Standing desks or stand-up desks have been getting a lot of attention lately. Though these pieces of furniture visually just look the same as the typical tables you find everywhere, they are designed to allow users to stand while working on a particular task. They are meant to promote comfort and deliver some physical benefits among individuals.
According to research published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, standing can burn 88 calories/hour. Though it is just 8 calories higher than sitting, it is still seen as an essential benefit you can get in such a position. After all, sitting for long periods can lead to a higher risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Standing can burn 88 calories/hour.
Journal of Physical Activity and Health
There are various kinds of standing desks according to their build. They could come with a fixed or adjustable height that can be done manually or automatically. The latter, electric standing desks, apparently come at higher prices compared to the simpler models. Nonetheless, they make assembly and modification of height much easier and faster with just a push of a button. Some great examples are the sit-stand desk models being produced by the FEZIBO brand. They are basically meant to function as gaming desks but their legs are equipped with motors that allow fast conversion to standing mode.
Besides the mechanism of the table, the height of the standing desk is also something you should check. Since users’ heights vary a lot, a model that can offer various height levels would be great. Ideally, the height of your desk should at least have the same level as your elbows in a 90-degree position. For instance, an average 5'11” user should have a desk with a height of at least 44 inches. You can find it best in manual standing desks like the FLEXISPOT Standing Desk Riser, SUDC60-BK/BK, and SIDUCAL DK-01B.
To help you check the other elements necessary for an efficient standing desk, we listed more products for you. Tested, compared, and graded by SolidSmack’s group of experts, we are confident that you can find the best one for you here. Just carefully weigh their pros and cons and be enlightened with the comprehensive insights we concluded with the help of our research team. Here they are:
Best Standing Desks Comparison & Rating
1. FEZIBO Dual Motor Height-Adjustable Electric Standing Desk
Brand | FEZIBO |
Size/s | Available in 48", 55", and 63" |
Color | Available in 4 colors |
Height Adjustment | Electric |
Originally intended as a gaming desk, this versatile FEZIBO desk can instantly turn into a stand-up model using its 2 height-adjustable legs. The best thing about it? No need to manually adjust the legs. With just a push of the button, you can customize it to your desired heights from 27.6" to 47.3"! So, whenever you feel uncomfortable seating after hours of working, you can change it to a standing desk within seconds. Truly beneficial to exercise your muscles, plus the setup is a breeze! No hassle at all.
The movement of the desk surface is utterly level from the lowest to the highest level, thanks to the motors installed in both legs of the desk. It even comes with anti-collision technology that utilizes a built-in sensor that detects objects around. This prevents the desk from accidental scratches and bumps when something is blocking its way while adjusting the height. Neat!
Its alloy steel legs legs are thick and huge allowing it to stay vibration-free while the motors are adjusting the height. Just smooth, flawless movement. It can also handle as heavy as 176 pounds and even better: a wider working surface measuring 63" x 24". There is also a separate under-desk keyboard tray that can be easily pulled out once you need it. This gives you a wider space to place at least 2 to 3 monitors safely.
The ergonomic details are also great additional to make the use of the desk more remarkable. This includes the smooth particle board working surface, a set of 2 desk hooks, an under-desk cable management rack, and lockable/rotatable 360-degree casters.
2. FLEXISPOT Standing Desk Riser
Brand | FLEXISPOT |
Size/s | Available in 28”, 30”, 32”, 35”, and 42” |
Color | Available in 4 colors |
Height Adjustment | Manual (Lever) |
If you already have a working station or table at home and don’t want to replace or dispose of it, this converter will save you. It is very cost-efficient instead of purchasing a whole new desk. Plus, it means that it is just an additional extension which means you can still enjoy the original features of your old desk like drawers and other compartments.
This FLEXISPOT riser is available in 5 sizes which give you the freedom to choose, especially if you have old narrow tables or if you are using multiple monitors. You can choose from 28”, 30”, 32”, 35”, and 42”. They are also available in 4 colors (bamboo, black, mahogany, and rustic) to match your present desk.
The engineered wood used for the working surface is rather thick. It is also smooth to give you the comfort you need whenever it touches your skin. It can also handle weights as heavy as 44 pounds but it depends on the size of the riser. When used for two heavy and wide monitors, the movement of the riser remains steady on both ends. The leveling is truly top-notch and the motion is undeniably smooth. You can adjust it up to 19.7” and the best thing about it is that all the risers (regardless of size or color) have no predetermined height adjustment settings. With this, you can adjust them inch by inch just by squeezing the lever and pulling the surface up!
The design of the desk is also very notable and well-thought. Compared to other models that are simply designed with rectangular shapes, the FLEXISPOT converter comes in a U-shaped form. This gives the lower section of the riser more space for 17-inch laptops and even keyboards. Most of all, this keyboard tray can be detached easily! This should save you more space when you move but without even doing so, the riser itself is already a space-saver. While adjusting, the entire body of the riser stays in its place and doesn’t consume an additional footprint.
3. FEZIBO Dual Motor L-Shaped Electric Standing Desk
Brand | FEZIBO |
Size/s | 41.3" x 19.7" |
Color | Available in 3 colors |
Height Adjustment | Electric |
Besides the reputation of the FEZIBO in delivering quality electric height-adjustable desks, it also stands out in terms of workspace. This L-shaped desk model measuring 41.3” on both sides proves it. Nonetheless, keep note that the 41.3” measurement only refers to the outside edge of the desk. The other side where you work, on the other hand, measures 23.6 on both sides. Lastly, the width comes at 19.7” which is wide enough to cater to a monitor, a keyboard, and other objects.
With its layout and overall length, you can place 3 to 4 monitors on its surface. You can also designate one side for a single monitor and the other one for documents and books if you constantly need to multitask at work. Truly the best choice in terms of space. It even comes with a wooden stand that helps you elevate a monitor to put it at eye level.
Moreover, it also adopts the same height-adjustment system the brand is known for. Each leg has its own motor that elevates the desk surface. This makes the work much smoother and effortless. The vertical movement of the desk is flawless just like in other FEZIBO’s models and the surface stays level. The process itself is also a breeze since it employs buttons including the Up/Down buttons, Memory button, and Screen Lock button. With the mentioned controls, you can change its height from 27.36” to 46.06” just in 20 seconds. That said, it is one of those genuine sit-stand models that allow you to instantly change your working setup without any problems.
The desk also comes with anti-collision technology to save it from accidentally squeezing or bumping a chair under it when you are reducing its height. The legs are also very solid and have great construction, allowing them to carry up to 176 pounds of weight. There are even optional lockable casters that you can install on both feet to promote mobility.
4. Stand Up Desk Store SUDC60-BK/BK
Brand | Stand Up Desk Store |
Size/s | Available in 48 and 60 inches |
Color | Available in 5 colors |
Height Adjustment | Manual (Crank) |
SUDC60-BK/BK hits all the right standards for an effective standing desk. Compared to other designs where the computer monitor and the keyboard are only of the same level, this one gives you the freedom to elevate the monitor to match your eye level.
The first tier is 14” wide and can be adjusted from 33-1/2" to 47-1/4". On the other hand, it has a second 16” wide tier that adjusts from 28-7/8" to 42-5/8" for the comfort of use. The latter is much wider to allow better movement of the computer mouse with low sensitivity. It also allows you to work on other papers and documents while typing on the keyboard. It is also available in 60 inches working surface length.
Adjustments can be easily made using the crank that can be installed on either side of the desk. It takes 5 to 6 rotations to move an inch higher and once you have obtained the needed height, the elevated tier stays balanced and level.
It can be compared to the SIDUCAL DK-01B due to its divided sections and lockable casters. However, when it comes to stability, SUDC60-BK/BK is much more reliable due to the thick and solid construction of its legs. It also has better overall dimensions and weight capacity at 47" x 28.5" x 33.5" (to 47.25") and 154 pounds, respectively.
5. SIDUCAL DK-01B Mobile Stand Up Desk
Brand | SIDUCAL |
Size/s | 24" x 48" |
Color | Available in 2 colors |
Height Adjustment | Manual (Dial) |
SIDUCAL DK-01B is one of the best designs of standing desks that will give you the best comfort due to the versatility of its parts. Besides providing a flat working surface, half of the MDF board desk can be turned into a 45-degree tilted section for better access to keyboards and laptops. It also works great for writing and small drafting projects! There’s even a barrier strip at the said tilting section that prevents your things from sliding off! On the other hand, the other half of the desk remains flat which makes it perfect for stationary monitors. You can set it higher than the tilting platform to keep the monitors at eye level. Each platform measures 12” x 24” and has an individual weight capacity of 40 pounds.
Compared to other models, nonetheless, adjusting its height is much more challenging. Instead of a button or an effortless pull-up motion, the desk should be adjusted by turning and tightening a dial installed in each leg. It can be adjusted from 28” to a maximum height of 45”. The process of adjustment is quite a work, especially if you want to shift frequently from sitting to a standing position. This is why we will just recommend it if you just plan to use it as a fixed standing desk.
Despite the things mentioned, it shouldn’t prevent you from considering this desk since it can offer other excellent features. This includes the casters installed on each foot that are also lockable. With them, the desk has the mobility you need when rearranging your room. It can also work as an instant podium for presentations or a moving cart in offices since it is not as space-consuming as other models.
Best Standing Desks - Buyer's Guide
The space the standing desk can offer is a vital detail that determines how efficient the model can be. Though the size of the desk should still depend on the space available in your office or study or working area at home, it is still ideal to get the one that comes with great dimensions. One example is the FEZIBO Dual Motor L-Shaped Electric Standing Desk. If this is too big for you, there are innovative desk designs that come in two tiers like the SUDC60-BK/BK and SIDUCAL DK-01B. Such models allow you to place the monitor or a laptop on one of the tiers and use the other tier for other materials like documents and books.
In terms of height adjustments, it is no doubt that electric models are the best. You can adjust the height without problems at all. The process is fast and you can shift from sitting and standing without much effort. However, there are also good alternatives that let you easily pull up the desk for fast adjustment. Once you get the desired height, the desk locks. You can find it in FLEXISPOT Standing Desk Riser. However, this mechanism is only available in smaller desk units like the mentioned converter. Manual adjustments are commonly used for bigger models, be it a crank or dial. The good thing about manual models is that they allow adjustments inch by inch but the setup can be tedious. One example is the SIDUCAL DK-01B.
When searching for a standing desk, always check for the legs. Ideally, tables should at least have 4 legs to obtain stability. However, newer models now employ a two-leg design to save space. Thankfully, they also combine additional supports like levers and thicker construction to improve the balance of the desk. That being said, check for the specs of the desk if there are additional integrated features like the ones mentioned above.
The best standing desk is equipped with a great set of ergonomics that will make its use more comfortable and easier. Some include cable management trays, caters, tilting desk sections, and more. Getting such details on your desk will not just make your workspace more organized, but they will also add value to your purchase.
Apart from the thickness of the tabletop, the material also decides the durability of the desk. Wood is commonly used for desks but nowadays, manufacturers are also allowing the use of other materials such as MDF, glass, and more. If you don’t have the intention of maximizing the weight capacity of the desk, opting for other materials like the ones mentioned is still a good idea. Also, they allow better integration of other aesthetic details like additional textures and lighting.
Best Standing Desks - FAQs
A standing desk provides several health benefits including burning 88 calories/hour. It can also prevent a higher risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Most of all, it allows you to stretch your muscles after extended hours of work.
While standing has good health benefits for you, it is not advised to stand for an extended period of time. Ideally, you should shift from standing and sitting positions. With this, an electric standing desk that permits fast and easy height adjustment is recommended.
Standing desk users have different heights. However, there is a rule of thumb for standing desks that their heights should have the same level as the elbows of the users. This is why models with height adjustments are highly preferable.
Monitors on a standing desk should be at least at your eye level or lower. Setting it too high can cause neck pains.
