Best gaming chair

The best gaming chair can make all the difference when it comes to playing games, working at a desk, or even just lounging around and chilling in your PJs. No, really - well, maybe not the PJs bit. Alongside supporting your spine and encouraging better posture (because back pain sucks), they'll make the time you spend on your backside infinitely more comfortable. These are arguably some of the most important gaming accessories you can get, so it's wise to do your research and pick a good one. Which is where we come in, of course.

Our team of experts have rounded up what they think are the very best gaming chairs, and we've been careful to include something that'll suit every budget. Because here's the thing; you don't need to spend a fortune to get your hands - or butt, I suppose - on a great seat. Seeing as the style will only carry you so far (you need more than racing stripes and a bucket-seat design to make a good chair), this guide also recommends nothing but the cosiest, most adjustable, and supportive seating. Most allow you to change everything from tilt to seat depth, and they're made from premium materials that aren't going to fall to bits at the first opportunity either. In other words, they'd make awesome additions to any home or office.

The Iskur has a relatively familiar shape and form to it but some distinct differences are present that help it stand out from the crowd. First of all, and what will be the clincher for some, is the adjustable, built-in lumbar support. This is a trapdoor-like mechanism that features a cushioned and curved lumbar support which can be flipped out from the back of the chair to varying degrees depending on how you prefer the support. Instead of a one size fits all shape, or separate cushion, this elevates the chair to another level - particularly given that area's habit to be a troublesome area for those who work and play at desks. The shoulder support is good, and doesn't thrust them forward uncomfortable, and the overall adjustability of the seat, back, and arms is excellent so you'll easily find a setting that you'll like.

The aesthetic is what we'd call 'slightly understated Razer'. There's no RGB lighting, but the black with green detailing is very Razer featuring the brand logo once on the back and once on the front. It's very stylish in reality, and one of the team isn't embarrassed about it being in the corner of their living room at all.

A great chair from a great gaming hardware maker - this is a premium but quality option.

Although it's a little shorter than you might expect, that doesn't take away from the Puma's comfort. Fitted with a blend of pleather and fabric mesh over foam, it's cosy for long periods of time regardless of whether you're gaming or working. After extensive testing in the GamesRadar+ office, I can personally recommend it. In fact, I found it more comfortable than some premium options.

What's more, it's straightforward to put together and easy to adjust - the Puma was much easier to build than other, heavier alternatives we've used. OK, so the branding is a bit in your face. But if you can see past that, the Brazen Puma is one of the best gaming chairs for those wanting to save money without compromising comfort.

Offering a firm back and seat to encourage better posture, the Hero is exactly what you need if you're going to be spending countless hours at your computer or console. It's comfortable for long periods of time, and the armrests can be adjusted to suit you.

If you're looking for a flashy chair with lots of gimmicks, this might not be it. But for someone who fancies a dependable, well-made chair that'll last you for years and help out your back? This is arguably the best gaming chair available.

It's pricier than budget-level entries, sure, but the Racing Core is worth spending extra cash on if you can spare it. The build-quality is a few steps above cheaper models, and it includes that all-important lumbar support. This model looks great as well with a slightly more subdued, professional appearance. What's more, you can choose between black, white, red, and blue accents to go with its pleather surface.

As with many other suggestions amongst our picks for the best gaming chair, the Racing Core also features adjustable armrests and the means to alter height, tilt, and the seat. That means you can tweak it to suit you.

Thanks to a soft fabric exterior, the T3 Rush is very breathable - it doesn't retain heat in quite the same way as leather (or imitation leather) alternatives. That means you can stay frosty in both senses of the word. And because Corsair are behind the product, you know it'll last. They're some of the best in the business when it comes to PC gaming peripherals.

'4D' armrests that can be adjusted in any direction don't hurt either, of course. The memory foam cushion and lumbar support is equally welcome. In short, this is a high-quality product from a very respectable name.

It's customisability sets the best gaming chairs apart. No seat is perfect the first time round, so being able to fine-tune it to suit you is important. It's definitely worth the faff of setting up this particular model, anyway (we'd suggest getting help if possible, as the backrest can be fiddly to screw in). And although there's a newer SL5000 model now on the market, we're still big fans of this cheaper alternative. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

What's more, the build-materials are excellent. Fitted with a PVC leather exterior that's stain-resistant and easy to clean, it's incredibly sturdy and feels substantial. It looks fantastic as well. The classy Vertagear logo and lines of neat stitching on the back make the SL4000 feel much more expensive than it really is.