Gaming chairs can be more than just ergonomically designed chairs with a colorful exterior. These chairs can be modern marvels of technology, with all manner of integrated add-ons and accessories. Some advanced gaming chairs, for instance, feature integrated USB port hubs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Some gaming chairs come equipped with dedicated USB ports or USB port hubs, the latter allowing multiple simultaneous connections.
- These USB ports are primarily used to charge gadgets, such as smartphones, tablets, portable gaming consoles, and others.
- You can also use the USB port on a gaming chair to power a third-party accessory, such as a fan or a pair of stereo speakers.
What is a USB Port?
A USB port is your traditional connection port on a PC, gaming console, and related device. These ports offer a number of convenience features. A USB port hub is a standalone device that includes a number of USB ports. This is one of the reasons why a gaming chair is expensive.
Uses for the USB Ports on Gaming Chairs
There are a number of uses and benefits to choosing a gaming chair with a built-in USB port or even an integrated USB port hub. Here are just a few of the potential uses of this technology.
Charging Gadgets
One of the primary functions of having a USB port built-in to a gaming chair is charging external devices. The gaming chair itself, after all, will likely be directly plugged into a power outlet. This will allow it to transmit power and energy to the USB port. You can use this port to charge up phones, tablets, portable gaming consoles, e-readers, and just about anything else you can think of. Ensure that the height of your gaming chair is adjusted well so that you access most gadgets you regularly use, like the phone, when it is charging. Making regular use of this feature will increase your electricity bill, but the difference should be negligible.
Insider Tip
One of the primary functions of having a USB port built-in to a gaming chair is charging external devices.
Using Third-party Devices
There are many third-party gadgets and devices that are purpose-built to plug into a gaming chair’s USB port or USB port hub. If your particular chair lacks integrated stereo speakers, for instance, you can typically plug a pair of third-party speakers into a USB port, thus eliminating the need for a Bluetooth connection. Other common accessories include fans, LED lights, vibrational mechanisms, and many more. There are also many massage devices that can plug into a chair’s USB port, which can then be aligned on the seatback to give the user a nice massage as they game. As a warning, some of these third-party accessories can be on the expensive side.
VR Rigs
One of the newer applications for a gaming chair’s integrated USB port hub is plugging in the various components of a VR headset rig. This can include the VR headset itself, 3D headphones, various controllers, accessories, and add-ons. Virtual reality is slowly but surely becoming a massive segment of the gaming industry, thanks to companies such as Oculus and Vive.
Insider Tip
If your particular chair lacks integrated stereo speakers, for instance, you can typically plug a pair of third-party speakers into a USB port, thus eliminating the need for a Bluetooth connection.
F.A.Q.
Is the seat height on a pedestal-mounted gaming chair adjustable?
Not typically, as adjusting the seat height could conflict with the components that make up the pedestal mount. We recommend purchasing and using a dedicated footrest.
How do I prevent frequency bleeding in a room full of wireless game chairs?
This is a tough one, as frequency bleeding in the above scenario is extremely common. Try to encase the chair’s wireless transmitter in a metal box.
Can I get a personalized or custom-made gaming chair?
Many companies offer full customization options on their web portal.
STAT: 99% of ergonomic brands recommend a mesh back when it comes to a gaming chair. (source)
