How to choose the right ergonomic desk chair
Because our body shapes are all different, there is no “one size fits all”. How do you select the right ergonomic desk chair?
Over the past couple of years, more people have found themselves working and socialising from home. With the rise of hybrid work, many people have realised the importance of creating a comfortable and functional home office space. We have posted various blogs on the future of work, working remotely and setting up your home office. However, for those who enjoy PC gaming, a home office setup that accommodates both a professional office and an immersive gaming experience, can be the Holy Grail. Overall, a good gaming room and gaming chair setup can be important for both productivity and leisure, providing a comfortable and efficient environment for both work and play. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of having an all-in-one home office gaming setup and provide tips and ideas for creating one. How to Create and Protect Your Gaming Room Setup at Home.
A good PC gaming setup at home can be important for several reasons:
A home office gaming setup allows for a more efficient use of space. Rather than having a separate space for work and gaming, a combined setup can provide a multi-use space that can save time and effort. With a few adjustments, the same space that is used for work during your working hours can be transformed into a gaming space during your leisure time. How to make your work area healthy, comfortable and productive. Creating a home office space that is functional for both an office and gaming can be a bit of a challenge, but with careful planning you can create a space that meets both of your needs.
Select an area in your home for your PC gaming setup, preferably in a room that is separate from other living spaces. This allows you to concentrate and avoid distractions. This could be:
Make sure the area has enough space for your desk and gaming chair, and that it is well-ventilated with good lighting.
Don’t just go for looks!
A comfortable chair is essential for a home office gaming setup. Is a gaming chair better than an office chair? A chair that is specifically designed for extended periods of sitting can help prevent strain and injury to the back, neck, and shoulders. Home Office - How to select the best chair.
Here are the important factors to consider when choosing a chair for both work and gaming:
Sitting for prolonged periods of time is not good for you! Why we should sit less (NHS, UK)
Even if you have the most comfortable chair in the world, remember to take breaks and stretch regularly.
A dedicated desk that will provide plenty of space for your monitor, keyboard, and other peripherals is ideal. Choose one with built-in storage, add shelves or bookcases, or invest in storage boxes to keep your equipment and paperwork organised. Make sure the desk is sturdy, has enough legroom, and is the right height for you. What is the correct ergonomic height for my desk, computer monitor and office chair?
A standing desk can be easily adjusted to accommodate your changing needs and different work or gaming positions. Prevent strain on your back, neck and shoulders. Standing Desk: The Pros & Cons
YouTube Video: How to Build a Cable-Free Desk with Built-In Lights, USB, Outlets + More!
With all the different components of a gaming setup, it's easy for cables to become tangled and messy. Use cable ties, clips, and organisers to keep your cables organised and tidy. Opt for wireless technology where possible. A wireless keyboard, mouse, and headset can make it easier to switch from work to gaming mode without having to rearrange cables.
Choose a room with enough natural light for when you are working and get blackout curtains to go into dark mode for your gaming. When choosing artificial lights for your room, get a lighting setup that can be easily adjusted for both work and PC gaming. Consider adding a dimmer switch or investing in smart bulbs that can be controlled by your smartphone for different colour effects.
The monitor is one of the most important components of a gaming setup. Choose a monitor with a high refresh rate, low response time, and good resolution. Consider the size of the monitor and whether you want a curved or flat screen. For many games, a larger screen can provide a more immersive experience. The heart of any gaming setup is the gaming PC or console. A gaming PC can also be used for work purposes, or if you have a work notebook, connect it to your setup for seamless integration.
A good gaming keyboard and mouse will provide you with a better gaming experience. Look for keyboards with programmable keys and RGB lighting, and a mouse with adjustable DPI and good ergonomics.
If you like to play games with other players, your setup should include a decent headset with a microphone as it can make the gaming experience more enjoyable and provide a better sense of immersion. Alternatively, you may also want to consider getting a set of external speakers and mic for better sound quality. A good sound system and mic is also important for your office work, especially if you do a lot of video conferencing.
A fast internet connection is also crucial. It reduces lag time and provides both a smoother gaming experience and better video conferencing for work.
Add your own personal touch to your gaming room setup by choosing a theme or colour scheme, adding LED lighting, and displaying your favourite gaming memorabilia. By incorporating elements that you love, you can create a setup that is functional, comfortable, and inspiring for both work and gaming. Good lighting, comfortable temperature, and a clean and organised workspace all contribute to a more productive and enjoyable experience.
A good gaming setup can be expensive, so it is important to protect your investment against theft, fire, accidents and other risks with adequate insurance cover.
In conclusion, a combined home office and PC gaming room setup can provide a multitude of benefits, including increased productivity, an improved gaming experience, and a more efficient use of space. By investing in a comfortable chair, adjustable desk, quality monitor, fast internet connection, and good sound system, you can create a space that is conducive to both work and play. Prioritise your needs, stay organised, and enjoy your setup for a comfortable and immersive gaming experience!
Because our body shapes are all different, there is no “one size fits all”. How do you select the right ergonomic desk chair?
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