DXRacer Drifting: Comfort and Ergonomics Designed to Last

The Drifting gaming chair is the entry-level model in the DXRacer range. Characterized by a sporty design, inspired by racing seats, it offers an aggressive style without compromising the ergonomic needs of those who expect long gaming sessions or entire workdays behind a desk. 

Sporty Design and Premium Materials: DXRacer Drifting Variants

Available in numerous configurations, buyers can opt for an EPU leatherette upholstery (more durable and resistant than regular leatherette) or water-resistant fabric, in two sizes (L and XL), for a cost ranging between 339 euros and 499 euros in limited editions inspired by titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Metaphor: ReFantazio. 

Along with the main body components, a cooling gel and memory foam headrest, adjustable in height via the “pins” located on the sides of the backrest, and a generous lumbar support in soft, velvet-like fabric are also provided. The instruction sheet is immense and easy to read, and also included is a manual with usage tips plus an illustrative leaflet regarding cleaning depending on the materials.

Easy Assembly and Clear Instructions: Assembling the Drifting

If you have no experience in assembly and fear causing damage, the Drifting couldn't be more user-friendly. Most of the pieces snap into place without needing any pressure, and once in position, they are solid and silent. I've been using it for two weeks and haven't heard a peep since, including the wheels. 

The most “laborious” procedure is attaching the backrest and seat to the metal base with hexagonal bolts, but thanks to the wrench included in the box, they can be tightened and loosened (for future maintenance) with extreme ease. The only perhaps slightly awkward moment in the procedure is inserting the right side of the backrest into its dedicated carriage while simultaneously aligning the opposite side with the bolt holes (you have to “guide” it firmly for a couple of centimeters), but in any case, you'll manage it in 10-20 minutes, no more. Finally, the side “guards” that cover the frame are magnetic and attach to the body with a resounding CLACK. 

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Aesthetic Details: My Experience with DXRacer Drifting

Cleaning the exposed parts is a breeze; a quick vacuum or a damp cloth for stains is all it takes, and everything is easily accessible. The only hassle is not seeing dust on the white sections, but that's my fault for choosing this color. I wanted to try the Speed setup, with a black and white base, gray and orange details, and stylish raised stitching depicting a “non-GT86” with a Panda Trueno livery in a drift (very apt, considering the chair's name). It must be said that there were two protruding threads at the edges of said stitching, but they seemed like excess left over after factory assembly; nothing is noticeable after removing them with a snip of scissors. Let's hope they are the first and last...

Comfort and Build Quality of DXRacer Drifting: Comfort You Can Feel

Aesthetically, it certainly doesn't go unnoticed, but there's definitely substance behind the ostentatious appearances. The materials are of high quality, whose stability and quietness I've already praised, and they provide truly excellent comfort. The “winged” seat is wide, welcoming, and soft enough, it doesn't slip, doesn't stick to the skin, and doesn't seem to overheat over time (the heat of a few months ago is gone, but temperatures are still quite high). The backrest is enveloping and rigid without being too restrictive; posture is gently supported and can be maintained for hours without seeking relief elsewhere. 

My back usually complains about the slightest inconvenience, but I still managed to “get used” to the new setup in a few days. However, I had to do without the headrest and lumbar support, but that's a personal quibble (it happens when you're two meters tall, Editor's Note). Height from the ground and inclination are easily adjusted with the appropriate levers, while the 3D armrest is as minimal as it is practical. I just found its length adjustment uncomfortable. The structure does not offer enough resistance to prevent a distracted maneuver from moving it from its housing, but it offers just enough to complicate access to intermediate steps. There are five levels, and the extreme ones are easily set, while for the others, you need a bit of practice. 

Durability and Resistance: The DXRacer Drifting Put to the Test

And now the real unknown: how long will the chair survive? On paper, the Drifting can support up to 125kg, and every single component undergoes stress tests in the order of tens of thousands of cycles (meaning the application of weights or forces on critical points or moving parts). It's hard to say how this translates into everyday life, especially if, like me, you regularly do 8-12 hour stints.

My only point of reference is my old chair, which for about 200 euros did an excellent job over 5 years, the last of which was spent losing bits of upholstery and creaking here and there. Will this one make it through safely, perhaps without losing pieces along the way? I have no idea, but I sincerely hope so. So far, I don't regret the choice at all, and the premises are more than good. 

Alternatives in the DXRacer Range: Craft and Tank

For completeness, we inform you that the range also includes the Craft model, wider, softer, and more accessorized, with prices ranging between 439 and 479 euros, 579 in the case of the Guild Wars 2 version, and the Tank model, even larger, taller, and capable of supporting up to 180kg thanks to its reinforced frame, but prices go up to between 539 and 599 euros. 

Conclusion: Is the DXRacer Drifting Worth Buying?

So, is it worth buying this DXRacer Drifting gaming chair? The price is certainly not accessible to everyone, but a good chair for intensive and regular use has similar, if not higher, prices. My feelings after two weeks are excellent: the components are solid and of quality, the comfort is impeccable, it assembles and maintains without problems; it would be appropriate to talk about it again in a couple of years. It's up to you to determine if the outlay is appropriate for a “gaming” chair. Personally, I recommend it, both for more advanced setups and for a more sober environment.