Standing desks, also known as sit-stand desks or height-adjustable desks, allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions while at work. From improved posture and reduced back pain, to an increase in focus and productivity levels, the benefits of standing desks have been well documented, and it's no wonder more of us are looking to invest in one.
However, because there are so many options available, choosing the right standing desk can be a daunting and difficult task. The good news is that we're here to help!
In this comprehensive guide, we share the key factors you should consider when choosing a standing desk, as well as the top questions you should ask yourself to narrow down your selections, starting with determining the best type of desk for you.
There are several different types of standing desks, but the biggest difference between types is whether they are electric, pneumatic or manual. In other words, the method by which the desk adjusts.
Electric desks tend to be quieter and easier to use, but manual desks are more affordable and don't require power to use. Learn more about the key differences between electric and manual standing desks here.
The average desk width is 48 to 72 inches, and the average depth is between 20 and 30 inches. However, there isn’t one right answer as to how wide or deep a desk should be. Consider how much space you have, and what you will be using the desk for, before you make a decision on size.
Don't forget to consider what you want to keep on your desk and how you want to position it. In general, if you have a full-size desk mat, keyboard and monitor (or just like to spread out), you will need a deeper desk than those with just a laptop.
On a similar note, each standing desk has a weight limit which determines how much you can store on top of your desk before it will start to struggle to adjust in height. If you exceed the recommended limits, it may damage the motor, and in very rare cases, your desk might collapse under the weight.
Standing desks can typically hold a maximum of 80 kg to 160 kg in weight which is more than enough to hold your standard desk setup (laptop, keyboard, mouse). However, additional desk accessories, such as a monitor, laptop stand, printer and lamp can significantly increase the load.
Determine what you want to store on your desk before you make a decision, and choose a desk that accommodates this load.
How much height range does your ideal desk have? If you’re taller or shorter than average, then you need to make sure the desk adjusts to a height that is comfortable for you.
Whether you're standing up or sitting down, your desk should be at a height that allows your elbows to rest at your sides while typing, with your forearms parallel to the ground. Your monitor(s) should also be at eye level, so you don't need to look up or down at your screen.
Additional accessories, such as a laptop stand or monitor arms, can help to lift the screen up to the recommended height and position if it's not possible with your desk.
If multiple people are sharing the sit-stand desk then it’s best to find a desk with a large range, to accommodate for all heights and requirements.
The construction and materials used for a standing desk play a crucial role in its durability, stability, and overall performance.
Steel frames are well-known for being robust and stable, which makes them suitable for heavy-duty and long-term use. Aluminium frames are another good option, offering a lighter alternative to steel that still provides a strong and stable base.
As well as the frame itself, you need to consider the desktop materials. Solid wood, laminate and melamine faced chipboard (MFC) tend to be the most popular choices.
The design of the standing desk should compliment the overall aesthetic of your workspace, so choose a desk finish and colour that goes with your existing colour palette and furniture. In addition, consider the material and finish of any additional features, such as your port hole covers.
On a similar note, consider how you can enhance the function and organisation of your desk through storage solutions, shelves or a cable management system. After all, a cluttered and chaotic desk will hinder your work environment, rather than help it.
Need additional help with the aesthetics of your standing desk? Read our full guide on How to Make Your Standing Desk Look Better.
RGB lighting to enhance your sessions.
Got a gaming setup ? Consider adding
Investing in a quality standing desk is a worthwhile long-term investment in your health, but it’s important that you set a budget and research standing desks within your price range.
On a similar note, while it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest option available, it's essential to balance cost with quality and features.
If you need additional equipment or accessories, such as monitor arms, cable management systems or an anti-fatigue standing desk mat, make sure you include these within your budget.
To narrow down your options and make an informed decision, you should ask yourself:
Will it be just you using the desk, or will other people benefit, such as your colleagues, partner or
children?
Will your standing desk be in one place, or do you need one that you can move around an office on wheels, for example?
If you're requesting a standing desk at work, find out your company's existing policies regarding workspace accommodations and wellness initiatives first, as you could be eligible for a desk as a reasonable adjustment.
standing desk you choose, we hope this article has helped you come to the right decision for your specific space and needs. Need additional help choosing a standing desk?
Get in contact with our expert team
with any queries.
Regardless of whatstanding desk you choose, we hope this article has helped you come to the right decision for your specific space and needs. Need additional help choosing a standing desk?
Looking for a standing desk for your home, office or
workspace? Check out our full collection of
standing desks
, available for
next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm
. Our desks come with a 7 year warranty, 30 day risk free return, as well as access to a UK-based customer service team to answer any questions that you might have. Otherwise, our
blog
provides more useful tips on using a standing desk for a more balanced lifestyle. Feel free to contact us with any questions, with the handy live chat feature on our site, or via email at
info@ergodesks.co.uk
.
If you want to take a stand against the sitting disease, investing in an electric height-adjustable desk is a great step in the right direction!
Canadians spend a lot of time sitting down—up to three-quarters of our day! With all this sitting comes the sitting disease, which can include an increased risk of diabetes, heart problems, and obesity. It’s no wonder offices are making the switch to standing desks!
And the many health benefits of sit-stand desks are nothing to sneeze at, either. Did you know that using a standing desk…
Reduces your risk of obesity
Alleviates
back pain
from sitting
Lowers your risk of heart disease
Boosts energy levels and productivity
But there’s such a wide array of standing desks in every shape and size--it’s hard to decide which one is for you! If you’re lost in a sea of standing desks and don’t know what to look out for when you’re choosing, we hear you.
Today, we’re going to narrow down the top 6 things to look out for when you’re buying an adjustable standing desk. Once you know what you need, you can go forth and build the home office of your dreams!
Top 6 Things To Look Out For When You're Buying an Standing Desk
The first thing to consider is your office space. How much room do you have for a standing desk? Where do you plan to stand, and do you have room for an ergonomic chair as well? (Remember, you should only be standing for about 30 minutes every hour!)
Once you’ve sized up your space, think about your work surface. How big of a tabletop will you need? If you like everything to be within arm’s reach, pick a compact desk that will hold your keyboard and stationery close by. Maybe you decorate your desk with plants, or you like to spread our papers out in front of you. Find a wide tabletop, or maybe check out a corner desk setup for even more room!
The adjustment range of the desk is one of the biggest factors when it comes to picking a desk. Without the adjustments, your sit-stand desk would be pretty useless!
Check out the desk specifications--how much height range does it have? This is especially important to consider if you’re taller or shorter than average. Make sure you can work comfortably in front of the desk with good posture. Whether you’re sitting or standing, there should be no hunching or straining!
This can sometimes be hard to determine if you’re ordering a desk online, but you can further customize your desk setup with a monitor arm. This way, your monitor can be adjusted freely to accommodate your posture needs.
What’s the weight capacity of the desk? Having a durable desk is important. It should be able to hold your keyboard and monitor(s) without a hitch, as well as any accessories and snacks you might load up on it.
Consider the material. If the tabletop is made of flimsy wood, you definitely shouldn’t put thousands of dollars of electronics on it! Look for firm, sturdy wood tabletops or equivalent composites. (Our TerraDesk is made of compressed recycled chopsticks, which results in a tabletop stronger than oak!)
Look for wide feet so your desk doesn’t wobble when you adjust it up and down. Strong columns mean they can hold up your setup without shaking! Which brings us to our next point...
How many electric motors are doing the heavy lifting on your adjustable desk? Look for desks with dual motors so that your desk can be moved from sitting to standing position without any trouble.
If you work for 8 hours a day and switch positions every half hour, that’s at least 15 adjustments from sitting to standing every day! That adds up to at least 300 adjustments every month--and that’s if you’re the only one using the desk. If you have coworkers or family members who share the desk, you’ll need a durable motor to keep up!
Pay attention to motor noise as well. If it’s pretty loud and noticeable now, just think how annoying it’ll be in the long term! A quiet, efficient motor will help you adjust the height daily without a headache.
If you’re using this desk at home, make sure it’s relatively easy to set up and use. There’s nothing worse than excitedly receiving a new piece of furniture and then having to spend three hours reading instructions just to figure out how to put it together!
Check to see that the desk is easy to operate and adjust. Bonus points if there are presets on the keypad so the desk lifts and lowers to the exact right height for you every time!
If you need your standing desk right away, make sure to check when it will arrive if it’s being shipped to you! Also read the company’s shipping policies. Are there additional hidden fees you need to know about?
The last thing to look out for before you hand over your credit card or hit “buy now” is to check the warranty. A stand-up company (see what we did there?) will back their product with a good warranty that will cover any defects for a few years. Most standing desks come with at least a 6-7 year warranty. That’s how you know the company is proud of their product!
At EFFYDESK — we design, mould, and deliver the best Electric Standing Desks for professional or personal use.
Still have questions about finding the right ergonomic standing desk for you? EFFYDESK has answered customers and Redditors on the most frequently asked questions about standing desks.
Our award-winning ergonomic office chairs ensure that office workers are protected against desk job damage, and are well-equipped to maximize efficiency and morale in the workplace — wherever that may be for you.
Browse our signature Standing Desks, Office Chairs, and Monitor Mounts designed to boost workplace productivity, so you can get more done, more comfortably.
To learn more about EFFYDESK’s products and services, be sure to check out our FAQ page or browse the blog archive for other helpful articles on ergonomics in the workplace.