at least a few months. Luckily, the world’s best esports players have done that work for us.
Best Pro Esports Gaming Chairs: Tier 1
ChairsFX recently assessed the gaming chairs used by the top esports pros of 2022. Among the top-15 esports teams, eight use Secretlab Titan chairs. Other notable brands partnered with top-30 teams include Herman Miller, Razer, and DXRacer.
Among top streamers, Herman Miller’s famous Embody and Aeron chairs are also popular. So what are the best pro esports gaming chairs in 2022? Based on streamer and esports team usage, we’ve picked out nine models.
Then, we ranked them based on four factors. These are the quality of ergonomic features, aesthetics, length of warranty, value for money. Here are the results:
- Secretlab Titan EVO 2022 Series: best overall
- Herman Miller Aeron: best office-style
- Herman Miller Embody: most adaptive backrest
- Razer Iskur: sleek esports clout chair
- AKRacing Master Pro: ultra-durable classic
- Anda Seat NaVi Edition: pro chair with 6-year warranty
- Sidiz T80: cheaper Aeron alternative
- Noblechairs Epic: stylish German racer
- DXRacer G-Series Series: classic racer with modular extras
Among these chairs, there’s a big gap in quality between some versus others. As a result, we’ve broken our ‘best premium esports chair’ rankings into two tiers. The first tier represents the very best gaming chairs on the planet.
Secretlab Titan EVO 2022 Series
$549 from Secretlab
Rated #1
More pro streamers and elite esports teams use the Secretlab Titan than any other chair. That’s because the Titan Evo 2022 is the best premium gaming chair on the market. Several factors justify its #1 ranking.
First, Titan chairs have better back support features than typical racing-style chairs. Second, Titan 2022 Series chairs come in small, medium, and XL sizes. But that’s not all!
Titan EVO 2022 Functionality
Functionally, Titan Evo chairs differ from other gaming chairs in three key ways:
Turn the knob on the right to adjust the depth. If it’s not a perfect fit, toggle the dial on the left to adjust the height. For help with your lumbar configuration, see this Lumbar Support Biomechanics Tutorial.
Other racing-style gaming chairs have headrest pillows with straps. These attach the pillow to the headrest. The problem is that tight straps offer a limited range of adjustment. Secretlab solves this with a strapless magnetic pillow system.
Without straps, users enjoy a larger adjustment range. On a medium-sized Titan chair, the pillow has a whopping 11″ adjustment range. That makes it easy to find the sweet spot that best supports your neck while sitting.
As well, 2022 Series Titan seats also have very mild edges. Ridged seat edges help to enforce good sitting habits by keeping your legs close together. This works but can feel restrictive.
The Titan’s mild seat edges give gentle guidance that encourages users to sit straight. At the same time, leave enough room to sit cross-legged.
Summary of Ergonomic Features
The Titan EVO comes packed with too many impressive features to list here. For a detailed look, see Titan Evo 2022 Series gaming chair review.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; multifunction tilt-lock; recline from 85-165°.
- New 2022 Series Features: integrated 4-way adjustable 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.
Titan EVO 2022 Sizing
The point of a gaming chair is to support your spinal curves while you sit. To achieve that, the Titan 2022 Series makes it easy to customize your fit.
Chairs come in small, medium, and XL sizes. Choose the size rating that matches your height for the best results:
| Specification | Titan 2022 Small | Medium | XL |
| Seat | 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 |
Extra-wide users may feel tempted to upsize to a larger chair. Based on my tests (I stand 5’9″), that is possible. Because of the Titan’s superior adjustability, I can find a great fit in both medium and XL models.
Shorter users in a small-sized Titan should also take note. Most adult-sized desks are 28″ or higher. To keep feet planted at a desk that high, short users in a small-sized Titan should add an ergonomic a footrest. Learn more:
Titan 2022 Series Sizing Guide
Secretlab Titan Summary
Beyond superior features and sizing options are even more buying incentives. For one thing, Titan Evo 2022 chairs come in a whopping 43 styles. Choose from eight SoftWeave fabric styles or 35 stunning leatherette ones.
On top of that, Titan chairs come with a rock-solid 5-year warranty. Bottom line: no other gaming chair beats Titan features, aesthetics, or long-term value.
- Three sizes to fit all body types
- Best-in-class integrated lumbar
- Comfortable waterfall pebble seat
- 43 leatherette and fabric designs
- Magnetic headrest pillow with large adjustment range
- 5-year warranty
- Very expensive!
The biggest downside is the price. Six months ago, small and medium Titan 2022 chairs cost $449. Because of rising materials and shipping costs, the same chairs now cost $549.
Even so, the Titan remains a worthwhile investment for pros and power users. Boost comfort, aesthetics, and happiness while sitting at a desk. If you’re set on a racing-style gaming chair, there’s nothing better than a Secretlab Titan 2022 Series.
Available from Secretlab in America, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Malaysia. Learn more in this Titan EVO 2022 Series review.
Herman Miller Aeron
The Logitech G x Embody gets more hype than the Aeron. Among the top-15 streamers of 2022, three use Embody chairs. Only two use the Aeron. Even so, I rank it as the better option for esports players and other power users.
On paper, the Aeron is a bit cheaper than the Embody yet comes with better ergonomic features. Its controls are also more intuitive and easier to use.
What’s more, unlike the one-size-fits-all Embody, it comes in three sizes. That makes it possible to achieve a near-perfect fit.
Aeron Chair Functionality
The Aeron is a full-mesh mid-back ergonomic task chair. Its next-level adaptability keeps you sitting with perfect posture at all times. There are three standout features.
The mesh has different tension zones. On the backrest, it’s tighter along the edges and looser in the middle. On the seat, there are four different zones. These adapt to micromovements. That helps to keep the body in perfect balance at all times.
The top one supports the lumbar area. The bottom one supports the sacral spine (closer to the tailbone). You can adjust the depth of support, but not the height.
For best results, make sure to choose the right Aeron chair for your size. Otherwise, the lumbar support may not fit your body type. Assuming a good fit, enjoy sublime back support that’s very easy to use. Simply toggle the depth until it feels perfect.
During a backward recline, the seat tilts up to 16 degrees. When leaning forward, it tilts down to -1 degrees. It’s a complex feature that helps to justify the high price. Even so, it’s a luxury, not an essential.
While gaming or typing, it’s better to sit in fixed positions. As a result, sync-tilt works best between gaming sessions. Then, you can rock back and forth to get your hips moving.
Summary of Ergonomic Features
- Synchro-tilt: seat pan angle from -1° to 16°; backrest 93° to 104°
- Upholstery: Pellicle 8Z mesh provides eight zones of varying tension for ultra-responsive support.
- PostureFit Lumbar: depth–adjustable support for the lumbar and sacral spine.
- Seat: adjust the height; limit the tilt range; adjust the tilt tension; sync-tilt with the backrest.
- Backrest: forward tilt option; height and depth adjustable PostureFit lumbar support.
- Armrests: 3D adjustable.
- Warranty: 12 years.
Aeron Chair Sizing
The Aeron comes in two flavors. Aeron Remastered is the classic, office-style edition. The Aeron gaming chair arrived in 2020 as a gamer-oriented version.
Because the Posturefit isn’t height-adjustable, it’s important to choose the right size.
| Specification | Size A (Remastered only) | B (all versions) | Size C (all versions) |
| Seat | 25.75″ (W) x 16″ (D) | 27″ (W) x 16.75″ (D) | 28.25″ (W) x 18.5″ (D) |
| Backrest | 20.25″(W) x 21″ (H) | 21.5″ (W) x 22″ (H) | 22.75″(W) x 23″ (H) |
| Seat height | 14.75″ to 19″ | 16″ to 20.4″ | 16″ to 20.5″ |
| Size rating | 4’10” to 5’9″; 300 pounds | 5’2″ to 6’6″; 350 pounds | 5’2″ to 6’6″; 350 pounds |
Quick tips: if you’re shorter than 5’6″, choose Size A. Everyone else should choose Size B. If you want a slightly wider seat, choose Size C.
Herman Miller Aeron Summary
The Aeron comes in five styles. Graphite models are the cheapest; mineral styles are the most expensive.
The most obvious downside of buying an Aeron is the insane price. It does a similar job as other ergonomic chairs, with a bit more luxury. It’s the all-inclusive 12-year warranty that justifies the high price.
Buying an Aeron is a 1-time, long-term purchase. Spread over 12 years, a $1695 Aeron chair costs $141 per year. Thus, if committed for the long term, an Aeron chair delivers world-class ergonomics plus excellent value.
- Three sizes to fit all body types
- Ultra-adaptive Pellicle mesh upholstery
- Industry-leading synchro-tilt functionality
- Easy to use
- Good value over the long term
- High up-front cost
- The lumbar support isn’t height-adjustable
There are plenty of upsides. First, even if you’ve never used an ergonomic chair before, the Aeron will keep your sitting posture almost perfect. In fact, once you’ve set your seat height and recline, it’s harder to sit with poor posture than to sit properly!
Imagine a seat that you can set, forget, and never think about for the next 12 years. Beyond its museum-quality good looks, it keeps you comfortable and aligned, with next-level durability.
Learn more: Aeron Gaming Chair Review.
Aeron Gaming Chair from Herman Miller $1695
The Aeron Remastered is also available from Herman Miller for $1695.
Herman Miller Embody x Logitech G
The Logitech G x Embody is Herman Miller’s most beautiful (and hyped) gaming chair. This is the official chair of elite esports teams like Complexity Gaming and Team Solo Mid.
Big-time streamers like TimtheTatman, Tfue, and Shroud also use this chair. It has similar ergonomic features as the Aeron, with a few significant differences. The most significant is the upholstery.
Instead of adaptive mesh, it has a fabric-padded seat and ultra-adaptive Pixelated backrest.
Embody Features
The Embody’s star feature is its Pixelated backrest. A central spine flexes while holding the unit in place. Each pixelated ‘rib’ flexes or contracts as the user moves. That keeps posture consistently balanced no matter how the user tries to sit.
Armrest adjustability is also next-level. You can adjust the height from 4″ higher than the seat to 8.75″. The width range is a massive 11.5″ to 21″. That lets you pull the armrests in close for mobile computing, or out of the way altogether.
Other features resemble the Aeron’s.
- Synchro-tilt: seat pan angle 3° to 15°; backrest 94° to 120°
- Pixelated back support: the backrest has a central spine with flexible ribs. Each rib adjusts when you lean back to support the natural curve of your spine.
- BackFit angle adjustment: this lets you position the back of the chair to fit the curvature of your back.
- Seat adjustments: adjust the seat’s height and depth.
- Backrest: adjust recline tension; 3-position tilt-lock; synchro-tilt
Herman Miller touts the Embody as one-size-fits-all, with a size rating of 5’4″ to 6’2″. However, because the back support isn’t height-adjustable, users shorter than 5’10” may find an awkward fit.
- Seat: 21.25″ (W) x 15″-18″ (D)
- Backrest: 14″ (W) x 23.5″ (H)
- Armrests: 11.5-21″ width range; 4-8.75″ height range.
- Seat height: 16-20.5″
- Seat depth: 15-18″
- Size Rating: 5’4″ to 6’2″; 300-pound weight capacity
Embody Summary
Besides the insane price, the Backfit Angle system is my biggest gripe. You can’t adjust it up or down, only at angles. However, the Embody’s backrest has fixed curves. If you’re shorter than 5’10”, this will encourage you to slouch!
However, because this chair is so comfortable, many newbies might not even notice the ill fit — until pain strikes!
- Museum-quality good looks
- Ultra-adaptive Pixelated backrest
- Wide, spacious, comfortable seat
- Excellent armrest adjustability
- Good value over the long term
- High up-front cost
- The back support is tricky to get right
On the upside, for users taller than 5’10”, the back support should fit well. Then, the Embody delivers everything you could want in a gaming chair.
Embody chairs are also available in a wide range of styles. The Gaming Edition blends dark fabric and parts with blue or black accents. Classic editions let you customize the color of your frame and fabric colors.
Assuming a good fit, the Pixelated backrest will stick to your spine like a second mecha skin. Then, expect ultra-adaptive comfort with lots of space and a premium feel.
Learn more: Logitech G x Embody Review
Embody x Logitech G from Herman Miller $1795
The fully-loaded Embody classic is also available from Herman Miller for $1895 .
Razer Iskur
$499.99 on Amazon
Rated #5
Razer makes our Tier1 list with a good but not great gaming chair. That’s because Razer has massive clout in the esports world. Founded in 2005, Razer makes high-performance gaming peripherals and Blade gaming laptops. In 2020, the company released the Razer Iskur gaming chair.
The Iskur has a unique look, innovative lumbar support, and world-class branding. Razer also operates a partnership program called Team Razer. Its partners include Mad Lions, Team Alliance, and gaming legend Faker (T1 team captain)(2).
Moving into 2022, look for other high-profile gamers and streamers to use Iskur chairs.
Razer Iskur Features
The highlight feature of this chair is its built-in adjustable lumbar curve. A lever on the side of the chair lets you lift the curve or reduce it.
Other features are decent. Instead of a multifunction tilt, the Iskur chair comes with a cheaper standard one. That lets you rock the seat but not lock it at angles.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; depth-adjustable lumbar; seat height adjustment; 139-degree recline.
- Upholstery: black faux leather with carbon trim and green stitching.
- Warranty: 3-year warranty from Razer.
The Iskur chair is designed for average sizes of moderate width. Extra-short or extra-wide users may find a less than ideal fit.
- Seat width x depth: 21″ (W) x 21.4″ (D)
- Backrest height x width: 18″ (W) x 32.8″ (H)
- Floor to seat range: 17.9″ to 21.8″
- Size rating: 5’6″ to 6’2″ (170-190 cm); up to 299 pounds (136 kg).
Iskur Chair Summary
Unlike other premium racing-style chairs, the Razer Iskur lacks a multifunction tilt lock. Another quibble is its unique lumbar support system. It works, but its flip-up style offers less precision than a traditional lumbar pillow.
- Strong brand association
- Attractive design
- 3-year warranty
- Affordable
- Unusual lumbar support
- No multifunction tilt
On the positive side, it’s a good-looking chair with a strong brand pedigree. As well, its 3-year warranty beats those offered by Noblechairs and DXRacer.
If looking for a trendy but affordable chair, the Iskur is a solid pick.
Buy the Throttle Series on Amazon $499.99
Learn more: Razer Iskur Gaming Chair Review.
Best Pro Esports Gaming Chairs: Tier 2
These premium gaming chairs aren’t as ergonomically spectacular as Tier 1 picks. They also have shorter warranties, fewer aesthetic variations, and less big-name brand appeal.
Nonetheless, each has well-earned endorsements from leading esports pros.
AKRacing Master Series Pro
$579.00 on Amazon
Rated #3
AKRacing is one of the world’s oldest and most well-established gaming chair brands. Soon after its founding in 2008, AKRacing chairs became a staple on the pro esports scene. These days, AKRacing doesn’t partner with any top-30 teams. Even so, its flagship Master Series Pro makes the list.
Like other premium chairs, the Master Series Pro comes with fully-adjustable ergonomic features. What sets it apart is its durability. AKRacing was the first gaming chair brand to offer a 5-year parts warranty. The company runs its own factories with a tight grip on QC. Out of the box, these premium gaming chairs are built to last!
Master Pro Features
The Master Series Pro is a 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. Look closely and you’ll notice subtle perforations around the contact spots. These help the chair keep cool in even the hottest weather.
The warranty also deserves mention. Like the Titan, the Master Series Pro comes with 5-year coverage.
- 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: perforated PU leather in five color combinations.
- Support: 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: neck and lumbar support cushions.
- Warranty: 5-year warranty on parts, 10-year warranty on the steel frame.
- Seat width & depth: 23.6″ (W) x 21.6″ (D)
- Backrest height & width: 33.8″ (H), 23.6″ (W)
- Floor to seat range: 13.6″ to 16.1″
- Chair height: 48.25″ to 51.75″
- 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 most reliable premium gaming chairs you can buy. To justify its high price, it packs in 70% more padding than other chairs. It then jams in one premium feature after another, topped with a 5-year warranty on parts.
The biggest downside is the styling. This chair’s design hasn’t changed since 2016. As a result, it retains an old-school, classic racing-style look. Compared to the latest Secretlab designs, Master Series Pro styling is archaic.
- Classic racing design
- Comfortable
- 5-year warranty
- Expensive
- Outdated style
Those who prioritize performance over fancy looks should consider this chair. Although not as flashy, it’s one of the most durable high-end models that money can buy.
Learn more: AKRacing Master Series Pro Review
Master Series PRO from AKRacing $579
The Master Series Pro available on Amazon for $579.00.
Anda Seat NaVi Edition Esports Chair
$449 from Anda Seat
Rated #2
Since 2020, Anda Seat has partnered with Fnatic, the 7th most successful esports team of all time. Last year, the company also signed a deal with Natus Vincere (ranked #6). Anda Seat also made waves last year by offering an industry-leading six-year warranty.
NaVi chairs come in dark and brilliant yellow variations. Both come stacked with fully-adjustable features, high-quality upholsteries, and superb durability. Priced at $449, this is an excellent alternative to the Secretlab Titan — with an even longer warranty!
Navi Chair Features
Anda Seat’s Navi editions lack fancy extras like an integrated lumbar and magnetic headrest. Instead, you get classic racing-style features with some luxury touches.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; recline to 160°; multifunction tilt.
- Comfort: regular-sized neck and lumbar pillows.
- Cover options: black or yellow PVC faux leather.
- Warranty: 2 years, extendable to six year.
- Seat width x depth: 21.26″ (W) x 22.32″ (D) | 54 cm (W) x 56 cm (D)
- Seat height: 16.9-21.2″ | 43-54 cm
- Backrest width x height: 20.47″ (W) x 34.17″ (H) | 52 cm (W) x 87 cm (H)
- Size rating: fits people 5’6″ to 6’8″ tall; up to 350 pounds | 167-203 cm; 158 kg weight capacity
All Anda Seat chairs come with a standard 2-year warranty. However, Anda offers a free upgrade to 6-year warranty protection. See our Anda Seat Gaming Chair Review for details.
Anda NaVi Chair Summary
My biggest gripe about Anda’s NaVi edition chairs is the poor strategy surrounding them. Both are luxury versions of the Anda Seat Dark Demon. The Dark Demon made its debut in 2020 as an affordable prosumer chair with a flat, wide seat.
With the release of the two NaVi editions, I was expecting a bunch of new designs. Instead, Anda Seat has discontinued the Dark Demon. Only the NaVi editions remain available for sale.
- Brilliant designs
- 6-year warranty
- Flat, wide seat
- The product line has been discontinued
In short, Navi editions are part of a discontinued/ outdated collection. If you can live with that, the yellow edition is a stunner. beyond its good looks, it’s well-built and spacious. As well, Anda Seat’s padding is softer than Secretlab’s. That delivers a more plush, comfortable experience than a Titan chair.
Official NaVi chair from Anda Seat $449
To learn more, read this Anda Seat NaVi Gaming Chair Review.
Sidiz T80
Made in South Korea, the Sidiz T80 rose to pro esports fame in 2019. First, Gen G (one of South Korea’s top esports teams) adopted the T80 as its official team chair.
Soon after, popular streamer DrDisrespect started using one. As a result, the T80 has become a popular office-style alternative to pricey Herman Miller chairs.
The T80 chair ticks almost all the boxes. It upgrades the best gaming chair features into an ergonomic office chair package. The result is attractive and comfortable, with complex functionality. One issue keeps it from perfection.
Sidiz T80 Chair Features
T80 chairs come in standard black, and also a pair of Marvel superhero designs. The Captain America version comes with blue styling. The Iron Man version comes in a striking mix of red and gold.
All versions do everything the Aeron chair does, and more! Highlights include an adaptive mesh backrest, synchro-tilt functionality, and adjustable lumbar support. Beyond the Aeron, the T80 also has seat-slider functionality.
In fact, this is one of the most technologically complex chairs I’ve ever seen. The biggest issue has to do with the short warranty, given the high price of the chair.
- Synchro-tilt: seat pan angle 1°; backrest 90° to 114°.
- Spinal curve support: depth-adjustable lumbar; height and depth-adjustable padded headrest.
- 3D armrests: adjust the arms in three directions. The range provides robust support for the shoulders and wrists.
- Seat slide plus slope: slide the seat forward or back; manually slope down by -1°.
- Premium Padding: resilient memory foam with a layer of antibacterial elastic sponge. This provides firm, dense, very comfortable support.
- Warranty: three years, plus 30-day money-back-guarantee (details)
The T80 has a compact seat with flat edges. Average sizes will enjoy a spacious fit with plenty of legroom.
- Seat width x depth: 19.8″ (W) x 19.6″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 19.8″ (W) x 29.7″ (H)
- Floor to seat range: 15.5-19.5″
- Size rating: people 5’5″ to 6’6″ tall; up to 250 pounds
Sidiz T80 Summary
Two things prevent the T80 from being the perfect gaming chair. First, the headrest doesn’t work as well as gaming chair pillows. The height adjustment works well, but the angular depth adjustment won’t fit everyone well.
The other issue is the warranty. Most gaming chairs over $700 offset high prices with longer warranty periods. In contrast, despite its high price, the T80 only comes guaranteed for 3 years.
On a price-per-year basis, it’s the most expensive chair on this list at $249 per year. In comparison, the Secretlab Titan costs $109 per year (5-year warranty). Meanwhile, the Herman Miller Aeron (12-year warranty) works out to $141 per year.
- Excellent functionality
- Gorgeous gaming-office hybrid design
- Comes with seat-sliding and tilting features.
- The headrest is awkward
- Tiny 3-year warranty
Compared to the Herman Miller Aeron, the T80 offers similar ergonomics. Up-front, the Aeron is $900+ more expensive. But spread over the length of its warranty, the T80 is $108 more expensive per year!
With a better warranty, the T80 (and its superhero substyles) would rank #1. The T80 is a perfect merger of gaming and office chair technologies. For hard-core pros and power users, it’s a smart and sophisticated choice.
Learn more: Sidiz T80 Gaming Task Chair Review.
Captain America edition Price not available | Iron Man edition Price not available
Noblechairs Epic
$539.00 on Amazon
Rated #4
Noblechairs is a German maker of luxury gaming chairs. Its Epic chair is most famously used by Pokimane, one of the world’s top streamers.
German esports team SK Gaming has been an official Noblechairs partner since 2018. Other teams using Epic chairs include Mousesports and Sprout eSports.
Noblechairs Epic Features
The Epic is a luxurious racing-style gaming chair. All models come with fully-loaded ergonomic features. Most designs have elaborate diamond-pattern embroidery that adds a classy touch.
This chair’s aesthetics and functionality are high-end. In contrast, the 2-year warranty is typical of a cheap gaming chair. However, given its sub-$400 price, the Epic still delivers decent value for money.
- 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.
- 2 year manufacturer warranty.
- Seat width x depth: 22″ (W) x 22.2″ (D)”
- Backrest width x height: 21.4″ (W) x 34.2″ (H)
- Floor to seat range: 19.5-23.4″
- Size rating: people 5’5″ to 6’2″ tall; up to 265 pounds
Noblechairs Epic summary
German engineering is famous worldwide for its quality and attention to detail. The Noblechairs Epic reflects these qualities with stylish executive flair.
On paper, the biggest issue with the Epic is its mediocre 2-year warranty. In 2022, several cheap gaming chairs come with 3-year warranties or better!
- Attractive
- Excellent build quality
- Very comfortable
- Good price
- Cheap 2-year warranty
- Limited recline to 135°
On the upside, these chairs are comfortable, luxurious, and stylish. As well, the sub-$400 price is a bargain. As well, an Epic will look just as good in a boardroom as it will in a gaming room.
Buy the Epic on Amazon $539.00
Learn more:Noblechairs Epic Gaming Chair Review.
DXRacer Gladiator Series
$399 from DXRacer
Rated #3
No premium gaming chair review is complete without a shoutout to DXRacer. This company released the world’s first gaming chair in 2022. It also spearheaded the merger between gaming chairs and professional esports.
In the early days, the DXRacer Racing Series was the gaming chair for pro players and tournaments. Recent years saw its presence on the scene has faded. In 2021, the Racing Series gave way to the Gladiator Series.
These days, two top-30 teams use custom DXRacer chairs. #7-ranked Vici gaming has been a DXRacer partner for several years. #25 Ninjas in Pyjamas partnered with DXRacer in 2018. These days, they partner with Razer. But instead of switching to Razer Iskur chairs, their old DXRacers are still in action!
Gladiator Series Features
The DXRacer Gladiator (aka ‘G-Series’) is the modern version of the original pro esports gaming chair. To make it more relevant for modern gamers, it’s also modular.
That means you can extend the functionality of the chair with add-on parts. At present, modular extras include a retractable footrest, cup holder, or laptop/ tablet stand. There’s also an option to swap out the padded leather seat for a mesh fabric version.
- Functionality: 4D armrests; recline from 90-135°; multifunction tilt lock (with 15-degree seat tilt).
- Support: cold-cured foam padding; height-adjustable neck and lumbar support pillows.
- Comfort: high-density foam padding; neck and lumbar support cushions.
- Upholstery: PU leather in all-black; black and white; black and red.
- Foundation: steel frame; Class 4 gas lift; XL PU-coated casters.
DXRacer hasn’t released the exact dimensions of this chair (we’ve reached out for specs). Given the fixed-height lumbar support, there’s likely a minimum size requirement to make use of it. Based on available specs, this is a slim-fitting chair best-suited to average sizes.
- Seat width x depth: 15.7″ (W, excluding seat edges) x 19″ (D)
- Backrest width x height: 23″(W) x 34.5 (H)
- Floor to seat range: 17-19.5″
- Size rating: 5’5″ to 6’2″; 200-pound weight capacity
Gladiator Series Summary
G-Series chairs boast classic racing-styling designs, modular functionality, and robust ergonomics. In the modern premium gaming chair market, the $399 price is also appealing. Thus, even though the G-Series only has a 2-year warranty, it offers excellent value for money.
- Classic racing-style design
- Good ergonomic features
- Modular extendability
- Affordable
- Meager 2-year warranty
- Only suitable for slim, average sizes
There’s only one downside: G-Series chairs are sizing-specific. Chair dimensions suit slim sizes of average height. Overly thick users will suffer a tight fit. Those shorter than 5’5″ might find the neck pillow too high.
Other than that, it’s a classic esports chair with a modern look and a great price to boot. If you’re looking for the best performance for the lowest price, consider buying a G-Series.
Learn more: DXRacer GLadiator Series Review
The DXRacer G-Series is also available on Amazon for Price not available.
eSports Performance Realities
A good gaming chair won’t directly improve your gaming skills. Rather, it serves as a useful tool to help improve your seated computing performance.
Do I need a gaming chair to play esports?
Many experts agree that good lifestyle habits are more important than the quality of a chair. For instance, Dr. Jordan Tsai runs Respawn Gaming as a Doctor of Physical Therapy. His clinic services several top teams like Cloud9, TSM, Evil Geniuses, 100 Thieves.
Dr. Tsai is also a member of Secretlab’s Ergonomics Advisory Board. He uses a Titan Evo 2022 Series while working and gaming from home. However, his gaming chair ranks last on his list of healthy computing priorities:
Rest/nutrition/exercises > breaks > good posture > good chair
Dr. Elliot Smithson works with 1-HP.org. 1HP therapists work with elite teams like G2, Team Liquid, and 100 Thieves. They also provide telehealth consulting for individuals and institutions.
His advice is that “having a solid ergonomic base is incredibly important to make sure you are decreasing the stress on your tissues as much as possible. This includes a well-fitting chair, desk, properly adjusted armrests, etc.
But no matter how good your ergonomic setup is, when it comes to injuries, there’s no substitute for taking breaks, strength training, cardiovascular exercise, quality sleep, and solid nutrition.”
For an esports therapy view of healthy computing, see this feature:
How Does A Good Chair Help While Gaming?
A good gaming chair used correctly will mitigate the damage caused by unhealthy sitting habits. If you don’t suffer from discomfort or back pain while you sit, a gaming chair won’t change anything.
How Do Office Chairs Cause Harm?
It is estimated that 85% of American men and 75% of women suffer from anterior pelvic tilt. Chronic slouching flattens the lumbar curve and shortens the hip flexors. That misaligns the pelvis and tilts it forward.
Sitting this way degrades health, drains energy levels, and destroys motivation. For example, slouched sitting sends a subconscious signal for your abdominal muscles to relax. Over time, slouching weakens your core, further hindering your ability to sit up straight.
To compensate, other muscles must work harder. That causes further distortions including a higher lower back, slumped shoulders, and imbalanced hips. A pro esports gaming chair provides the tools to reverse these issues.
How Does A Pro Esports Gaming Chair Help?
All types of ergonomic chairs have two primary objectives. Those are to support a neutral posture and movement while sitting for long periods. The former exerts the least amount of stress on a seated body. The latter mitigates health risks(3) caused by sedentary behavior.
To unlock the full benefits, it’s important to use a gaming chair correctly. That means sitting with your feet planted on the floor, hips tucked deep into the seat, and your lower back pressed into the lumbar support.
Over long periods, this position exerts the least amount of stress on your body. Once your body adjusts to sitting this way, expect myriad benefits. Those include:
- No more headaches: good posture reduces the neck tension that causes migraines.
- Improved energy levels: an aligned, supported body doesn’t need to work the muscles as hard. That leaves a huge surplus of energy to use on focused computing productivity.
- Reduced joint stress: with your body in alignment, there is less negative tension in the hips. That, in turn, reduces pressure on connecting joints.
- Greater oxygen intake: a good sitting posture opens the chest cavity, stimulating deeper breathing. In some cases, this yields as much as 30% more oxygen intake with each breath.
- Improved digestion: a slouched body compresses organs, slows digestion(4), and often leads to constipation. A neutral sitting position reverses this by reducing seated abdominal pressure.
To get the best out of your gaming chair, follow these neutral sitting pointers:
CONCLUSION
To determine the best pro esports chairs of 2022, we looked at what chairs the pros are using. Then, we ranked the best chairs based on features, aesthetics, and value for money:
The cheapest model (Razer Iskur) costs $379. The most expensive (Embody x Logitech G) costs $1895. Across the board, these models deliver excellent back support and superb aesthetics.
- Secretlab Titan EVO 2022 Series: best overall
- Herman Miller Aeron: best office-style
- Herman Miller Embody: most adaptive backrest
- Razer Iskur: sleek esports clout chair
- AKRacing Master Pro: ultra-durable classic
- Anda Seat NaVi Edition: pro chair with 6-year warranty
- Sidiz T80: cheaper Aeron alternative
- Noblechairs Epic: stylish German racer
- DXRacer G-Series Series: classic racer with modular extras
With proper usage and good lifestyle habits, these chairs can make you feel happier and healthier. While sitting at a computer, that will make you more energetic, motivated, and focused.
Footnotes
- Valorant Champions Tour Photos, ‘VALORANT Champions Tour 2021: Stage 3 Masters – Day 3’, Flickr, 12 Sept. 2021, https://www.flickr.com/photos/valorantesports/albums/72157719831138357/with/51459947721/, (accessed 4 Feb. 2022).
- Razer, ‘This is esports’, https://www.razer.com/this-is-esports, (accessed 5 Feb. 2022).
- Neville Owen et al. ‘Sedentary Behavior: Emerging Evidence for a New Health Risk’, NCBI, Mayo Clin Proc. 2010 Dec; 85(12): 1138–1141, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2996155/, (accessed 5 Feb. 2022).
- ‘3 surprising risks of poor posture’, Harvard Health 15 February 2021. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/3-surprising-risks-of-poor-posture, (accessed 5 Feb. 2022).
