The Boulies EP600, released this summer, presents a compelling option for those seeking an ergonomic gaming chair that balances style, functionality, and cost. After a week of testing, the chair makes a strong case for itself as a worthwhile investment for anyone spending extended hours at a desk.
Assembly takes approximately 45 minutes and requires no tools beyond what comes in the box—an Allen key, screws, and basic hardware. The process is straightforward enough that most users should complete it without consulting external guides. Once assembled, the EP600 presents an interesting aesthetic: it resembles a standard office chair from the front but reveals a more futuristic design from the back and sides, with multiple support curves and structural elements visible.
The chair's defining strength lies in its extensive adjustability. The lumbar support accommodates users between 5'5" and 6'3" in height, with independent controls for back height, seat depth, headrest position, and lumbar rotation angle. This level of customization is rare in gaming chairs and proves particularly valuable for shorter users who often struggle to find furniture that fits properly. However, the initial adjustment process requires patience—it takes time to dial in the correct settings for optimal posture support. Once configured, the chair delivers comfortable support for extended work sessions lasting well beyond a typical eight-hour day.
One minor limitation emerges when using bulky headsets: the rear headrest can press against them during reclined positions or head rotation. Lowering the headrest further mitigates this issue, though it occasionally resurfaces during reclined use. The reclining mechanism itself performs well, with the seat tilting forward as the backrest reclines to maintain support. While the feature provides adequate relaxation for watching content or taking breaks, it lacks the full-recline capability of traditional gaming chairs and offers only a few preset positions rather than infinite adjustment.
The standout feature is the 6D adjustable armrests, which rotate a full 360 degrees and adjust in height and depth. Users can tilt them upward to move them completely out of the way—useful when transitioning between typing and gaming with a mouse and keyboard. The plastic construction, while initially appearing less comfortable than fabric alternatives, uses a softer material with slight give. Extended pressure at certain angles can cause discomfort, but repositioning to the correct height and depth resolves this quickly. The main drawback is that the tilt function requires fully pulling the armrest upward to reset before lowering it again, which can become tedious with frequent adjustments.
At $389.99, the EP600 sits at the premium end of Boulies' lineup, representing a significant jump from previous models like the EP460. However, the investment appears justified by improved materials and ergonomic features rather than superficial design elements or branding. At the time of this review, a 20 percent discount brought the price to approximately $409.99. A five-year warranty provides additional peace of mind regarding the chair's durability despite its numerous moving parts.
One practical consideration: the hybrid mesh material attracts hair and dust readily, making lighter colors potentially problematic for households with pets. This concern diminishes in controlled office environments with minimal pet exposure.
The EP600 demands an investment of time during setup and adjustment, but the payoff justifies the effort for desk-bound workers and gamers. Its extensive customization options and genuine ergonomic benefits make it a solid choice for anyone spending uncomfortable amounts of time seated, provided they're willing to fine-tune the chair to their specific needs.
