If you're shopping for a computer chair online, you might've seen a few variations described as "ergonomic" or "gaming." That's because there are two types of chairs you can get which will suit your preference and needs better. Here are some of the factors you should consider before buying one.
Design
If you're looking for a chair that can match your gaming rig, then you might choose to purchase a gaming chair. They usually have vivid colors to make them more aesthetically pleasing. There are various colors and colorways you can choose from.
Basically, they look more like car seats than actual chairs. They tend to have a higher backrest and are usually straight up with a built-in lumbar support. Some models come with footrests for a more comfortable gaming experience since that's what they're typically made for.
As for ergonomic chairs, they can blend in better with your surroundings since they don't pay much attention to design. You'll usually see these chairs in ground colors, black or white. While some models have backrests that go as high as your head, there are those that don't exceed your shoulders.
Adjustability
Both are adjustable in many ways, but given that they have different functions, the areas you can adjust are also different. With gaming chairs, the adjustable aspects are those that can affect the way you play, like the armrests or the recline, so that you can play in a more relaxed way.
As for ergonomic chairs, they focus more on support since you typically use them for long working hours. Unlike most gaming chairs, which mostly provide support using a neck cushion, ergonomic chairs have adjustable headrests.
Some models give you the freedom to adjust the height, tilt it according to your preference, and even remove it. The lumbar support can be adjusted too. In some ergonomic chairs, you can shift the height of the back support so it would better suit your height and posture.
Gaming chairs are better for reclining, especially since some can recline as low as 130 degrees. Since ergonomic chairs are mostly used for work, you'll be limited to a small adjustment only, which can help you sit better when your monitor is positioned higher, for instance.
Read Also: Working from a Computer? 5 Reasons to Invest in an Ergonomic Office Chair
Materials
Gaming chairs are often covered in leather or synthetic leather, which makes them look more like car seats. There are models now that use fabric instead of leather, sometimes even both, but you'll find that most still use leather.
Ergonomic chairs usually use fabric or mesh, making them more breathable. A lot of ergonomic chairs now have mesh backrests, which means that there will be more airflow. You'll be thankful for that, especially if you live in a place with a hotter climate.
Other than the fact that leather is hot on the skin, it can also dry out and crack in higher temperatures, meaning that your chair won't look neat and cool for long. The only downside to fabrics on ergonomic chairs is that they are more prone to stains than leather, which you can easily wipe.
Pricing
With gaming chairs, the most popular and expensive brand you'll encounter is Secretlab. Many well-known gamers use this brand, and it could cost you between $540 to $999. That's well above the average price of a gaming chair, which is around $200 to $450.
As for ergonomic chairs, Herman Miller is also a famous and expensive brand. The Herman Miller Mirra 2, for instance, costs $1,410. There are cheaper office chairs that have great quality, according to their buyers, such as the Sihoo M57 office chair, which only costs $300.
Related: 9 Factors to Consider When Buying a Gaming Chair
