As one of the most acclaimed high-performance task chairs ever made, the Herman Miller Aeron has gained an almost legendary reputation since its initial launch in 1994. But in 2016, the manufacturer released an updated version – called the Aeron Remastered – featuring a number of changes aimed at improving the sitting experience.
For hardcore gamers who sit for endless hours grinding through games, having the right chair is essential. The question is whether the new Aeron Remastered actually provides meaningful benefits specifically for marathon gaming sessions. Or does the redesigned model forego some of the original‘s unbeatable resilience that intense players rely on?
As a hardcore gamer myself, I‘ve used older Aeron Classics and purchased the new Remastered to compare them extensively. In this ultimate gamer‘s guide to the Aeron generations, let‘s dig into the key differences and how they impact extreme users.
Right-Sizing for Non-Average Gamer Physiques
Gaming traditionally conjures images of scrawny teenagers parked forever in front of screens. But today‘s gaming demographic continues expanding across genders, ages and body types.
The original Aeron came in three sizes – A, B, and C – meant to fit small, medium and larger bodies. For petite gamers under 5‘2", the Size A could still feel roomy. While on the bigger end, the Size C only accommodated up to 350 lbs.
For the Remastered, Herman Miller extended the size range in both directions:
- Size A fits gamers as short as 4‘7"
- New Size B petite works for sub-5 footers
- Size C supports up to 400 lbs now
Moreover, all variants added an extra 2 inches in seat width. This gives fuller-figured players more space to avoid feel constrained during longer sessions.
But perhaps most importantly, the upper height limit increased substantially across sizes:
| Size | Classic Max Height | Remastered Max Height |
|---|---|---|
| A | 5‘2" | 5‘2" |
| B | 6‘1" | 6‘2" |
| C | 6‘6" | 6‘8" |
This better accommodates taller gamers who previously hit uncomfortable limitations trying to cram into even the largest size. Whether super short or lanky tall, the Remastered‘s expanded sizing gives more body types a chance to enjoy the signature Aeron experience.
Optimized for Modern Gaming Postures
Early computer games often involved more typing, with players sitting upright to access their keyboards. But today‘s graphical powerhouses feature complex controls requiring varied hand positions and postures.
To meet this need, Herman Miller tilted the Remastered‘s seat pan forward by 2-3 degrees. This subtle pitch change brings the thighs down to align wrists and forearms more naturally with modern controllers and mice. Gamers can then avoid slouching forward or craning necks during long raids or matches.
The brand also divided the Remastered’s mesh seat and backrest into differentiated zones. The firmest areas support the tailbone and lumbar spine, while more relaxed zones under the legs and upper back enable easier shifting. By providing targeted ergonomic relief where gamers need it most, this advanced suspension technology enhances circulation and comfort even after 8+ hours.
Meanwhile, the Classic Aeron‘s untextured net lacks clearly defined flex zones for extra relief. And its slightly more reclined angle feels less adapted to common gaming hunching than the Remastered‘s body-conscious contours.
Smoother Adjustments for Frequent Position Changes
Hardcore gaming demands rapid, seamless reactions from both player and gear. Unfortunately, the Aeron Classic‘s unintuitive dial adjustment system located under the seat forced gamers to bend down awkwardly mid-match whenever needing fit modifications.
This cumbersome mechanism disappears in the Remastered as easy-access levers take its place on both sides. Now players can instantly customize tilt tension, arm width or height without even glancing away from the screen. Given how regularly gamers tweak positions, avoiding all disruption here makes a huge difference.
The arms also got more cushioned, rounded pads replacing the Classic‘s restrictive vinyl. Along with smoother height/width levers, gamers gain better wrist comfort and movement flexibility for handling today‘s complex controllers or placing smartphones/tablets as auxiliary displays. Between tasks, simply slide the ultra-adjustable arms completely out the way keep them ready to deploy again instantly.
Even the Signature Tilt system levels up for those who use reclining to shift muscle activation. The Remastered‘s updated pivot point and stiffer mesh back create a more gradual, controlled tilt motion. Gamers can unlock full laid-back lounging without feeling like they‘ll tip over, allowing better blood flow to fatigued glutes and spine.
Questioning the Materials and Build Quality Compromises
To achieve its sizing, ergonomic and adjustability breakthroughs in the Remastered, Herman Miller did make tradeoffs in materials and overall weight/bulk. More plastic parts reduced cost and heft, but also replaced metal components that added to the Classic‘s feeling of indestructibility.
Many hardcore gamers even perform their own aftermarket "mods" to increase an Aeron‘s durability, longevity and aesthetic flair. Common DIY hacks involve adding seat cushion depth, securing side covers or mounting customized lighting. Such extreme personalization tends to suit the Classic‘s metal frame and simpler mesh layout more easily over the polymer-heavy Remastered.
And while the Twilight Zone midnight sessions serious gamers endure would wear down any normal task chair, the decades-proven Classic seems to withstand ridiculous mileage without failure. Can the Remastered‘s thinner mesh and plastic arm housings really survive years of enthusiastic gaming abuse?
The 12 year warranty provides peace of mind. But for those wanting a bulletproof tank of a chair capable of withstanding gaming explosions, the Classic may instill more confidence. Just beware of its limited sizing and ergonomic inflexibility compared to the Remastered.
Final Verdict: Choose Based on Gaming Intensity and Budget
When deciding between the Aeron Classic and Remastered for core gaming use, consider your typical session intensity and budget limitations:
Casual Gamers – If you just game occasionally for fun in your free time, the Classic offers plenty of comfortable, adjustable support at lower refurbished price points.
Regular Gamers – For more routine daily gaming, the Remastered‘s ergonomic and sizing enhancements provide a sound investment to keep you pain-free and focused.
Hardcore Gamers – Only premium gear survives marathon usage by serious players demanding absolute precision and resilience. The Classic wins here based on virtually indestructible build quality.
Of course anyone can stretch their dollars further by exploring high-quality non-gaming chairs sharing similar features with Herman Miller‘s products. Brands like Steelcase, Haworth and Humanscale might lack gaming-centric marketing but deliver comparable (or superior) comfort.
But for many gamers, the Aeron retains an aspirational status earned through years dominating esports tournaments and streaming setups. And the Remastered does succeed at modernizing a legendary seat for how players sit today, even if abandoning some overengineering that made the original a heavyweight champ built to last. Ultimately both Aeron models can boost gaming – so decide whether to invest in the classic icon or updated experience based on personal play style.