There are many different related products, but which one is best for you and your budget? First of all, congratulations on taking the initiative to purchase a standing desk. Your back and body will thank you for this investment.
I have worked for many desk companies in the past (and still do). Standing desks look very similar from the outside and it seems like the only difference is the price, but let me tell you, there are many differences in standing desks on the market.
8 things should to know when choosing a standing desk!
1.Type of Adjustment
Electric Motor.
Electric motors have one or two motors (sometimes 3) that require the use of plugs. They are the most common version on the market. Electric desks are perfect for those who need to carry a heavier weight, don't mind charging their desk and want something without surprises.
Gas springs (pneumatic/lever)
A pneumatic (lever) unit uses gas springs to raise and lower the desk up and down, similar to the height adjustment of an office chair. It's free, so you're not limited to using it where there's a plug. The difference between good and bad can be huge, so it's vital to read reviews from other customers. They are more flexible and quicker to adjust than motorized ones.
Cranks.
A crank is a manual mechanism that requires you to turn a circle until it lifts. This is the cheapest option of the three. It's ideal if you're on a budget but still want to enjoy the benefits of a height-adjustable desk.
Summing Up.
The only thing I wouldn't recommend is a crank desk. Crank desks are difficult to use; overloaded tables become difficult to raise and take longer to adjust in height. Typically, motorized desks are more expensive, but good pneumatic desks usually cost the same as motorized desks.
2.Weight capacity
This is where a lot of the price difference comes from. When comparing desks, it's important to check the weight capacity. Check to see if the weight capacity includes the weight of the desktop. Remember to add this before you arrive.
The higher the weight capacity, the better the quality of the motor and frame. Even if you won't have a lot on your desk, it's always good to keep a few extra pounds as a cushion.
For gas spring desks, it works a little differently and I'm happy to go into more detail in the comments section if anyone needs it.
If you carry a lot of weight on your desk, you should get a dual-motor desk; the weight isn't distributed proportionally and stability when raising and lowering the desk is critical for you.
3.Two or three levels/adjustment range
Most commercial height adjustable desks are three levels because it allows for a greater range of adjustment (lower heights and higher heights). If you are above or below average, a three level height adjustable desk may provide you with the correct height.
However, if you are comfortable with the minimum and maximum heights of a two-stage desk, I would go with a two-stage desk because they are less expensive than a three-stage desk.
Be sure to check the ideal sitting/standing height for your height (with and without shoes) and make sure that the desk you purchase offers heights a few inches above and below the minimum and maximum adjustments.
4.Memory Controller (for motorized desks only)
The memory controller allows you to record a preset height and automatically move to the preset position with the push of a button. This is very convenient because you can easily reach the desired height with a single click without having to hold up or down until the desired height is reached.
Some controllers come with an LED display that indicates the exact inches/centimeters your desk is set to. I think the memory feature is worth it, but if it adds a lot to the price, I don't mind skipping it. Also, if you're the only person using the desk, three memory slots will suffice.
5.Number of motors (only for electric desks)
Dual motors are always better than single motors. It's like having a 4x4 car versus a 4x2 car. If you are not a heavy user, a single motor will work just fine. Single motor desks are much cheaper than dual motor desks. However, they are more likely to lose their balance, but can be easily repaired by resting.
If you carry a lot of weight on your desk, you should get a dual-motor desk; the weight isn't distributed proportionally and stability when raising and lowering the desk is critical for you.
6.Noise Control
Electric desks can be noisy when in use. If used in a small space, the noise can be amplified. This factor is usually more important in a commercial office than in a home office. Assuming that a little noise while adjusting your desk won't bother you, that's fine. Be aware that less noisy desks are usually of better quality or have slower height adjustments. If you want a truly noise-free experience, choose a pneumatic desk.
7.Adjustment speed
Typically, pneumatic desks are the fastest to adjust (just like chair heights). Motor desks vary. The faster the adjustment, the higher the quality of the motor and the higher the price of the desk. Does speed matter? Well, honestly, it does. When you are very focused on your work and want to change positions, you will want to make the transition as quick and seamless as possible. Anything faster than 1 inch per second is good. If it's a motorized table and doesn't show an adjustable speed, skip it!
8.Warranty Length
An easy way to see the difference in the quality of a desk is the length of the warranty. Brands that are willing to offer longer warranties, especially on motorized desks, may use higher quality materials, motors, and manufacturing. Electric and gas spring products usually have a limited lifespan, and brands know this. A simple guide is that anything less than a five-year warranty falls into the cheaper range, while anything over a 5-7 year warranty can be considered a high-quality product.
Those are the eight main things I look for when choosing an adjustable height desk! A proper desk is as big an investment as a good chair and a good bed. Make sure you buy a product that fits your needs!
Remember, the purpose of a home office is to increase your productivity and support your goals, not to exhaust you.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.