Home theatre seating buying guide
It’s possible to locate home theatre seats that are both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, thanks to the wide variety of alternatives available. Whether you’re looking for a single recliner, a couple of loveseats, a sofa, or a theater-style setup with many rows of split seating, your room’s dimensions and layout, as well as your own preferences, will all play a role.
It’s not just the seats themselves that matter, but also the material they’re made of and whether or not they come with extras like USB ports and mood lighting. You can get the most out of your home theatre setup and spend more time relaxing with friends and family on movie night by installing some of these supplementary features. In this article, we’ll go over some of the best home theatre seating options and where to find them.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on the materials, features as well as kinds of home theatre chairs you should seek out while shopping for home theatre seats.
Table of Content
- Home theatre seating buying guide
- Material
- Features
- Types of Home Theater Chairs
- Conclusion
Material
Finding home theatre chairs upholstered in natural leather is easy, and for good reason: it’s comfortable to sit on for long periods of time, and it has a sophisticated style that works well in most settings.
The variety of leathers available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, can make it difficult to zero in on the best option for a leather chair.
Natural Leather
When it comes to making furniture, there are four primary varieties of natural leather:
Full Grain: The best leather, known as “full grain,” is made from the outermost layer of the hide. The natural markings and grain of the leather are preserved. It’s not common in home theatre seating because of its high price, although it might be found at the very top of the market.
Top Grain Leather: Top Grain Leather is made from the upper layer of the hide and has a smoother finish and greater flexibility than full-grain leather as a result of being sanded to remove surface defects. If you’re looking for the greatest home theatre chairs, you can expect to find this kind of high-end leather with a polished appearance. Valencia Top Grain leather Chair is something you might want to look out for
Corrected grain leather: this material also goes by the name split-grain leather. After the outer layer of skin has been peeled away, the inner layers are used to make this. In general, it is more durable than top-grain leather, but it is rarely used for home theatre seating.
Bonded leather: It is created when scraps of leather and fibres are combined with bonding ingredients and then extruded onto a fibre sheet. This type’s quality is inconsistent, and it tends to flake after some time. Bonded leather, if of high enough quality, may still look wonderful and hold up well, though. Leather match home theatre seating typically features genuine leather in the sitting and arm portions, with synthetic materials like vinyl or bonded leather utilised elsewhere. Due to this, savings are realised.
When shopping for a new piece of furniture, you may find that there are several distinct kinds of leather made using various procedures and amounts of organic material.
Pigmented leather, aniline leather, semi-aniline leather, and napa leather are terms that indicate the type of colouring process or geographic origin of the leather.
Faux Leather
Synthetic materials like leather gel are common examples of faux leather.
Faux leather comes in a number varieties, the most common of which being PU leather and PVC leather.
These materials aren’t tanned from animals like real leather is, yet they’re just as sturdy and comfortable.
And for those who have a soft spot in their hearts for animals, it could be the best option.
Because of the higher price of real leather, these alternatives are more cost-effective for home theatre seating.
They lack the softness and natural comfort of real leather but are otherwise suitable for use in making high-quality furniture.
Fabric
Fabrics used for home theatre seating are the same as those used for other forms of basic furniture in the home.
It’s possible that you merely prefer fabric to leather because of how it looks or feels.
Fabric home theatre seating typically comes in a greater variety of colours, which might make it easier to match existing decor.
Features
Moving on to the features of home theater seats: you get a plethora of functions you can use!
Powered vs Manual Recline
There are two main types of recline mechanisms for home theater seats: powered recline and manual recline.
Powered recline:
- Uses an electric motor to operate the recline mechanism
- Allows you to easily adjust the angle of the seat back with the push of a button, usually located on the armrest
- Can be more convenient and easier to use, especially if you have mobility issues or difficulty reaching the manual recline lever
- May be more expensive than manual recline seats
Manual recline:
- Uses a lever or handle located on the side or bottom of the seat to adjust the angle of the seat back
- Can be less expensive than powered recline seats
- May require more effort to adjust the seat back angle, especially if the lever is difficult to reach or if the seat is heavy
Both types of recline mechanisms can offer a comfortable and relaxing experience for watching movies or TV shows at home. It’s up to you to decide which type of recline mechanism is best for your needs and budget.
Powered Headrest
A powered headrest is a feature found on some home theater seating and recliners that allows you to adjust the height and angle of the headrest using an electric motor. This can be done with the push of a button, usually located on the armrest of the seat.
The powered headrest feature can be especially useful if you like to watch TV or movies while lying down, as it allows you to find the most comfortable position for your head and neck. It can also be useful for people with neck or back pain, as it allows you to adjust the headrest to a position that supports your neck and spine.
Some powered headrests also come with additional features such as heat or massage, which can add to the overall comfort of the seat. However, these features may also increase the price of the seat.
Powered Lumbar
Powered lumbar support is a feature found on some home theater seating and recliners that allows you to adjust the amount of lumbar support provided by the seat using an electric motor. This can be done with the push of a button, usually located on the armrest of the seat.
Lumbar support is important for maintaining proper posture and supporting the natural curvature of the spine. It can help reduce back pain and fatigue, especially when sitting for long periods of time. The powered lumbar feature allows you to easily adjust the amount of lumbar support to your personal preference and comfort level.
Some powered lumbar supports also come with additional features such as heat or massage, which can add to the overall comfort of the seat. However, these features may also increase the price of the seat.
Seat vibration
Seat vibration is a feature found on some home theater seating and recliners that allows the seat to vibrate or “massage” the user’s back, buttocks, and/or thighs. The vibration can be controlled with a separate remote or through the use of buttons on the armrest of the seat.
Seat vibration is often used as a relaxation or massage feature, and can help to alleviate muscle tension and stress. Some people may find the vibration to be soothing and calming, while others may find it distracting or uncomfortable.
If you’re considering a home theater seat with seat vibration, it’s a good idea to try it out in a showroom or store to see if you like the sensation and if it adds to your overall comfort. Keep in mind that seat vibration may also increase the price of the seat.
USB charging ports
USB charging ports are a feature found on some home theater seating and recliners that allow you to charge your electronic devices while you’re using the seat. The ports are usually located on the armrest or underside of the seat, and are compatible with most devices that charge via USB.
Having USB charging ports on your home theater seat can be convenient if you like to use your phone, tablet, or other devices while watching movies or TV shows. It can also be helpful if you don’t have easy access to outlets or charging stations elsewhere in the room.
Keep in mind that the number and type of USB charging ports can vary between seats. Some seats may have one or two standard USB ports, while others may have a combination of standard and fast-charging ports. The availability of USB charging ports may also affect the price of the seat.
LED Ambient Lighting
LED ambient lighting is a feature found on some home theater seating and recliners that provides a soft, indirect light around the perimeter of the seat or in the base of the seat. The lighting is usually controlled by a separate remote or through the use of buttons on the armrest of the seat.
LED ambient lighting can add a sense of ambiance and atmosphere to your home theater setup, and can help to create a more immersive viewing experience. It can also be useful for finding your way around the room in the dark without turning on the main lights.
Some LED ambient lighting systems offer a range of colors that can be chosen to match your mood or the color scheme of the room. However, keep in mind that LED ambient lighting may also increase the price of the seat.
Types of Home Theater Chairs
Since you now have a firm grasp on the essentials, you’re in a far better position to weigh your alternatives among the many home theatre seating configurations.
This is the last major choice you need to make before making a purchase.
So, what kinds of home theatre seating options do you have to ensure the finest possible viewing experience in your room?
Reclining chairs
Reclining chairs are a popular choice for home theaters, as they offer a comfortable and adjustable backrest that can be reclined to various angles. Many models also come with built-in footrests for added comfort.
There are many different styles of reclining chairs to choose from, ranging from traditional leather recliners to more modern, contemporary designs. Some reclining chairs have manual reclining mechanisms, while others are power-operated. Power-operated reclining chairs are convenient, as they can be easily adjusted with the push of a button. However, they may be more expensive than manual reclining chairs. Octane Recliners are top notch and we suggest you shouldn’t miss out on them!
When shopping for a reclining chair for your home theater, consider factors such as the size of the chair, the level of comfort it offers, and the materials it is made of. Leather reclining chairs are a classic choice, and offer a high-end look, but they may be more expensive and require more maintenance than other materials. Fabric reclining chairs are a more budget-friendly option, and are available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Theater seats
Theater seats are a type of home theater chair that are designed to mimic the look and feel of seats found in a traditional movie theater. They often have high backs and armrests, as well as cup holders for drinks.
Theater seats can be a good option for those who want a more authentic movie-going experience at home. They are often made of durable materials such as leather or vinyl, and are built to withstand frequent use. Many models are also equipped with built-in speakers or vibration motors for added immersion.
Theater seats can be a good choice for larger home theaters, as they are often wider and more spacious than other types of chairs. They are also a good option for those who want a more formal look for their home theater. However, they may not be as comfortable as more relaxed seating options, such as reclining chairs or bean bag chairs.
Sectionals
A sectional is a long, L-shaped or U-shaped couch that can be used to create a seating area in a home theater. Sectionals are a good choice for larger rooms, and offer plenty of space for family and friends to spread out.
Sectionals are available in a wide range of styles, from traditional leather to more modern, contemporary designs. They are often made of durable materials such as leather or fabric, and can be a good choice for those who want a more formal look for their home theater. Many sectionals also come with built-in features such as cup holders and storage compartments.
Sectionals can be a good choice for those who want a more casual, relaxed seating experience in their home theater. However, they may not be as space-efficient as other types of chairs, and may not be suitable for smaller rooms.
Loveseats
A loveseat is a small couch designed for two people. It can be a good option for a home theater, particularly if space is limited. Loveseats are often more compact than larger couches, making them a good choice for smaller rooms.
Loveseats are available in a wide range of styles and materials, from traditional leather to more modern, contemporary designs. Many models come with built-in features such as cup holders and storage compartments.
Loveseats can be a good choice for those who want a more intimate seating experience in their home theatre. However, they may not be as comfortable as larger couches or reclining chairs, and may not offer as much space for stretching out.
Lounge chairs
Lounge chairs for home theatres are a luxurious and comfortable seating option for movie lovers. These chairs are designed specifically for long periods of sitting and feature extra cushioned seats and backs, as well as adjustable headrests and footrests for ultimate relaxation.
They are also often equipped with built-in cup holders and storage compartments for snacks and beverages. Lounge chairs for home theatres can be made from a variety of materials, including leather and fabric, and come in a range of styles to match any home decor. They can be placed in a dedicated home theatre room or used to upgrade the seating in a living room or bedroom. Having a comfortable and supportive lounge chair can greatly enhance the movie-watching experience, allowing viewers to fully relax and immerse themselves in the film.
Gaming chairs
Gaming chairs for home theatres are a specialized type of seating designed for gamers and movie lovers alike. These chairs are typically designed to provide maximum comfort and support during long periods of sitting, and often feature ergonomic designs and adjustable components such as headrests and lumbar support. They may also have features such as built-in speakers, vibration motors, and even lighting effects to enhance the gaming or movie-watching experience.
Gaming chairs for home theatres can be made from a variety of materials, including leather and fabric, and come in a range of styles to match any home decor. They can be placed in a dedicated home theatre room or used to upgrade the seating in a living room or bedroom. Having a comfortable and supportive gaming chair can greatly enhance the gaming or movie-watching experience, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in the action.
Theatre sofas
Theatre sofas are designed specifically for use in home theatres, and often feature comfortable cushions and built-in cup holders. They can be a good option for those who want a more traditional couch-like experience, and are often available in a range of sizes and styles.
Theatre sofas are often made of durable materials such as leather or fabric, and are built to withstand frequent use. Many models also come with built-in features such as storage compartments and charging ports for electronic devices.
Theatre sofas can be a good choice for those who want a comfortable and relaxing seating experience in their home theatre. However, they may not offer the same level of adjustability as other types of chairs, such as reclining chairs or lounge chairs. They also tend to be larger and more space-consuming than other types of chairs, so they may not be the best choice for smaller rooms.
Conclusion
Enjoyable times can be had by all when a home theatre is constructed.
While it’s simple to get caught up in the gadgets, your concentration shouldn’t end there.
You may have a true theatrical experience in the comfort of your own home by investing in high-quality home theatre seating.
As you can see, the options for home theatre seats are nearly endless.
This article, however, should serve as an excellent primer for all the possibilities available to you.
To get the most out of your movie-watching experience, all you have to do is pick the right fabrics, colours, types, and accessories.