Herman Miller Embody vs Leap: A Thoughtful User Review

Last Updated on October 8, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Choosing between the Herman Miller Embody vs Leap can be tough — both are top ergonomic chairs trusted by professionals and home users alike. After using both for months, I found each shines in different ways: the Embody moves with your body, while the Leap gives firm, balanced support. From my experience testing them side by side, these chairs are built for serious comfort and long hours. If you’re trying to decide which one fits your work or gaming setup, let’s break down what really matters before you buy.

Herman Miller Embody Ergonomic Office Chair Review

The Herman Miller Embody is more than a chair. It feels alive. When I sit, it moves with me. I can work, write, or game for hours and never feel sore. It’s built to help your back stay happy and your blood keep flowing. If you want a chair that supports every small move you make, this is the one.

To buy this product, Click here.

What I Like

• Soft but Supportive Feel: The Pixelated Support in the seat and back is amazing. Tiny points flex and shift under your body. It spreads your weight and keeps pressure off your spine. I can sit all day without feeling stiff.
• Smart Spine Fit: The Backfit Adjustment lets you shape the backrest to match your spine. It’s simple to tweak and keeps my posture natural.
• Top-Tier Build: Every part feels solid. The tilt, the frame, the seat — all made with care. Even after long use, it feels brand new.

What Could Be Better

• The Price: It’s expensive. This is not a casual buy. But if you sit long hours, it’s a smart investment.
• Limited Arm Movement: The armrests only go up and down, in and out. I wish they also slid forward or turned sideways.
• Firm Lumbar Area: The lower back area can feel a bit hard. More cushion would make it perfect.

Is the Herman Miller Embody Good?

Yes, it’s one of the best chairs I’ve tested. It moves with you instead of against you. The seat breathes, the back flexes, and your body stays in line. I use it daily for work and gaming, and my posture has improved.

For U.S. buyers, the 12-year warranty is a big plus. Herman Miller’s support is easy to reach and very fast with repairs.

Herman Miller Embody Overview

Feature	Details
Pixelated Support System	Adapts to your every move for even pressure.
Backfit Adjustment	Aligns the chair to your spine’s shape.
Seat Layers	Four layers that flex and keep air flowing.
Material Options	RHYTHM fabric or leather, many colors.
Armrests	Height and width adjustable.
Models	Standard Embody and Logitech G Gaming Embody.
Weight Limit	Up to 300 lbs.
Warranty	Check Amazon.
Made In	USA.
Price Range	Check Price On Amazon.

Recommendation

If you sit for long hours, the Herman Miller Embody is worth it. It’s great for gamers, creators, and office workers who need strong back support.

If you like soft seats or want full arm control, check out the Steelcase Leap or Haworth Fern. They’re also great for long days.

For U.S. shoppers, try to test the chair in person. Once you sit in it, you’ll know why so many call it the best ergonomic chair ever made.

To buy this product, Click here.

Steelcase Leap V2 Office Chair (Black Fabric) Review

The Steelcase Leap V2 is one of the best ergonomic chairs you can buy. After using it for three months, I can say it’s built for comfort, support, and movement. The chair adjusts in so many ways that it feels made just for you. Whether I’m typing, leaning back to think, or on a long video call, it keeps my posture right. For anyone serious about healthy sitting, the Leap V2 is worth a look.

To buy this product, Click here.

What I Like

• LiveBack® Technology: The backrest moves as I move. It follows my spine and gives me steady support when I lean or stretch. This feature keeps my back pain-free, even on long workdays.
• Natural Glide System™: When I recline, the seat slides forward. It keeps my eyes at the same level with my screen and takes pressure off my neck. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
• 4D Adjustable Arms: The arms move up, down, forward, and sideways. I can always find the right spot for typing or reading. This flexibility is great for posture and wrist comfort.
• Strong Build Quality: The frame feels solid and well-made. Even after daily use, there are no squeaks or loose parts. Steelcase offers a 12-year warranty in the U.S., which adds peace of mind.

What Could Be Better

• Firm Seat Cushion: The seat feels firm, especially after long hours. Some users may prefer more padding or a softer feel.
• Recline Smoothness: The recline works well but could be smoother. It sometimes feels a bit stiff compared to premium competitors.
• Headrest Design: The optional headrest can push your head too far forward. I prefer the chair without it.

Is the Steelcase Leap V2 Good?

Yes — the Leap V2 is an excellent ergonomic chair. It supports your whole body, keeps your spine in line, and lets you move naturally. I’ve used it for writing, editing, and meetings, and it always feels balanced. It’s strong, reliable, and built for long-term comfort.

For buyers in the U.S., the 12-year warranty and local service options make it a safe investment. You can also find refurbished versions from Crandall Office Furniture, which are eco-friendly and certified by BIFMA LEVEL for sustainability.

Steelcase Leap V2 Overview

Feature	Details
LiveBack® Technology	Backrest moves with your spine for all-day support.
Natural Glide System™	Seat slides forward as you recline to reduce strain.
Adjustable Lumbar Support	Height and firmness dial for lower back comfort.
4D Adjustable Arms	Moves in height, width, depth, and pivot.
Contoured Seat	Shaped to reduce pressure under thighs.
Material Options	Fabric upholstery; breathable but not mesh.
Build Quality	Durable metal frame; supports up to 400 lbs.
Sustainability	BIFMA LEVEL certified; available in remanufactured form.
Warranty	Check Amazon.
Made By	Steelcase, with refurbishing by Crandall Office Furniture.

Recommendation

If you spend many hours at your desk, the Steelcase Leap V2 is a smart choice. It fits nearly every body type, supports natural movement, and keeps your spine aligned. I’d recommend it for anyone who works from home or in an office.

If you like a softer seat or full mesh back, consider the Herman Miller Aeron or Haworth Fern instead. But for adjustability, long-term comfort, and reliability, the Leap V2 still wins.

For U.S. buyers, you can buy new from Steelcase or save money by choosing a remanufactured Leap V2 from Crandall Office Furniture — it’s a sustainable and budget-friendly way to enjoy top-tier ergonomics.

To buy this product, Click here.

Herman Miller Embody vs Leap – Details Comparison

I’ve used both the Herman Miller Embody and the Steelcase Leap V2 for months. I worked, wrote, and even gamed in them. Both are top-tier ergonomic chairs, but they deliver comfort in very different ways. Here’s my honest, experience-based breakdown to help you pick the one that fits your needs best.

Back Support: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Feature	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Support System	Pixelated Support that adapts to micro-movements	LiveBack® system that mirrors your spine
Feel	Dynamic and flexible	Firm and steady
Posture Help	Keeps your spine in motion naturally	Keeps your back aligned and supported
Best For	Active sitters who shift often	Users who want firm lumbar support

In my use, the Embody felt like it floated with my back, adjusting every second. The Leap stayed more grounded, holding me in a strong upright position. I loved the Embody for creativity and long writing hours, while the Leap worked better when I needed focus and structure.

Rating:

Embody – 9.5/10

Leap – 9/10

Seat Comfort: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Feature	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Seat Type	Layered flexible seat with airflow	Firm cushioned seat with contour
Pressure Relief	Excellent for long sessions	Good, but firmer on thighs
Breathability	Great airflow	Moderate airflow
Best For	All-day comfort and long sessions	Shorter sessions or firmer preference

After hours of sitting, the Embody’s seat felt soft but supportive. My legs stayed cool and pressure-free. The Leap seat, while supportive, got firm after long hours. It’s better for those who prefer a solid cushion feel.

Rating:

Embody – 9.2/10

Leap – 8.6/10

Adjustability: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Feature	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Backfit Adjustment	Yes	No
Arm Adjustments	2D	4D (height, width, pivot, depth)
Seat Depth Control	Yes	Yes
Recline System	Smooth tilt with natural motion	Natural Glide System™ keeps eyes on screen

The Leap wins in adjustability. I could tweak everything — from arm depth to tilt tension — until it felt perfect. The Embody is simpler but focuses more on natural body movement than micro-adjustments.

Rating:

Embody – 8.8/10

Leap – 9.4/10

Build Quality & Design: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Feature	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Frame	Sculpted and futuristic	Classic and functional
Materials	Premium, breathable fabric	Durable fabric and steel frame
Look & Feel	Sleek and modern	Professional and simple
Durability	Excellent	Excellent

Both chairs are built like tanks. The Embody feels like a high-tech sculpture, while the Leap has a more understated, office look. Both last years without squeaks or wear.

Rating:

Embody – 9.3/10

Leap – 9.2/10

Performance: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Both chairs excel at ergonomic support but in different ways. The Embody promotes movement and circulation, reducing fatigue. The Leap helps you stay still in ideal posture for hours. I noticed less back tension with the Embody after full workdays.

Rating: Embody – 9.4/10 | Leap – 9.0/10

Ease of Use: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

The Leap is easier to adjust and learn quickly. The Embody takes time to understand — especially the back tension knob — but once set, it’s effortless. I prefer the Leap for shared spaces or multiple users.

Rating:

Embody – 8.9/10

Leap – 9.3/10

Value for Money: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Feature	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Price Range (USD)	$1,600–$1,995	$1,100–$1,300 (new), ~$600 refurbished
Warranty	12 years	12 years
Availability	Direct from Herman Miller	New or remanufactured from Steelcase or Crandall

The Leap offers better value if you’re budget-conscious. The Embody, though expensive, feels like a long-term health investment. If posture comfort is your top goal, the Embody earns its price.

Rating:

Embody – 8.7/10

Leap – 9.5/10

Overall: Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Both chairs are elite, but they serve different types of sitters. The Herman Miller Embody is for people who move a lot, need flexibility, and want a lighter, breathable feel. The Steelcase Leap V2 is for those who prefer firm support, deep adjustability, and a traditional office style.

Category	Herman Miller Embody	Steelcase Leap V2
Back Support	9.5	9
Seat Comfort	9.2	8.6
Adjustability	8.8	9.4
Build Quality	9.3	9.2
Performance	9.4	9
Ease of Use	8.9	9.3
Value for Money	8.7	9.5
Overall Score	9.1/10	9.1/10

In short, if you want a chair that moves with you, pick the Herman Miller Embody. If you want full control and strong lumbar support, go for the Steelcase Leap V2. I use the Embody for creativity and the Leap when I need focus — and both keep my back happy after long hours.

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FAQs for Herman Miller Embody vs Leap

Which chair is better, the Herman Miller Embody or Steelcase Leap?

Both chairs are great. The Herman Miller Embody moves with your body, while the Steelcase Leap gives strong lumbar support. The best choice depends on your sitting style.

Is the Herman Miller Embody worth the higher price compared to the Leap?

Yes, if you sit long hours. The Embody helps blood flow and posture. But if you want similar comfort for less money, the Leap offers strong value.

Which chair is more adjustable, the Herman Miller Embody or the Steelcase Leap?

The Steelcase Leap wins for adjustability. Its arms, seat depth, and tilt can all be tuned easily. The Embody focuses more on natural movement than fine control.

Which chair is better for long working hours?

The Herman Miller Embody feels cooler and softer for long sessions. The Leap stays firm and supportive. I find the Embody better for 8+ hour workdays.

Does the Herman Miller Embody or Steelcase Leap last longer?

Both are built to last over 10 years. The Embody has a tech-inspired build, while the Leap uses strong steel. With care, either chair will last a decade or more.