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AKRacing Gaming Chair Conclusion
AKRacing makes this statement on the product page of their website: “Most often it is the office workers and gamers that are the most vulnerable to various health disorders resulting from bad posture. Therefore it is worth finding solutions that will have a positive impact on your health. The best and most effective option is to offer an ergonomic chair by AKRACING. Prepared with great care and attention to detail ensures quick results.”
After sitting in an ultra-expensive office chair these past few years that was purpose-built for spinal support and circulatory health benefits, I’m dubious of claims made by the manufacturer. Usually something gets sacrificed, such as the soft seat-bottom comfort on my Embody chair. While AKRacing’s claimed health benefits are what some might consider ambitious, their gaming chair really does feel great to sit in all day… and only costs about 25% the price of my ‘ergonomic’ chair. The pillows are a nice added feature, which make it possible to customize positioning. In terms of performance I’m very pleased with the AKRacing gaming chair, and choose it over my others.
The AKRacing gaming chairs aren’t all looks, but the bright colors and stylish designs certainly do make them appear that way. I didn’t choose the style sent to me but it looks awesome, and with more than thirty different variations it’s hard to go wrong. I was a bit let down by the plain castor rollers that came on this model, but 4GamerGear.com is offering the 8-spoke racing wheels as an upgrade kit for $29.99. Most styles use color patterns that really stand out, and on the Rush model we received the red color-matched nylon stitching and soft pillows really help add contrast.
When a company uses metals instead of plastics, you’ve usually got yourself a good product. AKRacing utilizes a steel chair frame, steel gas pistol, and steel roller legs. Even the synthetic materials used to cover the cushions and solid wheels have been designed to last decades… or longer. AKRacing manufacturers a very well-built chair, and it’s clear they’re just as focused on function as they are with fashion.
Like most high-end chairs, AKRacing includes seat and armrest height adjustments. Unlike most others, you can adjust the backrest exactly like you would in a car. This is a unique feature not found on most chairs, and I’ve discovered it comes in very handy when I want to kick back and relax while reading. The pillows add to my comfort, but also help with posture. The lower pillow is soft enough to mold against your back, but firm enough to provide lumbar support.
As of April 2015, AKRacing gaming chairs are available in the USA through distribution. The AK-6016 RUSH model used in this review is currently selling for $299 online (4GamerGear | Amazon | Newegg). I’ve owned basic chairs that cost nearly as much with none of the features, and fancy chairs with the same features at four times the cost. Personally I think the AKRacing chairs are a solid value considering their construction and features, but the eye-catching looks really help them stand out and make a statement.
For the past few weeks I’ve sat in the AKRacing gaming chair for up to eight hours each day, sometimes as long as ten continuous hours when an important project keep me working late. Not once do I ever rise from the chair sore or aching, which is more than I can say for some of the purpose-built chairs I’ve used. The AKRacing chair is meant for gaming, but I spend much more time at the office these days… and the people I work with don’t have sports cars they can park behind their desk. It’s worth every bit of my comfort, and their envy.
Pros:
+ Colorful styles that demand attention and evoke jealousy
+ Very comfortable cushions and soft pillows for head and back
+ Adjustable reclining backrest mechanism just like in a car
+ Solid construction with steel frame, base, and parts
Cons:
– Racing wheels are an upgrade on this model
– May not comfortably fit extra-large people
Ratings:
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Performance: 9.25
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Appearance: 9.75
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Construction: 9.50
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Functionality: 9.00
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Value: 8.50
Final Score: 9.2 out of 10.
Excellence Achievement: Benchmark Reviews Golden Tachometer Award.
COMMENT QUESTION: Would you buy a AKRacing gaming chair, or use a basic office chair?
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