The GTRacing GT099 is one of the company’s classic, best-selling gaming chair models. With its race car-inspired design and adjustable features for comfort, it aims to provide an immersive seating experience during long gaming sessions without breaking the bank. But how good is this budget gaming chair really? Let’s take an in-depth look at the GT099’s build quality, comfort, and overall value.
Overview of the GT099 Gaming Chair
The GT099 features a bucket seat design modeled after race car seats with integrated lumbar support in the backrest. It’s upholstered in PU leather or mesh fabric and trimmed in vibrant color accents.
Key features and specifications:
- Seat height adjustability: 16.9” to 20.9”
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- 170° backrest recline
- 2D adjustable armrests
- PU leather or mesh fabric upholstery
- Lumbar and headrest cushions included
- Integrated metal frame and base
- Assembly required (around 30 minutes)
The GT099 usually retails between $150 to $200 depending on promotions or sales. So how does it stack up in terms of comfort, quality, and overall value? Let’s evaluate further.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The thick cushioning offers decent comfort for the price point. However, some users find the seat padding to be on the firm side. The contoured backrest aims to support the natural curve of the spine, but the built-in lumbar support may not provide enough depth for proper alignment.
The included lumbar and headrest cushions are quite firm as well. You can adjust their positioning to fit your height, but they seem more like an afterthought rather than an integrated ergonomic feature.
Recline and tilt functionality work smoothly to allow switching between upright work mode and relaxed reclining. The rocking motion could be better however, as the spring tension is slightly stiff even when fully loosened.
Armrest adjustability is also rather limited, with only height and angle control. The movements can feel clunky, with a tendency to shift out of position accidentally.
So for comfort and ergonomics, the GT099 hits some good notes given its affordable pricing, but falls short of more premium chairs. Users above 6 feet tall may also find it too cramped.
Build Quality and Materials
Constructed on a metal frame and base, the GT099 seems sturdy enough for its class. But the plastic wheel base and thin padding point more towards the budget end of gaming chairs.
The PU leather feels rather thin and prone to wrinkling or tearing over time. After a few weeks of use, the material develops squeaks whenever you shift position. The stitching and logo accents add some visual flair, but aren’t very durable.
Assembly requires attaching almost every component using the included tools and instructions. The process takes around 30 minutes for one person. Some users mentioned needing to re-tighten bolts after initial use as things settle into place.
So while the GT099 meets expectations for the price, it doesn’t inspire confidence in long term sturdiness. The materials seem cheap, parts feel flimsy in places, and small issues can add up over years of use.
Design and Style
Visually, the GT099 successfully copies the race car seat look that has become synonymous with gaming chairs. The black PU leather body pairs nicely with bold color accents on the edges and stitching.
It looks stylish enough to fit into most gaming setups or workspaces. But side by side with premium brands, you may notice some corner cutting – things like messy fabric stitching, cheap plastic pieces, and flimsy adjustable levers.
Still, for shoppers prioritizing affordability over looks and label, the GT099 achieves that gaming aesthetic at a reasonable price point. It comes in color variants like red, blue, black, white and purple.
Price and Value
The GTRacing GT099 retails between $150 to $200 depending on promotions. In terms of features and quality relative to cost, it offers decent value for casual gamers. More discerning buyers may be disappointed by the cut corners.
Compared to other gaming chairs under $200 though, the GT099 holds up better against the competition. It wins on integrated lumbar support and smooth recline functionality.
Just don’t expect premium touches at this price tag. The GT099 is reasonably comfortable and looks the part, achieving the essentials for immersive PC gaming sessions without breaking the bank.
The Pros and Cons
Pros
- Costs just $150 to $200
- Sleek gaming aesthetic
- Integrated lumbar support
- Smooth recline and rocking
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Feels cheaply made
- Thin padding and firm cushions
- Flimsy adjustable parts
- PU leather prone to damage
- Small fit for tall users
Conclusion and Recommendation
The GTRacing GT099 gaming chair is a suitable budget option for cost-conscious shoppers wanting basic comfort with some style. It copies the race car seat look well and offers decent adjustability for the price.
However, the thin padding, cheap materials, and lack of premium features hold it back from being remarkable. Tall or heavyset users may also find it too cramped for all-day use.
We can recommend the GT099 for casual gamers on a strict budget not wanting to compromise too much. It should suffice for shorter gaming sessions. But for a better long-term investment, we suggest considering a more reputable gaming chair brand that prioritizes ergonomics and durability.