Steelcase Leap V2 & Steelcase Leap V1 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Steelcase Leap V2 rather than the Steelcase Leap V1.
Why Do I Recommend The Steelcase Leap V2?
- The Steelcase Leap V2 features 4D armrests with forward–back sliding for more precise elbow and wrist positioning during typing and mouse use, whereas the Steelcase Leap V1 has 3D arms without forward–back movement.
- Steelcase Leap V2 has a slimmer, taller backrest design for improved upper-back and shoulder support during upright work, while the Steelcase Leap V1 uses a shorter and slightly wider back.
- It includes a thinner back cushion for closer spinal contact and better posture responsiveness, whereas the Steelcase Leap V1 comes with a thicker back cushion.
- The Steelcase Leap V2 uses a lighter plastic base to make repositioning the chair around a workspace easier, while the Steelcase Leap V1 uses a heavier steel-core base.
- Steelcase Leap V2 has improved arm pad shaping for more comfortable forearm support during extended desk sessions, whereas the Steelcase Leap V1 uses flatter, firmer pads.
- It features more open back shell segmentation for better airflow and reduced heat buildup during long sitting periods, while the Steelcase Leap V1 uses a more closed and padded back shell.
- Steelcase Leap V2 has simplified seat depth adjustment for quicker setup and fewer moving components to maintain, whereas the Steelcase Leap V1 uses an additional seat-edge control.
Maybe the Steelcase Leap V1 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Steelcase Leap V2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Steelcase Leap V2 | Steelcase Leap V1 |
| Backrest height | Taller, slimmer backrest | Shorter, slightly wider backrest |
| Backrest width | Narrower, more vertical sides | More flared, wider upper back |
| Back cushion thickness | Thinner back cushion | Thicker back cushion |
| Back foam type | Sheet foam cut to shape | Molded foam pad |
| Lumbar feel | More pronounced lumbar contour | Softer, less pronounced lumbar feel |
| Default lumbar optioning | Adjustable lumbar more commonly included | Adjustable lumbar more often optional |
| Arm adjustability type | 4D arms | 3D arms |
| Arm pad shape | Rounded, more contoured pads | Flatter, more rectangular pads |
| Overall chair weight | Lighter overall weight | Heavier overall weight |
| Seat cushion thickness | Slightly thinner seat cushion | Slightly thicker seat cushion |
| Seat feel | Firmer, more supportive feel | Softer, more plush feel |
| Seat front edge design | Slimmer, more minimalist front edge | Thicker front edge with extra hardware |
| Seat depth adjustment | Standard seat slider only | Seat slider plus extra edge control |
| Seat edge control | Removed on V2 | Present on V1 |
| Back shell style | More open, segmented back shell | More closed, solid back shell |
| Aesthetic style | Slimmer, more modern styling | Bulkier, more classic styling |
| Back height variants | Single main back style | Standard and high-back variants existed |
| Parts availability | Replacement parts more widely available | More discontinued and harder-to-find parts |
| Price | Check Leap V2 Price | Check Leap V1 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- LiveBack Technology: Both chairs use a flexible back structure that adjusts to your spine’s movement throughout the day. This helps maintain a more natural posture and reduces fatigue during long working hours.
- Full Back Support: Each model provides full spinal coverage from the lower back up to the shoulder area. This shared design helps ensure balanced, ergonomic support for a wide range of body types.
- Adjustable Seat Depth: Both chairs include seat depth adjustment to help users of different leg lengths sit properly with full thigh support. This feature improves circulation and reduces pressure behind the knees.
- Natural Glide System Recline: Each version allows you to recline while maintaining your view of your work surface. This design encourages posture changes without disrupting workflow, reducing discomfort over long sessions.
- Adjustable Lower Back Support Option: Both chairs can include a lumbar system that reinforces the lower spine. This helps prevent slouching and supports better ergonomic alignment.
- Height Adjustable Arms: Each chair allows users to raise or lower the armrests for neutral shoulder positioning. This is essential for reducing strain in the neck and upper back.
- Arm Width Adjustment: Both models allow side-to-side spacing adjustments of the armrests. This ensures users can customize comfort during typing and mouse work.
- Arm Pivot Adjustment: Each chair allows the arm pads to pivot inward or outward. This helps maintain wrist alignment across different tasks, reducing strain on the forearms.
- Seat Height Adjustment: Both chairs allow standard seat height customization for proper ergonomic alignment with desks. This helps achieve a comfortable knee angle and weight distribution.
- Adjustable Recline Tension: Each version lets you customize how much effort is needed to recline. This ensures the recline motion feels natural for different body weights and sitting preferences.
- Recline Angle Lock: Both chairs allow the backrest angle to be locked into set positions. This helps users stabilize their posture for specific tasks like focused typing or creative work.
- Waterfall Seat Edge: Both models have a sloped front edge that reduces pressure on the thighs. This design improves circulation and lowers the chances of discomfort from extended sitting.
- Weight Capacity (400 lb): Each chair supports a high weight limit, contributing to long-term durability and suitability for a wide range of users. It reflects strong construction and professional-grade quality.
- 5-Star Rolling Base: Both chairs include a sturdy five-point base to enhance stability and safe weight distribution. Casters enable smooth movement across different office flooring.
- High-Quality Casters: Each version rolls easily while maintaining stability and control. This supports efficient mobility without the chair catching or tipping.
- Multi-Layer Seat Cushioning: Both chairs use layered cushioning to balance softness with support. This helps maintain comfort while preventing users from sinking too deeply into the seat.
- Task + Office Ergonomic Design: Both are purpose-built for desk-based work environments with extensive adjustability. This aligns them with productivity-focused ergonomic standards.
- Upholstery Options (Fabric/Leather): Each model can be configured in different upholstery materials to match comfort preference and office aesthetics. This gives buyers more options for durability and style.
Common Features
| Feature | Steelcase Leap V2 | Steelcase Leap V1 |
| LiveBack Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Full Back Support | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Seat Depth | Yes | Yes |
| Natural Glide System Recline | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Lower Back Support Option | Yes | Yes |
| Height Adjustable Arms | Yes | Yes |
| Arm Width Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Arm Pivot Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Height Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Recline Tension | Yes | Yes |
| Recline Angle Lock | Yes | Yes |
| Waterfall Seat Edge | Yes | Yes |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lb | 400 lb |
| 5-Star Rolling Base | Yes | Yes |
| High-Quality Casters | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Layer Seat Cushioning | Yes | Yes |
| Task + Office Ergonomic Design | Yes | Yes |
| Upholstery Options | Fabric/Leather | Fabric/Leather |
| Price | Check Leap V2 Price | Check Leap V1 Price |
FAQ
Are the Steelcase Leap V1 and Leap V2 both fully ergonomic chairs? Do both versions support the same weight capacity? Is the sitting comfort similar between Leap V1 and V2? Do both chairs include seat height and seat depth adjustments? Do both chairs have adjustable armrests? Can both Leap models recline while supporting posture? Are both chairs suitable for users who sit long hours? Do both Leap versions come with a waterfall seat edge? Are both the V1 and V2 available in fabric or leather? Can the lumbar support be added later on both models? Do both chairs come with high-quality casters for smooth movement? Is the LiveBack technology included in both models? Are both chairs customizable for different users and environments? Can both chairs lock in a specific recline angle? Do both versions maintain strong resale and refurbishment value? |