I know firsthand the importance of having a comfortable and functional workspace. After years of sitting at a desk for hours on end, and making the decision to working from home more often, I decided to make the switch to a standing desk. Not only has it improved my posture and overall health, but it has also increased my productivity and focus during the workday. If you’re considering investing in a standing desk for your home office, here are some things to keep in mind to choose the right one for you.
- Consider the Height
One of the most important factors when choosing a standing desk is making sure it is the right height for you. When standing, your arms should be at a 90-degree angle when typing on your keyboard, and your monitor should be at eye level. This will help prevent strain on your neck, shoulders, and arms. Most standing desks are adjustable, so be sure to check the height range before making a purchase. - Choose the Right Surface
The surface of your standing desk is another crucial factor to consider. You’ll want to make sure it’s large enough to accommodate your computer, keyboard, and any other work materials you use regularly. If you’re someone who likes to spread out your work or have multiple monitors, a wider surface may be necessary. Additionally, consider the material of the surface. Some standing desks come with a wood or laminate finish, while others have a more durable and easy-to-clean surface like glass or metal. If you choose glass you also need to think about your mouse – try using an optical mouse on glass and tell me how great it is! 🙂 - Look for Stability
A standing desk should be stable and sturdy, especially if you plan on using it for extended periods of time. Look for desks with a wide base and adjustable feet to ensure it stays level on any surface. You’ll also want to check the weight capacity to make sure it can hold your computer and any other equipment you need. - Evaluate Ease of Use
A standing desk should be easy to adjust from sitting to standing and back again. Look for desks with simple and intuitive mechanisms, such as electric or pneumatic lifts. If you plan on sharing the desk with someone else, consider a desk with multiple memory settings so you can easily switch between preferred heights. - Consider Additional Features
There are a variety of additional features you can consider when choosing a standing desk, depending on your needs. Some desks come with built-in cable management to keep cords organized and out of sight. Others have adjustable keyboard trays or added shelves for additional storage. Some desks even come with built-in exercise equipment, such as a stationary bike or treadmill. - Will you want to change the desk top later?Â
Sometimes your needs change. I went from a solid black 46″ (120cm) x 24″ (60cm) desk, to a black walnut 55″ (140 cm) x 28″ (70 cm) desk when I upgraded my standard monitor to an ultrawide monitor. Because I chose a vendor that sold desk tops separately, I was able to simply order the new desk top and the holes were pre-drilled for the same stand making the swap a 30 minute task rather than a full day of planning. What can I say, I’m not good at measuring and drilling holes!
After considering these factors, it’s time to start looking at specific standing desks. There are many retailers that sell standing desks online, and it can be overwhelming to choose just one. Here are some of my top picks:
- Uplift Desk
The Uplift Desk is a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality, customizable standing desk. The desk can be adjusted from 24.5 inches to 50.1 inches, making it suitable for people of all heights. It also comes with a sturdy steel frame, adjustable feet, and a variety of surface options. - Fully Jarvis Desk
The Fully Jarvis Desk is another great option, with a sleek and modern design. The desk can be adjusted from 24.5 inches to 50 inches and comes with an electric motor for easy adjustments. It also features a programmable memory keypad, making it easy to switch between sitting and standing positions. - VariDesk Pro Plus 36
If you’re looking for a standing desk converter instead of a full desk, the VariDesk Pro Plus 36 is a popular option. The converter sits on top of your existing desk and can be easily adjusted to different heights. It also comes with a built-in keyboard tray and can hold up to35 pounds of equipment. - Flexispot Standing Desk
The Flexispot Standing Desk is another highly-rated option, with a gas spring hovering system for smooth and easy height adjustments. It can be adjusted from 30 inches to 50 inches and comes with a spacious work surface. The desk also has a quick-release keyboard tray for added comfort.
Flexispot in US
Flexispot in UK - Ikea Bekant Desk
For those on a budget, the Ikea Bekant Desk is a great option. It’s simple and functional, with a height range of 22 inches to 48 inches. The desk comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and it also has a cable management net under the surface to keep cords organized.
My specific Set up
I’ve had my Flexispot Standing desk for some time and I upgraded the desk top recently. Whilst my specific model is not available in 2023, it looks very similar to this E5 model that is available in 2023. I appreciate the extra memory settings on the controller and the ability to go from sitting to standing and back again with the dedicated stand and sitting buttons. I use one memory setting for my work set up and one memory setting for my home set up – so that when I am in “home mode” I can push my seat completely underneath it and reduce the space my set up uses.
Investing in a standing desk can be a great way to improve your health and productivity while working from home. By considering factors such as height, surface area, stability, ease of use, and additional features, you can choose the right standing desk for your needs. Don’t forget to also consider the brand and retailer you purchase from, as well as any warranties or customer service options available. With the right standing desk, you’ll be able to work comfortably and efficiently from home for years to come.
Header Image by reallywellmadedesks from Pixabay
2 comments