Do I really need a gaming chair?
Published
Short answer: No, but you do need a supportive, adjustable chair at the right height if you game at a desk for long periods. A gaming chair is one option.
The question is less about the label and more about comfort.
Gaming chair or office chair?
Gaming chairs usually have a bucket-style seat, a tall backrest and bold styling, while office chairs tend to be plainer with a focus on adjustability for long working days. Many people use one chair for both gaming and homework or remote work, so the practical test is the same: does it adjust to the user and the desk, is it comfortable for the length of time you sit, and is the upholstery easy to clean? The product page lists the adjustments and materials for each chair.
Making a gaming chair fit the person
A chair is only comfortable if it fits the person using it. Check the seat height range on the product page against the desk height so the user can sit with forearms level with the desk and feet flat on the floor. Look at the stated weight capacity, whether the armrests and backrest adjust, and the seat width. Younger or shorter users may need a footrest. Try to sit back into the backrest rather than perching forward, and get up and move between sessions.
Set the desk up for comfortable play
The UK Health and Safety Executive's guidance for display screen work is a useful starting point for gamers too. Sit so your forearms are roughly level with the desk and your shoulders are relaxed, keep your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest, and position the screen about an arm's length away with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level. A raised monitor shelf can help with screen height, and a desk that is deep enough lets you keep the keyboard and mouse in front of you rather than reaching.
Products to look at
These are in stock in the Bed Kingdom range at the time of writing; see each product page for the live price, full specifications and delivery time.
- Alphason Senna Gaming & Office Chair – Weight Capacity: 114kg (size guide)
- Alphason Silverstone Faux Leather Gaming Chair – Dimensions: H124cm x W70cm x D70cm; Material: Faux Leather (size guide)
- Kids Avenue Noah Gaming High Sleeper Bed with Gaming Desk and LED Lights in White – Dimensions: H 184cm x W 209cm x D 127cm; Mattress Size: 200cm x 90cm (Euro) (size guide)
- Kids Avenue Urban Grey High Sleeper Gaming Bed with Desk Underneath – Dimensions: 208.5cm x 116cm x 180cm; Mattress Size: 90 x 200 cm (EU Single) (size guide)
- Alphason San Diego Computer Workstation – Material: Multiple Density Particleboard (size guide)
Browse more: Gaming chairs, Gaming furniture, Gaming furniture sale.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a gaming chair?
No, but you do need a supportive, adjustable chair at the right height if you game at a desk for long periods. A gaming chair is one option.
Can a gaming chair be used for work or homework?
Yes, if it adjusts to fit the user and the desk. The same comfort checks apply to both.
How should a gaming chair be adjusted?
So feet rest flat, forearms are level with the desk and the user sits back into the backrest. Check the seat height range on the product page.
What is the right screen position at a gaming desk?
About an arm's length away with the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level, following HSE display screen guidance.
Who can I ask for help choosing gaming furniture?
Bed Kingdom customer service on 01924 950108 or support@bedkingdom.co.uk.