Steelcase Karman vs KI Altus

Side by side from official specifications, sourced prices and User Insights. No written comparison exists for this pair yet.

Steelcase

Steelcase Karman

$1,199 – $1,543

KI Altus

$881 – $1,516

$318

lower starting price for KI Altus than Steelcase Karman at the brand stores

Differences at a glance

Steelcase KarmanKI Altus

Price: $1,199 – $1,543$881 – $1,516
Seat height: 15.625–20 in (39.7–50.8 cm)17–21.75 in (43.2–55.2 cm); 16.25–20.75 in (41.3–52.7 cm)
Seat depth: Fixed seat depth (no number given)17.25–19.75 in (43.8–50.2 cm); 15.5–18 in (39.4–45.7 cm)
Load capacity: 350 lb (158.8 kg)supports up to 400 pounds
Arms: 4D arms or armless; 4D ARM: raise up and down, pivot in and out, shift in all directionsAdjustable arms, fixed arms, or armless
Headrest: No headrest option; High Back version has an adjustable neck support pillowHeadrest available (Mesh Task / Fabric Task Headrest Adjustable Armchair)
Lumbar support: Optional lumbar supportMesh chair: optional adjustable lumbar (height and depth); fabric chair: automatic lumbar support
Warranty: Steelcase Limited Lifetime WarrantyLifetime

Which is cheaper, the Steelcase Karman or the KI Altus?

The KI Altus is cheaper to start: $881 versus $1,199 for the Steelcase Karman at the brand stores (Sep 2026).

Which has a headrest?

Only the KI Altus (as standard); the Steelcase Karman does not offer one.

What do owners mention most?

Comfort for the Steelcase Karman, and back support for the KI Altus, based on review summaries.