Quick Verdict: Series 1 or Series 2?
Choose the Steelcase Series 1 if you want the best-value genuine Steelcase: adjustable lumbar, seat height and depth adjustment, 4D arms on most configurations, a weight-activated recline, a 400-pound rating and Steelcase's limited lifetime warranty, all at the lowest price in the family. Choose the Steelcase Series 2 if you want a slightly more refined chair with the flexing Air LiveBack, 4D arms as standard, an open-back option that runs cooler and more back styles. The two chairs are closer than their price gap suggests, so for most home offices the Series 1 is the smarter buy.
Series 1 vs. Series 2 at a Glance
| Steelcase Series 1 | Steelcase Series 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Back | 3D Microknit or Air Back | Air LiveBack: uncovered, upholstered, quilted or 3D Microknit |
| Lumbar | Height-adjustable (standard) | Height-adjustable on upholstered and Microknit backs |
| Seat | Foam with flexible edges and adaptive bolstering | Foam with flexible edges and adaptive bolstering |
| Seat height and depth | Both adjustable | Both adjustable |
| Arms | 4D, height-adjustable or armless (by configuration) | 4D standard |
| Recline | Weight-activated; boost setting; upright stop | Weight-activated; boost setting; upright lock |
| Headrest | Optional | Optional |
| Weight capacity | 400 lbs | 400 lbs |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime, 12 years multi-shift | Limited lifetime, 12 years multi-shift |
| Price tier | $$ | $$ |
| Check price | Check Latest Price | Check Latest Price |
Two Chairs Built on the Same Foundation
The Series 1 and Series 2 share a lot: the same style of foam seat with flexible edges and adaptive bolstering, a weight-activated recline that sets its own tension, 4D arms, a 400-pound rating and Steelcase's limited lifetime warranty. Steelcase designed both for people who want a genuine ergonomic chair without paying for a flagship like the Leap V2 or Gesture.
The main differences are in the back, the standard arms and the look.
Back Design
The Series 1 offers two backs. The 3D Microknit back uses a knit fabric stretched over internal flexors that follow the spine, and the Air Back uses a wave pattern that flexes in two dimensions. The Series 2 is built around the Air LiveBack, which flexes as you shift and twist, and offers it uncovered, upholstered, quilted or in 3D Microknit.
The uncovered Air LiveBack is the coolest option across both chairs, because air passes straight through the open frame. Upholstered and quilted backs feel softer but run warmer.
Winner: the Series 2 for choice and breathability.
Lumbar Support
Height-adjustable lumbar is standard on the Series 1. On the Series 2, it is standard on the upholstered and 3D Microknit backs. Neither chair lets you adjust lumbar firmness, which is the main reason to step up to the Leap V2. In practice, lower-back support feels similar, with the flexing back doing much of the work on both.
Winner: a tie.
Seat and Fit
Both seats adjust in height and depth and use foam with flexible edges to avoid pressure points. Reviewers describe the Series 2's seat as slightly larger, which can suit taller or broader people. The Series 1 sits a little lower at its minimum height, which helps shorter people get their feet flat.
Scale 14" to 22". Manufacturer-published ranges.
Winner: the Series 1 for shorter people; the Series 2 for taller or broader frames.
Arms
4D arms that move in height, width, depth and pivot come standard on the Series 2. The Series 1 is sold with 4D arms, height-only arms or no arms depending on the configuration, so check the listing. With 4D arms, the two chairs feel very similar.
Winner: the Series 2, for including 4D arms every time.
Recline
Both chairs use a weight-activated recline that adapts tension to your body as you lean back, with a boost setting that adds resistance. Both offer an upright position for focused work. Neither offers multiple lock positions or a manual tension knob, which is another Leap V2 advantage.
Winner: a tie.
Weight, Warranty and Build
Both chairs are rated for 400 pounds, more than many far more expensive chairs, and both carry Steelcase's limited lifetime warranty with 12 years of multi-shift coverage on most parts. The Series 1 is the lighter of the two, which makes it easier to move between rooms.
Manufacturer-published figures.
Winner: a tie.
Price and Value
The Series 1 typically costs less than the Series 2, and the gap has varied from modest to significant depending on sales and configuration. Because the chairs share so much, the Series 1 is usually the better value. The Series 2 makes sense when you want the open Air LiveBack, guaranteed 4D arms or a slightly larger seat, or when the two are on sale at similar prices.
Which Should You Buy?
| If You… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Want the best-value Steelcase | Series 1 |
| Are on the shorter side | Series 1 |
| Run warm | Series 2 (uncovered Air LiveBack) |
| Want 4D arms without checking configurations | Series 2 |
| Are taller or broader | Series 2 |
| Want lumbar firmness and recline locks | Step up to the Leap V2 |
For most people, the Steelcase Series 1 is the smart buy and one of our favorite chairs under $500. If you want more back choices and run warm, the Series 2 is worth the extra. If you can stretch further, see Leap V2 vs. Series 2.
Pros and Cons
Steelcase Series 1
Pros
- Lowest price for a genuine Steelcase
- Seat height and depth adjustment
- Adjustable lumbar standard
- Lower minimum seat height
- 400 lbs capacity
Cons
- 4D arms depend on configuration
- Fewer back styles
- Lumbar may sit high for very short users
Steelcase Series 2
Pros
- Flexing Air LiveBack
- Uncovered back option runs cool
- 4D arms standard
- Slightly larger seat
- Many back and color options
Cons
- Costs more
- Heavier than the Series 1
- Lumbar not included on every back style
Who Each Chair Suits Best
The Series 1 suits most home offices: people who work typical days, want a chair that will last, and would rather put the savings toward a good desk or monitor arm. It is especially good for shorter and average-height people. The Series 2 suits people who run warm, taller or broader users who appreciate a slightly larger seat, and anyone who wants a particular back style or color to match a room. If you find yourself wanting lumbar firmness control or multiple recline locks, neither chair is the answer; look at the Leap V2 instead.
Setup Tips
For both chairs, set seat height first, then slide the seat so two to three fingers fit between its edge and the backs of your knees. Move the lumbar to your lower-back curve, set the arms so your shoulders relax, and try the boost setting if the recline feels too easy. See our full setup guide.
Series 1 vs. Series 2 FAQs
What Is the Difference Between Steelcase Series 1 and Series 2?
The Series 2 has the flexing Air LiveBack with more back options, 4D arms as standard and a slightly larger seat. The Series 1 costs less and shares the same seat technology, recline style, 400-pound rating and warranty.
Is the Steelcase Series 2 Worth the Extra Money?
It is if you want the open, cooler back or guaranteed 4D arms. Otherwise, the Series 1 delivers most of the same comfort for less.
Do Both Chairs Have Adjustable Seat Depth?
Yes. Both have seat height and depth adjustment.
What Is the Weight Capacity of Steelcase Series 1 and 2?
Both are rated for 400 pounds.
Which Is Better for Short People?
The Series 1, which drops a little lower. See our best office chairs for short people.
Do the Series 1 and Series 2 Have the Same Warranty?
Yes. Both carry Steelcase's limited lifetime warranty with 12 years of multi-shift coverage on most parts.