If you’re looking for the best gaming chair under $200-$400, you’re going to get a lot of hits. While there are some quality chairs under that price, it takes a trained eye to pick out the best.Luckily, our team of testers have come up with a worthy list and review of the best models for a range of features.
- 1 Best gaming chairs under $400
- 2 Buying Guide for the Best Gaming Chair Under 300 Dollars
- 3 Benefits of a Gaming Chair Under $300
- 4 Should I Buy a Gaming Chair Under $300?
- 5 What is the best gaming chair under $200?
- 6 Can You Buy a Gaming Chair under $300?
- 7 Can Gaming Chairs Improve Your Gaming Performance?
- 8 How thick is the cushion?
- 9 Can you sleep on a gaming chair?
- 10 Does it feature a footrest?
- 11 How much weight does it support?
- 12 Does it have a headrest?
- 13 Does the chair have a lumbar massage pillow?
- 14 Does it have adjustable armrests?
- 15 Can it be used as an office chair?
- 16 Does the chair have a reclining function?
If you’re a video game fan, you’ll know that hours can fly by once you’ve entered the exciting virtual world. And sitting in an uncomfortable chair for a long time can really put a damper on your gaming experience. If you don’t notice it, your body will.As much as you love spending hours playing your favourite games and communicating with your online friends, you may not be ready to spend a fortune on an ergonomic gaming chair. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a solid, ergonomic gaming chair.
Based on our long history of testing gaming chairs, we’ve found that $300 is the sweet spot for the best value. It’s the price point where you can get most of the premium features, such as a sturdy metal or aluminium base, cold-cured foam padding and 4D armrests, without paying $500 or even $600.If you are looking for a budget gaming chair, we can help. We have rounded up these chairs with the perfect balance of price, durability, comfort, weight capacity and ergonomics in mind.
Best Gaming Chairs Under $200-$400 2023
1.AKRacing Core Series EX-Wide Gaming Chair

Pros
- Solid construction with zero squeaking
- Smooth fabric upholstery that’s also breathable
- High-density foam won’t depress over time
- Wide 3D armrests
Cons
- Bucket seat design not ideal for wider people
- Seat cushion on the firm side
The first thing you’ll notice about all AKRacing chairs is their solid construction. The AKRacing Core EX is no exception. The sturdy steel frame has an anti-corrosion finish that improves its durability and ensures it won’t rust. The five-legged base is also made from solid metal, unlike cheaper gaming chairs that use nylon (hardened plastic).
Unlike cheaper gaming chairs, the Core EX’s interior padding is made from cold-cured foam. At almost 5 times the density of regular foam, this cold-cured version retains its shape much better over time. The entire chair is covered in premium polyester fabric, which is soft to the touch and breathable.
We were also impressed with the gaming chair’s backrest and 3D armrests. The backrest is extremely well padded and can recline an incredible 180 degrees to fully stretch your back. The wide armrests both swivel and move back and forth to support your arms in any position.
The only potential downside to this chair that you might not like, especially if you’re on the taller side, is the bucket seat design. The flaps on the seat appear to be more curved inwards and can be too narrow if you have thicker thighs. For your information, the usable seat width is 15.5″.
2.Ficmax Gaming Chair

Pros
- Strong frame
- Suited to different body types
- Great comfort and tilt quality
- Adjustable features
Cons
- Short headrest and pillow
For a sub-$300 gaming chair, the ergonomic design is top notch. You get a wrapped basket, multi-point fixed support and adjustable head and lumbar support.
The latter can be massaged to fit the curve of your body, which is ideal for providing back support and limiting fatigue. The lumbar pillow also acts as a massager, although it can be powered from the included 5V USB port. A power band or laptop will do the trick.
If you’re looking for excellent comfort, you’ll love the fact that the chair can be adjusted between 90-180 degrees. There’s also a 15-degree tilt and a retractable footrest. So you can regain your strength when you lean back.
The thickened armrest follows suit with soft leather, so your elbows won’t hurt after long hours of work or play. Users who weigh more than 300 pounds will also find this chair useful.
3.High Back Gamer Chair with Footrest

Pros
- 12 months warranty on parts
- High-quality faux leather
- Easy-to-follow instructions
Cons
- With time, the armrests might start wobbling from side to side
4.GTRACING Gaming Chair Racing Office Computer Ergonomic

Pros
- Soft PU leather
- Class 3 gas lift cylinder for height adjustment
- Lumbar & headrest cushions
Cons
- The assembly might take about 2.25-2.5 hours
This chair is wrapped in red faux leather in a sleek, race-inspired shape that gives you an immersive gaming experience. And if red isn’t your colour of choice, there are eight other colours to choose from. The GTRACING Gaming Chair also features well-cushioned seat, lumbar and headrest cushions that will keep you comfortable during long gaming sessions.
However, as cool as this gaming chair is, be warned that it can take up to 2.25-2.5 hours to assemble. It’ll be worth it in the end.
5.Dowinx Gaming Chair Office Chair PC Chair

Pros
- Massager lumbar
- Retractable footrest
- 90°-180° reclining
- Holds up to 350 pounds
- Quality handsewn PU leather
- 1-year parts quality warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for a taller person
One of the key features of this chair is the USB Power Massage. This feature provides gentle pressure to relieve sore muscles while you play games. You can also adjust the arms and footrest to suit your position. A 90-degree recline is perfect for reading in bed or watching TV. The chair is designed for durability. It is easy to adjust and will last a very long time.
This product is ideal for gaming enthusiasts as it offers luxurious comfort. Its comfortable foam is perfect for long gaming sessions. There is also plenty of room to adjust the armrests and backrest. The Dowinx Gaming Chair is a great gaming chair that offers premium quality without the high price tag. Its ergonomic design is great for long gaming sessions and it has multiple adjustment features for your comfort.
The Dowinx Gaming Chair is made from thick foam, which means it will last for many years. You won’t have to replace it often. It’s a great investment. This chair offers 90°-165° recline, 360° swivel and 20° controllable tilt. It is a strong and sturdy chair made from environmentally friendly materials.
6.Gaming Chair Racing Footrest Massage Computer

Pros
- 4-inch multi-layer memory foam cushion
- Limited 2-year warranty
- Glossy leather appearance
- Built-in headrest
- Supports 330 pounds
Cons
- The leather is tough
This gaming chair comes with clear instructions and impressive features, including 360-degree swivel and 90-135-degree recline. The high back design wraps around your entire back. The PU leather upholstery is comfortable and provides a luxurious feel. This is the perfect chair to relax in while playing your favourite game. It has a 330 lbs weight capacity and is made with 4 inches of memory foam. The Luckwind Gaming Chair comes with a money back guarantee and a two year limited warranty.
The LUCKWIND Racing Gaming Chair is designed to mimic a racing car seat. It has a padded headrest and dual-directional castors that allow you to move around the gaming table without straining your neck or back. It has a high-back design and can be adjusted to different angles, including the backrest. It is also comfortable and comes with easy-to-follow instructions.
7.GT Omega Elite Racing Gaming Chair

Pros
- Solid steel and aluminum body
- Cold foam padding and tear resistant PVC leather
- 4D armrests that move in all directions
- Beautiful stylish design, great for both office and home setup
Cons
- Bucket seat design not ideal for wider people
- Seat cushion on the firm side
In terms of features, the GT Omega Elite one takes the AKRacing Core to the next level with 4D armrests. Not only are they adjustable in length and angle, they can also move sideways to support your arms, even if they are wider or shorter than average. We also love the multi-tilt mechanism on the backrest, which rocks and tilts the backrest up to 160 degrees.
The defining factor of gaming chairs costing $300 or more is the higher build quality compared to cheaper chairs, and the GT Omega proves this point resoundingly. The frame is made from tubular steel that is strong enough to support up to 265 pounds with ease. It also has an aluminium star base that is even stronger than metal to ensure maximum durability.
One owner of the GT Omega was blown away by the quality of the chair and said he was surprised it didn’t cost more than the $300 asking price.In terms of drawbacks, the GT Omega shares similar quibbles with the AKRacing Core. The seat is on the firm side and the usable width is around 15.7″. This means that if you’re either tall or lanky, you’ll probably find the GT Omega a little too cramped for your liking.
8.RESPAWN 110 Ergonomic Gaming Chair

Pros
- Padded armrests
- Limited lifetime warranty
- High-quality faux leather
Cons
- The seat cushion might deflate relatively soon
Whether you’re deep in a gaming session or at work, this gaming chair will provide you with luxury and comfort all day long. With an extendable footrest, upholstered armrests, adjustable headrest and lumbar support, the RESPAWN Gaming Chair will impress you with its multi-functionality.
Once you have found your optimum position, time will fly. And don’t forget that this gaming chair also comes with a lifetime guarantee, although you should be aware that the seat cushion may deflate a little over time. That depends on how much you use the chair.
9.AutoFull Gaming Chair 5.1in

Pros
- Carbon fiber and PU leather material
- SGS certified 4-level cylinder
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- The cushion isn’t very breathable
This gaming chair features a multi-splice backrest, thick bucket seat, retractable footrest, adjustable head and lumbar cushions, and even 2D adjustable armrests. What more could you ask for in a super durable gaming chair for under $300? Probably not much. Plus, the carbon fibre and PU leather material gives you a better feel.Although the upholstery material is nice and soft, the padding might not be as breathable as you’d like.
Best gaming chair under $200
10.Homall Ergonomic High-Back Racing Chair

Pros
- Steel Frame
- Lumbar Support
- Adjustable and ergonomic
Cons
- Limited color options
Homall’s ergonomic high-back gaming chair is designed with a tight budget in mind. It doesn’t have any crazy features atypical of a budget gaming chair, but in this price range dependable mediocrity isn’t a bad thing, per se. That’s especially true since this is the best-priced gaming chair on this list.That being said, it does have a few features that help it find its own niche: a footrest, adjustable armrests (which can be hard to find at times), a long back that gives additional support for your neck and shoulders– making this a solid choice for taller gamers– and auto-locking castors.
The castors are weight-activated, providing optimum movement while seated. Once you stand up the braking mechanism activates and holds the position in place, ensuring the safety of the player and the chair itself. Once you sit back down the castors will unlock and move freely once again. This is the feature we liked most about the chair.Reclining the chair is simple – the back of the chair can be adjusted to any body weight by leaning back, finding the perfect position, and locking it into place. The chair also sports adjustable lumbar support, and the footrest is customizable as well.
11.Furmax Video Gaming Chair Ergonomic

Pros
- 360 degree swivel
- Steel tubular frame
- Removable headrest
Cons
- Durability
This Furmax High-Back Gaming Chair has all you need for a pleasant and comfortable gaming experience, all built within a cool racing-influenced design.PU leather upholstery, thick padding, and ergonomic technology ensure a comfortable fit for any body type. Moreover, this gaming chair has soft lift armrests which provide cushy support as you play.
The steel frame and nylon base combine to create a sturdy support system to hold fast, even at the three hundred pounds maximum weight capacity. The sturdy base is also designed to stay steady when the chair is reclined in any position. The pneumatic lift system adjusts smoothly with a pull of a handle, making for easy height adjustment to best suit your body type.Furmax is a respected name in the gaming world, and this chair is a testament to why that is the case. With all the features you need, this chair is ready for your next gaming season.
Best gaming chairs under $400
12.GTRACING Gaming Chair Racing Office Computer Ergonomic

Pros
- Incredible lumbar support
- Great adjustability
- Recline easily
- Comfortable seating
Cons
- Some clients find it too colorful
Features
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN – It features an ergonomic design that comes with a durable metal frame, built to promote a comfortable seated position for the users. Furthermore, it comes with a high-quality PU leather material that makes you feel comfortable.
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL – It is incorporated with the seat cushion, lumbar support, and headrest pillows. Highlighting the heavy-duty base and nylon smooth-rolling casters use for better stability and mobility.
- ADJUSTABLE – This chair provides you an easy way to adjust flip-up armrests and the seat height from 90-170°reclining and rocking along with a 360-degree swivel. It also gives you smooth-rolling casters for better movement.
- REMOVABLE PILLOWS – The best feature of this chair is that it comes with a removable headrest and backrest pillows that allow the user to remove them when not needed.
If you are willing to experience an ergonomically designed gaming chair, then this chair is one of the perfect chairs for you. GTRACING gaming chair is, in short, a full package of all you need for your gaming needs. It comprises all the features and functions regarding comfort.
This chair is listed in this category as it has the ability to hold up to a maximum weight of 300 pounds, which is a noteworthy feature of this chair.It has an ergonomic human-oriented design that seems to be sturdy, comfortable, and classy as well. Its strong and powerful frame is made out of durable metal material that ensures its stability and durability.
13.AKRacing Core Series EX Gaming Chair

Pros
- 330 weight capacity
- Designed with ergonomics in mind
- High-quality upholstery material
- Roll smoothly on all kinds of surfaces
Cons
- Not suitable for a bigger man
Entirely a sturdy chair comes with a lot of facilities to meet the needs of gaming. This chair is from the AKRacing brand which offers you an excellent chair. It gives a racing car chair look so that you can engage in your game more easily.Highlighting major features of this chair like 5-star caster wheels, 3D armrests, padded seat, high-back, and adjustable rocking function.
Furthermore, the high-intensity thicker steel frame is stable and robust enough to support multiple functions at a time. It provides a long-lasting relationship to this chair with you. From head to toe, this chair is all you need to get ultra-comfort for your game.This chair is upholstered with quality fabric along with an anti-corrosive durable metal frame that makes it stable and robust. Although it is not suitable for a bigger man.
Buying Guide for the Best Gaming Chair Under 300 Dollars
Even though you’re out for a gaming computer chair under 300 dollars, you still need to consider several things before parting with your money.
There are different gaming chairs on the market coupled with your interests and requirements to match your body type. To that end, here are some essential things to consider in this buying guide.
1. Ergonomics
If you consider ergonomics an essential aspect of a gaming chair, you’re not wrong. That’s one reason why many gamers want a chair in the first place.
Ergonomics represent a design based on a set of psychological and physiological principles to fit the user best. For example, you can define an ergonomic gaming chair as optimized around the gamer that sits on it. With such details, you users get improved comfort to be productive and efficient.
With good ergonomics, you can maintain a proper posture and enjoy a gaming chair that will support your movements while minimizing the risk of back pains. Also, it helps you improve your game reaction time.
Ergonomic chairs give you more features to adjust. A gaming chair you can configure to suit your height, back angle, and arms are essential. The options reviewed here all have at least two features you can adjust.
Tilt lock and recline functions to help you assume different postures. That way, you can give your back a much-needed rest. Other top ergonomic features that you should look out for in a gaming chair include breathable materials, responsive motion, and more.
2. Weight and Height Capacity
If you’re buying a gaming chair for the first time, it’s easy to forget about this aspect. However, they’re essential because no two chairs are the same. They all sport different weights and height capacities. Moreover, the dimensions of one chair will differ from the next.
Get a chair suitable for your weight and height needs. For example, large chairs are often cited as “big and tall’ while smaller ones will handle lower weight levels.
3. Build Quality
This represents real value and often determines how long your chair is going to last. It doesn’t make sense to buy a chair you’d throw out in a couple of weeks. When on the prowl for one to fit into your gaming rig, ensure that the frame is a durable metal. All other components, such as plastic parts, should also have some measure of quality.
Observe the base of the chair, including the casters and bases. Sure, you want a budget option, but the chair must have a solid base to work or play with.
4. Materials and Upholstery
The top chairs considered here come upholstered in PU leather. That’s because real leather is expensive. For a budget gaming chair, the PU option will suffice. It still has enough quality and is the best value for money. Other chairs have a synthetic web or microfiber upholstery.
Underneath the upholstery, breathable material is another thing to consider. That’s why some chairs have breathable mesh upholstery, so that heat irritations don’t occur. If you sit for long hours, you’ll want an upholstered chair that makes you sweat less.
5. Extra Pillows and Cushion
Additional cushions have become the norm on many gaming chairs. You can look out for the cushions since they can be fastened with Velcro or a hook-and-loop system. That helps you add or remove them with ease. Pillows are available for the armrests, head, neck area, and lumbar support.
6.Adjustable Components
When you’re in the market for the best PC gaming chair, you are looking for the best for you. Just because the reviews are perfect for a chair doesn’t mean it’s perfect for you. All the different shapes and sizes of the human body make this difficult for chair manufacturers – this is where adjustable features come into play.
Below we mention some of the more common adjustable parts and how you might expect to adjust them. And yes, the best gaming chairs under $200 do offer good adjustability.
As mentioned above, headrests and lumbar support are features of an ergonomic design. Along with these features we have armrests and footrests as well. In order to purchase the most versatile and customizable chair, be sure to have all four of these components on your new chair. The more adjustable the better.
- Headrests often adjust up and down or are removable. They need to be quite firm for support of sensitive muscles in the neck and upper back.
- Lumbar cushions tend to adjustable by a lever or are completely removable due to straps. They are typically very dense with little give. These are handy to keep your posture in check and add support to the lower back.
- Adjustable armrests are harder to come by, but they do exist and they’re very important. Usually, these features are adjustable up and down, side to side, or even pivot in some cases.
- Footrests aren’t as common as the above features, which are nearly mandatory even in this price range. You’ll want your footrest to be easily retractable– which is rare– and for it to be sturdy. If you don’t care about a footrest, then that’s fine since most can be removed (or just never put onto the chair to begin with since you have to put it together).
- Misc. You should also consider height adjustment, seat recline, backrest size, etc. All of these factors – depending on how well they suit your body type – will either make or break your experience.
It’s important to note that it is really hard to find a chair that is great in all of these categories whether in this price range or in the premium tier.
7.Types Of Gaming Chairs
Primarily when looking for gaming chairs under $200-$400, price is key. However, with chairs in general there’s a lot to look at.
There are many different types of gaming chairs on the market. We are focused on PC gaming chairs in this article but let’s touch on some other styles so you know the difference:
- Rocking Gaming Chair – These chairs rest on the floor in an L shape. The bottom of the chair is rounded to provide a little bit of movement or rocking. Many of these styles come equipped with speakers built into the headrest. These are more common for console gaming and are frequently seen at Wal-Marts.
- Pedestal Gaming Chairs – These chairs are basically Rocking Gaming chairs… placed on a pedestal. While this adds some height and swivel motion, it also completely nullifies the need for the L-shaped design.
- Racer Gaming Chairs – Racing chairs are designed for racing games, at least originally. Not unlike many PC gaming chairs, Racer style chairs are designed to be similar to bucket seats in racing cars. Many of these chairs come equipped with a steering wheel and pedals to create a very immersive experience when playing racing games.
- PC Gaming Chairs – PC gaming chairs are the stars of our article and are the most versatile when it comes to gaming. These are familiar since they are identical to standard office chairs for the most part barring mostly aesthetic differences.
After choosing the style of chair you are interested in, there are still several things to consider.
8.Price
The price of your chair doesn’t have to break the bank. Many brands offer a wide price range to suit their customer’s different budgets. Just because something is more expensive doesn’t mean it’s better. Choose wisely and within your means so you can have plenty of cash for the new games or PC gaming hardware you need.
On the other hand, it’s important to invest in a quality gaming chair that is comfortable and, more importantly, will last a long time. If you’re going to be gaming for hours every day (or close to it) you need a chair that’s fit for the task.
Benefits of a Gaming Chair Under $300
While there are many computer gaming chairs on the market, varying from $100+ to a few thousand dollars, here are a few advantages of buying an ergonomic gaming chair under $300:
- It can help you maintain proper posture when gaming
- It can prevent lower back pain
- It can improve your gaming experience
- You can use it for both working and playing video games
- You can choose from a variety of styles and colors
- You can fully adjust it according to your stature and requirements
- You can sleep in it if needed
Should I Buy a Gaming Chair Under $300?
If you’re a dedicated gamer and don’t really feel like spending most of your savings on a chair, you should definitely consider an ergonomic gaming chair in the $300 price range.
Most of these chairs have everything you need for a quality and comfortable sitting and gaming experience. And some can even offer more than you expect. So, outline your requirements and get ready to amp up your future gaming sessions with the help of a high-quality gaming chair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gaming chair under $200?
In our opinion, the Homall Ergonomic High-Back Racing Chair is the best option when it comes to gaming chairs in the sub-$200 price range. It offers great support for marathon gaming sessions at an affordable price.
Can You Buy a Gaming Chair under $300?
If you’re on a budget, you can buy a gaming chair for under $300. These chairs aren’t going to have industry-leading ergonomics, but you can find decent options. Lumbar support is one of the most important things to look for, so it’s important to get a chair with good lumbar support.
Most of these chairs have lumbar support pillows that can be removed. Other than lumbar support, the main thing to look for in a budget gaming chair is quality casters, 360-swivel capability, and good materials. Reclining capabilities are also important for gaming chairs.
Can Gaming Chairs Improve Your Gaming Performance?
If you play computer games, you may have wondered whether or not a gaming chair could help you increase your gaming performance. It has been proven to improve your posture and overall performance, allowing you to focus on your game and not your body. Aside from that, a gaming chair is also useful for relieving aches and pains. It can also improve your mental stability, making it easier to concentrate on the game.
In a video game, a lack of focus can cost you a major point, a match, or even the game. That’s why it’s important to minimize distractions during gaming, especially if you’re playing multiple monitors. A gaming chair can help you stay focused, thereby improving your gaming performance.[1]How A Gaming Chair Can Improve Your Performance?
How thick is the cushion?
If you know you’ll be using your gaming chair all day long, you should go for a model that features a thicker memory foam seat cushion. Thinner cushions might deflate with time if you use the chair non-stop.
Can you sleep on a gaming chair?
Yes, you can sleep on a gaming chair, but we don’t recommend it. Gaming chairs are designed for sitting in, not sleeping in. Sleeping in a gaming chair can put unnecessary strain on your spine and neck. If you want to take a nap, we recommend lying down on a bed or couch instead.[2]How To Sleep In A Gaming Chair
Does it feature a footrest?
While it’s not a must for gaming chairs, a footrest can help you rest between your gaming sessions or simply daydream in a comfortable position. So, if you believe you could benefit from it, go for a gaming chair with a footrest.
How much weight does it support?
Weight capacity is crucial if you’re looking for a gaming chair that would support more than 300 pounds. Some chairs might seem sturdy but to be sure, always check the manufacturer specifications. You don’t want to pay for something that can break instantly.
Does it have a headrest?
Most gaming chairs offer a headrest. It can be either adjustable or built-in. Depending on your preferences, you can go for either of them. Just ensure it’s a comfortable one and that you’ll be able to use it the way you want.
Does the chair have a lumbar massage pillow?
Now, many gaming chairs feature USB-powered lumbar cushions to help you ease back pain and feel more comfortable while gaming or working. The price difference between the chairs with a massage pillow and without isn’t significant. So, if you believe you will use this feature at least a few times, it’ll be worth it.
Does it have adjustable armrests?
Again, this is not a breaking point, but it’s definitely a nice feature to have. If you don’t use armrests much, you probably don’t care about their adjustability. But if you often use them, we recommend taking a look at gaming chairs that offer adjustable armrests.
Can it be used as an office chair?
If you need a gaming chair that would also fit into your home office interior, there are quite a few racing-style gaming chairs that look like executive chairs. So, if you don’t want people on the other side of your camera to know what you do in your free time, this gaming chair would be the best fit for you.
Does the chair have a reclining function?
This feature is important if you really want to find the most comfortable sitting or lying position. Some people might want their gaming chair to recline up to 180 degrees, and some are okay with only 150 degrees. Decide what your requirement is, and then check it out in the chair’s specifications.
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