Ikea utespelare gaming desk and chair review

Trying to build out a solid gaming setup on a budget? The Ikea Utespelare gaming desk and chair combo often pops up as a strong contender. If you’re wondering if these pieces are worth your hard-earned cash, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about the Utespelare desk and chair, from assembly quirks to long-term comfort, helping you decide if this duo is the right fit for your battle station. While both are designed with gamers in mind, they offer different experiences, with the desk generally receiving more consistent praise for its features and value, while the chair has a more mixed reception, especially for extended use. Getting a comfortable and ergonomic setup is key for long gaming sessions, so let’s jump into the details. If you’re looking to upgrade your setup, consider exploring options like a gaming desk or an ergonomic office chair to ensure maximum comfort and support.

Ikea Utespelare Gaming Desk: A Closer Look

The Ikea Utespelare gaming desk has quickly become a favorite among budget-conscious gamers, and for good reason. It’s designed to be functional, sturdy, and offers some really smart features you wouldn’t always expect at its price point.

Design and Aesthetics

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Utespelare desk is its clean, minimalist design. Unlike some “gamer” desks that go overboard with aggressive angles and flashy RGB, the Utespelare keeps it simple, which is a huge plus for many people looking for a desk that can blend into a home office environment just as easily as a gaming room. It generally comes in black or ash effect/gray. The tabletop is quite spacious, measuring 160×80 cm 63×31 1/2 inches, offering a generous amount of room for multiple monitors, peripherals, and whatever else your setup might demand. This large surface area is often highlighted by users on Reddit as a major benefit, especially for those coming from smaller desks. However, some users have noted that the black surface can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent wiping to keep it looking pristine.

Features and Functionality

Where the Utespelare really shines is in its thoughtful features, tailored specifically for gamers.

Cable Management

You know how messy cables can get, right? The Utespelare tries to tackle this with a metal mesh at the back of the tabletop and an under-desk mesh “hammock”. The metal mesh part is genius because it allows for excellent air circulation, which is perfect for placing your PC or other hot-running electronics, keeping them cool and out of the way. It also provides a neat gap for cables to drop down. The under-desk mesh is designed to tuck away power strips and excessive cabling, helping you maintain a clutter-free desk space. Many users appreciate this integrated solution, noting it’s a great alternative to having to buy separate cable management accessories. That said, some folks on Reddit found the included mesh cable management to look a bit messy despite their best efforts to organize, and some even opted for custom solutions like wire raceways. For magnetic accessories, the metal frame and mesh are also quite handy.

Height Adjustability

The desk features manual height adjustment, offering six different settings from 68 cm 26 3/4 inches to 78 cm 30 3/4 inches. This is crucial for ergonomics, as it allows you to set the desk at a height that’s optimal for your individual stature and chair. It’s a fantastic feature to have at this price point, as many budget desks are fixed height. However, it’s important to note that this adjustment is manual and ideally done during assembly. If you want to change it later, you’ll need to partially disassemble and reassemble the desk, which isn’t as convenient as a motorized standing desk. For those who might want more flexibility, you could always add a desktop riser later on.

Microsoft surface laptop 13 inch review

Assembly Experience

Putting together Ikea furniture can sometimes be an adventure, but the Utespelare desk generally receives positive remarks for its assembly. Many users report it’s fairly straightforward, even with the detailed instructions. The main challenge seems to be the size and weight of the tabletop itself, which is largely one piece. You might need a bit of room to maneuver it, especially when flipping the desk after installing the top. One user mentioned it took them about two hours to assemble, finding it interesting if not entirely easy. Ikea provides all the necessary Allen keys, so you won’t need extra tools.

Durability and Build Quality

The Utespelare desk is known for its sturdiness and stable build quality. The frame is made from thick, strong steel, contributing significantly to its overall stability, even on carpets. Users have reported that the desk doesn’t noticeably wobble during intense gaming sessions. The tabletop itself is described as solid, thick, and smooth. One reviewer even noted that after a year of use, bumping into it and dropping things, there were still no scratches or scars on the surface, making it surprisingly resilient and easy to clean. This robust construction makes it suitable for mounting heavy monitors with monitor arms, a common concern for gamers.

Desk Ergonomics and Gaming Performance

When you’re settling in for a long gaming session or working from home, ergonomics matter. The Utespelare’s generous depth allows you to position your monitors at a comfortable distance from your eyes, which can help reduce eye strain. The height adjustment, though manual, is a significant ergonomic benefit, letting you customize your setup to achieve an optimal posture. This focus on a comfortable and adaptable workspace is a core part of Ikea’s gaming furniture philosophy.

Price and Value for Money

At around $199-$279.99 in the US/Canada, the Utespelare gaming desk is widely considered an excellent budget-friendly option. It offers a large, sturdy workspace with good cable management and height adjustability—features that are often found in more expensive desks. While some Reddit users felt the price was a “bit :/” for a desk without drawers, they still acknowledged it offered great “bang for the buck” compared to other budget desks that might be less reliable. PC Gamer even called it the “best budget” gaming desk in 2025, highlighting its solid build, spaciousness, and lack of gimmicks for its low price. For those on a tight budget, the Utespelare provides fantastic value, outperforming many competitors in its price range. For example, similar feature sets in other brands can be significantly more expensive, making the Utespelare a smart choice for gamers and remote workers alike. Nymble Robot Chef (Now Posha) Smart Kitchen Cooking Machine Review

Ikea Utespelare Gaming Chair: Is It Comfortable?

Now, let’s talk about the other half of the Utespelare duo: the gaming chair. While the desk gets a lot of love, the chair has a more divided opinion, especially when it comes to long-term comfort.

Ergonomics and Adjustability

The Utespelare gaming chair comes with some standard adjustments you’d expect: height adjustment, a tilt-back function, and a tilt tension knob. It allows you to adjust the seat height from approximately 24 to 27 3/4 inches. The synchronized seat and backrest are designed to follow your body’s movements, adapting to different sitting positions. This sounds good on paper, and the lumbar region generally provides decent support for the lower back. However, its ergonomic design sometimes falls short for those who spend many hours gaming or working.

Comfort for Long Gaming Sessions

This is where things get a bit tricky for the Utespelare chair. Many users, particularly those on Reddit, have pointed out that the seat cushion is on the thinner side. This can lead to discomfort during longer gaming sessions. One reviewer even suggested it’s better for shorter periods of sitting, rather than extended hours. Feedback from Reddit includes comments like “Isn’t the chair too hard? It feels like sitting on a kitchen chair”. For taller individuals, the headrest has been described as having an “odd” shape, sticking out a bit, which can feel different or less comfortable than other chairs. The general consensus from several Utespelare gaming chair reviews suggests that if you’re planning marathon sessions, you might need to look elsewhere or consider adding a seat cushion for extra comfort.

Material Quality and Durability

The chair often comes with a “fake leather” finish, made of polyurethane polyester and cotton. There’s also a version with a fabric cover 100% polyester. Many users report that the materials hold up quite well. One 10-month update review noted no scars, wear, or tears in the pleather material, with the threading still intact. The frame is made of a stable carbon steel, contributing to the chair’s overall durability. The casters also feature a pressure-sensitive brake mechanism, keeping the chair in place when you stand up and releasing when you sit. Hitchboom premium bluetooth speaker placed in vehicle hitch review

However, the armrests are made of hard polypropylene and are not adjustable. This can be a significant drawback, as resting your arms on them for long periods can lead to soreness. Non-adjustable armrests are a common complaint, especially when compared to other budget gaming chairs that might offer 1D or even 2D armrest adjustments.

Assembly Process

Good news here! Similar to the desk, assembling the Utespelare gaming chair is generally quick and easy. Most users report that it takes less than 30 minutes to put together, with clear instructions provided by Ikea. This means you can get to gaming or at least sitting fairly quickly after unboxing.

Style and Integration with Desk

Aesthetically, the Utespelare chair typically follows a minimalist design, with black upholstery and sometimes blue piping. It lacks the aggressive branding or multi-colored accents of many traditional gaming chairs, which helps it integrate seamlessly into various home decor styles. It’s designed to complement the Utespelare desk visually, creating a cohesive look for your setup. On the back of the backrest, there’s even a mesh pocket for storing small items like game-related magazines or notebooks, a handy little touch.

Price Point and Overall Value

Priced around $169-$179, the Utespelare gaming chair sits firmly in the budget category. For this price, you get a chair that’s easy to assemble, offers basic adjustability, and has a sturdy frame. However, its thin cushioning and hard, non-adjustable armrests are common points of contention. While it might be a good “entry-level” option for shorter gaming sessions or as a general office chair, many user reviews on Reddit suggest that for serious gamers who spend hours at their desk, investing in a more comfortable and ergonomic chair might be a better long-term decision. Some even advise against buying a dedicated gaming chair altogether and suggest looking into more traditional office chairs for better comfort.

The Utespelare Combo: Desk and Chair Together

So, how do the Ikea Utespelare gaming desk and chair work as a combined setup? When you’re looking at them as a pair, the synergy and overall user experience become important factors. Ponomarets eidolon lightweight electric bike review

Synergy and Setup Integration

Visually, the Utespelare desk and chair are designed to go together. Their minimalist aesthetic ensures a cohesive and streamlined look for your gaming space. The desk’s spaciousness provides ample room for peripherals, multiple monitors, and personal touches, creating a clean backdrop for the chair.

However, the “combo” experience is often dictated by the chair’s limitations. While the desk is widely praised for its stability, space, and thoughtful features like cable management, the chair’s comfort level for extended use can be a significant point of disconnect. You might find yourself loving the desk but wishing for a more comfortable or adjustable chair to complete the setup. For a complete and harmonious gaming setup, it’s important that both pieces contribute positively to your comfort and productivity.

Who is this Combo For?

This Utespelare desk and chair combo is really geared towards a specific type of user:

• Budget-conscious gamers: If you’re building your first gaming setup or upgrading on a tight budget, the Utespelare desk offers fantastic value. The chair can serve as an initial seating solution.
• Casual gamers: For those who game for shorter periods or intermittently, the chair’s comfort might be sufficient, and the desk will definitely enhance the experience.
• Students or home office users: The clean design of both pieces makes them versatile enough for study or work, especially if gaming isn’t your sole activity. The desk, in particular, can be a great computer desk for everyday use.
• DIY enthusiasts: If you’re willing to potentially swap out the chair later for something more premium, or add accessories like a different seat cushion, the desk provides an excellent foundation.

Potential Downsides and Complaints

It’s important to address common complaints about the Utespelare desk and chair combo to give you a full picture. Motorola razr 2025 review

Desk Complaints:

• Fingerprint magnet: As mentioned, the black surface of the desk can easily show fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular cleaning.
• Manual height adjustment: While adjustable, it’s not as convenient as a motorized standing desk, requiring effort to change heights after initial setup.
• No drawers: Compared to popular IKEA desk hacks like the Lagkapten and Alex drawer combo, the Utespelare lacks built-in drawer storage, which some users miss. This might necessitate buying separate under-desk drawers or storage units.
• Messy cable net: The under-desk mesh cable management, while functional, can look unorganized if not meticulously managed.

Chair Complaints:

• Comfort for long sessions: This is the most frequently cited issue. The thin seat cushion and hard armrests make it less ideal for extended use, leading to discomfort or soreness. Many reviews suggest this is a significant drawback for serious gamers.
• Non-adjustable armrests: The fixed, hard armrests are a common point of criticism, as they don’t offer the customization or padding found in many other gaming chairs.
• Odd headrest shape: Taller individuals sometimes find the headrest’s shape awkward or less supportive than desired.
• Ergonomics concerns: Some users on Reddit have outright called the chair’s ergonomics “very bad” after several months of use.

In essence, while the Utespelare desk holds its own as a robust and functional budget gaming desk, the chair is more of a mixed bag. For some, it might be perfectly adequate, but for others, especially those seeking long-term comfort and advanced ergonomics, it might be the weak link in the combo. Many who review the “Ikea Utespelare gaming desk and chair review Reddit” threads often highlight this disparity.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Ikea Utespelare desk and chair combo isn’t quite hitting all the marks for you, especially concerning the chair, there are plenty of other options out there that cater to various budgets and needs. It’s always a good idea to explore alternatives, especially for something as crucial as your ergonomic setup.

For gaming desks, if you love the IKEA aesthetic but need more storage, the classic Ikea Lagkapten/Linnmon tabletop with Alex drawers is a highly popular and customizable alternative. It offers excellent drawer storage and a sturdy surface. If you’re looking for a more advanced solution and your budget allows, motorized standing desks like the Autonomous SmartDesk 5 or Flexispot E7L offer sit-stand functionality, which is a significant ergonomic upgrade. For a truly premium experience, desks from brands like Secretlab or Herman Miller provide exceptional build quality and features, though at a much higher price point. On the more budget-friendly side, other brands offer basic gaming desks with cup holders and headphone hooks for under $100, though they might not match the Utespelare’s overall build quality or spaciousness.

Weber smoque pellet smoker review

When it comes to gaming chairs, this is where many Utespelare combo users might look for an upgrade. Since the Utespelare chair is often criticized for its thin seat cushion and hard armrests, considering a dedicated ergonomic office chair or a higher-end gaming chair could be beneficial. Brands like Razer Iskur V2 X, Enki X or Corsair TC100 Relaxed offer comfortable and adjustable gaming chairs at various price points, often with better cushioning, adjustable armrests, and more comprehensive lumbar support. If budget is still a concern, even within IKEA’s own lineup, chairs like the Matchspel, Järvfjället, or Markus are frequently recommended for better comfort and adjustability, especially for taller individuals, though they come at a slightly higher cost than the Utespelare chair. And remember, sometimes a simple ergonomic office chair from a reputable brand can offer more comfort and support than a budget gaming chair, as many Redditors attest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of the Ikea Utespelare gaming desk?

The Ikea Utespelare gaming desk measures 160 cm in width and 80 cm in depth approximately 63×31 1/2 inches. This generous size provides ample space for multiple monitors, peripherals, and other desk essentials, making it a great option for those who need a large workspace.

Is the Ikea Utespelare desk height adjustable?

Yes, the Utespelare gaming desk features manual height adjustment. You can set it to one of six different heights, ranging from a minimum of 68 cm 26 3/4 inches to a maximum of 78 cm 30 3/4 inches. It’s recommended to choose your desired height during assembly, as changing it later requires some partial disassembly.

Does the Ikea Utespelare desk have good cable management?

Absolutely! The Utespelare desk is well-regarded for its integrated cable management solutions. It includes a metal mesh section at the back of the tabletop, which allows for air circulation and provides a discreet channel for cables to pass through. Additionally, there’s an under-desk mesh “hammock” designed to hold power strips and excess wires, helping to keep your setup tidy. Stepping into the Pop Art World: A Deep Dive into the LEGO Art Keith Haring Dancing Figures Set

Is the Ikea Utespelare gaming chair comfortable for long sessions?

Comfort for the Ikea Utespelare gaming chair is a mixed bag, with many users finding it less suitable for long gaming or work sessions. The main reason cited is the thinness of the seat cushion and the hard, non-adjustable armrests, which can lead to discomfort over extended periods. While it offers decent lumbar support, if you’re planning on spending many hours at your desk, you might want to consider alternatives or add a separate cushion.

What are the main complaints about the Ikea Utespelare combo?

Common complaints about the Utespelare desk include its black surface being a fingerprint magnet, and the manual height adjustment being less convenient than motorized options. For the chair, the primary complaints revolve around the thin seat cushioning and hard, non-adjustable armrests which make it uncomfortable for long sessions. Some users also find the under-desk cable management net on the desk can look messy.

How easy is it to assemble the Ikea Utespelare desk and chair?

Both the Utespelare desk and chair are generally considered easy to assemble. The chair can typically be put together in under 30 minutes. For the desk, while the assembly process is straightforward, the large, one-piece tabletop can be a bit unwieldy and might require some space and possibly an extra pair of hands, particularly when flipping it over. Ikea provides all the necessary tools Allen keys for both items.

Motorola moto watch fit fitness tracker review