Weight gain, obesity and their associated health conditions have been the focus among major health concerns for decades. How these conditions are worsened through the sedentary lifestyle of those who sit at a desk in an office for 40+ hours per week is top among those concerns as well. One solution that is slowly gaining ground among more health conscious individuals is the use of standing desks in place of traditional office desks.
Choosing a standing desk among the wide variety of models available is particularly difficult given the fact that most people simply aren’t very familiar with them. Our buyer’s guide can help remedy that by presenting some of the benefits and features of standing desks that you ought to know before making a purchase. In addition to our buyer’s guide, our reviews of ten standing desks will provide you with an opportunity to compare how the various features discussed in our buyer’s guide are implemented in different models.
The objective of this article is to provide you with enough information to make a well-qualified decision when it comes time to buy the standing desk that will best suit your needs as well as meet your goals and expectations.
Best Standing Desks Buyer’s Guide
Why do you need a standing desk?
Recent studies have looked into the health issues associated with working all day at a desk. Among the conditions are weight gain and obesity, which are typically linked to diabetes, heart disease and numerous other chronic conditions and illnesses. Consequently, if you are concerned that these issues might catch up to you, a standing desk might be the solution to achieving a level of better health while at work.
What benefits can you expect from a standing desk?
Though space and the unnecessary expense of over-priced office chairs for greater comfort are also possible, the benefits that you can expect to gain from a standing desk are mostly related to improved health. Here are seven of the possible health benefits that can come from a standing desk:
• Lowers Risk of Weight Gain and Obesity. In many ways, this particular benefit contributes to many of the other benefits listed. In essence, you burn an additional 1000 extra calories per week from standing rather than sitting at your desk.
• May Lower Blood Sugar Levels. Those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes can reduce their blood sugar spike after eating lunch by up to 43% according to a Cheshire, England study.
• May Lower Risk of Heart Disease. Numerous studies have shown that sedentary time can increase heart disease risk as high as 150%.
• Reduces Back Pain. Studies in Minneapolis, Minnesota indicate that sit-stand desk reduced neck and upper-back pain by 54% after just 4 weeks of use.
• Mood and Energy Level Improvement. Stress and fatigue are reduced and there is an increase of energy and vigor for those who make use of standing desks.
• Boost Productivity. This follows along the line of the above benefit, but is also a result of being more apt to move around and work with other office members more readily.
• May Help You Live Longer. Numerous studies have calculated a possible improvement of lifespan and suggest that reducing sitting to only 3 hours per day could add up to 2 years to your life.
The benefits listed above are backed by a large number of science based studies. To explore those studies in more detail you can visit Healthline.com.
What are some features to look for in a standing desk?
Standing desks come in various shapes, sizes and models. Sorting out one from another requires a set of general standards or features that can be compared in order to select the specific model that best suits your needs and preferences. Here is a list of some of those general features:
Adjustable
A standing desk needs to be able to accommodate various heights of users, so adjustability rather than a static height becomes very important. In addition, your standing habits change as you become more used to utilizing a standing desk and you might want to raise or lower it to accommodate those changes later on. Finally, you might also want to use it with a chair on occasion and will need to be able to collapse the desk down to a standard sitting height.
Height Memory with Syncing
Standing desk heights can be adjusted in several different ways, but one of the most convenient is electronic version that allows you to preset different preferences and heights into memory for making quick adjustments . Some desks even automatically sync heights from one side to the other more accurately so that you don’t get a sloped desktop.
Multi-Level Surfaces
Multi-level surfaces on standup desks allow you to include shelf space and storage space for greater organization. In addition, they allow you to place your monitor on a different level than your keyboard, or allow you to place your laptop on one surface while linking it to your desktop and your desktop monitor on another.
Additional Considerations
The above features are general features that are an integral part of most standup desks. There are some additional considerations to keep in mind as well:
• Cable management. A hazard that can be associated with some standing desks is related to cables. A disk with cable management is a helpful feature to have.
• Weight support. Though most items on a desk are not heavy, your desk still needs to be strong enough to support between 200 and 300 pounds, which is enough to accommodate a full range of equipment and additional storage.
• Made of high-quality materials. You will want your desk to have an inviting and professional look and quality materials will help make that a reality.
• Standing Mat. This is certainly an accessory to keep in mind when purchasing a standup desk. A good standing mat can help reduce fatigue associated with standing to work as well as make it easier to transition into using it.
With the various benefits and features related to standing desks in mind, making a selection between different models can be made easier as you know what to look for. Comparing the desks in our top standing desks reviews can help you narrow down your selection to the one which best serves your needs and meets your expectations.
Top Rated Best Standing Desks – Reviews
Stand Steady FlexPro Hero Two Level Standing Desk
Transitioning into a standing desk could not be easier than the Stand Steady FlexPro Hero Two Level Standing Desk. This is a desk converter which extends up to 20.5,” making it the ideal height for individuals up to 6’-3” in height when placed on a standard 30” under desk. The adjustment mechanism is hydraulic, making it nearly weightless to adjust and will hold up to 35 pounds.
The Good
• The FlexPro makes it easy to start trying out a standing desk without getting rid of the desk you already have.
• Its height range works well for most individuals.
• It is easily adjustable with its hydraulic lift.
• Great ergonomics whether being used sitting or standing.
• This is an affordable option backed by a 90-day, risk-free guarantee.
The Not So Good
• This desk is a little less than stable.
• The positioning of the monitor while standing is not ideal.
• It might be a little too tall for some individuals when used in sitting mode.
A Great Choice If…
You aren’t quite ready to make a permanent switch or need some time to come up with the cash necessary for investing in a higher end standing desk. You might be a little less than impressed with the stability of this unit.
Executive Office Solutions Portable Adjustable Aluminum Laptop Desk
You can easily convert any laptop workstation into a standing desk using the Executive Office Solutions Portable Adjustable Aluminum Laptop Desk. This lightweight, aluminum laptop desk is easily adjustable to lift your laptop up to 19” above your desk top, counter or even your kitchen table. It includes a laptop desk with a deep lip to keep your laptop from slipping off, an adjustable mouse pad that can be set to any angle for comfort, and includes 2 laptop cooling fans as well. It can be easily folded up to carry and easily adjusted to fit any height.
The Good
• This is a very affordable portable solution for those who primarily work using a laptop.
• Its height is easy to adjust up to 19” above the desktop, counter or table you place it on.
• It has 2 built-in cooling fans and fully adjustable mouse pad for the perfect angle.
• It can easily be folded up and carried along with your laptop.
The Not So Good
• There is no rubber on its base to keep it from slipping.
• If you do not balance the weight properly it will tip over.
• It is manually adjustable.
A Great Choice If…
You primarily work with a laptop and want the option of standing or sitting while working. You might not be impressed with the weight balancing aspects of this design.
LUXOR Standup-CF48-DW Stand Up Desk
The Luxor Standup-CF48-DW Stand Up Desk is a true standup desk which can be easily adjusted from 29” for sitting to 42.75” for standing. This desk is set on a durable steel frame with a powder-coated finish and rides on 3” furniture casters with 2 locking brakes. Its height is adjusted using a smooth-gliding, manual crank.
The Good
• This is a durable option for those who wish to transition between sitting and standing throughout the day.
• Its casters make it easy to move it from one place in your office or office building to another.
• It has a good height range for taller individuals.
• It is affordable for most budgets.
The Not So Good
• Assembly instructions are not entirely clear and easy to read.
• The cranking system can be a pain to raise and lower.
A Great Choice If…
You need a mobile and affordable option that is well-built and can be used sitting or standing. Manually cranking to raise and lower this desk might not be your cup of tea.
Standup Desk Store Mobile Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation
Another mobile standing desk option to consider is the Standup Desk Store Mobile Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation. This desk is wider than many of the models reviewed at 48” and adjusts from 34” to 46” in height measuring from the top shelf. The keyboard and monitor surfaces are optimized for proper posture whether standing or sitting. It easily rolls from one room to another on 3” furniture casters, two of which are equipped with breaks.
The Good
• The durable build of this unit adds to its longevity.
• It adjusts from a standing height to sitting height and several levels in between.
• Keyboard and monitor placement is optimized for best posture.
• It rides on casters making it easy to move from one location to another inside your office building.
• This unit is easily affordable on most budgets.
The Not So Good
• Adjusting the height of this unit involves removing bolts in the vertical members and raising or lowering the desk to a specific height and then re-reinserting the bolts at the new height.
• The weight of this desk is unevenly distributed to the back casters.
A Great Choice If…
You are committed to using this as a standing only desk and won’t be making regular adjustments. Those who want to transition regularly from one level to another should look for a different model.
Stand Steady Tranzendesk Dual Level Standing Desk
Another versatile option with lots of width is the Stand Steady Tranzendesk Dual Level Standing Desk. You can use this as a standing or sitting desk throughout the day by easily raising or lowering the desktop to the level you like. It is constructed of high-quality, powder-coated steel and can be adjusted from 29.5” all the way up to 46.5.” The crank can be mounted on either side of the desk and it raises both ends of the desk at the same time. The dual surfaces are spacious and allow plenty of room to work.
The Good
• Durable, powder-coated steel construction gives this desk plenty of longevity.
• Its height adjustments are a good range from sitting to standing.
• The crank will raise and lower both sides of the desk in sync.
• This desk is moderately priced to fit most budgets.
The Not So Good
• The assembly of this unit can be a little bit complicated.
• The height adjustment crank location leaves it in the way.
A Great Choice If…
You want an easily-adjustable desk for regularly changing from sitting to standing height on a durable frame. Hooking yourself on the crank handle while standing or sitting might not be a pleasant experience.
Mount-It!! Mobile Stand Up Desk
The Mount-It!! Mobile Stand Up Desk is another viable option for both a standing and sitting desk as well as a portable workstation for making presentations. This desk is height adjustable from a standard height sitting desk up to 46” for a standing desk. It is constructed on a durable, powder-coated steel frame and rolls on 1.5” furniture casters for easy portability. Four shelves for storing various supplies and tools that allow you to quickly and easily get your hands on them are included in its design.
The Good
• The height adjustment levels on this desk have a good range for ergonomic sitting or standing.
• This is a durably built desk that is easily portable on 1.5” casters.
• Its spacious shelving allows you to have all of the materials, tools and supplies necessary for working or making presentations right at your finger tips.
• This is a very affordable option for most budgets.
The Not So Good
• The manual adjustment of this desk requires you to unscrew a pair of set-screws, lift the desk, and then tighten the set-screws back into place.
• Its durability for regular use is questionable.
A Great Choice If…
You need an affordable standup desk that can double as a podium or for making media-based presentations. The manual adjustments on this desk are going to be less than ideal for most users who want to make quicker and easier height adjustments.
FlexiSpot M2B Standing Desk
The smooth hydraulic assisted up and down movement of the FlexiSpot M2B Standing Desk desktop makes it easy to transition from a sitting desk to a standing desk and back again within seconds. Its wide footprint provides great stability and plenty of working space where you need it most. This desk also includes a quick-release keyboard tray and mouse pad. Its standing height adjusts to fit individuals from 5’-1” to 6’-1” tall.
The Good
• This desk has a smooth, hydraulic assisted up and down movement making it very easy to adjust.
• It has ample workspace and is well made for greater durability.
• The scissor-lift action folds up inside its own footprint.
• It includes a quick-release keyboard tray and mouse pad.
The Not So Good
• The height range of this unit isn’t well-suited for taller individuals.
• This is a little bit pricey for a unit that sets on top of another desktop or table.
A Great Choice If…
You want a higher quality desktop unit with very smooth adjustment and don’t mind paying a bit extra. If you are over 6’-1” tall you will have to look for a different model.
Slendor Standing Desk Converter Sit Stand Desk
A spacious workspace along with air-spring risers are notable features on the Slendor Standing Desk Converter Sit Stand Desk. This unit fits on top of your existing desk allowing you to collapse it completely for regular sitting work or easily raise it up to accommodate standing. You get plenty of durability built into the construction of the design of this desk and it will potentially adjust to 200 different heights between 5’-0” and 6’-3” tall individual in order to provide the perfect fit.
The Good
• The Slendor has a durable design and stable footprint.
• It is easily adjusted to up to 200 different heights with air-spring lifters.
• The workspace on this unit is spacious.
• It adjusts to a wide range of heights from 5’-0” to 6’-3”.
• Included with this desk is a 100% money-back guarantee.
The Not So Good
• The air-springs on this unit are known to leak and allow the desktop to slowly collapse.
• You really have to lower the desk first and then adjust the height upward.
A Great Choice If…
You want a stable and spacious desktop on a table-top standing desk unit. The raising and lowering of this desk might not live up to expectations.
Stand Steady Standing Desk – X-Elite Pro Height Adjustable Desk Converter
The Stand Steady Standing Desk – X-Elite Pro Height Adjustable Desk Converter allows you to easily convert your regular desk into a standing desk with ease. The spacious surface of this desk allows for plenty of workspace. The standing height adjusts between 7” and 16” above the surface of the desk underneath. It has an award winning design that is ready to go when you take it out of the box.
The Good
• The base on this unit makes it stable without any wobble.
• The lift assist on this desk allows you to easily change heights between 7” and 16” above your existing desk top.
• The workspace on this desk is spacious.
• This desk is moderately priced to fit most budgets.
• There is no assembly required with this desk.
The Not So Good
• It does not support a great deal of weight.
• The height adjustment does not accommodate individuals over 6’-0” tall.
• You have to purchase a separate keyboard tray.
A Great Choice If…
You want a standup desk to place on your existing desktop which is ready to go right out of the box. If you are taller than 6’-0” tall, this model will not work for you.
VARIDESK Pro Plus 36 Electric Standing Desk
Another fully assembled unit that is ready to work straight out of the box is the Varidesk Pro Plus 36 Electric Standing Desk. This unit includes a powerhub for added convenience and includes a large-sized keyboard and mouse tray as well as a large enough upper deck for dual monitor setup. Cable management is also made easy with this desk. Heights on this desk are adjusted electronically using push-button technology and can be adjusted up to 18.75” above your existing desktop.
The Good
• You get electronic, push-button height adjustment straight out of the box with this desktop unit.
• This desk is stable and durable for longevity.
• It will adjust to heights of up to 18.75” above your existing destop.
• It comes with a powerhub and a large keyboard/mouse platform.
• This unit also includes a 30-day, money-back guarantee.
The Not So Good
• The lifting speed on this desk is slow and inconsistent.
• It does not accommodate users over 6’-0” tall.
• This unit is pretty pricey.
A Great Choice If…
You want the convenience of electronic, push-button height adjustment for a desktop unit. If you are a taller individual, this desk might not meet your expectations.
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