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Whether you’re new to gaming or simply ready to update your gaming setup, you’re probably already convinced that a new gaming chair would make your experience all the more epic. And you’re not wrong. But when it comes to compact gaming chairs or finding a gaming chair for small spaces, the search can be frustrating. One would think that with all the young people gaming today, buying a mini gaming chair would not be the challenge that it is – but one would be wrong. But that’s why we’re here!
In the blog article below, we’ll examine why you should consider buying a gaming chair, how to pick between the mini gaming chairs available for a small space, and more tips to make your shopping a breeze.
Why Should You Buy a Gaming Chair?
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The short answer is: For looks and features. Gaming chairs are meant to provide gamers with a piece of furniture that is as aesthetically appealing as it is functional. For instance, racing-style gaming chairs are designed specifically with a bucket-style seat to make sure riders stay in the right spot in racing games.
People tend to buy gaming chairs when they’re updating or decking out a gamer setup for the first time. For live streamers especially, they’re a must. So if any of those apply, you should definitely start shopping around.
Should You Get a Gaming Chair for Work?
We guarantee you: Every single WFH-er who also games from the same spot has looked at their setup and thought to themselves, “Is a gaming chair good for office work?” After all, they certainly look cooler than most office chairs. And no one short on space wants to deal with two chairs. The answer is, you could…but you probably shouldn’t. Frankly, most people prefer office chairs instead of gamer chairs for work. Office chairs generally feature better ergonomics, are easier to buy based on size requirements, and are cheaper.
Although gamer chairs can be quite comfortable, that’s not their chief purpose. As a piece in USA Today explains: “Because gaming chairs (typically) provide enough comfort for a few hours at a time and tend to lack the ergonomic support of a well-designed office chair.” So, if your WFH tasks require long hours at the desk, you’re probably going to want to shop the office supply stores.
How Much Are Gaming Chairs?
For those of you wondering, ‘How much do gaming chairs cost?” the answer is – as with most things – “It depends.” If you choose one of PC Magazine’s top picks for 2023 gaming chairs, you’ll be dropping close to $2k on a Herman Miller designed ergonomic masterpiece. If you pick one that sits on the floor, however, you’re going to be looking at a much smaller price tag. The five-star rated BirdRock Home Adjustable Memory Foam Floor Chair, for instance, rings up for under $100, including tax.
If you’re looking for a chair without all the bells and whistles of a typical “gamer chair,” and have price on your mind, we’d again recommend looking at office supply stores for available options. Given the rise of working from home, and the downsizing of many office spaces, there are serious deals to be had for both new and used chairs.
How to Pick a Perfect Gaming Chair for a Small Space
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If you’re short on square footage, be sure to specifically choose a gaming chair for small spaces. There’s nothing worse than buying a piece of furniture that is too big and bulky for its surroundings. At the same time, you need a gaming chair that fits your body’s shape, weight, and movement style. Luckily for us, gaming chair manufacturers have thought of a solution for different environments – and body sizes.
Most people on the hunt for a small gaming chair for bedroom setups end up with either a floor rocker model or a chair that doesn’t offer much in the way of horizontal spread. Recliners – or even gaming chairs with footrests – are simply not going to work properly without the right amount of room. Take measurements for what your spot can fit both horizontally and vertically and go from there to find the perfect chair.
Are There Gaming Chairs for Short People?
The short answer: yes. If you’re on the lookout for a gaming chair for a short person, you’re not alone – and the gaming chair industry understands that. There are many options on the market to choose from, though some are designed specifically for kids. For adults of smaller stature, Ergonomic Trends recommends you look for a gaming chair with a seat height of at least 18” and room for at least one or two fingers between the back of your knees and the edge of the seat.
If you’ve already acquired a gaming chair that is a bit too high, the writers recommend adding a footrest. We also recommend adjusting anything you can (including armrests) and adding pillows for neck and back support.
What is the Best Gaming Chair?
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At the end of the day, the best gaming chair for you is the one that fits your body, your space, and how you plan to use the chair. Don’t get suckered into spending too much on a chair that doesn’t fit your requirements. And, regardless of cost, any chair that doesn’t fit your requirements is already too expensive.
For those of you pondering the eternal question, “Is a gaming chair worth it?” – if you find one that matches your body, your home, and your lifestyle, then probably. But there are many, many office chair options available that will likely check the same boxes. With office chairs, you might even be able to go to a store and sit in a few to test them out in person. Ergonomic chairs will always cost more than basic gamer chairs or office chairs, but they’ll also be more comfortable for your body over the long haul.
We hope we’ve provided enough info to be helpful on your search for mini gaming chairs – but not so much that you feel completely confused about where to go next. There are plenty of online resources to check out, including those we’ve linked to above, that can help you narrow down the choices and decide if a gamer chair is right for you. Also check out our recent post, How to Build the Best Gaming Setup in 2023 for Beginners which can help you think about your entire space – and how whatever chair you consider will fit into it.
