Steelcase Series 1 vs Series 2 – Which one is Better?

While there may be a rivalry between Steelcase Series 1 and Series 2, the end-users are the real winners here. 

Steelcase gaming chairs are among some of the most desirable alternatives on the market due to their extensive ergonomic adjustability, excellent build quality, and outstanding customer service.

Both chair models also offer a lengthy warranty, reassuring users they’ll have them for quite a time. The manufacturer is committed to delivering quality items, which makes the long-term cost reasoning of these premium seats easier.

However, if you are only deciding now which one to get, it may be tricky since both offers high levels of quality and comfort. We’ll make it easier for you by making a quick comparison of the two.

Which one is the better gaming chair? Read on.

Steelcase Series 1 vs Series 2 – The Winner

For folks who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a gaming chair, Steelcase’s entry-level Series 1 is a more economical seating alternative. It will, of course, have limitations, like adjustability.

Therefore, it is believed that an upgrade is required, hence, the development of the Series 2. Series 2 is an enlarged version of Series 1 with more adjustment capabilities. Depending on your choices, you will need to spend an extra $100 to $200.

However, choosing a gaming chair suited for your height is crucial to attaining the best comfort. Series 2 is best used by gamers with a height between 5’10 and 6 feet. 

If you are shorter than 5’10”, you may find the Series 2 a little uncomfortable, a problem you won’t have when you use the Series 1.

Design and Build Quality

Adjustable seat depth, back support, and tilt management are included in Series 1. For the best comfort, the mesh backing adjusts perfectly to your spine.

The armrests on Series 1 go above and beyond customizable arm height. Because these parts are 4D, they move with the user. You’ll be pleased with this range of motion if you’re a gamer who moves the mouse around frequently.

The Series 1 not only performs well, but it also looks great. It is far more relaxed in contrast to other sharp-lined ergonomic office chairs, thanks to its rounded edges and small design.

When it comes to durability, Series 1 is a very well-crafted item. Although it doesn’t appear as sturdy as some of Steelcase’s more expensive chairs, it didn’t have any particularly concerning areas.

The Series 2 chair is attractive and subtle, much like its predecessor. A slightly more modern appearance is brought by the design’s curved back structural support and the geometrical MicroKnit reinforcement that sits behind it. The style is modest, compact, and timeless.

The overall construction feels quite sturdy with a blend of steel and hard plastic. A little amount of the plastic accent under the cushion wobbles, but this is only a shell to disguise the “armless” feature of this design and is not essential to the solidity of the chair.

Five double-sided castors are attached to the ends of the wheelbase’s five arms. Additionally, even with the back fully reclined, it feels remarkably stable while having a relatively compact size and poses no tipping concerns.

Comfort

Series 2 outperforms Series 1 in the comfort department. It’s perfect for extended seating sessions due to its many adjustments and smart material choices. And the other features, such as armrests and headrests, help to improve this as well.

The permeable mesh greatly minimizes back sweat in warmer temperatures, allowing you to sit for long periods. Compared to the leather selections commonly found in gaming and some office seats, this material is a lifesaver.

The mesh has more purposes than only providing enough air circulation. It perfectly blends, aiding stiffness and gentle cushioning, giving you excellent support to let your back adjust to it while maintaining your upright posture.

The adjustability settings are also easy to use when sitting and are clear and intuitive. A twist control cycles between the two recline positions while a paddle on the chair’s footrest raises or lowers the chair’s height.

You can move the seat backward or forward by pulling on a little tab underneath the chair. The adjustable seat support can be raised or lowered for the best positioning using a couple of tabs similar to those on the rear end of the backrest.

Finding the ideal extended position to aid your legs and spine is simple due to the chair base’s ability to be shifted forward and backward. You’ll quickly realize how remarkable the resulting comfort is after you set this along with the customizable back support.

However, there aren’t any realistic reclining choices. Even though there are two settings for leaning backward, there isn’t much of a proper middle position between fully reclined or firmly upright in actual use.

The Series 1 does not, however, offer the most comfortable experience. First off, it’s difficult to adjust the lumbar support comfortably. And, it is hard to set the armrests to stay in one position because just the tiniest bit of pressure can move them.

Another common problem with the Series 1 is the low backrest and lack of a headrest. Taller persons might find the 21.5-inch backrest to be a little underwhelming. Additionally, a headrest costs an additional $80.

Pricing

The Steelcase Series 2 can be found in many configurations and price ranges on various continents, making it somewhat of a shapeshifter. Prices in the US start at $463, but when all the options are added, they nearly double to $914.

The Series 1, on the other hand, strikes a solid balance between not shelling out a lot of cash for a chair and avoiding a chair that would be both cheap and uncomfortable. In general, both seats offer excellent value for the price.

The Verdict

It is hard to determine the runaway winner of the Steelcase Series 1 and Series 2 contests. Both offer outstanding attributes and are regarded as market favorites.

Series 1 office chair has a fantastic design, sturdy frame, and supportive seating. Its construction, however, has flaws, including shaky plastic components and 4D armrests that slide too easily.

With Series 2, you won’t experience those issues. The improved version of the arms allows you to pivot them an additional 30 degrees, and they are better constructed and more stable.

Additionally, Series 2 may be better suited for 8-hour shifts thanks to its higher backrest and more comfortable, intuitive, and empowering spine support. Additionally, it looks more streamlined and elegant.

Frequently Asked Questions