Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2: One of the most noticeable differences between the Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2 lies in the armrests. While the Leap V1 armrests can only be adjusted in three ways, the Leap V2 armrests can be adjusted in four different ways. In addition to height, width, and pivot, the Leap V2 armrests can be moved forward or backward. The Leap V1 does not have this feature.
If you have been doing plenty of research about ergonomic office chairs, then you would understand that Steelcase is one of the best brands in the game, as they have been manufacturing one of the best office equipment over the years.
Known for its high-quality material and durability, Steelcase is dominating the market due to its exceptional design and amazing features.
One of the better-known office chairs from Steelcase is the Leap Chair. This particular chair has two models, the V1, and the V2. Both chairs have been huge successes over the decades.
While the Leap V2 is the newer version of the V1, does it guarantee that it’s better? Both definitely have their own unique upsides to bolster your office game.
If you are considering buying between the two, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will give you an honest review of the Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2 comparison.
On top of the pros and cons, we’ve also written our honest opinion of what we enjoy and dislike about each model. We hope that by the end of this post, you will be able to make a wise choice of choosing between the two legendary office chairs!
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The Similarities Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2
Before diving into the differences between these two chairs, let’s look at some of the obvious similarities. After all, the V2 is an updated version of the V1, so there are bound to be many likenesses.
The first thing you might notice is the similarity of the seat. Both have an ergonomic design that provides excellent cushioning for the user.
One of the great things about both chairs is that they feature LiveBack technology. This allows the back to change shape to the contours of the user’s spine. Both chairs are also very adjustable, although you’ll find out soon enough what separates the two.
Overall, you might think to yourself that you are looking at twin chairs at first glance. However, there are some differences. Let’s go over them, shall we?
The extensive features of the Steelcase Leap V2 chair.
The Differences Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2
Steelcase offers some of the best warranties in the market. On top of the twelve years of the warranty period, Steelcase products normally include warranties that are rated for 24/7 usage, It is good regardless of the shifting usage.
If you are someone who hates all the work of assembling your own chair, then you can get the furniture installed for you. You can sit back and relax while waiting for the chair to arrive. Now that is a top-of-the-line service!
As with our other particular comparison, we will be matching up each chair based on several user-friendly categories that include:
- Backrest
- Armrests
- Adjustability
- Price
Let’s compare the two.
1. Backrest Comparison
One of the most noteworthy improvements from the V1 to the V2 is the design of the backrest. While both chairs offer LiveBack technology, the V1 does not provide adjustable lumbar support.
This is one of the most important upgrades, as the V2 has a more flexible and durable backrest without compromising comfort while working for longer hours.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the designs of the backrest are also very similar, although we prefer the V2 newer and more minimalistic design. When inspected from the back, the V1 has a frame that resembles a backward “C”, while the V2’s frame is more of a curve.
WINNER: The Steelcase Leap V2 wins the backrest competition. While both chairs offer similar backrest support, the V2 edges out the V1 because of its adjustable lumbar support.
2. Armrests Comparison
Another big change from the older to the newer version is the armrests. While the armrests of the Leap V1 gets the job done, the V2 armrests offer a cleaner design with better comfort and durability.
It’s important to mention that both chairs allow you to swivel the arms back and forth, side to side, and adjust them up and down.
The biggest game-changer, however, lies in the V2 armrest’s ability to slide forward and back. This is an impactful upgrade, as it allows anyone to alternate between getting wrist and elbow support.
WINNER: For the second matchup, the Steelcase Leap V2 wins the armrests comparison. The ability to slide the armrests forward and back is truly an upgrade as it allows the user to fully customize their sitting experience.
3. Adjustability Comparison
In terms of adjustments, we can conclude that there are more similarities than differences between the two versions of the Steelcase Leap chair.
However, by taking everything we have said previously into account, it’s fairly clear that the V2 offers more adjustability than its predecessor.
While both chairs give you the ability to adjust the seat height, the recline, and the armrests, The adjustments were simply more refined with the Steelcase Leap V2.
WINNER: For the third matchup, once again, the Steelcase Leap V2 wins the adjustability comparison. It’s apparent that both the recline and the armrest adjustments were clearly improved with the newer version.
4. Price Comparison
The popular term: you get what you pay for, applies in this comparison. It’s fair to say that because the V2 comes with new and upgraded technology, it will cost you more money.
There is a significant difference in price between both of these two versions. If you are someone on a tight budget, we recommend finding a more wallet-friendly office chair.
However, If you are someone looking for one of the best ergonomic office chairs out there regardless of price, then go for the Steelcase Leap V2 as it’s definitely an exceptional choice.
WINNER: After winning 3 categories in a row, finally, the Steelcase Leap V1 wins the price comparison. This is the only thing that the V1 is better than the V2 in this Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2 comparison. It’s safe to say that the V2 is better in almost every way than its predecessor.
Conclusion
In our Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2 comparison, it becomes apparent that the Steelcase Leap V2 dwarfs the V1 in almost every aspect of the comparison. The only advantage the V1 has is only in its lower price.
Based on our honest review and comparison, we would definitely go with the V2 just because it’s a better and improved version of the V1. After all, it’s one of the superior ergonomic office chairs in the market today and will be in the future.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to each personal preference.
If you are looking for value and are looking for a lower price point, then go for the Steelcase Leap V1. If you have the budget and are willing to go all out for a high-quality ergonomic office chair, then go for the V2.
However, the V1 is no longer available on Amazon since it was created in 1999. If you are looking to buy the V1, one thing you can do is to look for renewed or refurbished chairs where you can get a good quality chair at a reasonable price.
And there you have it, our in-depth review of both the Steelcase Leap V1 vs. V2. At the end of the day, you can never go wrong with both amazing office chairs.
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