It was inevitable. Razer has successfully attached Chroma RGB to mice, keyboards, streaming keylights, mousepads, microphones, and probably a stray toaster if you leave it in their California design headquarters long enough (see their history of weird and experimental hardware). So, it was only a matter of time before they targeted the ultimate piece of battle station real estate: your backside.

Meet the Razer Soma Chroma, a wireless RGB gaming chair launching worldwide today, June 25, 2026, for $499.99 (€529.99) at Razer.com.

Do you absolutely need a glowing throne that dynamically syncs with your desktop gameplay? No, of course not. Your skill in Valorant isn't going to magically jump three tiers just because your headrest is radiating neon green. But do we desperately want it anyway? Yes, obviously. It’s Razer, and adding immersive RGB to things we didn't know needed it is exactly why we love them.

The light show: Completely wireless RGB immersion

The marquee feature here is the fully integrated, reactive RGB lighting embedded seamlessly into the headrest's shoulder wings. Powered by the venerable Razer Chroma RGB engine, it hooks directly into the Chroma SDK to react in real-time to in-game events across more than 300 integrated titles—including heavy hitters like Fortnite, Valorant, and Cyberpunk 2077. If you aren’t actively gaming, you can cycle through 10 dynamic presets and 16.8 million colors via Razer Synapse to perfectly dictate your setup's vibe.

But here is the genuinely clever bit: it's entirely wireless. Nobody wants to roll their chair over a rigid power cord and accidentally yank a $4,000 gaming rig off their desk. Instead, the Soma Chroma transmits data wirelessly via ultra-low latency Razer HyperSpeed 2.4 GHz for your PC, alongside Bluetooth LE for mobile devices.

To juice the actual LEDs, Razer integrated a tidy storage pocket on the back designed to house a standard external power bank (they recommend a hefty 20,000 mAh or larger unit pushing 20W+ and PD 2.0+) via an included 200 mm USB-C cable. If you don't care about a clean, wire-free aesthetic, you can also just run it straight to a wall adapter. There’s even a built-in control panel directly on the edge of the seat base to let you tweak brightness, cycle effects, or switch wireless inputs on the fly without opening an app.

Comfort Check: Saving our posteriors from the Iskur V2

When Razer dropped the original Iskur, it blew us away with an aggressive, mechanical piston-powered lumbar support system. The premium Iskur V2 doubled down on that adaptive lumbar tech, earning massive praise for back health—but it also brought a punishingly firm seat pan. Meanwhile, the mid-range Iskur V2 X ($299) offered a much softer high-density foam seat but stripped out the adjustable lumbar support completely.

The Soma Chroma chart-corrects here with a brand-new Dual-Density Cold-Cured Foam Seat Cushion. It utilizes two distinct layers working in tandem: a softer upper layer that contours snugly to your body, sitting atop a firmer base layer that maintains its structural integrity over time. The goal is to keep the seat from collapsing or hardening prematurely during marathon sessions while actually offering plush, pressure-relieving comfort.

For back health, Razer ditched the complex, dial-driven mechanical pieces of the Iskur series in favor of a Built-In Ergonomic Lumbar Arch. It's a static, contoured support curve integrated directly into the backrest. While you lose the active left-and-right swiveling of the Iskur V2, you get a reliable curve that won’t shift out of place like a loose lumbar pillow.

Where the features got trimmed

To hit that $499.99 sweet spot while packing custom diffusers, a wireless control module, and a built-in control panel, Razer did have to make a few expected concessions:

• 2D Armrests: The Soma Chroma features basic 2D armrests limited strictly to height and swivel adjustments, a noticeable step down from the highly maneuverable 4D armrests on the Iskur V2 that slide and twist every which way.
• No Built-in Haptics: If you were hoping this would natively integrate the bone-shaking directional haptics of the recently released Razer Freyja gaming cushion, you're out of luck. This is strictly a visual show, though you could easily strap a Freyja onto it if you want the ultimate rumble-and-glow cocktail (and I'll probably do that, since I have one of those).

On the mechanical side, it remains a total tank. You get a reinforced steel frame, a 5-star powder-coated steel wheelbase, a Class 4 gas lift, and premium 6 cm PU caster wheels—the latter being a massive upgrade over the friction-heavy plastic wheels that held back the Iskur V2. It reclines up to 155° with a butterfly tilt mechanism, safely supports up to 150 kg (331 lbs), and comfortably accommodates gamers up to 6'6".

Our review unit just arrived!

The shining throne literally just rolled through our doors. We'll be assembling it, unboxing our beefiest power banks, and seeing if the dual-density foam can truly save our glutes during late-night gaming sessions.

Stay tuned for our full, deep-dive review coming shortly (and you'll be able to see it on future Windows Central Podcasts).

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

If you spend all day typing at a desk for work or playing games for several hours without a break, you're going to need a strong chair to make sure your body is properly supported during these sessions.

One such chair is the tough yet comfy Razer Enki Gaming Chair, which is currently on a 34% discount for $329.99 at Amazon, specifically for its pink-colored design.

Why buy the Razer Enki Gaming Chair?

Our friends at Tech Radar gave us the Razer Enki Gaming Chair a near-perfect score of 4.5/5, stating that it's "a fantastic gaming chair that performs better than its competition at a fairly decent price."

It's easy to see why once you start examining and testing out its features. For instance, the Razer Enki has a solid build that can withstand many years of use while supporting folks who weigh up to 300lbs with no issue.

Its seat is made of a high-density foam covered in soft, synthetic leather, a 21-inch seat pan, and a backrest with 110° extended shoulder arches to provide extreme levels of comfort for a person's upper body.

The Razer Enki also has top-notch lumbar support, so your back doesn't get sore while sitting on it, and various customization options to the chair's positioning to your liking, such as an adjustable seat height and 4D armrests.

The only downsides of the Razer Enki are that its lumbar support and comfy head cushion aren't adjustable, and its MSRP of $499.99 is a bit too much for most people's liking.

However, with this 34% discount at Amazon for the pink variant, you will avoid paying the full MSRP and save $170 in the process.

So, if you're looking for a reliable gaming chair with firm lumbar support for your gaming mother as a belated Mother's Day present, or anybody who likes gaming and the color pink, the Razer Enki Gaming Chair is an easy recommendation.

Alternative discounted models

If you or the person you're buying the Razer Enki for isn't a fan of the color pink, this chair's alternative color variations are also on sale for a limited time.

• $399.99 at Amazon (was $499.99) (Black)
• $399.99 at Amazon (was $499.99) (Quartz)

FAQ

Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.

Secretlab just announced lockable casters for its gaming chairs, which will allow you to lock the chairs in place with the tap of your foot. The lockable casters join a range from Secretlab that also includes extra small casters, rollerblade casters, and static stands (which aren't technically casters).

Secretlab makes some of the best gaming chairs. But the lack of lockable casters has been a glaring omission by the company until this point.

We've covered Secretlab for a long time. Recently, we reviewed the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, which uses next-gen materials to improve on the already excellent TITAN Evo. I also covered the Secretlab Pokémon collection last month.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo is ranked as the best gaming chair by our friends at PC Gamer, Tom's Guide, and TechRadar.

Heck, I even reviewed a tiny version of the Secretlab Titan designed for children and dogs. The lockable casters would be quite handy for that tiny chair since my dogs kept moving the chair around accidentally.

If you enjoy racing sims or flight sims with pedals on the floor, having a lockable set of casters is essential. Lockable casters also prevent your chair from drifing on smooth surfaces like hardwood floors.

A set of five lockable casters costs $49 through Secretlab's website. The casters are compatible with several Secretlab gaming chairs.

Compatible with Secretlab Lockable Casters

• TITAN Evo (Small)
• TITAN Evo (Large)
• OMEGA 2020
• TITAN 2020
• TITAN Evo Lite (Regular)

Not compatible with Secretlab Lockable Casters

• Secretlab TITAN Evo XL
• TITAN XL 2020
• TITAN Evo Lite (XL)

It's a bit strange that lockable casters have not been an option for Secretlab chairs until now. I know some gamers sit in the same spot as they play at a desk, but I assumed there was a demand for being able to move a chair and then lock it in place.

Regardless, it's an option now, and you can upgrade your Secretlab chair with lockable casters starting today.

Which chair do you have at your desk or table? Does it have wheels? Let us know in the comments!

I'm testing a fair amount of chairs these days, from the lackluster E‑WIN Champion Upgraded chair to the gaming-centric Razer Iskur V2 X, which ended up being just the replacement I needed after my old chair bit the dust. Now, I've been privileged yet again to review FlexiSpot's "Premium Back Support Ergo Chair C7 Morpher" with meshing and an added footrest (let's just call it the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher for short).

This is the most extravagant chair I've ever tested, so I was curious to see if its quality would live up to its similarly extravagant price of $899.99 at FlexiSpot.com (or $939.99 at FlexiSpot with the added footrest) It's also £499 at FlexiSpot UK, currently down from its RRP of £799, which is a real saver.

After building and testing it for a few days, my worries were quickly dashed. I've been blown away by how comfortable and modifiable this chair is. It's packed to the nines with the most seat adjustment settings I've ever seen, and its ergonomic design and mesh materials brought top-class comfort for my back.

Here's my review of the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher chair.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by FlexiSpot. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review before publication.

Is the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher easy to build?

As always with chairs like this, the best place to start is mentioning its assembly, which was a mixed bag. On the one hand, the C7 Morpher includes an informative instruction booklet with clear directions for putting it together and operating its numerous seat adjustment options.

On the other hand, it was somewhat of a struggle, as several components were quite heavy to lift and hold in place, and their awkward positioning made matters more taxing.

Plus, some of the included screws had trouble fitting into the screw holes because the holes were slightly too small, though your own variant of the C7 Morpher may have more perfectly sized fittings. In the end, I had to get help putting the chair together.

So, if a somewhat strong guy like me, who's capable of lifting big chairs like the Razer Iskur V2 X, had trouble with FlexiSpot's C7 Morpher alone, then someone with lower strength or mobility issues will absolutely need assistance to build this chair (especially if they lack sufficient room space).

As for build quality, the C7 Morpher certainly left me impressed. My unit came with mesh seating material (also available in foam as an alternative), which feels slightly rugged but pleasant and durable to touch.

On top of that, the chair's metal wheel base is durable and strong enough to support me without any issues, and I weigh around 230 lbs as of this writing.

FlexiSpot's website states the maximum weight capacity of this chair is 380 lbs, meaning the C7 Morpher will be more than capable of supporting heavyweight gamers who weigh between 300 and 400 lbs, provided it's assembled correctly.

Is the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher comfortable?

There is a reason why this chair is called FlexiSpot C7 "Morpher," and it's because it features ten seat adjustment options (or eleven if you buy the version with the added footrest), which is the most I've ever seen on any chair to date, period.

These options include an adjustable headrest, armrests, seat height, seat depth, recline tension, seat recline, backrest height, backrest sliding, upper backrest angle, an inflatable air cushion for lumbar support, and a footrest. It was quite overwhelming at first, but once I got the hang of it, I was able to practically mold and reshape every facet of this chair to my exact liking, and it felt so good.

My back felt like it was resting on clouds thanks to its inflatable air-cushioned lumbar support, its padded armrest felt comfy for my arms, and its headrest did wonders for my neck, as it's been a long time since I had a chair with a proper headrest.

Plus, being able to adjust the depth of the bottom seating is an innovative idea. It allowed me to not sit so close to the backrest and adjust it to fit the curvature of my backside better, which improved my comfort and posture while sitting down.

On top of that, the optional footrest was a nice touch as it allowed me to adjust the seat to a more laid-back position for my feet so I can kick back and relax, watching Netflix or playing games on my Xbox.

Should you buy the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher?

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You want the highest quality office/gaming chair money can buy to bring comfort to your back and feet.
• You want a chair with a lot of seat adjustment options.
• You want a chair with clear and easy-to-understand instructions on how to put it together.

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You want a more affordable, budget-friendly gaming/officer that won't cost you close to $1,000.
• You want a simple chair that isn't outfitted with too many adjustment options.
• If you weigh over FlexiSpot's recommended weight limit of 380lbs.

I honestly have no complaints about the quality of the chair as it's that good.

My only real criticism (a nitpick at worst) is that the seat adjustment levers and switches could do with better labelling, perhaps painted in different colors, as the slightly marked diagrams blend too much into the chair's black color scheme.

As a result, I highly recommend that you don't throw away the instruction manual for the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher, as you will need it to remember what each of its numerous adjustments does and avoid accidentally twisting it into an uncomfortable position.

Aside from that, this chair was a delight to use, and its features and comfort levels would give other premium-priced chairs we've reviewed in the past a serious run for their money, like the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen or the Razer Iskur V2.

So, if you're looking for one of the best gaming chairs or best office chairs in the business, I highly recommend the FlexiSpot C7 Morpher, which more than lives up to its $899.99 MSRP at FlexiSpot (or $939.99 at FlexiSpot with the optional footrest).

Secretlab's award-winning gaming chair just received a new set of designs that had my editor and me gleefully messaging this morning. The newly announced Pokémon Collection from Secretlab features Pikachu, Gengar, and Eevee.

I don't consider myself a genwunner, but I do have fond memories of the original 151 Pokémon, so this collection hits close to home.

I've played Pokémon for almost my entire life. I barely have memories from before I discovered Pikachu, Eevee, and Gengar.

The Secretlab Titan Evo is a worthy chair for gaming without any patterns or characters, but seeing the Pokémon collection makes me understand why people chase limited editions and special runs.

Pre-order waves for the chairs opened today. The expected shipping date of the chair depends on which version you choose. All three of the Pokémon chairs cost $684 through Secretlab.

My intro probably seems a bit hyperbolic, but the Secretlab Titan Evo genuinely is one of the best gaming chairs. Our colleagues at PC Gamer even joke about one day finding something to replace Secretlab's entry on that list since it's held the top spot for so long.

"Yes, the best gaming chair, based on hundreds of human hours of testing myriad different chairs, remains one that we've been recommending for years: the Secretlab Titan Evo. And there's good reason for that. It isn't a cheap chair, for sure, but it is more affordable than the best office chairs, and still delivers a great level of comfort and support. And, almost as important, it's incredibly durable, too. Our Titan Evo has been in the office, and well-used for 40 hours a week, all year round, and still looks as good today as the day it arrived."

The Secretlab Titan is comfortable, well-built, and holds up well over time. While it is more expensive than some of its competitors, it has earned a solid reputation for longevity.

The Pokémon Collection versions of the Secretlab Titan Evo have microsuede and velour. They also have the cold-cure foam, pebble seat base that guides you toward the middle of the chair, and softweave plus fabric.

The four-way lumbar support of the Secretlab Titan Evo chairs should help you remain comfortable during long gaming sessions or when working at your desk.

The chairs from the Pokémon collection have some small details that Pokémaniacs will appreciate, such as the Pokédex numbers of Pikachu, Eevee, and Gengar on their respective chairs. Secretlab also snuck in the Pokémon type symbols into the designs.

"Even the subtle line art on the side wings have a lot more depth than what might initially meet the eye. If you look closely, you’ll find that each Pokémon is depicted with a range of poses, expressions and details. We arranged every single one of them by hand to create a one-of-a-kind pattern made specially for fans," said Secretlab.

The Gengar and Eevee chairs also feature other members of their respective evolution lines, including all eight Eevee evolutions. The Pikachu chair lacks Pichu, or either form of Raichu, instead opting for the franchise mascot in different poses. But Raichi always gets done dirty by The Pokémon Company.

I’m still holding out hope for a 'Fat Pikachu' retro edition, but which of the original 151 would you instantly pre-order if Secretlab gave them the Titan treatment? Give me your best (or most obscure) picks in the comments.

At the end of 2025, I tested the E-WIN Champion Upgraded chair, which ended up causing me a huge amount of discomfort in my back, and, to make a long story short, I didn't like it.

I quickly began searching the web for a better replacement. Fortunately, I didn't need to search long as Razer had sent me its Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair to test.

Without the chaos of Black Friday to hold me back, I was able to immediately get to work stress testing Razer's chair. Fortunately, I can confidently say that the Razer Iskur V2 X was a sigh of relief for my back, thanks to its solid and comfy materials with an ergonomic design.

Add on top a much more affordable MSRP of $299.99, and you have a high-quality gaming chair that I would easily recommend to anyone, even if there are some aspects that can be improved upon.

Here is my review of the Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review before publication.

Razer Iskur V2 X: Build quality and assembly

To start off, the Razer Iskur V2 X was quite simple to put together. It was included with a set of instructions that perfectly conveyed how to build it with informative writing and photographs, and it had a set of tools for me to build with no problems.

Still, the difficulty of building this chair will depend on your personal strength and room space. If you're not particularly strong or suffer from mobility issues, you may require assistance to help you build the chair, as some of its parts can be quite heavy.

The build quality of the Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair is top-class. It's Multi-layered Fabric feels nice, cool, and durable to the touch. Plus, its metal wheel base is strong enough to support my 230lb+ body with no issues to its stability, regardless of its positioning.

However, it should be noted that Razer's recommended weight limit for this chair is 299 lbs. So, while gamers in my weight range won't have any issues, this chair may struggle supporting more heavyweight gamers weighing between 300 and 400 lbs, especially if the chair's not assembled as intended.

Razer Iskur V2 X: Comfort, durability, and features

The Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair features a decent assortment of seat adjustment options to help make it more suitable for specific users. These include durable 2D Armrests, a 152° backrest recline, and a hydraulic system to change the seat's height.

After messing around with these settings, I have found that nearly every component of this chair is comfortable to rest on, no matter what position you put it in. The seat feels nice to sit on for many hours, thanks to its contoured high-density foam cushioning fitting snuggly around my backside, and its padded armrests feel nice to rest my arms on while typing.

The backrest and lumbar support feel a bit too stiff for my liking compared to the pillowy seat cushioning. Thankfully, it was nowhere near as rough as the E-WIN Champion Upgraded chair's backrest and lumbar support, and any true discomfort I felt this time was due to bad posturing on my part rather than the chair itself.

Also, I had only recently received this chair with just a week of testing, so I'm confident that once I've broken this chair's backrest and lumbar support in, it will become more comfortable in the long run.

Still, I wished that this chair came with a lumbar support pillow, but those are sold separately at Razer's website for $59.99.

Should you buy the Razer Iskur V2 X?

✅ You should buy this if:

• You're looking for a high-quality and durable mid-range chair with comfortable seat cushioning and armrests.
• You need a chair that's simple and easy to put together.
• A chair that won't cost you over $400.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• You weigh over the 299lb recommended weight limit.
• You want a chair with a softer backrest and lumbar support.
• If you want a chair bundled with a lumbar support pillow to help ease back pain.

While the Razer Iskur V2 X's $299.99 MSRP is pricier than other chairs we've reviewed in the past like the Sihoo M57, its above-average comfort levels and tough build make a strong case that justifies its price point, especially for a mid-range chair that's comparable to the Razer Enki X.

So, if you can't afford to buy the best gaming chairs on the market due to their lofty prices, like the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen or the Razer Iskur V2, then the Razer Iskur V2 X is a great, affordable alternative.

It feels like Razer has its hands in a little bit of everything at this point, but I still more or less know what to expect when I meet with the Razer team... until this Consumer Electronics Show, at least.

If you were expecting Razer Blade updates or new competitive PC and console gaming accessories at CES 2026, you won't find them here. Razer's showings this year were a little different, and I never quite knew what I'd be checking out next.

Razer's gaming AI companion is entering the physical world, the company has decided that smart headphones make a lot more sense than smart glasses, your gaming chair could one day offer all-in-one immersion, and... what else? Oh, the Razer Wolverine V3 is getting a Bluetooth variant designed with your TV in mind. Here's what you need to know.

Razer is experimenting and expanding

It's no secret that Razer has been investing more and more into artificial intelligence, especially given that the company unveiled its own gaming-centric AI companion, Project Ava, last CES.

AI is only becoming more important for Razer (like with many tech companies), and CES 2026 saw Project Ava take on an all-new form supported by a year of growth and evolution. Soon, instead of an unseen presence on your screen, Project Ava will be able to live on your desk as an actual, holographic companion that can see and hear you in real time. I didn't see this one coming, I'll be honest.

This is a real product coming this year, and you can actually reserve your own in the USA. The latest version of Project Ava will be a 5.5-inch, animated avatar contained within a very Razer-esque cylinder, and will theoretically be able to help you in real-life and on-screen with gaming, productivity, and everyday life.

Razer's initial avatars look pulled straight from anime, and the list will apparently grow as Project Ava's capabilities and popularity does. I'm not sure how many people will actually buy into this product, but I have to give Razer props for trying something different and trying to make AI fun in its own way.

While we're on the subject of AI companions that stick close to you, Razer also showed off its spin on the expanding smart wearables market, which is currently dominated by products like AR glasses. Enter Project Motoko, a concept for a pair of smart headphones equipped with dual PoV cameras.

By "PoV," I mean these headphones are designed to actually see exactly what you see by matching your eyeline, while most smart glasses are slightly above. Razer also argues that people are generally more comfortable wearing headphones than glasses, people with glasses don't have to worry about prescriptions, headphones make conversing with your AI companion more private, and — at the end of the day — you can simply use these as a great pair of wireless, Bluetooth headphones.

The idea is to have an always-present AI companion that sees and hears what you do, and can answer questions, provide feedback or directions, suggest ideas, translate languages, recognize images and objects, and more. Project Ava isn't making another appearance here, though, as Razer is planning to leave Mokoto open to the user; you'll be able to choose the LLM or AI companion that best suits your needs, which will run natively on the headphones until it needs your device's internet connection.

As you may have guessed from that last section, Razer is also planning to release Project Mokoto as a real product, but it won't look quite like this. The initial concept is built on something like the Razer Barracuda X Chroma I reviewed, but the final product could look very different (and will be flagship-level). Razer gave me a very tentative "2026" window for a potential launch, but that's absolutely not confirmed right now.

Razer also showed off a concept chair; no, not the concept chair that Razer showed off last CES with the built-in cooling and heating. Project Madison is all about immersion, bringing comfort, audio, haptics, and RGB together in one cohesive product. If you're familiar with the Razer Freya we reviewed, imagine a gaming chair with that built in, and with THX stereo speakers flanking your head, and reactive Razer Chroma lighting baked into the headrest.

Will this ever be a real product? I don't know; unlike the two previous "projects," Madison is following precedent in that it may never be available to purchase — but the ideas and concepts can absolutely influence future Razer products. Something you can buy is the Razer Iskur V2 NewGen. As the name suggests, it's basically the Razer Iskur V2 we reviewed, but with Razer taking in feedback about comfort and ergonomics to make it a better chair.

Finally, there's the Razer Wolverine V3 Bluetooth, a more mobile-oriented version of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we reviewed and loved. This controller takes the familiar design and class-leading controls, but takes advantage of cutting-edge ultra-low latency Bluetooth for maximum performance. It was also designed in partnership with LG, with native integration with the LG Gaming Portal and built-in TV controls.

I always have fun hanging out with Razer, and I can usually count on the company to surprise me with something. At CES 2026, nothing here stood out to me as something I personally need, but I like that Razer is continuing to experiment and try new things, as well as expanding into new categories. Hopefully, Windows Central will get its hands on a lot of this as it releases in the coming months.

What do you think about Razer's hardware announcements at CES 2026? Was there anything you were hoping to see that wasn't here? Let us know in the comments below!

After many years, my old gaming chair fell apart during the summer of 2025. In my search for a replacement, I had an offer to test the latest chair in E-WIN's 'Champion Upgraded' series in early November. That whole month was consumed by the madness of Black Friday, so I wasn't able to write a review right away.

However, that actually gave me extra time to stress-test this gaming chair, which led to some important verdicts. At its retail price of $479.99, this chair is hard to recommend as I found it too uncomfortable to sit in for too long, doing a real number on my back, even with the included memory foam cushion.

Is it just a personal issue, and could it be tempting to pick up at a discount? Here's what I think of the E-WIN Champion Upgraded gaming chair.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by E-WIN. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Build quality and assembly

Putting together the E-WIN Champion chair was simple enough. The chair included a set of instructions that was easy to understand, with informative text and photographs, and a set of tools to help the user put it together. No issues there.

Of course, depending on your personal strength and room space, you may need an extra hand to help you assemble the chair, particularly if you have any mobility issues.

For what it's worth, the build quality of its individual parts is solid. It's "Brisa Ultra Premium" PU leather feels pleasing to touch, and its heavy-duty aluminum wheel base is durable enough to withstand my 230lb+ body without crumpling in on itself, no matter how high or low I adjust its seating position with the hydraulic lift

Now, for those wondering, its weight limit is 400lbs, so gamers in my weight range, and even those a little heavier than me, shouldn't have to worry about breaking this chair if they assemble it correctly.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Comfort, durability, and features

The E-Win Champion Upgraded Chair has a wide variety of adjustment options to make it more comfortable to your liking. They include its 4D "Integrated Dynamic Lumber Support System", 4D PU padded armrests, a 55° backrest recline, a hydraulic system for seat height, and a 15° "Rocking Mode."

It also includes a magnetic memory foam pillow to rest your head on and a lumbar cushion to add extra comfort for your back. However, after fiddling with its settings, I've found the only genuinely comfortable parts of this chair are its armsets, which line up perfectly with my keyboard, and its memory foam head pillow.

The rest of the chair just feels too stiff, as if I'm pressing my back against a hardwood board that's been covered up with a leather cover. Plus, I can't get out of its rocking mode as the lever to adjust the seat tilt stopped working properly after a couple of weeks.

As a result, it has become too flimsy to sit in comfortably, so I have to sit near the edge of a rickety chair to prevent it from tilting too far back (which seems to be a common issue with E-Win chairs, as pointed out by my colleague, Jez Corden, in his E-WIN Flash XL chair review).

Lastly, the extra lumber pillow included with this seat feels too flat and hollow to support my back, so I had to use one of the pillows I use for sleeping as a makeshift replacement, with mixed success. It's particularly disappointing because our Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino, tested an E-Win Champion Series chair back in 2020 and was quite happy with it.

Unfortunately, I don't share his sentiment for this chair, surprisingly so, since this is supposed to be an 'Upgraded' version. I don't have the same kind of lengthy experience with testing chairs, and my introduction was the excellent Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair. Now, this offering from E-WIN makes me miss it greatly.

On the other hand, I don't need years of experience to know when a chair gives me discomfort and even physical pain. Sitting on what feels like a hard plank causes severe pain in my lower back, no matter how far back or forward the backrest reclines or what height I adjust the seat to.

Not to mention, I have to sit at uncomfortable angles to compensate for its malfunctioning rocking mode after only a few weeks. It raises concerns about this chair's long-term durability to the point that I'm wondering if the rest of its adjustment features will fall apart soon, too, despite the decent build quality of its separate parts.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if:

• You enjoy padded armrests.
• You need a chair that's easy to assemble.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• You're over the 400lb weight limit.
• You're on a strict budget.
• You have issues with back pain.

The issues I've experienced with this chair mean its $479.99 MSRP makes it too expensive for me to recommend above others. There are far more comfortable gaming chairs out there at much lower prices, like the Razer Enki X or the aforementioned Sihoo M57, so it was already facing fierce competition.

Even if its malfunctioning lever were a one-off issue with my sample, the price would still be too high for me. Overall, I can't score it any higher and suggest saving your money for the best gaming chairs we know for a fact are worth their premium price, like the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen or the Razer Iskur V2.

I don't play a lot of competitive online multiplayer games anymore, but there's still a soft spot in my heart for Counter-Strike 2, which I've spent hundreds of hours playing. So, color me shocked when Razer revealed a special Counter-Strike 2 collection of its most premium, most performant PC gaming gear.

Razer didn't just do a Counter-Strike 2 collection; it based the designs on the legendary Dragon Lore skin for Counter-Strike's iconic AWP sniper rifle. It's a skin so lauded, there are thousands of requests to buy it for $2,000 or more on the Counter-Strike marketplace.

I went hands-on with Razer's dragon-skinned accessories, and it's easily one of the best-looking collaborations I've ever had in my office. I also love that Razer went all-in by choosing its best gear — the products that many professional Counter-Strike esports athletes actually use during tournaments.

What is the Razer Counter-Strike 2 Dragon Lore Collection?

Razer's Counter-Strike 2 collaboration is comprised of some of its highest-end accessories, so buying just one product from this family can sting your wallet. This is for those who already planned to splurge on flagship gaming gear or the most hardcore Counter-Strike fans.

In the collection, you'll find:

• Razer Viper V3 Pro Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $179.99 at Razer.com, which is $20 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer Viper V3 Pro wireless mouse.
  • You can also bundle this with the Razer Gigantus V2 Counter-Strike 2 Edition large mousepad for $219.98 at Razer.com.
• Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $269.99 at Razer.com, which is $50 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro keyboard.
• Razer BlackShark V3 Pro Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $269.99 at Razer.com, which is $20 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro wireless headset.
• Razer Iskur V2 X Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $399.99 at Razer.com, which is $100 more than the standard version. I have not tested this chair (and decided not to accept the Counter-Strike 2 version for this hands-on).

If you're really committed, it'd cost approximately $1,160 for the entire Razer Counter-Strike 2 Collection, which is about $225 more than if you bought the standard version of each product instead.

Beautiful gold-and-red designs

Unlike so many other collaborations from a variety of companies, this collection isn't the same repeating pattern of logos haphazardly plastered onto off-the-shelf products. Each accessory in this collection is meticulously designed, with new materials, detailed and smartly placed designs, and a consistently varied theme throughout.

It all starts with that gold base, which avoids feeling gaudy in the way that so many gold things do, accented by a deep, bold red and flourished by the iconic "Dragon Lore" design. It all looks incredible when put together, but you'll still notice that each product is different.

The headset is accented more by black than red, and leans more into that beautiful gold color. The keyboard puts that red color front and center, with the "Dragon Lore" design dominating the attached wrist rest. The mouse is the most balanced of the bunch, and I love the dragon fire that naturally rests directly under my pointer finger in use.

There's only so much I can say about these designs — just check out the pictures above. I was a huge fan of the Razer Phantom White Collection I previously went hands-on with, but this collection easily takes the cake for overall aesthetics.

None of these design changes impact usability in the slightest, either. That's especially important when you consider which products Razer chose for this collection.

Actually great PC gaming accessories

Most of Razer's official, licensed collaborations feature more affordable, lower-end gear for mainstream audiences, and even Razer's "Phantom" collections tend to avoid the company's highest-end products. That's definitely not the case here.

If you're going to make a collection for Counter-Strike 2, one of the most popular competitive games with a booming esports landscape, you need to focus accessories that Counter-Strike players will actually want to use, and Razer delivered with its absolute best.

The symmetrical Razer Viper V3 Pro wireless mouse I reviewed is only arguably surpassed by the newer Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro I also reviewed, but the Viper's symmetrical design seems to be preferred by several esports athletes, including Faker and the Sentinels team.

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I reviewed truly can't be beaten as a high-end, high-performance wireless headset — complete with a dedicated Counter-Strike 2 audio profile and a class-leading headset microphone. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro I reviewed is still an incredible keyboard, too, even if it has technically been upgraded in the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 8K my colleague reviewed.

My point is that this isn't just a set for the Counter-Strike fans and collectors, it's also for the players. Razer is already an established brand among the best CS players in the world, and now those players can get their favorite gear with a sick new design. Razer's next special collection will have a hard time competing with this one.

If you're interested, you can check out the complete Razer Counter-Strike 2 Collection at Razer.com.

I'm getting old. Fast approaching my 40s. Random joint pains in tow. Lower back pain on the daily. Long sessions at the PC are taking their toll. Perhaps there's a better way.

Say hi to E-Win!

This isn't the first time I've owned an E-Win chair. Approaching a decade ago now, I owned a different E-Win chair, and sadly had to ditch it because I hadn't anticipated how an office chair might impact my girlfriend's house's wooden flooring ... but fast forward to 2025 and I'm all carpeted up and ready to go.

My last E-Win chair was truly a revelation. With its floating lumbar pillow and generous cushioning, it was, at the time, the best chair I've ever owned. I've had a variety of SecretLab chairs since, as well as other brands, but wear and tear takes their toll on even the best chairs out there.

I had the opportunity to try out E-Win's latest iteration of their Flash XL range, designed for bigger and taller gamers (such as myself), rocking it across a variety of use-case scenarios over long periods of time. I once again find myself impressed, but I can't help but be strongly cognizant of the price here. This chair rocks up to $600, and for the price I feel like it should be a little better.

Build quality and assembly

The first thing that will strike you is the quality of the seat materials. E-Win spared no expense with the Flash XL series, and you'd hope not at the $600 price tag. The leatherette upholstery, high-quality stitching, and generous cushioning all scream premium quality, as well as premium reassurance. We'll talk durability more in a second, though.

This is one of their "XL" chairs designed for bigger customers. I'm by no means skinny, as you might be aware, but the weight limit of 550 lbs far exceeds what even I require. If you're someone on the larger side, this might be a good option for you.

Assembly was incredibly easy. All of the tools required are included in the box, as well as large printed instructions with color photographs to help you get up to speed. Given the size of the seat, however, it might be a two-person job to get it fully set up.

The base feels incredibly hard-wearing, with thick, conical metal struts accompanied by a powerful hydraulic lift in the center. It'll have no problem lifting up even the heaviest users (at least towards the weight limit), and the height adjustments across the board are incredibly generous — suitable for users all the way up to 7 feet tall. I am very much not seven feet tall, so I'm using mine at the lowest setting. At 5'8", I feel like I'm close to being too short for this chair even, since ideally you don't want to feel like your legs are dangling. I'd say people 5'10" will have the most comfortable experience with this chair, unless you get a foot rest or something like that to go with it.

Comfort, durability, and features

The E-Win Flash XL is heavily adjustable, similar to other chairs from the company, complete with additional accessories to enhance comfort.

There's a magnetic "slow-rebound" memory foam pillow for times you want to recline, and there's also a lumbar cushion that you can place at will, either at the base or small of your lower back. In addition, there's a 4-dimensional lumbar support embedded in the seat itself, allowing you to customize the curvature of the seat against your spine. You can extend or suppress this, as well as move it up and down, and it works incredibly well.

The steel frame feels reassuringly durable across the entire product, with no audible creaking. The arm rests are also PU leather-coated and feel comfortable to rest on, and can be adjusted in four dimensions as well, inward and outward, as well as up and down. They line up perfectly with the height of my desk, which gives some added comfort on my arms while typing out this review, in fact.

The back recline is also generous and well-centered, going from 85 degrees all the way down to 155 degrees if you want to get truly chill. You could probably sleep in this chair if you were so inclined (or reclined, haha, get it?)

One gripe with this is the additional floating lumbar pillow. I feel the lumbar pillow on my previous E-Win chair was far thicker and more sturdy than the one included with this one, which I felt was more comfortable. A few days in with this new one, and I've totally squashed it almost flat. It's easily solved by adding in your own pillow there, though, although it might not be necessary anyway. The chair is comfortable enough by itself, but should I need an extra pillow when paying $600?

UPDATE: After a few weeks of use, the seat tilt mechanism has started to fail already. I'm well within the listed weight limit for this chair by under 200 lbs in fact, but the catch that prevents the seat from tilting will often just spring out by itself. I recall this was an issue with previous iterations of this chair too from years ago, so it's disappointing to see that this hasn't been fixed.

Final thoughts

The E-Win Flash XL chair is a decent option for those who either want or need something on the heavy-duty end. Its wide, sturdy base and generous height adjustments would be suitable all the way up to a WWE wrestler — although if you're on the smaller side, you might want to look at some of E-Win's other gaming chairs.

✅ You should buy this if:

• You're a bigger guy or gal looking for bigger support.
• You want something that is spacious and sturdy.
• You enjoy premium materials and build quality.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• If you're below 5'8", you might need an additional footrest to keep it feeling ergonomic.
• You don't fancy spending over half a grand on a chair.

Yes, it is very pricey, though, costing more than an Xbox Series X or most likely the upcoming Xbox Ally. However, this chair feels thoroughly built to last. It might be the last gaming chair you need to buy, and as you get older, your back might thank you.

I do wish the lumbar pillow were a little more generous, but the head pillow and seat overall are very excellent. I'm disappointed that the seat tilt mechanism has already started to fail after a few weeks, despite being well within the listed weight limit. I presume that if you'd spent over half a grand on this, you wouldn't be happy to see it already starting to fail.

E-Win proves itself a decent player in the gaming chair space with this chair, but there's definitely far better options at this price point, like the Razer Ishkur.

Razer's premium gaming chair, the Iskur V2, is now on sale for a not-so-premium price. A discount slashes the cost of the Iskur V2 to $399.99 (down from $649.99).

Following the 38% drop in price, the Razer Iskur V2 becomes much more of a bargain, placing it squarely against mid-range chairs in an entirely new price bracket.

The current price of the Razer Iskur V2 creates a great deal for the chair. It is important, however, to make sure that it is the right chair for you.

The Iskur V2 has excellent lumbar support. During testing for our Razer Iskur V2 review, Cale Hunt found the chair to be supportive and easily adjustable. He went as far as to say the adaptive lumbar support of the Iskur V2 is the best he's ever experienced in a chair.

Razer has a solid reputation across several segments, so it shouldn't be a surprise that the Iskur V2 is built well.

The 4D armrests of the chair were also a standout feature. The armrests can move up and down, forward and back, in and out, and rotate. That kind of mobility is hard to give up once you've experienced it.

The seat of the Iskur V2 is wide, but it is also quite firm. The foam of the chair is supposed to get more comfortable over time, but that didn't seem to happen in over 100 hours of testing by Hunt.

The casters (wheels) of the chair are also a weak point, since they are completely plastic.

Hunt sums up the chair in his review:

"The Iskur V2's lumbar support is the best I've ever tested, but it doesn't distract enough from the hard seat pan that quickly gets uncomfortable. As far as gaming chairs go, it's one of the best, but I can't help but recommend something comfier (and more expensive) for older pros."

Picking a seat, much like picking a bed, comes down to personal preference and your body type. For example, I prefer a firm seat. Then again, I weigh much more than Hunt, so I would sink into the firm seat of the Iskur V2 more than he would.

At $399.99, the Iskur V2 is a much better bargain than when the chair sits at its full retail price of $649.99.

I've reviewed dozens of office chairs and gaming chairs, but my absolute favorite is the AndaSeat Kaiser 3, which is on sale thanks to an April Sale event at AndaSeat that runs now until April 15.

When you also use a special Bestaprsalek330 coupon code, the price of the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 goes down from $499.00 to $399.00 at AndaSeat, while the deal lasts.

This gaming and computer chair has built-in lumbar support that you can adjust to fit your body type. Plus, you can get it wrapped in soft fabric or faux leather, with several colors to choose from.

The newer Kaiser 4 is also on sale and offers a unique lumbar feature, if you're interested.

What makes AndaSeat chairs so good?

I've reviewed dozens of office chairs and gaming chairs, including the Kaiser 3 (at our sister site iMore.com) and the Kaiser 4.

One of the biggest things I've learned over the years is that some gaming chairs and office chairs are really cheap and don't last long. That's not the case with AndaSeat chairs.

AndaSeat offers quality products that have served me and my loved ones well. That's why I recommend this company so often to all my friends and family.

When ordering your seat, you can get the company's chairs wrapped in either a soft linen fabric or a soft PVC leather.

I've used some cheaper chairs where the faux leather is just a thin layer on top of fabric, and it peels off within a few months of use, but that isn't the case at all with AndaSeat's higher-quality offerings.

I've been using some AndaSeat PVC leather chairs for years, and they still look brand new. Plus, they offer a level of comfort I don't always see in rival office chair companies.

When it comes to comfort and lumbar support, the AndaSeat Kaiser line of gaming chairs is a great choice to go with.

Adjustable built-in lumbar support provides comfort that better fits your body

Both the Kaiser 3 and the newer Kaiser 4 have built-in lumbar support, that can be adjusted using the side knobs.

This allows me to get the back support positioned exactly where my back needs it.

The biggest difference between the two chairs is that, unlike the Kaiser 3, the Kaiser 4's lumbar area can be popped forward to give even more custom support to your back shape.

These chairs come in either L or XL sizes, with the XL option capable of holding up to 396 pounds.

There are three colors available for the linen option and seven colors on offer for the faux leather one, so you can get the exact look you want.

Razer's influence extends far beyond high-end gaming laptops like the Razer Blade 16.

Its office and gaming accessories are some of the most popular out there, and its distinct branding and design make it all the way to gaming chairs.

I've had Razer's Iskur V2 — the successor to the original Razer Iskur reviewed by Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino in 2020 — parked at my desk for a couple of weeks, handling my daily work and nightly gaming demands.

While I'm enjoying its extensive lumbar support and 4D armrests, it's not quite as impressive as the hype (and $650 price tag) might suggest.

I want to be sure you know exactly what you're buying. Here's what I love about the Iskur V2 and what doesn't impress me.

Razer supplied me with a review unit of its Iskur V2 gaming chair. It had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Razer Iskur V2: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium gaming chair with adaptive lumbar support, 4D armrests, and faux leather or fabric finish.
• How much does it cost? Starts at $649.99.
• Who is it for? Gamers, office workers who require extra back support.
• What do I like? Superior lumbar support, fully-adjustable padded armrests, sturdy construction without creaking.
• What don't I like? Hard seat pan, cheap plastic casters, pillow headrest.

Razer Iskur V2: Pricing, specs, & availability

Razer's Iskur V2 gaming chair was announced at CES 2024 and was available to buy not long after.

On the market for more than a year, the price has not come down at all from the introductory $649.99.

The Iskur V2 is available to buy directly from Razer, where you'll find the best customization options.

The chair is available in black faux leather with black or green stitching. It's also available in a fabric finish with a "Dark Gray" color.

You can also find the Iskur V2 for sale at $650 at Best Buy and $649 at Amazon.

It's also worth mentioning that Razer offers an Iskur V2 X in a Light Gray or Black/Green fabric combination.

It's a lot more affordable at about $300, but it lacks some of the high-end accoutrements found in the Iskur V2, including adaptive lumbar support.

• Back to the top ⤴

Razer Iskur V2: What I like

After spending a couple of weeks (about 120 hours total between gaming and work) in the chair, I have a clear idea of what works well.

Here's the stuff I really like about the Razer Iskur V2.

Lumbar support doesn't get better

The big selling point for the Iskur V2 is its adjustable (and adaptive) lumbar support.

Whereas many chairs have a dial to add or subtract lumbar depth beneath the cover, Razer's solution sees a big portion of the backrest partly separated from the rest of the chair.

This allows me to tweak the depth (with 40mm of movement) and height (with 60mm of movement) of the lumbar support.

Lumbar positioning is handled by two large dials, one on either side of the chair. They're easy to reach while you're sitting, and it only takes a few seconds to get set up.

I'm someone who squirms around in my seat while I'm gaming and writing, but the lumbar support is designed to swivel left and right to keep in contact with my back. I can feel it moving when I shift.

I'm about 6'3" tall, and the support hits me in the back right where it should.

I also want to add that the backrest is wide enough not to dig into my shoulders when I'm sitting back.

Premium build quality

Razer typically makes high-end products, and the Iskur V2 is no different when it comes to build quality.

The chair, even without the base attached, is quite heavy due to a steel frame inside.

The aluminum and steel five-point base is heavy, sturdy, and balanced. There's no creaking or clanging when I stand up or sit down, and the stitching is clean and tight.

I have the synthetic EPU leather model with black cover and green stitching.

The faux leather doesn't feel plasticky or cheap, although I do wonder how breathable it'll be when summer months come around.

The chair offers adjustable and toggleable tilt (there's a large dial on the bottom to tweak resistance), and the backrest lies back to sit nearly flat.

Everything works. How well it might hold up after a year or two, I can't honestly comment on.

Fully-adjustable armrests

Armrests are one feature for which I'm particularly picky. Thankfully, Razer nailed the 4D armrest design.

They move up and down, forward and back, in and out, and they even rotate.

The top is covered in a textured, rubbery finish that keeps my elbows from hurting; it's not soft, but it's not so hard that you feel any fatigue.

There's a bit of jiggle due to all the moving parts inside, but I've yet to test or use a chair that didn't have some minor movement when the armrests are locked in.

• Back to the top ⤴

Razer Iskur V2: What I don't like

With the pros out of the way, I now turn to some of the cons I've discovered during my two weeks with the Razer Iskur V2.

I've been using X-Chair's X-Tech Executive office chair for a couple of years, and it remains the most comfortable chair I've ever used.

It does, however, cost nearly three times as much as the Iskur V2. I've kept that price difference in mind when testing Razer's chair.

Uncomfortable seat pan

Sitting down in the Iskur V2 for the first time, my immediate thought was: Where's all the seat padding?

Asking my partner to sit in the chair with no prompting, she came to the same conclusion.

The seat pan is much wider on the V2 version, and I appreciate that it doesn't dig into the sides of my legs when I'm sitting.

However, Razer's dual-density foam cushion — which, in theory, is designed to spread pressure across your legs and butt — doesn't provide much comfort.

Seat depth isn't adjustable, either. I'd prefer a bit less depth than what comes stock, but there's no way to change it.

I know the foam is supposed to get more comfortable as you use it, but I feel like I'd be noticing some of those improvements by now.

So far, comfort on one of the most important parts of the chair is lacking.

Cheap casters

My office is floored with hardwood, and I've been worried about scratching it ever since I put the Iskur V2 together. Thank goodness for my office mat.

The casters are definitely a weak spot where Razer cut corners. They're plastic throughout other than the anchor post, which is metal.

The casters don't roll that well (carpet would likely disable them completely), and I'm concerned they'll break at some point despite me coming in well below the maximum 299lb weight recommendation.

Headrest is nothing special

Like many companies making gaming chairs, Razer's headrest solution is nothing more than a pillow that can be attached to the chair with an adjustable elastic strap.

The foam inside the pillow is soft and spongy, and the material on the outside is luxurious. Can't fault Razer there.

My issue is that without the pillow, all you have is a straight-backed section that's mostly devoid of padding under the faux leather.

It just seems a bit cheap on a chair that costs more than $600, though I know this is the normal setup for gaming chairs.

I do have to say, I'll be taking Razer's pillow with me on my next flight. The adjustable elastic strap should allow it to attach to any plane seat, and it is, as I mentioned, very comfortable.

Is it big enough?

I thought I was doing something wrong when I first set up the Iskur V2, but it turns out there's just not a lot of height available for adjusting.

At 6'3", I have the chair at its maximum height, and it's just on the cusp of being too low to comfortably sit in front of my desk.

The 6'5" maximum user height set by Razer is definitely right at the limit.

Razer considers this a medium chair, and I hope to see an XL version in the future. Razer made an Iskur V1 XL, so it's a possibility.

• Back to the top ⤴

Razer Iskur V2 review: My final thoughts

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You value lumbar support over seat cushioning.
• You don't see the need for a real headrest.
• You prefer 4D armrests with full range of motion.

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You want high-quality casters that work well with any surface.
• You want a seat with plenty of cushioning.
• You're taller than 6'3".

The gaming chair market is largely filled with the same racer-style seats with different branding. They range in price quite a bit, but the high-level stuff is mostly dominated by the likes of Razer and Secretlab.

👉 Related: Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen review

The Iskur V2's adaptive lumbar support is the best I've experienced from any chair, even topping the X-Chair X-Tech's adjustable support.

The chair seems to always make contact with the hollows of my back, providing plenty of support no matter how I'm sitting.

It's too bad the seat doesn't offer the same level of comfort.

👉 Related: Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review

The dual-density foam might get more comfortable as I use the chair, but after more than 100 hours of sitting, it has the same hard feel as when I first put it together.

That's really the biggest sticking point for me, and if you already find sitting for long periods uncomfortable (I'm sure plenty of gamers and office workers can relate), this chair isn't going to do anything for you.

I plan to return to my X-Chair if only for the seat padding and superior casters that I know won't scratch my floor, but I'll be thinking about the lumbar support I'm missing out on.

• Back to the top ⤴

Secretlab, one of the world's leading manufacturers of gaming chairs and desks, has announced that one of its newest products, the SecretLab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, is now available for purchase in the UK after releasing in the US in February 2025.

The regular-sized version of the SecretLab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition will cost $669 while the XL-sized version will be sold at the MSRP of $729.

UK gamers are in for a treat because the SecretLab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is one of the finest gaming chairs we've ever reviewed for its comfy yet durable design and high-quality materials.

Here's everything UK gamers can expect to experience with the SecretLab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is an updated version of the SecretLab's Titan EVO chair, released in 2022. It fixes all the problems we've covered in our review of the original Titan EVO chair, while refining all of the good qualities that made it great to near perfection.

For starters, the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition chair's seat is equipped with Secretlab NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette fabric and Secretlab NanoFoam Composite cushioning.

The Hybrid Leatherette is a soft yet resilient material that's 14x more durable than normal PU leather. It features Enhanced UV resistance to protect its rich appearance for years, and enhanced nanofibers that grant the seat extra strength, stain resistance, and abrasion resistance.

The NanoFoam Composite is a cutting-edge supportive cold-cure foam designed by Secretlab. Built by a triple-layer manufacturing process, this microfoam provides extreme comfort and pressure-relieving support for the user without compromising its foundation.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition chair also comes with Secretlab PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Tops fitted onto Secretlab Full-Metal 4D Armrests (Heavy Duty Edition).

The Secretlab PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Tops are sculpted with high-density memory foam to provide pillow-like softness for the user, so their arms can experience optimal comfort and pressure relief.

The Secretlab Full-Metal 4D Armrests feature CloudSwap Technology with an adjustment range of 11.5cm so they can more adjust to a user's preferred height and comfort zone thanks to their upgraded flexibility.

In addition, the magnetic CloudSwap system allows you to select and swap out the armrest tops for another one of Secretlab's other materials available on its website.

Another standout feature of the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition chair is its 4-way L-ADAPT lumbar support system. With this, you will be able to easily adjust the chair's lumbar support up, down, out and its height, tilt, and recline to suit your preferred comfort levels.

The UK is getting its hands on another great gaming chair from Secretlabs

As someone who lives in the UK, I'm happy to see one of the best gaming chairs Secretlab has produced in recent years make its way to my home, especially since I need to replace my old gaming chair which is on its last legs.

Between the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition and the cool Monster Hunter Wilds Titan EVO chair, 2025 is looking to be a good year for Secretlabs.

If you want the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanGen Edition, head over to Secretlab's official website to order one for yourself or your friends and family today.

Razer is one of the most popular solutions to all your PC and console gaming needs, with accessories, peripherals, and devices in almost every category you can imagine. That alone has sold millions, but Razer also regularly does collaborations with other companies and brands to appeal to the mega-fans that want something a little more unique.

I recently went hands-on with a new exclusive "Hello Kitty Edition" of one of Razer's best-selling gaming headsets, but that collaboration didn't personally speak to me. Now, Razer has dropped a new collection centered around the greatest character from the Hello Kitty universe. The arrival of everyone's favorite gothic rabbit girl, Kuromi, has led to some of the best-designed special edition products I've ever seen from Razer.

There's some really cool stuff here for fans and collectors... But none of this gear is anything I actually want to add to my setup. I'm reminded yet again that Razer's best rarely receives the special edition treatment.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Breaking down the entire Razer Kuromi collection

The Razer Kuromi collection comprises six products, of which two are part of one bundle (so five things you can purchase). Each product boasts a unique black-and-purple design, complete with Kuromi herself and a healthy amount of Kuromi-related iconography (such as her iconic skull). Unfortunately, each Kuromi Edition does come with a premium up charge compared to the standard variants.

Here's everything in the Razer Kuromi collection:

• Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition Chair for $549.99 at Razer (instead of $399.99 for the standard black-and-green model)
• Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition Headset for $129.99 at Razer (instead of $99.99 for the standard model or $139.99 for the Hello Kitty special edition)
• Razer Oranta V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition Keyboard for $119.99 at Razer (instead of $69.99 for the standard model)
• Razer DeathAdder Essential Mouse & Goliathus Mousepad Bundle for $69.99 at Razer (instead of $29.99 for the standard bundle)
• Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition Soundbar for $129.99 at Razer (instead of $99.99 for the standard model)
• Bonus: Razer Skins Kuromi Edition for...
  • Nintendo Switch OLED for $19.99 at Target
  • Nintendo Switch for $19.99 at Target
  • Nintendo Switch Lite for $14.99 at Target

All in all, you'd be paying an additional $300 for the complete bundle compared to what you'd pay if you bought this exact setup but without the Kuromi additions. That's a pretty steep increase, especially considering all of these products firmly belong in the "budget" category of Razer's catalog. There's no way to buy everything as a set, but you can learn more about the Razer Kuromi collection at Razer.com.

Everything but the gaming chair is also available to purchase from Target. You can find those links below (and the links for the Nintendo Switch skins above).

A brief hands-on with each Razer Kuromi accessory

Razer was kind enough to send me the entire Kuromi collection, so I was able to go hands-on with it all. Enjoy some pictures and my quick impressions on each product, followed by my conclusion detailing exactly who should buy these special editions... and who should not.

Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition

First off, we have what I think is the best-looking product in the entire Razer Kuromi collection. This is a Razer Enki X gaming chair (which we reviewed), one of Razer's most affordable chairs in its growing lineup. Of course, this Enki X boasts a special livery, and it's actually pretty thorough. The predominantly black design has been replaced by broad swathes of cross-hatched purple fabric, purple stitching, and a ton of cool details.

You have the Razer logo emblazoned in matching purple, Kuromi's iconic skulls below the headrest, and Kuromi herself striking a pose on the back of the chair. This isn't a cheap reskin, nor did Razer haphazardly slap a million tiny Kuromi's onto the existing Enki X and call it a day. I really like how this chair looks, and it is a decent gaming chair beyond the epic aesthetics. Well, the Razer Enki X is, at its normal pricing, but the Kuromi Edition is a lot more expensive, and you're still confined to static lumbar support and relatively limited adjustability.

Usually retailing for $400, the Razer Enki X Kuromi Edition is $549.99 at Razer. Yeah, that's a $150 up charge for nothing more than an alternative design. That design may be awesome and the quality may be there, but you're entering Secretlab territory with that pricing... and the Razer Enki X just isn't as nice as the Secretlab TITAN Evo.

Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition

If you already owned the white-and-pink Hello Kitty variant of this headset, now you can add its black-and-purple counterpart to your collection. When I first saw the former, I thought that Razer probably could've done better — and I was right! This headset looks great, and it's also easier to recommend than the Enki X chair... As long as you're looking for a budget wireless headset to fulfil your needs.

The matte black plastic and purple cushions are obvious, but Razer also attuned the built-in Chroma lighting to Kuromi's iconic color scheme and added some other details. The Kraken Kitty V2's cat ears have also been replaced with... Well, they're not ears. I guess the points on Kuromi's hat thing? Whatever you call it, it certainly gives this headset a unique profile. On the inside, it's the same Kraken Kitty V2 with Razer's familiar sound tuning, 2.4GHz wireless connectivity for PC gaming, and Bluetooth connectivity for everything else.

Build quality isn't exceptional, but that's a characteristic of the headset. The Kuromi Edition alterations are not casual, and there's no danger of your special edition become less "special" over time. If you're interested, you can get the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 BT Kuromi Edition for $129.99 at Razer, which is $30 more than the standard version (that's a fair — if still unwelcome — premium, in my opinion).

Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition

Next, we have the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless, Razer's cost-effective low-profile wired gaming keyboard. This is a solid keyboard for those who don't need anything fancy, as you're getting solid key action, good software support, and Razer Chroma RGB lighting for some added customization. Of course, this version defaults to Kuromi's purple, because it wouldn't make sense otherwise.

As far as special editions are concerned, this one may be the most modest (if only because there's so much Razer could've done). Yes, all the keycaps are purple, and you get some cute Kuromis and other icons scattered around the keyboard, but most of the cool factor comes from the magnetically attached wrist rest in the box. Razer could've done more with a unique font, maybe Kuromi-fied icons for special keys, and even a custom "Escape" key (which seems to be the first key to get its own personality).

I love how this keyboard looks and the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless is a really solid low-profile keyboard, but it's hard to look past what could've been when the Razer Ornata V3 Tenkeyless Kuromi Edition costs $119.99 at Razer, which is a full $50 more than the normal version. To call that a major price increase would be an understatement, as you can start thinking about building your own custom Kuromi keyboard at that point.

Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle Kuromi Edition

This is the least interesting item in the Razer Kuromi collection, but it's for a different reason than the Ornata V3 Tenkeyless keyboard. Razer honestly did a commendable job transforming the budget-tier DeathAdder Essential wired gaming mouse, with grippy pink sides and scroll wheel, a patterned top that blends seamlessly into the buttons, and a glowing purple skull to replace the Razer logo the Kuromi fans don't want.

The Goliathus mousepad is a great option for those that simply need a reliable soft mat for their mouse, and the Kuromi Edition is the same. There's purple stitching along the edges and a randomized Kuromi-themed pattern (with Kuromi herself in the center), and that's it... But what more could you ask for? No, I have no issue with how Razer designed these products, but I do take issue with how this bundle is priced. You see, the Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle only costs $30 — for lack of better words, it's Razer's cheapest entry in its mouse lineup, for those who really don't want to spend a lot for a dependable gaming mouse.

The Razer DeathAdder Essential & Goliathus Bundle Kuromi Edition, on the other hand, is $69.99 at Razer. That's a ridiculous mark-up, seeing as you can get a dramatically better mouse (and still get an equivalent mouse pad) at that point. Don't get this unless you're a collector or mega Kuromi fan.

Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition

Finally, we have what's probably my second favorite entry in the Razer Kuromi collection. The Razer Leviathan V2 X is the company's most affordable PC soundbar, so it's not the fanciest around, but it boasts an attractive and compact design alongside solid sound quality and just enough features to make it interesting. The Kuromi Edition has all of that, but it looks much better than the boring standard version.

You're looking at wired USB Type-C audio for your PC, Bluetooth 5.0 for all your wireless devices, Razer's tuned dynamic drivers, and a series of built-in controls so you don't need any additional software. Of course, you can always install Razer Synapse if you want to customize the 10-band equalizer or the 14 Razer Chroma RGB lighting zones. The Kuromi Edition swaps out the front-facing black fabric for purple, does the same to the buttons, and wraps the entire soundbar in randomized Kuromi-themed icons. Look closely, and you'll find Kuromi on the top and her iconic skulls on either side.

I really appreciate the simple design of this soundbar, and it's a solid option for those who don't need a luxury or hi-fi audio setup. You're not going to impress the guests, but it's good enough for casual music listening and gaming. The Razer Leviathan V2 X Kuromi Edition is $129.99 at Razer, so $30 more than the standard version... Which also feels reasonable, no matter how much I wish we didn't have to pay extra.

Awesome collectibles, but not for my personal use

Purely from a design perspective, I do believe that the Razer Kuromi collection is one of the company's finest collaborations. The consistency, attention to detail, and awesome color scheme make these some of the striking products in Razer's catalog. Sadly, they're also not the products I want to use, and most people probably won't want to pony up the premium just for special editions of these products.

That's because Razer only gave its most affordable accessories (and chair) the Kuromi Edition treatment, which leaves a lot of gamers out of the fun. It makes sense from a business perspective — Razer doesn't want to make a niche special edition of a niche premium product that already sells low volume. Any premium for the Kuromi branding on a product that's already meant to be as cheap as possible immediately makes that product a lot less desirable.

I can't seriously recommend anyone but hardcore gaming collectors and the biggest Kuromi fans spend over twice as much for a budget mouse and simple mousepad just because it has Kuromi on it; or spend an additional $150 on a gaming chair when there are better options at that price; or drop an additional $50 on a keyboard when it has never been easier to build your own, custom dream keyboard. The headset and soundbar are still approachable enough to be forgiven, but I do feel like a lot of people are going to be turned off to some epic special editions because they either cost too much or they aren't the products they want to use.

If one of the Razer Kuromi collection products did catch your eye, you can go back to its section to find the links you need. I'm going to go back to using the Razer gear I know and love... Maybe I'll buy some Kuromi stickers so I can pretend.

Whether you're considering a new chair for your office or gaming setup, or you've simply been on YouTube and Twitch for more than a few hours, it's practically guaranteed that you've heard of or seen Secretlab.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo is one of the most iconic, popular, and critically acclaimed gaming chairs of all time, and Secretlab has refined it over the years with new features, improvements, and versions. Now, a new king has arrived; the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition takes everything great about the current version released in 2022, and perfects it with Secretlab's proprietary "next-gen" materials.

Tens of thousands of hours of research, development, and testing have resulted in the most comfortable, supportive, and durable chair Secretlab has ever released. Any complaints you may have had about the TITAN Evo (2022) likely still apply here, though, and regardless of quality it may be hard to swallow that price. This is the height of premium for bucket-style chairs, but you are getting what you pay for.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Secretlab. Secretlab had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

TITAN Evo NanoGen: Pricing and specifications

• The TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition retails from $799, a $250 upcharge.
• It's Secretlab's flagship chair, and does come with all the upgrades.

Secretlab products are not known for being affordable, with the mainline TITAN Evo (2022) starting at $549. Sure, there are some smaller or "lite" versions now, but the best-seller sets the bar. In comparison, the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition starts from $799 at Secretlab, a $250 upcharge over the chair with which it shares a core.

That price isn't just getting you the new Secretlab NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette fabric and NanoFoam Composite cushioning, though. Secretlab also includes its Memory Foam head pillow and magnetically attached armrest tops in the box, with the latter usually being an optional add-on. For the most part, though, the TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is extremely similar to the non-NanoGen version, so that premium can feel a little steep.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is available in both black and white colorways; you'll miss out on all the variants and signature editions available to the standard TITAN Evo, but the NanoGen Edition does support all the same Secretlab SKINS.

In the box, you'll find the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition chair, split into 11 pieces, and the Memory Foam Head Pillow. You'll also find a collection of tools and screws to assemble the chair. The NanoGen Edition is covered by Secretlab's standard 3-year warranty, with an extended 5-year warranty available for free by following the steps at Secretlab.co.

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TITAN Evo NanoGen: The good

• The NanoGen Edition has everything great about the regular TITAN Evo.
• The new "NanoGen" materials actually do make a difference, though.
• Luxuries like upgraded armrests are also included in the price.

If you know anything about the Secretlab TITAN Evo (2022) — and you can read our review if you need the refresher — then you're off to a great start becoming familiar with the NanoGen Edition. At its core, this chair is identical to the standard best-selling variant, and even comes in two sizes, Regular and XL (at time of writing, the XL variant is up for preorder for $849 at Secretlab).

It's the same bucket-seat design with the same dimensions and all the same adjustibility. The packaging is the same, and so is the assembly process. That setup process does mean tearing your way through more plastic than I like to see, but the instructions are clear and I had little issue assembling the NanoGen Edition entirely by itself. Build quality is also just as excellent as I expect from Secretlab... Or arguably even better with the NanoGen Edition.

That's thanks to the new NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette and NanoFoam Composite. Those are fancy, trademarked words to represent the new proprietary materials Secretlab spent literally tens of thousands of hours researching, developing, and testing. You can read my Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition announcement breakdown for more information on that, I'd like to keep this review more succinct.

To summarize, Secretlab wanted to do the impossible — find a chair that is both soft and firm, comfortable and durable. That may seem contradictory, but Secretlab actually has something here.

I've used several Secretlab chairs and those from competitors, as well, and the NanoGen Edition is easily among the most comfortable. The leatherette is soft to the touch and stays cool to the touch, and even after weeks of use the pure white surface hasn't been marred by any stains or marks (with one exception, I'll get to that below). Secretlab claims its NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette is 14 times more durable than standard pleatherette, is easier to clean, and is also more resistant to the yellowing effects of UV lights.

I can't personally attest to those latter claims, but I've seen absolutely nothing to cause me concern so far. The new NanoFoam Composite, which basically combines multiple layers of specialized foam with incredible precision, is also a noticeable improvement over the standard TITAN Evo. It's the perfect blend between comfort and support, and melds to my body without ever losing its shape. It's an impressive balance to strike.

Elsewhere, we're back to the similarities. The NanoGen Edition boasts the same 4-way L-ADAPT lumbar support system as the regular TITAN Evo, which lets you adjust the lumbar support up, down, out, and in. It's still not the best lumbar support you'll find in a chair, but it works well and that flexibility makes a huge difference. You're also looking at the same height, tilt, and recline adjustability, with familiar levers to control it all.

The NanoGen Edition's fit and finish does feel slightly better overall, though, and Secretlab is including some extra luxuries. You do get Secretlab's Memory Foam Head Pillow in the box in a matching hue (silver for the white NanoGen Edition), and it magnetically attaches to the head rest. I really like this pillow, and the magnets allow me to adjust it to my needs exactly.

Secretlab's 4D Full-Metal Armrests were already some of my favorites on a chair, but the NanoGen Edition upgrades to the Heavy Duty Edition, which considerably increases how much you can adjust the armrests. Those armrests also support Secretlab's CloudSwap tech, which basically lets you replace or upgrade the armrest cushions in a second. You'll find a set of matching PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Tops in the box, which mirror the pillow in color, fabric, and comfort. All great stuff.

Secretlab Lumbar Pillow Pro

Secretlab also sent me its Lumbar Pillow Pro to test alongside the TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, but I was only able to use that first sample for a few weeks. After the NanoGen Edition dropped, Secretlab learned that the Lumbar Pillow Pro would leave permanent stains on the white leatherette... and sure enough, my chair was stained. Secretlab sent me a replacement backrest and fixed the staining issues with the Lumbar Pillow Pro, though, so I can finally update this section with my final thoughts on this accessory.

This pillow uses Secretlab's PlushCell foam, and it is a very comfortable cushion. It's perfectly sculpted to rest against the lumbar support on the TITAN Evo and designed to enhance that lumbar support, and it does make a difference. I'm not really convinced it's a must-have add-on, though, even if it can feel pretty great on your back. Some may desire much softer lumber support, but the TITAN Evo will do great for most people as it is.

My only complaint is that the Lumbar Pillow Pro doesn't attach to your chair in any way. It's constantly falling over every time I stand up, which quickly grows tiring. I wish Secretlab had built magnets into the Lumbar Pillow Pro and the NanoGen Edition's back — similar to the head rest pillow — to keep the cushion in place. Considering the Secretlab Lumbar Pillow Pro goes for $79 at Secretlab in black or silver, that minor frustration adds up over time.

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TITAN Evo NanoGen: The bad

• The NanoGen Edition is functionally identical to the regular TITAN Evo.
• A $250 upcharge for a handful of upgrades may be a tough pill to swallow.
• I do wish Secretlab had updated the tilt and tension adjustment, too.

While the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition does take everything great about the regular TITAN Evo, it also inherits any weaknesses. There aren't a lot to speak of, honestly, but one nitpick is that the tilt and tilt tension adjustability feels finnicky, unreliable, and restrictive. You get a knob on the right side that allows you to unlock and lock the tilt of your chair at different angles, but it's an exercise in frustration finding the sweet point.

It's difficult to fully articulate exactly what the issue is here, but this singular lever is not intuitive in the slightest, and seemingly suffers from some reliability issues if Reddit is to believed. You may struggle to unlock the tilt, you'll have limited to no ability to actually adjust the tension of that tilt, and you may find it mysteriously difficult to relock the tilt in your preferred position. There's a trick to resetting the tilt by reclining the backrest and pushing back as you unlock the tilt before leaning forward, but even that feels hit or miss.

Aside from that, though, the NanoGen Edition's only real weakness is its price. The TITAN Evo already isn't an affordable chair, although it's honestly not that abnormal in the market, but the NanoGen Edition spikes that price up to a shocking degree despite only implementing a handful of upgrades. Is this chair more premium and more comfortable than its non-NanoGen Edition compatriot? Undoubtedly, but whether that's worth an additional $200-250 is a tougher question to answer.

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TITAN Evo NanoGen: Also consider

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TITAN Evo NanoGen: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You're looking to upgrade your aging Secretlab chair

If you have an older generation Secretlab TITAN chair and it's beginning to show its age, the NanoGen Edition is the "next-gen" upgrade you may have been waiting for. The new materials combined with all the refinements Secretlab made with the 2022 generation make this an excellent upgrade.

✅You want the best in terms of overall quality and comfort

You have to pay a lot for the best, but you are getting the best. The NanoGen Edition promises to last longer without wearing or tearing, and out of the box it's one of the most comfortable and supportive bucket-seat style gaming and office chairs you're going to find.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You'd rather save some money and opt for the regular TITAN Evo

The regular Secretlab TITAN Evo is still available and is frankly the smarter purchase for most people. At over $200 less, the TITAN Evo still gives you 90% of the comfort and durability and 99% of the features. There's a reason it's one of the best-selling premium chairs of all time.

Did Secretlab truly revolutionize chairs forever? Have the material sciences been turned on their head in light of the physics-defying NanoGen and NanoFoam innovations? Well, no, it's not quite that dramatic. What is true is that Secretlab has made one of the most trusted gaming and office chairs more durable, more comfortable, and more supportive simply with new materials, and it does make a difference.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is the best chair Secretlab has ever made, and that immediately makes it one of the very best chairs that you can buy. Marketing blurbs aside, "NanoGen" does feel like a true upgrade, although whether that upgrade will be worth an additional $200-250 really depends on how much you're looking to invest in your back health. For most, the regular Secretlab TITAN Evo (2022) is still available in a wide range of designs, and it's still the most attractive overall option. For those that want the absolute greatest, the NanoGen Edition is here.

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is now available in both black and white colorways from $799 at Secretlab, with an XL version on the way for those who need a little more.

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Razer has had a busy week at CES. The company expanded its RGB ecosystem, unveiled PC Remote Play, and showed off a dock for gaming handhelds. You can add another item to the list, the Razer Iskur V2 X. The newly announced gaming chair comes at a much lower price point than the Razer Iskur V2 ($649.99) but carries some of the same design elements and features.

Razer first introduced the Iskur gaming chair in 2020. The company has since launched the Iskur V2 and several other chairs, many of which have earned positive reviews. The Iskur V2 X brings many elements of the premium Iskur V2 to a more affordable price bracket, though there are some tradeoffs to get a chair for less than half the price of its sibling.

The Iskur V2 X keeps the general look of the chair lineup and features the same ability to recline 152° like its more expensive sibling. The weight limit of the new chair, 136 kg (299 lbs) is also the same as the Iskur V2. After that is where the spec sheets start to differ. The Iskur V2 X has 2D arm rests rather than 4D, uses a butterfly mechanism, and is made with multi-layered fabric rather than synthetic leather. The Iskur V2 X has lumbar support, but it works a bit differently than what's seen on the Iskur V2. The new chair is also only available in black, and its head cushion is sold separately.

Those sacrifices pay off in the price department, however, since the Razer Iskur V2 X is much more affordable at $299.99 than its premium sibling. You can preorder the Razer Iskur V2 X now through Razer's website. When I added the chair to my cart, the site showed an estimated shipping date between January 17, 2025 and January 21, 2025.

Note that the Iskur V2 X and Iskur V2 appear on the same product page. If you change the configuration of the Iskur V2 X to an option that's only available on the Iskur V2, such as picking a color other than black, the page will switch to the Iskur V2 automatically.

Over the last six years, I've tested dozens of gaming chairs, including several designed by AndaSeat.

While each model is different, many of AndaSeat's models make up my top list of favorite gaming chairs on the market today. So, when the company reached out and asked if I'd check out their first foray into mesh office chairs, I was immediately interested.

I have spent the last two weeks using the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh Office Gaming Chair for work and PC gaming. While it does have some really good qualities, it has two major problems that prevent me from putting it anywhere near my list of favorite office chairs.

• AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh at AndaSeat for $449.99

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Price and availability

AndaSeat is a company that uses quality materials and durable frameworks for its office chairs and gaming chairs. As such, this company's products have a higher price point than budget seats on the market. The tradeoff is that they tend to last longer than cheaper options.

The X-Air Pro has an MSRP of $449.00. There are definitely less expensive competitor options to choose from, ranging between $200 to $300, but this chair does have more features and controls than some competitors. For instance, it has adjustable armrests and an adjustable cushion in addition to the usual reclining and height adjustment options.

As noted in the specs, this chair is designed for people between four-foot-eleven-inches tall and six-foot-two-inches tall. The maximum weight it is designed to carry is 265 pounds. If you are above or below these recommendations, then the chair may not provide the kind of support your body needs.

It can be purchased directly from the AndaSeat website. Some AndaSeat chairs also eventually get listed on Amazon, but at the time of writing the X-Air Pro was not there.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh Office Chair — What's in the box?

As with all AndaSeat chairs, the X-Air Pro comes unassembled in a large box. You'll find screws, a screwdriver, and illustrated instructions inside to help you get everything put together.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: What I like

I sprained my ankle a few weeks back and have not been able to put a ton of weight on it. Because of this, I wasn't sure if I would be able to assemble the X-Air Pro on my own, but I was able to make it work by putting all of the parts on the ground and assembling it while sitting. All in all, the process was pretty easy and took less than an hour.

As I previously mentioned, the X-Air Pro comes with an illustrated assembly guide and all of the tools you need to assemble it. The thing is, my chair came with the manual for the base X-Air, not the X-Air Pro. As such, some of the parts it showed were incorrect, and a few steps were left out entirely. I'm not sure if this is a random accident or something to expect for all X-Air Pro purchases. However, I did find AndaSeat's official X-Air Pro Mesh Chair Assembly Guide online. So you can always use that.

Design-wise, the front of the chair gives off a very different vibe from the back; it's sort of like a mullet in that respect. When front-facing, the X-Air Pro looks pretty professional and simplistic, but when you turn it around, the plastic design on the back stands out in strong contrast to the rest of the chair. It even puts me in mind of a Gundam or mech. As such, it feels out of place in a formal office, but it might be a good fit for a gaming den.

The knitted and flannel mesh fabric that wraps tightly around the chair frame isn't necessarily soft to the touch, but it provides a springy sitting experience that is comfortable on my thighs and back. I do wonder if this material will stretch out and sag over time, but that's something you deal with on all mesh chairs. What I can tell you right now is that this mesh design looks and feels durable, and so if there are sagging issues, my guess is that will only be after years of use.

Lumbar support and adjustments

Due to the way that the rounded "C-shaped dynamic lumbar" presses gently into my back, my body sits upright and a bit more forward on the seat cushion. Because of this, my head and neck can only reach the headrest if I specifically lay back on the chair, regardless of what angle I pivot the headrest to. This is good and bad. The headrest doesn't get in the way as it does with some chairs, but you also can't reach it as easily as with some chairs.

Easily accessible on the sides of the chair are controls that stick out from underneath. On my left is a button that allows me to adjust how far vertically the cushion is from the back of the chair. Meanwhile, a recline button and a height button are located on my right. The X-Air Pro can be as low as 17.72 inches from the floor or as high as 21.66 inches. The armrests can also be adjusted up and down, but their controls aren't as good as the cushion height adjuster (more on that later).

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: What I do not like

I'm a big fan of AndaSeat's Kaiser gaming chairs, but this first foray into mesh office chairs is definitely in need of improvement. While the mesh cushion and backing itself are comfortable, the non-locking armrests and adjustment options make this a rather awkward and even frustrating chair to use for long stretches.

The top part of the 5D armrests rotate 360 degrees, while the section below that rotates 180 degrees. This would be a very helpful way to get the exact positioning I want if it wasn't for the fact these rotating areas don't lock. Because of this, I often found myself leaning on an armrest only for it to spin out and away from me, making me fumble. As you can imagine, this results in unstable support areas on either side of the chair.

During the holiday break, my mother-in-law sat on this chair and told me that she was concerned that she could hurt herself while getting out of it because of how easily the armrests move. It might even be a hazard for people who have difficulty walking and rely on supportive armrests to get up or sit down.

Height adjustment is another aspect of the chair that negatively affects its overall score. Both the backing and the armrests can be adjusted vertically. However, the way they do it is very inconvenient and frustrating. I simply have to pull up to extend these parts to various notch areas, but when they hit the highest extension point, they drop back down to their lowest height. Because of this, it's very hard to get the armrests at the same height as each other or to reach the top height of all three areas without having them sink all the way down again.

Due to these height extension issues, I don't recommend this chair to tall people. It really feels like the X-Ari Pro was not designed by people who are actually using the chair in its highest settings.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Competition

As I said before, I've tested a bunch of seats over the years, so I can easily recommend the best gaming chairs and office chairs.

To start things off, my number one favorite option can be seen in my AndaSeat Kaiser 4 review. The reason I recommend this chair so much is that it allows me to get the perfect lumbar support for my specific needs. It does this via an internal four-way adjustable lumbar system that lets me customize the height and amount of pressure that the chair presses into my back. It's also made of fantastic materials with your choice of either faux leather or fabric. The Kaiser 4 sells for $569.00 at AndaSeat and is available in several different colors.

Another great chair can be seen in our Razer Iskur review. Razer gives this seat a cool snake-scale design on the cushion and backing while providing a very comfortable sitting experience. It has adjustable 4D armrests, fabric foam cushions, and a sleek design. You can buy it for $599.99 at Amazon.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• You want an office chair made with quality mesh materials.
• You're looking for something that is relatively easy to assemble.

❌ You should not buy this if...

• You'd prefer an office chair with a more understated design
• You regularly put weight on armrests and need something that will remain stable

This mesh office chair offers decent back support and cushioning, but it has so many frustrating aspects to it that I have a hard time recommending it. In fact, I couldn't wait to stop testing it and get back to my favorite AndaSeat Kaiser 4 gaming chair.

I might be willing to recommend a future iteration of this chair if AndaSeat first changes the armrest design so that it locks instead of easily spinning at a slight touch. And second, improves how height adjustment works. As it is, though, I think you're far better off going with one of the company's faux leather gaming chairs. They look good in both office and casual settings, and they offer great support.

• AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh at AndaSeat for $649.99

This review is one of the most challenging articles I've written recently. Not because the Razer Freyja is bad; in fact, it's far from it. Still, when you've been in this industry as long as I have, every new product usually offers a familiar experience or looks like something similar. That's simply not the case here. The idea of full-body haptic feedback in gaming isn't totally new, but to this point, it has been largely targeted at the virtual reality (VR) market.

Razer's Freyja isn't a vest, and you don't have to strap into a VR headset to use it — it's haptics for everyone. Designed as an ancillary product for your current gaming or office chair, Razer made it as compatible as possible with your entire game library. Some may see it as a gimmick, and I get that, but I don't think it is. Rumble motors have been featured in standard controllers for such a long time that I'm actually a little surprised it took so long to step up to this kind of full-body immersion.

As such, this isn't a traditional review that you might find on Windows Central. It can't be. When I'm testing a laptop, keyboard, monitor, or basically anything else my team covers, there are always comparisons to make against competitors. Always hard specs and performance details. Reviews always contain an element of opinion and subjectivity, but in this case, I have to try and convey just how good this thing is without being able to actually show how good it is.

It is good, though. Seriously good. I went into this interested, even excited by the tech, but having experienced it, I'm certainly convinced it has a place in the world. If its $300 price tag doesn't put you off, I think you're going to love the Razer Freyja.

• LIVE: The best Razer deals this Black Friday

What is the Razer Freyja?

It's actually quite difficult to describe what the Razer Freyja is. If I only said, "It's a vibrating seat cushion that connects to your PC," it would be selling it way too short. However, as a 'thing', that's exactly what it is. Rather than selling a full gaming chair with the haptics built-in, Razer is letting all of us sample its greatness with our existing furniture.

It's more than just vibrations, of course. Sensa HD is a sophisticated directional haptic engine that translates sensory information from your games into something you can feel. It's also very comfortable. As just an upgrade to my existing gaming chair, I'm extremely pleased with it.

The cushions are soft yet supportive, and it's fair to say it's breathed new life into the chair that has been supporting my back and my derriere for some years now. The haptics aren't in every piece of the Freyja, though, as Razer decided that having six zones was enough to deliver a good experience while also ensuring that it meets regulations and just doesn't get too overbearing.

There are some logistics to navigate, as you might imagine. It needs power, and it needs to be connected to your PC. This isn't Razer's first rodeo, though, so the power cable provided is of ample length. Connecting to your PC only needs the included dongle, or you can opt for Bluetooth if you'd prefer. The setup process is minimal, though.

Sensa HD is handled through the Razer Chroma app, which may sound strange, but Razer's trying to split up its apps in a way that makes sense. Synapse is going to be more for traditional Razer hardware customization, while Chroma will be where the more experiential features, like Sensa HD, will be handled.

You do have basic controls on the Freyja, too, that allow you to increase or decrease the intensity of the vibrations and enable Bluetooth mode. Most of the customization happens in the app, and this is where you'll be able to tune the output to your liking. I keep it on the balanced setting and have been very happy, but if you want a more intense output for lower frequencies, then it's something you can fine-tune.

Game support for the Razer Freyja

Out of the gate, there are a limited number of titles that have been fully updated with dedicated support for Razer's haptics. The toolkit is available to add support at a developer's discretion, and to the untrained eye, it seems like a simple process. In these games, you'll get the absolute best experience.

Take Snowrunner, for example (which is also available on Xbox Game Pass). Having full support for the haptics means you're able to feel every movement, every vibration, from the vehicle as it plods along across the terrain. It's about as close as you can get to the realistic feel without going outside and getting cold.

Indeed, when learning about the Freyja, my first thought went to sim racing. I could imagine a world where iRacing builds support for this, feeling the road through my body as well as my hands, the vibrations of the thoroughbred racing machines coursing through me at every turn. iRacing, to this day, remains about the closest thing you can get to real-world racing, and full support for the Razer Frejya would take it ever closer to reality.

Other games included in the initial batch are varied. Frostpunk 2, for example, Hogwarts Legacy, Once Human, Final Fantasy 16, and the hot new open-world ticket STALKER 2.

Still, to make sure that the widest support for your existing game library exists, Razer also uses in-game audio to translate into haptic feedback. This isn't quite as accurate, of course, but it's still pretty amazing. Razer is doing some of the work here by releasing specially tailored profiles to maximize the experience, but in theory, any game with sufficient audio will also work.

Mostly, it'll pull the actual game audio versus reacting to background music. So, in Forza Horizon 5, for example, the vibrations are triggered more by the noise of the car, the impacts with the terrain, the inevitable tire squeal, and not so much the tunes you're listening to as you drive.

System volume also has an effect since, ultimately, it's using the system audio output. Forza Horizon 5 is also one of the titles Razer is building a tailored profile for, so it'll only get better. For how it is right now, well, it's good. As with any game that you first play sat in the Freyja, it's a little unusual at first and takes a little getting used to, but there's no denying it makes playing games more immersive and entertaining, and dare I say, more fun.

It's hard to put into words just what it feels like. But I feel like it's one of those game-changing products. Whether it ultimately grows to be something more commonplace, only time will tell, but it really is one of those experiences that's hard to give up once you've tried it. I don't necessarily recommend it for competitive games, like Black Ops 6 multiplayer, but the campaign in the same game has been excellent. Feeling the rumble of grenades and explosions, it's superb.

It also makes controller rumble packs feel like ancient technology. I do think that the audio-based haptics are more pleasing overall, though. They seem to respond more often than in a game like Snowrunner, where full Sensa HD support has been coded into the game. But this is something that can certainly improve over time.

Should you buy it?

This is one of those questions everyone will have. My snap response would be yes. If it interests you and you have the budget (because it's a fairly significant investment at $300), then I would easily recommend you give it a try.

It's hard to think of another piece of hardware that has truly changed the experience of gaming in the same way in recent memory. It adds a level of immersion to gaming that doesn't require wearing a headset and associated other wearable technology, and it does it in comfort.

Because when you're done gaming, the Freyja is really comfortable. It's an absolute joy to sit in all day while working, and while it's impossible to comment on its durability in the long term, it certainly feels like it's been built to stay the course. Gamers spend a lot of time sitting down, and Razer's unlikely to have ignored this when building the Freyja!

If you're going to spend big bucks on anything as an adult, you should prioritize your bed and your office chair first. These are investments that can massively improve your quality-of-life and comfort in the long-term, but getting the best of either can be costly. That's especially true when you step into the realm of the luxurious with a company like X-Chair, which makes a range of products for the office — but focuses on premium ergonomic mesh chairs with best-in-class back support.

Right now and in celebration of Black Friday (and Cyber Monday beyond), you can cut 25% off the price of everything at X-Chair, making it easier to invest in an office or gaming setup that's easier on your back, eyes, and wallet. Yes, that includes the flagship X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair I've used, which is $475 off at X-Chair for a limited time. As someone who sits in a chair for much of their day, I can tell you with 100% honesty that a good chair is worth paying more for.

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Blessing my spine with support... And cooling, heating, and massaging

I used a Secretlab TITAN Evo as my primary office and gaming chair for years, but there's a different category of comfy places to sit known as ergonomic mesh chairs. These chairs are popular for their flexible back support and breathable designs, but the best are unbelievably pricey. Among those, X-Chair is one of the most reliable and reputable sources.

I reviewed the X-Chair X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair and, after getting over the shock of its ridiculous price, appreciated its immaculate fit and form all perfectly tailored toward ensuring even a 12-hour shift isn't a pain in your... Well, you know. Having a built-in cooling, heating, and massaging unit that actually made a difference was simply the cherry on top.

To be frank, though, this chair would be out of my price range regardless of my desire to invest in an excellent, high-quality chair that could last me a decade or more. X-Chair is a luxury brand, but all of its products are assuredly premium to match that price tag. Right now, though, it's a whole lot more affordable to treat yourself to a new ergonomic mesh chair, standing desk, filing cabinet, or a variety of desk and chair accessories.

X-Chair makes a little bit of everything when it comes to furnishing your office or PC gaming room, and right now you can save 25% on everything at X-Chair thanks to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Sure, Secretlab is also running a storewide Black Friday sale, but X-Chair's products are going to appeal to those who want something more professional; if you've been on the fence, now's the time to invest in yourself.

For the gamers, X-Chair's sub-brand is also cutting 20% off everything at Mavix, where you can find gaming-oriented versions of all X-Chair's best products. At the very least, it's worth perusing the X-Chair catalog and seeing what catches your eye — whatever you land on, it's likely a product worthy of its retail price, let alone when discounted.

Early Black Friday deals are here, making it the perfect time to pick up a gaming chair. Secretlab has a big collection of deals right now, but it's a tiny chair at a smaller-than-normal price that caught my eye. Right now, you can grab a Secretlab Titan XXS for $255. That's savings of $64 on the best gaming chair for kids. The Titan XXS is a 1:2 scale model of Secretlab's normal-sized Titan gaming chair, and reviewing it was some of the most fun I've had at work in my 10 years of journalism.

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Best gaming chair for kids

When you review items like the best gaming chairs, there are a lot of things to go through. You want to make sure that you run an item through its paces, including ease of assembly, comfort, adjustability, and durability. But sometimes you forget you're reviewing something and just have fun. That was the case when I wrote my Secretlab Titan XXS review. I had an absolute blast trying to get my dogs to sit or lay on the chair and then had to circle back to cover the finer details of the gaming chair.

Luckily for those interested in a gaming chair for children, the Secretlab Titan XXS checks the boxes. It's a 1:2 scale model of Secretlab's other Titan chairs, which means it has the premium build quality and customization of its bigger siblings. When I first found out I would review the Titan XXS, I thought it may feel like more of a toy. After all, the chair started as an April Fools' Day joke and much of its early marketing material centered around dogs laying in the seat. I was pleasantly surprised to find a premium gaming chair that just happened to be small.

Since I don't have any kids, I gave the chair to a friend of mine to get their thoughts. They game with their child regularly and their kid was thrilled to have a "real" gaming chair. "It's good. It's really really comfy. I like spinning around on it," said my friend's kid who was six years old at the time. I've since followed up with my friend and only heard positive feedback about the Titan XXS.

The only real negative of the Secretlab XXS is that I don't think it became very popular. That's a guess based on the fact that Secretlab has never announced a new version of the chair and only the Plush Pink version is in stock. Originally, the price was also a negative, but the current discount on the Secretlab XXS helps fix that.

If you need a larger gaming chair, Secretlab's Black Friday sale is already underway. You can save up to $303 on certain bundles and there are deals on gaming chairs, smart desks, and accessories.

You may not be familiar with the name, but there's almost no chance you haven't seen the logo. Secretlab chairs can be found in more Twitch streams, YouTube videos, and other professional setups than you could count, and there's a reason they're so popular. Secretlab arguably makes the best premium gaming chairs in the business, and it also dabbles in all the other products you need to make your dream office or PC gaming setup come true.

Secretlab products are an investment, though, so it always helps when you can save some cash. Even with Black Friday's end, you can save up to $303 at Secretlab on the entire catalog, which includes gaming chairs, smart desks, monitor arm mounts, and much more. Those wanting to bless their spin, level up their cable management, or simply get a taste of luxury would be doing themselves a favor by checking this sale out.

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• Samsung: Week-long holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more

Everything you need for the ultimate office or PC gaming setup

Many people may think of laptops, TVs, gaming accessories, kitchen appliances, and more when it comes to major Black Friday sales, but this is also a great time of year to upgrade your office or PC gaming setup. That's because Secretlab makes basically everything you need for a top-notch setup, and right now the company is running a storewide sale on almost everything it sells.

You can save up to $303 at Secretlab right now, and that includes up to $100 off Secretlab's legendary TITAN evo gaming chairs, up to $139 off Secretlab's premium all-metal MAGNUS Pro smart desk, up to 30% off skins to dress up your Secretlab chair however you want, and up to 38% off a wide variety of accessories for it all, including Memory Foam arm rests, lumbar pillows, recliner add-ons, monitor mount arms, cable management tools, and more.

It doesn't feel like there's much at Secretlab that you can't save on at the moment, and the entire store is also getting guaranteed free shipping for the duration of the Black Friday sales event. I used a Secretlab gaming chair for years and can attest to its quality, and Windows Central has praised multiple Secretlab products in the past in our in-depth reviews. I can't recommend Secretlab enough, as the company is well-known for its commitment to quality.

If you're wondering what Secretlab has been up to recently, it just announced the new flagship in its chair lineup. The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition combines the best of everything Secretlab has to offer with brand-new "next-gen" materials, and it does look pretty impressive. That particular chair isn't being discounted during this sale, but you can still score free shipping if you preorder it. There are also new Secretlab SKINS featuring franchises like Arcane, World of Warcraft, and Dragonball. SKINS are form-fitting cosmetic makeovers for your Secretlab chair, and there's a pretty large assortment of skins from all kinds of franchises.

What you need to know

• Secretlab has offered premium SKINS for its TITAN line of gaming chairs for a couple of years now, including a variety of exclusive special edition collaborations.
• Now, Secretlab owners have a more affordable option to customize their chair with SKINS Lite, with is the same high-quality, form-fitting fabric but without the second layer of cushioning.
• SKINs Lite are already available for multiple existing patterns, but Secretlab has also dropped new options for Arcane, World of Warcraft, and Dragonball.
• You can pick up your new chair skin from $99 starting today, and it only takes a few minutes to install once you get it.

Secretlab gives you a ton of material and design choices when you're designing a TITAN Evo chair of your own, and countless people have pulled the trigger. However, it can be maddening trying to make a single choice when it'll cost you hundreds of dollars, so Secretlab also makes it easy for people to customize their chairs with premium, form-fitting, specially designed skins you can install, remove, or swap as much as you want. Now, it's even more affordable to do so.

The new SKINS Lite family is now available, making it incredibly easy to personalize your Secretlab with a new design from your favorite franchise. These skins are still made of Secretlab's high-quality fabric that's perfectly tailored to its chairs, but they trade that extra layer of cushioning for a more approachable price tag. You can buy your own SKINS Lite for $99 at Secretlab, and they're available both in a number of existing SKINS designs and new options from the Arcane, World of Warcraft, and Dragonball universes.

And those new skins look nice.

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Whatever your favorite fictional universe, Secretlab may already have something for you

A previous member of the Windows Central team did go hands-on with Secretlab's SKINS when they launched in 2022, and even then he was impressed by the quality and easy installation process... and slightly taken aback by the premium price tag.

Secretlab has released exclusive and limited-edition SKINS over the last couple of years ranging from $139-199 from Secretlab's own design catalog and collaborations with franchises like Fortnite, DC, Star Wars, Naruto, Cyberpunk 2077, League of Legends, and more. These SKINS are expensive as they are because they use Secretlab's proprietary SoftWeave fabric with a built-in cushioning layer — so you customize your chair and make it more comfortable at the same time.

The new SKINS Lite lineup achieves the exact same tight-fitting design, 360-degrees protection, and straightforward installation, but uses a new, lighter and stretchier fabric to achieve its lower starting price of $99. Those who value luxury can still spend more for SKINS SoftWeave, but those that simply want their chair to look awesome can save themselves some cash.

With SKINS Lite, Secretlab has debuted six brand-new designs that are, at least for now, exclusive to the SKINS Lite family. That includes designs for Jinx and Vi from Arcane (Ekko is a normal SKINS design), The Lich King and Illidan Stormrage from World of Warcraft, and Goku and Vegeta from Dragonball. However, Secretlab has also released new SKINS Lite variants of existing designs, including three for Cyberpunk 2077, three from Harry Potter, and one from Star Wars.

Like with the original SKINS, the entirety of the new SKINS Lite line works perfectly with the Secretlab TITAN Evo, TITAN Evo XL, and TITAN Evo Lite gaming chairs, plus all the various TITAN Evo accessories and add-ons. Oh, and they're also fully compatible with the brand-new Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition that was just announced as the new peak of Secretlab's lineup. Considering that hyper-premium chair is only available in demure black or white, there's every reason to add your favorite Secretlab SKINS design to your cart when checking out.

The original, more expensive SKINS never stopped being available, but those looking to give our wallets some breathing room can now go and pick out our own Secretlab SKINS Lite for $99 at Secretlab, with deliveries expected around Nov. 25, 2024 for the first batch.

What you need to know

• Secretlab makes some of the most popular and critically acclaimed gaming chairs with its TITAN Evo series, and announced the latest iteration today with the NanoGen Edition, combining two "next-gen" materials developed in-house.
• The NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette, for example, uses three unique layers and a proprietary manufacturing process to massively increase durability and long-term resilience over normal PU leather, but without sacrificing comfort.
• The NanoFoam Composite balances support and softness with dual layers that are refined down to the milimeter across the chair.
• Secretlab's new NanoGen Edition chair represents a new peak for the series, and is available now from $799 at Secretlab in both black and white.

When it comes to the world of gaming chairs, few brands have found as much success as Secretlab. The company has established quite a reputation with its TITAN Evo family of chairs, which are very commonly regarded as some of the absolute best you can buy. Now, Secretlab is launching a "next-gen" version of its legendary gaming chair that aims to prove that it's still the best. The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition has arrived.

This gaming chair appears quite similar to the existing TITAN Evo you can already go and buy, but there are three notable upgrades that settle this chair at the top of Secretlab's lineup. First is the introduction of an all-new armrest with greater adjustability than ever, with Secretlab's comfy Memory Foam armrest now being standard. Of course, the headlining upgrades here are what contribute to that "NanoGen" name, and that's two unique materials designed in-house at Secretlab.

I'll go into more detail below, but the quick-and-easy summary is that Secretlab has developed a brand-new hybrid leatherette and hybrid cushion foam to improve the long-term durability, resilience, and support of the TITAN Evo — while also being the softest and most comfortable the company has ever released. If you're interested, you can check out the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition from $799 at Secretlab starting today, and it's available in black and white.

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On the cutting edge of material science

I owned and loved a Secretlab TITAN Evo for years before eventually replacing it with the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair I reviewed, and I still miss the design of that chair. Now I'm tempted to return again, if only to see if Secretlab has really made a noticeable impact with its two new materials that justify the NanoGen Edition's premium pricing.

First, there's the Secretlab NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette. Secretlab claims this is the softest leatherette it has ever put on its chairs, yet is also somehow more durable than ever — up to 14-times more resilient than industry standard PU leather. This is made possible through a triple-layer manufacturing process comprised of a strong, flexible base layer made of 3D-reinforced polyester fibers supported by woven nanofibers, Secretlab's NEO Hybrid Leatherette intertwined with specialty nanofibers to increase comfort and stain resistance, and a final dye coating that individually bonds to the nanofibers to preserve color and enhance UV resistance.

It sounds complicated because it is, but the end goal for Secretlab is a premium leatherette that's free of animal products, is more resistant to stains, UV light (which causes yellowing over time), and standard wear and tear versus standard leatherette, and is softer to the touch than Secretlab's previous offerings.

There's also the Secretlab NanoFoam Composite, which Secretlab describes as its "softest and most supportive foam yet." Again, this is made possible with a proprietary triple-layer manufacturing process combining a new, soft microfoam top layer with Secretlab's familiar firm cold foam cushion and an in-house nano adhesive that tightly bonds the two layers without give and without affecting comfort or support. Secretlab also created a biomechanical model of the human body to track stress points, refining the thickness of each cushion layer down to the milimeter to maximize comfort or support where needed.

Again, it sounds complicated because it is. Secretlab claims it invested over 37,500 hours into research and development, spent over 70,000 hours in testing, and created 1,116 prototypes during that timeframe. The NanoGen Edition takes advantage of all the advancements of previous TITAN Evo chairs, including the 4-Way L-ADAPT lumbar support system, but takes durability and comfort to a new level.

Being the new flagship for the lineup, the NanoGen Edition also comes with some perks. The popular Full-Metal 4D Armrest has been upgraded with a new "Heavy Duty Edition" that offers 50% increased adjustment rates than before, and Secretlab's newer PlushCell Memory Foam Armrest Tops now come standard, complete with the proprietary, magnetic "CloudSwap" system that lets you switch the armrest cushions out for new ones.

The NanoGen Edition should also be fully compatible with Secretlab's various other accessories, like the Recliner Add-on or Lumbar Pillow.

I can't say just how much the "NanoGen" materials make a difference as I haven't actually tried the chair, but Secretlab is at least making some bold promises... as it should when this chair costs so much. No waiting is necessary, though, as the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is available starting today from $799 at Secretlab, and is available in both black and white colorways. Well, it's available in most regions where Secretlab operates — the UK will have to wait until early 2025.

What you need to know

• Razer showed off a concept device in January 2024 that would let users add haptic feedback to their favorite gaming chairs to create more immersion.
• Typically, Razer never releases these products to the public, but this is the first time it has done so.
• The cushion has six advanced haptic motor actuators (Sensa HD) that let gamers feel “direction, distance, and intensity” as well as explosions and more.
• Razer Freyja will also work with movies and music and is now available for $299.99.

Razer is well known for showing off wild concept devices at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) over the years, including a laptop with three displays, a concept gaming desk, and more.

Today, at RazerCon 2024, the company revealed that, for the first time, it is bringing one of those to market: its haptic feedback gaming cushion dubbed Razer Freyja (although technically, its pandemic-era face mask went from concept to release, it was never at CES).

Moreover, you can buy the new Razer Freyja starting today for $299.99 at Razer.

Called initially Project Esther and shown off at CES 2024 (we gave it a ‘best innovation’ award), the high-end gaming accessory's new Freyja name is apparently a nod to Old Norse mythology.

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What does Razer Freyja do, exactly?

Conceptually, the Razer Freyja cushion is simple. You place it on your favorite gaming or office chair—it doesn’t matter which brand (although Razer would prefer you use theirs like the Iskur v2)—plug it into your PC, and let her rip. The chair reacts to audio signals in games, movies, and music with six advanced Sensa HD haptic motor actuators (4 in the back, 2 on the bottom). Or, as Razer explains in its press release:

“… Razer Freyja introduces a groundbreaking level of gaming immersion as the world's first HD Haptic gaming cushion. This innovative device brings dynamic tactile sensations to life, transforming every gaming session. From intense explosions of battlefields to the subtle vibrations of a heartbeat racing during a stealth mission, the Razer Freyja allows gamers to experience a full range of sensory feedback.

Feel the direction, distance, and intensity of in-game actions through multi-directional haptics powered by six advanced haptic motor actuators. Whether navigating through bullets, steering across racetracks, or experiencing environmental effects like storms or earthquakes, the Razer Freyja offers a full-body sensory experience that pulls players directly into the heart of the action.

Beyond gaming, the versatility of Razer Freyja extends to enhancing the experience of watching movies or listening to music with immersive haptic feedback.”

As expected, Razer Synapse, which was just overhauled and released as Razer Synapse 4, handles customizing the haptic signals and other options.

For those worried about tripping over the cable and yanking their precious PC off their desk, don’t fret. Razer made the cable a “breakaway” quick release to separate under pressure, saving all their prized hardware.

This cushion is not Razer’s first dance with haptics, either. It's been doing haptics in its high-end gaming headphones in the Kraken line. I’ve used those for years, and along with a rumbling controller, they really add a fun element to the game. Indeed, today at RazerCon, it announced the impressive new Razer Kraken v4 Pro, which looks absolutely killer ($399.99 at Razer).

How much is Razer Freyja, and when is it available?

Although Razer showed off Freyja the week of January 16 as just a concept, the company managed to get into production and started shipping today, September 28.

You can purchase it at Razer.com, RazerStores, and authorized resellers (which means Best Buy and Amazon may soon carry it).

Pricing is not cheap at $299.99 at Razer.com, which is unsurprising considering some high-end hardware Razer releases. Nonetheless, for hardcore gamers who want an immersive experience, Razer Freyja adds a sensational element to the game (or movies).

Speaking of completion, you might as well splurge and get the new Sensa HD-enabled Razer Kraken v4 Pro headphones, so all your vibrations sync up for your body and head. They’re now available for an eye-watering $399.99, and for the first time, they include an OLED Control Hub (hence the high price).

Is Razer Freyja any good and worth $299?

Besides being a concept at CES 2024, it was also a working demo for the media. I was fortunate enough to give it a go, and besides just feeling nice (who doesn’t like back vibrations?), it did add some depth to the games you’re playing. Accuracy was impressive as Razer demonstrated how slashing with a chainsaw, the haptics would travel from my top right shoulder area down through my left side, and it all worked flawlessly.

Perhaps that’s the message here. This isn’t just a cushion with six haptic engines that vibrate simultaneously whenever action is on the screen, but a sophisticated and precise system capable of extreme detail. For example, it was raining in one game, and I could feel the subtle pitter-patter of rain on my back, which was wild.

Of course, that was a short demo. The good news is that we just received a Razer Freyja review sample so you can expect our full review very soon. We’ll let you know if this is a gimmick, but we like what we feel so far.

Whether you game at your desk, get work done while seated, or both, you deserve a good gaming chair. AndaSeat has plenty to choose from, and none is better than the AndaSeat Kaiser 4. The chair earned a perfect score in our recent review and is currently on sale for $539. That's $110 off its normal retail price, thanks to AndaSeat's mid-year sale.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 review highlights

Our Rebecca Spear just reviewed the AndaSeat Kaiser 4. The chair earned a perfect 5/5 score for its durable materials, adjustable lumbar support, and 5D armrests. The chair's 395 lbs weight capacity and included tools also earned high marks.

The knocks on the Kaiser 4 are its price and the fact that its knobs aren't labeled clearly. The chair retails for $649.99, but at the moment you can grab it for $539. That's still a premium price, but the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 is a premium chair. The Kaiser 4 easily competes with the best gaming chairs on the market, especially when at a discount.

The Kaiser 4's customization options, both cosmetic and functional received high marks from Spear:

"This is one of the most customizable gaming chairs and office chairs on the market right now. Alter the internal lumbar support using the side knobs or pop out the backing to just the right position to match your body shape. It comes in several different colors and is made of either fabric or a faux leather material."

Spear reviews gaming chairs frequently, including several models from AndaSeat. She has a solid track record with the chairs when it comes to durability.

"I've never seen this kind of degradation in an AndaSeat gaming chair," said Spear when comparing AndaSeat's chairs to those from a different brand. "For instance, the Kaiser 3 I've been using (up until receiving the Kaiser 4) still looks brand new despite having been sat on for an average of over 50 hours every week for two years. The Kaiser 4 has the same reliable build with a steel framework and an aluminum five-star wheelbase that's covered in high-density foam, and you can choose either soft PVC leather or linen fabric."

The Kaiser 4 has adjustable lumbar support to help you sit with proper posture. "I'll be honest: I wasn't expecting to like this pop-out function all that much as it seemed like a superfluous addition, but I was wrong," said Spear of the feature.

"This pop-out back padding helps me sit up straighter and provides the perfect amount of additional support that my body needs. It's extremely comfortable and makes it so I don't have to deal with a shifting back pillow, like is often the case with many other gaming chairs out there."

Overall, the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 is an impressive chair. While it has a premium price, it's more affordable thanks to a $110 discount.

Over the years, I've tested dozens of gaming chairs and this has helped me to see that AndaSeat offers some of the very best options on the market. I've been using the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 for the last two years as my main office chair for work, even though I could have easily swapped it out for one of the many others that I've reviewed. But honestly, no computer chair I've tested has even come close to matching the comfort, quality, and durability of the Kaiser 3, which is why I've continued to use it. It's honestly a pinnacle of perfection that helps me sit up straighter and feel more comfortable while working at a computer for long stretches. There's a reason why I've listed it as one of the best desktop PC accessories. 

So, when AndaSeat announced the Kaiser 4, I was unsure how the company could build upon its predecessor, but it managed to do so by adding a pop-out backing as well as additional armrest adjustments. After spending a few weeks using the Kaiser 4, I can definitely say I'm in love with this chair. It's not only the best gaming chair, but the best office chair of them all.

• AndaSeat Kaiser 4 at AndaSeat for $649.99

AndaSeat Kaiser 4: Price and availability

AndaSeat is a premium gaming chair company that used to produce car seats for BMW and Mercedes. The company brings this same level of quality to its chairs without the uncomfortable bucket seat design. 

The AndaSeat Kaiser 4, specifically, has an MSRP of $649.00 and can only be purchased from the AndaSeat website. At the time of writing, a sale was going on that brought the price down to just $539.00 at AndaSeat. Additionally, the company often has deals throughout the year on its various seats, so you might be able to get this chair at a different discount down the road.

You might be thinking to yourself, $649.00 is a lot for a gaming chair or even a nice office chair, but it's honestly perfectly priced for the features it offers and the durabilty it provides. This chair will last you for years whereas cheaper gaming chairs will need to be replaced as often as once a year or sooner. Additionally, the Kaiser 4 offers far more customization options to get the chair fitting perfectly to your specific body type. 

As such, I recommend the Kaiser 4 as not only the best office chair but also the best computer chair and best gaming chair for anyone who tends to sit at a desk for long stretches each day. Believe me, your back will thank you. 

AndaSeat Kaiser 4: What I like

As with most computer chairs, the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 needs to be assembled before you can use it. Be prepared to have someone help you bring the heavy box into your home as it will be awkward to grab, weighing around 88 pounds. 

Since I got the Kaiser 4 before launch, the manual wasn't ready when I put this chair together, but AndaSeat pointed me to a Kaiser 4 Assembly Guide video on YouTube, and this was easy to follow. That said, AndaSeat has assured me that the Kaiser 4 manual will be included when the chair officially launches. Now, I've always found previous AndaSeat gaming chairs relatively easy to assemble, and this is largely thanks to the included illustrated instructions and set of tools that come in the box, so I'm sure the Kaiser 4 manual will be similarly useful. 

As it was, I didn't need to provide any additional tools, as a hex key (Allen wrench) and the various screws I needed came in the box. All in all, it took me about 45 minutes to get the Kaiser 4 put together. I did it on my own, but you might find things go a little more smoothly if you have someone helping you to steady the parts while you screw them in place. 

Quality materials that are built to last

Like I've previously said, I've reviewed dozens of gaming chairs throughout the course of my career. This has helped me see that many of the most popular (and cheap) options on the market are often uncomfortable and not built to last. Just the other day, I was helping my friend move and was shocked to see his gaming chair (from a company I don't recommend at all) had fallen to pieces. In the year that he had owned it, the cheap leather covering had flaked off, and the seat cushion seams had come undone, revealing the interior foam and frame. One of the armrests had even broken off. To be clear, my friend is a very tidy and calm person, so it was shocking to learn that the state of the chair had come about simply from normal use. 

I've never seen this kind of degradation in an AndaSeat gaming chair. For instance, the Kaiser 3 I've been using (up until receiving the Kaiser 4) still looks brand new despite having been sat on for an average of over 50 hours every week for two years. The Kaiser 4 has the same reliable build with a steel framework and an aluminum five-star wheelbase that's covered in high-density foam, and you can choose either soft PVC leather or linen fabric. 

There are ten colors to choose from, including everything from your standard black and white to more colorful options like purple, light blue, orange, deep red, and more. Just note that the linen fabric material only comes in black or white, so if you want a more colorful choice, you'll need to go with PVC leather. For most of my life, I've disliked leather furniture, but the material used on AndaSeat chairs is super soft and easy to quickly wipe clean if I accidentally spill food on it.

Adjustable lumbar and armrests to fit your specific body shape

As with many office chairs, there are arms underneath the cushion that allows users to raise and lower the chair or allows them to lock the tilt function. A lever on the right side also allows the chair to recline back between 90 degrees and 135 degrees. It's surprisingly comfortable to lay back in this chair, thanks in part to the soft memory foam head pillow that attaches to the chair magnetically, so you don't have to deal with unsightly straps.

At CES 2024, I met with Dr. Matthew Hwu of 1HP, and he explained to me that many people sit in their computer chairs wrong, causing various aches and pains. He further explained that the most important part of an office chair wasn't lumbar support (like I had guessed) but rather the customization potential of the chair. In other words, in order to get the best sitting experience that doesn't fatigue our bodies, it's best to have a chair that can be adjusted to meet our individual body shapes and usage needs. This is an area that the Kaiser 4 truly excels in. 

So, how exactly does this internal lumbar and pop-out function work? There are octagonal knobs on either side of the Kaiser 4 — rotating one adjusts the height of the internal lumbar while rotating the other adjusts how much pressure the lumbar pushes into my back. With these adjustments, I can get the exact amount of pressure I want to fit perfectly with my spine. 

The knobs have text on them to tell me which way adds more curvature and which way reduces it, but they aren't labeled for depth or height, which would be more useful. It's not the worst thing as I find I have to sit in the chair (where I can't read the knobs) and reach backward and rotate the knobs until it feels the way I want it to, but better labeling could resolve some initial confusion. 

Now for the pop-out function. If you look at the above pictures, you'll notice that a rounded rectangular section on the blue side of the backing stands out from the rest of the chair. This houses the internal lumbar mechanism inside it and pivots out when a lever on the side of the chair is unlocked. To get this pop-out function to work, I had to connect a wire coming out of the back part of the seat to a mechanism on the bottom of the cushion while assembling the Kaiser 4. In order to get it positioned to my liking, I pull on the lever, which releases the back pad, and then I push back against the padding until I get it to a position I like. At this point, putting the lever back in the locked position keeps the back padding at that location. 

I'll be honest: I wasn't expecting to like this pop-out function all that much as it seemed like a superfluous addition, but I was wrong. This pop-out back padding helps me sit up straighter and provides the perfect amount of additional support that my body needs. It's extremely comfortable and makes it so I don't have to deal with a shifting back pillow, like is often the case with many other gaming chairs out there. 

Technically, Kaiser 4's official specs claim that this gaming chair is recommended for people who measure between five-foot-eleven inches tall and six-foot-eleven inches tall. That said, I'm personally five-foot-six-inches tall, and my husband is six-foot-five-inches tall. Both of us have found the Kaiser 4 fits us nicely. It can also hold up to 395 pounds, which is more accommodating than many other gaming chairs out there.

The armrests are yet another way that the Kaiser 4 surpasses other office chairs when it comes to adjustments. These are what AndaSeat calls 5D armrests, which means they can be adjusted forward, backward, up, down, slid sideways, pivoted inward, and the front part can be pivoted upward too. For some, this might seem like overkill, but I did find that pivoting the armrests inward and pivoting the front part upward allowed me to get the chair in the perfect position to support my arms while they held an Xbox controller. At any rate, these options provide more customization opportunities to help you get the chair set up specifically to your needs. 

AndaSeat Kaiser 4: What I do not like

No joke. I've been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to come up with something, anything, critical to say about the Kaiser 4, and honestly, the only thing I can think of is that the knobs should be labeled better as either adjusting the height or adjusting depth. Additionally, If you're a smaller person, then you might find this chair a little too big. But really, this is the ideal office chair for people who frequently sit at a desk for long stretches. 

Sure, it would be nice if it was a bit more affordable. But, the Kaiser 4 is made of quality, durable, materials and offers far more customization options than most other chairs on the market, so the high price is justified. 

AndaSeat Kaiser 4: Competition

When considering durable competitors against the Kaiser 4, you don't have to look outside of AndaSeat's other offerings. As you know by now, I previously did a Kaiser 3 review from iMore (where I worked before coming here to Windows Central). But our own Sean Endicott also wrote an AndaSeat Kaiser 3 review, so you can read both and see why we recommend this previous gaming chair model. It has an MSRP of $549.99 for the Large or XL version and can often be found on sale at AndaSeat. It's also selling for just $469.99 at Amazon at the time of writing. This, of course, makes it significantly more affordable than the new Kaiser 4. 

Another highly customizable gaming chair with a quality build is the Razer Iskur V2 gaming chair. It also features internal adjustable lumbar support, but instead of having a pop-out function, the lumbar area is built to pivot from side-to-side in order to better match your exact positioning. I was able to sit on this gaming chair at CES 2024, and I can definitely say that it was a comfortable experience. The Razer Iskur V2 has the same $649.00 MSRP as the Kaiser 4.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• You want an office chair or gaming chair that will last a long time.
• You get uncomfortable sitting for long stretches and want a chair that offers great lumbar support.
• You want a reliable chair that can better match the shape of your body.

❌ You should not buy this if...

• You don't spend a lot of time sitting in one place for work or play. 
• You'd prefer not to spend quite as much, in which case I recommend looking at AndaSeat's other gaming chairs. 
• You aren't a fan of assembling furniture yourself.

Given how impressed I was with the Kaiser 3, I didn't think AndaSeat could offer any improvements I would want in the Kaiser 4, but boy, am I happy I was wrong. The adjustable, internal lumbar support allows me to place pressure in just the right place that exactly matches my body shape. Plus, the pop-out back function adds a little extra support to help me sit up straight while still being comfortable. 

This chair does take some effort to assemble, but the included illustrated instructions and tools should make it very easy to set things up correctly. True, it's pricey, but thanks to the sturdy build of the frame combined with the quality materials used, this chair will last you a long time so you won't have to replace it for several years to come. Plus, the various colors and cover materials will help you find a chair design that looks good in any room. It really is one of the very best office and gaming chairs out there right now. 

• AndaSeat Kaiser 4 at AndaSeat for $649.99

A good, reliable, ergonomic chair can be extremely expensive, but it's a worthwhile investment for those who need to sit in one place for long periods of time. Proper lumbar and neck support can be invaluable, but it's often not cheap. One of the most luxurious brands for those seeking a new chair is X-Chair, which designs a line of leather and mesh chairs with tons of adjustability, excellent comfort, and even some innovative tech.

X-Chair sent me its top-of-the-line X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair to review, and it replaced my trusty Secretlab Titan Evo (2022) as my primary chair. The X-Tech Ultimate also costs nearly four times that of the Titan Evo from $1,899 at X-Chair, so I had to evaluate if it's really worth paying that price. If you work from home or game for hours on end and have the money to invest, I say it is — but the chair isn't perfect, with some unrefined elements that bely the otherwise premium fit and finish.

This review was made possible with a review sample provided by X-Chair. The company did not see the contents of the review before publishing.

X-Tech Ultimate review: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair starts at $1,899 and caps out at $2,223 with all the options.
• You have six different patterns from which to choose, as well as options for a built-in massager and upgraded armrests.
• X-Chair also sells several more affordable models, including the downgraded X4 Leather Executive Chair that starts at $1,199.

X-Chair makes a wide variety of different office chairs, and none of them can be considered cheap when prices start from $299 at X-Chair. Even by luxury chair standards, though, the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair is a pricey piece of furniture. This premium chair combines the best of X-Chair's design, features, and build quality to create the most comfortable and ergonomic experience.

With options like a Memory Foam cushion and more advanced wheels coming standard, it's no wonder the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair starts from $1,899 at X-Chair, and rises all the way to a staggering $2,223 at X-Chair if you max out all the options. That's a massive investment to make in the wellbeing of your spine, but you at least get to choose from six different patterns and three different wheel colors to make your chair your own.

If you'd still like a very premium executive office chair that's not quite as luxurious as this one, the X-Chair X4 Leather Executive Chair starts from $1,199 at X-Chair and is a lot like the X-Chair X-Tech Executive Chair we reviewed a few years ago. You can also consider the Razer Fujin Pro for $1,049 at Razer for an alternative mesh chair, or the Razer Iskur V2 and its more traditional gaming chair design (with excellent lumbar support) for $649 at Razer. Finally, you can always consider the iconic Secretlab TITAN Evo (2022) from $549 at Secretlab.

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X-Tech Ultimate review: The good

The pros highlights

• The X-Tech Ultimate is attractive and is built extremely well, giving me confidence it would last for many years.
• It's also a very comfortable chair, with excellent ergonomics, lumbar support, and temperature management.
• The ELEMAX unit can also make an actual difference, cooling, heating, or massaging your lower back.

For around $2,000, you'd expect the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair to be a phenomenal product. Fortunately, X-Chair delivers here. This is a heavy chair, coming in at around 60lbs when it's all assembled, with a combination of metal, high-quality plastic, leather, mesh fabric, and foam comprising its many parts. It looks like you'd expect an executive office chair to look, rather than a gaming chair, but X-Chair does offer a variety of attractive designs in its configurator.

Setup up for the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair is almost seamless. Instructions were clear and everything made sense, but it was extremely finicky setting the hydraulics to adjust the seat height. Once everything is set up, you'll have to take some time to configure everything to you; this may take a while, since the X-Tech Ultimate includes adjustable seat height, seat depth, back depth, headrest height, headset angle, armrest height, armrest angle, and rocking strength.

One thing you won't have to adjust is the lumbar support. Once the back is set to the correct height, X-Chair's dynamic lumbar takes over to always ensure your back is properly and comfortably supported. This works well, and combines with the spacious, cool Memory Foam seat to make for a very comfortable seating experience. Say goodbye to sore butts, backs, and necks when you use this seat.

This chair is frankly miles more comfortable and built significantly better than the Secretlab TITAN Evo I used for years before. The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair also has another trick up its sleeve, though: the ELEMAX add-on. This chunky fabric pad slots behind the lumbar support and features a variety of buttons and a DC charging port. It's an all-in-one unit that can cool, heat, or massage your lower back off a built-in battery pack.

I was skeptical about the usefulness of this at first, but now I'm completely sold. The fans are genuinely nice for preventing my back from getting too hot or sweaty, and the massager (while subtle) does feel great. You'll have to charge the ELEMAX every now and then, which is a bit inconvenient, but this is a worthwhile add-on that is worth the extra $150.

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X-Tech Ultimate review: The bad

The cons highlights

• The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair has several minor flaws, like the FS Wheels getting caught every now and then.
• The optional 360-degrees armrests are also too easily moved and have no way to be locked in place.
• Finally, it's far too easy to reset the back height by going a little too far, and it doesn't feel like there's quite enough adjustment here.

It's easy to point to price as being a major con, but the quality and comfort of the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair justify that price tag. This chair isn't perfect, however, as I have several minor complaints. For one, the FS Wheels do feel very smooth and premium, but can sometimes get stuck when changing directions, requiring extra effort to move. The ELEMAX unit can be a little finicky to use by touch alone, too, with its buttons being hard to press at times.

The optional 360-degrees armrests are indeed highly adjustable, but there's unfortunately no way to lock the armrests in place. That means I regularly abruptly moved the armrests, once even causing my arm to slip off entirely. It's by far the most frustrating aspect of this chair, and it may be worth sticking with the regular armrests instead.

Finally, while the seat is large and spacious, I don't feel as if the back has quite enough adjustment. I'm exactly 6-feet tall, and the highest setting is only just barely large enough to be comfortable. Furthermore, it's far too easy to completely reset the back height — go a centimeter beyond the ten inches of adjustability and the back disconnects and slides down to the bottom, with no way to lock it at a specific height. I even accidentally reset the back height just by adjusting myself in the chair.

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X-Tech Ultimate review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You work from home or game for hours at a time

If you're sitting down a lot, it's vital that you have good back support to prevent strain and injuries over time. The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair is expensive, but it's an investment in your health and comfort, and is made for those who need to stay seated for hours at a time.

✅You want a chair that can warm, cool, and massage you

The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair is unique in that it has an optional add-on that can provide heating when it's cold, cooling when it's warm, and massaging when your lower back is sore. If that's valuable to you, there aren't many chairs that offer such luxury.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You're shopping on a strict budget

A decent chair is always going to be pricey, but the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair takes that to the next level. You're looking at spending around $2,000 for this chair, when you can get an alternative chair with almost as good ergonomics for half that price. Those on a strict budget have options.

When I bought my Secretlab TITAN Evo for around $600, I never expected that I'd one day use a chair that cost over three times that. The TITAN Evo served me very well for several years, but the X-Chair X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair is built better, is more ergonomic, has greater adjustability, and can help keep me comfortable whether it's hot or freezing in my office.

Not everyone will need to spend so much to get a great chair, though. Companies like Secretlab, Razer, and Vertagear all make excellent products that cost significantly less than the X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair, and many workers and gamers will be very happy with one of the best gaming chairs instead. For those that sit for hours on end day after day, however, an awesome chair with perfect lumbar support is like a great mattress — it's absolutely worth spending more to get the best you can, because it'll pay off in the long run.

The X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair isn't perfect, as I had some minor criticisms, but overall it's still a significant upgrade over the TITAN Evo and has greatly helped me stay comfortable and pain-free no matter how much time I spend at the desk. You can configure your own X-Chair X-Tech Ultimate Executive Chair from $1,899 at X-Chair, or save some cash with the more affordable (and still great) X-Chair X4 Leather Executive Chair from $1,199 at X-Chair.

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I've tested a lot of office chairs and gaming chairs and a computer chair company I've absolutely grown to love is AndaSeat. Over the last couple of years, I've been using the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL as my office chair. Its built-in adjustable lumbar support has provided the most comfortable sitting experience I've ever had. Now, the company is releasing its successor in the form of the AndaSeat Kaiser 4. Preorders are open with the chair releasing May 28, 2024. There are 10 colors to choose from. This is a pricey chair at $649.99, but it's also one you won't have to replace for several years to come, so it's worth the investment. 

What's so great about AndaSeat chairs?

I did an AndaSeat Kaiser 3 review for iMore, a few years ago (when I worked there) and I've loved the chair so much that I've continued to use it ever since even though I have reviewed several other chairs between then and now. My colleague here at Windows Central also did a Kaiser 3 review and walked away feeling like it was also one of the best gaming chairs out there. I've been using my Kaiser 3 for roughly two years now, averaging 45 hours a week on it. Even so, it shows absolutely no sign of wear or tear. It still provides the back support I need while looking as good as new. I'm sure things will be the same for the Kaiser 4.

From my own experience reviewing the company's chairs, I can say that AndaSeat might be a bit pricey, but it produces seats that are comfortable, classy, and built to last — not surprising given the company used to make chairs for BMW and Mercedes Benz. Don't worry. The company doesn't make awkward bucket seat racing chairs. They produce comfortable sloping seat cushions that are relaxing to sit on for long stretches. 

You don't have to worry about the chair falling apart or breaking down, either, since the company uses a steel framework with an aluminum wheelbase for sturdy construction. Additionally, the frame is cushioned with a high-density foam that's wrapped in your choice of either a linen fabric or a faux leather material — both of which are durable as well as soft. It all works together to create a very comfortable and stylish seat that is reliable for years to come. There's a reason I put AndaSeat Kaiser 3 on the list of best desktop PC accessories.

Now, I learned a few months ago after talking with Dr. Matthew Hwu of 1HP that I had been sitting in my office chairs completely wrong for most of my life and it was causing various aches and pains. Dr. Hwu said the most important part of an office chair wasn't lumbar support (like I had guessed) but was actually how adjustable the chair is. Each of us is different and so we need a chair that meets our specific body's needs. And seriously, the Kaiser 4 is one of the most adjustable office chairs I've ever seen.

Why choose the Kaiser 4? 

The Kaiser 4, specifically, builds upon the foundation of its Kaiser 3 predecessor, which offers built-in adjustable lumbar support. Simply turn the knobs on either side of the chair to alter how far the lumbar comes out as well as how high it sits. That way, you can get it situated to your specific body dimensions and needs. There's also a new button on the Kaiser 4 that pushes the back cushion out at an angle to provide "S"-shaped support for your back, which is ideal.

The included foam neck pillow magnetically attaches to the chair so you can get it positioned exactly where you want it without having to deal with ugly straps. Meanwhile, the 5D armrests can be adjusted forward, backward, up, down, shifted to the sides, or even angled up so you are sure to find an angle that works for you.

Of course, another awesome thing about the Kaiser 4 is the number of colors available to choose from. Certain colors are specifically tied to either the fabric linen or PVC leather material option, but in total there's Elegant Black, Cloudy White, Zen Purple, Blaze Orange, Bentley Brown, Classic Maroon, Creamy Pink, Robin Egg Blue, Ash Grey, and Carbon Black. With all these choices, you can easily choose a look that looks best in your office or gaming den. 

If interested, you can check out the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 preorder page to get even more details about this upcoming office chair. 

One of the hardest things to shop for is a good office or gaming chair. It's extremely hard to overstate how important a comfortable chair is for long gaming sessions or for a home office where you will be working 9 hours a day. It's worth noting that, for the most part, only some of the special edition chairs are on the full $100 off, but most of them are discounted. 

As somebody who has spent dozens of hours checking out hundreds of different chairs for my home office, do yourself a favor and pick up a known winner in the Secretlab Titan Evo, which is on sale right now on the Secretlab site.

🔥More great deals🔥

• Surface Pro 9 laptop | was $1,099.99 now $933 at Best Buy
• Xbox Series X | was $499 now $449 at Walmart
• Insignia 50-inch 4K TV | was $299.99 now $209.99 at Best Buy
• Lenovo LOQ 15 laptop | was $949.99 now $599.99 at Best Buy

Give your back a break

I recently spent weeks researching a new chair for my office. I looked on dozens of websites, read through reviews, and put so many different chairs in my carts until finally; I purchased what looked like a good chair for around $200. I wish I had just gone with the Secretlab Titan, though, because I'm not a huge fan of the chair I picked up. 

With that being said, do yourself a favor and grab a Secretlab chair while they are on sale. If you aren't sold on what Secretlab brings to the table, make sure to read our glowing review of the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022. 

"Now, that built-in lumbar support can be adjusted in four directions, allowing you to dial it in just right for your preferences. The dial on the right side of the chair allows you to move it up and down or in and out."

You can purchase your Secretlab in different sizes and with different bells and whistles. It's almost like purchasing a car with extra features. One of the most important things to choose is what size you need. The recommended size chart can be seen below. 

• RECOMMENDED SIZE
• SMALL - ≤5’6”<200lbs
• REGULAR* - 5’7”-6’2”<220lbs
• XL - 5’11”-6’9”175lbs-395lbs

As somebody who spends at least 10 hours a day in my office chair, I can tell you how important it is to have a good chair. While Secretlab chairs are on the more expensive side of the gaming chair market, I have never heard somebody regret purchasing one, and I don't think you will either.

If you have been looking to upgrade your game room or office setup, some good deals are going on right now. The Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S are both great options to spruce up your gaming room but you could also pick up an ASUS ROG Ally, which is on sale right now, and play it docked or in handheld mode.

Which Secretlab chairs are on sale? 

A lot of chairs are on sale right now on Secretlab's website, but if you go over to the website, you might notice that the basic models are only between $30 and $50 off. If you're looking for specific help, feel free to use the website's chat feature to speak with a member of the Secretlab team. It looks like most of the chairs that are marked off for the full $100 amount are the special editions. I wanted to highlight some of the other special editions that are on sale as well. 

• Secretlab Titan Evo Fortnite edition 
• Secretlab Titan Evo Lanister edition
• Secretlab TItan Evo Stark edition
• Secretlab Titan Evo LoL Pyke edition

There are probably some other special editions on sale for the full $100 off. But if you want a cheaper option, check out the black Titan Evo on Amazon, which has a coupon for $150 off right now, making it just $509. 

No matter which Secretlab chair you decide to grab during this sale, your back and posture are going to thank you. A good chair is one of the most important things we can change to drastically improve our quality of life, especially for those of us who work from home and are in a chair all day. Make sure you treat yourself right and grab a Secretlab chair on sale while you still can. 

What you need to know

• Razer, the technology company famous for producing high-quality gaming hardware, clothing, and furniture, has unveiled they are producing limited-edition products themed after the Gundam franchise.
• The products in question are a Gundam-themed Razer Iskur X gaming chair and various t-shirts, hoodies, and jumpers.
• Gundam is a famous anime franchise that's been around since the 1970s and usually centers around various countries, nations, and factions waging war using giant combat mechas.

Razer, the world-famous tech company known for developing gaming hardware and peripherals, has recently made an intriguing announcement on Twitter/X that fans of the Gundam franchise should take notice of. They will be hosting the Razer | Mobile Suit Gundam Collection, a collection of Limited Edition Razer Iskur X gaming chairs, T-shirts, Jumpers, and Hoodies with visual designs inspired by the iconic anime mecha series.

For the uninitiated, Gundam is a long-running anime franchise famous for creating the 'Real Robot' genre, a sub-genre of mecha anime that focuses on telling realistic, morally gray stories where giant robots are presented as tools of warfare.

The Gundam franchise has created dozens of anime series over the decades, but the one these Razer products are inspired by is Mobile Suit Gundam, the 1979 TV show that started it all. This show centered around a conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon faction as they waged a bloody war for control of the Earth.

Don't sleep on these Gundam-inspired Razer products as they won't be in stock for long

We reviewed the Razur Iskur X gaming chair many moons ago and we still consider it one of the best gaming chairs you can get your hands on. It has excellent lumbar support to maintain your posture while gaming or working for several hours, it has ergonomic-friendly memory foam neck pillows and armrests, and it is made of tough yet comfortable synthetic leather.

In addition, the Razer | Mobile Suit Gundam Collection will be sporting distinct designs featuring two of the most recognizable mechas from the show - the titular RX-78-2 Gundam (piloted by the show's protagonist, Amuro Ray) and the intimidating Zaku II (piloted by one of the show's antagonists, Char Aznable). 

So, If you happen to be a Gundam fan looking for a high-quality gaming chair and clothing that shows your love for the franchise while playing the best Xbox games and best PC games based on Gundam, then the Razer | Mobile Suit Gundam Collection is for you.

Secretlab makes some of the best gaming chairs around. They're a well-recognized name with a reputation for sturdy seats that last. Their Titan gaming chairs are also available in a variety of sizes and color schemes, including quite a few designs inspired by games and gamers. Right now, you can save up to $100 on Secretlab gaming chairs. The company also has discounts on desks, accessories, and merchandise.

The sale is for Valentine's Day, so you only have about one day to grab items at a discount (as of time of publication).

Secretlab gaming chairs

We've reviewed plenty of Secretlab gaming chairs over the years, including the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022. That chair is sturdy, high-quality, and comfortable. It's also easy to put together, though hopefully you'll only have to assemble a gaming chair once.

"The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 does what Secretlab has proven it can do over and over again: Take a winning formula and continue to improve upon it in meaningful ways," we said in our Secretlab Titan Evo review. "The company has been very responsive to feedback, leading to changes both small and large. The inclusion of an improved adjustable lumbar support mechanism on every model is a perfect example of taking a criticism and delivering even more than expected."

I reviewed the adorably small Secretlab Titan XXS a couple of years ago. While that review focuses largely on Secretlab's playful marketing of the Titan XXS as a gaming chair for dogs, it's actually a lovely chair for kids. One of my friends plays games with their child who has used the Titan XXS since shortly after my review. The Secretlab Titan XXS is discounted for Valentine's Day.

The biggest drawback of Secretlab's chairs is that they have high price tags. The Valentine's Day sale helps with that.

Not just chairs

While Secretlab is likely best known for its gaming chairs, the company has a variety of other accessories and devices. Several desks are on sale, including the Secretlab Magnus. That metal desk has built-in cable management, a sturdy metal frame, and is available in multiple different styles. The company also has a Secretlab Magnus Pro desk that we reviewed at launch (spoiler, it earned high marks).

As is the case with its chairs, the best deal on a Secretlab desk is on a version with a theme. The Team Secret version of the Secretlab Magnus is $99 off, bringing its price down to $549. Team Liquid and some other branded desks are heavily discounted as well. Quite a few desks with accents and designs based on games are discounted too, such as the Cyberpunk 2077 Magnus desk and the Dark Knight Magnus desk.

If you prefer a clean esthetic, the signature black Magnus desk is on sale for $558 ($70 off).

Secretlab's relatively new chair skins are also on sale (10% off for Valentine's Day). These skins let you redecorate your Titan Evo series chair with a new look. They also provide an extra bit of protection from spills and scratching.

Anyone who spends any significant amount of time at a desk will want to invest in a quality chair to support them.

Like a good mattress, it's investing in your health — but many of us also just want an awesome looking chair that happens to be comfortable to sit in.

Whatever your budget or your ergonomic and style needs, Windows Central has tested a variety of reputable gaming and office chairs from multiple companies, so we possess the knowledge to provide recommendations you can trust.

The quick list

Our favorite gaming and office chairs in 2025

1. Best gaming chair overall

You don't have to go far to see a Secretlab chair, as it's the preferred choice for many gamers, professionals, streamers, and creatives. When you use one for yourself, you understand why the brand is so trusted.

Secretlab chairs are already expensive, though, and the NanoGen Edition is much more so. This takes the absolute best of Secretlab and combines that with two "next-gen" materials to create a chair that is more comfortable, supportive, and reliable than ever.

Somehow, it delivers. The NanoGen Edition is noticeably improved over the standard variant, with supple fabric that somehow resists stains, tears, and creases, and firm-yet-soft cushioning that's sculpted down to the millimeter across the entire chair.

Upgraded heavy-duty armrests give you full adjustability in five directions (with locks at any point), and Secretlab's luxurious Memory Foam armrest tops are included. You still get the same adaptive lumbar support, which is predictably excellent (although not the absolute best).

👀Read our full Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition review

The Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition is the best chair I've ever had in my office, although it is quite a bit more expensive than the already-pricey TITAN Evo (2022). Perfection charges a premium, and a lot of people could honestly save some cash by going with one of the more affordable options here.

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2. Best gaming chair runner up

In my Kaiser 4 review, I talked about how I couldn't imagine AndaSeat outdoing themselves after the phenomenal chair that was the Kaiser 3, but this latest gaming chair model definitely impressed me. 

As with its predecessor, the Kaiser 4 features an internal lumbar support mechanism that adjusts vertically or horizontally by turning the knobs on either side of the chair. This helps you determine the exact height and depth of lumbar support provided by the chair without having to deal with those awkward lumbar pillows that often come with gaming chairs. 

But the thing that makes the Kaiser 4 stand out from the Kaiser 3 is its new pop-out function. Basically, the back padding that houses the internal lumbar support can be popped out and positioned where you want it, to better align with your spine. In other words, this chair so so customizable that you can get it better setup for your specific body shape. Seriously, this is the most comfortable gaming chair I've ever sat in.

AndaSeat used to produce car seats for BMW and Mercedes and this focus on quality continues with its latest gaming chairs. They're made of quality materials including a steel frame, memory foam neck pillows, and an aluminum five-star wheelbase to provide an office chair that will last you a very long time.

The XL option can even hold up to 395 pounds, so it's very accommodating. As with most gaming chairs, the Kaiser 4 comes unassembled, but all of the tools you need and illustration instructions are included in the box to help you get the chair set up as soon as possible.

👀Read our full AndaSeat Kaiser 4 review

To be clear, this is a pricier computer chair. However, it's durable so you won't have to replace it as often as you would with a cheaper chair. If you regularly tend to sit at a desk for long stretches then you'll benefit from having this amazing office chair that is so customizable that you'll be able to get it set up to your specific needs. 

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3. Best gaming chair value

The Razer Enki X, priced at $299, offers an outstanding balance of comfort, design, and price. It shares the same seat, backrest, and overall design as its higher-priced counterpart, the Enki, but with some differences, like 2D armrests and fixed lumbar support. This chair is well-suited for people who spend extended periods at a desk for gaming or work.

Assembly is straightforward and user-friendly, with humorous instructions and pre-threaded screws, making the process quicker than assembling the Iskur. The chair boasts a broad seat base, allowing for more movement and comfort, a feature often lacking in typical gaming chairs.

The Enki X's standout feature is its "pressure mapping" design, which distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure points and discomfort during prolonged sitting. Although it lacks the Iskur's articulating lumbar arch, the fixed lumbar support in Enki X is supportive and comfortable.

Material quality is a particular highlight, with premium "dual-textured eco-sustainable synthetic leather" used, contributing to both comfort and environmental consciousness. The chair's aesthetic is enhanced by its patterned fabric, which helps prevent sliding.

👀Read our full Razer Enki X review

It's an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable and durable chair for gaming and office work, particularly those on a tighter budget. While it lacks some of the advanced features of its pricier counterpart, it still offers excellent value and quality. Its ergonomic design and comfort-focused features make it a strong contender in the gaming chair market, suitable for long hours of use.

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4. Best gaming chair lumbar support

When we reviewed the original Razer Iskur, we were evaluating not just the chair, but also Razer as a newfound contestant in the category. We gave the chair good marks for its lumbar support and design, but there were obviously improvements to be made.

Then the Razer Iskur V2 came along, improving practically everything over the original. A sleeker, more refined design, superior build quality, far more adjustability, upgraded lumbar support — it's all there.

We sadly haven't reviewed the Razer Iskur V2 ourselves, but I have used the chair and can attest to its quality. It's a sturdy seat with a lumbar support system that adjusts in six directions.

The Iskur V2 certainly does a better job supporting your back than Secretlab's offerings, although it's also a little more expensive to obtain. You can check out the review below from one of our sister sites for more information.

👀Read Tom's Guide's full Razer Iskur V2 review

Razer really has established itself as a legitimate player when it comes to worthwhile and trustworthy gaming and office chairs, and the Iskur V2 contributes to that in a big way.

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5. Best gaming chair designs

The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, starting at $650 (with frequent sales reducing it to around $500-$520), offers a blend of customization, comfort, and style. It comes in various sizes, materials (leatherette, fabric, and NAPA leather), and designs, including ones based on popular franchises. Notable for its magnetic accessories, such as detachable memory foam and cooling gel armrests, and a strapless magnetic head pillow, the Titan Evo 2022 elevates user convenience and satisfaction.

The chair features a pebble seat base designed for ergonomic comfort, allowing natural movement and space for sitting cross-legged. The 4-way adjustable lumbar support, a significant upgrade from previous models, caters to a range of user preferences, ensuring personalized back support.

Regarding durability, the new NEO leatherette claims 12 times the durability of regular PU leather, and the SoftWeave Plus fabric option offers a softer, more breathable alternative. The chair's assembly process has been streamlined over the years, and the lever mechanisms are now more user-friendly.

👀Read our full Secretlab TITAN Evo (2022) review

It exemplifies Secretlab's commitment to continuous improvement and addressing user feedback effectively. Its adjustable lumbar support, ergonomic design, and range of customizable options make it a top choice for those seeking a durable, comfortable chair for work and play. While the price point is considerable, the chair's quality, longevity, and personalization options justify the investment for those prioritizing comfort and style in their gaming or work environment.

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6. Best gaming chair for kids

The Secretlab Titan XXS is a collectible yet fully functional miniature gaming chair, priced at $299 for the black model and $319 for the SoftWeave Plus fabric versions. Its adorable design has received an "aww" reaction universally. Suitable for weights up to 70 kg (154 lbs) and heights up to 160 cm (5'2"), it's ideal for kids who spend time gaming or at a desk.

Assembly is straightforward and simplified, with pre-drilled holes and included tools that are easy to use. The chair's sturdiness and quality construction are consistent with Secretlab's reputation in the gaming chair industry. Its comfort was even praised by children, noting it as better than some adult gaming chairs.

The chair features hybrid leatherette material for the black model and SoftWeave Plus fabric for the colored versions. However, pets did not particularly favor the leatherette material, indicating the chair's clear human-centric design.

👀Read our full Secretlab TITAN Evo XXS review

It's a charming and high-quality choice for children who are into gaming. While it is an investment, its durability and comfort make it a worthwhile purchase for a child's gaming setup. The chair's design and build quality make it stand out in the market of children's gaming chairs. Although not suitable for pets or larger adults, it's a perfect miniature version of Secretlab's renowned Titan series, designed to make any kid feel like a real gamer.

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How to choose the best gaming chair

Choosing the best gaming chair means balancing comfort, budget, and your specific needs. For extended use, the Razer Iskur V2 stands out with its best-in-class lumbar support. For unbeatable customization, the iconic Secretlab TITAN Evo comes in countless designs — and even supports replaceable skins.

There are a lot of great gaming and office chairs out there, and we only highlighted six of the options we've tested and recommend.

For those who desire the best, that would be the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, but we've also reviewed plenty of awesome chairs from brands like AndaSeat, Razer, and Vertagear.

A nice chair is an important investment in yourself, so it's crucial that you do the research beforehand to ensure you're getting the seat best suited to settling your sitter.

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During CES this year, Windows Central's Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino, and I had the opportunity to meet with Razer to discuss the company's new Iskur V2 gaming chair — a fantastic seat with adjustable, internal lumbar support that pivots from side to side in order to provide customizable back support even when users shift around in their seat. 

Basically, what this means is that the Razer Iskur V2 is designed for more realistic usage, knowing that many people don't sit perfectly straight while at a computer. So, the announcement for the Razer Iskur V2 gaming chair is particularly meaningful news for me, a person who tends to sit with one leg on the office chair while leaning to one side during work and gaming sessions. 

As part of this meeting, the good folks at Razer introduced us to Dr. Matthew Hwu, CEO and founder of 1 Health Point (1HP). Dr. Hwu's organization is dedicated to educating people on how to work and play on computers without experiencing pain. This is accomplished by employing better sitting habits, doing specific stretches, utilizing physical therapy techniques, and more. 

After some time spent with Dr. Hwu, I realized I'd been sitting in my computer chair all wrong, and you probably have been too. Making some small changes could really help you relieve the aches and pains you may be experiencing. 

Gaming chair diagnosis by the good doc

To start things off, Dr. Hwu informed us that the most important aspect of the best gaming chairs wasn't lumbar support (like I thought) but rather the ability to make adjustments to the chair to meet your specific anatomy and lifestyle. He then proceeded to ask us several questions including how long we work at a computer on average each day, how many breaks we take, how long we spend gaming, and if we were currently experiencing any aches or pains. 

Being someone who writes for a living, I told him that I tend to spend eight to 10 hours at a computer on the daily and that I also tend to play PC games for around four hours (sometimes more). However, I also had to say that I don't often get up from my seat during that time except once a day to take a one-hour walk. I know, I know. Not the healthiest of habits. 

When I further explained that my wrist and forearm have been bothering me for several weeks, he nodded knowingly and told me that this is a common problem for people who stay at their desks for long stretches. Then he informed me that I could find some shoulder and wrist exercises on 1HP's YouTube channel that could help reduce this pain.

The good doctor wrote down my answers on a prescription note, then asked me to sit in the Razer Iskur V2 and proceeded to take measurements of my back and leg. He informed me that my feet should be flat on the floor and my legs should go along with the seat cushion so my knees and thighs are parallel to the ground.

After lowering the seat until I was in that position, he also told me that people should have their backrests set between 90 and 120 degrees — in my case, he informed me that 90 degrees was a good placement for my back. Dr. Hwu then asked me to shrug and then drop my shoulders down to their natural resting position, and it was at this height that he set my armrests so they supported my elbows in a relaxed position.

As far as the internal lumbar support goes, it should be located at the small of your back. But when it comes to depth, Dr. Hwu informed me that instead of setting the Razer Iskur V2's internal lumbar at a specific pressure and leaving it, I should be adjusting the lumbar depth throughout the day depending on what I'm doing. There was a lot of information to remember, but I believe he told me that it was good to increase the lumbar depth on days when I would be getting up more regularly and to decrease it some when I'm sitting for longer stretches.

The right chair positioning can alleviate pains throughout your body

All of this ergonomic positioning, Dr. Hwu explained, would help reduce and relieve certain aches and pains associated with long computer usage. Unsurprisingly, he also suggested that Daniel and I take more time to get up from our desks each day to walk for a while before continuing our sedentary work. With the help of frequent movement, specific stretches, and proper ergonomic chair positioning specific to your anatomy, you can reduce pain in the back, neck, legs, and arms.

A few days after this experience, I returned home and was curious to see how far off my personal gaming chair (see our AndaSeat Kaiser 3 review) positioning was from Dr. Hwu's recommendations. Turns out, everything needed to be adjusted to lower positions since my chair's height, armrests, and internal lumbar support were all too high for my personal anatomy. I also lowered my internal lumbar support, which admittedly does feel a lot better. Since making these changes, I have noticed a reduction in my wrist pain and random ankle pain that I sometimes experience after working for long hours.

If you're someone who works at a desk or plays games for long periods, then I highly recommend you take a look at Dr. Hwu's 1HP videos and make the appropriate changes to your computer chair setup. Of course, using a cheap chair that doesn't have the best build or adjustment options won't help you much. So, if you're in need of a new office chair or gaming chair then it might be worth considering the new Razer Iskur V2, with its more practical lumbar support. Your back and body will thank you. 

What you need to know

• The Razer Iskur V2 gaming chair launches today and retails at $649.99.
• Unveiled at CES 2024, it boasts superior lumbar support to it's predecessor with a spring loaded mechanism designed to adjust to the curvature of your spine.
• Razer also showed off the innovative Project Esther, the worlds first haptic gaming cushion which fits to a chair and uses 16 haptic actuators to immerse you into your video games.

Razer's CES 2024 showcase, as we've come to expect from the brand, was full of welcome upgrades to its existing product line along with something trying to push the gaming accessory market further when it comes to enhancing our gaming experience. Amongst other announced products, we got a Razer Iskur V2 gaming chair which is available to purchase right now for $649.99, and something all altogether more unusual in the conceptual product, Project Esther. The world's first haptic gaming cushion, yes that's a haptic feedback seating device — we are edging closer to the Ready Player One reality. And yes that was a totally intentional pun. Alas, it's purely conceptual at this stage so let's look at the very real and very much available to buy Razer Iskur V2 first.

The Razur Iskur is one of the best gaming chairs you can buy, and the V2 looks to take that to the next level

The Razer Iskur V2, unveiled today at CES 2024 aims to be a leap forward in gaming comfort and lumbar support. We already reviewed and loved the Razer Iskur, so this launch has more than piqued our interest. The chair comes in 3 iterations, Black leather, Black and Green leather and a fabric finish.

The main focus of the Iskur V2 is its '6D adjustable and adaptive lumbar support system', a feature completely unique to this chair. This cutting-edge system adapts to the natural curvature of your spine, ensuring real-time adjustments based on your body's weight and posture. The integrated lumbar curve adjustments, including protrusion and height tuning, allow for an entirely personalized fit, catering to individual preferences like no chair before it. A bold claim, and for $649.99 you're certainly paying for the best in chair development. Not unike a good mattress, something you sit on for many hours a day should be the best you can get if you can afford it and the Iskur already set the bar incredibly high. The V2 is an exciting update to the range and we can't wait to try it out. 

The 4D armrests provide extensive customization options, allowing you to adjust height, position, and angle to suit your unique preferences. Additionally, the memory foam head cushion ensures tailored head and neck support during extended gaming marathons.

Razer went hard with it's claims on this chair, quoting that it is "the best gaming chair on the market." If you want to find out if that claim is true, you can purchase it today direct from Razer.

Project Esther, the world's first haptic gaming cushion brings us closer to a Ready Player One reality

Razer likes to push the limits of what's possible with gaming tech, and they're even experimenting with making gaming seating more exciting as shown with Project Esther — a haptic feedback gaming cushion. Razer has announced Razer Sensa HD Haptics, a combination of its work with HyperSense haptics as seen in the Razer Nari Ultimate gaming headset, and its acquisition of Interhaptics, a haptic development platform for game studios.

Aiming to blur the lines between gaming and reality, Razer Sensa HD Haptics allow developers to customize the haptics to their own preferences for directionality, multi-actuator function and integration for their games on different platforms and peripherals. To best display this innovation, Project Esther was revealed, a gaming cushion that has a universal fit for most chairs (though just so happens to look perfect on the new Razer Iskur V2).

Haptic feedback, for your butt? I hear you ask. From feeling the car turn the corner in your favorite racing simulator, to feeling the impact of a bullet in a Call of Duty. Or, exactly where my mind went, feeling the cheeky pat on the butt from your romantic companion in Baldur's Gate 3. "Babe I bought it for the immersion, honestly!"

A haptic gaming seat could be the next big thing in gaming accessories. It's a sensory upgrade that could bring every explosion, heartbeat, and subtle touch palpably to life. It's not quite the full-body suit from Ready Player One, but it's a step in that direction and hopefully, it won't cost 15K like the Teslasuit.

We've no news on if and when Project Esther will come to the retail market, but attendees at CES 2024 get to experience it in person, and you can find out more information on the project here at Razer's website.

What began as a joke became the best gaming chair for kids. The Secretlab XXS is a 1:2 replicate of the company's well-reviewed Titan lineup, bringing the quality of high-end gaming chairs to a smaller size. The Titan XXS is $40 off for Black Friday.

More great Black Friday deals

• Walmart: Early Black Friday deals on practically everything
• Dell: Top deals on laptops, gaming PCs, accessories, and more
• Alienware: Up to $800 off gaming laptops and desktops
• Best Buy: Big savings on video games, accessories, and more
• HP: Up to 84% of select HP Windows PCs and accessories
• Lenovo: Up to 50% of gaming towers, laptops, and accessories
• Newegg: Save on PC gaming accessories, components, and more
• Razer: Up to 43% off laptops and accessories with free gifts
• More individual deals:
  • Xbox Series X + Diablo IV + free $75 Target gift card for $634.99 $449.99 at Target
  • Samsung T9 4TB Portable SSD for $439.99 $249.99 at Best Buy
  • Xbox Stereo Headset — 20th Anniversary for $69.99 $46.86 at Walmart
  • Xbox Series X + Diablo IV + Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III for $639.99 $489.99 at Walmart
  • TP-Link Deco X55 Wi-Fi mesh 3-pack for $229.99 $179.99 at Amazon
  • Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma for $149.99 $89.99 at Best Buy
  • Xbox Series X + $50 Best Buy gift card for $549.99 $399.99 at Best Buy for Plus/Total members
  • HyperX Cloud III Wireless for $169.99 $129.99 at Best Buy
  • Lenovo LOQ Tower (17IRB8) + 3-months Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from $1,029.99 $674.99 at Lenovo

Who is the Secretlab XXS for?

Gaming is a growing hobby for younger children and is also a popular way for parents and kids to spend time together. The list of the best Xbox kids games is impressive and growing. Minecraft, Among Us, and Kingdom Hearts III are just a few excellent family-friendly games. If you do choose to have a dog in the chair, there's always PAW Patrol World.

I admit that I wrote my Secretlab Titan XXS review as a joke. I did genuinely run the chair through its paces, but I did it from the playful angle of having my dogs use it. But since that review in February 2022, I gave the chair to a friend of mine who games with his children, who are 8 and 4.

The chair has held up well in that time, acting as a throne and trusty companion for my friend's children for almost two years. His four-year-old said "it's great" when asked about the chair. The eight-year-old said "it's ok" but I'm fairly certain that was said in jest. My friend confirmed that the chair "is holding up great."

The Secretlab XXS is a sturdy and well-built gaming chair that's excellent for children. It isn't some cheap replica. It's genuinely a Secretlab Titan chair that's just... smaller. It's a as cute as a toy but it's built to the same standard as other Secretlab chairs, like the Titan Evo.

You can order the Secretlab XXS in three different colors and two different materials, but at the moment the black hybrid leatherette version is out of stock. The pink and blue SoftWeave Plus fabric versions are still available and on sale.

I've been testing gaming chairs for over three years now and in that time I've absolutely fallen in love with AndaSeat. The company used to make sports car seats for BMW and Mercedes Benz and it employs that same level of quality to its gaming chairs today. Right now, the company is doing a pre-Black Friday sales promotion, which reduces many of its gaming chairs by quite a bit.

Currently, my absolute favorite gaming chair, the AndaSeat Kaiser 3, is on sale for $100 off as part of this event. I've tested quite a few gaming chairs since reviewing this one, but it's by far the one that I prefer to use. It's comfortable, made of beautiful materials, can hold a lot of weight, and has adjustable built-in lumbar support so I can find the perfect settings to help me be comfortable and sit up straight. Plus, you can either get it in a large or extra large size depending on your needs.

I did my AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL review last year for our sister site iMore before coming to work at Windows Central. Meanwhile, my current colleague, Sean Endicott, also did an AndaSeat Kaiser 3 review for Windows Central around that same time. So you can read both of our glowing reports regarding this gaming chair.

There are definitely less expensive gaming chairs out there, but something I can say for AndaSeat is that they make really high-quality products that will last you for a long time. Some of the cheaper chairs I've tested fall apart after a while or aren't nearly as sturdy feeling. So, it might cost a bit more, but the Kaiser 3 is definitely a great investment that will last a long time and provide excellent back support while doing so. 

One of the things I absolutely love about it is that it has internal lumbar support that can be adjusted using the knobs on either side. When turned, one knob determines how high the lumbar support is while the other knob determines how far out the lumbar support comes. That way, I can get the chair to fit my specific needs without having to fumble around with an awkward (and usually bulky) lumbar pillow. Meanwhile, an included neck pillow attaches to the top of the chair magnetically. It is soft to the touch and feels great to rest back on. 

My Kaiser 3 XL is black PVC leather with orange stitching and looks beautiful wherever it is, but there are plenty of other colors to choose from including gray, orange, brown, red, pink, and blue. I love the faux leather material because it's easy to clean, however, there is also the option of going with a fabric material if you prefer that feel.   

The chair comes unassembled and comes with helpful step-by-step instructions to help you get it put together. All of the tools you need are also included in the box so you don't need to supply anything yourself. 

If you are looking for a great deal on gaming chairs, you should check out the amazing sale that Secretlab is running on its Amazon store. We've tested a bunch of Secretlab chairs here at Windows Central, and there really is a chair for everyone. From PU leather options in the Omega line to the new Titan EVO series in a wide range of sizes, you're spoilt for choice with up to $100 off some of the most popular chairs.

All of the ranges Secretlab offers are kind to your back with optimal ergonomics and plenty of options to adjust to any body shape.

Simply put, Secretlab are cream of the crop when it comes to gaming chairs, and these discounts thanks to Amazon Big Deal Days will net you a considerable saving. 

SecretLab's full sale

Our top SecretLab recommendations for Big Deal Days

We hope you can find something to suit your needs in this mammoth sale, and with Secretlabs colossal range of chairs, the most challenging thing is just picking which is your favorite design.

We're keeping out beady eyes out for more deals during the Amazon Big Deals days, but you do need to be a Prime subscriber to take advantage of the best deals.

If you're not already a member, you must sign up for Amazon Prime for $14.99 per month or $139 annually (plus tax) to qualify for discounts. For new users, a 30-day trial of Prime is the perfect way to take advantage since you're free to cancel your subscription after the event.

Big Deal Days: The best savings

• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K: was $49.99 now $22.99 at Amazon
• Blink Mini security camera: was $34.99 now $19.99 at Amazon
• Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller: was $129.99 now $88.00 at Walmart
• 50-inch 4K Fire TV: was $375.99 now $149.99 at Amazon

What you need to know

• RazerCon 2023 is in full swing, and Razer has announced a new addition to its growing lineup of high-end chairs.
• The Fujin line is joining Enki and Iskur, proving a quality, ergonomic mesh option to consumers.
• The Fujin Pro comes with 2D lumbar support, a 3D headrest, and durable frame constructed of aluminum alloy and breathable mesh.
• The Razer Fujin Pro is coming Nov. 2023 for $999, while the regular Fujin is available now for $599.

UPDATE (Sept. 22, 2023): Updated with a small correction removing mentions of a feature mistakenly listed in our pre-release information that is not present in the final product.

RazerCon 2023 is in full swing, and viewers are trying to stay comfortable. It's hard, though, unless you're sitting in a Razer chair. At least, that's probably what Razer hopes, and it's aiming to appeal to even more sitters with the latest addition to its steadily growing lineup of gaming chairs. Please welcome the Razer Fujin Pro and Razer Fujin to the floor.

While the Razer Iskur offers ultimate lumbar support while gaming, and the Razer Enki Pro delivers extreme comfort, the new Razer Fujin line tackles an entirely different niche of high-end chairs: mesh designs. Some of the most premium office chairs incorporate mesh designs for best-in-class comfort, build quality, and breathability, and Razer is incorporating all of that in the Razer Fujin.

The Fujin Pro is certainly a premium chair, with all the features you'd expect in this category (like an extremely steep price tag). You get that ultra-breathable, durable mesh across the entire back and seat. There's Razer's "Synchro-tilt technology with Tilt-tension Control," which basically means the chair can dynamically adjust its position to match your posture as you move around. A 3D contoured headrest keeps your head and neck perfectly supported, too.

There's plenty of adjustment, including 130-degrees of recline room, adjustable 2D lumbar support, height and seat depth adjustment, and fully adjustable armrests. The Razer Fujin Pro supports up to 300lbs with its aluminum alloy frame, and is slated to release worldwide in Nov. 2023. You're looking at a high price tag of $999.

If you want to save some money, the regular Razer Fujin drops the headrest, loses a dimension of adjustability in the lumbar support, and cuts back on the overall adjustability. You still get that Synchro-tilt Technology, though, as well as a high-quality mesh build that supports up to 299lbs. The Razer Fujin is available to purchase now for $599.

Looking for more... exclusivity? Well, Razer is collaborating with luxury brand Dolce&Gabbana to create some unique, black-and-gold products. Yes, that means real 24K gold, too. The Razer Barracuda wireless gaming headset is first on the line, and it actually looks quite dashing with its unique gold-lined padding. The Razer Enki Pro gaming chair is next up, adapting the same aggressive black-and-gold design. Finally, Razer showed off a concept of that same Razer Enki Pro, but the gold is swapped with full Razer Chroma RGB integration. It may just be a concept, but Razer did show off a working prototype and teased that something similar could come to players inthe future.

If you're interested in the Razer x Dolce&Gabbana collaboration, you'll have to act fast. Both the Barracuda and Enki Pro will be available in extremely limited quantities, with just 1,337 of each product being sold worldwide later this year. Be prepared to pay a premium for the exclusive designs, too. Elsewhere, Dolce&Gabbana will sell some exclusive Razer apparel at its own stores. If you're interested, you can sign up now for free at Razer.

The Razer Fujin and Fujin Pro certainly aren't affordable, even in comparison to the above collaboration, but they'll at least be more widely available. If you've been in the market for a new premium mesh chair for your office, Razer's Fujin line may be just what you're looking for.

Stay tuned to Windows Central for more from RazerCon 2023, like the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro gaming keyboards, Razer Blade 16 Automobili Lamborghini Edition, and Razer Synapse and Chroma updates with new Aether lights.

[Updated July 12 4:35 PM ET with latest pricing information]

Razer is a well-known brand for gaming peripherals, laptops, and accessories, all featuring flashy RGB lighting. The Razer Iskur gaming chair is different – it has no RGB, but it still looks sleek and stylish. If you want a gaming chair that is comfortable, sturdy, and not too flashy, the Iskur might be a good choice for you. In our review, we said it was absolutely worth splashing out $500 on, but now it's discounted by a lot, this chair just became one of the hottest deals for Prime Day and time is fast running out to get one at this price. You also don't need Amazon Prime to get it right now at this price. 

A chair that you're going to spend hours upon hours sitting in should be an important investment for your comfort, and we highly suggest checking out our review for the Razer Iskur when it was initially released.

The main difference between the chair we reviewed, and this updated Razer Iskur X is the lumbar support, which while great in this chair, is not adjustable like it was in the original model. The X is also lighter than its predecessor, so easier to move around if you wish.

For only $299, though, you can significantly improve your gaming and working environment. This chair is a beast for hardcore gaming, with a shape that hugs your curves, a seat that lets you lean back or forward, and a height that fits you just right. Plus, it’s covered in premium quality synthetic leather that won’t crack or peel like on cheaper chairs. Additionally, the armrests on the Razer Iskur X can be adjusted by height and rotation to your preference which is handy for switching between gaming and work use.

If you’re looking for a chair that can handle long hours of gaming without compromising on comfort, support, durability, and style, then the Razer Iskur X is the one for you. Unlike some other ‘gaming chairs’ that are just repurposed racing seats with flashy colors and logos, the Razer Iskur X is designed specifically for gamers, with features that cater to their needs and preferences. The Razer Iskur X has a sleek and elegant design that doesn’t scream ‘gamer’ but rather exudes a refined taste and sophistication.

Why we like this deal

The Iskur is expensive, but it's worth it if you spend a lot of time sitting in front of your PC. I believe that similar to where we sleep, somewhere we sit should be worth investing in. Many gaming chairs seem to focus on aesthetics rather than comfort, which in the long term just isn't good for your physical health, so for $300, this is a great investment.

On the whole, when searching for a great chair, I'd generally recommend looking at the best office chairs than one specifically marketed at gamers. Office chairs tend to be cheaper, with more features at the compromise of some style points, but overall, a lot more comfortable. But if you're looking for something that ticks both the comfort and style boxes, the Razer Iskur X is my top choice. 

I'm not even sure how many gaming chairs I've assembled and tested over the last five years, but it's definitely a regular occurrence for me. More so than any other gaming chair brands, AndaSeat has always stood out to me with its commitment to quality and durability. So, when I heard that the company had a new gaming chair coming out, I was very excited to review it. 

After spending over two weeks using this chair during my eight-hour workdays and while playing my best PC games in my free time, I'm happy to report that this is once more another fantastic chair from AndaSeat. If you're looking for a comfortable chair that looks beautiful and will last a long time, then this is the chair for you.  

Disclaimer: This review was made possible by a review unit provided by AndaSeat. The company did not see the contents of the review before publishing.

Kaiser Frontier: Price & availability

AndaSeat sells the Kaiser Frontier XL for $450, however, you can often find the chair being sold at a discount on the AndaSeat website. Occasionally, AndaSeat chairs can be found selling on Amazon, but it's more likely that you'll only be able to purchase the Kaiser Frontier from AndaSeat itself. 

It comes in either black or maroon and comes wrapped in premium PVC leather for a soft feel. 

Kaiser Frontier: Assembly & build quality

I've assembled dozens of gaming chairs over the last five years and AndaSeat has always impressed me with its quality, durability, and easy assembly. The same is true of the Kaiser Frontier XL. 

As is usually the case with any gaming chair you purchase, the Kaiser Frontier XL arrives in a somewhat heavy box with all of the parts separate and unassembled. Something I love about AndaSeat is that they always include a detailed and fully illustrated instruction manual in the box along with a set of screws and an Allen wrench for easily screwing them in place. A few weeks ago, I busted my finger playing volleyball and have been trying to be careful with it, but even so, I was able to assemble the Kaiser Frontier XL in about an hour. This was thanks to the aforementioned manual and simple tools. 

I requested the maroon version of this gaming chair for review and at first when I opened the box, I thought I'd been mistakenly sent the black one. However, I soon realized that the backside of the maroon chair is indeed black. I actually prefer it this way as it gives more contrast to the chair and helps the beautiful red of the front really stand out. 

As far as build quality goes, the AndaSeat Kaiser Frontier XL is a very impressive gaming chair that will look good in any setting.  But this grand appearance isn't just skin deep. At its core, the chair has a durable seamless steel frame that's covered in high-density foam for comfortable cushioning. Meanwhile, the PVC leather is extremely soft to the touch and looks very impressive thanks to its textured quality. What's more, the flexible, leathery material is very easy to clean if you happen to spill any food or other items on it.

Thanks to its sturdy build, the Kaiser Frontier XL can hold up to 330 pounds and has always felt extremely stable. I'm five-foot-six inches tall and the chair fits my frame perfectly. This isn't surprising since AndaSeat specifically states the chair is intended for people between five and a half to six and a half feet tall. I will give a warning, though, that the seat cushion does feature a racecar bucket seat type of design that might make folks larger than me feel a little squished around the hips and thighs due to the wings that rise up on either side of the cushion.

Much like many of the other AndaSeat chairs I've tested, the Kaiser Frontier XL features 4D adjustable armrests. This basically means they can be moved up and down, front and back, side to side, or even rotated to get them into a more comfortable position. All I have to do is press in the metal button on the side using my thumb or pull up on the mechanism on the outer side and then they adjust according to the pressure I place on them. 

A major improvement from past chairs is the fact that the armrests only rotate if the metal button is pressed in. I cannot tell you how many times I've pulled my AndaSeat Fnatic gaming chair somewhere only to find that I had accidentally changed the armrest rotation in the process. So, this is a very happy change.

Kaiser Frontier: Comfort and lumbar support

I've long noted that AndaSeat's chairs are excellent at making the user sit up straight with great posture while still being comfortable and the same is true of the Kaiser Frontier XL. It comes with a lumbar pillow and neck pillow filled with the same foam as the cushion and wrapped in the same PVC leather. They are the perfect mixture of soft yet firm to help give my neck and back the support they need. 

The lumbar pillow is loose, which some people might not like, but I love the way it fits into the chair and slides up and down as I adjust the reclining mechanism. This way, it always slides into a position where my back needs it without me intentionally moving it. 

Now a warning for tall folks — when my six-foot-five husband sat in the chair, he did find that the neck pillow dug into his shoulders in an awkward way. However, this was remedied by removing the pillow from its intended position and then slipping it over the top of the chair to be a little higher than usual. Of course, you can always remove the neck and/or back pillows if you find you don't want to use them.

Thanks to the handy lever on the right side of the chair, I can easily recline up to 160 degrees back. While this obviously isn't fully parallel with the floor it is far back enough that I can consider taking a nap in the comfy chair. There is also a multi-tilt mechanism below the seat cushion that allows the Kaiser Frontier XL to lean back a bit more. I like this feature when I'm working at my desk, but I prefer a more rigid chair when playing a competitive game, which is why I'm happy that the mechanism can be locked into place to prevent it from leaning back in these scenarios.

It all works together for a very comfortable chair that I have been more than happy to sit in during my eight-hour workdays. In fact, I often forget that I'm testing a chair while sitting in it because it's such a cozy fit.

Kaiser Frontier: Competition

I love AndaSeat and really do think that they create the best gaming chairs you can get. So, if the Kaiser Frontier XL isn't exactly what you're looking for I recommend looking at AndaSeat's other offerings. As I said previously, I've assembled and tested dozens of these chairs and they're all made with quality materials for a comfortable sitting situation. For those looking to save some money the Phantom 3 is a fantastic option. You can get it covered in fabric or PVC leather in a number of different colors. It's designed to hold up to 200 pounds and offers great back support.

Of course, if you want the very best option that AndaSeat has to offer, I cannot recommend the Kaiser 3 XL enough. This is the chair that I use every day. It helps me sit up straight thanks to the built-in adjustable lumbar support and magnetic neck pillow. Plus, the PVC leather is soft and comfortable to sit on. There are also fabric options for those that would prefer that with nine different color variants to choose from. It can hold up to 395 pounds and is very roomy for average to tall people. 

Outside of AndaSeat, another excellent gaming chair is the SecretLab Titan Evo. It's around the same caliber and price range as the Kaiser 3 XL. You can get it in either a quality leatherette or a soft fabric material, both of which look very classy. It will provide you with excellent back support in a sturdy frame that can handle 285 pounds. 

Kaiser Frontier: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if...

• You want a chair that will last for a long time. 
• You're looking for a chair that can hold a lot of weight.
• You want something that offers good back support while still being comfortable.

You should not buy this if...

• You're looking for something less expensive.
• You'd like a chair in a different color. 
• You don't need a chair that can hold this much weight.

I cannot stop gushing about the AndaSeat Kaiser Frontier XL. This is an absolutely wonderful gaming chair that looks just as beautiful as it is sturdy. The soft PVC leather looks very chic, and the chair can blend into any scenario whether you're looking for an office chair or a fun gaming den chair. What's more, it's very comfortable to sit in and will help you maintain better posture while using it. 

The biggest downside is that the chair is very expensive. While there are several cheaper chairs on the market, many aren't made nearly as well and will fall apart in a few years. Meanwhile, AndaSeat's amazing build quality will last much longer so it's more like an investment that will prevent you from having to purchase more chairs down the line. I highly recommend the Kaiser Frontier XL, but if it's not quite what you're looking for then AndaSeat has plenty of other options for you to consider as well. 

What you need to know

• Secretlab has collaborated with Blizzard Entertainment to create the Diablo 4 Collection Titan Evo chairs.
• There are two special editions available, in two sizes, the Lilith Edition and the Inarius Edition.
• The chairs are priced at $624 for the Regular size, and $674 for XL.

The gates of Hell are opening, on the sixth day of the sixth month to be precise, with the long-awaited launch of Diablo 4 on June 6. We knew we were in for some epic merchandise, but nothing could prepare us for how fiery this Secretlab and Blizzard Entertainment collaboration would be.

Announced today, the SecretLab Diablo 4 Collection will feature two special edition chairs, designed to match the two main characters of the game, Inarius and Lilith. There will be limited quantities available in stock at launch.

The chairs will retail for $624 for the Regular size, and $674 for the XL. That might sound like a hell of a price, but that's a small price to pay for demonic devotion.

If you're not familiar with the Titan Evo chairs, we have previously reviewed the Titan Evo 2022 and scored it highly for its exceptionally robust design and premium feel.

Secretlabs also feature in our Best Gaming Chairs if you're in any doubt about their quality. So if you're also a huge fan of Diablo you'll want to get your hands, or should that be your butt, on these beautifully designed chairs. They are so comfortable, you’ll feel like you’re sitting on a cloud in the High Heavens. Or maybe a throne in the Burning Hells, depending on your preference.

The question remains though, when fighting your way through Sanctuary, to whom do you pledge your allegiance? Inarius or Lilith? Will you join the forces of light or darkness? The choice is yours, but hurry up, because these chairs will fly out of stock fast.

The Lilith Edition 

The Lilith Edition chair is designed for those who embrace Lilith’s return and seek to break free from their chains. It features a black Secretlab NEO Hybrid Leatherette upholstery with blood-red suede accents, adorned with the horned visage of the Blessed Mother wrought in intricate embroidery. Her wings extend to the front of the chair, taking on a membranous form echoing the ritual that summoned her back to Sanctuary.

The Inarius Edition

On the other hand, The Inarius Edition chair is designed for those who seek forgiveness and support the cause of the Cathedral of Light. It features a clean white design with gold accents, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The chair is also upholstered in NEO Hybrid Leatherette, which provides a comfortable yet supportive seating experience. The backrest features an intricate design inspired by Inarius himself, and his wings wrap around the design of the chair.

If you want to feel righteous, as you tear through the hellspawn in Diablo 4, this is the chair for you. 

More about the Secretlab Titan Evo Diablo Collection

Both chairs feature Secretlab’s proprietary Cold-Cure Foam mix, which provides excellent support and comfort during long gaming sessions. You won’t feel the heat of hell with this cool and cozy material. The 4D armrests are fully adjustable, allowing you to find your perfect position whether slaying demons or writing some emails. The chairs also come with a multi-tilt mechanism that lets you recline up to 165 degrees, and lean back like a true Lord of Hell.

The Titan Evo also comes in two sizes. They feature a sturdy metal frame that can support up to 285 pounds (130 kg) in the R and up to 395 pounds (180 kg) in the XL, and both are covered by a five-year warranty. The XL chair also has a wider seat base and backrest. You can choose the size that fits your body and style best.

This isn't the first time Secretlab have collaborated to make a special collection, in the past launching the Minecraft Titan Evo, a World of Warcraft edition and Cyperpunk 2077 to name a few, all of which we've rated highly. Even dogs and children aren't left out of their design ideas, so we're happy to them on the Diablo 4 marketing train with another, what we are sure will be, a quality piece of merchandise for Diablo 4 and gaming fans alike. 

Have you ever felt that gaming as a hobby just wasn't expensive enough? After spending a thruppence on your new RTX 4070 Ti upgrade for your rig, you may be left puzzling over where to spend all your hard-earned spare dollars. Well wonder no more, Porsche is here to lighten the load from both your feet and your wallet. To the tune of $2500 for their supreme gaming chair made in collaboration with RECARO.

You can check out the limited edition Porsche Gaming Chair here to see it from all its sexy angles, but is it worth the $2500 asking price? Porsche are definitely appealing to a niche market with this chair, and as an ode to the iconic and influential Porsche 911, there are only 911 of these chairs made. 

 Gaming PC deals: Dell | Walmart | Lenovo | Best Buy | HP | Amazon 

The RECARO x Porsche Gaming Chair comes in at the price of a few Porsche driving experience days, and for $2500 you can get the feeling of sitting in a Porsche seat at home, but we can't promise you it will make you any better at Forza Horizon. The main selling point appears to be it's 5D armrests, what that means we aren't sure. Height, depth, length, weight and passage to the fifth dimension?

For your $2500, you're mainly paying for a prestige item here, but it is of course a functioning gaming chair. The chair has an adjustable backrest, a max load capacity of 330 pounds, and is ergonomically optimized with firm lumbar support. Whether you're gaming or sat in your office making "vroom vroom" noises, you should be pretty comfy.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, this wasn't the most expensive we found in the accessory section on Porsche's website, if you really wanted to go the whole hog, and bankrupt, you could pair your new gaming chair with the 911 Soundbar 2.0 Pro, at the bargain price of $12000.

The chair itself does look well-made and will certainly appeal to collectors with its limited run. If you're in the market for a new gaming chair, and have a more modest budget, then perhaps give our Best Gaming Chairs a gander for some inspiration. If you're really intent on blowing $2500 feel free to buy each on the list.

In this technological age in which we all live, where many professions and pastimes require a more sedentary lifestyle, it is important to have a supportive, well-made, and ergonomic-friendly chair. Over the years, the design and manufacture of desk chairs have improved exponentially to suit everyone’s varied requirements for working or gaming for hours on end. Having had many chairs throughout my life both professionally and personally, I have found that today’s subject, the Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair suits my needs sufficiently without breaking the bank.

Founded in 2011, Sihoo is a renowned furniture and home furnishings corporation dedicated to creating innovative and affordable table sets, gaming chairs, and office chairs. The Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair lives up to its makers’ reputation as it features a slick design, high-quality ergonomics, a sturdy foundation, adjustment components that allow the user to customize it to suit their preferred comfort levels, and more properties that help it stand out amongst some of the best gaming chairs on the market.

Sihoo M57: Price and availability

The Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair is currently available for purchase on Amazon for $239.00 (US) and £309.99 (UK) and Sihoo’s official website (prices may vary). It comes in black or grey colored meshing, and you have the option of purchasing a chair with or without a foot pedal.

Sihoo M57: What you will like

There are many positive features to find in the Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair. For starters, it has a sleek, lightweight minimalist yet effective design aesthetic compared to more popular, bulkier office/gaming chairs. It is extremely comfortable to sit on, giving support to both your back and neck areas by way of adjustable lumbar and neck rest support mechanisms. 

In addition, the chair also incorporates an effective recliner-tilt feature you can use during rest periods and a gas-powered lift system to adjust the chair’s height to your preference.

The breathable, aluminum mesh upholstery is a creative design choice as it allows your skin to breathe more easily as perspiration does not build up as it does with traditional, leatherette-style seat coverings. This feature can potentially be useful during hotter weather as the mesh holes will allow cooler air from fans or air conditioning units to circulate around your body, providing much-needed comfort and relief in the heat.

Lastly, the Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair has a stable, aluminum base that can hold up to 330lb in weight capacity, making it tough and durable in both an office or home environment. The base’s five caster wheels are silent when you move the chair around, ensuring you don’t disturb anyone around you.

Sihoo M57: What needs work

In my opinion, there isn’t much to complain about with this chair as I found it both comfortable and functional. If I had to make a constructive critique, it would be that the armrests could benefit from more padding as they feel quite hard on the elbows after a lengthy period of time.

Another aspect that could be improved upon is the color of the mesh for the upholstery as currently only black or grey mesh options are being produced. A wider variety of color options would help the chair look more visually striking and add personality to the user’s personal space or office décor preferences. 

Sihoo M57: The competition

The Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair is great value for money. However, if you are looking for alternative chairs that fulfill the same needs, albeit at steeper prices, the market has plenty of options available. 

One such example is the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 series chairs which are premium-grade products that feature extremely sturdy builds, magnetic connectors to fit in extra accessories, and great ergonomics, while also being easy to assemble. Although the main drawback is that Titan Evo 2022 chairs are more expensive as they cost somewhere between $500-$600 depending on the online retailer.

Another excellent alternative is the Razor Iskur chair. This product features a variety of lumbar adjustability options, a stylish design, wonderful levels of comfort, and a long life span. However, it is quite pricy at around $479.00 currently on Amazon and the chair’s frame doesn’t accommodate people of greater stature.

Sihoo M57: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if:

• You want an above-average quality chair at an affordable price.
• You want a chair that can be customized to suit your sitting posture.
• You want a comfy chair for long periods of time playing games or typing at a desk.

You shouldn't buy this if:

• You want a chair with more comfortable armrests.
• You want a chair with more color options.

Overall, I was very satisfied with this product. It was very relaxing to sit on, the build quality is outstanding, and the well-crafted ergonomics ensure against back pain after many hours of prolonged use. Many of its components can be adjusted to suit your body type and preferred sitting position. It was also very easy to assemble as it came with an informative instruction manual and a specific tool kit for the job was enclosed.

While I would have preferred more color options for the mesh and slightly more padded armrests, those are minor complaints in the grand scheme of things and don’t detract from the chair’s overwhelming positives.

In summary, if you want a high-quality and affordable chair that will provide you comfort for extended periods of time while working or playing games, then I highly recommend the Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair.

Secretlab has announced all-new footrests to accompany its premium gaming chairs, designed to improve comfort and promote proper posture. Both the PlushCell, a dense but squishy slab, and the Professional Footrest, an adjustable steel option with swappable covers, are set for release in March and June 2023 for $89 and $199, respectively.

The biggest lab secret was that they had already sent a Footrest Pro sample about a week before this announcement, so I could try it out and see if it'll be worth the asking price. They've impressed us in the past with comfortable chairs, as seen in the Titan Evo 2022 review, so I had high hopes that a follow-up footrest would be just as comfortable, if necessary.

Treating my legs to proper ergonomics

This fancy dynamic footrest is essentially a metal plate with an adjustable angle, except you don't have to get off your chair and reach under a desk to find a latch every time you feel like a change. The one-step adjustment pedal sits at the top end of the chassis and needs only a slight push to release the internal locks, making it easy to find a comfy position for whatever I'm doing.

Let's be clear that I don't claim to practice good posture; I usually sit like a shrimp with my legs mangled up in racing pedals because I'm too lazy to remove them from under my desk after gaming. When Secretlab reached out to demo this new professional footrest, I told them the same thing, which could be why they expedited a sample. Something about spending years resting my feet on pedals has the +15° angle feeling pretty natural on this, so it's nice to have the option to tilt freely.

Naturally, the whole point of a footstool is to promote proper ergonomics, and the exact position best suited to you will depend on a few factors. I measure at an almost Hobbit-sized 5' 7", so I usually aim for the shorter options when shopping for the best gaming chairs to try and keep my feet firmly planted somewhere close to the ground. Over time, I've wanted to raise my legs, usually in ridiculous positions, but still raised. Spending time with the professional footrest made it clear why.

You can disable the adjustment pedal entirely with a rear-facing switch on the footrest, resulting in more dynamic angle changes via a firm press of either leg. There's still enough resistance to prevent the rest from moving accidentally, but I can't see myself keeping it this way; the static mode is much more comfortable when I shift around in my chair.

Still, it's nice to have the option, even if it does mean an adventure underneath your desk to find the switch. A total of 30° of movement feels good under the feet, especially if you're as prone to fidgeting or constant shifting as I am. Rather than getting up every few minutes to shake off the feeling of cramping legs, a quick push of the adjustment pedal is all I need to get the blood flowing again. Nice.

Adjustable for me (the short guy)

If I wasn't self-conscious about using a footstool as a short guy already, Secretlab throws in some additional height-extending feet that lift everything up by another 20mm, and yes, I used them. I had tried using the professional footrest for a couple of days without the extenders, instead gaining the extra height by keeping it at the most extreme angles, but it's better for me to use them.

At least with the little plastic boosters, I can keep my feet completely flat at the horizontal setting, and it feels like I'm being treated to fancy ergonomics. There's usually so much focus on choosing the right chair that I hadn't properly considered how much weight was being put onto my thighs and battered feet. Still, the angled-back position feels most comfortable for me, and that's the one shown in practically every promotional footrest image advertised by Secretlab anyway.

CloudSwap customization

The $199 asking price still stings at this point, and the professional footrest needs something unique to convince a sale from any gamer. Like its recent chairs, CloudSwap is part of Secretlab's adventure into hot-swappable parts for footrests. Switching out the standard top surface, which feels almost like a yoga mat with PU coating, for one of the two current alternatives can suit some particular scenarios.

A plush memory foam replacement matches the soft materials in Secretlab's PlushCell cheaper footrest, but there's a much more exciting alternative; a heated footrest top. Keeping your toes toasty in the winter or generally cooler climates, the electric-powered heating coils maintain a temperature of your choice, from 95 to 158°F. It'll cost you another $99 for the privilege, but as someone who hates being cold, I can see the attraction.

Coming soon

The Secretlab Premium Footrest with Plushcell memory foam is available for an $89 pre-order with estimated shipping starting by March 6, 2023. It's the second half of new additions to its footrest range and provides the most straightforward method for raising your feet on something comfortably ergonomic.

On the other hand (or foot, as it were), the Secretlab Professional Footrest with CloudSwap technology is set for June 2023. Still, you can register your interest and receive an email notification when they're available. Lucky me, I've had a pre-release sample a few months early and have enjoyed proper posture for a change.

The best gaming chair must be comfortable and adjustable enough to satisfy all-day productivity and all-night gaming sessions. Plenty of models are available at this point, with various chairs looking suspiciously similar with wildly differing prices, so it can be tough to know when they're genuinely worth the money.

Vertagear's new SL5800 is a mid-sized option in different colors and joins their new 800 range. They're all designed to maximize ergonomics and keep your body healthy during lengthy gaming sessions or anything else. I'm certainly due a change after spending the last few years sitting on a bargain-basement office chair that has caused me some issues, so I'm willing to critique this premium offering on behalf of gamers with bad posture everywhere.

Vertagear SL5800: Price, availability, and specs

Vertagear sells the SL5800 gaming chair through its official website for $419 MSRP. The chair is packaged with a quick start guide and the necessary parts for construction in a box alongside a pet hair remover. Recommended for persons up to 250lbs and 6ft tall, the SL5800 is available in carbon black, midnight blue, burgundy red, midnight green, black and white, or midnight purple. Vertagear provided a midnight purple sample for this review but did not see the article's contents before publishing.

Vertagear SL5800: Construction

The SL5800 arrives in a gigantic box, so plan ahead. Seriously, I didn't realize how big the packaging would be and made the mistake of constructing this chair on the ground floor of my house before trying to carry it up a narrow staircase — bad idea. Fortunately, it's laughably easy to construct, and it barely took 20 minutes to read the instructions and have a fully assembled chair before suffering the job of hauling it upstairs.

You get everything you need in a neat little shoebox-sized case of accessories, including a helpful tool for screwing the backrest into the base. The wheels pop into the base frame with a firm push, and it's almost impossible to put something in the wrong place. The walkthrough guide is clear as day, with diagrams accompanied by various languages that I barely skimmed over; you likely won't need them but keep it handy anyway.

The only caution I could make is when you're ready to screw in the backrest, don't completely tighten it one at a time. A small warning toward the end of the manual mentions this, and you can see the threads pull tight as you begin to turn the tool. Just as you would with any delicate computer component, attach the screws about halfway on opposite sides, then tighten each side evenly, and you'll be fine.

Vertagear even throws in a handheld pet hair remover. It made me chuckle at first as if it were some unnecessary addon, but building a gaming chair on the living room floor next to my dog made it immediately obvious why they included it. The material on the SL5800 loves clinging to pet hair. Turning over the seat to remove the bolt screws had me realize how true that is. It's a fur magnet that happens to be super easy to build, consider yourselves warned.

Vertagear SL5800: Features and comfort

The SL5800 is a mid-size offering from Vertagear, technically suited for persons taller than myself, but I still found it supremely comfortable. That said, it's rated for anyone up to 6ft tall, so I technically still fit into that category. I'll mention that all the time I tested this chair, I kept it at the lowest elevation possible to keep my feet flat on the ground, so consider the SL3800 if you're on the shorter side for more maneuverability.

Whichever model you choose, there's a considerable amount of jargon used to market the materials used on these chairs, so let's figure out what they really mean.

First up is the 'ContourMax' lumbar, which isn't a fancy title for adjustable supports, but rather the construction of the lower backrest. Simply put, it's a clever combination of memory foam and the flexible modules underneath. It's a shame to miss out on a folding lumbar curve, but if I sit with proper posture, the SL5800 hugs my spine and doesn't feel unusual.

It's all coated with 'HygennX,' described as coffee ground nanotechnology made to control potential odors, which isn't something I expected to discover, but I'll take it. I love coffee, so why not put it in my chair?

For the seat itself, the 'VertaAir' design is tricky to pronounce but a delight to sit on. You can't tell from looking at it, but eight hexagon-shaped pillars are inside that circulate air within the cushion. The aim is to relieve pressure from your back, and it seems to do the trick.

It certainly doesn't feel lumpy or uncomfortable in any area, so I'm happy. The same materials run along the entirety of the chair, including the microfiber upholstery that attracts every strand of hair around you.

When Vertagear offered a choice of samples, I naturally opted for the closest pick to the Windows Central color theme and ended up with purple. At least one section of our iconic logo matches the base, and the yellow stitching looks beautiful as it pops around the edges and comes close.

If you're more of a fan of monochrome chairs, there are plenty of SL5800 variants to choose but seeing the midnight purple in person has me thinking I should buy matching accessories. The colored versions look fantastic up close, but a purple neck cushion would have been amazing to complete the look.

As with the rest of the SL5800, the fancy '4D' armrest title refers to the four directions of movement. It's standard for gaming chairs to have rests that move vertically, but the inward/outward rotation quickly became my favorite feature. Although they don't move further than one notch in or out, it's a perfect position for sitting with a joypad to play a few hours of Rocket League or anything else.

There is a slight amount of wobble in the armrests, but it doesn't pivot around when I lean my elbows on them to type, at least on my sample. No combination seems to stop the slight movement, but it's no serious issue. Having so many points of articulation means this kind of shifting isn't surprising, and it never bothered me during regular use.

A standard adjustment lever locks the backrest, but a dedicated handle controls the permanent lean angle. I can't say I found much use for the almost horizontal position, but it's a common feature of modern gaming chairs. Enjoy your naps, sleepy gamers.

An optional RGB upgrade kit is available to fit into the gaps of the headrest and retails for $250 MSRP. I can't comment on its quality, but the ability to display a personalized logo surrounded by reactive lighting is a neat idea. I'm not sure it's worth the asking price since the SL5800 would cost close to $700 with the kit included, but you'll have to decide whether it's worth paying that much for something you'll hardly ever see.

It'll appeal to live streamers with cameras facing them, showing off the RGB to an audience, but I wouldn't be tempted to spend the cash on something so niche. At least the kit is optional, saving the SL5800 from an inflated price. Still, I only reviewed the chair, so I can't influence your RGB decision by a tremendous amount.

Vertagear SL5800: The competition

The Secretlab Titan Evo has evolved into one of our favorite gaming chairs, winning a near-perfect score in our Titan Evo 2022 review for the most recent variant. It's an expensive alternative when you consider the $650 MSRP, but it's dropped as low as $500 during sales in the past. It comes close enough to the Vertagear SL5800 to warrant a price jump, given the inclusion of adjustable lumbar support and an overall premium feel.

Another long-standing recommendation still applies from our original Razer Iskur review, proving to be worth the $500 launch price. It's often listed for around $450 and still includes adjustable lumbar support, trumping the SL5800 in at least one category. If you want a cheaper alternative, the Razer Enki X is one of the best value chairs that sits between the office and gaming style, still used by our editor-in-chief Daniel Rubino to this day.

Vertagear SL5800: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if ...

• You're looking to improve your posture with an ergonomic upgrade.
• You want a stylish gaming chair with vibrant color themes.

You shouldn't buy this if ...

• You have pets or other sources of loose hair.
• You don't fit into the intended height and weight targets.

There's little reason for me to complain about the SL5800, especially when the sample looked so cool in the vibrant midnight purple with yellow stitching. It's not for everyone, but that's why Vertagear offers the extended 800 range with variants made for people of different heights and weights. Technically this model isn't even aimed at me, intended for taller users instead, but it's been adjustable enough to feel comfortable for all-day use.

I have no reason not to recommend it since it feels appropriately priced, and I haven't discovered any discomfort after using it for a week. The only downside is its affinity for attracting pet hair, but Vertagear included a solution in the box, so I can't hold that against them. Its hardest battle will be competing against the stiff competition and could be the only thing holding it back from topping our roundup of the best gaming chairs, but the SL5800 is still an excellent option.

If you were lucky enough to pick up a new gaming rig on Black Friday, you can prepare for shipment of your new desktop by setting up your gaming space. Not only can you complete the aesthetic of your new gaming PC with coordinating and mood-inspired lighting, but you can also add ergonomics and comfort to extended gaming sessions with gaming accessories, desks, and chairs that are made for comfort. These are some of the best sales we found on gaming accessories and furniture to complete your game room setup. 

Sit-stand gaming desks

A sit-stand desk may be the ticket to help with sluggishness and get the blood flowing between long sessions of game play. In addition to helping you stretch those cramped legs, you can also pair these desks with a compact treadmill, for example, and game while walking in place to get some exercise in. And the nice part is that many of these desks will fit in with most home, office, or home office decor, so it's not just for gamers. 

A desk with RGB lighting support

Go for a pro look with Branch Furniture

A seat of comfort

Whether you need a new gaming chair or upgrade your task chair, the proper seat can deliver plenty of ergonomic benefits and help reduce strain on your body. Pair one of these chairs with your new sit-stand desk for maximum comfort. 

Add comfort and support your posture

The X-Project is versatile enough for gaming or work

Add a leg-rest with the affordable AndaSeat

Bling those lights

Add some mood lighting to your game room with customizable LED lights that will enhance and complement the RGB lighting coming from your new rig. We found some solid discounts on smart lighting controls for Cyber Monday, and here are some of our top picks:

Add mood lighting to your walls

Add discrete light bars around your room

Wrap light strips behind a desk, monitor, or TV

Don't forget to immerse yourself in the action

While these smart furniture and fixtures are there to help amp up the experience in your home office or game room, they are not meant to distract you from the content on your screen. Whether you need a new 4K monitor, a new headset to communicate and collaborate with your teammates, or a pair of solid noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions, you can find plenty of deals for Cyber Monday to accessorize your gaming setup. Check out some of the best deals for keyboards and mice, racing wheels, and more in our roundups. 

What you need to know

• Secretlab has announced a collaboration with Lucasfilm and unveiled two new gaming chairs styled after the popular Star Wars franchise, available now in the US and Canada.
• Both chairs are based on the award-winning Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 model and are available in sizes S, R, and XL.
• In white, the Stormtrooper edition features a leatherette covering with black textured highlights, including the Imperial crest and an engraving written in the fictitious Aurebesh language.
• In black, the Empire edition features a dark leatherette covering with ribbing based on Darth Vader's armor, alongside a red Imperial crest and another Aurebesh engraving.

Based on the fantastic Titan Evo 2022 model, two special-edition variants just announced by Secretlab and Lucasfilm feature a collaboration blending the theme of a galaxy far, far away with supremely comfortable gaming chairs. Perfect for franchise fans who lean into the dark side, each model features theming to represent the Galactic Empire, including the iconic white armor worn by stormtroopers and sinister black adorned by the intimidating Darth Vader.

"Star Wars-inspired Secretlab chairs have been one of the most highly requested collaborations from our community and Star Wars fans alike, and it’s amazing for us to now be a part of Star Wars’ 45-year legacy with this new collection," says Alaric Choo, co-founder of Secretlab.

We opted for minimalist designs in our chairs, identifying the coolest elements of the Empire’s aesthetics and imagining what would fit naturally and tastefully into any Star Wars-themed home setup. I think we’ll be seeing some really impressive creations from fans with them."

The Star Wars | Secretlab Stormtrooper edition exhibits the same shape as the Titan Evo 2022, stitched this time with a white leatherette and black ribbed textures peeking out along its side and rear to resemble the iconic armor worn by the same soldiers. An engraved black Imperial crest features on both the front and back, with glyphs printed on the rear in a fictitious language from the franchise.

"As stormtroopers trained to render total allegiance to the Emperor, it is only fitting that the Imperial Crest features prominently on the front and back of the Stormtrooper Edition. “Stormtrooper” in Aurebesh is also embroidered on the back, a nod to the most common written language used across the Star Wars galaxy."

The Star Wars | Secretlab Empire edition features black leatherette covered with red highlights for an ominous reference to the Empire and its leader, Darth Vader. Functionally identical to the white Stormtrooper edition, this dark version displays its patterned ribbing in a unique style and changes the Aurebesh engraving placement.

"The Aurebesh translation of “Empire” occupies the front edge of the chair, with textured ribbing reminiscent of Darth Vader’s armor marking the back of the chair — a gaming throne fit for those who choose to fulfill their destiny."

Secretlab dropped hints at the Lucasfilm collaboration with a subtle Instagram post yesterday, building excitement with fans of Star Wars and the established gaming chair manufacturer. Both chairs in the Star Wars | Secretlab Imperial collection are available now in sizes S, R, and XL in the US and Canada, with more regions coming soon. If someone you know leans toward the dark side, pick up this special edition of one of the best gaming chairs ever made for the perfect holiday gift.

Check our Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review for a breakdown of why it's the perfect evolution of an already fantastic gaming chair. Each themed variant features the same high-quality ergonomics and comfort you would expect from this award-winning company.

The Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is easily one of the best gaming chairs you can get your hands on. As much of a fan as I am of Secretlab's products, though, there's always been one major downside: Once you choose a design, you're stuck with it. That's a shame when Secretlab is always coming out with new, interesting, branded designs featuring everything from World of Warcraft to Game of Thrones and logos from popular esports teams.

One thing Secretlab has always leaned into, however, is customization. Beyond the different designs you can pick from, the company's chairs are widely lauded precisely because they mix comfort with being highly adjustable. Thankfully, the company leaned even harder into this aspect with the recent launch of its Skins line, which gives you a way to shake up the look of your chair without too much of a fuss.

I recently got a chance to try one of these skins out on my own Titan Evo 2022 and the whole experience has been pretty nice. There are some minor qualms, to be sure, but this definitely ain't just a simple skin. Let's go hands on.

The first thing you'll notice when opening the box is that this is a dead-simple installation. There are only two pieces to the whole skin: one for the backrest and one for the seat. Secretlab includes a handy set of instructions to show you exactly how each piece should go over your chair as well.

The backrest piece simply slides over the top of the chair and is fastened with three zippers that bring the whole thing together in the back. You're helped along by a set of straps that help you easily pull the front piece of the skin through the back where it meets the seat. Once you've got it in place, you simply close the zippers and you're done.

The seat is similarly simple, but without the zippers. In their place, the seat skin is held in place with a set of plastic buckles that meet underneath the chair to stay out of sight. Once you've added the skin to the seat and pulled each portion tight, you clasp the buckles, tighten them with the straps, and you're good to go.

The whole thing took me under ten minutes to set up from start to finish. Once everything is secure, there are definitely some small areas where you have to stretch or adjust the cover to make sure it's properly in place. One nice feature I appreciated is that the skin features rubber cutouts that go over the knobs on the side of the chair.

Once completely set up, it's really hard to tell that you've added a skin to the chair unless you look hard at some of the close details. For example, there are some areas around the angles of the chair where the skin doesn't quite line up correctly, but they're few and far between. I've also wondered if this is the sort of detail that will go away over time as the skin is stretched out a bit longer.

My Titan Evo 2022 is a leather chair, but adding the skin to it makes it really look and feel like it's one of Secretlab's SoftWeave chairs. The skin isn't going to necessarily fix any issues you may have with leather, like the breathability, but it is a nice addition to have if you've grown tired of any sticking during particularly sweaty gaming sessions.

The biggest barrier I think most people will have to overcome here is the price. Secretlab is selling skins for the Titan Evo 2022 from $169.99. That's a pretty hefty price for simply shaking up the look and feel of your chair. However, it's a heck of a lot cheaper than throwing down around $500 for a whole new chair.

Whether that's worth it is up to you. However, what you get for the money is a form-fit skin that can easily breathe life into your chair with a new design. At launch, Secretlab has 16 such designs either immediately available or up for preorder. The one I've been testing out is the "Mint Green" colorway, but there's everything from "Frost Blue" to designs themed around Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher, and Jinx from League of Legends. I have no doubt the company will keep releasing fresh designs into the future as well.

If you do have a Titan Evo 2022, the skins are worth checking out if you've been aching for a new look. For $169.99, you can snag one of the more basic colors available. Designs that feature licensed franchises cost a bit more, coming in at $199.99.

What you need to know

• Secretlab recently launched skins for its Titan Evo 2022 gaming chairs.
• The skins are made with SoftWeave fabric and can be installed in a few minutes.
• Secretlab Skins start at $170 and cost up to $199 for branded designs.

Secretlab recently launched skins for its premium gaming chairs. Secretlab Skins are available in a variety of colors and designs, allowing you to customize your seat. They're available for small, regular, and XL sizes of the Titan Evo 2022 gaming chair.

The SoftWeave Skins share designs with some of Secretlab's most popular chairs. The covers are machine washable, which is a big benefit if you regularly eat or drink at your desk. The company even shares instructions for washing the Secretlab Skins on its website.

There are seven basic colors available, which cost $169. Branded skins cost $199. You install the Secretlab Skins by placing them around your chain and zipping them closed. The skins come in two parts, one for the top part of the chair and the other for the bottom. Secretlab says that they are interchangeable in under three minutes.

While Secretlab makes some of the best gaming chairs, those seats are rather expensive. That's especially true if you're happy with the overall design of your gaming chair but just want a different design. Secretlab Skins let you customize the look of your Titan EVO 2022 for much less than buying a separate chair.

The skins also provide the benefit of not having a bunch of gaming chairs crowding your home or office.

We'll have a quick review of the Secretlab Skins in the near future, including some comparisons to Secretlab's most popular chairs.