Steelcase

Steelcase Leap V2

A
Ranked #2 in Office Chairs
838 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

The refurb market exists because these frames refuse to die. 15-year service lives are routine. Slightly less arm range than the Gesture keeps it at two.

Consolidated from 82 cited sources across 42 outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

  • 1 glowing source
  • 54 positive sources
  • 26 mixed sources
  • 1 unconvinced source
See the sources
Check price

We may earn a commission if you buy through this link.

Pros & cons

  • ✓ Frames routinely survive 15+ years and multiple owners
  • ✓ The chair the entire refurbished market is built on, itself proof of longevity
  • ✓ Reference point for the claim that commercial-grade chairs last 10 to 15 years of daily use
  • ✓ A constant in serious buyer shortlists alongside the Aeron and Fern
  • ✗ Slightly less arm range than the Gesture

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 22 articles, 56 video reviews and 4 community sources

54 positive sources

M Modern Exploration SamerMatti · owner · Sept 2021
If so how do like the experience of sitting in one for a few hours a day (WFH) compared to an aeron…also, in my job I have to both read/write on papers as well as use a computer so I wonder if the forward seat tilt on the aeron should be the deciding factor or it’s something you don’t notice you miss as much on the V2 since as you mentioned the seat design puts you more upright to begin with.
Watch
A Ahnestly Ahnestly · 143K subscribers · Aug 2022
If you want to get a Steelcase Leap v2, save your hard earned money and get a remanufactured Steelcase Leap v2. Watch the video to find out why!
Watch
B BTODtv dundun8323 · owner · Apr 2019
The Leap v2 is Still The #1 Chair after over 13 years of its initial release. That speaks volumes! I own a Leap v2 and have had it for almost 2 years and it's the best investment I ever made. I am sitting most of the day due to my work and I can't stress the difference it's made for my day to day life. When it comes to your bed/pillows, your shoes and a chair you're using every single day.
Watch
B BTODtv BTODtv · 97K subscribers · Sept 2021
The Leap v2 has been ranked #1 on our best office chair list for years and tested in or office for seat, back, and armrest comfort.
Watch
S Systems Office Furniture Article
The new version of the Steelcase Leap Chair, version 2, with breathable 3D knit mesh back with a Sky Blue seat. It is designed to withstand 24/7 use with upgraded ergonomics, particularly in the backrest. This version of the Leap v2 includes all available features and is fully adjustable. The ergonomic backrest contours to your back and changes shape as you move throughout your day.
Read
B BTODtv BTODtv · 97K subscribers · Jul 2020
more specifically the steel case leaf v2 this is a product that we've gushed over since 2018 ranking it as our number one best overall chair for 2020 and 2019.
Watch
A Autonomous Autonomous · reviewer
The Leap V2's LiveBack mechanism is the single best-engineered answer in the category to lumbar fade. The backrest does not just recline, it changes shape: when you lean back, the lower section curves to maintain contact with the small of your back while the upper section opens. Through hour five and six, when most lumbar pads have flattened out, the Leap keeps tracking the spine.
Read
B BTODtv BTODtv · 97K subscribers · Jun 2021
The Steelcase Leap v2 is one of the most popular and highly rated office chairs in the industry. If you've decided to make this your next office chair, it may be hard to decipher which version of the chair to purchase. In this vide, Greg compares the Leap v2 with the Leap v2 Plus.
Watch
C Crandall Office Furniture rower41 · owner · Nov 2023
I'd say it was a new chair if I didn't know. I greatly prefer it to my SecretLab Titan which was about 5 years old, hard as a rock and showing a lot of wear on the pleather and armrests (which were also peeling). I had a slight issue with shipping and called Crandall and they immediately took care of it. This is a quality company that is really succeeding in being a cut above.
Watch
B BTODtv BTODtv · 97K subscribers · Apr 2026
How would you like to get over 70% off a Steelcase Leap V2, one of the S-Tier chairs? We just dropped a limited stock of Leaps with midnight frame and premium black leather, and they are in GREAT condition. If you’ve been waiting to find a unique premium office chair for a good price, this is your opportunity. These won’t last long!
Watch
S Scout Network Scout Network · reviewer
After six weeks of research and two wrong purchases in between, he landed on the Steelcase Leap V2, the same chair you'll find under the desks of engineers at Google, traders at investment banks, and, quietly, the coaching staff at more than a few professional esports organizations. There's no RGB. There's no headrest pillow. It looks, intentionally, like a chair.
Read
T Tristan Pope (Crafting Worlds) Tristan Pope (Crafting Worlds) · 22.7K subscribers · Apr 2025
Six months ago, I reviewed the Crandall Office Leap V2 chair—and called it nearly perfect.
Watch
O r/OfficeChairs u/Spoonmice · owner
This chair feels like it fits me perfectly. I have had a few good multi-hour sits at this point and I have not felt any numbness or extreme isolated contact pressure on my body. When sitting in this chair, I just feel like I would if I were standing. In the two weeks that I have spent using the chair so far, every seat at my uni now feels like a torture device.
Read thread
C Crandall Office Furniture Crandall Office Furniture · 8.7K subscribers · Nov 2023
One of the reasons we think the Steelcase Leap chair (both Version 1 and Version 2) is one of the best and most comfortable office chairs ever made is because of how adjustable it is. But what good are all those adjustments if you don't know how to use them!
Watch
B BTODtv TheRaienryuu · owner · Nov 2025
If I want to see anything it's the big hitters coming out with V2's or new editions with customer feedback included. HM Embody is ridiculous without 4D arms, mediocre seat depth adjustment and 2k price tag while it was a good 30-40%+ cheaper just a few years back. No reason to add hundreds of dollars to the same chair like that and still think it's justified.
Watch
O OfficeLogixShop.cоm OfficeLogixShop.cоm · 3.5K subscribers · Sept 2023
The Steelcase Leap V2 is widely considered one of the best ergonomic chairs ever made, but it only works if you know how to set it up for your specific body. In this updated guide, our team at OfficeLogixShop unveils the "secrets" to getting the most out of this chair.
Watch
D David Zhang platoonutzeyz88 · owner · Jun 2017
I personally like the looks on the Gesture as well but comfort wise, the Leap V2 is the one to go for me. Now, I'm back on the market and I've discovered that Steelcase has another chair which has a similar feature to the Leap V2, and it's called Amia. Would you be able to do a review on the Amia and maybe compare them to the Leap V2 and Gesture? Thank you!
Watch
D Dan Hoang - Sleek Setups Dan Hoang - Sleek Setups · 2.3K subscribers · Aug 2024
Steelcase Leap v2 Review: The BEST Chair Money Can Buy
Watch
B BTOD.com Article
A: Yes — it remains one of the most adjustable and well-built chairs on the market. Three years of daily use confirms the build quality holds up, and the 4-way arms and flexible seat back are still best-in-class. The thin seat pad is the main drawback for marathon sessions. For most users doing 4–8 hour days, it’s still a top-tier recommendation.
Read
M moreBTODtv moreBTODtv · 343 subscribers · Jul 2026
So, I'm S-tier on this one for the first time ever.
Watch
M Matt Daniels TheArcticShockHD · owner · Jan 2022
I absolutely fell in love with the Leap 2 and understood quickly why they're so revered. Ended up purchasing a used Leap 2 for 150$ from that liquidator and the chair is in great shape minus the seat being a bit worn. But the beauty is crandall will do just seats and backpads for 200 and I've had amazing experiences talking with them via email.
Watch
B BTODtv Sinn104 · owner · Mar 2026
So, when I found out about these Steelcase Leap v2's, I was hesitant because I was afraid it would be a case of diminishing returns for comfort. I took the plunge and bought one anyway because of the discount. There's no way I would spend 2k plus for a new one. I'm glad I did because I think I found the grail of chairs! This chair is amazing.
Watch
M Myxo14 Troy_Sent_A_Message · owner · Mar 2017
Great review, you just helped push me to pick up a leap v2 today! Unfortunately the store I was at didn't have a embody as they "sell to fast, when they get them" the sales guy said. The sales guy said the same thing as you, leap v2 has firmer lumbar support (that's what I need most). Also tried out the leap v1, & gesture while i was there.
Watch
O OdinLake zhenxiao · reviewer
Renowned for its LiveBack technology, the Leap V2 flexes and changes shape as your spine moves. It has some of the best highly adjustable armrests on the market, making it exceptional for heavy keyboard and mouse users. Note that it traditionally uses fabric cushions, which may run warmer than full-mesh chairs.
Read
P PC Gamer Article
The Steelcase Leap V2 is the best adjustable office chair for gaming because it offers a fantastic combination of comfort and adjustability. It's also particularly well-suited to gaming for a premium office chair because it's full-bodied, slightly bucket-seated, and has some great recline options.
Read
H How-To Geek Ismar Hrnjicevic · reviewer
The second I assembled my chair and sat in it, I was blown away by how comfortable and supportive it felt. I couldn't believe I had waited so long. Every stiff hour I had spent in my old chair flashed through my mind, and I immediately regretted not making the upgrade years ago.
Read
S SeatedLab SeatedLab · reviewer
The Steelcase Leap V2 has been one of the top-ranked ergonomic chairs since 2006, and nearly 20 years later it still holds that position. Its LiveBack technology flexes with your spine as you move. Its Natural Glide System keeps you close to your desk when you recline.
Read
M Market.com Alex Berry · reviewer
Why: Leap V2 offers maximum adjustability to dial in perfect support for marathon sessions. Amia provides excellent support with that exceptional seat cushion if you don’t need quite as many adjustment options. Both handle all-day use without fatigue.
Read
O r/OfficeChairs u/CarbideReloaded · owner
There's several companies they offer refurbishment leap v2, I picked up mine from BTOD. Youtube some reviews and check it out before you buy. Leap v2 has moderate lumbar support that some people dislike, but you can remove and adjust it if you like.
Read thread
M Medium Article
The Steelcase Leap V2 is the chair that developers, writers, attorneys, architects, and everyone else whose profession is conducted almost entirely from a seated position actually use when they’re asked, off the record, what chair they use.
Read
F Flexi Chair wdfadmin · reviewer
TechGearLab’s standardized lab testing rated the Steelcase Leap V2 at 89 out of 100 — their highest-ever office chair score — calling out its eight distinct adjustment points and exceptional multi-hour comfort.
Read
M Myxo14 sethberry2162 · owner · May 2020
I like both chairs but i feel like the Leap edges out the Aeron in comfort just a tad. I have the leap in a dark blue leather with all adjustment options and it's a dream to sit on.
Watch
C Creative Bloq Article
It is the most adjustable chair we have tested; while most offer automatic tension, Steelcase allows you to dial in your position to an infinitesimal degree.
Read
B BTODtv smorebrands · owner · Mar 2022
I watched your video on how you refurbish the Leap v2 and it convinced me to go ahead and order one. Looking forward to getting it!
Watch
B BTODtv Micromation · owner · Sept 2021
Expensive enough that buying a second hand refurbished Rolls Royce that the Steelcase Leap v2 is, is a much better choice.
Watch
O OT Focus JonnyTenebrous · owner · Sept 2024
Big thumbs up from me! Thinking of buying a second one for my hobby space. no other chair in my home compares!
Watch
O Office Desk 360 UK – Expert guidance for your perfect workspace OfficeDesk360 Team · reviewer
Where possible, as with the Steelcase Leap V2, choose the mechanism first and the upholstery second.
Read
B BTODtv AndRushVideos · owner · May 2020
I'm looking for the same video (remove and attach Back Pad) for the "Steelcase Please V2" model.
Watch
A Ahnestly ypc1020 · owner · Sept 2021
I know a bit about Leap V2, and I can tell you that you are totally getting to the pain points!
Watch
R Riajultech Article
Buy Leap V2 if you sit cross-legged, have chronic back pain, or want total freedom of movement.
Read
C Coggin SOS Article
Here's an honest assessment based on what we see on our workshop floor, not a showroom.
Read
C Crandall Office Furniture MaxVoltageTech · owner · Apr 2023
Have had it for about 6 months and it really helped me with my hip osteoarthritis.
Watch
O OfficeLogixShop.cоm rmachuca · owner · Sept 2023
Just got one used locally and had 0 idea what was the suggested adjustments.
Watch
C Crandall Office Furniture sidd98110 · owner · Dec 2021
Just bought a leap v2 at usd 120 it's 2009 make but everything works well
Watch
C Crandall Office Furniture BlackZynfyndel · owner · Oct 2023
If it’s not obvious enough, I love this chair and Crandall’s service!
Watch
T TechRadar Article
The ultimate investment for correcting posture and soothing bad backs
Read
O OfficeLogixShop.cоm Andreas_SvenxXx · owner · Oct 2023
Both chairs are good chairs but obviously the V2 is much better.
Watch
T Tristan Pope (Crafting Worlds) Oles1977-f8x · owner · Apr 2025
Got one too! AWESOME FABRIC! never thought I would like suede!
Watch
B BTODtv user-fq2gp3ne9f · owner · Mar 2022
This chair legit changed my life, saved my hips from aching
Watch
B BTODtv YouTube review · Jan 2026
The Steelcase Leap is the Only S-TIER Chair | 5 Years Later
Watch
D Dan Hoang - Sleek Setups YouTube review · Aug 2024
Steelcase Leap v2 Review: The BEST Chair Money Can Buy
Watch
B BTODtv pepsico815 · owner · Nov 2020
I bought a used Leap V2 from a local store today.
Watch
F Facebook ofcchicago
Premium ergonomics without the premium price.
View post
B BTODtv fireite605 · owner · Apr 2019
I have both, I love my Steelcase more.
Watch

26 mixed sources

B BTODtv deadication9941 · owner · May 2020
I’ve had this chair for 1-2 years and have been wondering if I wasted my money because lower back would hurt after only 5-10 mins. Idk why it took me this long to try this out I guess out of fear of the process being complicated, but I can’t believe how much more comfortable the chair is for me after removing this piece. Who knew this piece could be causing the pain for me the whole time.
Watch
A Ahnestly Ahnestly · 143K subscribers · Sept 2021
Steelcase Leap V2 - AWFUL Headrest. Solid Chair.
Watch
O OT Focus saturnargentavis1901 · owner · Jun 2024
A major problem with the leap v2 is a lot of people that like to lean back in their chair have a lot of shoulder pain, especially on the left side. Because of how the chair is made. The tightening of the chair is on the left side, so when you sit in the chair you put more pressure on the left side of your back, if you lean to the right you tilt right. so your back is not straight.
Watch
J James Zhan James Zhan · 44.1K subscribers · Sept 2024
14:50 Recline in the Steelcase Leap V2
Watch
B BTOD.com Article
The Steelcase Leap v2 is BTOD’s #1-ranked ergonomic office chair, but it isn’t right for everyone. Four specific issues — headrest limitations, a non-fluid recline motion, potentially aggressive lumbar support, and a supportive, yet firm seat — are the most common reasons buyers look elsewhere. Understanding these before purchasing can save you from a costly return.
Read
R Reed’s Random Reviews Reed’s Random Reviews · 498 subscribers · Dec 2020
This chair is one of the better premium office chair options. I personally like the herman miller opinions better. The reason to get one of these is the offer lower price options and the are more customizable. I do use this shake a lot almost as much as my Miller.
Watch
J Jarrett Sami Relax-il7zn · owner · Apr 2021
But it 100% just feels like a very nice office chair. The Embody actually feels special imo. I wanted to like the Leap more since it's much cheaper and I did love it. But the Embody's recline just dunks on anything the leap can say it has over the Embody. The Leap just feels comfy, which is not bad at all. It works great for what it is.
Watch
L LostInSpaceThings LostInSpaceThings · 25 subscribers · Nov 2025
I've had the Steelcase Leap V2 for almost tw weeks now, is it a good office chair? I wonder.
Watch
K Kate's furniture Hưng Hồ · reviewer
Its main limitation is value because this premium aftermarket headrest adds a meaningful amount to the cost of a used or refurbished chair. Before buying, confirm that the Leap itself matches your body and working style through our detailed Steelcase Leap V2 review , then check the current headrest price and available finish.
Read
M Manny G Manny G · 12 subscribers · Apr 2025
After using the Crandall Leap V2 chair for two weeks, I was genuinely impressed with its comfort, adjustability, and overall build quality perfect for long hours of work and study. However, I ran into an issue with the chair’s lift mechanism, where it stopped holding its height properly.
Watch
B BTODtv Brian-Burke · owner · May 2025
Bought a refurbed V2 and reclining post seat removal and thorough silicone lubrication is loud enough to wake my dogs and interfere with phone calls. Is that noise typical? I'm ok with all the other little noises but when I recline, no matter what I have going on in the house, it's the loudest sound.
Watch
J James Zhan imdrecordings · owner · Sept 2024
Love my Steelcase Leap v2! I've got two herniated discs in my back and it's the only chair I've tried that's been able to support me. I'm 6'2 and about 220lbs, and I think these chairs really vary depending on someone's size an shape. Anthros does look nice. I'll have to try one out some day.
Watch
J Jon Imperial bendirval3612 · owner · Aug 2021
I have both. I hate that the leap armrests don't move with you when you lean back. Love the embody in this respect. Better armrests in every way. But I still prefer the leap overall for the cushion and adjustability of the back support. Basically the opposite of what you said.
Watch
D Dupe.com Dupe Research Team · reviewer
This comparison highlights how Steelcase Leap V2, Herman Miller Aeron Remastered, Autonomous ErgoChair Pro stack up across the most important dimensions in this set, including Lumbar Support Quality, Adjustability Breadth, Durability and Warranty.
Read
B BTODtv everettedl · owner · Jun 2021
If the Leap Plus had the flexible front edge like the V2, or was able to tilt forward to lessen the front pressure on the thighs, it would be perfect. If the V2 had a wider seat with more padding, that would also be perfect.
Watch
F Facebook Charles Jacob · owner
I found this Steelcase Leap v2 on MP for 150 local to me, supposedly from 2007? Is there any major 'leaps'/difference from a leap from 2007 to current? I'm just not sure if I should jump on this or if it's a waste of time.
View post
A Autonomous Autonomous · reviewer
BTOD refurbishes Leap V2 chairs from 2006 with structural components still functional. Steelcase warranties the chair for 12 years. Real-world lifespan with normal office use runs 15–20 years.
Read
B BTODtv wilwilb3533 · owner · Jun 2021
Awesome chair the Leap v2 is my favorite. Is there a reason why you guys never opted for the 3d knit back option? Just curious because I love that added softness to the backrest.
Watch
B BTODtv jlee5990 · owner · Jun 2021
I bought this chair about a week ago, but my back has been hurting. After watching this 3-year-old video and removing the lumbar support, my back doesn't hurt anymore. Thank you!
Watch
L Leo Peng b455h34d · owner · Apr 2023
Looks like Leap V2 is Cogent: Connect fabric version. Probably Era or Billiard fabric versions don't have this dust collecting issue.
Watch
R Reed’s Random Reviews StardustLegacyFighter · owner · Dec 2020
I'm glad I went with the Aeron, this chair has too many issues and Steelcase has a terrible warranty, dealers and customer service.
Watch
B BTODtv scottgriffin6467 · owner · Jul 2020
I just got a refurbished Leap from BTOD and it’s very comfortable but may need an extra inch of high density instead of half inch.
Watch
B BTODtv Nyst2 · owner · Sept 2025
Currently I'm sitting on a Leap V2 which is comfortable but I don't like the ab crunch needed to sit back up or change position.
Watch
T Tom Spark's Reviews pacoguillamon2912 · owner · May 2018
I'm really worried about the lower back support. Is it really that uncomfortable? I normally have pain in that area.
Watch
B BTODtv DaboooogA · owner · Apr 2021
I got the Leap V2 with headrest and have absolutely no regrets! Allows me to fully relax.
Watch
A Ahnestly scottgriffin6467 · owner · Aug 2022
I’m about to return my BTOD leap because my butt gets numb or sore in it.
Watch

Frequently asked questions

It ranks #2 of 16 on our office chairs tier list, in A tier. That placement draws on 82 cited sources across 42 outlets.

1 of the 82 sources with a clear view is critical of it: ChairsFX: Ergonomic Chair Science For Desk Worker Wellness. Slightly less arm range than the Gesture.

On our office chairs board, Steelcase Gesture ranks #1 (S tier) ahead of Steelcase Leap V2 at #2 (A tier). Steelcase Gesture: Nine straight years as Wirecutter's top pick, 12-year 24/7 warranty, and the lowest meaningful failure rate in the category. The safest decade-long purchase in office chairs.

On our office chairs board, Steelcase Leap V2 ranks #2 (A tier) ahead of Herman Miller Aeron at #3 (B tier). Herman Miller Aeron: Unmatched parts and service ecosystem plus a mesh that does not wear like foam. The chair most likely to still be in service in 2040. Fit is size-dependent, which costs it versatility points.

Ranked nearby in Office Chairs