Steelcase Series 1 vs Knoll Life Chair

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

Steelcase

Steelcase Series 1

$549 – $750

Knoll

Knoll Life Chair

From $1,947

$1,398

lower starting price for Steelcase Series 1 than Knoll Life Chair at the brand stores

Differences at a glance

Steelcase Series 1Knoll Life Chair

Price: $549 – $750From $1,947
Seat height: 16.5–21.5 in (41.9-54.6 cm); 14.75–17.75 in (37.5-45.1 cm); 17.25–22 in (43.8-55.9 cm)16.5–21.75 in (42-55 cm); 17" – 22.25"; 17.25–22.5 in (44-57 cm); 15.5" – 19.25"
Seat depth: 15.5"D to 17.75"D (functional seat depth)15–19 in (38-48 cm)
Recline: Weight-activated synchro tilt; comfort dial with upright back lock, boost setting and weight-activated full reclineAngle Between Seat and Back 95° - 119°; Tilt Range of Back 24°
Arms: 4D arms (standard), height-adjustable arms or armlessArms available in fixed height, height-adjustable or high performance; high performance arms adjust 2.5" in armpad width (1.25" per side) and 3" armpad fore/aft movement; Arm Height from Floor 23.25" - 32.75" (height adjustable / high performance); 26.24" – 31.25" (fixed arm)
Headrest: Optional headrest; adjusts 3.25" verticallyOptional headrest measures 9"W x 6" - 9"H
Lumbar support: Adjustable lumbar is standard; fixed lumbar is available (3D Microknit Back only)Lumbar Support (Fixed) 7.5"; optional height adjustable lumbar (Exceeds 5.5" - 9.8"), 11.5" x 5.5"
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty; 12-year, multi-shift, 24/7 parts and laborStructural components: 12 Years; Upholstery, textiles, leathers, finishes: 3 Years

From 5 Steelcase Series 1 and 4 Knoll Life Chair user reviews, most mentioned first. Green is liked, orange is a caution.

Which is cheaper, the Steelcase Series 1 or the Knoll Life Chair?

The Steelcase Series 1 is cheaper to start: $549 versus $1,947 for the Knoll Life Chair at the brand stores (Sep 2026).

Which has a headrest?

Both: the Steelcase Series 1 as an option and the Knoll Life Chair as an option.

What do owners mention most?

Adjustability for the Steelcase Series 1, and design for the Knoll Life Chair, based on review summaries.