Steelcase Series 1 Ergonomic Office Chair – Responds to Your Body Weight – Perfect for Home – 8+ Hour Sit Time – Breathable Fabric – Carpet Wheels – Licorice
The Steelcase Series 1 Office Chair is a popular choice in the mid-range ergonomic seating category, known for blending solid ergonomics and adjustable features at a relatively affordable price point. This chair offers customizable support, making it ideal for those who value a balance of comfort and functionality while working long hours at a desk. While it has its imperfections, it stands out as a versatile, durable option for users who don’t want to spend top dollar on high-end office chairs but still want decent quality and performance.
Pros:
Cons:
Features & Functionality
Image credit: Steelcase
The Steelcase Series 1 excels in adjustability, offering nine points of customization, including seat depth, tilt tension, and armrests that move in four directions (height, depth, width, and pivot). This level of adjustment is rarely seen in chairs at this price point, giving users a significant range of motion to adapt the chair to their specific needs. The 3D knit mesh backrest is a standout feature, designed to provide breathable support and allow for some flex, which helps accommodate natural spine movements throughout the day.
However, the lumbar support—while adjustable in height—lacks depth control, which can make it challenging for some users to find the perfect fit. The tilt control also combines both resistance and limiter settings into one knob, offering only three reclining options. Unfortunately, the differences between these settings are minimal, limiting customization compared to other ergonomic chairs in the market.
Where the Series 1 shines is in its ease of assembly. The chair arrives nearly fully assembled and can be set up in under two minutes, making it convenient for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with complicated assembly instructions.
Design & Aesthetics
The Steelcase Series 1 embraces a minimalist design that manages to be both professional and modern. Its compact frame and soft, rounded edges offer a departure from the aggressively sharp lines seen in other ergonomic chairs, making it suitable for a variety of environments—from home offices to more traditional corporate settings. Available in a range of colors, including the Licorice variant, the Series 1 gives users the flexibility to match their workspace decor, whether they prefer a bold or understated look.
Despite its simplicity, the chair feels well-thought-out in terms of design. The mesh backrest, though not padded, offers a clean, sleek appearance while maintaining a focus on function. Its compact build also makes it a good choice for smaller workspaces, which is a major plus in a market dominated by bulky, heavy chairs.
However, the chair’s understated appearance might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more luxurious or robust aesthetic. The design is more about practicality than making a statement, which can be seen as either a positive or a downside, depending on user preferences.
Comfort & Build
Image credit: Steelcase
Comfort is the most subjective aspect of the Steelcase Series 1. While its foam seat is firm yet supportive, it’s not as plush as some higher-end models like the Steelcase Leap. Most users will find the chair comfortable for short- to medium-duration use, typically around five to six hours. However, for those who sit for extended periods (eight hours or more), the lack of deep padding and more limited lumbar support may lead to discomfort.
The build quality is solid for a chair at this price point. Weighing 29 pounds, it’s sturdy enough to last for years without showing significant wear, and the lifetime warranty on the frame speaks to its durability. The Series 1’s polyester upholstery is easy to maintain, and the chair holds up well to daily use, though some users have reported minor issues like lumbar support breaking over time. Overall, the chair offers a good balance of sturdiness and comfort, but it’s clear that some corners were cut to keep the price competitive.
One of the biggest drawbacks is the armrests. Though they are highly adjustable, they tend to shift unintentionally, especially when pressure is applied. Additionally, the lack of sufficient padding may become uncomfortable during extended periods of use, particularly for those who frequently lean on their armrests. This is one area where the chair’s mid-range price becomes apparent.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Steelcase Series 1?
The Steelcase Series 1 is a well-rounded office chair that excels in adjustability, compact design, and value. It’s an excellent choice for users who want an ergonomic chair without the hefty price tag of premium models like the Steelcase Leap. If you need a chair that offers significant customization options and plan to use it for around six hours a day, the Series 1 is a solid contender.
However, it may not be the best option for taller individuals or those who need full-day support, as its lumbar system and armrests are less comfortable than what’s offered by higher-end models. For users looking for a mid-range chair with good overall functionality, the Steelcase Series 1 delivers a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and durability.
