Gaming chairs often get a bad rap for being uncomfortable, poorly made, or more focused on aesthetics than ergonomics. While not all chairs fall into these categories, the Duelhawk Ultra 2 unfortunately ticks too many of these negative boxes to be a recommended choice. With a high price tag and uncomfortable design, this gaming chair is one to avoid.
The Duelhawk Ultra 2 is the successor to the original Ultra, released in 2022 for around $450. The original received positive reviews and was a standard racing-style gaming chair. The Ultra 2 maintains a similar look but incorporates a mix of materials, flatter back and seat designs, and includes lumbar and neck pillows without the elastic straps to keep them in place.
However, the price point is where the Ultra 2 takes a surprising turn. Priced at $1,300 (marked down from $2,199), it ranks among the most expensive gaming chairs on the market, joining the likes of Steelcase and Herman-Miller. This substantial price increase sets it apart from its predecessor.
While expensive gaming chairs have their place, the Duelhawk Ultra 2’s price hike does not seem justified upon closer inspection. Despite high-quality materials and premium fabric choices, the chair falls short in terms of comfort and functionality, making it overpriced for what it offers.
Assembling the Duelhawk Ultra 2
The assembly process of the Ultra 2 is straightforward but comes with its challenges. While familiar steps are involved in setting up the chair, attaching the backrest to the seat and the cushions to the backrest can be tricky due to imprecise design. The wide slot in the tilt base makes it difficult to secure the backrest properly without assistance.
Attaching the pillows is relatively easy, but ensuring the correct placement of each component is crucial to avoid potential issues like rattling sounds or discomfort. The assembly process, especially when done alone, can be cumbersome and frustrating.
Performance of the Duelhawk Ultra 2
Once assembled, the Ultra 2 offers some comfort with its soft seat cushion and pleasant fabric. However, issues arise when it comes to the comfort provided by the pillows, particularly the lumbar support, which can feel uncomfortable due to the design of the mounting plate.
The rail system for adjusting the pillows, while innovative in theory, has shortcomings in execution, leading to loud and clunky adjustments. Additionally, the headrest adjustment mechanism can be stiff and challenging to operate smoothly.
The lack of additional lumbar support options and the limited recline functionality further detract from the overall comfort and usability of the chair. Despite its high price, the Duelhawk Ultra 2 falls short in providing a superior gaming chair experience.