The Best Standing Desk for Home Office

While sitting for hours might not sound problematic, there is evidence that prolonged sitting at work can have negative effects on your health.

Prolonged sitting has been connected to a higher risk of acquiring health conditions like Type 2 diabetes, muscle strain, heart disease, and lower metabolic rates. Using the best standing desk in the office or at home can help reduce risks of those health conditions.

Experts have recommended the use of standing tables at offices and believe it’s a healthier alternative to sitting for hours on end. By using a home office sit stand desk, you can raise your desktop computer or laptop to the proper standing height. This setting offers an ergonomic, comfortable and more accessible way to perform work tasks while standing.

Things to Look for in Stand Up Desks for Home Office

Desk Type

There are many complete stand up desks, as well as standing desk converters on the market.  If you have an existing desk, a converter is the best option.  Otherwise look for complete desks which include a free-standing frame and desktop

Stability

Stability of the desk, especially when in the extended (or standing) position is very important.  It should not wobble with normal use.  Heavier desks tend to be more stable, but make sure if you choose a sit stand converter that your main desk can support the weight of the unit.

Work Surface

Make sure the size of the work surface meets your needs.  Do you need a lot of room?  Or perhaps you need a compact option to fit in a small space.  Many desks are dual tier or include a monitor riser which helps free up space on the desktop and also position the monitor at a comfortable height

Ease of Adjustment

There are several types of adjustment mechanisms.  The one you choose depends on how often you plan to switch between sitting and standing.  Also, some desks offer a continuous range of adjustment, while others have several fixed height positions.  The continuous adjustment option provides a little more flexibility when positioning the desk.

Stand Up Desk Options for your Home Office

There are several types of standing desks on the market.  First, there are complete standing desks which offer either manual, electric or mechanical (crank) adjustments.

Maybe you don’t want to get a complete desk for your office.  Perhaps you already have a desk or workspace that you like.  In that case as standing desk converter (or stand up desk topper) allows you to convert your existing workspace a standing desk.

Here are some standing desks and standing desk converters available today.

Standing Desk Converters

VARIDESK Pro Plus 36 Height-Adjustable Standing Desk

The Pro Plus 36 is one of VARIDESK’s most sought-after models and like other adjustable desk risers, lowering and raising it is quite effortless. It’s strong in all positions and it also comes fully assembled straight out of the box.

The Pro Plus 36 features a keyboard deck that can be adjusted individually from the desktop deck. This makes for excellent ergonomics so users will feel more comfortable at work. You can customize the arm and head angles you prefer.

However, performing other actions on the desk like writing notes might pose a challenge for some individuals. If you’re taller than 6 feet, you have to measure the height of your desk and the maximum height of the standing desk you’re interested in so you can guarantee that the model will be capable of adjusting to a height that’s comfortable for you.

Pros

• Very strong at any height level
• Durable and overall excellent construction
• Requires easy, fast lowering and lifting mechanics

Cons

• It’s heavy, so you may need help moving it
• Price

Read the full review here

Check the price for the Varidesk Pro Plus on Amazon

 

VIVO DESK-V000B Height Adjustable Standing Desk

The VIVO V000B is a standing desk that promises to make your work situation healthier by allowing you to transition between sitting and standing. Get more movement by using this standing desk—you can sit or stand within seconds by using a state-of-the-art height lock mechanism.

This mechanism can be activated by means of the desk’s pressure handles on each side of the unit. It has a sizable expansive surface that offers ample space for single or dual monitor setups, while its lower desk can hold both the mouse and keyboard side by side for an ergonomic, comfortable working space.

The model is made with excellent quality materials and has a strong feel with an easy setup process. It provides a good number of level adjustments which works for people of varying heights and comfort preferences.

You can modify the gas spring tension to make lifting the unit easier, but it can still readily hold the table securely. Users can also use their mouse on both surfaces without using a mouse pad. The lowered position is suggested for easing back and neck strain. As an added bonus, this desk has an affordable price.

Pros

• Sturdy and made with top-notch materials
• Easy to assemble out of the box
• Has an excellent range of height adjustments
• Surface can accommodate a mouse without a mouse pad
• Affordable model

Cons

• Using the height adjustment might take some getting used to

Check out the full review for this desk

Check the price for the VIVO DESK V-000B on Amazon

 

FlexiSpot 35-Inch Wide Platform Height Adjustable Standing Desk Riser

The FlexiSpot 35-Inch Standing Desk Riser makes transitioning from a sitting position to a standing position easier for users each day at work or at home.

This is unlike other standing desk models available in the market and can swing off of users’ desks in the top position. This particular model can be modified straight up and down and it allows users to remain close to their desk and at the same time, maximize their desk space.

If you’re fond of working long hours in the office or at home, a standing desk like this model can ease back and neck strain. You can simply modify the desk riser to stand up and you can continue with your work in an upright position. It has been said that standing desks have huge benefits and due to the ergonomics that fixtures like this provide, your productivity will improve.

The model was able to raise everything in a single motion and is stable to boot, so you can get on with work without being sidetracked by a wobbly desk or objects falling off of it. It has a sufficient work area too and its keyboard tray can accommodate several devices including a mouse, keyboard or tablet. It even includes a slot for your phone.

No products found.

Pros

• Simple and easy to set up
• Has smooth lifting and lowering mechanism
• Sturdy and durable
• Has a slot for phone or tablet
• Has a big work area

Cons

• Might be expensive for some

Check out our full review of the Flexispot riser

Check the price for the No products found. on Amazon

 

Rocelco ADR Height Adjustable Sit to Stand Desk Computer Riser

The Rocelco ADR will make life at work much, much easier for individuals who do their jobs in front of their desks all day. With a standing desk/riser on hand, you can sit and stand throughout the day and gain all the benefits that come from being able to move around in the office. Those short lunch breaks are not enough.

This desk will give you more time to relax your body from that cramped sitting position and stand for an hour or few while doing your job.

The unit raises the desk and keyboard tray into four extra lifted positions and you can lift it up to 16.3 inches above their current desks. It has a broad surface and can hold up to two monitors, or a laptop.

At this time, the ADR desk riser is the only model that includes a retractable keyboard tray. The tray lets users get into a more comfortable, ergonomic position and is also big enough to contain a laptop computer compared to other models. With other models, users might have to move the laptop or the whole riser each time they switch from a sitting to a standing position.

It has a gas spring mechanism and comes completely assembled, so you won’t have to do any additional work before using it.

Pros

• Comes fully assembled
• Has a big working surface
• Includes retractable keyboard tray
• Offers a smooth up and down transition

Cons

• Plastic work surface can get slippery at times
• Users have to utilize mouse pad for their mouse

Check out our full Rocelco ADR Riser review here

Check the price for the Rocelco ADR Desk Riser on Amazon

 

Adjustable Standing Desks

Stand Up Desk Store 40-Inch Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation

It was said that academics of old made use of standing desks for studies and work. This concept is even more useful in these times due to the fast growth of our sedentary lifestyles. The standing desk has seen many improvements over the years and modern models offer comfortable sitting and standing positions.

We’ve mentioned that switching between a sitting and standing position can have lots of benefits, especially for the body. It eases neck and back pain, increases focus and improves productivity.

This model is designed to do all that—provide a space where users can go about their work without putting much strain and tension on their bodies. The 40-inch Ergonomic Stand Up desk Computer Workstation includes two upper shelves which are broad enough to hold a monitor and a keyboard.

The shelves can be adjusted up to an inch. Apart from that, they help keep the screen of the computer to an appropriate level so users will not strain their bodies at work. It moves smoothly during transitions, too.

Another bonus—the workstation has three casters and two of them having locking brakes, which makes it easy to move.

Pros

• Very sturdy and durable
• Includes lower rack for computer
• Well-made
• Includes 4 furniture casters (2 have locking brakes)
• Offers excellent, smooth transition

Cons

• Set up requires two people
• Might be expensive for some

Read our full review of the Stand Up Desk Store Workstation

Check the price for the Stand Up Workstation on Amazon

48-Inch Crank Adjustable Height Desk from Stand Up Desk Store

The Stand Up Desk Store 48-inch adjustable desk is a two-tier adjustable height standing desk.  It uses a crank mechanism to raise and lower the desk.  Raising and lowering the desk is fairly easy and quick.

The work surface is generous, measuring 47″ x 14″ for the upper shelf and 47″ x 16″ for the lower shelf.

Pros

• Powder coat steel frame
• Generous work surface
• Two-tier design
• 4 color options

Cons

• Assembly required
• Fairly heavy – assembled weight is over 80 lbs

Read our full review.

Check Price of the Stand Up Desk Store 48-Inch Stand Up Desk on Amazon.

Stand Up Desk Store 40” Mobile Stand Up Desk

The Stand Up Desk Store Mobile desk is an adjustable height desk with a monitor mount to position your monitor in an ergonomic position.  It offers a good size work surface in a mobile package.

The main desktop is approximately 40″ x 28″ in, making it slightly more compact than some of the other options.  The included monitor mount helps save desk space by elevating the monitor from the top of the desk.

The desk frame includes 4 casters allowing you to easily move the desk around.  This may be helpful if space is a premium in your home office, or if you work in a shared space like the living room.  It can easily be rolled out of the way when not in use.  The casters lock to prevent movement when not in use.

The biggest downside to this desk is that the height adjustment is not easy.  The height can be adjusted with tools, but it is essentially a fixed height desk once set up.

Pros

• Compact work surface
• Adjustable monitor mount
• Easily moved due to the included casters

Cons

• Difficult height adjustment

Read our more detailed review here.

Check the price of the Mobile Standup Desk on Amazon

 

Reasons to Get a Standing Desk for your Home or Office

Alternating between sitting and standing can help you avoid the aches and pains that come from sitting in one position for a long time.  Individuals who often suffer from neck and back strain may find using a standing desk especially beneficial.

Here are some other reasons to get one.

Ergonomic work position

Standing desks can help alleviate back and neck strain from sitting too long. Individuals who have problems with their hips might suffer from constant pain if they don’t have opportunities to walk and move about regularly at work. With a standing desk, you can shift from sitting to standing position for a few hours each day, potentially easing pain and tension.

Provides ample work space

Standing desks are designed to have enough room for your working implements, from monitors or laptops to your keyboards and mouse. Some even feature slots for other devices like smartphones or tablets. With a standing desk or desk riser, you should always have enough room to work comfortably and efficiently.

Increased productivity and activity

One of the biggest benefits of standing desks is increased movement and productivity. Because you are more comfortable after switching from a sitting to standing position, your focus will be increased since you won’t be worried about bodily strains and aches. This should help you get more work done easily.

There are plenty of workers who suffer from back pain, and people who switch to standing desks have reported a reduction in lower back pain after just a few weeks of use. Those who suffer from chronic back pain due to prolonged sitting will probably also benefit from using a stand-up desk.

Enhanced mood and energy

Working in a more ergonomic and comfortable position will have a positive effect on your mood. Some standing desk users have noted a decrease in fatigue and stress due to shifting positions while at work.

Can help reduce the risk of obesity

Weight gain happens when individuals consume more calories than they burn.  In addition to a regular exercise and fitness regimen, opting to stand at work for a few hours can also be beneficial in helping burn calories during the day.  For example, standing for an entire afternoon at work can help burn 170 calories compared to sitting for the same period of time.

Some studies suggest standing has health benefits

One study reported that standing is healthier than sitting, in general. Bus conductors spend most of their time standing and walking around and it was found out that they have half the risk of heart-related conditions and deaths compared to their sitting counterparts, the drivers.

This has prompted scientists and researchers to better investigate the impact of prolonged sitting on the health of the heart and circulatory system.  Dr. James Levine stated in a recent interview that “sitting is the new smoking”.

It was also found that longer periods of remaining sedentary at work or home is linked with higher risks of Type 2 diabetes. Using a standing desk in the office or at home can help cut down blood sugar levels.  It’s also a great way to fight off the urge to take an afternoon nap after lunch.

The sit to stand mechanism is easy to use

Transitioning from a sitting to a standing position might sound complicated to some, but using a standing desk is very easy. Adjusting the height of the desk is as simple as shifting levers and you don’t have to worry about pinching or hurting your hands during the transition. These desks are designed to be user-friendly and to prevent injuries.

In fact, there are models that include a built-in braking system so the desk will not roll off your desk. There are also workstations with casters and lock-in brakes to keep the desks in place and make it easier for users to move the unit.

Standing desks are available in a variety of sizes, as well, so they can fit any size desktop computer or laptop. They are often heavy-duty and can take on weight up to 50 pounds. So whatever setup you use, you can easily find one that will suit your needs.

Recommended Accessories for Standing Desks

Investing in a standing desk is a great first step in investing in your health.  But if you want to maximize the benefits of a standing desk, there are a variety of accessories to consider. Here are some examples.

Monitor arms

If you’re using a desktop computer setup, monitor arms will be a big help. These arms can move up and down and side to side. Mounting your monitor to a monitor arm will ensure that it’s positioned in the best ergonomic position and that it will remain stable whenever you switch between sitting and standing positions.

Anti-fatigue mats

Those who are currently using standing desks should make use of anti-fatigue mats. These mats are designed to provide padding to the user’s feet. It can be used in any work setting where users will be standing for hours and they make excellent add-ons for standing desks.

Apart from providing cushioning, the mat will also present a gentle bounce-back that encourages leg movement and may lead to better blood circulation.

Here are some of my favorite anti-fatigue mats.

Storage

The majority of height adjustable workstations and standing desks do have a shelf (or multiple) available for users to store important items on. However, additional storage space might be necessary for those who have to deal with a lot of paperwork.

To help with this, there are a number of shelving options available.  There are side shelves that users can add to the standing desk for extra storage.

Add storage to any desk with this organizer from Amazon.

Footstools

Another advantage of standing desks is that they allow users to shift positions whenever they prefer. If you want more options for your desk, you can purchase a footstool. You can prop your feet up on the stool when you are sitting but it has an added advantage when you’re standing too.

If your feet feel tired or you need to reposition yourself but want to remain in a standing position, you can put your foot on top of the stool and rest your foot a bit while still maintaining your standing position.

Here’s an example of an adjustable footrest.

Frequently Asked Questions About your Home Office Standing Desk

What is a standing desk good for?

The main benefit of a standing desk is that it allows you to alter your position during the workday.  Experts have suggested that this can offer several health benefits.

Is a standing desk for you?  Here’s an article to help you decide.

What are the best practices of using a standing desk?

There are a couple of things to pay attention to.  First, make sure you don’t remain in one position (either sitting or standing) for long periods of time.  Alternate between sitting and standing, and while standing stretch and move your legs occasionally.

Second, make sure the desk height allows for a comfortable position for your hands, and that the monitor is at eye level.

Read more tips about using a standing desk here.

Is a standing desk suitable for long hours of work?

Like anything, it depends on the definition of ‘long’.  Remaining in one position for a long time can cause fatigue and muscle strain.  Its best to take frequent short breaks, and alternate sitting and standing.  Adding an anti-fatigue mat can help when standing for long periods of time.

Should I buy a standing desk?

Again, that’s a personal choice.  If you have space, an adjustable standing desk is a great way to start integrating standing into your workday.

If you would like to try out a standing workspace before committing to purchasing a desk, you can convert a table at home to a fixed standing height.  Use milk crates or sturdy boxes under the legs of a lightweight table to raise the height and see how you feel working at it.  Amazon also sells aninexpensive cardboard desk riser that allows you to try standing before committing to a desk.

Conclusion

If you spend hours a week at work sitting at a desk, getting a standing desk can have a positive impact on your health.  Long periods of sitting are linked to various health conditions. A stand-up desk is a great way to prevent aches, pains, and strains that come from remaining in the same position for long periods of time.

There are many types of stand up desks and accessories available:  freestanding, desktop risers (desk topper), anti-fatigue mats, footrests and monitor stands to help you set up a healthy and comfortable workstation at your office.