Thunder X3 recently launched the SOLO 360 gaming chair. Having previously tested and loved the company’s TX3 CORE, I was curious to see what its more affordable model had to offer. The SOLO 360 is available in two colour variants, namely dark grey and light grey, and also in four styles: Loft Air, Mesh, Modern and Racer. We’ll take a look at the light grey Loft Air model in this review.

Contents and specs

The TX3 SOLO 360 is priced at 200 GBP/ 220 EUR. It comes with the chair components, assembly tools and instruction manuals.
 

Specs of the gaming chair are as follows:

• Total adjustability:    6D
• Headrest:    1D adjustable, car seat structure
• Frame type:    Steel
• Surface material:    Breathable mesh (MESH), Leatherette (RACER, MODERN), Multi-layer breathable fabric (Loft Air)
• Inner material:    Molding foam
• Backrest:    1D self-adjusting, synchronous tilt
• Lumbar support:    Ergonomically curved design
• Armrests:    3D X 360 adjustable
• Mechanism type:    SYNC4, multi-adjustable
• Seat:    1D adjustable, up & down
• Recline type:    Synchronous tilt
• Lock:    Multi-angle lock
• Backrest Resistance:    Weight sensitive
• Gas lift:    BIFMA tested, class 4
• Base size & type:    350mm steel base
• Caster:    TX3 65mm nylon caster
• Product weight:    21.0kg / 46.3lbs

The time-consuming assembly of a quality gaming chair

As with most gaming chairs, the TX3 SOLO 360 comes disassembled. Every component and tool required are included in the package, and there is a manual included to guide you through the assembly process. However, it is not a quick task, requiring several parts that need to be manually screwed together. The process took several dozen of minutes to complete on my own, making this particular chair among the longest I spent assembling. This is in stark contrast to the same company’s TX3 CORE, which is the fastest gaming chair I ever assembled (under 20 minutes). While a time-consuming process, once the TX3 SOLO 360 has been put together, you can truly appreciate it for what it is.

Once a chair has the “gaming” moniker attached to it, the price point tends to go up. It is no different with the TX3 SOLO 360. It’s not exactly a cheap chair but it is also not cheaply built. Thunder X3 uses premium materials for the chair’s component, from a sturdy steel frame to quality upholstery. These make the chair not only built to last but also comfortable. The chair features fully moulded foam for padding that has been ergonomically shaped. Compared to standard cutting foam, it maintains its shape better over time, providing reliable, ergonomic support.

Of note, with the Loft Air variant, the chair integrates multi-layered fabric. This makes the TX3 SOLO 360 breathable and more comfortable to use, especially over extended periods of use. Having used the chair during the latest round of heatwave hitting Europe, I can attest to this. I would recommend this variant for its extra breathable material which also gives the chair a more unique look than the standard leatherette ones.

Overall, on the hardware front, the TX3 SOLO 360 does not disappoint. It is not particularly cheap but cheaper than most high-end gaming chairs. Thunder X3 did not skimp on the build quality, using premium components to deliver a premium gaming chair that is relatively affordable.

TX3 SOLO 360: it’s got your back

Thunder X3 bills the SOLO 360 as the “most affordable gaming chair with a SYNC4 mechanism”. This means that the chair supports 4-way adjustability. With synchronous tilt, you can recline the backrest and seat simultaneously. The seat height can be adjusted up and down. The backrest angle can be adjusted via a knob and its recline angle can be locked as well.

Furthermore, you can adjust the armrests’ position. They move forward and back, and, new to this model, is the ability to do a full 360° rotation of the armrests. While it is lacking in lateral armrest movement, the existing options allow for multiple configuration, based on the user needs and preferences. 

Another noteworthy feature of the SOLO 360 is the adjustable headrest. It features a similar mechanism to headrests in cars, moving vertically and locking in place at the desired spot.

 

These options really work towards enhancing comfort based on the user’s needs and preferences. They enable a personalised fit that makes gaming sessions more comfortable and enjoyable. Nevertheless, there are some missing ergonomic elements such as adjustable lumbar support. Despite the curved contour in moulded foam which adds to the ergonomic design, adjustable support would have further enhanced comfort.

One nice-to-have aspect of the TX3 SOLO 360 is the backrest pocket. Located at the outer lower rear of the backrest, it offers storage space for accessories (such as controllers, headsets), booklets and even snacks! It’s a handy and even useful accessory to have in a chair that isn’t as common to find.

Taken together, at the current pricepoint, the TX3 SOLO 360 is a very comfortable and elegant gaming chair. Its ergonomic design enhances the gaming experience while the premium materials ensure its durability. Of course, you can use this chair for more than just gaming purposes. In fact, it doubles as my current home office and gaming chair. It is aesthetically appealing and comfortable to be used for both work and play. 

However, it is not the cheapest chair out there and there are some limitations in terms of lumbar support adjustment and the lack of simplicity in assembly. Adding one to your gaming setup will depend on your budget and needs. If you do invest in the TX3 SOLO 360, you won’t be disappointed with the comfort it offers at its price point.