Steelcase Series 2 Chair with Headrest
A mid-range ergonomic chair with more adjustability than the Series 1, a built-in headrest, and Steelcase's signature LiveBack technology — best suited for taller users who want a step up without committing to Leap V2 pricing.
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What we like
- Headrest included at this price point
- More adjustment points than Series 1 (arm pivot, seat depth, lumbar)
- LiveBack flex supports the full spine through recline
- Weight-activated recline tension sets itself automatically
Could be better
- Still pricier than most mid-range competitors
- Headrest positioning can feel fussy to dial in
- Fabric options limited on Amazon vs. Steelcase direct
Full Review
The Steelcase Series 2 sits in a crowded spot in the lineup — above the entry-level Series 1, below the flagship Leap V2 — and it mostly earns its place. The headrest inclusion at this price is the obvious headline, but the real upgrade over its cheaper sibling is a meaningful jump in adjustability that makes a bigger difference in daily use than the spec sheet suggests.
Build Quality and Materials
The Series 2 uses the same Air LiveBack design as the rest of the Series line: a geometric mesh back that flexes in two dimensions as you recline, keeping consistent contact with your spine rather than hinging at a single point. It feels more substantial than most mesh chairs in this range, with a frame that has no flex or creak. The 3D Microknit upholstery breathes well and holds up under daily use. Nothing about the construction suggests corners were cut.
Adjustability and Fit
This is where the Series 2 earns its price premium over the Series 1. You get 4D armrests (height, width, pivot, depth), adjustable seat depth, a dedicated lumbar height knob, and the included headrest. The weight-activated recline is a nice touch — it reads your body weight and sets resistance automatically, though you can still tweak tension manually. For users 5’10” and above, the longer back height and headrest positioning make a noticeable difference compared to the Series 1. Shorter users may find the headrest sits too high even at minimum height.
Headrest Performance
The headrest is height- and angle-adjustable and stays put once set. It’s not as refined as what you’d find on the Leap V2 or the Gesture, but it does its job. The key is getting the angle right — too far forward and it pushes your head down; too far back and it’s useless. Expect to spend 15 minutes dialing it in on day one, then you’ll likely never touch it again.
Who Should Buy This
The Series 2 with headrest makes sense if you’re taller than average, spend 6+ hours a day in a chair, and want Steelcase build quality without the $1,400+ Leap V2 price tag. If you’re under 5’9” and don’t need a headrest, the Series 1 saves you real money for no meaningful ergonomic loss. If you already know you want the best Steelcase has to offer, skip this and go straight to the Leap V2 — the recline mechanism and lumbar support are in a different league.
