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- 12 Best Office Chairs Under 150$ – Best Budget Picks (2023 Updated) - January 1, 2023
If you’re trying to decide which of the two to pick between Steelcase Leap or the Steelcase Gesture, is important to know the main aspects that differentiate two chairs apart. Both chairs have many similarities in their features. After using both chairs, I’m able affirm they both are fantastic and come with many adjustment options to accommodate almost every individual.
There are several elements that make an Steelcase Leap from the Steelcase Gesture distinct, for example, the larger lumbar region in the Leap as well as the more expansive Armrest width adjustment in the Gesture and the possibility of having an extra larger chair inside of the Leap. The decision of Steelcase Leap and Gesture is individual, as it depends on the person who is choosing it. Both chairs are top-quality because they meet our standards for ease of use, adjustability, and quality of the materials.
Comparison: Steelcase Gesture vs Steelcase Leap V2
| Specification | Steelcase Leap | Steelcase Gesture |
| Dimensions | 24.75 x 27 x 38.5 inches | 24.75 x 27 x 48.5 inches |
| Overall height | 38.5 to 43.5 inches | 39¼ to 44¼ inches |
| Seat height from floor | 15.5 to 20.5 inches | 16 to 21 inches |
| Seat width | 19.25 inches | 20 inches |
| Seat depth adjustment | 15.75 to 18.75 inches | 15¼ to 18½ inches |
| Back dimensions | 18 x 25 (W x H) inches | 16¼ x 24 1/16 (W x H) in. |
| Lumbar height from seat | 5.25 to 10.25 inches | 5.25 to 9.25 inches |
| Width between arms | 12.75 to 20 inches | 10.25 to 22.5 inches |
| Arm height from seat | 7 to 11 inches | 7.25 to 11.5 inches |
| Arm cap pivot range | 30 degrees | 30 degrees (15 deg. in/out) |
| Recline angle | 96 to 120 degrees | 98 to 116 degrees |
| Base diameter | 26.5 inches | 26.5 inches |
| Weight capacity | 400 lbs. | 400 lbs. |
Pros & Cons
| Steelcase Leap Chair | Steelcase Gesture Chair |
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Several back adjustment options
Foam padding tends to stain
Armrests need to be softer
Price
This is the main reason for Leap Gesture in the hands of lots of buyers. The Gesture could be more expensive in comparison to Leap V2. Based on this, the Leap is comparable to or even better than what is available with the Gesture however, it’s difficult to argue that Gesture is superior to Leap V2. Leap V2 is the best choice for most consumers.
Load and weight capacity
It is important to note that Steelcase Gesture and Leap V2 come with the identical weight capacity at 400 lbs. This is amazing considering that the majority of the chairs in the marketplace have weight capacity around 300-350 lbs. This is an indicator of the remarkable engineering capabilities of both chairs. The actual weight of each chair differs, with Gesture is a heavier chair with 73 pounds compared to Leap’s 45.8 pounds.
Materials
The Gesture and the Leap employ the exact same leg frame that is made from aluminum. Steelcase chooses to use the highest quality plastic for its chairbacks due to a particular purpose. The chairs are able to naturally bend according to users’ pressure and offer natural support for both models. These more solid materials that are used in other chairs don’t typically offer the same “flexible support.”
The fabric that is used on the Gesture and Leap V2 is called 3D knit fabric. It’s Steelcase terminology for “very high-end fabric.” The fabric doesn’t offer the same amount of airflow like Aeron’s mesh designs by Herman Miller however, many users prefer the fabric-based method. Both the Steelcase Leap and Gesture fabrics are a great choice. The Gesture gives you the option of having the fabric wrapped around the back part that is the chair or to leave it open to showcase the unique back support system (for an extra cost). Additionally, you can opt for leather on both chairs for those who would prefer the option.
Assembly and Maintenance are Simple
The two chairs come assembled and do not require any type of assembly from your side. They are placed in a container that weighs about 70 pounds, with the chair sitting up straight. The chair is sealed in an airtight plastic bag in order to keep it safe from any harm. The protection is further improved with the addition of cardboard pieces as well as the airbag.
After I received my chairs they were well-packed. I simply opened the box, remove the wrappers, and they were ready for use.
When I poured tea or juice on the cushions, I washed them using a piece of cloth and after that, I dried them out in the sun for just a while. The chairs were in good condition within only a couple of minutes.
Adjustability
To begin we’ll look at the top factors to think about when buying the best ergonomic office chair. We’ll look at how to adjust the adjustable capabilities and the adjustability for these two chairs.
If you’re buying an office chair, being able to adjust the chair is vital to maintain your health in the long run. Both chairs have similar features, however, they differ in appearance.
The most attractive aspect of these two chairs is that both are constructed from top-quality recyclable materials which are environmentally friendly and sustainable, which is good. Let’s get to work and see how they stack up!
Steelcase Leap
It’s an excellent chair for sitting for long periods. Steelcase Leap chair features the LiveBack Technology in the backrest that is extremely comfortable while you move around in the chair. The chairs lumbar support is firm and offers you flexibility as well as exceptional lower back support especially when sitting for long durations of time.
Regarding armrests for the Steelcase Leap chair, you can adjust the height, as well as the width, depth, and tilt. But, they’re not as flexible contrasted with the Steelcase Gesture chair.
The most fascinating characteristic of this Leap chair is the instruction guide that explains the ergonomic adjustments made by the chair is found under the arm pads.
Steelcase Gesture
The Steelcase Gesture Chair also comes with LiveBack Technology within the backrest. While it has amazing back support, we found that the backrest did not have the same prominence as the Leap chair especially in the lower lumbar region. The chair might be a good alternative if you like chairs with lumbar support that does not push into the lower back.
The flip aspect of the side is that it’s not the only reason the Steelcase Gesture has been considered to be one of the most efficient and perhaps the most effective – armrests we’ve tested up to now. It is unlike any other armrests we’ve used. It comes with the width, height and depth, along with pivot adjustments.
The primary factor in the change in the gameplay can be found in how much width adjustment the Steelcase Gesture provided, especially when it is used in conjunction together with other three movements. With more than 10″ to width adjustment, you don’t need to worry about the dimensions that you have on your body and you can find the proper fit.
The winner is Steelcase Gesture chair takes an early lead in terms of adjustability. The reason is clear – Gesture chair provides the ability to let customers adjust their armrests settings while also providing excellent back support.
Then there’s the incredible width adjustment of the chair. Although both chairs have nearly the same backrest support, but this slight difference is enough to allow the Steelcase Gesture chair to move over that of the Steelcase Leap chair.
Size
In this category, we’ll be sure to look over the chair in order to find out the dimension of the chair. One of the essential elements for working comfortably is to find the chair that is the perfect size to meet your requirements.
Steelcase Leap and Gesture
Each of the Steelcase Leap, as well as Gesture chairs, comes with the standard 400 lbs. weight capacity. The Leap is also available in the form of an oversized chair that is rated at 500 lbs.
We do not recommend the usual dimension Leap or Gesture for users who weigh more than 400 pounds. The seat isn’t large enough to comfortably fit someone that weight.
Winner: Both chairs are similar in size and weight capacity. The thing we love about both of the chairs is their huge capability of 400lbs weight capacity. This implies that most users will fit this or both chairs comfortably.
Build and Design Quality
Steelcase was a huge success in producing chairs with beautiful designs and top quality. It is apparent in the Steelcase Leap along with Steelcase Gesture. The two chairs are made from high-quality materials and have a minimalist design and excellent outcomes.
Backrests
The backrest of this Steelcase Leap has a wide design that is able to accommodate bigger customers. With 18 inches in width and a height of 25 inches, it’s massive and flexible. It’s made of top-quality plastic that allows for a variety of adjustments and flexibility. The LiveBack technology that comes with this chair is one of my favorite attributes.
Back of Steelcase Gesture is a bit smaller and narrower than Leap, but it’s still equipped with LiveBack technology. It still provides the same convenience and support for people of any dimension. It is made of premium material made of plastic.
The two chairs have backrests that be able to cover the entire back up to the shoulder blades. You can so safely recline backwards or even tilt the chair using the correct support.
Seats
Seats are constructed from a cushion that is only 2 inches of thickness offers many of the comfortable experiences you can get from an office chair. The seats of both chairs are large enough to accommodate users with different heights and sizes. In my testing, I’ve heard only one complaint regarding the chairs were too tiny. The problem was a 6’5″ user who weighed more than 450lbs.
The seats are made of plastic, which helps reduce its weight, chair but remain strong and flexible.
Armrests
This chair’s armrests in each of the chairs can be adjustable in four dimensions and can be adjusted in a variety of ways based on the user’s needs and the task at the present. The armrests are made of high-quality plastic components, which makes them durable and lightweight.
Bases
These two chairs have 5-star bases composed of polished aluminum or hardened polymer. Additionally, you can pick between soft wheel casters made to be used on floors with a carpeted in nylon or hard. The chairs come with a selection of options for the gas lift cylinder. There are more powerful models available.
Each one of these options is made of solid materials to ensure they’re not fragile or unstable. They result in solid chairs that feel smooth as the user needs to adjust your chairs or alter the seating position when sitting.
Cushions and Upholstery
The chairs I tried were constructed of 3D knit material, which was the top layer, breathable fabric and then an Polyester layer. This allows for airflow, and the use of less material to create an extremely comfortable cushion. Whatever the duration of my time within these chairs there was not any accumulation of heat either on the seat or the back.
Steelcase offers chairs with a range of options for upholstery, including vinyl 3D knit, leather and textile. Of these options, the 3D knit option is the most popular and many chairs with the feature. The options that are available are all long-lasting and can last for the entire duration of the chair when used regularly.
Comfortable seating
It’s a subject which is somewhat difficult to judge in the eyes of most users. Some people prefer a larger actual seat pad in comparison to others. If you prefer an extra thicker pad, we suggest that you look into Gesture Leap V2 as it has an extremely soft seat pads. Gesture is an excellent choice.
The Gesture is extremely comfortable and has a unique style on the part of the seat that is close to the knees and legs, which is rolled off at an angle to eliminate pressure places. Both chairs have a distinctive flexible seat pan that allows the chair to move when you apply pressure with your thighs or the legs. This is one of the most appealing features of Steelcase chairs which draw those with larger legs.
For example, The Herman Miller Aeron is often critiqued for its rigid sides that are a part of seat pan which can sometimes result in a knot in rear of legs.
Warranties and Return Policies
All Steelcase chairs as well as chairs that are purchased from Steelcase, the guarantee for the return of 30 days at no cost.
In order to ensure your purchase, all the parts of the chair are covered throughout the period of time. The frame includes its base and the back seat shell, as well as the side under those armrests.
The warranty is 12 years for foam padding and casters arms with cylinders and mechanisms.
FAQs
Steelcase Leaps last for how long?
On average, this Steelcase Leap is believed to last about 20 years before needing replacement.
Are Steelcase chairs covered by a warranty?
The answer is yes. All Steelcase products are covered by one best warranties in the business and the frames are covered by the lifetime guarantee, and everything else inside the chair is covered by an extended 12-year warranty.
Can you recommend a Steelcase chair?
The answer to this question is likely to differ depending on the type of chair you are using for your ergonomic office chair on regular basis, but Steelcase Gesture often tops lists of the top ergonomic office chairs.
Final Words
Both Steelcase Leap chair, as well as Steelcase Gesture chair, are among the most ergonomic office chairs from the Steelcase company. They’re among the best on the market currently. However, they’re not the ideal option. Steelcase Leap wins the battle due to the fact that it’s backrest is more solid and stable.
In the end, the chair which is the most appropriate for you will depend on your personal preferences, as there are only minor differences which set these chairs in comparison to other chairs.
If you’re searching for the top ergonomic chair with top back support, then choose Steelcase Leap. If, however, you’re looking to find the best office chair with amazing armrests that can be customized according to your needs, go for The Steelcase Gesture.
If you can afford either chair It’s impossible to choose the wrong one by selecting one or the other, Steelcase Leap or the Steelcase Gesture. You’ll be able to enjoy some of the best warranties in the business. Both are worth the money!