Modern gaming chairs tend to be ergonomically designed, meaning they are manufactured to adhere to the natural curvature of the human spine and to provide comfort and support when necessary. In other words, the best gaming chairs are built to boast plenty of adjustability options including the armrest.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Gaming chairs typically include many adjustable components, including armrests.
- When picking a chair based on its armrests, look for durability and maximum adjustability.
- As for properly adjusting a pair of armrests, find a comfortable and gentle position for your arms.
What is an Armrest?
When it comes to a gaming chair, an armrest is, well, a place for you to rest your arms as you sit on the chair. Not every gaming chair features an armrest, so make sure any potential purchase has one if you so desire. You can adjust the angle of the seat using the tilt, learn how the tilt functions in the gaming chair.
Tips on Choosing and Adjusting an Armrest
There are plenty of different gaming chairs out there and plenty of differently designed armrests. Below are some general tips and guidelines to help you pick the right chair and armrest for you and some information on how best to adjust that armrest for maximum comfort and postural health.
Maximum Adjustability
If you really want to make the most out of your gaming chair, make sure the armrest included is highly adjustable. Generally speaking, armrests can be adjusted within various dimensions. A 1D armrest can only be adjusted in a single direction. A 2D armrest can be adjusted in two directions, typically up and down. A 3D armrest brings this total to three directions, up, down, and forward. The most adjustability you can find with an armrest is the much-vaunted 4D armrest, which can be adjusted in any direction in physical space. 4D armrests are the best option for most consumers, as they allow for supreme adjustability. However, gaming chairs equipped with 4D armrests tend to be on the expensive side.
Insider Tip
Generally speaking, armrests can be adjusted within various dimensions.
Durable Components
When it comes to a gaming chair’s armrests, you will want to err on the side of caution when it comes to the components. In other words, pick a chair with well-made armrests that have not been cheaply thrown together. Look for armrests made from high-grade components, such as aluminium alloy, plastic resin, and more. This may increase the overall price of the chair, but it will be worth it in the end. Read this guide to learn how you can connect to your gaming chair’s bluetooth features.
How to Adjust the Armrests
Each human body is different, so the armrest adjustment process will be different. Generally speaking, you should adjust the armrests so that your arms are gently resting on them in a comfortable manner. You should not be straining at all to reach or lay upon these armrests.
Insider Tip
Pick a chair with well-made armrests that have not been cheaply thrown together.
F.A.Q.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful medical condition that develops at the base of the hand. Sitting improperly with your palms resting on a desk or keyboard can help cause this condition.
How is CTS treated?
There are a number of treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, including the wearing of wrist splints, massage and physical therapy.
What is a gaming chair headrest?
A headrest on a gaming chair is an adjustable component where users can rest their heads during a stretch.
STAT: In 2003, the U.S. Department of Labor reported that, on average, carpal tunnel syndrome has caused 23 missed working days, costing $2 billion a year, with 3.7 percent of their adult population suffering from CTS. (source)
