Unleashing Comfort: A Deep Dive into the Corsair TC500 LUXE Gaming Chair

Overview, Specifications, and Cost

Anyone observing Corsair’s transformation recognizes that they provide nearly every product related to PCs. Initially a RAM and storage supplier, they have expanded into peripherals, custom PCs, and now even furniture, such as the Platform:6 and a variety of chairs, which is the subject of this discussion.

Although gaming seats are not a fresh concept on the market, Corsair is making a bold statement with its offerings. At present, there are three variants available: the TC100 RELAXED, the most economical option, the T3 RUSH requiring a little more investment, and for those seeking the pinnacle of their offerings, there’s yet another tier of chairs boasting top-tier features but at a significantly higher cost than the others.

Presently located in our workspace is the TC500 LUXE gaming chair, designed larger than the T3 RUSH for those who require a bit more space. The aesthetics are enhanced compared to the TC100, and we benefit from the full-motion armrests. While the more budget-friendly options come in shades of gray and black, the TC500 LUXE is available in Shadow (black), Frost (white), and the variant we have, Sherwood (green), providing users with options that align with their office and PC decor.

Corsair employs terms like premium, plush, elegance, and breathable; however, we shall determine whether the chair lives up to the promotional claims as we examine every inch of our TC500 LUXE Sherwood gaming chair.

The specifications provided by Corsair are somewhat standard but encompass the essential information customers require to make an informed decision regarding its suitability for their needs. From the table, we observe that the TC500 LUXE arrived in Sherwood green and is intended for individuals with a height not exceeding six feet two inches or a weight under 264 pounds.

Delving a bit deeper into the measurements, the backrest stands at 80cm in height and 55cm in width, while the seat has a depth of 50 cm and a width of 59cm. Once assembled, the mechanism has the seat positioned 42cm above the ground when compressed and up to 52cm when extended. Beneath the cushioning and Sherwood green suede-like exterior lies a steel framework for support. Additionally, the armrests are adjustable, starting at a gap of 54cm, which expands to 58cm at their widest setting.

Apart from the fundamental measurements, the TC500 LUXE permits a ninety-degree upright position and can recline to 160°. The armrests are 4D, allowing them to move forward and back, inward and outward, and up and down, along with the capability to swivel 215°, which enables them to be adjusted for a better fit. We might have overlooked the 65mm caster size, but ultimately, when fully assembled, the TC500 LUXE weighs in at 31.2 pounds.

Two critical aspects remain, which are of utmost importance to anyone utilizing this gaming chair. The first factor is the price, with the TC500 LUXE listed at $499.99 MSRP wherever found. While this may seem steep for a gaming chair, we have previously invested more for similar items. What stands out, however, is the limited warranty of just two years, a norm for offerings from box stores. To put it frankly, we anticipated better from Corsair in this aspect.

Unboxing

VIEW GALLERY – 28 IMAGES

The container housing the TC500 LUXE is sizable, although the artwork is simple regarding what’s presented. Corsair’s logo is visible at the top left alongside the TC500 LUXE premium gaming chair labeling below, with a large Corsair logo positioned to the right. The opposing side of the packaging mirrors the front design.

Corsair also replicates the design on the other sides, similar to what’s seen on the front. We are presented with an image of the chair, the CF-9010068-WW/PK model number, and the Green/Sherwood color designation. Once more, the opposite side of this box corresponds with what is illustrated on this panel.

As you slice through the tape and lift the flaps, take a moment to notice the code on the right side of the printing. This is a method to access the manual without needing to search for the chair and clicking for it. It directs your mobile device to the necessary page.

After removing a thick layer of foam, we reveal the items included in the box. In this view, all components are either encased in plastic, stored within a box, or, in some situations, some parts are wrapped in bubble wrap. Despite minor damage to the exterior of the box, the TC500 LUXE inside remains in excellent condition, allowing typical users about ten minutes for assembly before use.

Corsair TC500 LUXE Components

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The backrest is the first item to emerge from the packaging, and we quickly observe that sleek green hue, a refreshing change from the usual black or gray. The backrest features wings to assist in keeping you secure during those high G maneuvers, and the wings around the shoulders replicate that effect. We also appreciate the contrast between the flat areas near the top and the diamond-stitched design on the lower section.

At the apex, woven into the suede-like material, we notice the black Corsair sails emblem on the headrest, with the Corsair name displayed in white over your left shoulder.

The reverse side is predominantly Sherwood green, but all surfaces are flat, lacking any reference to the diamonds on the front. However, Corsair ensures that anyone approaching from behind knows the manufacturer, with their name and emblem positioned at the top once again.

The seat base arrives partially assembled, as the armrests are already affixed, though we discover more of the diamond pattern integrated into the seat. The edges are padded for effect.

The fabric is secured to the steel frame using thick rings and is finished with a mix of support straps and dust-covering material in other areas, revealing only the four holes in the frame for the mechanism installation. We also note that even though the armrests are pre-attached, there is space to expand them if you require additional comfort.

The chair’s star base is crafted from metal, although Corsair does not specify which type. It feels lighter than steel but only needs to endure for a few years to exceed the warranty period. When we assemble the chair, this base will accommodate the casters and the strut.

The seat mechanism is the next component and supports the chair atop the strut. The knob located in the center is for adjusting tilt tension, while the lever visible on the right will lock and unlock the tilt position. The lever on the left side of this image is used to raise and lower the strut.

Inside one of the boxes, we discovered most of the additional components necessary to assemble this chair. It consists of five 65mm diameter casters, the strut, strut cover, and a pair of side caps that conceal the fastening point from the seat to the backrest.

We also found a cushion in the box, and while we wish it matched the chair’s color scheme, it remains out of sight during use, so that’s a consideration. Instead of utilizing an elastic strap, Corsair opts for magnetic attachment, which may restrict positioning but simplifies its usage.

There is one last box within the packaging, and as indicated on the label, it contains the assembly tool kit.

Even though Corsair has moved beyond using paper for instructions, they have shifted from plastic bags to paper bags, which feels somewhat ironic. Nevertheless, each bag is labeled and contains all the screws, a T-handle Allen wrench, caps, and a pouch with spare parts in case you require them later.

Assembly and Features

While many bases we observe are usually constructed better than Corsair’s welded-together variant, it is sturdy enough to support us, and we are nearing the maximum weight. Following the online guide for assembling this TC500 LUXE, we are instructed to attach the casters and invert the base to prepare for the next phase.

You will need to remove the cap from the strut’s top, exposing the blue tip, and fit it into the hole in the center of the frame. Once this is accomplished, you can place the three-piece strut cover over it.

It then instructs us to reverse the seat base and install the mechanism using four bolts. While this procedure is straightforward, the dimples in the steel frame of the mechanism are not squared, causing the mechanism to sit askew beneath the seat, regardless of how much you attempt to align it.

We took the seat base and mechanism and positioned it atop the strut. This is not the simplest task, but we managed to align it with some balance and stretching to see the strut.

The subsequent step involves sliding the chair down onto the tilt arm, as a groove ensures alignment, which is absent on the opposite side. Once the seat back is correctly positioned, you can initiate the fastening of the pair of bolts on one side, then move to the other, repeating the process, and tighten them all once everything is aligned.

The armrests differ significantly from what we typically encounter, featuring the swivel point at the center of the arm elevated above the rest of the mechanism. The arms utilize a freely movable latching system that enables them to shift forwards and backwards, pivot inward and outward, and elevate and descend.

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Positioned on each side of the seat back, just above the level of the armrests, are two knobs. The knob located on the chair’s right adjusts the lumbar support in and out, enhancing or diminishing the support provided. The left knob allows you to adjust the lumbar support vertically by twisting, as demonstrated here.

The final step in assembling the chair is to attach the side covers, which require a smaller screw, but can still be secured using the same Allen wrench. Once fastened, you will insert caps into the openings on both sides.

With your hand lever on the right lifted and the chair fully upright, the seat back has a slight lean forward, feeling just under 90°. You’ll also observe that the right armrest has been completely reversed. This adjustment increases its height, but reduces the resting area for your arms.

In the fully reclined position, you’ll be set to doze off unless you fall backward. While seated all the way back, we initially felt insecure, requiring a significant amount of trust in Corsair to avoid toppling onto the floor.

We will leave you with this visual of the TC500 LUXE, allowing you to appreciate its Sherwood green splendor. Overall, it is an aesthetically pleasing product, and we anticipate it will endure the rigors of daily use in our office.

Final Thoughts

On a basic level, everything regarding the TC500 LUXE functions as designed and should withstand user mistreatment for several years without major issues. We appreciate the material selection and surprisingly find it to be a cooler chair to sit in, even though only the fabric allows for breathability. After spending several hours in this chair, we did not experience swamp-like conditions in the seat base, and its feature set ranks high among other reputable options available.

While an adequate choice, we encountered certain aspects that function but are not to our liking, such as the unyielding seat base and the center of the seat being the highest point. Without being overly graphic, this is an experience that not many users will favor over time. The seat may become more pliable as time goes on, but after over a month of use, it remains just as uncomfortable as upon initial receipt. We also have reservations about the ratcheting mechanism that many are adopting for the armrests. Yes, they perform as expected, but they also adjust with minimal pressure, undermining your ability to customize their position for an improved fit. At this price tier, we anticipated more.

We also feel that Corsair is disappointing its customers with a two-year warranty. We regard manufacturers’ warranties as indicative of how long the company expects the product to last without issues, and again, for the price, at least five years of coverage should be standard. Given that you can enter any retail store and acquire a similar chair for approximately $300 with the same warranty duration, you really need to be enamored with this chair to invest the additional amount.

At $499.99, Corsair has set a high standard but doesn’t seem to be meeting it. Though the chair may endure longer with careful use, the lightness and thinness of the star base raises concerns for heavier users that will utilize these chairs. Speaking of dimensions, we do not believe Corsair adequately addressed its market, either. While Corsair imposes a height restriction, we see no necessity for this, and the 264-pound weight limit feels inadequate. Although it’s not the most uncomfortable chair we’ve encountered over the years at a computer desk, it would be better suited around the $350 mark. Considering the available options at the $500 price range, there are numerous superior seating choices that prioritize comfort for your rear and back.