Even though Corsair is best known for their PC peripherals and tech, their latest gaming chair, the TC500 LUXE, is one of the best I’ve reviewed in 2024. This offering strikes the perfect balance between racing-style gaming chairs and high-end office chairs, delivering comfort and flexibility. After spending several weeks with the TC500 LUXE, I can confidently say that Corsair has created a chair that is not only comfortable for long gaming sessions but also stylish enough to fit into any home office setup—and considering how picky I am, that’s saying a lot.
Assembly of the TC500 LUXE is relatively straightforward, but there’s one significant oversight: the lack of printed instructions in the box. Instead, Corsair provides a QR code that leads to online assembly instructions. While this is an environmentally friendly approach, it can be frustrating if you’re eager to set up your chair and don’t have a device handy to scan the code.
Once I sorted that out, I was impressed by how streamlined the process was. Corsair provides everything needed, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. The high-quality materials used in the TC500 LUXE add to its weight, which is a good sign for long-term durability but can make the initial setup a bit of a workout. The bolts fit together as expected, and with a setup time of under 30 minutes, I was ready to sit and enjoy—with very little fuss—eager to see how this new gaming chair stacks up.
“After spending several weeks with the TC500 LUXE, I can confidently say that Corsair has created a chair that is not only comfortable for long gaming sessions but also stylish enough to fit into any home office setup…”
Once assembled, the TC500 LUXE makes a strong first impression with its sleek, modern design. Gone are the days of garish, over-the-top gaming chairs that fuel the typical gamer stereotype. Instead, Corsair has opted for a more subdued aesthetic that wouldn’t look out of place in a professional setting. The suede-like material is soft to the touch yet feels durable enough to withstand hours of late-night sessions at your PC without issue.
The Corsair TC500 LUXE chair comes in three colours: Frost, Shadow, and Sherwood. Our review unit came in the Sherwood colourway, which features a deep green fabric that I was initially unsure about but have since grown to love. Corsair’s colour choices buck the trend of traditional gaming gear and give the chair a sense of classic luxury, something I appreciate in my tech.
While it looks stunning out of the box, I have concerns about its long-term appearance and whether the colour will fade over time. So far, though, it has remained vibrant and looks great. The textured fabric, while comfortable, might show dirt and wear more easily in the light options, so I would opt for one of the darker choices to be safe.
While the Corsair TC500 LUXE chair looks great, its comfort is what truly sets it apart from a sea of competitors. The wide seat and firm yet plush cushioning provide excellent support for long gaming or work sessions. I’m notorious for being fidgety when sitting, and most racing-style gaming chairs make that difficult, so I was happy to find that the TC500 LUXE accommodates my need to shift positions comfortably. Whether sitting cross-legged, at strange angles, or as intended, the chair works well and feels fantastic.
If that weren’t enough, the 4-way adjustable lumbar support provides an extra level of comfort customization. Unlike many gaming chairs that rely on separate pillows, the TC500 LUXE features built-in lumbar support that can be adjusted up, down, in, and out. This level of adjustment allows you to find the perfect position for your lower back, which is crucial for maintaining good posture during extended sitting periods.
Up to this point, I was impressed with how well the Corsair TC500 LUXE chair compared to the competition, notably Secretlab. However, Corsair matched one of the best features, and I couldn’t be happier about the magnetic headrest pillow. It’s a small detail, but being able to easily adjust or remove the pillow without fiddling with straps has spoiled me. I find it hard to go back to using straps. The pillow itself is soft and supportive, perfect for those moments when you want to lean back and relax.
Even though this chair looks more luxurious than a typical gaming chair, it still offers the range of adjustments you expect to find the most comfortable way to sit, whether gaming or just using your PC. The chair reclines from 90 to 160 degrees, allowing for everything from upright working postures to near-horizontal relaxation.
The Omniflex armrests are a nice touch, offering a wide range of adjustments. They move up and down, in and out, forward and back, and even rotate. This level of customization ensures you can find the perfect armrest position, regardless of your body type or preferred sitting style. While I love how they feel, the lack of a locking mechanism is frustrating. I’ve accidentally moved them just by standing up almost daily, and when you find the perfect position, having them shift so easily can be annoying.
After using the TC500 LUXE for several weeks, I can say I’m impressed with what Corsair has delivered. The chair’s comfort and support have made it an asset for both work and gaming in the office. The wide seat and backrest provide ample room, even for larger users. I never felt cramped or restricted, which is a common issue with some gaming chairs that prioritize a gaming aesthetic over actual comfort—something I no longer want to pay a premium for.
“Even compared to the Secretlab Titan Evo, the TC500 LUXE delivers that executive look a bit better overall.”
Speaking of premium, the TC500 LUXE isn’t cheap—it will set you back $499.99 USD. That’s not to say Corsair is overcharging, as it’s priced competitively with other high-end gaming chairs from brands like Secretlab and Razer. However, it’s still a significant investment and not a small amount of money to spend. When you consider the chair’s build quality, comfort, and features, though, it becomes easier to justify the cost.
Compared to budget gaming chairs, the TC500 LUXE offers superior ergonomics, adjustability, and long-term comfort. It’s also more versatile than many gaming-focused chairs, with a design that wouldn’t look out of place in a professional setting.
When compared to high-end office chairs, the TC500 LUXE holds its own in terms of comfort and adjustability. Even compared to the Secretlab Titan Evo, the TC500 LUXE delivers that executive look a bit better overall. It competes well with other high-end options and offers a feel that simply can’t be found in the sub-$300 category, with materials that feel built to last and a design that stands out from the competition.
The Corsair TC500 LUXE is an impressive entry into the premium gaming chair market. It strikes a great balance between being gaming-focused and still looking good in a professional setting. For gamers and professionals alike who spend long hours at their desks, the TC500 LUXE offers a level of comfort and support that can make a real difference in daily life. While the price tag may give some pause, the chair’s quality and features make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize comfort and ergonomics.
