Steelcase Leap V2 vs Okamura Contessa II: Which Should You Buy?

Introduction

The Steelcase Leap V2 and Okamura Contessa II are both highly adjustable task chairs with different recline systems and option lists. This comparison uses manufacturer specifications; it is a research-based comparison, not a hands-on test, and it does not rank comfort.

At a glance

Steelcase Leap V2 — strengths & weaknesses

Documented features: Steelcase lists LiveBack with height-adjustable lumbar and lower back firmness, a variable back stop with five stops, a seat depth of 15.75–18.75 in, and a 400 lb weight capacity for the work chair. A headrest is an option.

Check before buying: Arm, lumbar and headrest options vary by configuration. Owner comfort reports vary, and this comparison has not tested the seat over long sessions.

Okamura Contessa II — strengths & weaknesses

Documented features: Okamura lists ankle-tilt reclining with a 26° recline angle, seat-height and recline controls at the armrests, a mesh or cushion seat, and a choice of 4D arm or fixed arm. Its global spec guide (BIFMA) lists a seat height of 434–544 mm (17.1–21.4 in), and the chair is tested for users up to 300 lb (136 kg).

Check before buying: Lumbar support and headrests are options, not standard on every chair. Contessa II is sold through Okamura's Japanese store and regional partners rather than a US manufacturer store, so confirm the seller, configuration and warranty service in your country.

How they differ

Recline works differently: Steelcase lists a seat-to-back angle of 96°–120° with five back stops, while Okamura describes ankle-tilt reclining with a 26° recline angle. Contessa II places seat-height and recline controls at the armrests.

Weight capacity: Steelcase lists 400 lb for the Leap V2 work chair; Okamura lists 300 lb (136 kg) for Contessa II. Warranty terms differ by market: Steelcase lists a Limited Lifetime warranty (12 years, multi-shift, 24/7 parts and labor), and Okamura's global statement outside Japan gives 10 years for structural components, 5 years for casters, gas cylinder and levers, and 2 years for finishes, mesh, fabric, cushions and arm pads.

Seat dimensions: Steelcase lists a seat depth of 15.75–18.75 in and a seat width of 19.25 in; Okamura's global spec guide lists a seat depth of 400–450 mm (15.7–17.7 in) and a seat width of 530 mm (cushion seat) or 520 mm (mesh seat). Standard seat height is 15.5–20.5 in for Leap V2 and 434–544 mm (17.1–21.4 in) for Contessa II.

Who should buy which

Consider the Okamura Contessa II if: you want recline and seat-height controls at the armrests, ankle-tilt reclining, or a choice of mesh or cushion seat, and you can confirm a seller and warranty service in your country.

Consider the Steelcase Leap V2 if: you want height-adjustable LiveBack lumbar, adjustable seat depth and a 400 lb weight capacity, and prefer buying from a US manufacturer store with listed prices.

Test before buying either: Try the exact configuration you plan to order, including arms, lumbar and any headrest, and check seat height and depth against your desk.

Bottom line

Neither chair is a universal winner. Leap V2 lists a wider seat-depth adjustment and a higher weight capacity; Contessa II offers armrest-mounted controls, ankle-tilt reclining and optional headrests. Compare the configurations you would actually buy.

Compare delivered quotes for matching configurations, including return freight and warranty service.