Ergonomics and Comfort without breaking the bank on an office chair.

I am not sure that I will ever move from Padawan to Master status, as I feel that I am a perpetual student amassing nuggets of wisdom.  Beyond gems like never eat yellow snow, or never pee into the wind, one of the most valuable pieces of information received was to never skimp on one’s back or feet.  I have taken this information to heart when purchasing mattresses, shoes, backpacks, and chairs. 

As the pandemic created a different work environment, I spent more time in front of my MacBook, iPad, and work computer.  With more dedicated sitting time, I needed a chair to provide comfort and support to reduce back/neck strain without breaking the bank.  Thankfully, the ergonomic Sihoo chair provided the missing link. 

Unboxing

The Sihoo M18 chair arrived in a large 13 inches wide by 29 1/2 inches long by 21 1/2 inches tall tan cardboard box.  Each side panel listed the M18-M148 model number, product dimensions, product manufacturing, and Made in China labels.  The front/back covers provided the SIHOO name along the top left, the M18-M148 model number along the bottom right, and several weight warnings along the right edge.  

The main focal point of the cover was the side view of an ink-outline skeleton in a seated posture.  The scientific diagram provided an air of credibility by demonstrating proper knee height, armrest height, hand active area, normal line of site, and the maximum line of sight.  Additionally, the image demonstrated a protractor/angled view of the 90-120 degree office work posture, a small relaxed wedge from ~105-120 degrees, and a lying angle from 120-135 degrees.  The design/image created a desire for workplace optimization and a draw for a more comfortable seat. 

Assembly

When I opened the lid, I found packing material, cardboard liners, chair parts, and a single small white glove which was a good fit for my 7-year-old daughter’s hand.  I removed each piece from the box, starting with the armrests, and then moved to the headrest, seat cushion, backrest, swivel mechanism, and three cardboard accessory boxes. 

Each piece was meticulously bubble or plastic wrapped, securely positioned, and arrived without any damage.  I opened the accessory boxes and found a five-point leg/caster frame within one box, the five legs/caster posts in another, and the casters, riser, and hardware in the third.  Once I removed all the components and packing materials from the box, I found the second glove hiding at the bottom.

I removed the instruction manual from the seat cushion bag and followed the first two pages of instructions.  The subsequent pages provided a two-panel diagram/description in German, French, Italian, Spanish, and a character language (likely Chinese).  I opted to follow the instruction manual instead of the available YouTube video.  For the first step, I removed 10 of the M6*12 screws and the hex wrench from the hardware punch card, unwrapped each of the caster legs/casters, and then installed the caster legs onto the base. 

I was pleased with the setup, the blue thread locking material on each of the M6*12 screws, and the machined attachment points.  Once the legs were attached to the central base, I inserted each caster into the posts.  I then inserted the silver-foot trim, followed by the air-pressure rising rod, into the middle of the base to complete the second step of the installation process.   

For the third step, I attached the left then right armrests to the seat cushion with the included M6*25 screws/small washers. The instruction manual showed the cushion base, the hex screwdriver, and the proper washer positioning.  I installed the riser/tilt mechanism to the seat cushion with the M6*20 screws for the fourth step.  For the fifth step, I removed the three M8*45 screws and installed the back plate to the seat cushion. 

For the sixth step, I installed the cushion/back plate with mechanism onto the base’s gaslift arm.  For the final step, I slid the headrest into the slot on the back of the back plate and then adjusted the headrest to the appropriate position.  Once fully installed, I tested each of the chairs features.  I loved the adjustable headrest, the armrest height adjustment mechanism, the seat height adjustment button, the backrest tilt tension, the breathable mesh backing (no sweating), the lumbar support depth and height adjustment, and the casters/mobility.  Lastly, the instruction manual provided a helpful parts list and generic safety instructions.  

Testing

Upon first impression, the chair seat cushion and back plate appeared rigid and stiff.  However, after using the chair over the past few weeks, I found my initial assumption wrong.  Instead of an overly firm, inflexible surface, I found a supportive Goldilocks, just-right feel to the base.  I enjoyed the lumbar support depth adjustable knob and found the chair provided an impressive amount of lower back support for my 5’9”, 158-pound frame. 

If you remove your weight from the chair, you can tilt the seat height adjustment lever to raise the chair.  This will allow you to rest with your feet on the floor and prevent a tiny legs big chair situation.  Set your weight back into the chair and press the lever again to lower the chair to the optimal height.  Slide the backrest tilt angle adjustment rod to lock the chair into the upright position or pull it out to gain the ability to rock/tilt.  

To further optimize the experience, I adjusted the backrest tilt tension adjustment and placed the headrest in the perfect position for my head.  I loved the ability to slide the headrest up/down (~3.5 inches), and the ability to rotate the headrest forward/backward (~45 degrees).  The chair armrests could be raised/lowered to taste/need and allowed the chair to slide under my desk when fully lowered. 

Each armrest could be adjusted individually, which allowed for additional customization.  In summary, the chair provided quite a bit of customization and allowed for prolonged comfort for typing/reading/activities.  In fact, I typed this review and a few others from the comfort of the Sihoo chair without a sweaty back or fatigue/discomfort.

If I had one wish to improve the Sihoo chair, it would be for the casters to be replaced with slightly larger/rubberized wheels. The casters will not work well on taller carpets unless you have an under-desk mat.  I had no issues when utilizing the chair with the shorter carpet in my basement/outdoor style carpet, nor did I have any issues on my hardwood floor.  However, the chair was less maneuverable than needed when used on my plush upstairs taller-style carpet.  There are better casters for the carpet; you can remove/upgrade the casters if desired.  

Summary

I was pleased with the packaging, the ~20-minute installation/setup, the hextool/driver, and with the firmness of the foam seat cushion and backplate.  I would have preferred slightly larger casters for improved carpet utility, but this did not detract from the overall review.  Packaging 4/5, customization/comfort 4.5/5, cost 5/5. 

Learn more about the SIHOO M18 chair and follow Sihoo on Facebook and Twitter.

Neon signs are a popular way to add some personalization and flair to your home or office. They are eye-catching, bright, and can be custom-made to fit your specific style. While they are a popular form of advertising, they do come with an environmental price. Traditional neon signs are made by bending glass tubing into shapes and then filling the tubes with gases like mercury and argon.

These gases can escape into the atmosphere and cause pollution. Neon signs also require a lot of energy to run, which can lead to increased emissions from power plants. Fortunately, there is an alternative. Make Neon Sign uses LED neon, which is safer for the end-user, consumes less electricity, is much more durable, and is difficult to break since it is made out of silicon.

About Make Neon Sign

Make Neon Sign has been creating unique neon light designs for 10 years now. They work with modern technologies and materials to provide a classic neon sign look for customers while also being cost-effective and environmentally friendly. They pride themselves on being able to bring any design to life that customers can imagine.

Make Neon Sign works with many professional brands (i.e. Universal Studios, Coca-Cola, Jegermaister, Nike, and Tik Tok), ****and their signs can be seen in places such as restaurants, coffee shops, clubs, weddings, offices, concerts, and art shows.

All the signs are made in Europe with premium quality. DHL is used to ship the signs worldwide. High-quality LED lights are used since they provide many benefits over traditional glass neon lights. Make Neon Sign has a large database of more than 10,000 designs that can be customized to suit your needs. In addition to its database of designs, Make Your Sign accepts designs or logos direct from customers, too.

Fast Feature Facts

• Make Neon Sign can make a sign in any shape — even custom logos.
• The neon in the signs can last up to 50,000 hours without losing any brightness. Make Neon Sign offers a 3-year warranty, too.
• There are two options for installation — hanging kit or mounting on the wall (provided).
• The neon sign only uses 12V of power and they do not produce heat.
• The neon is made with silicone and cannot break.

How It Works

1. Custom Design: Use the online tool to create a neon sign on the spot, or upload your design, and Make Neon Sign will make a free mockup for you.
2. Easy to Install: How to install a neon sign? Easy just drill holes in the wall and tighten them with the wall holders. Plug the light into power.
3. Power Efficient: The Neon Signs are Energy Efficient so, you don’t need to worry about your electric bill going up while your sign is shining.

Our Sign Experience

Our Make Neon Sign experience began a couple of months ago in October. I received an email from the CEO of Make Neon Sign about their products and an offer to create a sign for Mac Sources. This was intriguing to us because we don’t have a typical storefront location. So, we never thought about creating a custom logo sign. Nino assured us that the process would be easy on us and that they would do all the heavy lifting. He wasn’t wrong!

I sent a high-resolution version of our logo to Make Neon Sign and within a few days, he returned a mock-up image to me for my approval. This image mockup is the same preview you experience if you use the custom sign tool on makeneonsign.com. There are measurement lines across the top to show you the scale of your sign and the color/reflection of light is included, too. I love that this is provided because it really does provide a pretty accurate assimilation of the finished product.

If you are familiar with the Mac Sources logo, you will note that our standard version is orange and black. We do have an alternate version that replaces the black with white, but we typically only use that if the logo is appearing on a black background. I provided both versions to Make Neon Sign and asked them to judge which one would work the best. As it turned out, the orange and white version was the best option.

After I approved the mockup, it was about two weeks until I saw the finished product (via a photo). It was stunning! Now, I can’t say that this type of photo is provided to all clients of Make Neon Sign, but it might be possible if requested. It was another 7-10 days before the sign arrived.

When it did arrive, I was impressed with the care and attention the Make Neon Sign team took in the packaging of the sign. The backing of the neon is made with thick plexiglass and even though I’m sure the neon can be broken, the sign is actually quite durable.

The lighting gets its power from a nearly translucent power cable that connects to a 12V power supply (provided). An RF Wireless Remote and controller are included as well as the hanging hardware. Our sign measures 45 inches long and it has five mounting holes in the plexiglass (two on each end and one in the center).

Hanging it isn’t difficult, but it is a little unwieldy for one person because of its length and weight. If you have a sign that is similar in size, I would recommend two people hang it up. We hung it up in one of our offices above a doorway. It has been secured on our wall for a few weeks and it looks great!

The neon signs vary in price depending on their size and the colors used. The custom signs start at $50.

Final Thoughts

Using Make Neon Sign to create a custom logo for your business is a great way to stand out from the competition. The product is top-notch and it can even make a one-of-a-kind gift.

For more information, visit makeneonsign.com, Facebook, and Instagram.

Unique desk mat keeps desk tidy and comfortable.

Extra large desk mats have been popular with PC gamers for many years. They use them to help increase the accuracy of their movements and while I’m not a PC gamer, I do appreciate how a desk mat helps to tidy up a workspace.

For a while now, I’ve used neoprene or other synthetic material-based mats. They are pretty typical for most workspaces and I hadn’t ever really considered a different material until I saw the Felt & Cork Desk Mat from Oakywood.

Felt & Cork Desk Mat Details

Felt and cork desk mats add a touch of elegance to any desk. They are also eco-friendly, as felt is made from recycled materials and cork is a renewable resource. Felt and cork matting is also easy to clean, as it can be wiped with a cloth or wet sponge. All of these reasons made my decision to switch over to Oakywood’s desk mat very easy.

Their Felt & Cork Desk Mat is made with premium natural materials including biodegradable, ecological cork, wool felt, and washpapa (“vegan leather”). It comes in two sizes – Medium (11.8” x 24.4”) or Large (11.8” x 35.4”). The desk mat is designed to protect the desk and at the same time be easy to clean and wear well over time.

Facts about Materials

• Merino Wool Felt is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and certified safe under OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
• Biodegradable cork is 100% natural and can be extracted without hurting the tree
• Washpapa – a washable sewing paper (“vegan leather”)

Care Instructions

• Water – remove water with a paper towel
• Spills (wine, food, oil) – wet the stain with water and light detergent. Wait 2-3 minutes, remove moisture, and repeat until the stain lightens
• Dust and dry stains – vacuum the mat occasionally

User Experience

Oakywood is a premium accessory designer that I’ve admired for quite some time and the Felt & Cork Desk Mat caught my eye because of the color choices. They offer two colorways – Anthracite and Grey.

Both options are exclusive-looking but the Anthracite is a dark, charcoal, or black shade while the Grey is lighter and more neutral. My desktop is white and most of my setup is white or black. I had a black desk mat for a while and really wanted something lighter. The Grey ended up being the perfect option for me. It is a nice contrast to the other elements in my workspace and it is light enough that it doesn’t make the space feel closed off or cluttered.

Of course, with getting such a light color I was concerned with how dirty it might get. I work at my computer every single day. Fortunately, there hasn’t been any noticeable dirt collection on the mat. I thought for sure there would likely be spots from where I rest my hands but the mat actually looks just as good as it did when it first arrived.

The desk mat was delivered rolled up in a tube. When I pulled it out, I was concerned that it might take a while for it to flatten out, but I was surprised to find that within about an hour, the corners were not curling up anymore. I did lay it flat on my desk and placed a couple of weighted objects on each corner to help the process along, but it was flat relatively quickly.

The next thing I noticed was that there were some loose strands from the wool felt collecting on the mat. If you have ever encountered one of these desk mats, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. The care instructions provided by Oakywood suggest using a vacuum, which I’m sure would work, but I also found a lint roller to tidy up the mat quite well.

After that initial sweep of the lint roller, I’ve just now (after two months of use) started noticing where some felt is loosening up again. I think that if you keep an eye on the condition of the felt and clean it up regularly, you won’t have constant lint balling up on your desk.

I can say that the claims about the material being easy to clean up are true. I had an unfortunate testing opportunity where a 7UP was knocked over on my desk. I was very fortunate that none of the electronics were in the path of the soda, but the desk mat took a direct hit.

I was actually able to shake the mat off outside and most of the liquid flew off of it. There was some that soaked into the cork, but the desk mat did its job and protected the desktop from any of the sticky residues that might have otherwise been collected.

Conclusion

Overall, I have been very happy with the Felt & Cork Desk Mat. It’s comfortable to use and it’s a nice change from the ‘standard’ neoprene desk mats that are popular. The material is soft on the hands and doesn’t get too hot when you rest your hands on it. It’s very durable and super easy to clean. I have found that the Large size is perfect for my 72-inch desktop and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a premium desk mat.

For more information, visit oakywood.shop, Facebook, and Twitter.

Working from home has its ups and downs. I’ve been working exclusively from home now for nearly two years and while my team has very few problems connecting, there are others that struggle with having the right equipment for the job. One of my favorite technology companies – Kensington – just came out with a complete kit for video conferencing that makes it super easy to make sure you are seen and heard around the world.

About Kensington’s Video Conferencing Solution

This past week, Kensington announced the release of their Professional Video Conferencing Solution. It’s a unified, plug-and-play video conferencing experience that helps users customize and optimize their video presence when they are connecting with their teammates remotely.

The system includes a webcam (W1050 1080p Fixed Focus Wide Angle Webcam, W2000 1080p Auto Focus Webcam, or W2050 Pro 1080p Auto Focus Webcam), the L1000 Bicolor Ring Light with Webcam Mount, and a mounting option (A1000 Telescoping C- Clamp, A1010 Telescoping Desk Stand, or A1020 Boom Arm).

The element that brings it all together is the Kensington Konnect application. This software is designed to help you produce the best video output for your conferencing needs. It’s meant for everyday users but has professional settings included. The camera can be used without it, but Kensington Konnect enhances the experience.

Features (for the system I selected)

W1050 1080p Webcam

• Optimized Video Technology: 1080p (1920×1080/30fps)—with improved low light performance.
• Fixed Focus with Versatile Positioning: Ensures you are always in focus and manually adjusts up to 37° vertically and 360° horizontally.
• Wide Video Frame with Privacy Cover: 95° diagonal field of view and an integrated lens cover.
• Simple & Powerful Kensington Konnect Software: Customize your video settings with the click of a button.
• Omnidirectional Stereo Microphones: Noise-reduction technology ensures you sound professional in every meeting and presentation.
• Wipe Down Protection: Meets MIL-STD-810H Method 504.3 Contamination by Fluids with disinfectants with no degradation.*  *No visual degradation or inability to use as directed upon test completion
• Industry Leading Warranty: Trusted reliability with a 2-year warranty.

L1000 Bicolor Ring Light with Webcam Mount

• Optimized Office Lighting: Distributes light evenly and eliminates harsh face shadows.
• Adjustable Color Temperature: Select the best light color for you (cool, natural or warm).
• Push Button Controls: Easily change lighting levels at the touch of a button.
• USB-A Powered: No outlet required—simply attach to any open USB-A port (5V/2.0A).
• Center-Ring Webcam Mount*: Perfect light distribution—even if you change the angle of your webcam. *Stand sold separately
• Flexible Positioning: Easily accommodate the best camera angles (360° horizontal; 200° vertical).
• Wipe Down Protection: Meets MIL-STD-810H Method 504.3 Contamination by Fluids with disinfectants with no degradation.* *No visual degradation or inability to use as directed upon test completion
• Industry Leading Warranty: A 2-year warranty is included.

A1020 Boom Arm

• Built for Video Conferencing: Accommodates microphones, webcams, and lights.
• Easily adjusts: Three friction hinges allow you to position the boom arm exactly how you need it.
• 360° Swivel Base: Easily rotate the entire boom arm.
• Professional Grade Mounting Options: Ensures a stable experience for any connected accessories. Includes hardware to support both c-clamp and through-hole fixed mounting.
• Cable Management Channel: Keeps your workspace organized.
• Wipe Down Protection: Meets MIL-STD-810H Method 504.3 Contamination by Fluids with disinfectants with no degradation.* *No visual degradation or inability to use as directed upon test completion
• Industry Leading Warranty: A 2-year warranty is included.

Pricing & Availability

This solution is designed to be turnkey and the user can customize their setup with the pieces they think will work best for them. These can be ordered through Kensington or through one of their authorized retailers.

Webcam

• W1050 1080p Fixed Focus Wide Angle Webcam $49.99
• W2000 1080p Auto Focus Webcam $59.99
• W2050 Pro 1080p Auto Focus Webcam $89.99

Lighting

• L1000 Bicolor Ring Light with Webcam Mount $39.99

Mount

• A1010 Telescoping Desk Stand $29.99
• A1000 Telescoping C- Clamp $44.99
• A1020 Boom Arm $89.99

Software

• Kensington Konnect FREE

User Experience

Since I’ve been working from home, my video conferencing system has been composed of a webcam and a set of headphones. I have the lighting set up in my office so that I don’t necessarily need a direct light on my face. I have a 34-inch monitor that provides a lot of light on its own as long as I have white pages up on my screen. That said, I do like having access to a ring light. Since the Kensington system is designed for you to pick and choose the pieces that make the most sense for you, let me outline my set-up.

• W1050 1080p Fixed Focus Wide Angle Webcam
• A1020 Boom Arm
• Ring Light (as needed)

I want to point out that with the boom arm, it becomes a challenge to use the ring light. The ring light’s mount is designed for use with the desk stand or c-clamp more than it is with the boom arm. There was an occasion when I placed it on a smartphone mini tripod and set it on my desktop. That worked really well and it might be good for Kensington to look for that as an add-on specifically for the ring light.

As I said, I have a 34-inch monitor as the main ‘window’ for my computer setup, and for a long time, I’ve had whatever webcam perched on top of the monitor. Because the monitor is curved, it’s not really designed to hold a webcam like that and it was always a precarious solution at best. In fact, the webcam was more ‘balanced’ than mounted there.

So, adding the boom arm in made a lot of sense for me. The arm is similar in style to the Blue Microphone Compass Boom Arm. It’s very sturdy and locks into place nicely. I clamped it onto my desk so that the arm actually sits behind my monitor. This is great because the cable for the webcam and the camera itself are both out of the way. The camera sits above my monitor so it’s a little hight than it has been in the past but it works for my purposes really well. The only wish I had was that the cable for the web camera was longer.

I was able to start using the camera directly out of the box without any special setup. Kensington’s Konnect software is a great add-on, but it’s not essential in order to use the webcam. As soon as I had it connected via USB, my system recognized it in QuickTime, ScreenFlow, Zoom, and a few other apps as a camera that was available for recording.

In the past two years, I’ve used two main webcams – the Jabra PanaCast and the Logitech HD Pro C920. Even though the PanaCast is capable of 4K video, I thought the video quality of the W1050 was much better. It does a really good job of creating a clear picture for the user and when used in conferencing circumstances, I saw a huge difference between my video feed and the others on the call. The W1050 is a really nice camera and it’s very affordable.

One of the features that I really like about it is that it is ‘fixed focus’ which means that it’s not going to shift on you even if you move around. When you are creating content, you want to have more control over focus, but on a conference call, you want to deal with as little as possible. So, having the focus fixed is a great feature in my opinion.

Konnect is mostly intuitive. I say mostly because the one feature I really want is being able to zoom/tilt/pan the camera angle so that people see me and not the entire room behind me. At first, I wasn’t able to find the feature. That’s because it appears below the camera preview window rather than in the sidebar like the other adjustments do. Also, those camera angle adjustments are very minimal. I have a third-party app that allows me to zoom in much farther than the Konnect software does.

That said, the third-party app is not compatible with Zoom the same way that Konnect is. With Konnect, I can have the video preview open in Zoom and see the adjustments I’m making in Konnect happen live. Konnect is a nice piece of software that works well with the webcam. I do wish that it could be more of a passive app and only live in the menu bar rather than be active in the dock.

Conclusion

Kensington has put together a really nice system for video conferencing. The newest web camera in their lineup is easy to use and affordable. It produces a great picture and even comes with a privacy screen that users can manually slide across the screen when its not in use to ensure that no apps are using it without your knowledge.

I love the ring light and mounting arm options that Kensington has rolled out with this camera. The Konnect App is great for dialing in the exact settings you want, but I do hope that Kensington adds more to it in the days ahead. Overall, it’s a great system.

For more information, visit Kensington.com, Facebook, and Twitter. 

One of the most important pieces of my workspace is my chair. I spend nearly 16 hours a day at my desk and working at my computer. So, I need a comfortable chair that works for me. A chair is a personal choice and everyone is going to want something different. Me? I like to have a wide seat that allows me to cross my legs. While I know that specific seated position isn’t necessarily good for a healthy posture, it’s one of the ways I’m most comfortable because I have sciatica problems.

One of my favorite chairs is from E-WIN Racing, a gaming furniture designer. The company started off as a manufacturer of car seats for luxury sports cars in 2001. As is the case with most innovations, E-WIN’s founder decided to develop a comfortable, stylish chair when he couldn’t find a suitable gaming chair. In 2015, the company was renamed E-WIN and the focus of its product designs turned to affordable, comfortable, durable gaming chairs.

E-WIN has several different product lines that feature EwinRacing Heavy Duty Gaming Chairs (550 lbs total capacity). Those product lines include the Knight series, Calling series, Hero series, Flash XL series, and the focus of this review, the Champion series.

DETAILS

The E-WIN Champion Series Ergonomic Gaming Chair has been new and improved for 2022. It features a fabric covering that is comfortable, lightweight, and breathable. It is made from dense 350 DSM short yarn. The fabric covering provides a maximum level of comfort – even over extended daily use – in the office and for gaming.

On the inside of the chair, the cushion is made with a high-density foam that is engineered to be two times heavier than regular foam. Based on its density, the cold cure foam that is used is very close to memory foam. It has elastic properties that prolong the comfort life of the chair and adds to the overall durability of the product.

The chair is fully adjustable and includes the following types of controls.

• 4D Adjustable Armrest – rotation (in and out), sideways, front/back and angle, and height adjustments
• Adjustable seat height
• Adjustable tilt with locking system
• 155º backrest tilt option for resting/napping

In addition to the adjustments, the newly redesigned Champion series chair also features hub-less casters that include all-metal ball bearings for soft, smooth glides and long-lasting use. The chair has a load capacity of 400 pounds and a class 4 hydraulic piston incorporated into its design.

Specs

• Recommended for people between 5”3’ – 6”5’; up to 400 lbs.
• Chair Back Height: 34.6 inches
• Seat Width: 21.3 inches
• Seat Depth: 21.7 inches
• Chair Type: Gaming/Office Chair
• Foam Type: High-Density Separated Foaming
• Foam Density: 55kg/m3
• Frame Color: Black
• Frame Construction: Metal
• Adjustable Armrests: 4D
• Mechanism Type: Multi-functional Tilt
• Tilt Lock: Yes
• Tilt Angle Lock: Yes
• Gas Lift Class: 4
• Chair/Seat Back Style: High-back
• Adjustable Back Angle: 85-155 Degrees
• Base Type: 5-star Wide Aluminum Base
• Caster Size & Material: 2″ Caster/PU

PRICING & AVAILABILITY

The E-WIN Champion Series Ergonomic Gaming Office Chair is available for purchase from ewinracing.com. Its retail price is $479 but it’s currently priced at $369. There is an option to pay installments through Klarna as well. Mac Sources readers get 20% off their purchase when they use the code “macsources” at checkout.

USER EXPERIENCE

All chairs from E-WIN require assembly. The box for the Champion gaming chair was pretty well beaten up by the time it got to me. There was no outer shipping carton. Just the product box. The chair weighs around 60 lbs and the box is large enough that two people should move it. When I opened the box, I found the chair base sitting on top of the parts pile. Everything was packaged well and there was protective wrap around all the parts.

Since this isn’t my first E-WIN chair, I took great care in unwrapping and setting out each piece before assembling it. I recommend taking the time to do this step because you can ensure that you have all the parts you should have before assembly begins. Putting the chair together is a pretty quick process. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps.

• Unscrew the bolts from the sides of the chair.
• Attach the seatback to the seat base.
• Place the frame covers on each side of the seat back and screw them into the frame.
• Attach the tilt mechanism to the bottom of the seat base.
• Snap the wheels into the bottom of the chair base.
• Set the hydraulic cylinder into the center of the 5-star base
• Place the seat assembly on the top of the hydraulic cylinder and turn the chair upright.
• Attach the headrest pillow and place the back cushion onto the chair.

Once the chair assembly is completed, it’s ready to be used. One of the main reasons I was intrigued by this chair is because I’m not used to seeing chairs classified as ‘gaming’ with a fabric cover. They are usually covered with leather or faux leather. The color choices for this chair include light gray, dark gray, and pink. I opted for the dark gray option.

The fabric covering is soft to the touch but definitely feels durable at the same time. When I first unwrapped the chair, it felt stiff. This did loosen up some but I think I prefer it feeling a little tighter because I think that will keep it newer longer. One issue I did find with the fabric was that it snags. The first step in the assembly process is to remove the bolts from the side of the chair. In the process of using the provided tools, the fabric was caught, and that caused it to snag. This was disappointing but not unexpected.

As far as comfort goes, I found the chair to be above average. The Champion gaming chair is a little smaller than my Flash XL Series gaming chair. The seat on the Champion series chair is about 1 inch shorter and 1 inch more narrow than the Flash XL chair. Even though I found the firm cushion and soft fabric covering comfortable, the difference in size did make it harder for me to be comfortably seated in the Champion series chair for long periods of time. I do find the Champion gaming chair enjoyable and would recommend it but the extra room in the Flash XL chair is really more for me.

CONCLUSION

When you are selecting a chair, you need to consider your purpose and then find the option that suits you best. What works for one person, may not work for another. I find the larger chairs to be more comfortable than the smaller ones that E-WIN designs but I do like the designs and innovations that are being incorporated into the new gaming chair releases. I am excited to see what E-WIN comes up with next.

Mac Sources readers get 20% off their purchase when they use the code “macsources” at checkout.

For more information, visit ewinracing.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Laptop desk provides ideal work-from-home space.

I must admit that working from home has its perks, but it can take some time to figure out how to set your workspace up to your liking. I have tried out numerous desks, chairs, and laptop accessories. It has been a bit of trial and error.

What works great one day can drive me crazy the next. Lately, I have found myself not wanting to sit at my desk all day. I like to spend time with my kids and dogs. When the weather is nice, I enjoy sitting outside. My previous lap desk was recently acquired by my daughter. 

DETAILS

The Nearpow Laptop Desk measures 23.6″ x 12.8″ x 25.2″. It’s has a high-density leather tabletop to provide the user with an anti-slip surface. The laptop desk comes with a portable book stand included and a storage drawer attached to the bottom of the desktop. The legs are adjustable and easily fold away for storage. The desk can be used for a number of purposes including a workstation, mini writing table, standing table, or even a food tray. The Laptop Desk weighs around 6 pounds and is very easy to move around.

USER EXPERIENCE

The laptop desk arrived in a plain, but descriptive cardboard box. It had plenty of styrofoam padding around the edges to protect the desk from shipping hazards. There is no assembly required, but you will have to fold the legs out until they snap into place in order to have the piece in laptop desk form.

The Nearpow Laptop Desk is sturdy, functional, and easy to use in your bed or on your couch. I have spent the last few days using the desk for work and school. I like the adjustable legs, the ability to tilt the desk, and there is plenty of room under the lap desk even at the lowest height. This makes the perfect napping spot for Newt or Ollie while I am working.

However, I think the drawer and the rubber stopper are my favorite parts. There’s plenty of room in the drawer for post-it notes, writing utensils, the rubber stopper, and even some candy. Just don’t tell my kids that I have a new place to stash some candy. The rubber stopper gives me a bit of security when the desk is tilted and I am working.

I don’t have to worry about things sliding off. Most of the time, I forget the stopper is even there. The anti-slip leather desktop is spacious enough to hold my Macbook and notebook. This allows me to easily take notes for class. My only complaint is that sometimes it can be tricky to adjust the legs. It took me a couple of tries to get the legs to click into place as I was raising or lowering the height. 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Overall, I do really like this laptop desk. I will continue using it when I don’t feel like sitting at my desk. 

Powerful handheld USB-C rechargeable vacuum

Even though I am a fan of knick-knacks, I absolutely abhor dust.  In addition to dusting wipes and an air purifier, I have recently started using a rechargeable AFMAT Air Duster and COLOCORAL Handheld Vacuum.  I found that a weekly spot clean allowed me to enjoy my out-of-the-box Funko Pops without immediately noticing the settled filth.  Luckily, the Colorcoral vacuum fulfills one of the ultimate Dad Joke Paradoxes; the better the vacuum, the more they suck!

The COLOCORAL Vacuum Cleaner arrived in a 7 3/4 inches long by 6 1/4 inches wide by 2 1/2 inches tall clean, white retail package.  You will find the COLORCORAL name, within a red rectangle, and the generic Vacuum Cleaner name along the top of the cover panel.  Along the bottom of the panel, I found four product defining icons (Keyboard Cleaning, Auto Detailing, PC Dusting, Home & OFFICE), as well as a few product manufacturing labels. 

The main focal point of the cover was a side-view image of the device, the extension nozzle, and brush.  The front flap provided the product name, the top panel was unadorned, and the panel toward my left listed the same icons as the cover.  The right side panel listed the company/product name along the top of the panel, a product UPC barcode along the bottom right, and a useful parameters table along the bottom left: 1. 60W Power, 7.4V Voltage, 2000mAh Lithium battery, USB Cord Type-C, Hepa Filter.

Lastly, the back panel was left matte white.  Despite the appeal of the overall display, the clean white color, the image of the device, and the descriptive icons, the product lacked a catchy name like “DustBuster 5000.”  Even though the name may seem a tad bit silly, a clever product name could increase product attention. 

I lifted the front flap, opened the box, and removed the Users Manual, extra HEPA filter, 5 7/16 inches long by 7/8 inches diameter vacuum nozzle, 2 1/8 inches long vacuum nozzle brush, 40 inches long USB-A to USB-C cable, and the 11.49-ounce handheld vacuum.  The device measured 6 7/8 inches long by 5 7/8 inches tall and had a 1 11/16 inches diameter by 3 7/8 inches long handle. 

When I examined the vacuum from the side, I appreciated the silver COLORCORAL name and the 1 5/8 inches long by 1/8 inches tall orange accent.  The upper suction section extended obtusely from the handle base and met the removable HEPA filter segment 1-inch from the handle.  To remove the HEPAA filter segment, grip the semi-translucent grey 3 3/4 inches long by 2 3/8 inches diameter segment and rotate it counterclockwise until you feel a click.

To reattach the section, align the tabs and rotate clockwise until you feel another click.  The rounded handle felt comfortable within my right hand and the silver trigger aligned perfectly with my pointer finger.  

I installed the vacuum nozzle with brush onto the vacuum, located the USB-C charging port at the base of the handle, plugged the USB-C cable into the vacuum, and then the USB-A cable into a standard USB-A 5V/1A output charging block.  While the device charged, I turned to the instruction manual to learn more about the device. 

The second page provided a labeled side-view diagram of the vacuum (HEPA filter, Light, locking button, USB Charger, dust compartment on/off switch, main body), while the third and fourth pages provided information about the use/charging (up to 6 hours to charge) of the vacuum.  They recommended checking the condition of the filter, making sure the device was charged, and selecting the correct nozzle with each use of the device.

Additionally, the manual recommended charging the vacuum for a full 12 hours before the initial use.  The fifth panel described the methods to clean the vacuum: 1. Unlock the dust compartment. 2. Remove the HEPA cartridge. 3. Dispose of the dust. 4. Rinse off the filter with wet wipes or running water. 6. Dry the HEPA filter.  The manual did not provide information about returning the filter to the dust compartment or about the need to reattach the compartment to the vacuum. 

The sixth panel provided some useful product notes and some information about after-sale service.  The final panel provided a specification table like the one on the outer package side panel. 

Once the device was fully charged, I removed the charging cable, gripped the handle, and depressed the trigger button.  The 82.6-decibel vacuum provided more suction than I had initially imagined.  For the first test, I removed the brush attachment and cleaned the cupholders, dash, and doors of my Dodge Ram and Nissan NV.  I was impressed with the suction, with the maneuverability, and with the dust chamber. 

I dumped out the debris, reattached the chamber/filter, then added the brush for additional tests.  Next, I used the vacuum to clean the dust/debris from within the crevices of my desktop keyboard and from my MacBook Pro.  I then used the vacuum to dust my office shelves and my Funko Pops.  Lastly, I used it to pick up some sawdust from my bandsaw after cutting pinewood derby cars. I found it was quite convenient to utilize the small hand tool instead of pulling out a large shop vac and air compressor. 

In total, the battery should last the average user weeks to months with general use or approximately 30 minutes of continual utility. To test this, I turned the device on and let it run until it turned off at 35 minutes. I then charged it for 5:45 until the LED extinguished and repeated the test. The second time the test was conducted, the vacuum lasted 32 minutes before turning off. I loved the ability to add and remove the accessory brush, and the ability to clean the HEPA filter.

The handheld portable nature of the vacuum allowed for quick pick-ups when my kids spilled sprinkles on the table, and another when they spilled glitter.  In addition to the vacuum, I purchased a set of 3 extra HEPA filters.  I loved that I could remove one filter, clean it, replace it with another, and allow it to dry.  Additionally, you can plug the vacuum into power in a pinch and use the device while charging via USB-C. Lastly, removing the dust cover allowed for easy storage of the device.

PROS

• Lightweight
• Rechargeable/Cordless
• Reusable/Washable HEPA Filter
• Accessory Brush head. 
• Strong Suction
• USB-C charging

Stop buying canned air. Instead upgrade to Portable, Rechargeable, Cordless Air.

I decided long ago that I would not be a generalized Funko Pop Collector.  Instead, I wanted to be a collector of personal nostalgia.  Whereas some wish to keep their Funko collection in-box, I have preferred to enjoy my figures au natural, out-of-the-box.  Unfortunately, it does not matter which way you choose to display your favorite vinyls because dust is the bane of any knick-knack collector. 

Between air purifiers, canned duster, wet cloths, and dusting rags, I have struggled to keep my collection clean.  Not only are the cans of duster (refrigerant, not air) expensive, they are not reusable and must either be thrown away or hopefully recycled once expended.  Tired of adding to the landfill, I looked for a reusable solution and landed upon the AFMAT rechargeable duster.  

The AFMAT Cordless Air Duster arrived in a 7 1/8 inches long by 2 5/8 inches wide by 3 7/8 inches tall cardboard box. The cover provided the AFMAT name along the top left, “Air Duster” along the middle, and a sleek photo-quality image of the duster along the mid-right section.  Within the grey bar along the lower section of the cover panel, you will find four product-defining icons: 1. Rechargeable. 2. Portable. 3. Strong Airflow. 4. Eco Friendly.

I liked the white on gray color scheme and felt that the design was quite visually appealing.  Not only did the imagery provide the needed attention grab, the product name and logos filled in the remaining curiosities.  The black-colored top panel listed the AFMAT name along the center, an AFMAT sticker, a website link to authenticate the product (www.afmat.com) toward my right, and recorded two ways to utilize the duster: 1. Press the Button Twice. 2. Long Press the Button. 

Both of the black-colored side panels provided a product specification table.  One side provided information about the Power Supply 5V DC, 2A input, 0.66 pounds weight, and 3.3×2.x7in product size.  The other provided information about the 6000mAh battery, 10W electric power, 3 hour charging time, and <80dB sound output.  

The second side panel and the back panel listed information in a character language that I did not recognize.  If you have not yet utilized the camera feature through Google Translate, I highly encourage it.  The camera feature will change the words you see into the language you wish to view.  In this case, I tried Chinese first and then Japanese. 

When I selected Japanese to English, the characters disappeared, and the English words appeared over the characters.  For example, the rear panel characters changed into “Air Duster,” USB Rechargeable, Convenient to Carry, Powerful, and then Eco (went in and out of focus).  The fourth through sixth panels of the instruction manual were also interpreted using this technique.    The translation may be a bit choppy, but it did a great job at detailing the intended meaning. 

To access the duster, I lifted the top panel, folded out the flaps, and removed the 11.11 oz, 3 1/4 inches wide by 7 1/8 inches tall by 2 1/8 inches thick device.  Next, I removed the 4 7/8 inches long by 1-inch wide accessory suction-brush attachment (1-inch long bristles), a small bilingual user manual, and a generous 41 1/2 inches long USB-A to USB-Micro charging cable. 

The manual provided an easy to use product contents table, followed by a specifications table (DC5V power, 2A input, 10W rated power, 33000RPM motor speed, 0.98Oz-1.16 oz blowing force, 3 hour charging time, 0.5hour continuous working time, 14F-122F working temp, <80dB noise, ABS/PP materials, and weight/dimensions as listed above).  The subsequent panels provided a labeled ink outline drawing of the back and side of the duster, followed by a simple how-to charge section. 

The manual then offered a few notes for the user.  First, the duster is not intended to work while charging.  Next, charge the device and avoid wet environments.  Lastly, the manual provided a how-to-use segment followed by warranty information. 

Before my initial run, I plugged the device into a standard 5v/2a USB-A port on my multi-USB hub.  The LED along the side of the device powered-on and then extinguished after about 20 minutes.  With the device fully charged, I removed the nozzle at the front of the duster and placed it into the airflow outlet port. 

To power on the device, I found that I could press and hold the finger trigger for continuous power output.  When desired, I could double press the button to free up my hand from holding the trigger.  When done, I could either release the button or press it once again to end the continuous mode. 

As a test, I set a votive candle on my bathroom counter and moved sequentially backward until I could no longer blow out the candle.  I found I could extinguish the candle at approximately five feet away.  As a second test, I compared a can of duster to the AFMAT device to clean off my band saw after cutting out a pinewood derby car for scouts. 

Although the device did not compare to my air compressor, it was more than convenient not to have to set everything up for a quick dusting.  As a third test, I took the device to my work office and sprayed off the shelves while also using a slightly damp microfiber cloth.  I used the device to clean off my figurines, to blow dust/debris from my keyboard, and enjoyed a much cleaner workspace.  

I was pleased with the duration of the output, the force of the output, and the shape/feel of the duster.  Even though the device has a 30-minute runtime, I found that this would last for several weeks on a single charge.  Thanks to the rechargeable USB-micro input, I was able to keep the device powered for the next round of dusting by plugging it into a free USB-A port on my computer. 

The force of the air output was sufficiently strong to stir up dust and strong enough to knock over the vinyl figures.  When paired with my recent portable ColorCoral Vacuum purchase (review to follow), I found I could keep my work area much tidier.

For more information, visit AFMAT Cordless Air Duster and Facebook.

Folding Table is useful for multiple purposes and a good investment.

My home office is used for many different functions. It’s first and foremost an office where I do my daily work. Second, it’s a place to relax and watch TV or read a book. I have a large computer desk and several places to store books, which I love being surrounded by. One of the ancillary purposes of this room is for photography. It helps to have different surfaces to use as backgrounds and I decided not long ago to add a small table to my workspace for that very purpose. This small folding table/computer desk by Insputer was perfect for this reason. 

DETAILS

The Insputer Folding Table is designed specifically for small spaces. It has adjustable legs and a small shelf below the tabletop for storage. The table can be used as a writing desk, laptop desk, sewing table, studying, or any other task that one needs a sturdy table for. The frame is made from thick steel tubing that is powder-coated for durability. The tabletop is a 3/4 inch thick wood board and has a high resistance to scratches and friction. The table measures 31” W x 16” D x 30” H and it weighs 22.7 pounds. The legs are foldable and the feet are adjustable so that you can ensure the table is level on any flooring surface.

USER EXPERIENCE

The table didn’t require any type of assembly as it came preassembled and the only setup that was needed was unfolding the legs and adjusting the feet. The table was shipped in a cardboard box and packed with styrofoam packaging. This table is only sold on Amazon and I don’t typically mention that except that there was a quality control problem with the unit I received. I was surprised to find the table damaged when I removed it from its packaging.

One of the corners The exterior box and interior box were both intact as was the styrofoam packaging. That means the table was damaged before it was packaged for shipping. It hasn’t affected the table’s performance and actually hasn’t been a problem for photos either, but it was still disappointing that the quality control for the table wasn’t stellar. 

Aside from the damage, the table has proven to be very sturdy. It’s a small table, but it’s very heavy. I don’t know what its maximum load capacity is, but I’ve not had any issues with any items I’ve placed on it. I’ve used this table as a photography background and also as a catch-all table. Because of its compact size, it has been great in my office, which is a smaller space.

I could see someone using it as a temporary desk, but I don’t really see it as 100% functional for an adult’s workspace. Kids might get good use out of it since it’s a smaller table, but it’s really very small and not very practical as a computer desk. 

CONCLUSION

The Insputer Folding Table is a really nice all-purpose piece of furniture. It’s very sturdy and because of its smaller size, it can easily be used anywhere. I think I would caution anyone against using it as a desk as it’s a little too small for that use. 

Creative neon lighting for workspaces.

I recently remodeled my home office and decided to add some creative lighting to it. I’ve always been a fan of colorful lighting devices. They have always reminded me of Christmas – my favorite holiday. So, when I decided to make a change in my office, I searched for some unique lighting devices on Amazon and came across this Lightning Bolt Neon Sign. 

DETAILS

This light is called a neon light, but it’s actually made out of LEDs. The structure is made of hazard-free flexible neon tubes and plastic. It is environmentally safe and actually produces low heat – even after long periods of use. Because this neon light is made from non-hazardous materials, it is safe to use anywhere in your house – even in a baby’s room. 

The light doesn’t require an assembly to install. It all comes in one piece. There is a small hook that hangs down from the top of the lightning bolt frame that is intended for hanging on the wall. The light is powered one of two ways – by USB (no wall adapter is included) or by batteries (requires 3 AA batteries; not included). There is a power switch on the battery compartment that controls the light whether or not you power the light via batteries. There is a thin transparent cable that extends from the light’s frame to the battery box and then out of the battery box to the USB plug. Once the light is powered, you can simply flip the switch on or off to control it. 

USER EXPERIENCE

The light came in a plain cardboard box. I’m not sure if it’s sold on retail shelves at all, but the box is nondescript. There was a sticker on it that indicated which neon light design should be enclosed. The manufacturer, LYGZTing, had several designs available including the lightning bolt, lips, and a cloud. I really only had one issue with the light and that was the fact that the cable couldn’t be hidden easier. I am a stickler for cable management and hate having visible wires. Even though the power cable for this light is thin and transparent, it is still visible. Where I ended up putting the light, I was able to string the cable to a shelf on the bookcase that was on the same wall and then hide the cable along the bottom of the shelves and the frame of the bookcase. 

As I mentioned above, the light is either battery-powered or USB-powered. I knew that I didn’t want to use batteries because I would have to change the batteries out when they died. I ended up plugging the light directly into a USB port on a wall power strip because it meant I could use one less power outlet. I did try using a simple mobile phone power adapter as well and it worked just fine, too. I also tacked the battery box to the underside of one of the bookshelves with some 3M adhesive strips. I turned the light on in the morning and then off at night before bed so that it’s not on overnight. I found the easiest way to do this was to just flip the switch on the battery box, which does work even if you aren’t using batteries. So the box is mounted in such a way that the switch is easily accessible. 

I have to admit that when I first found the listing for this light on Amazon, I wasn’t sure if it would look good in my office. You really couldn’t get a good feel for how bright the light was from the description. Once I got it installed, I was pleasantly surprised with the glow the light cast on my bookshelf and just how bright it is in the room. I have had the lightning bolt hung up in a couple different spots in my office since I first got it and now it’s an essential part of my setup.  

CONCLUSION

If you enjoy RGB lighting, this neon light is a great addition to any workspace. It’s subtle enough to not be annoying and bright enough to provide soft lighting when no other lights are on in the room. The Lightning Bolt Neon Light is a very creative piece of lighting that can really bring a room together. 

A sleek lighting option for your workspace.

I’ve been working from home for more than a year now. I know many other people are in the same boat as me and constantly trying to make their workspace feel like ‘work home.’ I like my desk to be comfortable, but productive in nature. I like having all my devices close at hand and love having plenty of light. I do have some decorative lighting options on my desk (RGB desk pad and RGB light strip behind my monitor), but don’t have a direct desk lamp installed — until now. The Lastar LED Desk Lamp is the latest edition to my workspace and I’m really excited to be using it. 

DETAILS

Lastar is a brand that focuses on smart lighting products for consumers. The LED Desk Lamp provides up to 400 LM of brightness for reading, working, and writing. The lamp features a color temperature range of 2800-3200K; 4000-4500K; 5000-5500K – depending on the mode you are using. The lamp comes with its own power cable that provides 10V 1.2A of power. There is a USB-A port on the backside of the lamp that can be used to charge other devices. 

The lamp has an adjustable design and can fold between 90º and 180º. It has responsive touch controls that include a power button, color temperature button, timer, night light button, and brightness adjustment bar. The lamp comes with a 12-month warranty (from the date of purchase). 

USER EXPERIENCE

The LED Desk Lamp came in a plain brown cardboard box. The outside of the box does have the name of the product on it along with the main details of the lamp. This type of packaging is fine for retail warehouses, but not optimal for retail shelves. Should Lastar decide to distribute its products to retail stores, it may want to rethink its packaging so it is a little more appealing. 

The lamp is preassembled and there is no complicated assembly to go through in order to use the lamp. The only thing that needs to happen to operate the lamp is to plug it into power and tap the power button. I’m a big fan of the small footprint the lamp leaves on the desktop. Since it folds up, it can be stored easily when it’s not in use. The controls are very easy to understand. I especially like the brightness adjustment bar. You simply run your finger across it to turn the brightness up or down. I was really surprised at how bright the lamp actually got. 

The color temperature options are quite nice. Sometimes you want more of a daylight color than a warm yellow glow. Fortunately, you can have both with this lamp. I do wish that there was a display that indicated which setting you were on. Aside from that, it’s a great lamp. 

CONCLUSION

If you are looking for a minimal, easy-to-operate lamp that produces great lighting, I would recommend this LED lamp. It’s affordable, easy to use, and produces awesome light.

Over the past 10 years, I have tried many different styles of office and gaming chairs trying to find the ideal seating option for my office. I honestly lost count of all the different chairs that have graced my office. They all had great features about them but none of them seemed to be the perfect fit for me. I have a few different medical ailments including sciatica inflammation, arthritis in my knees, and sometimes a shoulder strain. All of these issues compound and are made worse when I sit in a chair for 8 hours a day that isn’t a good fit. For a couple of years now, I have toyed with the idea of moving to the Aeron Chair from Herman Miller. My hesitancy was solely based in the expense of the chair. The base model with no customization is $1,445.00 (at the time of publishing). Eventually I came around to the conclusion that since I spend most of my day at my desk, I needed to make sure I was not exacerbating my medical conditions and making them worse. I also came to the realization that I had probably already spent more than $2,000 trying to find the right chair over the past 10 years (one chair per year at $200 per chair for 10 years). So, I made the jump and placed the order for the Aeron Chair.

DETAILS

The Aeron Chair is specifically designed to be ergonomic. Herman Miller has sold more than 7 million of these chairs and it has “set the benchmark for ergonomic comfort” according to their website. The chair’s design provides support for a range of postures, activities, and body types. It features some outstanding design qualities including:

• Pellicle suspension material
• Patented PostureFit SL back support – makes it possible for users to have an ‘ideal sit’ that includes having the chest open, shoulders back, and the pelvis tilted slightly forward
• State-of-the-art adjustability – arms, seat height, depth, and recline
• Breathable fabric keeps you cool and comfortable.
• Three chair sizes mean the most comfort to the largest range of users.
• Adjustable PostureFit SL pads provide lumbar support and stabilize the base of the spine.
• Harmonic Tilt supports the way you naturally move, for a smooth and balanced recline.
• Fully adjustable arms (height, depth, and angle) allow for a custom fit.
• Now available in an all-black Onyx colorway, our darkest shade yet.

The Aeron Chair is also eco-friendly and features Indoor Advantage Gold certification. The chair is available in three sizes – A (small; weight capacity 300lbs), B (medium; weight capacity 350lbs), and C (large; weight capacity 350lbs). There are several options that a user has when ordering the chair, too. Those options include:

• Frame/Base (graphite/graphite, graphite/polished aluminum, mineral/satin aluminum, mineral/polished aluminum, black/polished aluminum, black/onyx ultra matte)
• Size (A, B, or C)
• Back Support (basic, adjustable lumbar support, adjustable Posturefit SL)
• Tilt (standar, tilt limiter and seat angle)
• Arms (height-adjustable, fully adjustable, stationary)
• Armpad (standard, leather)
• Caster (carpet, multi-surface with quiet roll)

Each option aside from the standard base features, does add to the bottom line of the chair’s cost. Based on the different combinations, the chair can have a top base price (before taxes) of $1,995.00. While this shouldn’t be the absolute deciding factor on a chair like this, the price does need to be included within the details of the chair. I do also want to mention that along with the expense of the chair, Herman Miller has a fantastic return policy. They will accept all returns within 30 days of purchase – even custom ordered merchandise.

USER EXPERIENCE

After placing my order, I ended up having to wait several weeks for the chair to be delivered. This was because each Aeron Chair is custom-built when it’s ordered. I also ordered a rare color combination so that took even longer. Even though I had a delay in receiving the chair, I did receive good order updates from Herman Miller and their customer service was always kind and helpful when I contacted them for updates.

One of the massive appeals of the Aeron Chair – and any Herman Miller chair really – is that it arrives to you pre-assembled. Over the years, I’ve spent hours assembling gaming and office chairs so much that I could probably do it in my sleep. It was incredibly refreshing to just open the box and find the chair completely assembled. I just had to pull the plastic wrapping off of the back and wheels and it was good to go. It was seriously the best unboxing experience of any office or gaming chair to this point. I have a included gif below that shows you just how the chair arrived and was unboxed. It was a beautiful experience.

Since the chair arrived assembled, I was able to begin using it immediately. I was immediately taken when the beauty of the design of the chair. It can really fit into any type of office decor, but I think it looks particularly nice with my technology-heavy setup. The chair is comfortable and I noticed a difference right away in how I felt sitting in it versus other chairs. A lot of back, neck, and shoulder pain/stiffness I usually felt at the end of a day was not noticeable when using the Aeron Chair.

The only issue I had at first was with the front lip of the chair’s seat. The edge of the chair where my legs hang off was an issue for me because it was putting pressure on places in my legs that caused additional pain in my knees and connected muscle groups. I did some research and discovered that the Embody Chair (also by Herman Miller) might be a better ‘fit’ for my body since I have wider legs and hips. The Embody Chair has a slightly wider seat base and I thought that might benefit me. The frame of the seat and back are made from what feels like hard, molded plastic. I was concerned that maybe the base wasn’t wide enough for my long-term comfort and that the hard frame wouldn’t relax. Because of that, I started to second-guess my decision.

Since the chair arrived on June 24, 2021, the chair has loosened a bit and I am more comfortable in it. It forms better to my body than I expected and after nearly three months of using it, I am really glad I stuck with it. I would say that if you are planning on trying out the Aeron, make sure to give yourself enough time to truly break it in for yourself. It was very much like a pair of new shoes for me. At first, it was a little tight and I thought about giving up before it started giving me problems, but after using the chair consistently for a period of time, it started to loosen up in the right places. If you do have concerns about the seat base being wide enough, the Embody Chair might be a good secondary option for you.

CONCLUSION

All in all, the Aeron is a great chair. It’s been a godsend for me because I can actually complete a day of work and not feel like I’ve been hit by a truck at the end of it. I think most people would scoff at the idea of the Aeron Chair because of its expense, but how can you put a price on your personal comfort and health? For me, the decision to invest in this chair was made based on my personal health needs and in the end, I’m really glad that I moved forward with it. Herman Miller has been a great company to work with thus far and I can recommend the Aeron Chair to anyone – especially those who have fought with their desk chairs for years like I did.

For more details, visit Herman Miller, Facebook, and Twitter.

A chair that’s a good fit.

Finding just the right chair can be a little like Goldilocks trying to find porridge that is just the right temperature. There are several factors that come into play when you are chair shopping. You have to find something that is comfortable for you. It also needs to be able to meet your daily use needs. And let’s not forget — the chair quite literally needs to be a good ‘fit’ for you and your body type. When I started looking at desk chairs a few years ago, I quickly found that gaming chairs were a great choice for me since I spend an average of 12 hours a day behind my computer. After I narrowed down the chair field to ‘gaming’ style chairs, then I had to find the fit for me. I’m a bigger person – plus size if you will – and so I needed something that could accommodate me for long periods of time. It can be exhausting trying to wade through the choices out there. That’s why I’m glad that Vertagear has three different options for people to choose from in their P-Series product line. 

The P-Series chairs are designed to be comfortable, easy to assemble, and have superior durability over other gaming chairs. This product line is the ‘racing series’ style gaming chairs. It’s a very popular style and each model is designed for a specific type of user. The PL1000 is the ‘entry’ level gaming chair. It’s budget-friendly and is the smallest of the three models. The PL4500 is a step up from the PL1000. It has HygennX included for odor control and anti-bacterial properties. The chair is slightly larger than the PL1000. It can hold up to 260lbs and is designed for a person up to 6’6” in height. The PL6000 is the largest option in the P-Series lineup and is considered a ‘big and tall’ chair. It can hold someone who is up to 350lbs and 6’8” in height. This P-Series chair ended up being the one that was best suited for me. 

CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS

• UPHR Foam: The Ultra Premium High Resilience Foam can withstand 62% more weight per cubic foot than standard high resilience foam. The foam prolongs the lifespan of the chair. 
• Penta RS1 Casters: The casters are engineered to be carefree and are coated with polyurethane and colored to match the chair. 
• Steel Frame: The skeleton of the chair is made with steel and includes a 10-year warranty. 
• Gas Lift: The PL6000 is supported with an industrial-grade class 4 gas lift. 
• PUC: This is the material that covers the chair. It’s a combination of PVC and PU faux leather. It’s durable but has the softness of PU. 
• Aluminum Alloy 5-star Base: The base is lightweight but strong enough to support the structure of the chair. 

FEATURES

• Lumbar & Neck Support: Ergonomic support is provided by the memory foam pillows for the lower back (lumbar region) and the neck. Both cushions are easily removable and adjustable. 
• Adjustable 4D Armrests: The armrests adjust in four directions – forward/back, left/right, up/down, and it rotates. This versatile adjustability provides ergonomic support for your arms to help prevent sore shoulders. 
• Adjustable Backseat: The back can adjust between 80-140º to provide the optimal sitting position for the user. 
• Adjustable Tilt with Locking System: The chair’s tension can be easily adaptable to your body weight. The tilting function allows the user to lean back and it can be locked in 4 different positions. 
• Adjustable Seat Height: The seat height is controlled by the gas lift and the user can adjust the height so that it’s relative to their desk. 

USER EXPERIENCE 

The PL6000 comes in a large cardboard box. It’s not pre-assembled, but Vertagear makes putting the chair together easy. The description that is provided through Vertagear’s website states that the chair can be put together in seconds, but it’s not exactly that quick. I would say that it might take 20-30 minutes from box to chair. The first thing I did was to take everything out of the box and make sure all the parts are there. Vertagear includes all the tools needed for assembly. One of my favorite tools that is included is a hex wrench with a built-in handle. It makes it much easier to tighten the bolts on the chair. 

If you’ve ever assembled an office chair, you shouldn’t have any issue with putting this one together. The steps include:

1. Inserting the casters into the 5-star steel base.
2. Inserting the gas lift into the base. 
3. Attaching the lift control mechanism to the seat.  
4. Setting the seat onto the gas lift. 
5. Sliding the seat back onto the seat. 
6. Screwing the bolts into the sides of the seat back – through the metal braces. 
7. Placing the pillows. 

That’s pretty much it. Because this is a big and tall chair, all the parts are heavy-duty in nature. The base and frame are engineered with industrial-strength metals. The information on the Vertagear website states that it can withstand a max load of 440 pounds. There is a note though that says, “Max load was tested by an independently certified safety laboratory. The PL6000 is ergonomically designed and recommended for those 5’9” to 6’8” tall, up to 350 lbs.”  While I understand the reasoning for specifying all this information, I sort of wish they would only put the ‘real’ max limit with the specs. I just feel as though including both of these weight limits is confusing for the consumer. 

The chair is supportive and the cushion in the seat is firm. While it’s not ‘comfortable’ by some users’ standards, I actually prefer the seat to feel supportive and not ultra-soft like memory foam. The thing that really stood out to me though was the fact that the seat was only 21 inches wide. Some big and tall chairs I’ve used have had a seat that was at least 23 inches wide. So, the 21-inch seat caught me off guard. 

CONCLUSION

The PL6000 gaming chair is a comfortable, supportive seating option for work or home. It is very easy to assemble and it’s competitively priced with other gaming chairs. I would get it again and I would recommend it to others looking for a gaming chair. I would, however, prefer that the seat be a bit wider. 

For more information, vertagear.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

A solid chair for beginners.

As someone who suffers from chronic back pain, I can unequivocally say that the single most important piece of office furniture I have is my desk chair. As someone who works an 8-hour day behind a computer and then completes another 3-4 hours of computer work in the evening, a solid, comfortable chair is something I desperately need. I’ve spent a lot of time doing research and testing out a variety of desk chairs so that I can find the precise one that makes the most sense for me. As it turns out, gaming chairs, which are built for long-term use, tend to be the chairs that hold up the best. I recently had the opportunity to test out the Vertagear PL4500 Gaming Chair and while it has proven to be a solid seating option, I thought I would check out the other chairs in the P-Line from Vertagear. With that in mind, here are my thoughts on the PL1000 Gaming Chair. 

DETAILS

The PL1000 is part of the P-Line of chairs from Vertagear. This product line is designed as the ‘racing series’ line and features effortless single-person assembly, superior durability, and unmatched design and comfort. The PL1000 is the entry-level gaming chair in this Racing Series from Vertagear. It has several color variations including black, black/blue, black/green, black/purple, black/red, and black/white. It has a weight capacity of 240 pounds and a height capacity of 6’2”. The upholstery is made with PUC, which is a combination of PVC and polyurethane (faux-leather). The material is durable and provides a low-maintenance option for cleaning. 

The foam on the inside is a combination of a surface layer (ultra-premium high resiliency – UPHR) and a foundation layer (PU foam). The surface layer responds and contours when a user sits on it and the foundation layer provides long-lasting firmness. The casters are motorsports-inspired and coated with PU for soft, smooth gliding on any surface. The colors are made to match the colors of the chair. The base is made from metal and is a 5-star style base. The frame of the chair is also made of steel and includes a 10-year warranty. The gas lift is a class-4 industrial-grade lift.   

The chair is designed to provide comfort and ‘posture perfect ergonomics.’ There is lumbar and neck support provided (lumbar built-in; an adjustable neck pillow attached) and thanks to the gas lift, the seat has adjustable heights. The backseat can tilt between 80º – 140º, which allows the user to rest. The armrests are also adjustable and the tilt mechanism’s tension can be adjusted and locked into place.

USER EXPERIENCE

The Vertagear gaming chairs are known for their effortless assembly. They are designed with ‘slide-in’ hardware that makes it easy for one person to put together unassisted. Now, the description on the website states that the chair can be assembled in seconds. I wouldn’t go quite that far as it took me about 22 minutes from opening the box to complete assembly. I will say that Vertagear does make the process easy. It’s pretty straightforward – especially if you have put chairs like this together before. The ‘slide-in’ hardware really just applies to the braces that join the seat and the back of the chair. The braces slide up into the back and then you use a bolt (provided) to lock the two together. 

Aside from the bolts that connect the seat and the back, there are four bolts that attach the lift mechanism to the bottom of the seat. Those bolts are pre-attached to the seat and have to be removed before the lift can be attached. The other parts of the assembly do not require bolts. The casters pop into the 5-star base; the gas lift sits into the center of the 5-star base; and the seat rests on top of the gas lift. The arms of the chair are already attached to the seat so the assembly steps really are minimal. It’s not a complicated process and as I said, if you have put chairs like this together, you shouldn’t have any issues. 

The PL1000 is the smallest of the P-Series chairs. It measures 20.5” (backrest width – shoulder) x 21.2” (seat width) x 17.7” (seat depth) and weighs 47.4 pounds. In comparison to the next chair in the P-Series lineup (the PL4500), the size is 20.8” (backrest width – shoulder) x 21” (seat width) x 17.5” (seat depth) and weighs 58.9 pounds. The PL1000 also does not have a heavy-duty base and does not have HygennX. The 5-star base on the PL1000 is made from metal, but the PL4500 is made from Aluminum Alloy and the armrest on the PL1000 is only the 2D style while the PL4500 is the 3D style. They also have different weight capacities. Now since the PL1000 is the entry-level seat in this product line, it’s also the least expensive and retails for around $280 (regular price; at the time of this article publishing). 

One thing I noticed when I was reviewing the specs of this chair was that the weight capacity doesn’t quite make sense. Usually, when you see a weight capacity, there is only one weight. The P-Series chairs have their weight capacities listed as “Max Load” and “Recommended Weight”. With the PL1000 the Max Load is listed as 330lbs and the Recommended Weight is 240lbs. I suppose this means that the chair can handle the higher weight, but that’s best suited for the lower weight for longevity. 

As far as comfort goes, I would have to give the PL1000 a solid 6/10. The seat is a little too firm for my taste, but the rest of the ergonomic features help make up for the overly firm cushioning. I like that it has the tilt function so that you can stretch out your back as needed throughout the day. I also like the included neck pillow that can be used or removed as needed. 

CONCLUSION

The PL1000 is a decent entry-level racing-style gaming chair. Vertagear makes it easy to assemble and if you are looking for something at an affordable price, this is a good chair for that purpose. Does it have all the features of the upper-level P-Series chairs? No, but it does have the same style and is a good starter gaming chair. 

For more information, vertagear.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Comfortable, durable chair for long-term work.

After working from home for almost an entire year, I can say with certainty that the most important piece of office equipment I have is a comfortable chair. I learned a long time ago that investing in long-term comfort helps you not only physically, but also mentally as well. You aren’t constantly worrying about how you are positioned if you have a solid chair and if you select the right one, it will last for a long time. I started using gaming chairs several years ago because they are designed for long-term use. Gaming chairs have to be built for comfort, stability, and durability because gamers typically spend many, many hours sitting in them. The Vertagear PL4500 is designed for just this purpose.

DETAILS

The PL4500 Gaming Chair is part of the racing series of chairs by Vertagear. The P-Line is meant to provide unmatched design and comfort for the user. It’s also supposed to have an effortless assembly that can be completed by a single person. There are three chairs in the P-Line – the PL1000, PL4500, and PL6000. The PL4500 is designed with a high backrest and has an industrial-grade metal base. The chair features the HygennX Technology that helps to limit odor and increase breathability. The heavy-duty metal base frame is engineered with industrial-grade metal so that it supports up to 400lbs. The PL4500 is ergonomically designed and recommended for individuals up to 6’6 tall who weigh up to 260lbs. The pieces are designed with ‘slide-in hardware for hassle-free assembly. 

The chair is made from Ultra Premium High Resilience Foam (UPHR) which prolongs the lifespan of the chair, Penta RS1 Casters that are coated with polyurethane for a smooth glide, a steel frame for long-term durability, an industrial-grade class-4 gas lift, PU faux—leather, and an aluminum alloy 5-star base. The PL4500 comes with lumbar and neck support pillows and has 3D adjustable armrests. The back will adjust between 80-140º and features a tilt with a locking system. The seat height is also adjustable. 

USER EXPERIENCE

The PL4500 arrived in a large cardboard box. This is not the first gaming chair I’ve assembled, so I was expecting to see the pieces wrapped in protective packaging and to come with an instruction booklet. Vertagear does make the assembly process easy with the ‘slide-in parts, but it’s not quite as easy as they make it out to be. In their product information, they state that an individual could assemble the chair within a matter of seconds. While I didn’t have any trouble putting the chair together unassisted, it took me about 20 minutes to complete it – not seconds. 

The assembly process is intuitive and if you’ve ever put a gaming chair together, you’ll find it’s pretty much the same as other gaming chairs. The first step is to insert the wheels into the base and then the gas lift into the center of the base. I actually thought the casters were quite impressive. They seem to be reinforced and because of their size, they can roll around on carpet quite easily. After the base section is put together, you will want to set it aside and move onto the seat assembly. The arms come pre-attached to the seat, but you do have to attach the control mechanism to the bottom of the seat. Most instructions will direct you to attach the seatback to the seat before resting it on top of the wheelbase. I found it much easier to put the seat onto the wheelbase before attaching the seat back because the entire seat assembly is very heavy. So, if you do it one section at a time, it’s much more manageable. After the seat was connected to the base, I lifted the seat back onto the seat and made sure the metal arms from the seat lined up with the right spots on the back. At this point, all you have to do is attach the seat back using the provided screws. 

The chair is pretty sturdy and the mechanism is easy to operate for tilting the seatback. The only thing I really noticed that was odd was that there was a sizable gap between the seat back and the seat. It doesn’t seem to affect the operation or comfort of the chair, but it is noticeable. The lumbar pillow does cover it. As far as comfort goes, I found the chair to be a solid 7 out of 10. It’s firm, but still soft enough to remain comfortable throughout a long day. The only other part of this chair that I’m not a huge fan of is the flair of the cushion on the sides. It bends up and in a bit so if you have wider hips, the cushion feels somewhat tight. 

CONCLUSION

The PL4500 Gaming Chair is a very sturdy seating option that is good for people up to 260 pounds in weight. If you are larger than that, I would suggest selecting the PL6000, which is a big/tall seating option in the P-series chairs. I really like that this chair has a soft feel to it and that it has high-density foam at its core. It seems to hold up well even after prolonged use. It’s reasonably priced in comparison to other gaming chairs. 

For more information, vertagear.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

Perfect in more ways then one

I have been adjusting my home office for years and I’ve never quite gotten it just the way I want until recently. One thing that was missing for a while was a space dedicated to photography. I’ve tried using my desk in the past, but because I have other gear on it, I realized I really needed a dedicated space for photography instead.  The Sun-Flex EasyDesk Pro has helped me to create that needed space as well as serve in other capacities. I am a big stickler for products pulling double duty if possible and because of this, it’s a win-win in my book. 

DETAILS

The Sun-Flex EasyDesk Pro is designed to be used in multiple ways. It can be used in the office, home office, school, or activity-based workplaces. The desk is manually adjustable using a gas spring which means that no power cord is needed. There are four casters installed on the feet so that the desk can be rolled easily across any surface. The desktop can be angled and used as a drawing board, relief table, music stand, or even a podium. The desk is available in white or black. 

Specs

• Material: Steel, MDF
• Height Adjustment: Yes, 758-1128 mm
• Tillable: Yes
• Lockable Wheels – Yes, 2 pcs
• Size tabletop: 60 x 52 cm
• Guarantee: 2 years
• Weight: 15 kg

UNBOXING – USER EXPERIENCE

The EasyDesk Pro arrived disassembled and in a cardboard box. All the pieces and parts were labeled and the instructions were easy to follow. That said, there were several steps that had to be completed before the desk was ready for use. The first step was to install the casters into the base. The wheels are made of plastic and have a screw end that you use to attach it to the base. The next step is to attach the center column to the base. There are four screws that you have to insert through the bottom of the base and into the center column. They tighten with a hex wrench (provided). Once the column is attached, the next part for installation is the base for the top. This part has the mechanism in it that allows the top board to tilt. This part get screwed into the center column and then the top board gets attached to the mechanism. This is really the only ‘tricky’ part of the installation – attaching the screws to the top board. And, that’s only because you have to be underneath the desk to do it. Once it’s assembled, you can use it however you wish. 

The desk is actually pretty solid. It rolls around easily even on carpet. The brakes on the wheels are easy to engage and the pedal that controls the gas lift is perfect. All the adjustment options are easy to control. The only thing we really didn’t have a use for was the stopper – a piece that creates a ledge for any items you don’t want sliding off the edge of the desk when it’s tilted. There is a black version of the desk, but the white version works best for our purposes. The desktop is wide enough that I’m able to use backdrop boards for photography and it’s secure for products. 

I mentioned above that I like to use this desk in more than one way. One way I use it is in my entertainment area where I game and watch TV. Because the desk is on casters, I can roll it away from the photography area and use it to continue working while I’m enjoying videos or a game with friends. The desk is easy to move and since it’s adjustable, it gives me the flexibility I need for sitting and standing. The second main way I use it is for capturing product photos. I love having the ability to move the desk wherever I need it to be able to get just the right shot. The desk works in my office to serve both these purposes and because of that, I’m in love with this desk. 

CONCLUSION

As I stated above this desk pulls double duty in my home office. This means I am a lot rougher on it then a normal desk since I am constantly rolling it around my home office. Between sitting at it with my laptop while watching some TV and working to using it to shot photos this desk has held up for me extremely well. I have no issues nor complaints.

For more information, visit sun-flex.com and Facebook.

A chair to boost your energy

For a long time now, I’ve worked from home and I’ve led a sedentary lifestyle. Because my work happens behind a computer, I find myself sitting for many, many hours a day. Not only can this get very boring, but it also keeps me from getting up and moving around on a regular basis. With the world moving to a more remote working environment in the past year, there are lots of different options out there for stationary exercise seats that can be used while you are working at your desk. One of those options is the Sit2Go 2-in-1 Fitness Chair from Flexispot. 

DETAILS 

The Sit2Go 2-in-1 Fitness Chair is a stationary bicycle that doubles as a desk chair. It’s designed to be comfortable for when you just need to use it for sitting, but it’s also designed to be flexible enough so that you can use the exercise bike feature from your workspace. The seatback is made with breathable mesh for comfort and stability while the seat is made from a supportive seat cushion. The seat is also height adjustable with a one-touch lever. The bicycle feature provides a calorie tracker as well as a customizable cardio knob so that you can increase or decrease the resistance of the pedals as needed. The pedals are ultra-comfortable and can be used with or without shoes. The entire unit is set upon durable caster wheels so that you can move it around as needed. 

• Color: White
• Product Dimensions: 33.6”(L) x 20.3″(W) x 37.”-46.3”(H)
• Seat Height Adjustable Range: 22.4.”-31.5”
• Weight Capacity: 220 lbs

USER EXPERIENCE 

The first thing I want to note is that some assembly is required. That said, it is very minor. The base assembly already has the wheels installed and all that is really required of the user is to screw in the pedals and to attach the seat. The back legs of the base fold in for storage and that’s how they arrive. To use them, you simply pop them out and lock them into place. All the tools are included for assembly and you are even given a set of socks that read, “Work Meets Workout.” The pedals screw into the cycle and the seat screws into a plate that is designed to hold the seat. The seatback is also attached to the base assembly at the seat plate. After the screws are all tightened in place, the fitness chair is ready for use. 

When we had the chair assembled, I immediately wanted to use it. I moved my regular desk chair away from my desk and raised my desk up a few inches (I have a motorized standing desk). Then I slid the Sit2Go up to my desk and sat down. I was genuinely surprised at how comfortable the seat was. The cushion is firm but comfortable and the mesh backing makes for a nicely vented back. I never noticed myself getting overheated while using the chair. I do want to point out here that the mesh backing doesn’t seem to be 100% sturdy. I had been using the chair for about a week when I noticed that the mesh was pulling away from the plastic frame. This is something I haven’t been able to fix on my own.

The bicycle feature is really pretty great. The pedals are comfortable to use and the cycle motion is smooth. It’s also very quiet and doesn’t seem to interrupt any work I’m doing. I’ve noticed that because the cycle is part of my workspace that it’s really helped me built a fitness routine. Every couple of hours I take a few minutes and pedal. This has also been a benefit to me as a time-saver. I don’t have to set separate workout time aside since the bike is at my desk. I’ve really enjoyed using this fitness cycle because it’s given me the option to complete low-impact workouts throughout the day. I have bad knees and the cycle has given me strength in my legs that I haven’t had for a while because other workouts cause too much pain for me. 

CONCLUSION

The Sit2Go 2-in-1 Fitness Cycle is a definite win in my book. Aside from the mesh backing flaw I experienced, I’ve been really happy with the chair. It’s comfortable and it helps me maintain a fitness routine – even while I’m working at my desk. I do recommend pairing this chair with a motorized standing desk because you can adjust the height along with your fitness chair. 

For more information, visit flexispot.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

A fun, creative way to work your muscles while you work at a desk.

As the world turned to a state of “working from home” within the past year, many of us outfitted our houses with smart ways to keep ourselves active. Standing desks, under-desk bicycles, balance boards – all of these items can work wonders for stagnant, sedentary lifestyles. I already have a smart standing desk so I thought a smart addition might be a stool that can help achieve a sense of motion while you are between standing and sitting. Sun-Flex has a solution for an active sitting position – the Sun-Flex Active Chair. 

DETAILS

The Sun-Flex Active Chair is a stool that promotes natural activity. It helps to strengthen your back and abdomen and it has an adjustable height feature. The Sun-Flex Active has the ability to stimulate your core muscles as well as increase blood circulation. The active sitting function is provided by the dome-shaped base. It’s rounded and moves back and forth while someone is sitting on it. In order to balance yourself, you have to engage certain muscles in your body, which is what keeps you active. The stool is made with steel, upholstery fabric, ABS plastic, and features grooved natural rubber backing as an anti-slip surface. The stool has a weight limit of 264 pounds (120 kg). The frame is white while the seat and nonslip rubber base are black. The seat post is chrome. 

USER EXPERIENCE

The Sun-Flex Active chair is shipped in a single box and does require assembly. The entire process only takes about ten minutes though. You simply slip the top on the side of the post where the hydraulic lift is located. Then you slip the base on the opposite end. That’s pretty much it. I was really happy to see such a simple assembly process. The stool is lightweight and can easily be picked up with one hand to move from place to place. One of the things I like the best about this is how compact the stool is. You can store it behind larger pieces of furniture if you need to or just set it in a corner. I find that as a nice benefit because when you don’t want to use it, it’s not in the way. 

Because the stool is designed to keep you active, it doesn’t sit level. And, because of that, it can easily tip over if someone doesn’t sit on it correctly – or isn’t expecting an active chair. This actually happened to my step-daughter. She grabbed the stool to sit while we were talking and didn’t realize that it didn’t sit flat. The stool was on carpet and she toppled over. Fortunately, she wasn’t hurt, but it is a word of caution to take care with. We typically warn people now when they reach for it that they should expect some movement. 

As far as how well it works as an “active” chair, we’ve really enjoyed it. My fiance and I have both used it and found it to be a much nicer experience than just sitting stationary for hours. I will typically switch between sitting, standing, and active sitting throughout the day. I work a standard 8-hour day from home and then write in the evening after my day job is complete. So, having a variety of ways to position myself is very helpful. I also have frequent lower back pain after long hours of sitting and I’ve discovered that using the Sun-Flex Active chair helps to a certain extent. Since it helps to train and build core muscles, that provides additional support for my back. 

CONCLUSION

I love that the Active chair is such a simple option for “working out” while you work. It’s easy to assemble, store, and use. The cushion on the seat isn’t the greatest, but it’s comfortable enough to use for 15-20 minutes at a time, which is what I’ve been doing. The price is a little high for a ‘stool’, but when you weigh that against the benefits of the chair, I think it’s completely worth it. 

For more information, visit sun-flex.com and Facebook.

When you sit at a desk as long as I do throughout the day, you need a chair that is comfortable, supportive, and versatile. I, like so many other people, started working from home last year. When I did, I ended up being more stationary than usual. My job dictated that I be reachable throughout the workday and that meant being behind my desk. After years of sitting behind a desk, I know where to look for a chair that is going to hold up through my workday. As it turns out gaming chairs tend to be the most durable, comfortable option for long-term desk jobs. They are reinforced for long-term gameplay so it would stand to reason that gaming chairs would also work for people who sit for work. Over the past few months, I’ve been using the Spieltek 400 Series Gaming Chair and been very grateful for its support while I work. 

DETAILS

The Spieltek 400 Series chair offers users a premium experience. The chair is designed to be heavy-duty and offers a more spacious sitting experience. The bolsters are wider around the seat and backrest, which produces a larger comfort area. The frame is metal with an aluminum wheelbase, contoured seat, and backrest. The armrests are “4D” and fully customizable. The padding is soft but firm. The chair supports up to 350 pounds and is backed with a lifetime warranty for the frame and a 2-year warranty on the other parts. The chair can be raised or lowered and has a height of 19.5 inches to 22.6 inches. The seat has a built-in tilt adjustment that helps recline it to 165º and there are two fabric-covered memory foam pillows included for additional backing and cushion. 

USER EXPERIENCE

The Spieltek 400 Series chair arrived in a large shipping box and all the pieces were wrapped up with some form of protective packaging. The chair does require assembly, but it’s a fairly simple process and can be completed in under 30 minutes. The first thing I did was to unwrap all the pieces and lay them out to make sure I wasn’t missing anything. One of the things I liked about the Spieltek accessory kit is that they include a set of white gloves with the bolts and hex wrenches. The purpose of these gloves it to keep your hands free from any grease or dirt that might be on the chair pieces. 

The assembly process is intuitive and if you’ve ever put a gaming chair together, you will be able to put this one together without any issues. The seat base has the arms pre-attached and the first step is to attach the seat to the back. You do this by lining up the bracket from the seat with the pre-drilled holes in the back’s sides. Once those bolts are in place, you will snap the plastic protective covering for the brackets onto the brackets. The next step is to remove the screws from the bottom of the seat. These will be used to attach the control base onto the bottom of the seat. This base is what is used to raise and lower the seat. 

Once that piece is attached you will need to insert the wheels into the wheelbase. One of the final steps is to insert the hydraulic cylinder into the wheelbase. Once all those steps are completed you will lift the seat/back assembly onto the wheelbase. Even though a single person could do this step alone, I would recommend having someone help you because it’s much safer and you get done quicker. 

The assembly of the Spieltek 400 Series chair was very easy and pretty standard as far as gaming chairs go. I was very excited to get this chair completed because it is designed for someone with a larger frame – like me. The wider seat is very comfortable and there is plenty of room to adjust and move around if you wish. While I thought the seat cushion is firm, it is still very comfortable. One of the best features of this chair is its accessory pillows. They are soft and made with memory foam. They feel very luxurious and I’ve never really had anything like them with a gaming chair. The tilt on the chair is extreme and it is very easy to take a nap in it once you prop your feet up. I don’t typically rock a whole lot when I work, but my fiance does. So, I asked him to try it out, too, and he said that it has a smooth rocking motion. The base is very sturdy and I would suspect it will last for quite a while. I do, however, worry about the wheels. 

CONCLUSION

The Spieltek 400 Series chair is comfortable and relaxing – even when I work. It’s a fairly affordable option (retails for $300 at the time of publishing) and seems like a solid choice as a gaming or working chair. 

For more information, visit spieltekgaming.com.

According to crm.org, there are approximately 261 workdays in 2021. Assuming 8760 total hours in the year, it can seem rather daunting to tackle the 2088 work hours. With ~25% of your time spent working and another ~25% spent asleep, your choice of desk/chair and mattress may truly affect your overall health. With nearly 50% of our time spent in mostly sedentary positions, I understand why medical professionals counsel patients about the need to increase activity. Luckily, we have technologies like standing desks to increase one’s activity without requiring additional time investment. Essentially, you can burn extra calories and improve your health by simply standing/changing positions instead of sitting. A 2017 healthline.com article provided at least seven benefits of using a standing desk: 1. may lower your risk of weight gain and obesity, 2. may lower blood sugar levels, 3. may lower risks of heart disease, 4. may reduce back pain, 5. may improve mood/energy levels, 6. may boost productivity, 7. may help you live longer.

The Flexispot desk arrived in a 51 inches wide by 29 11/16 inches tall by 7 1/2 inches thick cardboard shipping box.  The front cover was divided into an upper tan section and a lower black section.  Within the lower black section you will find the 1-855-421-2808 contact number and a maximal working surface weight of 110 pounds.  The upper tan section listed the FLEXISPOT.com website and Item No. EG8B along the top left of the panel. Along the bottom left of the panel, the company provided the size of the desktop (48×24 inches) and the color (black).  My favorite aspect of the cover was the ~18 inches wide by 12 inches tall ink outline of the Flexispot desk. The drawing provided a good understanding of the product, the purpose, and the features of the desk. Both of the side panels listed the “TEAM LIFT” logo along the top and the item number, order number, quantity, manufacturer name/date, several product manufacturing logos, and the “Made in China” logo along the bottom.  

To access the contents of the box, I slit the tape along the top and sides of the packaging.  With the box in an upright position, I removed the front panel and was immediately impressed with the grid-like cardboard protection and the edge/corner foam pieces. Flexispot did a great job at protecting the glass surface and the metallic desk components. Before removing the cardboard, I removed the ten-panel instruction manual and the attractive blue Thank You card.  I removed the top/side foam pieces, the tic-tac-toe cardboard grid, the thin plastic bag around the lifting columns, and then set the lifting columns aside. Beneath this layer, they included many additional layers of protection. In fact, I was quite impressed with the focus and attention to detail of the protective foam pads. Each corner of the tabletop was surrounded by a puzzle-like cardboard shell with an internal foam padding. Before you throw out any of the cardboard pieces, make sure that you remove the power plug and accessory hardware bag located within the lower cardboard cylinders.  Additionally, you will find the two desk feet packaged within the lower bottom cardboard layer.  The tabletop, like the lifting arms, was packaged within a thin layer of plastic. As an ultimate layer of protection, the tabletop had a 1/2 inch layer of foam protecting its face.  I removed each of the corner protectors, slid off the thin plastic sheet, and turned to the instruction manual to complete the assembly.  

The first page of the instruction manual listed the product specifications (110 lb/50kg weight limit, 100-240V input, 28.3”/27.0cm minimum height, 47.6”/121cm max height, 46”/122cm wide by 24”/61cm deep dimensions), the contents of the accessory packaging, and a diagram of the components (Tabletop, lifting columns, dual feet, and power plug). Turning to the instruction manual’s second page, I took note of the “Caution” warning along the top.  To prevent damage/scratches to the glass surface, I moved the tabletop to my carpeted floor and placed it face down upon the included 1/2 inch thick foam pad.  I placed the lifting column upon the attachment points and finger-tightened each of the eight M8 hex screws. In total, the desk components were too heavy for a single lift, but each component alone was light enough for a single-person lift. With the pieces loosely connected, I tightened down the hex screws with the included Allen’s Wrench. Next, I removed the two 23 3/8 inches long by 2 1/2 inches wide feet from their cardboard container. I located the eight M6 hex screws in the accessory bag, aligned the feet with the lifting column, finger-tightened the screws, and then cross-tightened them with the included Allen’s wrench.  Before completing this step, make sure that you orient the feet correctly.  The cutouts for the M6 screws were not centered, and the longer section obviously faced toward the front of the desk.  Several times throughout the manual, Flexispot cautioned the user about dropping an item and breaking the glass. I appreciated the warnings and felt that they were appropriately placed throughout the manual. If the thought of building a piece of IKEA furniture gives you an ulcer, rest comfortably knowing this setup can be completed in under five minutes.  

I turned back to the instruction manual to connect the electronic segments with the construction portion of the build finalized.  The third panel of the instruction manual directed me to plug the motor plug into the control box.  Conveniently, the cable and the plug were located 4 1/2 inches from one another.  I plugged the power adaptor plug of the ten-foot cable (120 inches) into the power adaptor and turned the desk upright for the final step.  I positioned the desk along my wall and then plugged the Type A wall plug into a wall outlet.  The design of the adaptor was quite thoughtful.  Instead of playing cord Tetris with a large block, the company provided the smallest possible wall outlet plug.  The power cord should easily fit into a wall outlet, surge protector, power strip, etc., without blocking other ports.  I used the included cable clamps to attach the power cord to the lifting column and hid the cable from direct view.  When ready, you can press the up or down arrows on the keypad to adjust the desk’s height. The screen will show “bot” at the bottom and “top” at the peak position.  When you get to the desired height, hold down one of the numbers (1, 2, 3, 4) for three seconds to record the height preset.  The instruction manual provided some additional/useful information about the desk, troubleshooting, and error options.  As an example, the desk has auto collision detection.  If the desk stops abruptly without an obvious cause, you can press the up/down buttons together for 5 seconds to cycle between the sensitivity levels (A-0 off, A-1 low, A-2 medium, A-3 high).  When in motion, the desk will make a low-decibel mechanical whirring sound.  I did not find this to be that loud, nor did my wife find it bothersome.

It seems that Flexispot has thought about nearly everything.  As a father of four children, ages 2/6/9/12-years-old, buttons are quite enticing and must be pushed.  Thankfully, the company provided a LOCK button to prevent meddling.  Press the 7/16-inches diameter, black-colored, LOCK button to disable the buttons/height adjustment.  Before believing the device broken, make sure that “Loc” is not displayed on the screen.  If it is displayed, press the button again to resume height adjustment.  Adjacent to the four height preset buttons, you will find dual USB-A output ports and a solitary USB-C port.  Each of the ports provided 18W output for a total of 54W charging capacity.  If the desk is stationary, it will send power to the USB-output ports.  If adjusting the height of the desk, the product will have a five-second delay before restoring power to the USB output ports.  To test the output, I plugged a DROK USB-A multimeter and a Klein Tools USB Digital Multimeter (USB-A or USB-C) into one of the USB-A ports and into the USB-C port.  I charged my iPad Pro 11” with a USB-C cable and the multimeter read 8.61V/2.01A. While simultaneously charging the iPad Pro 11”, the DROK multimeter showed that my iPhone 12 Pro Max 12″ charged at 5.02V/1.69A.

I was concerned about moving the desk to my desired location.  However, the grid of cardboard proved to have a secondary utility.  I removed the smaller cross arms of cardboard, slid them under the feet of the desk and used them as sleds to move my desk along the carpet/hardwood floor.  The reduced friction allowed my wife to move the desk with minimal effort and prevented the floor from getting scuffed. When properly positioned, I was able to lift up on the edge of the table to slide the cardboard out from under the desk.  I was then able to adjust the turn-screw adjustment knobs on the front/back of each of the legs to fully level the desk. Having built a few stand-up desks, I was impressed with the easy setup process of the Flexispot desk.  I liked that I did not have to install the electronics, to run the wires, nor did I have to try to hide the wires under the desk.  The single-piece lifting column arrived prebuilt and ready to go.  The electronics worked out-of-the-box and did not require any adjustment or fine-tuning.  Other builds required much more time investment than the Flexispot desk.  Personally, I loved that I was able to spend time on composing my reviews rather than upon painstakingly building the desk. 

The desk was perfect for my MacBook Pro 15″ with and without an accessory keyboard/monitor. The desk should work well for desktop use but may require a monitor riser. I loved the clean surface, the smooth glass against the glossy black color, and the simplistic design. Lastly, I absolutely loved that they included a metallic slide-out drawer. I found that I could hide a mouse, keyboard, pens, etc. reducing visible clutter. The drawer mechanism was smooth and the drawer slid in/out easily.  If I was going to design a version 2.0 of this desk, I would increase the output of the USB-C to 85W to charge a full-size MacBook Pro or Laptops. Additionally, I would assess the possibility of adding a USB-C output within the drawer to charge a tablet/phone. However, I am aware that temperature limitations may prevent charging within the drawer. I loved the mechanism, the quiet sound, the design of the desk, the ease of the build, the inexpensive cost, and the overall feel of the materials. I think my favorite aspect of the desk was that it provided a big real-estate feel but did not take up that much space.

Learn more about Flexispot Desks.
Follow Flexispot on Facebook and Twitter.