ConsFirst / Office chairs / Compare
Steelcase Leap vs Branch Verve Chair
Which one has the downsides you can live with?
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The short answer
Steelcase Leap ranks higher (#2 vs #4 of 8) and scores better on adjustability, back support, easy assembly, durability & warranty.
The biggest complaint about the Steelcase Leap is expensive, with paid add-ons; for the Branch Verve Chair it's annoying armrests. Pick the one whose catch bothers you less.
Side by side
| Steelcase Leap | Branch Verve Chair | |
|---|---|---|
| Rank in office chairs | #2 | #4 |
| Price tier | $$$ | $$ |
| Type | Padded | Padded |
| Amazon 1–2★ share | 16% | 13% |
| Overall score | 4.4 | 3.8 |
| Comfort | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Adjustability | 4.5 | 3.0 |
| Back support | 4.5 | 4.0 |
| Easy assembly | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Durability & warranty | 4.0 | 3.5 |
Price tiers: $ under $250 · $$ $250–700 · $$$ over $700. Highlighted = clearly better (a score gap of 0.3 or more, or a 1–2★ share at least 3 points lower). Scores are explained, with sources, on each product's page.
Top complaints
Steelcase Leap
- Expensive, with paid add-ons
Tom's Guide says it starts at $979 and that 4-way arms, extra lumbar, a headrest and hard-floor casters each cost extra. TechRadar gave it 3/5 for value. Amazon owners are split on value for money.
- Less breathable than mesh
Tom's Guide says it is less breathable than the Aeron, and TechRadar advises skipping it if you live in a hot climate.
Source: Tom's Guide review, TechRadar review - Firm armrests; some cylinder and height problems
TechRadar's only comfort complaint was hard-edged armrests. Amazon's summary mentions owners reporting height-adjustment and pneumatic cylinder problems.
Branch Verve Chair
- Annoying armrests
Wirecutter found that pulling on an arm unlocks it and drops it to its lowest position, so testers kept readjusting. Tom's Guide notes the arms only adjust vertically. Some Amazon owners report the armrest not locking in place.
- Forward-sloping seat, fit limits
Wirecutter testers found the seat's forward slope unsettling, as if they might slide off. Amazon owners are split on seat size, with some saying it doesn't suit tall people; the weight limit is 275 lb.
- Pricier than Branch's own Ergonomic Chair
Wirecutter says it costs much more than Branch's Ergonomic Chair, which has more adjustments. Headrest is a $59 add-on, and Amazon owners disagree on value.
Who should pick which
Pick the Steelcase Leap if
People who prefer a cushioned seat
Tall users who need seat-depth adjustment
Fine-tuning lumbar position and firmness
Skip it if: You live somewhere hot; You want soft armrests; You're on a budget
Pick the Branch Verve Chair if
A colorful chair that looks good in a home
Upright posture with a soft seat
Hardwood floors (nylon casters)
Skip it if: You need side-to-side or forward/back arm adjustment; You're over 275 lb or very tall; You want a headrest included
We don't list prices — they change daily. Paid links.