The best standing desks will revolutionize your office, allowing you to work in whatever posture is most productive for you, whether you’re a WFH or WFO. Nobody benefits from long periods of sitting. Workers who have a sedentary lifestyle are more likely to experience anxiety and depression at work and have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Sit-stand desks, which allow the user to change the height of their working surface from beneath them, are a great solution to the problem of sitting for a long time. In this article, we will discuss standing desks for the home office, the Vari standing desk, Uplift V2, and height adjustable desk.
What is a Standing Desk?
A standing desk is a type of desk that allows you to work while standing up. Desks in this category are made to help you work more efficiently and get more done every day without the nagging physical pain that might develop over time. Standing desks come in a wide variety of forms, and some companies even provide custom designs to meet the requirements of unusual workspaces.
Architectural drafters, web developers, graphic designers, creators of digital content, and even people who just want to stand while they answer the phone can all discover standing desks that are optimized for their specific tasks.
Also, some standing desks simply allow for one height, while others may be modified so that you can sit or stand as needed. In order to change the height of your desk, most standing desks either include an electric motor, a balancer, or a manual crank system. Standing desks typically come in a wide variety of heights, from 70 cm to 128 cm, making it simple to find one that is comfortable for you.
What Are the Different Types of Standing Desks?
It would appear that a standing desk is currently the object of widespread interest. The market has expanded significantly, with numerous novel products appearing from numerous manufacturers on a regular basis.
They are becoming increasingly popular, although the idea is still novel for many who do their work from home. We recently performed a poll and discovered that just 13% of respondents really use a standing desk while working from home.
While there is certainly no shortage of desks from which to choose, we think it’s more useful to group them according to their intended purpose and design. There are essentially three distinct varieties of standing desks in use today. You can choose among standing desks that are height-adjustable, standing desk converters, also known as desktop risers and fixed-height workstations.
#1. Height-Adjustable Desk
A height-adjustable desk that stands on its own is a great option if you’re in the market for a new workstation.
These stand-alone desk units have a height-adjustable design. There is a wide variety of these available, each with its own work surface, frame material, and means of customization.
You can’t go wrong with any of these popular manufacturers: Uplift, Jarvis, FlexiSpot, Autonomous, iMovR, EvoDesk, Seville, SHW, and many more.
You can have the best of both worlds with a height-adjustable desk and a high-quality ergonomic chair for the office. The same gains are possible with a standing desk converter. The main distinction is that height-adjustable standing desks typically feature a sizable desktop where you can set your computer and other office necessities.
However, a converter will necessitate additional space on your desk, and you’ll have to use your monitor and keyboard at different heights.
It could be more difficult to use a dual-monitor configuration or other peripherals.
#2. Fixed-Height Standing Desks
A fixed standing desk is exactly what it sounds like a workstation that is pre-set at a particular height. It doesn’t adapt to the varying heights of people seated or standing at a desk. There are a few niches where they really shine.
To begin, a stationary standing desk can be used in conjunction with a desk treadmill or stationary bike.
There are also several permanent portable desk units available. These are perfect for teamwork environments, medical facilities, and other places where getting up and around to interact with clients is a regular part of the job.
Make sure you have a comfortable chair handy if you opt to use one of them at home. Although standing while working might help you maintain good posture and burn calories, you should still take regular breaks.
Use a laptop and have a chair around so you can sit down and get some work done.
There are a few popular brands of stationary standing desks on the market, such as Safco’s and Stand Up Desk Store’s 40-inch mobile standing desk.
Naturally, you’ll want to construct a stationary unit at the correct height.
#3. Electric Standing Desks
Motorized height adjustment is available on a variety of converter and height-adjustable desk models.
Motorized columns may be raised and lowered with the touch of a button, and they come with a host of additional features, including built-in wire management and programmable controls.
If you want the least amount of effort possible when transitioning between sitting and standing at your workplace, an electric model is your best bet.
These are especially helpful if you suffer from chronic pain, such as that in your back or shoulders. Simply press a button to adjust the height of the desk. No heavy lifting or turning of knobs is necessary.
An electrical item may have some drawbacks, but that’s to be expected.
The first is monetary.
Some luxury electric vehicles, for instance, might cost more than $1,000. This is especially the case for L-shaped units or those with extra features like eco-friendly countertops (like bamboo) or motorized height adjustments.
Most standard models, though, will cost between $300 and $600.
Additionally, noisy electrical equipment is a problem. It could be disruptive to others if you keep adjusting the height in the middle of a work session. Thankfully, quality electrical appliances rarely make any noise at all. Read the feedback first, though.
Finally, the lifting functionality can sometimes malfunction or need maintenance because you are working with an internal motor and electrical components. You now have one additional cord to contend with.
What Are the Benefits of Standing Desks?
Here are several scientifically-backed advantages of working with a standing desk:
#1. Standing Lowers Your Risk of Weight Gain and Obesity
Consuming more calories than you burn off is the root cause of obesity. On the flip side, weight loss occurs when caloric expenditure exceeds caloric intake. Although exercising is the best way to burn calories rapidly, standing up instead of sitting can have similar effects.
In fact, studies have found that the same amount of time spent standing burns more than 170 extra calories compared to an afternoon of sedentary labour. If you stand up from your desk every afternoon, you can burn nearly a thousand calories every week.
This calorie disparity could explain why prolonged sitting has been associated with weight gain and metabolic disorders.
#2. Blood Sugar May Drop With the Use of It
As a rule of thumb, the more your blood sugar rises after eating, the worse off you are. And those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes can attest to this fact all the more emphatically.
Standing for 180 minutes after lunch lowered the blood sugar surge by 43% compared to sitting for the same amount of time, according to a small study involving 10 office workers.
The fact that the two groups’ step counts were identical suggests that the smaller increase was attributable to standing rather than to any other increased activity in the workplace.
Standing up and sitting down every 30 minutes throughout the workday lowered blood sugar increases by 11.1% on average in another study involving 23 office workers.
A sedentary is associated with a 112% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and the negative consequences of sitting after meals may be a contributing factor.
#3. Standing May Reduce the Danger of Heart Disease
In 1953, researchers originally suggested that standing rather than sitting would be better for heart health.
Bus drivers had twice the chance of dying from heart disease as their standing counterparts, according to the study. Since then, researchers have learned a great deal more about the dangers of sitting for lengthy periods of time, concluding that it can increase the risk of heart disease by as much as 147%.
The damage from a day of sitting is so great that it may not be undone by even vigorous exercise for an hour.
There is no doubt that increasing one’s time spent on one’s feet is good for one’s cardiovascular system.
#4. Back Pain May Be Lessened by Using a Standing Desk
One of the most prevalent complaints from people who sit at a desk all day is back pain.
Several studies on workers with chronic back pain have looked into the possibility that standing desks could help. After using it for a while, people have reported a 32% improvement in their lower back pain.
Using a sit-stand workstation for just 4 weeks was associated with a 54% decrease in upper back and neck pain, according to another CDC-published study.
When the sit-stand desks were taken away, some of the gains were lost within two weeks.
#5. Standing Desks Boost Energy and Mood
There is promising evidence that standing desks improve health.
Trial participants who used it for 7 weeks reported lower levels of stress and exhaustion compared to those who sat for the duration of the trial.
Furthermore, 87% of those who use standing desks report feeling more energized and alert throughout the day. After everyone had returned to their regular workstations, the mood had returned to normal.
These results are consistent with previous studies that have linked sitting time to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.
How Much Do Standing Desks Cost?
Brand, size, performance, and materials all play a role in how much a standing desk will set you back. Standing desk converters that are placed on top of a traditional desk can be purchased for as little as $100 to $200. Stand-alone desks with manual height adjustment can be found for around $200-$500.
Between $500 and $1,000 is a reasonable price range for a high-end electric standing desk with features like adjustable shelves and programmable height. Expensive standing desks might cost several thousand dollars if they are composed of high-end materials or include unique designs. When shopping for it, it’s important to think about your financial constraints and individual needs.
Are Standing Desks Actually Healthy?
Yes, if utilized properly, standing desks can be beneficial to your health. They help people sit up straighter, which in turn lowers the risk of developing health problems from sitting too much and eases back pain. It’s possible that standing can enhance energy expenditure and boost circulation.
But prolonged standing without rest intervals can be unpleasant and exhausting. The trick is to strike a balance between sitting and standing, adopting an ergonomic arrangement, and taking frequent breaks to move around and stretch. When combined with other ergonomic and healthy lifestyle practices, it can help improve health.
Overview of the Best Standing Desks
You can avoid the aches and pains that come from sitting all day by switching to a standing desk. The most effective standing desks are those that allow you to adjust the height of the work surface to maximize comfort and productivity. Here are some of the best standing desks you might want to consider:
#1. Uplift V2 Standing Desk
The Uplift V2 Standing Desk is widely regarded as one of the best standing desks available. With its exceptional combination of features and customization options, it caters to a wide range of ergonomic needs. The desk’s key strengths include electric height adjustment, offering a smooth and effortless transition between sitting and standing positions.
One of its standout features is the impressive array of customization choices. Buyers can select from various desktop sizes, materials, and colors, ensuring the desk fits seamlessly into any workspace. The Uplift V2 also offers optional accessories such as cable management solutions, power outlets, and monitor arms.
Stability and durability are hallmarks of this desk, thanks to its solid construction. It can easily support multiple monitors and other office equipment without wobbling. The control panel allows users to program preferred height settings for added convenience.
Overall, the Uplift V2 Standing Desk excels in providing a versatile, ergonomic, and customizable solution for those seeking a high-quality standing desk.
#2. Fully Jarvis Desk
Among the top-standing desks, the Fully Jarvis Desk stands out for its premium build quality, user-friendly layout, and adaptability. This desk’s automatic height adjustment makes it easy to go from sitting to standing at your convenience.
Different desktop sizes, finishes, and frame colors are just some of the many available customization options. Because of its adaptability, the desk can be used in a variety of settings, from a home office to a professional workplace.
The Jarvis Desk was built with longevity and reliability in mind. Its sturdy build makes it ideal for use with several monitors and other pieces of equipment without worrying about any shakiness. Users can save their favourite working heights in the desk’s memory and access them with a single touch.
In a nutshell, the Fully Jarvis Desk is an excellent standing desk option since it satisfies a wide range of customers’ demands in terms of reliability, ergonomics, and design.
#3. Vari Standing Desk
Among the top-standing desks, the Vari Standing Desk (formerly known as the Varidesk) stands out as a popular option. It is ideal for those who want to switch easily between sitting and standing throughout the workday.
Furthermore, the electric height adjustment system is one of the most notable aspects of the Vari Standing Desk, as it allows users to quickly and effortlessly change between different heights. The desk’s solid construction guarantees it won’t topple under the weight of many monitors and accessories.
Users may tailor their workstations to their own needs with the help of Vari’s adjustable desktops, which come in a wide range of sizes, materials, and additions. Its QuickFlex Cable Management solution is very useful for taming cable chaos.
The fact that it may be attached to the widely used VariDesk Pro Plus sit-stand converter is one of its defining characteristics. Users may enjoy the benefits of standing without having to completely replace their setup thanks to this converter, which can turn any workstation into a standing desk.
In addition, the Vari Standing Desk is an excellent option for individuals in the market for a sturdy, adaptable, and ergonomic standing desk.
#4. Steelcase Series 7
The Steelcase Series 7 is a model standing desk noted for its superior construction, sleek appearance, and user-friendly features. It’s one of the greatest standing desks on the market, and it works great in office settings.
The Series 7’s electronic height adjustment is the product’s crowning feature, allowing for a smooth transition between the seated and standing positions. Stability and longevity were primary design goals, so it could handle many monitors and other heavy equipment without tipping over.
The desk’s refined appearance is one of its best features, and it comes in a variety of finishes and materials to accommodate different workplace decors. It is constructed to endure regular use, guaranteeing durability and dependability.
The wires are hidden and out of sight thanks to the built-in cable management system, which is one of its distinctive features.
In addition, the Steelcase Series 7 is an excellent option for a professional-grade standing desk due to its high level of functionality, sleek design, and long lifespan.
#5. Ergotron WorkFit-T
The Ergotron WorkFit-T is a popular standing desk converter due to its reasonable price and high level of construction. This converter is not a replacement for a whole desk, but it can convert your current desk into a sit-stand workstation, making it a good option for individuals on a tight budget or with limited desk space.
The simple height adjustment mechanism of the Ergotron WorkFit-T is a standout feature that facilitates effortless transitions between the seated and standing positions. It has a large desktop that can easily handle multiple monitors, a keyboard, and other office necessities.
The converter’s X-shaped lift design ensures stability during height adjustments, and you can simply set it on your existing desk without any complicated setup.
Because of its low price, the WorkFit-T is a favourite among those with home offices or cramped cubicles who want to reap the benefits of standing while they work. If you want to go all the way with a standing desk, though, you might want to look elsewhere.
#6. Evodesk Pro
The Evodesk Pro is a high-end standing desk that stands out for its numerous personalization possibilities, cutting-edge technologies, and stylish design.
The vast number of available customization options is a notable quality. Customers can choose their own desks by picking from a wide range of materials, surface finishes, and dimensions. Cable management systems, monitor arms, and more power outlets are just some of the available add-ons for the Evodesk Pro.
The electric height adjustment mechanism of the desk operates quietly and smoothly, making it a pleasure to move from sitting to standing. Its sturdy construction ensures that it will remain steady even when used with many monitors and other devices.
Users can save their favorite desk heights in programmable height presets for future usage. The sleek, modern look of the Evodesk Pro elevates any office.
In addition, for those in the market for a premium ergonomic office solution, the Evodesk Pro stands out as a top-tier standing desk alternative thanks to its great personalization options, advanced functionality, and sleek design.
#7. Autonomous SmartDesk 2
The Autonomous SmartDesk 2 has become one of the most desirable standing desks because of its low price and extensive set of features.
This desk’s automatic height adjustment makes it simple to go from sitting to standing at the touch of a button. Its solid construction allows for the placement of many monitors without compromising stability.
The SmartDesk 2 excels in customization because of its wide range of desktop sizes, colors, and materials (including bamboo, which is good for the environment). In order to make the most of their desk space, users might install things like wire management and monitor arms.
The desk has adjustable height settings, so you can save your favorite working position. Additionally, it is affordably priced, making it a desirable choice for shoppers on a tighter budget.
In addition, the Autonomous SmartDesk 2 is a formidable rival for those seeking a balance between features and cost-effectiveness because of its inexpensive and adaptable standing desk solution.
#8. Humanscale Float Table
The Humanscale Float Table is a remarkable standing desk known for its minimalist design, ease of use, and ergonomic features, positioning it among the best standing desks available.
One of its standout features is its unique counterbalance mechanism, which allows for effortless height adjustment. Users can transition from sitting to standing positions smoothly with minimal effort. The absence of a visible crossbar provides ample legroom and a clean aesthetic.
The desk’s build quality is exceptional, with a sturdy frame that ensures stability even when loaded with multiple monitors and accessories. The Float Table boasts a thoughtful cable management system to keep wires organized and out of sight.
While it doesn’t offer an extensive range of customization options, its simplicity and elegant design make it an excellent choice for modern office environments.
In summary, the Humanscale Float Table is a top-tier standing desk favoured for its ergonomic functionality, minimalist appearance, and user-friendly operation. It caters to those who prioritize a clean and uncluttered workspace.
How Long Should You Stand at a Standing Desk?
Experts advocate taking it slow when making the switch to a standing desk because the optimal time to stand differs from person to person. Start off by standing for 15–30 minutes per hour, then work up to standing for about half the workday. In a typical 8-hour workday, this equates to standing for about 4 hours.
Also, it’s important to take short breaks every hour, preferably for 5–10 minutes of standing or walking. Prolonged standing without movement can cause discomfort and health problems, so it’s important to pay attention to your body and make adjustments as needed. Changing positions frequently between sitting and standing has been linked to improved posture and health.
Are Standing Desks Adjustable?
Yes, most standing desks are height-adjustable so that their users can switch easily between sitting and standing. These desks typically have devices that can be operated electrically or manually to adjust the height of the desktop. The ergonomic benefits of adjustability include a reduction in the negative health impacts of sitting for lengthy periods of time.
Adjusting the height of the desk to suit the user helps them sit upright and work efficiently. Since they allow workers to alternate between sitting and standing during the day, standing workstations have become increasingly popular in both commercial and domestic settings in recent years.
What Are the Best Standing Desks for Home Offices?
Here are some of the best standing desks for home offices:
#1. Fezibo Electric Standing Desk
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to make the switch to a standing desk for your home office, the Fezibo Electric Standing Desk is a fantastic choice. Fezibo had to scrimp in order to sell this desk for less than $200; thus, it only has one motor and doesn’t have the child lock settings of more expensive models. Nonetheless, the Fezibo Electric has a maximum height of 46.9 inches and a minimum height of 27.5 inches and can support up to 176 pounds (79kg).
Even though it just has one motor, the Fezibo Electric Standing Desk is nonetheless quite quiet and consistently impressed us during testing, making it our new budget selection. The hook in the desk’s rear is a nice touch for storing headphones, cords, and other items out of the way. A cable management tray is also available; however, it is sold separately.
#2. Branch Duo Standing Desk
The Branch Duo Standing Desk is the company’s second iteration of a standing desk, and it improves upon its predecessor in a number of ways. An updated OLED control paddle signals when it’s time to get up and move around. The back of each desk can be outfitted with a wire management tray from the Branch as an additional accessory.
One of the best things about the Duo standing desk is that it comes in two different sizes: a larger 48 x 25-inch variant and a smaller 36 x 24-inch one, both of which are ideal for tighter quarters. This desk from Branch is designed to be easily disassembled for transport thanks to its reusable inserts. The modern Branch Verve Chair complements the Duo Standing Desk.
#3. Realspace Smart Electric Height-Adjustable Desk
There are a few ways in which the Realspace Smart Electric Height-Adjustable Desk stands out from the competition. In addition to being a smart standing desk for your home office that can be controlled through an app or voice using Google Assistant or Alexa, it also features three USB ports on the side and pretty spacious drawers for storage. The majority of the Realspace smart standing desk is already installed; you only need to attach the legs and set up the keypad, which took me about thirty minutes.
There is plenty of room for a laptop and its accessories in the built-in drawers. However, due to its construction, the Realspace smart standing desk can only support a maximum of 88 pounds. Most people will find this more than adequate, but those who need to accommodate a large gaming computer and several monitors should look elsewhere, perhaps at the Uplift V2 or the Fully Jarvis Bamboo.
Are Standing Desks Worth the Hype?: Bottom Line
Standing desks have gained popularity due to potential health benefits. They promote better posture, reduce the risks of prolonged sitting, and may alleviate back pain. Some users report increased energy and focus when working while standing. However, the hype should be approached with caution. Standing all day can strain your legs and feet, potentially leading to discomfort or health issues. It’s essential to find a balance between sitting and standing using ergonomic setups.
Ultimately, whether a standing desk is worth it depends on individual preferences, work requirements, and health considerations. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or ergonomics expert before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big should my standing desk be?
Your standing desk’s width should be sufficient for your computer equipment and other necessities. Standard sizes range from 48 to 72 inches in width, with height adjustments for optimal comfort.
What is the standard height of a standing desk?
Most standing desks are height-adjustable to fit the needs of their users; however, the normal range for the desktop surface is between 28 and 48 inches (71 and 122 cm). Users can adjust the height to meet their own requirements for optimal comfort and ergonomics.
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