The Couchmaster CYCON³ from Nerdytec is the third generation with a modular approach. The model was announced at Gamescom 2024 this year and is due to be delivered from mid-October. One new feature is the HORIZONLIGHT bar, a colored LED strip on the top edge of the support. It is conveniently operated via touch-sensitive buttons. In addition, there is now also a USB-C port that charges the smartphone with 18 watts while gaming. Another highlight, in contrast to the previous model, is that the side pockets are now integrated on both sides.
This test clarifies whether the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ continues to revolutionize sofa gaming and whether the new features are worthwhile.
Technical data
| Model | Couchmaster CYCON³ |
| Color selection | Black (more versions available soon) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H): Cushion | 60 x 20 x 16 cm |
| Dimensions (L x W x H): Cushion | 82 x 35 x 3 cm |
| Dimensions (L x W x H): Mouse pad | 300 x 230 x 30 mm |
| Materials |
|
| Max. Inner cushion spacing | 75 cm |
| Number of USB interfaces: Total | 6 |
| Number of USB interfaces: Internal | 4 |
| Number of USB interfaces: Outside | 2 |
| USB connection |
|
| HORIZONLIGHT bar | 236 addressable RGB LEDs |
| Price | € 189.00 * |
| Model | Couchmaster Cyback |
| Color selection | black |
| Dimensions (L x W x H): Cushion | 50 x 25 cm |
| materials | Suede look (microfiber) |
Scope of delivery
- Environmentally friendly packaging, elongated cardboard box
- Various accessories included
- Upgrade: Cyback or back cushion, which is shipped vacuum-packed
The Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ comes well packaged and environmentally friendly. The box is oblong and contains all the necessary accessories. The Cyback, however, is an additional upgrade in the form of a back cushion, which is delivered separately. For space reasons, it is vacuum-packed at this point.
Back to the Couchmaster CYCON³. The two support cushions are included in addition to the cushion. There is also a mouse bag, a gaming mouse pad and 1 meter of self-adhesive Velcro tape. To bring the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ to life, a power supply unit with 3 meters of cable is of course also included. The connection to the PC is made via two additional cables, which are divided into a 0.8 meter long hub connection cable and a 5 meter long USB 3.0 extension. As usual, the operating instructions are also included. Nerdytec also includes a replacement screw for safety.
Structure
- Certain preparatory work required before use
- Optimization: Youtube video for initial configuration
To begin with, the support is turned over once and the four large screws, two on each side, are loosened. This opens the two flaps in which you can now insert your own wired devices into the interior of the housing. All devices can be connected via the USB hub, of which a total of 4 are available inside. For those who now rely on a wireless keyboard and mouse, this point can of course be safely ignored.
The shorter USB cable (0.8 m) is then plugged into the right-hand side of the hub and routed to the outside. Depending on the application, this can be done either on the left or right side. Three cable harnesses are also available for convenient storage of the cables. Now replace the flaps and secure them with the four screws.
The next step is to attach the mouse pocket to the front of the support. If you are right-handed, it is of course better to use the right side and vice versa. Now connect the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ to the PC. To do this, connect the short USB cable to the 5 meter long USB extension and the latter to the PC. Not to be forgotten is the power supply unit on this side. This is responsible for the lighting, among other things. Finally, you can use Velcro tape to attach the peripheral devices if you wish.
The Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ is now ready for use. Of course, the Cyback does not require any further work steps. It is only recommended to wait 24 hours so that it can fully unfold from the vacuum packaging.
To make it even easier for the end user, video instructions would probably be helpful in the future. Nerdytec could print a QR code that links to a YouTube video with the individual steps.
Appearance & processing
- Basic concept has been retained: three individual components
- Touch panel with LED modes and RGB control
- High-quality finish, comfortable cushions and backrest
Compared to its predecessor(our test), the basic concept has been visually retained and supplemented with a few useful additions. The Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ still consists of three individual components. The two covers of the support cushions are made of suede-look microfiber, while the filling is made of cold foam with a memory effect. The centerpiece is of course the support, which is mainly made of plastic and rests loosely on the support cushions. The distance can be varied as required, with the maximum internal distance between the cushions being 75 cm.
Visually, the pad is definitely an eye-catcher and the active HORIZONLIGHT bar creates the usual gaming atmosphere. The touch panel, which is used to control the clever overlay, allows the selection of various LED modes including speed and brightness in five levels. In addition to monochrome variants, there are also eleven colorful effects to choose from. Alternatively, the RGB colors can be regulated using a slider. If you generally don’t like such light effects and prefer a plain desk, you can switch off the HORIZONLIGHT bar if required.
In terms of workmanship, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ has no flaws. The cushions look high quality and are comfortable for supporting the arms. The same can be said of the backrest and the separately available cyback. It adapts flexibly to the shape of the back and, thanks to the memory foam, it immediately returns to its original position. The switch from USB-A to USB-C was also a smart decision, allowing smartphones to be charged quickly between uses.
Comfort & ergonomics
- Relief for shoulder and neck muscles
- USB 3.0 hub for easy device connection
- Peripheral devices can be used without a power supply unit (900 mA)
In terms of ergonomics, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ is well equipped. The further developments are clearly noticeable, from which the user benefits in any case. As before, the two side cushions help to relieve the shoulder and neck muscles and thus prevent tension. Provided you lean back casually, as the manufacturer intended.
Thanks to the USB 3.0 hub inside, you save yourself a lot of fiddling around. Once connected, all devices are ready for use as soon as they are plugged into the PC. Incidentally, the peripheral devices can also be operated without a power supply unit, provided they do not require more than 900 mA. However, the backlight will then no longer work, which is why this is not necessarily recommended.
Practical test: How does it perform in the living room?
- Very comfortable even over longer periods of time
- Ideal for gaming sessions
- Limited use for home office
Casual gaming?
In the test, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ proved to be a flexible alternative for transforming the sofa into a gaming station. Of course, those who prefer to convert the bed can also do so. Thanks to its modular design, consisting of three components, the Couchmaster CYCON³ is fixed in place and can be adjusted according to body shape. This works by adjusting the width of the support cushions as well as the support towards or away from the user, provided that the mouse pocket is removed beforehand. Only the height or angle of inclination cannot be adjusted due to the rigid design.
Some people may still feel a kind of “tightness” at first, but this should disappear automatically after a certain amount of time getting used to it. The only problem is that once you’ve made yourself comfortable, it’s often difficult to rush to the phone or the door. As a result, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ is not really suitable for short gaming sessions lasting a few minutes. For longer gaming sessions, however, it is extremely worthwhile and, especially when it comes to comfort, a sofa or bed is still the better choice than a plain office chair.
Once you get used to it, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ feels really good! Our accuracy in shooters hasn’t necessarily increased as a result, but that’s another story… The new additional side pockets are very practical. This means that more drinks or chip bags can be stowed away, as well as a controller. Finally, if you take out the controller and switch to the dark side of the Force, the mouse disappears into the front mouse pocket in no time at all.
Use for the home office?
While the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ proves to be a solid gaming station, the question arises as to whether it could also be used as a home office option. Although Nerdytec offers special versions such as the CYBOT, CYWORX or CYBOSS, it is unlikely that you would want to have several of them in your living room.
From an ergonomic point of view, it definitely fits in conjunction with the CYBACK, but the slightly too large mouse pad is probably a problem here. If the laptop is not in the middle, but permanently too far to the left, it can be a bit annoying when typing e.g. emails. At the same time, the touch panel for the HORIZONLIGHT bar would then have to slide to the top right or left, as otherwise the laptop would cover it and unintentional inputs would occur. It is therefore only suitable to a limited extent in this position with all its functions.
A further development with a mini mouse pad, control panel on the side and, ideally, a second direct power connection on the short USB hub cable would therefore be ideal. Depending on requirements, the longer cable version could then be used for the PC and alternatively the short connection for the laptop. A 2-in-1 version from the current product range, so to speak.
Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ test: Conclusion
In the end, the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ convinces as an ergonomically well thought-out solution for gamers who want to make themselves comfortable on the sofa. The storage surface offers enough space for a mouse and a TKL or even a full-size keyboard. The integrated cable routing inside the shelf keeps things tidy. Particularly noteworthy is the new lighting function and the unchanged high level of comfort thanks to the side support cushions, which allow you to lean back and relax.
The table system also impresses with its robust workmanship and stability. At the same time, it is light enough to be stowed away in its individual parts to save space when not in use. The six USB ports also ensure versatility, especially for gaming setups or home office scenarios. The price increase of around 10 euros compared to its predecessor is therefore perfectly understandable in view of the numerous improvements, especially in terms of lighting.
One of the downsides of the Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ is its size, which can lead to space problems, especially on small sofas. In addition, the initial configuration requires some patience. Another problem generally associated with such couch overlays is, of course, getting up spontaneously. If the phone suddenly rings or the doorbell rings, it usually takes a little longer than usual. For this reason, such systems are more suitable for longer sessions and not for a quarter of an hour’s use, for example.
In summary, the Couchmaster CYCON³ offers an excellent combination of comfort, functionality and ergonomics and is a clear recommendation for couch gamers. Additional accessories for the Couchmaster CYCON³ are also available in Nerdytec’s online store.
Nerdytec Couchmaster Cycon³
Processing
Equipment
Ergonomics
Price-performance ratio
91/100
The Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON³ offers useful innovations compared to its predecessor and stylish lighting. If you want to move your gaming to the couch in between, this is the right choice for you.
