Battle of the Gaming Chairs: Secretlab vs DXRacer

DXRacer and Secretlab are both highly respected gaming chair companies that have made significant impacts on the market. Secretlab is known for investing thousands of hours into research and development for each chair they produce, ensuring that they offer ergonomic improvements backed by scientific papers that validate their claims. DXRacer is also a pioneering company, having started out as a producer of luxury car seats before revolutionizing the gaming chair industry with their creation of the first racing-style gaming chair in 2006.

DXRacer has recently updated their lineup, moving closer to scientific ergonomics than ever before. It's possible that they have taken note of Secretlab's success in the PC chair game and have incorporated some of their techniques. However, is Secretlab really the gold standard, or can DXRacer's gaming chairs compete with the best?

As with any gaming chair, players should consider several factors before making a decision, including ergonomics, comfort, durability, style, and cost.

The comfort and ergonomics of a chair are the most critical factors to consider when determining whether it is suitable for an individual. The Secretlab Titan Evo is a luxurious choice that comes highly recommended, priced at $574 on Secretlab's website. Another excellent mid-range option is the DXRacer Craft Series Gaming Chair, priced at $449 on DXRacer's website.

Both DXRacer and Secretlab prioritize scientifically-backed ergonomics, resulting in similar support systems across their chairs. Secretlab's proprietary lattice automatically flexes to fit the natural curvature of the lumbar region, even as the user moves around in the seat. DXRacer's chairs have a similar system, but with a slightly wider lattice weave that only flexes when a manual side knob is turned.

Both companies offer plush, yet supportive cold-cured foam and feature wings along the sides of the back and seat, but with their own unique approach.

DXRacer has three gaming chairs designed to fit a variety of body types, all with top-of-the-line foam for maximum comfort during long gaming sessions. Each chair comes with a head pillow, available in either standard high-density memory foam or cooling gel memory foam (exclusive to the DXRacer Drifting series). The cooling memory foam is the better option for ultimate comfort.

Secretlab offers a more premium ergonomic design, but at a higher cost. Extras like head and lumbar pillows are available for purchase separately. Secretlab's headrest pillows are only available in memory foam, but are conveniently magnetic to eliminate the need for straps. To get cooling gel memory foam, users will need to purchase the Lumbar Pillow Pro from Secretlab.

Despite the absence of pillows, Secretlab gaming chairs provide supreme comfort and support good posture with their innovative designs that are powered by a long list of pending patents. The Secretlab team conducted pressure mapping tests to determine the optimal shape for their foam seats and to direct pressure along the back. This meticulous process has resulted in chairs that alleviate pressure on known pain points on the backs of the legs and along the spine.

When it comes to upholstery, both DXRacer and Secretlab offer a range of options to suit personal preferences. DXRacer provides PU leather, EPU leatherette, microfiber leather, and water-resistant fabric, while Secretlab offers NEO™ Hybrid leatherette and SoftWeave™ Plus fabric. Players who tend to overheat should opt for the breathable fabric options offered by both brands. Although both brands offer stain resistance, DXRacer takes it a step further by making the fabric completely waterproof, albeit at the cost of breathability when compared to Secretlab’s fabric. Similarly, Secretlab’s NEO Hybrid leatherette is comparable to DXRacer’s EPU leatherette, but is slightly softer and more durable.

In terms of comfort and ergonomics, DXRacer and Secretlab are evenly matched, but Secretlab offers a more premium experience that some gamers are willing to pay extra for.

DXRacer offers a wider range of chair shapes compared to Secretlab. While Secretlab only offers the Titan Evo chair, DXRacer provides three different chair shapes to choose from. These options include concave, convex, or contoured seats, as well as various chair heights and the option of a headrest pillow. While the Craft Series chairs offer a handful of fun, franchise, and esports related chair covers, the other DXRacer chairs only come in a few color options.

Secretlab gains some ground in this category, despite only having one chair shape available. They offer a wide range of designs to choose from, thanks to their partnerships with numerous popular game titles, esports and physical sports teams, and other franchises. Additionally, Secretlab frequently releases new chair designs that align with current trends, allowing users to easily refresh and revamp their style with Secretlab Skins.

Style preference is subjective, so there's no clear "winner" in this category. However, DXRacer provides a great option for players who prefer wider seats and headrest pillows, while Secretlab is ideal for avid fans who want their favorite franchise, such as Harry Potter or Overwatch 2, represented on their PC chair.

Customizability and durability are also important factors to consider when choosing a gaming chair.

DXRacer and Secretlab both offer premium gaming chairs with steel frames and cold-cure foam, providing durability and higher weight capacities. In addition to these major features, both brands offer adjustable seats, backs, height, and lumbar supports, with a warranty of 3-5 years, depending on the registration of an extended warranty. DXRacer provides a lifetime warranty on their steel frame, but only for a maximum weight of 275lbs, while Secretlab chairs can support up to 395lbs.

Regarding upholstery options, DXRacer offers budget PU leather and EPU leatherette, while Secretlab provides exceptionally breathable fabric options. Although DXRacer's fabric is water-resistant, it is less flexible and soft, and Secretlab's two upholstery options are among the best.

DXRacer's chairs have limited customizability, while Secretlab offers more options through additional purchases. Secretlab's customization choices, including memory foam pillows with different characters, memory foam armrests, and Secretlab Skins, can extend the life of a gaming chair by years. While DXRacer provides four memory foam lumbar pillows, higher-quality wheels, and an extendable footrest, they do not compare to Secretlab's selection.

Secretlab offers a wider range of upholstery options in terms of colors and designs compared to DXRacer, without the need for expensive add-ons. However, the higher price point of Secretlab's products, which can go up to $900, may not fit everyone's budget. Additionally, Secretlab's accessories tend to be 10-30% pricier than those of other brands. Despite the cost, Secretlab's products live up to their promise of quality and durability, making the investment worthwhile. DXRacer, on the other hand, offers a more affordable mid-range option, especially during frequent sales that drop prices as low as $350. While there are cheaper gaming chairs available, DXRacer's series remains a dependable choice for many gamers.

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Verdict

While Secretlab does offer a more premium product compared to DXRacer gaming chairs, it's important to note that having the very best materials doesn't always equate to the best choice for everyone. Bargain hunters and those in need of especially wide seats may find DXRacer chairs to be a better fit, as they offer slightly lower quality designs but at a more affordable price point.

Ultimately, the decision between Secretlab and DXRacer gaming chairs will depend on what each individual gamer is looking for. For those willing to invest in the absolute best chair and who prioritize customization options, Secretlab is the clear winner. However, for those looking for a deal or needing a larger seat size, DXRacer may be the better choice.

Our personal favorite from the Secretlab line? That's tough to say, as each chair offers unique features and benefits.

The Secretlab Titan Evo takes gaming chairs to the next level with its personalized support and exceptional performance. Using advanced engineering techniques, the chair boasts high-quality materials and professional-level ergonomics. The full-metal armrests with CloudSwap technology, 4-way lumbar support system, magnetic memory foam head pillow, and sculpted pebble seat base make for a functional and comfortable gaming experience. Plus, with the introduction of SKINS, you can customize the look and durability of the chair with various fabric options. The chair is height adjustable and can support up to 395 lbs, making it a great option for those between 5'11"-6'9". While the price may be steep at $574, it's worth the investment for the fantastic ergonomics and customization options.

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If you're looking for a comfortable gaming chair with a wide seat and good ergonomics, the DXRacer Formula Series is a solid option. The chair comes in eight different color choices and has a 135-degree tilt angle for maximum comfort. It also includes adjustable lumbar support and a headrest pillow. The design is sleek and simple, although there aren't many styles to choose from. The chair has a weight capacity of 275lbs and costs $449.

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Secretlab chairs come in different sizes and each size has a specific weight limit. The weight limits vary from 285lbs to 395lbs, ensuring that there is a suitable option for every individual. On the other hand, the cost of DXRacer chairs ranges from $450 to $650, depending on the style and any available discounts.

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The weight limit for standard DXRacer chairs is 355lbs, while the XL weight capacity is 375lbs. Size also matters when it comes to gaming chairs, as you'll want the top of the chair to just barely reach over the top of your head for full back support. Additionally, you should have 2-4 inches of space next to your hips for optimal comfort during gaming sessions. A good way to test this is by using your fists to ensure there is enough space.