If you’re in the market for a high-end ergonomic chair, the Steelcase Leap V2 has long been one of the top choices. But recently, FlexiSpot entered the game with the C7 Max — a chair that costs a fraction of the price.
I’ve had the Steelcase Leap for the past year, but over the past week, I’ve been comparing it directly to the FlexiSpot C7 Max. Both chairs have their strengths, but they cater to different needs.
Seat Comfort
One of the biggest differences between these two chairs is seat comfort.
- Features a mesh, latex, and foam seat for a softer, more cushioned feel.
- Distributes weight more evenly, reducing pressure points.
- Mesh design improves airflow and helps reduce sweating.
- Overall, I find it significantly more comfortable than the Leap.
- Has a firmer foam seat, which some might find less comfortable.
- I don’t love it, but over time, it’s not bad.
- I personally prefer the Leap’s smaller seat because it fits me better — but in terms of overall comfort, the FlexiSpot is the clear winner.
Armrests
When shopping for an ergonomic chair, armrest adjustability matters. Good armrests reduce pressure on your wrists and help maintain a neutral typing position. You also want ones that won’t interfere with your desk.
Both chairs should shave have adjustable armrests that:
- Raise and lower
- Move forward and backward
- Swivel side to side
But there’s a key difference:
- Steelcase Leap armrests are smaller, sleeker, firmer, and stay in place better.
- FlexiSpot C7 Max armrests offer similar ergonomic adjustability but tend to move a bit too easily. Their cone shaped design also isn’t the most attractive.
Winner: Steelcase, by a slight margin due to armrest stability.
Lumbar Support
Both chairs offer adjustable lumbar support, but they feel very different.
- The FlexiSpot C7 Max has a more pronounced lumbar curve, which some will love and others may find too aggressive.
- The Steelcase Leap has lumbar support integrated into the backrest. It feels more natural and cohesive, even though it’s less adjustable.
Winner: Tie, depending on your personal preference.
Size & Fit
Seat height matters a lot when choosing an ergonomic chair.
- FlexiSpot C7 Max: 18.5”–20.9” — Best for people 5’7” to 6’9”
- Steelcase Leap: 15.5”–20.5” — Best for people 5’4” to 5’6”
For smaller users, the Leap is a better fit. For taller or broader users, the FlexiSpot is the clear choice.
Winner: Steelcase for smaller users, FlexiSpot for taller users.
Recline Features
This is where the FlexiSpot C7 Max really shines.
- Offers a full recline, almost like a La-Z-Boy.
- Great for gamers, power naps, or just relaxing.
- Includes a built-in footrest — something the Leap doesn’t have.
The Steelcase Leap has adjustable recline tension, letting you fine-tune how much resistance you feel when leaning back. The FlexiSpot lacks this, but the deep recline more than makes up for it.
Winner: FlexiSpot, if you like to kick back and relax.
Headrests
For pure ergonomics, I don’t usually use a headrest. But if you’re going to use the full recline on the FlexiSpot, you’ll definitely want it.
- FlexiSpot C7 Max comes with a fully articulating headrest.
- Steelcase Leap doesn’t include a headrest unless you get the Leap Plus or buy a third-party one.
Winner: FlexiSpot, if headrests matter to you.
Build Quality & Design
- Built to last 10–15 years.
- Holds resale value.
- Sleek, minimal design with fewer parts.
- Solid build quality for the price.
- Newer to the market, so long-term durability is unknown.
- The mesh seat may wear quicker, but that’s hard to predict right now.
Also worth mentioning: when lowering the seat, the Leap pulls up, while the C7 Max pushes down. I personally prefer the pull-up mechanism, but that’s subjective.
Winner: Steelcase, if you prioritize longevity.
Price
- FlexiSpot C7 Max: $429
- Steelcase Leap: $1,299 new, or around $650 remanufactured
If price is a factor, FlexiSpot wins hands down. Even compared to a remanufactured Leap, it still saves you money.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the Steelcase Leap if:
- You want long-term durability and resale value.
- You prefer a smaller chair.
- You like a minimal, clean design
Buy the FlexiSpot C7 Max if:
- You want a softer, more comfortable seat
- You need a chair that fits taller or larger users
- You like full recline, footrest, and headrest featuresYou want premium ergonomics at a budget-friendly price
Final Thoughts
For my personal needs, I prefer the Steelcase Leap, mostly because it fits my smaller body better, and I like the cleaner design, But for most people, especially those who want more comfort and flexibility, the FlexiSpot C7 Max is the better deal.
Watch my review of this chair on YouTube:
David is the lead editor of OT Focus. He has been practicing as an Occupational Therapist since 2013. He specializes in acute care, hand therapy, and ergonomics.
