The ThunderX3 Core is an unusual gaming chair. It was first unveiled at Computex 2023 and was later presented again at Gamescom, where it was also possible to try it out for the first time. Priced in the mid-range, the chair aims to score points with an adjustable lumbar support, a footrest and other ergonomic features – which can definitely be considered a unique selling point here. This made us curious: Is the ergonomics merely a sales argument or does the chair deliver on its big promises? We tested it thoroughly!
Scope of delivery and assembly
The ThunderX3 Core is supplied in a large package containing its individual parts and an Allen key. The individual parts have to be inserted into each other and then screwed tight. The only difference to the assembly of other gaming chairs is that the backrest does not have to be attached to the seat, but to the chair base. This is due to the synchronous mechanism used. However, this does not mean any additional effort, just an unfamiliar grip for the more experienced. Assembly instructions describing each step are included in the package. They are clearly understandable. It advises two people to tackle the assembly, but in the test it also worked well on its own. You don’t need to plan much time either. We hardly needed more than ten minutes to assemble the chair.
Design and workmanship
Visually, the ThunderX3 Core does not stand out from the crowd of gaming chairs. The manufacturer has opted for the classic racing seat look, which is extremely popular among gaming fans. The chair has a high-quality finish. Depending on the version, the seat and backrest are made of textile or artificial leather. The base and the inside of the armrests are made of metal. The rest of the chair is made of plastic. In terms of workmanship, we could not find any defects, except that the contact surfaces of the armrests are a little rickety.
We noticed a lot of little extras. In addition to the visually striking variable lumbar support, which we will discuss in more detail later, and the equally eye-catching headrest cushion, there are storage compartments on the back of the backrest. Snacks or controllers can be stored here.
A separate footrest is also included, which is a real rarity in the price range of this chair.
In our opinion, the ThunderX3 Core is in the very top league in terms of looks, workmanship and features!
Seating comfort and ergonomics
This already foreshadows the ergonomics of the chair. Its features are atypical for its price range and promise enormous comfort – without any back pain or tension. And indeed: in our practical test, the ThunderX3 Core completely convinced us in this respect. However, you have to give your back a little time to get used to the new chair and the extra movement. Tension may well occur at first if you were not used to exercising your back so much before.
Adjustment options
First of all, the many options for adjusting the chair to your own needs and physical conditions are positive. Various buttons and levers are available for this purpose, which can be used to adjust the height and inclination of the seat or the position of the backrest. The rocking resistance of the backrest can also be adjusted.
Unexpectedly, the manufacturer does not specify a minimum or maximum size. However, due to the adjustment range, we assume that even relatively small and relatively tall people should be able to cope with it. However, a maximum weight is specified: only people who weigh no more than 150 kilograms should sit on the ThunderX3 Core.
Lots of ergonomics
However, the real highlight of the gaming chair is its ergonomic aspects. The first thing to mention here is the synchronized mechanism: When the backrest is moved, the seat moves with it. This ensures that the optimum sitting angle is maintained despite the change, thus ensuring a gentle position for the back. If you want to be free of back pain even after sitting for a long time, you should not do without this function – and yet it is still far from being standard in the gaming sector.
A flexible lumbar support is even rarer. Unlike most gaming chairs, this is not realized as a kind of rigid cushion, but basically makes up the majority of the contact surface with the back. It is connected to the backrest by a flexible joint and constantly adapts to body movements. The hollow space of the lower back, the so-called lordosis, is thus supported in every sitting position, which counteracts tension and, in the long term, incorrect posture. We found this to be extremely comfortable during the test: even when we were slouching on the chair, we were gently supported – and thus easily achieved a playing position that was easy on the back. The only drawback is that the joint that holds the support seems rather flimsy. After our short test, we can’t say whether this makes it susceptible to damage. However, it is to be feared.
The headrest and footrest are also important for seating comfort. The headrest looks gigantic and provides a very pleasant feeling when sitting. It makes neck pain a thing of the past. With its oversized ears, it also conveys a pleasant feeling of being enclosed.
The last ergonomic feature is the footrest, which we rarely find as a separate element on a gaming chair. In our test, we found that it has a number of advantages: the different foot and leg position means that our muscles there are at least slightly challenged, preventing pain.
Conclusion on the ThunderX3 Core: Above-average strength
In conclusion, it can be said that the ThunderX3 Core fully convinced us. Particularly noteworthy are the many ergonomic features, which proved to be really useful in the practical test – and are usually sought in vain in the mid-price range to this extent. Overall, the price-performance ratio here is very strong, making the ThunderX3 Core one of the best gaming chairs of the year!
ThunderX3 Core
Structure
Design and workmanship
Seating comfort and ergonomics
Value for money
96/100
A strong gaming chair with outstanding ergonomic features and a very good price-performance ratio.
No replies yet
Neue Antworten laden...
Gehört zum Inventar
Beteilige dich an der Diskussion in der Basic Tutorials Community →