Best Standing Desks

Feb. 04, 2024

A standing desk won’t magically fix poor posture or help you lose weight, but it can offer health benefits.

“The primary ergonomic benefit of a standing desk (also called a sit-stand desk) is the ability to move throughout the day,” says Dana Keester, an ergonomics expert in CR’s Consumer Experience & Usability Research group, who led our evaluation. “Incorporating regular movement and postural changes throughout the day increases blood circulation and allows you to activate different muscle groups.”

You can even use a standing desk with some treadmills and exercise bikes.

While you’re sitting, a height-adjustable standing desk can also provide a more ergonomic and comfortable work surface than many fixed-height desks, which are too high for shorter users. Just like with a great office chair, adjustability is critical.

Other than the Ikea Bekant, all the desks we evaluated included a collision-avoidance feature, which is supposed to make the desktop retract if it collides with something. Our interest in this feature was sparked when a desk with collision avoidance pressed down on one participant’s lap hard enough to be painful and make the desk tilt back on its rear legs. He had to scramble to find the right button to raise the desk back up and relieve the pressure.

We didn’t score the desks on this feature, but we did spend time in the lab investigating how it works. The desks exerted anywhere from about 40 pounds to 80 pounds of force before retracting, depending on the model and the procedure we used in each of the trials we ran. Several desks have controls that are supposed to let you adjust the sensitivity. We tested the desks using the maximum sensitivity available.

One other note on safety: We declined to evaluate certain models we bought because they used an exposed driveshaft to raise and lower the desktop. If you’re shopping online, desks that use a driveshaft will usually say they have a single motor. But it’s often not clear whether the driveshaft is covered to prevent shoelaces, a child’s fingers, fabric from a skirt, or anything else from getting caught as it rotates. Desks with two motors, one on each side of the desk, don’t need a driveshaft.

Ashita Kapoor, CR’s associate director for product safety says: “After installation and assembly of your standing desk, if you notice any exposed components, make sure no obstacles are in the desk’s path.” As with all electric height-adjustable desks, you want to make sure children and pets are away from it during operation.

The best standing desks will transform any workspace - creating comfortable, productive environments, whether you're in the office or WFH.

Our sedentary lifestyles have serious implications for our work and our health. In some cases, sitting down for extended periods of time has been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and increased levels of anxiety and depression. And that's where height-adjustable sit-stand desks and the best office chairs come in. These home and office furniture units are built for improving workflows and relieving the aches and pains of sitting at your desk for too long.

Not sure which one to bring into your workspace? We've gone hands-on with all the best standing desks - assembling and testing each model, comparing build quality and materials, ease of construction, and the different adjustability options. We've also evaluated anti-collision detection features and overall performance - in our opinion, the faster and quieter the motor, the better. Our round-up includes a range of premium, mid-range, and budget standing desks for every office and home office.

The quick list

Best standing desk overall

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FlexiSpot E7 Standing Desk

(Image credit: Future)

FlexiSpot E8 Standing Desk

(Image credit: Future)

FlexiSpot E8 Standing Desk

(Image credit: Future)

1. Flexispot E7

Our top pick for overall build quality and functionality

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

22.8 - 48.4in / 58 - 123cm

Desktop size:

47.2 x 23.6 - 82.6 x 31.4in / 120 x 60 - 210 x 80cm

Lifting weight:

355lb / 161kg

Storage space:

Available separately

Warranty:

15 years

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Reasons to buy

Build quality

Overall functionality of desk

Motorized legs

Integrated wireless charger

Reasons to avoid

Can't move the integrated wireless charger

Storage parts are an extra cost

Buy it if

✅ You want a desk with high build quality: Flexispot is a high-quality company with well-built desks and quality materials. The E7 is the prime offering in its lineup, showcasing the best quality for the money that Flexispot provides.

✅ You use a wireless charger: The Flexispot E7 has an integrated wireless Qi charger on the left side of the desktop. If you're going to put a wireless charger on your desk anyways, you may as well have it built-in automatically.

✅ You have a heavy desk setup: Lifting weight becomes quite important if your setup is more than just a laptop on a desk. The Flexispot E7 has a lifting capacity of 355lb / 161kg, meaning it can handle even large desk setups with multiple monitors, multiple desktops, or whatever else you throw at it. Without a high lifting capacity, you risk the desk being unable to stand or getting damaged trying to do so.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're looking for a cheap desk: The Flexispot E7 is a lot of things, but cheap is not one of them. This is a premium option with a premium price-tag.

❌ You want a desk with built-in storage: Flexispot offers storage accessories. However, nothing is built into the desks. Every storage accessory is an additional piece placed on or under the desk as desired.

❌ You need included cable management: Flexispot does not have integrated cable management. For light cable management needs, they sell a small solution. However, this cable tray is not quite enough for those who need a lot of power or have a lot of cables.

The bottom line

↕️ The E7 Pro Plus is Flexispot's premier standing desk in an impressive overall product for the money. It's not quite as luxurious as the E7Q Odin nor is it as cheap as some of the other models on the site. Regardless, we love having this desk in our office and we have a hard time not wanting to work from it. ★★★★★

What you need to know

The Flexispot E7 is a quality height-adjustable standing desk and one that comes with a competitive price tag for this impressive curved workspace. The surface is bamboo, with a total desk size of 140x71cm (55x28in) and an integrated wireless charger on the left-hand side. Overall, it exceeds what we'd expect in this range.

Design and Build Quality: The E7 Pro Plus is made frequently with a bamboo top and a set of T - legs. During assembly, we could see the build quality's impressive with the leg assembly and joints. The frame that bolts to the underside of the bamboo desktop is sturdy, the legs rigid, and everything fits together quite nicely.

Performance: We had no issues during our time with the Flexispot E7 Pro Plus. The desk continues to rise and fall without issue, the wireless charger still charges Qi devices, and the desk has had no issues with the ever-changing desk setups we throw on it. We've even ridden it up and down a few times.

Features: During our time with this desk, we have been able to test it as a true workstation with many different arrangements. The E7 Pro Plus is large enough to hold quite a bit, while still being able to fit in most areas without feeling so large that it's unusable. Even at a max height, this desk is relatively stable, granting us confidence our monitors and computers will stay put while we fiddle with cable management below.

Further, the cable passthrough holes in the back corners also proved quite beneficial. We liked running cables through those areas and not having them dangle off the back of our desks. Granted, most of our setups with this desk have been pushed up against a wall, so cables running off the back wouldn't matter as much as if the desk was in the middle of the room. Lastly, the premium keypad is simple yet one of our favorites. It has four clear presets, one for sitting, one for standing, and two others. This allows us to know with absolute certainty what the sitting and standing height presets are without taking up any extra space in our brain to remember which preset is which.

Value for money: The Flexispot E7 Pro Plus is a higher-end product - but that being said, thankfully, it's not so expensive that it is out of reach, and is a quality desk for the money.

Read our full Flexispot E7 review

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Flexispot E7 Pro Plus Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPricePlaced in the middle of the pack price wise, a great value★★★★★DesignThe curved desk is a great option★★★★★PerformanceThe E7 dual motor desk offers great, consistent performance.★★★★★FeatureThe wireless charging pad works great, as does the premium keypad★★★★★

Best standing desk for accessories

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(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if

✅ You want a truly customizable desk: The Uplift V2 has some of the most available desktop styles we have seen while looking into desks. There are (currently) up to over 7,776,000 combination options, allowing your desk to be truly customized for you.

✅ You want a range of accessories: Uplift has over 400 desk accessories, adding up to an absurdly large number of combinations, then multiplied by the number of desk options for an even larger number of unique possibilities. Uplift has the gear, all in one place, to set up a truly unique and customized workstation.

✅ You want a trusted company: There are a lot of standing desk companies available, some are brand new and still figuring things out. If you want a firm with over 20 years of experience making desks, you might want to check out Uplift.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a pre-determined great desk: What we mean by this is that without knowing what you want, this desk can be overwhelming with options. If you want a desk with some awesome productivity accessories, or some that are great for an art studio, or a video editing suite, you'll have to do additional reasearch to figure out what those accessories would be, and then what colors and styles to match to your desk.

❌ You need high stability at taller heights: Our testing (and further research to confirm we weren't alone) shows that depending on the desk, there is a noticeable wobble at the peak heights or even tall individuals' standing height. If you are a shorter person, or don't plan on loading down this desk and using at max height, this won't bother you at all.

s❌ You want a quick and easy to build desk: The Uplift V2 is a great desk in a lot of areas, however, one thing to note is that when it comes to assembly time, this desk will take quite a bit of time, especially if you want to cable manage it properly, and if you end up choosing a lot of accessories.

The bottom line

↕️ The Uplift V2 is Uplift's central customizable option. The desk is truly made to your exact needs with an abundance of accessories and features that grant the best workstation for you and your needs. The V2 comes from a great company with over 20 years of experience making desks, backing their claim to have a great desk even further. ★★★★½

What you need to know

The dual motors mean the desk can change heights quickly, with a smooth and quiet action, and anti-collision tech is also in the mix (meaning if the desk is lowering and hits something – like your seat or, heaven forbid, your head – it stops).

The Uplift V2 also benefits from many mounting points for accessories like surge protectors and a keyboard tray. You can even hook up an under-desk hammock. Yes, you read that right – it comes in the box and attaches underneath when the rising desk is fully raised, although it's not compatible with V2-Commercial or 4-leg models. If there’s any testament you need to the stability of this unit, it’s being able to sleep in a hammock under it! While we may not have slept an entire night in this under-desk hammock, we have tried it out a few times without any issues.

Design and Build Quality: The overall quality of this desk is pretty good, but admittedly not the absolute best in every way. There are a few areas that are visible that are cheaper pieces, which we do not fault Uplift for in the slightest. However, the average user probably wouldn't notice these areas if this is their first standing desk, or if they don't review such products for a living. What's important to note is that this desk is built well, and shouldn't have any issues for you.

Performance: The V2 has a smooth and quiet motor that helps with easy and quick height adjustments. Additionally, thanks to it's vast selection of accessories, this desk can be truly flexible in how it operates by way of mounting grids and more. The desktop we chose was plenty large for multiple monitors or even ultrawide displays, so we are confident you can fit a majority of the desk setups that a user of this desk would need. Lastly, we were pleased to see that the anti-collision sensors worked, keeping any potential accidents regarding the lowering of the desk at bay.

Features: Continuing on with how beneficial the customization is on this desk, the features that can be added at point of purchase make this desk an impressive desk. This includes a wireless foot switch and a Bluetooth adapter to get reminders to sit and stand direct to your phone. While with other companies, you may have to choose between different desks entirely to change the amount of features that you can change with this desk, Uplift allows it all to be run through the ordering experience from the beginning.

Value for money: Perhaps, with the option to choose individual add-ons, we felt like we were in control of the cost. We felt we had a hand in the creation, so we feel it's of higher value. Outside of this, the desk is a higher cost on paper than other similar competitors. Nevertheless, we feel that the Uplift V2 has a great value for money.

Read our full UPLIFT V2 review

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UPLIFT V2 Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThe overall cost is a little expensive, however it's customizable features, plethora of accessories and over 20 years of experience may just make this worth the investment.★★★★☆DesignThe V2 is a well designed desk for most individuals, with a minimalist yet functional design that gives room to make it what it needs to be for any given workspace.★★★★☆PerformanceThis desk is well-built, has a sturdy frame, and an easy to use controller.★★★★★FeatureThe Uplift V2 has the most available first-party accessories we have seen, allowing it to be incredibly high functioning for whatever use case you throw at it.★★★★★

Cheapest standing desk

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(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

3. Flexispot E5 Pro

A quality budget choice

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

24.4 - 50in / 62 - 127cm

Desktop size:

42 - 60in x 24 - 30in / 106.68 - 152.4cm x 60.96 - 76.2cm

Lifting weight:

287lb / 130.18kg

Storage space:

Available separately

Warranty:

5 years

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Reasons to buy

Great quality for the price

Impressive 287lb / 130kg lifting capacity

Multiple color options

Height memory presets

Five-year warranty

Reasons to avoid

No special features, just a quality desk

Basic keypad

Buy it if

✅ You want a budget desk from a good company: Flexispot is a company that has some very highly-rated desks. This is their more budget-friendly model giving great value for the money.

✅ You want a simple, no-frills desk: The Flexispot E5 is simple - there is a desktop on top of some motorized legs with a simple controller - that's it.

✅ You want three programmable heights: Flexispot includes its advanced keypad with this desk, which has three programmable height presets and a sit-stand reminder button to help keep you mobile throughout your day.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need professional cable management: Flexispot has minor cable management solutions you can add, but it's not that large, so you may need two or two to get a third-party option.

❌ You want to customize with first-party accessories: Unlike other desks, this desk is bare-bones. For some, this is great; for others, that means even more research to get third-party accessories.

❌ You want a small desk: The E5 is a decent size, ranging from relatively large. Check out Herman Miller's Jarvis or the Humanscale Float Mini if you need a little desk.

The bottom line

↕️ The Flexispot E5 Pro is affordable and made of high-quality materials. It has a minimalist design and an advanced keypad with presets. It's spacious enough for working and performs well in any workspace. ★★★★½

What you need to know

Flexispot's budget E5 Pro is a motorized standing desk with a sturdy frame, impressive lifting capacity, and intuitive controls. The workspace allows ample room for monitors, computers, printers, or whatever else you need to complete work throughout the day.

Design and Build Quality: The E5 has a minimal and simple design. There aren't a load of extra touches or added elements. It's just a straightforward desktop on a set of quality legs. Thanks to its durability, we have no concerns about this desk breaking anytime soon, even with its lower price.

Performance: Though the desk is a budget desk, the legs raise and lower the desktop quickly and relatively quietly; the desk is pretty sturdy, has a large workspace for the money, and has a great height range. This is a great option if you need a quality workspace but have a tight budget or want to spend your budget on other things.

Features: Flexispot includes a quality multi-height memory control panel to grant quick height selection for up to three heights. This control panel also features an automatic timer reminding you to stand and sit, keeping you mobile throughout the day. Outside of that, there are no further features built into this desk. However, Flexispot has a wide range of accessories to buy separately like drawers, cable management, power supplies, and monitor mounts, all designed to compliment this desk beautifully, also furthering the abilities and features of this desk.

Value for money: Flexispot's budget E5 Pro is a great desk for value for money. Despite the lower price tag, it is still pretty high quality and has great-quality materials. Outside of just the quality of the desk, Flexispot backs its desks with a five-year warranty on the frame of the desk, and a two-year warranty on the electronics, extending the lifespan even further - something that isn't usually said about budget desks.

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Flexispot E5 Pro Plus Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThis desk is a great deal for the price.★★★★★DesignThe E5 Pro is minimal and yet modern, and it's a high-functioning sit/stand desk. it's great.★★★★★Performanceit's great for mid to heavy desk setups, is quiet enough that it's not going to disturb those working around you.★★★★☆FeatureThe multiple presets for this desk prove quite useful, and the automatic timer really boosts productivity.★★★★☆

Best premium standing desk

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

4. Beflo Tenon Premium

Rated best-in-class by our reviewer

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

29 - 47in / 73.7 - 119.4cm

Desktop size:

59 x 31.5 in / 150 x 80cm

Lifting weight:

225lb / 102kg

Storage space:

Yes

Warranty:

15 years

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Reasons to buy

Premium build

Fantastic accessories

Wide range of smart features

Gorgeous workspace

Reasons to avoid

Expensive compared to some of the competition

Only one size

Buy it if

✅ You want a full workstation: The Beflo Tenon Premium offers a serious amount of luxury - from the materials used in construction to the integrated technology and built-in storage space.

✅ You want plenty of accessories: Alongside the desk itself, you can pick up plenty of extras to make your workspace more comfortable. The Flow Kit is ideal for managing cables, but the line-up also includes a diffuser bar for the lightbar, a desk mat, a pegboard, and hanging pouch.

Don't buy it if

❌ You want a budget sit-stand desk: This particular desk is aimed at the executive market, and that means it’s going to set you back over $2000 for the base model alone.

❌ You want a basic desk: There’s a lot going on here when it comes to integrated technology and built-in accessories, but that’s not always going to be ideal for those who just want a simple motorized desk with the option to sit or stand during work hours.

The bottom line

↕️ The Beflo Tenon Premium offers a lot to like, particularly if you’re looking to organize and optimize your working space with a sit-stand desk that does it all. If it’s within budget, this one could be a game-changer for productivity. In our review we likened it to the fully loaded Mercedes of motorized desks. ★★★★★

What you need to know

The Beflo Tenon Premium is - as the name suggests - a premium sit-stand desk for modern executives looking to enhance their workspace. Four motorized legs allow for a height range of between 29 and 47in (73.7 - 119.4cm), with a 59 x 31.5in desktop.

After going hands-on with this premium option, we felt it was unlike any we’d tested before - so much so, our expert reviewer even said “it's an entire workstation that is changing the way I view what a desk could be.” High praise, indeed.

Design & build quality: The design is outstanding, with a sleek desktop built from solid oak or walnut (your choice), alongside the sturdy metal legs. The downside here is that it’s only available in one size, although you can choose a range of finishes to fit the aesthetics of your home office.

Performance: We found performance to be excellent with this desk - so much so, we actually looked forward to using it, even after our review. The Beflo Tenon makes you feel like you are experiencing an entire workspace, not just a desk. Because of the slit in the desk, this desktop could be incredibly minimal, utilizing the space to be open and accessible.

Features: Thanks to its organizational prowess, the Beflo Tenon is billed by the manufacturer as the “Marie Kondo of desks''. But it’s the technology intuitively woven through the piece that really elevates this workstation. Control is via the OLED touchscreen, which we found simple to use and incredibly powerful. With just a few taps, we were able to adjust the desk on the fly. You’ll find four built-in standard outlets on the back underside of the desk, and at the front is a USB-A and a USB-C charging port, as well as a headphone jack.

Value for money: That all-over premium feel comes at a cost that exceeds many competitors on the market. This definitely isn’t one for those looking for a budget standing desk. But will offer good value to those looking for a best-in-class desk for an executive office.

Read our full Beflo Tenon Premium review

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Beflo Tenon Premium Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceA premium product that commands a premium price-tag, expensive compared to some.★★★★☆DesignSleek, modern design constructed with top materials for a wobust workspace.★★★★★PerformanceThe performance excels here, with whisper-quiet motors. ★★★★★FeaturesPacked with integrated technology, including an OLED touch screen that makes adjustments easy. ★★★★★

Best minimalist standing desk

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(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Buy it if

✅ You like the minimalist design: There’s no fat to trim here - the Branch Duo is a sleek sit-stand desk with two differently sized models and a range of colors that will fit all home office aesthetics.

✅ You’re balancing budget and features: For the price, it’s hard to find fault with the features and performance. It works well and looks great doing it. - and won't break the bank either.

Don't buy it if

❌ You prize cable management: While the cable management solution is well-made and functional, it’s not quite as good as other options like the Ergonofis Shift.

❌ You want something quick to build: While it may look great once it’s set up - especially with the desk drawer in place - we did find it took a while to get this one fully assembled.

The bottom line

↕️ The Branch Duo offers a good balance between features and budget. After extensive testing - months, in fact, of day--to-day use - we found this to be high quality, beautiful, and easy to use. We liked the built-in storage, although its cable management solution doesn’t quite match some of its rivals. But with a good height range and selection of colors, this minimalist, motorized desk is ideal for any home office.

What you need to know

When it comes to motorized standing desks, there isn’t much more you could ask for in the Branch Duo. This is a well-built desk with a minimalist design, making it a good fit for pretty much any home office. Specs wise, it has a lifting weight of 275lbs and an adjustable height range of 28 to 47.8in, and comes in two sizes: a compact 36 x 24in model and a 48 x 24in version for more spacious work environments.

Design and build quality: We really liked the design and build quality of the Branch Duo, with some clever design engineering going on here that we just don’t see from similar desks. The desktop, with its rounded, flat edges, is made from laminated MDF, with your choice of woodgrain, walnut, white, or charcoal colorings. The metal legs, meanwhile, offer options in white and charcoal. Overall, we felt that One of the first things we noticed during assembly was the lack of crossbar found in most other sit-stand desks. Instead, the legs are mounted onto either end, leaving space for the optional desk drawer. It’s a clever bit of design, in keeping with that sleek, minimalist design.

Performance: There’s no denying it - during our tests, we really loved using the Branch Duo. In use, performance was excellent across the board. It’s quiet, works effectively, and looks great doing it. Controlling the Duo is also a nice experience. We’re used to seeing the familiar arrow-control panels. But like the Herman Miller (Fully) Jarvis, Branch has opted for a control paddle with a digital display. This OLED screen lets you precisely see your selected height (and even includes a little welcome message), while enabling two height presets - although we would've liked a few more here.

Features: Beyond the base model, a monitor arm, desk drawer, and cable organizer are available separately if you need additional storage and functionality. We tested a model featuring the latter two and found both were well-crafted and built to last. The drawer itself has a felt liner pre-installed to prevent scratching. Although it’s fair to say the cable management solution can handle some cables and a few power bricks, it isn’t quite as good as that found in the Ergonofis Shift.

Value for money: The Branch Duo isn’t the cheapest on the market - not by a long shot. It retails for $649. But for a well-designed, high-performance bit of kit with a 10-year warranty, we found it to be an absolute steal.

Read our full Branch Duo review

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AttributesNotesRatingPriceIt's not the cheapest sit-stand desk, but offers near-perfect balance of features, performance, and budget★★★★★DesignA beautiful minimalist design, well-constructed★★★★★PerformanceSuperb performance - quiet and easy to use★★★★★FeaturesPlenty of choice in colors, a smart OLED control paddle, and ★★★★★

Best standing desk for cable management

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(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

6. Ergonofis Shift

Great if you run a lot of cables

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

24.5 - 50.2in / 62.23 - 127.51cm

Desktop size:

24 -30 x 48 - 72in / 61 - 76 x 122 - 183cm

Lifting weight:

300lb / 136.08kg

Storage space:

Yes

Warranty:

5 years

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Reasons to buy

Desk material is smooth and durable

Sturdy frame

Incredible cable management

Four height presets

Reasons to avoid

Doesn't rise as high as others we have used

Expensive compared to some of the competition

Buy it if

✅ You want the best cable management: Ergonofis has a cable management solution with a privacy screen panel that has holes for mounting power bricks and cables. It also includes a nine-port power strip with ample spacing between ports.

✅ You're looking for a soft desktop: The Shift has a smooth desktop that feels soft to the touch resisting fingerprints. The surface is also scratch resistant and can remove minimal scratches with a magic eraser.

✅ You want an aesthetically pleasing desk: The Shift is more than just a functional desk - it feels like a work of aesthetic art. Regardless of whether the desk will be used as a multi-monitor workstation, a laptop parking place, or a drawing studio, this desk is beautiful.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You are above 6ft and plan to stand for the majority of the time: The Shift has a wide height range, though the top end maxes out just before I would like. I'm 6ft 1in / 185.42cm tall and wish that the desk would lift just another inch or two for an ideal 90-degree resting angle.
❌ You want the best built-in storage drawers: The accessory drawer from Ergonofis is good but not the best. It's a simple metal drawer with one removable sliding tray that can hold smaller items above the main portion of the drawer. Nothing fancy. But could easily be spruced up with some organizers or a felt liner.

❌ You need the most stable desk available: If you are new to all of this, this slight qualm wouldn't even be noticed. But, having reviewed so many models, I noticed that while at max height, the desk is a bit more wobbly than some competitors.

The bottom line

↕️ The Ergonofis Shift is an incredible desk for nearly anyone. Ergonofis has included our favorite cable management system we have seen so far on this desk, along with an incredibly smooth and soft tabletop and a great control panel. ★★★★½

What you need to know

The Ergonofis Shift is made from quality materials - a top of solid wood or bamboo and a steel frame. The desktop is soft to the touch yet rigid enough to clamp down a heavy-duty monitor arm and hold up a 49" monitor. We chose a matte black finish for our Shift desk, which is gorgeous. Going into it, we assumed this desk would be a fingerprint magnet and would never look clean, but thanks to the finish on the desktop, we have not experienced that at all.

Design and Build Quality: The Shift is beautiful and high-quality. It's incredibly aesthetic and feels like a wonderful hybrid between a piece of art and a working desk. Because of its simple yet elegant design, this desk can fit into almost any workstation and elevate it. The build quality is also great, with fairly sturdy legs, a durable, scratch-resistant tabletop, and a high lifting capacity.

Performance: This desk has been one of our team members' personal workstations for over four months. He has zero plans to change that anytime soon because he loves this desk that much. While it may not be the fastest to rise, the highest, or the quietest, this desk is the sweet spot in the middle where everything works well and has no problems. Sometimes, everything working well together is better than one flashy feature or being the absolute best in something.

Features: The two standout features of this desk have to be cable management - the best we have seen to date - and the surprisingly soft tabletop. The cable management solution with this desk is similar to what we have seen and loved from other companies. Even bolting those onto different companies' desks because they work that well. But, once we saw the Ergonofis solution, all others we know of seem lacking. The privacy screen style with a power bar integrated into the top with a bump out to help best catch cables is truly brilliant. We even turned this around so that the clean side faces the user since this desk is currently back against a wall.

Value for money: The Ergonofis Shift feels worth the money. The price shoots up quickly once you get past the cheap Amazon brands and get into more name-brand desks. You get a more reliable brand, usually a higher quality product, and a more focused design look. As mentioned in the above sections, the Ergonofis Shift is a beautifully minimalist desk. With the added features also mentioned, this desk is great value for the money.

Read our full Ergonofis Shift review

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Ergonofis Shift Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThe desk is well priced for its size and features but more expensive than rivals★★★★DesignThe design is elegant and elevating★★★★★PerformanceThe stability is pretty good until the max height, and the height range is great for most people★★★★☆FeatureThe cable management is the best around, and the soft desktop is lovely★★★★★

Best standing desk for quick assembly

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(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if

✅ You want an easy-to-set-up desk: We were able to set this desk up in a matter of minutes thanks to the included tools and the simple instructions. If you're putting several of these together or need something super easy to build, check this out.

✅ You want a durable desktop: The desktop on these desks is quite durable. While we didn't test it to the extreme to test what breaks it, dropping gear on it, dragging it around, and beating it up in our shop didn't cause damage.

✅ You want four height presets: The control panel for this desk has four preset height options to allow for ease of use and exact, dialed-in heights quick and easy.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You have a lot of cables: There isn't great cable management with this desk. It's pretty minimal and not very large. If you have much more than a single monitor and laptop on your desk, this will get filled up quickly.

❌ You are looking for a cheap desk: Though this desk can be built quickly, it is in no way a cheap desk. If you working to a budget, you'll find better value for money elsewhere.

❌ You want a lot of customizable options: There are a few tabletop options and a few color options for the legs. Outside of that, there are not a ton of customizable options.

The bottom line

↕️ The Vari Electric is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality desk that is quick and easy to set up and get working on. The build quality is good, the desktop is solid, and the lifting capacity is good. This desk also has a sturdy base and a minimalist cable management tray to help keep cables at bay. ★★★★½

What you need to know

The Vari Electric is available in three widths (48in, 60in, and 72in) to suit the needs of your home office and can be set up in minutes using the two included Allen wrenches. The desk features two t-style legs, each containing a motor that allows it to be raised to a maximum height of 50.5in (128cm) or lowered to 25in (63.5cm).

Design and Build Quality: This desk boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring a powder-coated steel frame and a durable laminate desktop, making it suitable for various office styles. While its cable management may not be ideal for more complex setups, it is still adequate for basic workstations. We were able to keep things neat and tidy with a laptop setup, and a laptop with a monitor setup. Beyond that, it depends on how much you personally care to hide cables. If you are bothered, you'll want to pick up some of the cable management trays or organizers from the Vari accessory page.

Performance: The desk has a smooth and reliable height adjustment feature that offers a decent range. The motors operate quietly and seamlessly during height adjustments, making them suitable for use in office or co-working spaces. We have loaded this desk down with multiple monitors, computers, and even boxes of other gear and we have not noticed any issues with this desk's ability to raise and lower, nor with any significant wobble. All in all, this desk is solid and performs very well as a quick setup desk.

Features: There are no crazy features that come with this desk, though some can be purchased in addition to the desk. One feature that does exist is the four-height preset controller. Having four height options is quite helpful, allowing maximum control at the touch of a button. While the desk is bare in features, Vari offers various accessories ranging from cable trays to file cabinets, hanging shelves, drawers, and more. All meant to kit out your setup for however you need to operate it. We have tried the file cabinet, hanging shelf, on-desk power strip, and more. All have met and exceeded our expectations in build quality and functionality. Vari clearly cares about more than just their desks. They care about the entire workspace as a whole.

Value for money: This desk option is competitively priced for this build quality. The customization options help expand what this desk can do for you, and the 5-year warranty helps ensure the longevity of the desk. All around, the value of this desk is pretty good.

Read our full Vari Electric review

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Vari Electric Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThe desk is adequately priced compared to competition.★★★★☆DesignThe design is sleek and modern, easy to assemble, and sturdy.★★★★★PerformanceThe motors are smooth and quiet, and the overall desk is fairly stable and wobble free.★★★★★FeatureThe control panel with four height presets is easy to use and beneficial for quick height changes.★★★★☆

Best standing desk for taller types

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(Image credit: Future)

8. Branch Standing Desk

If you're over 6ft, this could be the desk for you

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

25 - 52in / 64 - 132cm

Desktop size:

48 x 30in / 122 x 76.2cm

Lifting weight:

275lb / 124kg

Storage space:

Warranty:

3 years

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Reasons to buy

Tallest extension level

Stain and impact-resistant desk surface

Easy to assemble

Reasons to avoid

4-6 day delivery

Complicated assembly

Only one leg color

tools required

Buy it if

✅ You are purchasing for a tall individual: This desk can reach a maximum height of 52 inches, making it great for individuals above 6 feet tall.

✅ You want a spacious work surface: The Branch Standing Desk offers many width options maxing at 60 inches wide.

✅ You want a good value desk: Compared to the competition, this desk is a good value for the build quality.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want black desk legs: The Branch Standing Desk only has a white leg option, so if you want another color, you're out of luck unless you paint them yourself.

❌ You need cable management included: There is no cable management outside a few zip ties. You'll need more cable management if you have more than a laptop's worth of electronics.

❌ You need an easy assembly: This desk was a bit cumbersome, and we needed to pull out our own tools to build it. This isn't a dealbreaker but is worth noting, and something we wish we knew ahead of time.

The bottom line

↕️ The Branch Standing Desk is an excellent choice for anyone over 6 foot tall as most desks top out just below where taller individuals would like them to. This desk offers a generous work surface, a decent weight capacity and an overall good value for the money. ★★★★½

What you need to know

The Branch Standing Desk is a motorized desk that can be adjusted to standing. It has T-style legs can lift up to 275lb / 125kg. However, it does not offer any cable management. The legs are only available in white, but the desktop is available in various finishes. Additionally, this desk is perfect for tall individuals. Specifically, our team that tested this desk range from mid 5 feet tall to low 6 feet tall and they were able to make sure the desk was set to just the right height for them.

Design and Build Quality: The design of this desk is simple and comparable to others in its class. It's made with durable and sturdy materials, offers a good size workspace, and has a durable tabletop.

Performance: The lifting columns allow for up to 275lb / 125kg meaning you can fit a couple of monitors and more on this desktop and not have to worry even at its peak height thanks to the leg's stability. This desk is also strong enough, safe enough, and stable enough that we had some of our team try riding this desk up and down and they were able to without a problem.

Features: This desk may not have any standout or distinctive features, but it is a sturdy and uncomplicated piece of furniture that can easily accommodate additional accessories. You can rest assured that the desk provides a solid foundation for your work or study needs.

Value for money: The pricing of this desk is quite reasonable for its quality and features, making it a worthwhile investment, especially for those just getting into sit-stand furniture or those who do not want to spend top dollar for a desk they only use on occasion.

Read our full Branch Standing Desk review

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Branch Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThe Branch Standing Desk is on the mid to high end of price compared to similar desks.★★★★☆DesignThe design is minimal and clean with plenty of room to work.★★★★☆PerformanceOverall, this desk functions quite well, all in a quiet and smooth fashion.★★★★★FeatureThere are not a lot of standout features of this desk, it's a basic desk that is well-built.★★★☆☆

Best standing desk for purists

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(Image credit: Future)

(Image credit: Apple)

9. Ergonofis Sway

Pure and simple

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

22 - 48.3 in / 55.88 - 122.682 cm

Desktop size:

24 - 30 x 48 - 72in / 61 - 76 x 122 - 183 cm

Lifting weight:

360lb / 163.3kg

Storage space:

Available separately

Warranty:

10 years

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Reasons to buy

Easy to assemble

Touch OLED display

Low power consumption

360lbs lifting capacity

Reasons to avoid

High cost

Controller takes up desk space

Buy it if

✅ You want a work of art as a desk: The Ergonofis Sway is a beautiful slab of solid wood with a control panel drilled and some legs thrown on the bottom. It's a natural, beautiful piece of solid maple, cherrywood, or walnut.

✅ You want a solid desk: Naturally, real wood has knots. Occasionally, the Sway can have some of these knots. Sometimes Ergonifis will fill these in a bit to help with the uniformity of the desktop. However, it will never be seamless and perfect by design.

✅ You love touch screens: The only control panel is on the bottom right of the desktop. If you're a fan of touchscreens or technology in general, you'll appreciate the touchscreen in lieu of physical buttons.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a budget-friendly desk: Since the Sway uses all-natural wood chunks, the Sway is not cheap. It's a premium desk price because of its premium desk pieces.

❌ You want a perfect desk: The organic and natural nature of the wood used means that no two desks will look exactly alike.

❌ You want built-in cable management: There is sadly no cable management on this desk, though you could get some directly from a third party.

The bottom line

↕️ The Ergonofis Sway is literally unique due to its solid wood top and integrated swipe touch screen. The desk is made from premium materials and has a price to match. ★★★★

What you need to know

While we have been using this desk, we have had no issues with any part of the desk whatsoever. It has continued to work well, even after hours of use. The desk is adjustable with smooth motors to lift it up to 48.3in / 110cm at maximum extension and measures up to 72 x 30in / 183 x 76cm, all while looking more like a piece of art than a desk.

Design and Build Quality: This desk is made from premium wood for the desktop, has solid and sturdy legs, and has a unique swipe touch screen for controls. The desk is made of a sustainable solid-wood surface by local woodworkers based out of Canada. The touch screen though it takes a few times of using it to get used to how it operates is actually quite brilliant. The gestures are simple and intuitive and the added class it brings from being a piece of technology embedded in a beautiful slab of wood is just remarkable.

Performance: This desk has two presets for up to four users. This desk can rise and fall smoothly without much noise, and since it uses the same legs as another one of our favorites, the Ergonofis Shift, we know that they will remain consistent and reliable over time.

Features: Outside of the eye-catching touchscreen controller, this desk includes half of our favorite cable management and allows adding on our favorite cable management tray/mounting grid, which happens to be created by the same company. We know that you probably don't want to drill a bunch of holes into this beautiful desk, which is why we would suggest adding this cable management mounting grid then you can mount everything else to that grid, avoiding more holes in your beautiful desk.

Value for money: It's no secret that the Sway from Ergonofis is high quality and fancy. While most desks are cheap MDF, the solid, beautiful wood top proves right away that this desk is of a different caliber than those cheaper desks. That said, it's still a reasonable price for all this desk includes and the quality of craftsmanship put into the refined edges and grommets. This desk feels almost fun to use and elevates the area that it is in.

Read our full Ergonofis Sway review

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Ergonofis Sway Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceIt's priced well for what it is on paper, but that's still a lot ★★★★☆DesignThe solid piece of wood is absolutely beautiful and the minimalist controller is sleek.★★★★★PerformanceEverything works well, the controller has up to 8 presets across users.★★★★☆FeatureOutside of the desk being solid wood and having a touchscreen controller, there are no other fancy features.★★★☆☆

Best L-shaped standing desk

(Image credit: Brodan)

10. Brodan Electric Standing L Desk

Customizable for any corner

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

27 - 45in / 69 - 114cm

Desktop size:

67 x 59in / 170.18 x 149.86cm (24 x 67in / 60.96 x 170.18cm || 24 x 35in / 60.96 x 88.9cm)

Lifting weight:

265lb / 120kg

Storage space:

Warranty:

1 year

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Reasons to buy

Three independent motors

Power built in to desktop and display controller

Adjustable for "L shape" to be on left or right side

Reasons to avoid

Very heavy

Quite large

Buy it if

✅ You want an L-shaped desk: This desk has two perpendicular sections that bolt together, making them a great L-shaped desk that can fit either side of the main desk.

✅ You want power built into the desktop: The BRODAN L-shaped desk has a standard outlet plug and USB-A built-in power outlets.

✅ You want a lot of deskspace: This desk is no small corner piece. The Electric Standing L Desk from BRODAN is very large, taking up a lot of space and, in turn, offering a lot of desk space.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want great cable management: This desk doesn't have cable management, and BRODAN does not sell a different cable management solution.

❌ You don't have space for the large L-desk footprint: Even after looking at this desk online and understanding what we had coming in to look at, we were still shocked at just how large this desk is. It's huge.

❌ You want a cheap and simple desk: This desk is neither cheap nor simple. The giant L Desk takes some time to set up.

The bottom line

↕️ The BRODAN Electric Standing L Desk features an L-shaped worktop design allowing for even more workspace. There are some integrated power supply ports granting power within the desktop. The desk is solid and durable, quiet and smooth. ★★★★

What you need to know

This is a very large desk. While it's an L shape that can be put into a corner easily, it still takes up a lot of space. If you have the space, this desk is great. If not, you'll be shocked by how large it is. BRODAN has included power on the top of the desk for quick charging of devices. Additionally, BRODAN has used quality materials to build this desk, allowing everything to work smoothly.

Design and Build Quality: The L-shaped design can be modified to have the extra piece on the left or the right of the main desk. BRODAN also used a solid wood desktop that looks and functions well, helping keep everything as sturdy as possible. We tried the L portion of this desk mostly on the left of the main desk portion, though depending on your room setup, the opposite may be best for you.

Performance: I find this desk to be very user-friendly, providing a smooth and effortless experience of adjusting its height. The legs are notably robust and stable, while the anti-collision sensors ensure safety during height adjustments. We accidentally tested the anti-collision sensors a few times with our chair back getting bumped under the desk, or similar. Thankfully, the desk stops right away, keeping anything below safe.

Features: The built-in power supply is a nice touch, though we admittedly wish there was some on the underside of this desk too. The three height presets help get to a desired height quickly and easily, and for most people, 3 presets are plenty. Regarding the power in the desktop, we set up this desk with this outlet on the inside of the L of the desk, so we could easily access it by plugging in a laptop, extra battery pack, lamp, or whatever else we were testing quickly. Having this built-in was actually quite nice and is something that we still miss with our other desks that do not have this feature.

Value for money: Overall, this desk is a good value. The desk is made from quality materials, as are the legs. The construction is solid and sturdy, and the motors work well. While we wish for more cable management, that does not stop us from recommending this desk as a great option.

This desk is currently undergoing our comprehensive review process.

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BRODAN Electric L Standing Desk test resultsAttributesNotesRatingPriceThis desk's price Is a little higher than we wish it was, though it's within the window of being a fair price compared to competitors.★★★★☆DesignThe desk's L shape design is great for those who have the space and/or need the space.★★★★☆PerformanceThe desk is smooth to operate and the height presets are easy to use.★★★★☆FeatureThe buillt-in power on top of the desk is quite helpful and a nice touch.★★★★☆

Best standing desks: Honorable mentions

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(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lillipad

Best for portability

Specifications

Dimensions:

52 x 25in

Height Range:

6 - 48in

Lifting Capacity:

75lb

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Reasons to buy

Compact, all-in-one design

Wheels to help move easily

Built-in power strip

Easy-to-use control panel

Can collapse to store easily

Reasons to avoid

Heavy to move around

Built-in USB-A and USB-C are slow

The Lillipad is an incredible adjustable desk that fills an entirely different type of niche. While yes, the desktop can move up and down from sitting to standing with the touch of a button, this desk can also fold down and roll under a couch or be tucked in a closet for storage.

We were quite impressed with the desk's ability to function as a quality desk and then break down to hide away and be out of sight. At its lowest, this desk measures a mere 6" off the ground, and yet can reach 48 inches at its highest setting.

The built in wheels make it super easy to move this desk around as well, especially if you are rolling your workstation under furniture that is already in the same room the desk is in.

This desk also features built in power, which we found to be adequate when we considered that this desk is clearly not meant for those with a huge setup but more for quick or smaller workstations.

All in all, we were quite impressed with this desk, even though it does not fit the traditional format.

Read our full Lillipad standing desk review

Image 1 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

OdinLake Electric

Best budget alternative

Specifications

Dimensions:

47 - 60 x 24 - 30in

Height Range:

24.2 - 49.8in

Lifting Capacity:

275lb

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Reasons to buy

Sturdy lifting

Quiet lifting

Easy to assemble

Great accessories

Reasons to avoid

Cheaper feeling control panel

Some areas feel slightly unfinished

The OdinLake Electric is a great budget option that is both stable and has a high lifting capacity. The controller has three height presets, though the controller itself feels a bit cheap compared to some of the others we've tried.

Setting up this desk was super easy, and took only about 10-15 minutes. Overall, this feels quite stable and has a 275lb lifting capacity. OdinLake chose to give this desk dual motors, helping with the smooth and steady 1.2"/second lift speed.

If you are looking for a great budget standing desk, this is one worth considering, especially for the money.

(Image credit: Flexispot)

Flexispot E7 Pro

The best desk, but updated

Specifications

Dimensions:

48 x 30in (other options)

Height Range:

25 - 50.6in

Lifting Capacity:

440lb

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Reasons to buy

Quiet dual motors

Cable management

Great keypad

Improved height and weight ranges

Reasons to avoid

Somewhat expensive compared to the E7 original

May be more than most users need

This desk has just arrived as an update to the beloved Flexispot E7. Like the E7, the E7 Pro still has a great keypad, quiet dual motors, and cable management. The difference is that the E7 Pro has also improved all of those things.

The E7 Pro has a slightly higher overall range, can hold 85lb more weight, adjusts faster from height to height, has better-included cable management, and has more countertop options.

The E7 Pro is, dare we say it, our beloved favorite desk, but just a bit better just about everywhere. The only downfall is that it's also $170 cheaper on average.

How to choose the best standing desk for you

When it comes to finding the right standing desk, there are a few key features that you should look for. Finding a quality option ensures your workday is comfortable and productive. Whether you’re looking for an adjustable height solution or something more traditional, having the right ergonomic features can make all the difference in promoting a healthy and comfortable work environment. Here are some key features you should look for.

First, finding a desk with an adjustable height range is important. When sitting, your arms should be 90 degrees while typing, while your elbows should be slightly bent during standing. Having a desk with an appropriate height range will help you find the perfect position for sitting or standing. Additionally, look for desks that offer adjustable width configurations so you can fit more than one person in the space if needed.

Finally, consider features like cable management and storage solutions to keep your workstation organized and clutter-free. This will help ensure you can easily find the necessary tools and supplies to complete your work efficiently. Additionally, look for models with anti-collision technology to protect the desk and any items stored on it during height adjustment. With these key features in mind, you will surely find one that suits your needs.

We asked Elsa Sinjaga, marketing manager at Treston, what customers should consider when buying an ergonomic desk:

Studies repeatedly show “an improvement in discomfort and pain as people use [standing] desks.”
Elsa Sinjaga, Marketing Manager, Treston

Costs associated with health and safety problems are an ever-increasing concern to all industries. For instance, studies repeatedly show “an improvement in discomfort and pain as people use [standing] desks.” Though they’re just one step in the right direction – you should also take breaks and get your muscles moving and your blood pumping, not to mention stay active generally – on top of alternating between standing and sitting.

Occupational musculoskeletal disorders caused by poor working postures cause physical strain on employees and burden companies through sick leave, incapacity for work, and decreased productivity. This concern drives industries to seek solutions for a healthy, safe, and productive working environment. Designing a workplace with ergonomics in mind improves employees' well-being and productivity.

Designing a workplace with ergonomics in mind improves the employees’ well-being, which in turn improves productivity.
Elsa Sinjaga, Marketing Manager, Treston

One key element to a well-functioning workspace is an ergonomic, height-adjustable desk. Here is a list of five key factors to consider when selecting and buying an ergonomic desk.

1. Height adjustment method

Hand crank, if the workbench's height is adjusted only once or twice a day, for example, during a shift change. Electric height adjustment, if the workbench height is adjusted several times a day, e.g. several workers working on the same bench, or work requires different working postures (sitting, standing, semi-sitting). Another piece worth considering is the number of motors. The difference between a single-motor and a dual-motor desk may seem insignificant. However, the weight capacity and lifting power are increased with two motors.

2. Consider safety and durability

Make sure the desk has a sturdy and stable structure, and it can withstand loads common to your workplace. If you have accessories, e.g, shelves or bin rails & bins, above the work surface, make sure the structure of the frame withstands loads above the work surface without tipping over. Further, opt for durability when you can. The higher-quality desks have passed stability and durability tests and will last for years, making the added financial investment well worth it. If possible, choosing a brand with extended warranty coverage and certifications regarding their safety measures would also be wise.

3. Is a sufficient range of accessories available?

Accessories on arms, such as auxiliary shelves, LCD screen and keyboard holders, document holders, equipment trays, and such, are vital in reducing unnecessary reaching and in ensuring proper ergonomics.

(Image credit: creston)

4. Worktop size

The primary work zone where you usually work is rather small. The image below shows the primary, secondary and tertiary work zones. Consider these working zones and the size of the workpiece when selecting the appropriate size for your worktop size.

5. Easy and effortless usability

No matter what the tasks are and whether there is only one or several workers using the workbench, make sure there desk is easy to operate. Height adjustment should be effortless and quick and adjusting the accessories to the operator should not require tools or force.

The modular design of workbenches enables proper ergonomics. Modularity and accessories are individually adjustable according to the task and operator requirements. Look out for workstations and accessories that are adjustable for operators of different heights working with left or right hand. Correctly adjusted workstations decrease muscle stress and enable productive work throughout the shift.

6. Other thoughts

A few other things that have yet to be mentioned are worth looking into. First off, while aesthetics may not seem as important right off the bat, having a desk that fits your personality, your space, and your style can help with overall productivity in the space.

Anna Bettina Pangalangan from Flexispot tells us more about her secrets to find the best standing desk for your ideal home office setup:

Having a dedicated working desk is beneficial: It can increase creativity and productivity since you have a space where you can set up your computers and files in one place.
Anna Bettina Pangalangan, Flexispot

Remote working will likely be the new normal for some, even if some offices are already calling back their employees. If you are one of those who are staying at home and working, you might as well invest in a standing desk.

Having a dedicated working desk is beneficial: It can increase creativity and productivity since you have a space where you can set up your computers and files in one place. Another advantage is that having a working table reinforces boundaries between home and work life. This is the area where you can draw the line.

As much as possible, opt for an ergonomic working desk. Traditional desks are cheaper but they do not offer any ergonomic benefits. An ergonomic desk allows you to stand and sit on the fly because of its height adjustment feature. Investing in one can help you to achieve a healthy and pain-free body by encouraging you to stand more often.

Prolonged sitting is linked to cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. It also contributes to chronic back pain because of poor posture. Moreover, over-sitting can also affect mental health by increasing the rates of anxiety and depression.

The key is to have the right mix of standing and sitting throughout the day.
Anna Bettina Pangalangan, Flexispot

But then again, there should be a balance between sitting and standing. Standing all day is also not highly recommendable. Being on your feet for long periods can put a lot of pressure on your legs, which can cause swelling, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. The key is to have the right mix of standing and sitting throughout the day.

Exercising alone is not enough to counter the effects of too much sitting. Incorporating standing and movement into your day through to use of a sit-stand desk is going to be more beneficial.

Best standing desks: FAQs

What are the different types of standings desks?

Fixed or non-adjustable standing desks come at a predetermined height and don’t have the option to revert to a traditional desk for sitting down.

Electric standing desks, like the ones above, are very simple to operate with the option to alter between a standard seated desk and one for standing - all at the push of a button.

Mechanical standing desks function the same as their electric counterparts, but will need to be manually cranked to reach your desired height.

Pneumatic standing desks use gas-powered canisters to allow for rising and lowering the desk, similar to those often found in height-adjustable office chairs.,

Exercise desks are a niche range of office furniture that let you workout while you work - for example, including a treadmill or bike attached to the desk area.

Desk converters or risers are a separate device that can be placed on top of a standard desk, letting you put your monitor and peripherals at eye-level when standing.

Are standing desks actually worth it?

Height-adjustable desks are becoming increasingly popular, and with good reason. Standing while you work can help improve posture, reduce back pain, and provide other health benefits like improved blood circulation and a boost to energy levels. Additionally, studies have shown that standing while working may lead to increased productivity, which helps keep you focused and alert.

However, it’s important to consider the cost when deciding whether it's worth getting one. Some can be quite expensive, especially if you want one of higher quality with adjustable heights. Additionally, standing all day can also lead to fatigue and soreness in your legs, so it’s important to make sure you take breaks and move around regularly.

While using a sit-stand desk can be beneficial, they may not be worth the cost or effort for everyone. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before commiting. If you decide to purchase one, take regular breaks and move around often to maximize its potential benefits. This way, you can get the most out of your purchase and ensure it’s truly worth it.

How long will a standing desk last?

The longevity of a standing desk depends on the materials and quality used to construct it. Generally speaking, a good-quality option should last between five and ten years with regular use. The lifespan may be extended significantly if a higher grade of material is used, such as maple or oak, instead of particleboard.

For instance, if you're careful to avoid slamming drawers shut or putting too much weight on the desk, the lifespan should be extended significantly. Furthermore, if you choose to use a high-grade finish such as oil or varnish, it can help to protect the wood against wear and tear and extend its lifespan.

It should last between five and ten years with regular use when appropriately constructed. Taking good care of it by avoiding slamming drawers shut or putting too much weight on the surface is a great way to ensure it will will last for many years. Furthermore, if you choose higher-grade materials such as maple or oak and finish the wood with an oil or varnish, you can extend the lifespan even further. With regular care and maintenance, a good quality choice should provide many years of service before needing to be replaced.

What are the benefits of using a standing desk?

Using these kind of desks has been shown to have numerous benefits, including improving posture and reducing the risk of back pain, as well as potentially increasing productivity and burning more calories. They allow for a more active workstyle, which can be beneficial for those who spend long hours sitting at a desk.

As Anna Bettina Pangalangan at Flexispot told us, the best standing desks don’t just allow for a more creative, productive workspace. Height-adjustable desks also offer ergonomic designs for greater comfort compared to traditional sitting desks.

She also noted the health benefits to consider. Sitting for extended periods of time has been linked to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes - issues that are alleviated by being able to sit or stand at a desk as required, so you don’t need to be stuck in one position for too long.

Then there’s mental health wellbeing that comes from using one. Pangalangan said prolonged sitting can increase the rates of anxiety and depression. Another benefit is it helps reinforce that all-important work-life balance.

Do I have to have my standing desk near a plug socket?

Ideally, yes, as most are electric. However, mechanical and pneumatic desks don't require electric to move up and down- in which case, they can be placed anywhere in your office or home office. Fixed standing desks are not height-adjustable, so these, too, can be placed anywhere.

It will also depend on the length of the cord included with your rising desk and any other devices you're using that need to be plugged in, such as a PC or laptop. For powering other devices, if you're not near a plug socket, you can use an extension lead - many on the market include mounting points for power adapters, additional sockets, and cable management features.

Are standing desks adjustable?

Yes, most are adjustable. Adjustability is one of the key features here, as it allows the user to easily switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. The range of adjustability can vary, with some desks offering a greater range of height options than others.

Are standing desks easy to assemble?

The ease of assembly can vary depending on the specific one being used. Some desks are simpler to assemble than others, with clear instructions and all necessary tools included. It is important to carefully read the assembly instructions and make sure you have all the necessary tools before beginning the assembly process.

What is the maximum weight capacity of a standing desk?

The maximum weight capacity can vary depending on the specific model. It is important to consider the weight of any items you plan on placing on the desk, as well as your own weight. Smaller desks and desktops that are less expensive may not be able to support as much weight as larger or more expensive desktops.

How we test the best standing desks

Our team of expert reviewers have tested a wide range of office and home office furniture, including the best office desks. So, we know what to look for - and what to avoid - when you need a mechanical or electric standing desk for work.

We prioritize field testing above laboratory testing since that is where items are utilized. On the other hand, we benchmark each product that sells based on particular performance characteristics.

We checked everything after assembly, including the stability at the desks' highest point and their volume when extended. We looked at how simple it was to raise the desk both with nothing on it and with a lot of supplies. We also considered how well-designed they were because a desk should complement your home office. We also considered the desk's level of customization when determining its final ranking because many can be configured with various materials and surfaces — you can choose between laminate and hardwood tops, colors, and more.

For each desk, we perform benchmark testing, and we use this as a desk in our office space for an extended time to make sure we gain a broad understanding of how the desk operates in the real world. During testing, a few areas we focus on are the essential functions and how easy it is to assemble, notable features, customization options, build quality, and stability. An exclusive TechRadar Pro standing desk survey from early 2023 concluded that over a fifth of the people polled did not own one but were looking to buy one. Of that group, the vast majority reported increased health benefits as one of the main reasons to want one.

For more about our test and review process in our guide How we test standing desks