Standing desks have become very popular, and there’s a good reason for it.
If you’re looking to improve your posture and add some movement to your day, then an electric standup desk can be a great addition to your office.
The market for standing desks has grown rapidly, and you might be overwhelmed by all the different options popping up. In this article, we make that decision a little easier for you.
We will be discussing 4 types of standing desks: height adjustable standing desks, standing desk converters, desktop risers, and non-adjustable fixed standing desks.
4 Types of Standing Desks Explained
Height Adjustable Standing Desks
If you want to purchase a new desk altogether, then you should check out a height-adjustable standing desk.
With a height-adjustable standing desk, you have a surface for your desktop and adjustable legs. Meaning, you can move the desk’s legs up and down so you can switch between sitting and standing.
In essence, this type of standing desk will give you the best of both worlds.
If you’re considering purchasing a height-adjustable standing desk, then you need to be aware of the types of adjustment.
What Type of Adjustment Are You Considering?
Mechanical
A manual crank desk can be adjusted with manual hand cranking. Just turn the crank to lower or raise the desk.
A hand-crank type may take a bit longer to adjust from sitting to standing. If the speed of adjustment matters to you, then you should not opt for a hand crank adjustable standing desk.
Make sure you look for a model with a durable and smooth hand crank system.
Electric
Most sought after height adjustable standing desks tend to use electric motors.
Also, be aware that there is a difference between a dual-motor vs single-motor standing desk.
The electric lift allows you to simply push a button that adjusts the desk to a desirable height for you. This gives you the ultimate level of convenience as you can change from sitting to standing positions easily.
This is particularly useful for someone who struggles with back or shoulder pain as the hand crank system can require a bit more strength when adjusting. With the electric standing desk, there is no cranking or lifting required.
Even though electric adjustable standing desks are on the pricey side, they are more convenient to use than mechanical standing desks.
Make sure you know the difference between a pneumatic vs an electric standing desk.
Standing Desk Converters
If you would rather use your existing desk, then a converter is the right option for you.
A converter can be easily implemented and is a more economical option since you don’t have to buy a whole new desk. You just need to place the standing desk converter on top of your desk. You are then able to stand while working.
Due to their diminished size, converter desks are easy to operate. It allows you to easily lift it up and down, which gives you the option of switching between sitting and standing throughout the day.
If you are moving to different locations frequently, then you’ll find the standing desk converter useful since it’s portable. You can simply pick it up and transport it to the new location.
You get similar benefits from a standing desk converter as you would with a height-adjustable standing desk.
The difference is that the stand-alone adjustable desk comes with a bigger working space for your computer, pens, and papers.
In contrast, a standing desk converter takes up more existing space, and you will most likely have to place your keyboard and monitors on different tiers. Your mouse can be situated on the top level or lower tier, depending on what you find more comfortable.
You will then need to consider the best standing desk for 3 monitors.
If you decide on a standing desk converter, make sure that the model’s top-level has enough space for your working needs.
Desktop Risers
If you’re new to the standing desk lifestyle and want to start small, desk risers are a great entry option. If you do not have enough space on your desk for a converter, then a desk riser will work better for you.
The desk riser is smaller than the converter, but will still provide you with the ability to stand while doing your work.
It takes up less space and is easy to transport. Desk risers are also made of materials that aren’t as sturdy, so it is not as durable as other standing desk options.
Since desk risers are so small, they are more suited for home office use, or small working stations.
So, if a converter is too big for your liking, you can go for the desk riser.
Desktop risers can either be fixed or adjustable.
Fixed Desk Risers
If it’s fixed, it sits on top of your desk and acts as a surface for your work. You don’t have the option to adjust it.
Fixed desktop risers tend to be stylish and blend into your working station.
Adjustable Desk Risers
As the name implies, the adjustable desk riser allows you to adjust the height of the platform on your desk.
However, it has less range of motion than a converter or full standing desk. These types adjust manually.
Fixed Height Standing Desks
If you want a more permanent standing solution, then the non-adjustable standing desk is for you. This type of standing desk is constructed to a specific height. You cannot adjust it to stand or sit at different heights.
Fixed standing desks tend to blend more naturally with furniture in a house, and the materials are sturdier so it is highly durable. Since a fixed desk can act as a piece of furniture, it offers more shelves, drawers, and features.
Since you cannot adjust the height of this desk, you will be standing the whole time, which comes with many of the same downsides as spending the entire day sitting down.
If you are using a fixed-height desk, you need to take some breaks now and then, so ensure that you have a chair close to you.
If you have a desk stationary bike or treadmill set up, then you can combine it with a fixed standing desk.
If you work in a setting where you move around and deal with clients or customers, then this fixed-height standing desk can work for you. It also encourages collaboration. That is, it’s ideal for an office setting where people gather around to discuss projects.
If you work from home, you can pair it with an alternative sit-down desk for when you get tired from standing. The drawback is that it will be space-consuming to have both desks in one home office.
It’s also advised that you make sure that the height works for you.
Factors To Consider
There are factors you need to consider before choosing a standing desk model.
Do You Need a Corner Desk?
If you want to set up your desk in a corner, you need to look at standing desk models that are designed to fit into tight corners. You can also find L-shaped standing desks that will fit into corners.
Do you Use Two Monitors?
If you have a dual monitor setup, you need a standing desk that will have enough space for both screens, as well as extra space for your desk accessories and keyboard. You need to consider the best standing desk for dual monitors.
A stand-alone adjustable desk will have enough space.
Do You Need Extra Storage?
Fixed standing desks are usually built with extra storage.
Some portable options also come with built-in shelves and drawers. With that being said, extra storage is not common on height-adjustable desks.
Many heights adjustable desks come with enough surface where you can place your items.
Should Your Child Have a Standing Desk?
Standing desks encourage movement, good posture, and active learning, so children can benefit from them.
Standing desks are a great way to keep your child focused and engaged as they need to switch from sitting to standing.
You will need to find a standing desk model that’s constructed for the child’s height, learning space, and study needs.
Why You Should Buy a Standing Desk
Long periods of sitting are an inevitable part of life for many entrepreneurs, office workers, and freelancers in this technological era. Many people sit staring at their screens all day.
Unfortunately, prolonged sitting harms your long-term health and emotional well-being. From bad posture and back pain to the increased risk of diabetes and heart diseases, sitting for long is not good for anyone.
That’s why standing desks are beneficial, as they encourage movement and good posture.
To Conclude
You can lessen the physical strain of prolonged sitting by incorporating a standing desk, adjustable or fixed, into your office.
Although all these standing desks vary, each is easy to understand and use.
After reading this article, you will know which standing desk will suit you better than another one.
Did you find our blog helpful? Then consider checking:
