Steelcase Leap V1 vs V2 Comparison: Updated June 2022

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America’s most trusted furniture manufacturer brand is Steelcase. This Michigan-based company has been a well-known brand for manufacturing office furniture. Steelcase is well known, especially for its unique and amazing design office chair.

Steelcase has introduced numerous great office chairs. Their office chairs gained huge popularity for their comfy and stylish design. These chairs are comfortable, ergonomic and great for office purposes.

Steelcase always introduces new designs with sleek ergonomics and comfortable design. Their new models always feature new unique and innovative designs. One of the newly designed offices chairs are very

About Steelcase Leap V1 and Leap V2

About Steelcase Leap V1 and V2In 1999 Steelcase first released the Elite V1. Within the first year, it quickly became their most popular office chair. After seeing the utmost success of Steelcase Leap V1, Steelcase decided to design an upgraded version of Leap V1.

As a result, after finishing an effective Research and Development process they came up with a newer version of Steelcase Leap.

Steelcase released Steelcase Elite V2 in 2006.

Steelcase Leap V1 vs V2: Comparison Table

Steelcase Leap V1 Steelcase Leap V2
Steelcase Leap V1 Steelcase Leap V2
Dimensions 24.75 x 27 x 43.5 inches 25 x 25 x 25 inches
Chair Weight 48 Pounds 50 Pounds
Weight Capacity 400 Pounds 300 Pounds
Style Modern Contemporary
Warranty 12 year 1 year
Price Check Price Check Price

Steelcase leap V1 vs V2 [In-Depth Comparison Guide]

Steelcase leap V1 vs V2

Though chairs of the Steelcase leap series are the favorite of corporate managers or normal chair users still many of us wonder what model should we buy. We all know that Steelcase Leap V1 and V2 both are great chairs but still get stuck with indecision.

No worries fellas! Here in this article, we are here to help you with a definite comparison of both these chairs. We will discuss both similarities and differences so you can have the proper idea of what to buy.

First, let’s discuss what’s the difference between Steelcase Leap V1 and V2? So, let’s dive into the discussion.

Differences Between Steelcase leap V1 and V2

There are a few basic differences between Steelcase Leap V1 and V2 chairs. The main differences are described below. Let’s have a look.

Back Design:

Back design of Steelcase leap V1 and V2The first difference that we will gonna discuss between these two different leap versions is the Back Design. When you look at the leap V1 you will notice that it has a shorter back than the Leap V2. Leap V1 also has a more flared-out design on the top.

If you look at the Steelcase Leap V2 you will notice that it has much straighter backrest. This straighter backrest surely offers better support for a taller user.

Steelcase Leap V1 is a good option for most users. But if you are a man of 6’3”/6’4” and like to have good support then you should consider Leap V1 over Leap V2 (V2 also known as Steelcase Leap Plus).

The other amazing feature is the design with the flare. This feature almost sort creates natural arching in your back. With this feature, you will be able to lean back and will be able to feel that additional arch.

Both of these models have great lumbar support, but if you consider leaning support then V1 is better than V2.  Leap V1 has a little bit better support I would say. It can provide more pronounced lumbar support when you are leaning back in the chair.

Cushion Thickness:

Steelcase leap V1 and V2 Cushion ThicknessCushion thickness on V1 vs V2 chair was one of the first things that we noticed when we looked at both of these chairs. Cushion is slightly thicker on the V1 seat and on the backrest. That doesn’t mean that cushion thickness is a problem on V2.

In fact, a thin layer of cushion on V2 offers a really good deep support. But if you are someone who potentially wants to have a little additional cushioning, you should go for Leap V1 chairs.

Armrest Build Quality:

Armrest build quality, adjustment, pad shape and thicknessThe old saying that they don’t make them like they used to, seems true when you look at the armrest of the V1 and V2 chairs. The armrest construction of the Leap V1 is very different than Leap V2.

Especially the upright portion of the armrest is pretty different. Armrest of the Leap V1 is made from steel which makes it much heavier. You can actually feel it when you are moving your armrest up and down.

On the other hand, Leap V2 uses plastic while making the armrest. The plastic is very durable but it’s more lightweight. And we all know that plastic cannot be a proper replacement for steel no matter how durable that plastic is.

So, with that said there is an additional amount of play in the actual construction of the armrest. When you wiggle the armrest back and forth you can notice this on the Steelcase Leap V1 chair more than on the Steelcase Leap V2 chair. If you are looking for something very stout V1 chair is definitely a better build here.

Armrest Adjustment:

Steelcase definitely has locks on armrest adjustments in the industry. However, the Steelcase leap V1 and V2 chairs are quite different in their design and functionality. The Steelcase Leap V1 chair was well ahead of its time.

In 1999 when it was first designed it came with a three-way adjustment which includes:

  • Height adjustments
  • Width adjustments
  • Pivoting adjustments

While on the other hand Leap V2 chair introduced depth adjustments along with the other three adjustments. So, these four-way arm adjustments on Leap V2 are one of the best armrests set in the entire industry.

Depth adjustment is really useful for those who like to have good arm support. It supports whether they are reclined, whether they want to get up close to the desk or whether they are using a keyboard tray. So, the advantage here would definitely go to the Leap V2 chair for its armrest adjustability.

Arm Pad Shape and Thickness:

The arm pad thickness and design of the overall arm pads are quite a bit different on the V1 when compared to the V2. The thickness is something that you’ll notice right away on the V1. It is significantly thicker than the V2.

So, from an aesthetic standpoint we will recommend that armrest V2 probably look better but if you are looking for the deep cushioning of the arm pad of V1 is better. Especially if you really like to sink your elbows into the arm pad.

Base Shape and Design:

Base shape, design & build Quality
The base shape and design of the Leap V1 is a bit different than Leap V2. The Leap V1 comes with a flatter design. It’s a little bit thicker and it’s a bit rounded.
On the other hand, the V2 chair has a taller design. it has a slimmer and sleeker look. Overall aesthetic wise we can say the Steelcase Leap V2 chair looks a little bit better and is more modern look than the V1 chair.

Base Build Quality:

The construction of the V1 chair is from steel and it is an absolute beast. But there is a fact that the construction has a cheap plastic covering over it to give it a more rounded and streamlined look.

When we look at the V2 chair they are able to use that heavy-duty nylon to get a sleek-looking slimline. This gives Leap V1 a better look Than Leap V2.

Price:

If your budget is low, then you may try Leap v1. The Steelcase Leap V1 price is under 1000. Otherwise, for better comfort and headrest try Steelcase Leap V2 because right now Steelcase Leap V1 headrest is not available in the market.

Now the question come Is the leap V2 worth it? The answer is yes it’s worth your money. Because of its extra features. To learn more visit: Steelcase Leap V2 Review.

Similarities between Steelcase leap V1 and V2

After discussing the basic differences between Leap V1 and Leap V2 let’s discuss the similarity between these two chairs. The similarities between these chairs are discussed below.

  • Weight Capacity: Both Leap V1 and Leap V2 can take a load of 400 pounds of weight. The weight capacity is the same for both of these chairs.
  • Removable parts: Both of these chairs come with removing parts. You can remove and reinstall different parts of these chairs. You can remove the armrest, arm pads, seat and backrest from the main body frame. You just have unscrew a few screws or turn a few knobs to dismantle both V1 and V2 chairs.
  • Gliding Opportunity: Steelcase leap V1 and v2 offers gliding opportunity to ensure better reclining. You can glide to have the best recline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these chairs come fully assembled?

Yes, these chairs do come fully assembled

Do these chairs offer have the adjustable lumbar?

Steelcase Leap V1 does not come with adjustable lumber, but Leap V2 has adjustable lumber.

Can the arms be removed?

Yes. You can remove and reinstall the arms from both Steelcase Leap V1 and V2 chairs.

Do these chair seats glide?

Yes. You can glide both these chairs. This forward gliding feature ensures your perfect reclining.

Is Steelcase Leap v3 available in the Market?

Still, Steelcase does not lunch Steelcase Leap V3.

Conclusion

We tried to give a projection of similarities and differences between Steelcase Leap V1 and V2 chairs. By this discussion, you can understand the comparison between these two models.

After comparing both models you should come up with your decision. Always remember, you will be the user, so you should consider your personal comfort, budget and test before buying any of the models. You should take your time and think wisely to buy a perfect Steelcase Leap model.

We hope that this comparison article will help you a lot and it will be a helpful guideline for you.

The Amazon links of both chairs are given below for your convenience. You can go to the link and have a look at the two models on Amazon. Read the detailed description and then you can decide which chairs should be bought.

If you think you need a chair mat for carpet then read best chair mat for carpet now.