With over 40 models tested, I've selected the best standing desks for the home and office, no matter what your budget.
Now, I've re-assessed every desk we've reviewed - and still the FlexiSpot E7 is at the top of the pile. If you work from home or in the office, it still offers the best blend of features, price, and performance (it's very quiet in operation).
I've also included a new budget pick, with the FlexiSpot E2 (or the ultra-similar E1 in the UK) delivering similar results to the E7 at a cheaper price. It might not have all the bells and whistles, but as an entry-point into sit-stand desks, I like what's on offer.
For a premium pick, check out the high-quality Herman Miller Fully Jarvis or the hand-crafted Grovemade Standing Desk. Nothing comes close to the build quality of these two standing desks. But you'll find something for all your needs in our definitive round-up below.
Our testing panel has compared the height-adjustable specs, reviewed on-going performance, and highlighted the best models for everyday work, extra storage, and anyone working in a compact workspace.
Editor's note
What's new? In the latest update, we've re-evaluated every standing desk we've tested to bring in some new models and retain the key picks for the home and office.
The quick list
The best standing desk overall
The FlexiSpot E7 is our top pick for anyone who wants a stable, height-adjustable standing up desk. Operation is smooth and quiet, and we found it perfect for offices and home offices.
The best standing desk on a budget
The base FlexiSpot model has all the core features you'll need from a sit-stand desk, without the premium price-tag.
The best executive standing desk
A true standing desk for professionals, the Fully Jarvis from Herman Miller boasts a 15-year warranty and heavyweight 350lb lifting capacity for those loading up the desk with devices. Ideal for the home and office.
The best standing desk for small spaces
One of the smallest standing desks we’ve ever tested, the Branch Duo is beautifully designed, can be accessorized and, impressively, comes with a 10-year warranty.
The best standing desk workstation
With a huge number of compatible accessories, the Uplift is perfect if you're kitting out your desk area to create a workstation set-up.
The best standing desk for ergonomics
Cleverly designed with a softer, waterfall-style edge that glides downward, this is the perfect way to alleviate pain and pressure points on your wrists.
See more desks
The best standing desk for modern workspaces
The Autonomous SmartDesk 5 line-up are a stylish bunch. Available in three sizes, the 5 Pro here boasts more comfortable rounded edges, a thought-out C-frame, and a design we called "an art piece."
The best standing desk for gaming
Our top-rated choice for gamers, this desk is specifically designed for gaming set-up and even has optional RGB strip lighting for bringing the right vibes.
The best standing desk with four legs
A highly stable standing desk that mimics the look of a classic office desk thanks to its four legs - with the added bonus of being height adjustable.
The best standing desk with drawer
It might not be the only standing desk with drawers here, but it's beautiful and packed with genuinely useful extras like the wireless charging pad.
The best L-shaped standing desk
The FlexiSpot E7L boasts a neat L-shaped design ideal for corners. In use, we found it performed very well in both home and work settings. Great if you've got the space.
The best premium standing desk
Hand-crafted and stunning in every possible way, the Grovemade Standing Desk elevates the workspace - and we couldn't love it more.
Best standing desk overall
Buy it if...
✅ You want a solid, stable standing desk. Well-priced and well-designed, we enjoyed our time with this sit-stand desk. It's stable, quiet, and basically ticks every box.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You need a cheap standing desk. There's not much we don't like about the E7, but it's not the cheapest and is more a mid-range pick.
Why we chose the FlexiSpot E7
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The Flexispot E7 has been our overall best standing desk for a few years now. It’s a fantastic desk for anyone and everyone, nicely bridging the gap between premium and accessible.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the Flexispot E7 feels flagship, but accessible. Not only does it look sharp, and come in quality materials, tabletop choices, and with some nice accessories, but it also has a spectacular lifting capacity of 355 lbs, it’s relatively quiet, and it’s very smooth. The keypad is one that I compare all other keypads to, it’s become the gold standard to me, and it’s highly functional.
I love that not only are there four programmable buttons, but having two of those already graphically noted to be stand and sit makes remembering what each one does so much easier. Thanks to the wood top design, you can add whatever desk accessories you may want to the top, or underneath, as this desk is phenomenal for attaching gear, drawers, and more.
For me, this desk looks and works great for the simple laptop-only setups all the way up to multi-monitor, all the accessories, and more gear than you now what to do with setups. .
Read our full FlexiSpot E7 review
Cheapest standing desk
Buy it if...
✅ You want a solid sit-stand desk on a budget: There are a lot of expensive desks out there, and then there is the FlexiSpot E1 / E2, offering the main feature-set at a fraction of the cost.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You have a hefty working setup: Part of what makes this a budget desk is that lifting capacity caps out at 187lb, which won’t be able to properly lift and lower workstations and multiple monitors.
Why we chose the FlexiSpot E2
The FlexiSpot E2 or E1 (depending on where in the world you may be - it's effectively the same desk) is a budget version of the beloved E7. It’s cheaper in every way, yet not cheap, which is excellent.
You’ll have some areas that are clearly not as nice, but in terms of specs and features, it’s what those on a budget should consider first. Sure, the single motor will be noticeably weaker than a higher-end model like the E7. However, I wouldn't expect any issues for most home office setups. It can’t lift as much, nor does it move as smoothly or with as much ease, but for the price, it's a top budget pick.
Unlike a random Amazon brand or even some of the other budget-centered companies, I've had excellent experiences testing all FlexiSpot standing desks, and I'd expect the same stability and build quality here. The 5-year warranty on the frame is a nice touch, too.
Best executive standing desk
Buy it if...
✅ You want an executive-level standing desk. With its long warranty, excellent build quality, and performance, this is perfect for professionals in the office.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You’re on a budget: If you’re on a budget, or if you are planning on spreading your funds across multiple office upgrades, this one may not make the most sense with its premium price-tag.
Why we chose the Herman Miller Fully Jarvis
The Herman Miller Fully Jarvis is an executive-class desk from a company of the same caliber. Herman Miller is known for its elite class of ergonomic chairs, the pinnacle of professional seating, and its desks match the same quality and craftsmanship.
This is not a budget desk, nor is it the most feature-rich, but it is of high quality, made from excellent materials, and functions very smoothly. Build quality proved excellent during our review, feeling solid and stable throughout use. And it only took us about 15 minutes to assemble. In use, it’s quiet, operated with a control paddle that simply needs a brush of the finger to begin elevation. In our experience, it's vastly superior to cheaper control panels with physical buttons. You can even upgrade the basic grommet for a powered version, which adds a socket, USB-A, and USB-C ports for charging devices.
Compared to other top standing desks, the Herman Miller Fully Jarvis feels refined, as if the company took the elements they do really well and made those great. It’s not the best for everyone, but for executives and professionals who want that polished look and feel (and brand recognition), this one is fantastic.
Read our full Herman Miller Fully Jarvis review
Best standing desk for small spaces
Buy it if...
✅ You need a fully-featured desk for a compact workspace: While it comes in a range of sizes, the 36in desktop model is one of the smallest full-sized standing desks we can find.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You need a multi-monitor or expansive workspace: The Branch Duo shines in it’s minimalist and smaller workspaces; for larger ones, there are other options to choose from.
Why we chose the Branch Duo
The Branch Duo is easily one of the best standing desks we’ve ever reviewed here - and with the svelte 36in model, it's one of the smallest I've found for a full-sized desk without going for a portable sit-stand option like the Humanscale FloatMicro).
The Duo is ideal for a smaller workspace, or for that minimalist set-up without compromising on features. I found this desk sleek and straightforward, but still has a highly functional drawer to help keep the top of your desk tidy.
After two months of continuous testing, I loved the minimalist style and high build quality. At this size, I would recommend the Duo for a simple laptop, tablet, monitor, or mini PC setup It’s not designed to withstand the weight capacity or stability needed for a full workstation or provide stability. What stands out to me here is the discrete control paddle, similar to that on the premium Herman Miller Fully Jarvis, rather than the big, button-filled control panels I’ve seen on other standing desks. Here, you’ll find a small screen and invisible buttons letting you adjust the height between 28 and 47.8in. The downside, however, is the paddle has no USB charging ports,
Alongside a range of sizes and styles, there are a handful of accessories available to accompany the Branch Duo, including a cable organizer and the aforementioned drawer for stashing stationery and mobile devices.
Read our full Branch Duo review
Best standing desk workstation
Buy it if...
✅ You want to build your own dream desk: If you are starting your first desk, or are upgrading every element, this one is a top choice due to all of the accessories you can choose from the point of sale, making a one-of-a-kind desk without any hassle.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You want something simple: While you could opt for a minimalist and straightforward desk, this desk shines in its ability to add power, accessories, cable management, and an array of desktop materials to your workspace
Why we chose the Uplift
There are many standing desks available, so finding one with a unique twist is not always easy. The Uplift V3, however, stands out as a desk with a thousand customizable options from the moment you order the desk. That hyper-customization allows you to create your perfect one-of-a-kind desk with all the gizmos and gadgets you may need (or simply want) to get the job done.
It exhibits excellent stability even when fully built out, as I have done with a standing desk. It can efficiently function as the base station for a massive and complex workstation, all the way down to a minimalist and straightforward option. For the cables you have, regardless of the type of desk you build, Uplift has a simple yet effective cable management solution.
All around, this desk remains the professional modular dream, allowing you to design around what you actually want and how you plan to use your unique workspace.
Read our full Uplift V3 review
Best standing desk for ergonomics
Buy it if...
✅ You want a more comfortable workspace: The highlight of the Vari electric standing desk is the waterfall-style ComfortEdge, which makes resting your wrists against it more ergonomically satisfying and less painful.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You have a lot of your desk: The maximum weight load for this unit is 220lb (and for the 72in desk, it's 180lb), so it's not the all-in-one for a mass workstation set-up.
Why we chose the Vari Desk with ComfortEdge
If you suffer from wrist pain while working at your desk, Vari have a clever solution for the problem. See, most of the desks I use have varying degrees of sharp angles on the front, right where my forearms or wrists rest when I use the desk.
The Vari Electric Standing Desk with ComfortEdge was the first I found that creatively solves that issue. Rather than just softening the 90-degree right angle on the top edge of their desktop, they intentionally cut away at the desk, making what was a solution to a pain point (literally) into a feature set.
You can comfortably rest your arms on the edge without any pain points, pressure points, or frustration. Sure, a wrist pad might alleviate the pain. But if you want that extra boost of ergonomic comfort, Vari takes an excellent desk and solves an issue many, including me, find frustrating. And with it, created a model that made it hard for me to go back to the more traditional flat-edged desk design.
Read our full Vari Electric Standing Desk with ComfortEdge review
Best standing desk for modern workspaces
Buy it if...
✅ You want a modern and sleek desk: This desk fits a “vibe” and that vibe is modern tech. It looks like the kind of desks you’d see featured with a trendy brand new iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard, and we mean that in the best way.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You're outside the US: Sadly, that’s a hard cutoff if you’re not a US Customer, but hopefully that’s not a problem forever. For example, in Canada, you can only get the non-Pro SmartDesk 5. The UK site only stocks the SmartDesk 2. Great desks, but where are the other models?
Why we chose the Autonomous SmartDesk 5 Pro
"Clean, well-designed, minimal, smooth, elegant and beautiful, and in this regard, it's one of the best standing desks I've tested," is how I described the Autonomous SmartDesk 5 Pro in my review.
This is a desk for the modern professional in the modern workspace. It features a convenient cable tray to organize a few cables. It comes with power that can be mounted in its tray. I love the soft and smooth material of the desktop, as well as its look, but for some, the control panel is just a hair too far to the middle of the desk, cutting off otherwise usable desktop space.
In fact, the Autonomous SmartDesk 5 became so popular so fast, the early model I received evolved into the Pro model, and subsequently, the company introduced the more functional SmartDesk 5 (48in) and broader SmartDesk 5 Pro Expanse (70.5in), each priced accordingly.
All in all, this desk is beautiful, and if you aren’t looking for a classic-style desk with a wood top, this one should absolutely be one of the highest considerations in your browsing for a new desk. So long as you're in the US - bafflingly, it's unavailable elsewhere right now.
Read our full Autonomous SmartDesk 5 Pro standing desk review
Best standing desk for gaming
Buy it if...
✅ You want integrated power and cable management: While fitting the gamer vibe, this desk shines most in the fact that it has power running through the desk leg, keeping cables tucked away so you won’t kick them while gaming.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You want a classic wood desktop: The Secretlab Magnus Pro is designed around a large metal frame and desktop with a desk pad. If you prefer a classic wood top design, other options may be a better fit for your workspace.
Why we chose the Secretlab Magnus Pro
When it comes to the best standing desk for gamers, there’s no doubt in my mind that the Secretlab Magnus Pro fits the bill. This is an all-black, all-metal desk that comes equipped with a full-length cable management tray and, interestingly, a control panel neatly built into the tabletop itself.
Beyond the all-metal construction, the focus is on integrated power and data cabling through the leg to prevent cables hanging down. There's also a built in cable tray in the back of the desk with flip-up access, an easy-to-add lighting package, and interchangable desk pads to change the colors and feel of the desk entirely. Standing at 6’2”, I found the maximum height of 49.2in ideal for taller users compared to other desks. And it’s plenty large and functional enough to accommodate both work and play setups.
If you enjoy the gamer vibe or simply prefer sturdy steel structures with rigidity to support a multi-monitor setup and more, or if you dislike seeing cables dangling from your desk, this is a fantastic option.
Read our full Secretlab Magnus Pro review
Best standing desk with four legs
Buy it if...
✅ You want greater stability: With its four-legged design, we found this offers all the extra stability you'd expect from a more traditionally styled office desk.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You don't really need a four-legged height-adjustable desk: For most home offices (and even offices), the E7 is still ideal - the Plus model is one for those who really want the extra lifting weight or the classic style.
Why we chose the FlexiSpot E7 Plus
Want a more stable workspace and a more classically styled sit-stand desk? Then the E7 Plus is a great pick for the price. The only other one that comes close is the Branch Four-Leg (see my review here), but it's not so widely available and costs more.
The E7 Plus is a spin on the excellent E7 standing desk, adding a more sturdy frame with both the classic T- or C-shaped legs. In my own tests, I was pleased to find it delivered on its rock-solid stability, and even boasts smooth height adjustments.
The lifting capacity is some of the best I have seen, and the four legs have become a design statement more than something that serves a functional purpose. FlexiSpot also offers the Odin (E7Q Pro) if you need something even more substantial. Still, the E7 Plus combines the reliability and rugged good looks of the Odin with the ever-popular E7 to create a perfect middle ground.
Read our full FlexiSpot E7 Plus review
Best standing desk with drawer
Buy it if...
✅ You want a standing desk with storage and some excellent extras: Alongside the storage space for stationery and laptops, this sit-stand desk also features wireless charging pad.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You need deep drawers. There's only one drawer here, and it's not as deep as you'll find on traditional desks, with room for laptops and notebooks, but nothing too thick.
Why we chose the FlexiSpot Q8
While the FlexiSpot Q8 isn't the only standing desk with storage built in - the Branch Duo, for example, offers the same - I particularly like this model for the extra features and build quality on offer.
For one thing, it comes with the option of a bamboo desktop, much like the E7, which gives it a beautiful look in the workspace. As part of this, there's also a wireless charging pad for your phone, alongside the charging ports on the control panel.
In operation, it's smooth and swift when lifting and lowering, working beautifully throughout the review period. You'll find the usual four-button control panel, which is programmable. And in the main, it felt robust in use, with only a slight wobble on the carpeted flooring. Lifting capacity is good for a desk this size, and when placing two heavy speakers, a synthesizer, a laptop, and assorted computer accessories on top, there was no sense that they added any strain to the desk or affected operation. The drawer, like most you'll find on standing desks, is simple and relatively shallow (we measured it at 26.22 x 12.20 x 1.97 in). It's ideal for stowing a laptop or stationery, and helped retain the overall slim, stylish feel.
Overall, the Q8 is a great desk that's packed with some genuinely useful features - and while the build quality isn't the best at this price-point, it's a beautiful design with solid performance.
Editor's note: If you prefer a cheaper standing desk with a drawer, check out our FlexiSpot Comhar review (confusingly, it’s also known as both the Comhar and the EW8 Comhar, too, but they're all practically the same).
Read our full FlexiSpot Q8 review
Best L-shaped standing desk
Buy it if...
✅ You want maximum space: For those who need a massive workspace, rather than combining several workspaces together that don’t match or work together, grab an E7L to get the best of both worlds.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You don’t have a lot of space: If your workspace where this desk will go is not expansive, or intentionally measured, then you may have some issues making this desk work simply by size.
Why we chose the FlexiSpot E7L
If you’ve the space for it, the FlexiSpot E7L Pro is a great L-shaped standing desk for corners. It’s a spin on the classic E7 desk, which we proceeded to test in both the home office and in a classroom. It shone in both.
For those who need a massive desktop for whatever reason, the FlexiSpot E7L is a brilliant option. It takes what’s great about the E7, which has been our top-rated desk since we first tested it shortly after its release, and essentially combines two of them to make an L. It’s stable, reliable, quiet, and still robust.
What really impressed us during tests was just how smooth the elevation was. That’s because the E7L boasts three motors, and we experienced no stuttering or uneven lifts at all. This desk raises and lowers just as smoothly as the standard E7. And you have plenty of room to add drawers, desk shelves, speakers, monitors, organizers, desk mats, and the works, or you can leave it expansive for large drawings, diagrams, lots of papers.
Read our full FlexiSpot E7L review
Best premium standing desk
Buy it if...
✅ You want a hand-crafted workspace, not just a desk: The Grovemade desk is an elegant all-in-one workspace that looks stunning and operates smoothly. There's no other sit-stand desk quite like it.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You want to choose your desktop size: Right now, Grovemade has a single desktop size - and getting that outside of the US can be an issue.
Why we chose the Grovemade Standing Desk
I've saved the best for last - it won't be for everyone, and it's hard to get outside the US, but the Grovemade standing desk is an incredibly well-built and hand-crafted standing workstation.
I can accurately say that I know a thing or two about standing desks. I’ve been professionally testing them on a broad scale for almost a decade now in one way or another. I have seen plenty, I have used many, and I have rotated through the desks I primarily use, just as MKBHD rotates his daily driver phone. For those of you not in the tech bubble, it's more than some of you rotate your shoes or wash your sheets - you get the idea. With all that being said, Grovemade, the company that made it big with their famous desk shelf, knocked it out of the park with their Standing Desk. It takes on a class of its own, with an entire drawer unit that slides out and becomes integral to how the desk is built, designed, and functions, it has cable management in a way I have never seen and now want everywhere, and its quality is unmatched.
The attention to detail, the subtle features, the cable tray, the slit in the desktop for clean management, the pairing with the desk shelf and the hyper organized, and wildly useful tray make this desk a whole new class of “workstation” not just “standing desk” to call this simply a desk that changes height would be insulting to the craftsmanship and beauty of this desk.
Read our full Grovemade Standing Desk review
Best standing desks compared
Model | Height range | Warranty |
|---|---|---|
22.8 - 48.4in / 58 - 123cm | 15 years | |
28.1 - 45.6in / 71.37 - 115.82 cm | 5 years | |
22.9 - 51in / 58.2 - 129.5cm | 15 years | |
28 - 47.3in / 71 - 120cm | 10 years | |
21.6 - 47.7in / 54.86 - 121.16cm | 15 years | |
21.6 - 47.7in / 54.86 - 121.16cm | Lifetime | |
29.5 - 48.5in / 75 - 123cm | 10 years | |
25.6 - 49.2in / 65 - 125cm | 5 years | |
25.2 - 50.8in / 64 - 129cm | 10 years | |
24 - 49.6 in / 61 - 126 cm | 7 years | |
25 - 50in / 63.5 - 128.5cm | 15 years | |
25.25 - 50.5in / 64.1 - 128.3cm | 5 years |
Best standing desks: Also tested
Not every sit-stand desk can make it into the top round-up, but these ones we've tested out deserve an honorable mention.
Stylish, stable, and pretty cheap - it might not be the only standing desk with drawers here, but this is a relatively inexpensive option that has all the core features most people will need.
Read our full FlexiSpot Comhar review
This is a superb sit-stand gaming desk with a monitor rail system that, for those that need it, gives it the edge over cheaper rivals. After testing, we said "it’s easy to recommend the Corsair Platform:4 if you have the budget. It's small, stylish, constructed from quality materials, and doesn't skimp on features.
Read our full Corsair Platform:4 review
The Ergonofis Shift is a well-made, well-designed standing desk. The cable management is stellar, and one of our favorites for those looking to keep workspaces tidy thanks to its excellent cable management solution.
Read our full Ergonofis Shift review
Stable, sturdy, and near-silent in operation, the E9 (also known as the E9B-UK) proved to be a well-made standing desk with a good weight load capacity. A good, solid all-rounder.
Read our full FlexiSpot E9 review
The Worland from Fezibo is an elegant L-shaped standing desk that offers loads of benefits, including triple leg motors for smooth, precise height adjustments and good storage options.
Read our full Fezibo Worland review
One of the most unique height-adjustable desks we've ever tested, the Lillipad is an electric standing desk that’s completely foldable for easy storage (and extra portability). A great performer and space-saver.
Read our full Lillipad Pro review
Standing desk terms you need to know before you buy
Height range
This is the adjustable height that a desk spans. Typically, this is from around 28in to 48in, which makes the range suitable for most users. For those standing at 5'5”, set the height for around 39 inches. For users 6’ tall, 44 inches will be the approximate height for comfort.
Cable management
Not every standing desk has cable management storage solutions, but as with traditional office desks, some include desk grommets, letting you thread cables through the tabletop, while others have under-desk trays for storing power bricks and computer cables.
Memory preset
Most desks with a full control panel feature a three- or four-memory preset. This lets you store specific heights for standing and sitting. So, at the push of a button, the desk will automatically elevate or descend to this height without further user input.
Weight limit
The weight limit, sometimes called the load or lifting capacity, is the maximum a standing desk can carry while remaining operational. If you’re planning on loading up the tabletop with multiple monitors, laptops, and computers, then choose a higher weight limit. In general, I see lifting capacities of around 250 - 350lb, but there are plenty of exceptions.
Anti-collision detection
A feature you’ll find on just about all the best standing desks, this technology detects objects or people obstructing descent, and will automatically stop lowering to prevent crushing them.
Motors
While you can get manual (or hand-cranked) height-adjustable desks, electric models use motors. What you want to check for is how many your chosen desk has. The more motors, the faster and smoother the movement will be. Most standing desks have a dual-motor design. However, cheaper units often have a single motor, while larger models, like L-shaped standing desks, will have three.
Best standing desks: Frequently asked questions
How long should you use a sit-stand desk?
As a general rule, switch positions every thirty minutes. There are loads of methods out there, but really, the trick to really benefitting from a standing desk is just balancing both the sitting and the standing. Don't spend too long in either position.
Are standing desks good for you and are they worth it?
TechRadar's former Senior Fitness & Wearables Writer, Stephen Warwick, explains how to enjoy the benefits of a standing desk.
“The trick is to balance both sitting and standing. It’s best not to stay in one position for too long. After all, if you stay seated for too long, it carries risks of CVD such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. So, make sure you move often during your work day. For anyone using a standing desk for two or more hours, I’d recommend getting an under-desk treadmill, so you can continue staying active throughout the day. Extra support for health and mobility may also help improve your workplace routine, like ergonomic office chairs, smartwatches with movement reminders, and the best fitness trackers.”
For more on this topic, we've studied the reports in-depth in our guide Sitting vs. standing for work: we take a comprehensive look at what the science says.
How high should a standing desk be?
The best height for a standing desk depends on your own height and stance. When using a sit-stand desk in the elevated position, your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle, with arms and wrists flat and resting comfortably on the desk. In this position, you should be able to stand upright without hunching over.
If you’re around 5’5”, your standing desk should be set to around 39 inches.
If you’re over 6’, the desk should be elevated to 44 inches.
For the best fit, measure the length from your feet to the crook of your elbow - this will show you the best standing desk height for maximum comfort and ergonomics.
What are the different types of standings desks?
Fixed or non-adjustable standing desks come at a predetermined height and don’t have the option to revert to a traditional desk for sitting down.
Electric standing desks, like the ones above, are very simple to operate with the option to alter between a standard seated desk and one for standing - all at the push of a button.
Mechanical standing desks function the same as their electric counterparts, but will need to be manually cranked to reach your desired height.
Pneumatic standing desks use gas-powered canisters to allow for rising and lowering the desk, similar to those often found in height-adjustable office chairs.
Exercise desks are a niche range of office furniture that let you workout while you work - for example, including a treadmill or bike attached to the desk area.
Desk converters or risers are a separate device that can be placed on top of a standard desk, letting you put your monitor and peripherals at eye-level when standing.
How do you reset a standing desk?
Sometimes, you may see an error code while using your standing desk that requires a reset. We’ve come across this a few times when reviewing some models. Often, it’s because the standing desk has been used or ‘overworked’ too much in a short space of time, and the 'error' is to protect the unit.
For example, in our FlexiSpot E9 review, we received the error code E01 - this is the desk's overcurrent protection, which lets the unit operate for 2 minutes, but requires an 18-minute rest after this. In most cases, simply unplugging the desk from the mains and waiting a few minutes will fix the problem (yes, it’s a case of “Have you tried turning it off and on again?”).
How long will a standing desk last?
The longevity of a standing desk depends on the materials and quality used to construct it. Generally speaking, a good-quality option should last between five and ten years with regular use. The lifespan may be extended significantly if a higher grade of material is used, such as maple or oak, instead of particleboard.
Based on the warranties most commonly offered by standing desk manufacturers, I'd expect a standing-up desk to last between five and fifteen years of regular use. With regular care and maintenance, a good quality choice should provide many years of service before needing to be replaced.
How we test the best standing desks
My team of expert reviewers have tested and reviewed a wide range of office and home office furniture, including the best office desks and best office chairs based on over fifty in-depth reviews. When it comes to standing desks, we prioritize real-world settings and tests - in home offices, businesses, and classrooms - where these desks will actually be used. Each desk is used by the team for a minimum of a week (but usually, a month or more).
These are the four key areas we review…
Assembly
We look at how easy each desk is to put together, clarity of instructions, and whether all necessary components and tools are included in the box. Some sit-stand desks can be assembled in under 15 minutes, others we’ve tried can take double or triple that time.
Size & style
We assess the overall design and build quality of all stand-up desks, including materials used for the frame and desk. As part of this, we’ll look at the tabletop sizes available, as well as the overall height adjustment range and stability in use.
Features
We’ll test out all features available. This includes anti-collision detection, USB and wireless charging, cable management, and storage. We want to know how well they work and where there’s room for improvement.
Operation
No standing desk review would be complete with a full evaluation of how the desk operates under real=world conditions. As part of this, we explore the speed and smoothness of rising and lowering the desk, alongside the noise levels in use.
For more about our test and review process in our guide How we test standing desks.
For more standing desk essentials, we've compared the best standing desk mats, best standing desk converters, and the best under-desk treadmills.
