Gamers often sit in one spot for hours, which makes a good gaming chair a worthwhile investment. But with more people working from home, the question of whether that same chair can pull double duty has become a practical one. Do you really need both?
The answer depends on how you work, how long you sit, and what you need from a chair during a workday. This guide covers how gaming chairs and office chairs compare on ergonomics, design, and everyday use, and what to consider if you're deciding between the two.
Gaming chair vs office chair
| Gaming chair | Office chair | |
| Ergonomic support | Good, optimised for reclined postures | Strong, optimised for upright working postures |
| Adjustability | Seat height, tilt, armrests | Seat height, tilt, lumbar, armrests, seat depth |
| Aesthetics | Bold, high-back, bucket seat profile | Understated, professional, workplace-ready |
| Durability | Built for long sessions | Built for daily commercial use |
| Price range | Mid to high, premium for design features | Wide range, investment in ergonomic performance |
What gaming chairs and office chairs have in common
Office chairs and gaming chairs are built for different audiences, but they have more in common than the marketing suggests. Here are some of the key areas where the two overlap.
Both are designed for long hours
Both chair types prioritise ergonomics because they're built for people who spend a lot of time in one position. Adjustable height, armrests, and lumbar support are standard features across both, designed to keep you comfortable over extended sessions.
Both accommodate different body types and are designed to enhance wellbeing and reduce the risks of aches and strains from prolonged sitting. Occupational Physiotherapist Dave Hall explores this in his guide to ergonomic gaming chairs, noting that the spine doesn't distinguish between work and play when it comes to the effects of sustained sitting.
Both are built to last
Office and gaming chairs are built to handle everyday use. Quality components enable easy movement, from swivelling and leaning to typing and gaming, while sturdy frames ensure longevity and stability. Mesh, fabric, and leather options are available across both categories, each suited to different comfort preferences and environments.
Both offer meaningful adjustability
Gaming and office chairs feature customisable options for different preferences and body types. From adjustable seat height and tilt angles to swivel capabilities, users of an office chair or gaming chair can tailor their seating to their needs.
The Buro Force features advanced ergonomics.
Where office chairs and gaming chairs differ
There are also plenty of differences between an office chair and a gaming seat, and they go beyond looks.
Design and aesthetics
Design is one of the clearest differences between the two types of chairs. Office chairs have a more professional and understated look, often with a minimalist design meant to blend into an office environment.
Gaming chairs are known for their eye-catching appearance, often resembling sports car seats. They typically feature bold colour schemes and sharp lines.
How each chair supports your posture
Each chair type is designed with the end user in mind. Office chairs are engineered for functionality and practicality, with a focus on supporting upright working postures over long periods. For a deeper look at what that means in practice, our guide to ergonomic chairs covers the key features to look for.
Gaming chairs also have ergonomic features but are optimised for a more reclined, immersive posture. They can include headrests, additional padding, and other features designed to enhance comfort during longer gaming sessions.
How pricing compares
Specialist gaming chairs tend to be more expensive than office desk chairs. The additional features and design elements mean gaming chairs are usually sold at a higher price point. Office chairs offer a more accessible option without compromising on ergonomic performance.
Should you use a gaming chair for work?
You already have a gaming chair and wonder whether you need a separate office chair. It depends on your circumstances, but there are a few practical considerations worth thinking through.
- If your work involves long hours of focused tasks like writing, calls, and presentations, an office chair is a better fit. Office chairs are optimised for upright working postures and provide the adjustable support that holds up over a full day at a desk.
- If you're a regular gamer, it's worth thinking about wear. Using your gaming chair for both work and play effectively doubles its daily use. Given that quality gaming chairs represent a significant investment, keeping them dedicated to gaming makes practical sense.
- If budget is the deciding factor, a gaming chair can work as a short-term solution for occasional home working. For anyone spending five or more hours a day at a desk, a dedicated office chair is worth the investment in the long run.
Buro's ergonomic gaming chair range
If you're looking for a chair that takes gaming ergonomics seriously, the Buro X PowerA range is built around that brief. All three chairs are APA-endorsed and GREENGUARD Gold-certified, which puts them in a different category from most gaming chairs on the market.
The Buro X PowerA Sentinel
Features a breathable mesh back with Buro Dynamic Intelligence™ technology, which supports active posture and keeps you cool during longer sessions. Five-directional armrests add a further layer of adjustability. It's a strong option for anyone who runs warm or games in a poorly ventilated space.
The Buro X PowerA Navigator
Upholstered in PU leather with a fully adjustable backrest angle and 4D armrests, backed by a five-year guarantee. The backrest adjustment makes it particularly well suited to switching between gaming and desk work postures.
The Buro X PowerA Raider
Features an upholstered back and seat with moulded foam and bodyweight-activated lumbar support, backed by a three-year guarantee. For anyone who prioritises cushioned comfort over longer sessions, it's the most padded option in the range.
Each chair in the Buro x PowerA range is designed to hold up over years of regular use, with certified ergonomic performance that goes beyond what most gaming chairs offer. Whether you're setting up a dedicated gaming station or a home office that does both, there's an option built for the way you work and play.
Browse the full Buro range to find the right fit.
