Broadly speaking, gaming stools will have either a pedestal base or 4-legged base, and because buying new ones is usually a huge capital expense, you want to make sure you ‘get it right’! So, what factors do you need to take into account before buying new gaming stools? Here are the 6 important ones:
1. Maneuverability
In order to withstand the tough environment in any gaming area, the stools need to be extremely sturdy which frequently results in a heavy product, typically weighing between 18 and 24kg. Heavy gaming stools are usually difficult to move, which may result in OH&S concerns for both your staff and your patrons. Two components improve maneuverability.
Firstly, having a handle on the backrest of the stools makes it easier for both staff and patrons to move the chairs.
Secondly, the type of stool base can have a huge impact on its manoeuvrability.
Stools with traditional steel or aluminium disc bases are often difficult to move, while modern bases like our EZI-GLIDE disc base enable the stool to ‘glide’ almost effortlessly over any floor surface.
2. Warranty
A gaming room is a tough environment and you want your new stools to last. A manufacturer that offers a warranty longer than 5 years is more likely to ‘put his money where his mouth is’ and back his product. Read the fine-print as some manufacturers have warranties that exclude all but the most basic components.
All Karo gaming stools carry a 7-year warranty.
3. Seat foam
The seat is the ‘heart’ of any chair and the foam plays a significant role in creating a comfortable stool. Moulded foam seats are a ‘must have’ item. Like a car seat, moulded foam has long been recognised by ergonomic experts as being able to deliver the best support and cushioning for any person that sits for a long period of time. Furthermore, moulded foam is far more durable than any other foam and will ensure your stools last for a longer time.
All Karo casino chairs have moulded foam seats that we manufacture in-house.
4. Back support
A casino chair with good back support, particularly in the lumbar area, will ensure that your patrons are comfortable. A high backrest is not always the most comfortable, so check for proper lumbar support.
Be wary of tub-style or wrap-around backrests. These chairs may look comfortable, but they invariably have little/no lumbar back support. Furthermore, patrons with a larger build often find these backrests somewhat restrictive.
5. Stool height
Ergonomics is an important consideration in any gaming area, and the height of the stool plays a crucial role.
If the stool is too high, players must slouch or droop their shoulders to reach the console which can result in muscular pain in the shoulders and neck. Conversely, a stool that is too low will result in players having to ‘reach up’ which leads to muscular strain in the upper back and neck. How to improve the comfort of your gaming stools.
If your machine bases are at various heights, a simple way of improving the ergonomic setup at the machine is to have stools with gas height adjustment.
With the exception of 4-Legged stools, all Karo casino chairs are available with gas height adjustment.
6. Proven supplier
With so many things to consider before buying new gaming stools, look for a recognised and experienced manufacturer that has been in the industry for a long time and ‘knows his stuff’. Buying a cheap product from an unknown source can prove to be expensive in the medium-term. How to choose the best slot machine stools.
Karo has been manufacturing ergonomic office chairs and gaming stools in South Africa since 1986. Our stools can be found in iconic venues located in Africa, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South America and Asia. Should I Import Casino Chairs Directly or Buy from a Local Agent – What are the PROS & CONS?