The Best Standing Desks for Elevating Your Workspace

Don’t just sit there! Learn everything you need to know about these workplace wonders that may help you stay healthy on the job.

By Glenda Taylor | Updated Feb 25, 2022 3:48 PM

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The Best Standing Desk for Offices and Home Offices

Photo: istockphoto.com

Sitting all day while working can get uncomfortable and it isn’t ideal for your health. For fitness—or even just for a change of pace—you might consider switching to a height-adjustable desk, also known as a standing desk. The best standing desk options are often cleverly designed and well constructed, allowing you to stand when you like and sit when you like, all while remaining productive.

Ahead, read our top tips on choosing a quality model, and don’t miss our list of top-favorite picks among the best standing desk options out there on the market.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Vari 60-by-30-Inch Electric Standing Desk
  2. RUNNER-UP: FlexiSpot E7 Electric Standing Desk
  3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Siducal Mobile Standing Desk
  4. BEST PNEUMATIC: Realspace Magellan Pneumatic Standing Desk
  5. BEST L-SHAPED: Fezibo L-Shaped Corner Standing Desk
  6. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: ApexDesk Elite Pro Series Standing Desk
  7. BEST CONVERTER: Stand Steady Flexpro Electric Standing Desk
  8. BEST FOR SMALL SPACES: Vari 48-by-30-Inch Electric Standing Desk
  9. BEST LARGE DESKTOP: Fezibo Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk
Best Standing Desk Roundup

Photo: istockphoto.com

How We Chose the Best Standing Desks

We researched the most sought-after standing desks in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their height adjustability, size and shape, materials used, weight capacity, versatility, portability, and other special features included by select brands.

While searching for the best models on the market, the electric standing desks were among the most popular for their ease of adjustment as well as programmable height settings. While not as popular, the manual option listed allows for precise height adjustment, but requires hands-on work to alter. No matter the type, this selection prioritizes variety with rectangular and L-shaped desks featured, each a different size to accommodate your spatial needs and current office furniture.

As for durability, each of the above desks is made with strong materials like industrial and commercial-grade steel providing weight capacities of 40 to 235 pounds. Also included in our above products is a cable management tray, wheels for portability, anti-collision technology, a keyboard tray, and quiet operation while adjusting the height.

Our Top Picks

The best standing desks are available in many sizes and designs, are made of durable materials for a high weight capacity, have height adjustment, and are easy to maintain. Some other features included in our recommended models include programmable height settings, wheels, and desk hooks.

Best Overall

The Best Standing Desk Option: Vari Electric Standing Desk
Photo: Amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 25 inches high (minimum) by 60 inches wide by 28.87 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 25 inches to 50.5 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 200 pounds

Pros

  • Quiet motorized construction will not cause any ambient noise or strain when adjusting
  • 4 programmable height preferences available; ranges from 25 inches to a maximum height of 50.5 inches
  • 60-inch-wide by 28.87-inch-deep work surface can accommodate multiple monitors or desktop accessories
  • Steel and laminate construction is durable and long lasting

Cons

  • Some assembly required upon delivery; may take some time to put together
  • Not portable; may not be ideal for some residential or commercial purposes
  • Monitor holder not included; needs to be purchased separately

The quiet motor on the Vari standing desk allows workers to raise and lower the work surface at the touch of a button without distracting others. This motorized, stable standing desk adjusts from 25 inches in height for a sitting work surface and tops out at a maximum height of 50.5 inches.

Workers can program four favorite sitting or standing heights—from any height between those numbers—into the desk’s digital memory for quick adjustments. The work surface measures 60 inches wide by 28.87 inches deep, offering ample room for a keyboard, a laptop, and one or two monitors.

The frame is constructed from steel for stability and durability, and the work surface features a sleek white laminate top that resists stains and wipes clean with a damp rag. The easy-to-assemble desk can be paired with several accessories, including monitor arms and standing mats.

Get the Vari 60-by-30-inch standing desk at Amazon or Vari.

Runner-up

The Best Standing Desks Options: FlexiSpot E7 Electric Standing Desk
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 22.8 inches high (minimum) by 48 inches wide by 24 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 22.8 to 48.8 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 355 pounds

Pros

  • Made with a bamboo tabletop; comes in multiple sizes and shapes to fit any space
  • Holds up to 355 pounds of large monitors, laptops, and office supplies
  • Comes with an LED touch-screen keypad, built-in memory function, child lock, and a USB port

Cons

  • Requires a full assembly process before use; no drill or Phillips-head screwdriver included (required)

Simple yet ergonomic, this FlexiSpot standing desk is perfect for use in the office and at home. This desk is made with a beautiful 0.7-inch thick bamboo tabletop that comes in a straight or curved design of 22.8 to 48.8 inches high by 48 inches wide by 24 inches deep. This 69-pound unit also comes with either white, gray, or black carbon steel legs in a T-frame design.

For user-friendliness, the dual-motor standing desk includes a premium LED touch-screen keypad to adjust the height, with the given height shown on the keypad’s digital display. It also includes a programmable memory function, a child lock, and a USB port for charging smartphones and other devices. Plus, there is a cable tray for organizing various cords. The only downside to this unit is that it must be fully assembled and it requires a Phillips screwdriver or drill (not included).

What our tester says: Stephanie Cronk, executive editor of product reviews at Bob Vila, notes the following about this standing desk: “The FlexiSpot E7 standing desk has transformed my workday. The ability to go from sitting to standing has helped with back and shoulder pain. I particularly love the ability to save my two favorite heights for easy transitioning. The FlexiSpot is well made and durable, I have no doubt that it will last for years to come.”

Get the FlexiSpot standing desk at FlexiSpot.

Best Bang For The Buck

The Best Standing Desk Option: SIDUCAL Mobile Stand Up Desk with Wheels
Photo: Amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Manual
  • Dimensions: 27.5 inches high (minimum) by 21.65 inches wide by 21.65 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 27.5 inches to 45.3 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 66 pounds (per platform)

Pros

  • 2 desktop platforms; the lower platform is adjustable for sitting flat or on an angle
  • 4 built-in wheels make this option portable; suitable for office spaces
  • Comes in multiple colorways to match a residential or commercial space’s current fixtures
  • Lightweight construction can be maneuvered easily or transported if necessary

Cons

  • May be difficult to adjust the height; takes a learning curve
  • Limited desk space compared to some other models on the market

If you need a portable sit-stand desk that can be rolled across an office space, this Siducal desk may be the option for you. This 23-pound stable standing desk is light enough to move easily with its four built-in wheels and sturdy steel construction. The higher desktop space lays flat for a laptop or lamp, while the lower desk surface can be adjusted up to a 45-degree angle and has a barrier strip to hold up paperwork and pens.

The height options range from 27.5 inches to a maximum height of 45.3 inches while supporting over 66 pounds on either desktop surface. But, there is no motor and the height must be adjusted manually with the four knobs located on each leg. Coming in either white or black, this desk is made for those who require ample portability from a desk or have small spaces to work with.

Get the Siducal standing desk at Amazon.

.best Pneumatic

The Best Standing Desks Options: Realspace Magellan Pneumatic Standing Desk
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs 

  • Type: Pneumatic
  • Dimensions: 30 inches high (minimum) by 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 30 inches to 43 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 200 pounds

Pros

  • Pneumatic lift-assist makes it easy to lift or lower the tabletop between 30 and 43 inches high
  • Large 60-inch-wide by 30-inch-deep workspace can accommodate a lot of accessories; weight capacity of 200 pounds
  • Scratch-resistant tabletop and alloy-steel legs provide excellent durability

Cons

  • Has a 50-pound weight capacity when being adjusted up or down

Those who want a simple standing desk without any bells and whistles can rely on this model from Realspace. Made with alloy steel, this electric desk ranges from 30 to 43 inches in height and can be adjusted with a pneumatic lift-assist, making it easy to lift or lower the desktop. Simply lift the lever and lift the tabletop upwards or downwards as needed.

The Realspace standing desk is capable of holding up to 50 pounds of desk materials including monitors, keyboards, and other desk accessories. This standing desk comes in neutral gray and black to match most standard office spaces, and the 60-inch-wide by 30-inch-deep scratch-resistant tabletop comes with an ample amount of workspace. However, the one downside to this model is that it only has a 50-pound weight capacity when the height is being adjusted, so some items will need to be removed every time the desk is moved up or down.

What our tester says: Becky Helzer, a copy editor at Bob Vila, notes the following about this standing desk, “The Realspace Magellan standing desk has served as my work surface for 2 years. Although I use it exclusively as a standing desk, it has a pneumatic lift control that will convert it to a standard desk height if desired. It’s also easy to make very small adjustments to the height to suit the user and provide the most ergonomic experience. The steel frame gives the desk a sturdy feel, and the gray desktop is stylish and scratch-resistant. Although it’s a little pricey, it’s an investment that has served me well and is built to last. Plus, I appreciate having the ability to be able to stand for a good part of the day for better health.”

Get the Realspace standing desk at Amazon.

Best L-shaped

The Best Standing Desks Options: Fezibo L-Shaped Corner Standing Desk
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 28.7 inches high (minimum) by 48 inches wide by 23.6 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 28.7 inches to 48 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 176 pounds

Pros

  • Space-saving design fits into a corner to save space in a residential or commercial office
  • Built-in riser stand for added storage or a place for a computer monitor
  • Heavy-duty steel construction is durable and capable of holding up to 176 pounds of desktop items
  • 2 desk hooks and cable management tray included for organization

Cons

  • Some assembly is required when delivered
  • More expensive than comparable options on the market
  • Not portable; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences

Those short on square footage may find the Fezibo corner standing desk a wise choice. This L-shaped model fits neatly into the corner of a cubicle or home office to provide an ample work surface without hogging floor space. The two long back sides of the Fezibo electric standing desk each measure 37.4 inches, and the two nearest edges are both 23.6 inches long. The desktop is 19.7 inches deep at each end and 23.6 inches deep in the center. This gives the worker plenty of room for a double-monitor setup, a keyboard, a mouse, and other items.

This space-saver Fezibo electric standing desk has a motorized lift that raises and lowers the desk between 28.7 inches and 48 inches and allows workers to program three height presets for quick adjustment.This desk also comes with a built-in riser stand workers can use to hold a laptop or potted plant, and there’s open space beneath for papers, files, or notebooks.

For even more storage, two hooks and a cable management tray rest under the desktop surface. The frame is made of heavy-duty steel to support up to 176 pounds, and the smooth laminate top resists stains and wipes clean with a damp rag. Some minimal assembly is required.

Get the Fezibo L-shaped standing desk at Amazon.

Best Heavy-duty

The Best Standing Desk Option: ApexDesk Elite Series Height Adjustable Standing Desk
Photo: Amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 29 inches high (minimum) by 71 inches wide by 27.6 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 29 inches to 48 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 235 pounds

Pros

  • Sturdy construction; 1-inch thick ergo-shaped medium-density fiberboard (MDF) core can hold up to 235 pounds
  • Scratch-proof desktop surface is durable enough for everyday use
  • Fits up to 2 people at a time; perfect for commercial spaces
  • 4 programmable height preferences available; can be adjusted with the dual-motor lifting system

Cons

  • Expensive price point compared to other options on this list
  • Can be tricky to assemble; usually takes 45 minutes to finish putting together
  • Heavyweight construction is not portable or transportable

The oversize 71-inch-wide by 33-inch-long work surface of the ApexDesk Elite Pro Series standing desk boasts a sturdy frame made with a 1-inch thick ergo-shaped MDF core and a scratch-resistant high-pressure laminatedesktop. This desk is available in a number of colors, including red cherry and American walnut.

This sturdy desk has enough room for one or two workstations, multiple monitors, desk lamps, and other items—up to 235 pounds. The ApexDesk adjusts quickly and smoothly from 29 inches to 48 inches high at the touch of a button with the help of the dual-motor lifting system.

Like some other standing desks, this large desk features four programmable memory presets for quick height adjustments. For those who prefer a smaller option, ApexDesk also offers a 60-inch-wide by 27-inch-long desk in a variety of colors. Plus, this model comes in multiple desktop sizes depending on user preferences.

Get the ApexDesk standing desk at Amazon.

Best Converter

The Best Standing Desk Option: Stand Steady Flexpro Power Electric Standing Desk
Photo: Amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 5.25 inches high (minimum) by 39.25 inches wide by 28 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 5.25 inches to 19.25 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 45 pounds

Pros

  • 2-tiered workstation provides a lot of table space for monitors, keyboards, and accessories
  • Adjustable height options operated with electric motor; ranges from 5.25 inches to 19.25 inches high
  • Easy push-button operation makes adjusting easy and fast
  • Compact design fits on most current desks or countertops; folds down completely when not in use

Cons

  • Heavyweight construction; may be difficult for some to carry

Want to add sit-stand capability to an existing desk? The Stand Steady Flexpro electric standing desk is an electric adjustable standing desk converter with plenty of workspace and weight capacity and comes in multiple desktop sizes depending on an individual user’s preference.

The two-tiered work surface includes a 39.25-inch-wide by 20.75-inch-deep upper section that can handily accommodate two monitors and a laptop and a 39.25-inch-wide keyboard tier that’s 4.25 inches high by 9.5 inches deep. It adjusts between 5.25 inches and 19.25 inches in height and offers a 45-pound weight capacity.

Like some other standing desk converters, the smooth and easy push-button operation allows users to stop at any height within its range. This mechanism is also quiet so as not to disturb fellow workers. The standing desk converter comes ready to use straight out of the box, with no assembly necessary.

Get the Stand Steady standing desk at Amazon.

Best For Small Spaces

The Best Standing Desks Options: Vari 48-by-30-Inch Electric Standing Desk
Photo: amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 25 inches high (minimum) by 48 inches wide by 30 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 25 inches to 50.5 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 220 pounds

Pros

  • Memory button saves up to 3 desired height positions; can be adjusted hands-free with a motorized construction
  • Commercial-grade steel and heavy-duty laminate construction can hold up to 220 pounds
  • Compact size can fit in most commercial or residential office spaces

Cons

  • Small desk space offered; can only accommodate 1 user at a time
  • Pricey option compared to some other models on the market

When office space is at a premium, a smaller standing desk is just the ticket. Workers can smoothly raise and lower this Vari electric standing desk to any height between 25 and 50.5 inches. When the desired height is reached, a tap of the “Memory” button programs that height as one of three favorites that a user can select from the keypad.

Made from commercial-grade steel and featuring a heavy-duty laminate desk surface, the Vari desk holds up as stable and durable. Its 48-inch-wide by 30-inch-deep work surface is smaller than many models, yet it can support up to 220 pounds—enough weight to hold multiple monitors, a laptop, keyboard, and other office accessories that need to stay close at hand on your desk space.

Get the Vari 48-by-30-inch standing desk at Amazon or Vari.

Best for Small Spaces

The Best Standing Desk Option: Vari Electric Adjustable Sit Stand Desk
Photo: Amazon.com

Product Specs

  • Type: Motorized
  • Dimensions: 28.3 inches high (minimum) by 63 inches wide by 24 inches deep
  • Height adjustability: 28.3 inches to 45 inches high
  • Weight capacity: 176 pounds

Pros

  • Large desk space that fits up to 2 people; ideal for commercial environments
  • Industrial-grade steel construction can hold up to 176 pounds of desk materials
  • Anti-collision technology prevents injury or breakage when obstacles are in the way during lifting or lowering
  • Cable management tray and desk hooks included for organization

Cons

  • Takes up to 45 minutes to assemble upon delivery
  • Limited weight capacity compared to other large options

This large Fezibo standing desk requires minimal assembly and features a 63-inch-wide by 24-inch-deep work surface, which will easily accommodate multiple monitors, keyboards, lamps, or a workspace for an additional person. To ensure all of your objects are safe, this desk can hold up to 176 pounds of weight.

The Fezibo electric standing desk features a one-touch motorized raise and lower function. Available heights range from 28.3 to 45 inches. The frame is made of industrial-grade steel for stability, and workers can program three favorite heights into the digital keypad for quick adjustments.

For everyday use, this model comes with a cable management tray, a set of two desk hooks, and anti-collision technology to prevent the desk from colliding with an object like a chair or filing cabinet when declining in height. The desk also comes in multiple colorways to match your current office furniture.

Get the Fezibo electric standing desk at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks



What to Consider When Choosing a Standing Desk 

When looking for a new standing desk to replace your traditional desk, shoppers must consider the height, weight capacity, shape and size, and more. Read on to learn more about what to consider when buying a standing desk.

Types of Standing Desks

Just as endless sitting can be detrimental to your health, standing for long periods can be hard on your legs, lower back, and feet. The solution, experts say, is to frequently alternate between standing and sitting—which is why there are several types of standing desks available.
Stand-Only Desks
A stand-only desk is handy if you also have a separate traditional desk nearby, but if you work at a PC, it can be bothersome to move your monitor and keyboard every time you want to switch positions. Stand-only desks are best suited to busy offices with multiple workstations where employees freely move from one area to another without interrupting productivity. Prices typically vary by material, with premium hardwood models at the high end.

Sit-Stand Desks

A sit-stand desk is adjustable, either manually or by a motor. Budget-friendly manual models adjust upward and downward by turning a crank or by loosening a knob and then pulling or pushing the desk surface to the desired position.

An electric sit-stand desk often comes with presets so you needn’t fuss to suit your height every time you change. Convenient adjustment comes at a cost: Manually adjusted sit-stand desks typically cost less than motorized versions. Perhaps most expensive are executive models that incorporate bells and whistles like integrated Wi-Fi.
Sit-Stand Conversion Desks
A sit-stand conversion desk is used in combination with an existing desk. These height-adjustable standing desks are extremely popular because they let you keep your existing desk, with all your pens, paperclips, and other office supplies at your fingertips, with the added benefit of an adjustable desk surface. Conversion desks may be manual or motorized, the latter being the more expensive.

Shape

These desks come in two main types: motorized models with entire surfaces that raise and lower at the touch of a button, and smaller desktop units placed on an existing surface that the user must adjust manually to the preferred height.

  • Rectangular standing desks are one of the most common types as they resemble traditional sit-down computer desks. These options come in multiple sizes for small or large offices or homes and are ideal for those that only have a few items on their desk at a time. As is the case with most rectangular tables or desks, it can be hard to reach items on the far edge of the desk.
  • Curved standing desks are one of the most ergonomic options as they add more room to move, work, and type. The curve in the front of the desk makes it easy to reach items or your computer easily while also keeping your torso and chest from pressing on the desk’s edge. Suitable for those that spend hours working at a desk, these picks also prioritize wrist movement and comfort and usually hold a few items with ease.
  • L-shaped/corner standing desks typically offer the most space with a left and right surface that form an “L” shape, providing ample arm and elbow space. These options are ideal for those that work with multiple tools or computers and need the extra room. While it may be harder to reach objects in the corner or far edges of the right or left surface, L-shaped/corner standing desks are space-savers and can be placed in the corner of a room.
  • U-shaped standing desks are considered to be the most ergonomic option, but they do take up a lot of space compared to other shapes. These designs have 3 surfaces that form a “U” shape, and the user is meant to sit within the curve of that shape. For those that keep many accessories, computers, tools, or other items on their desk, this type offers the most desk space and keeps pressure off your torso and wrists as you work. But, with more objects there is more weight, so motorized height adjustment may be more ideal as manual lifts may cause objects to wobble or fall.

Workspace

Workers require various desktop sizes, and sit stand desk surfaces are available in the same dimensions as many traditional work desks. Minimum desk depth is usually no less than 24 inches from front to back, and the minimum width is generally at least 36 inches wide. The exception is for desktop risers, also known as standing desk converters, that bring sit-stand flexibility to a conventional desk.

Desk risers may be smaller because the user can still use the existing desktop beneath the riser for storing letters and folders. On the larger end, standing desk work surfaces can be as deep as 36 inches and as wide as 72 inches or more, making them capable of supporting multiple monitors or functioning as multiworker desks.

Height Adjustability 

At their lowest position, most traditional desks range from about 28 to 30 inches in height, and workers typically use adjustable-height office chairs to reach a comfortable sitting position. It’s a different story when standing up, so the best sit stand desk will feature various adjustable heights, typically between 28 inches (sitting height) up to 52 inches (standing height).

The most comfortable and productive work surface height for most users is generally at or just below the user’s elbow when standing. Some electric standing desks have a “favorites” function that allows users to save a few heights in the desk’s memory, typically via a keypad, for quick adjustment.

Weight Capacity

A standing desk’s load capacity indicates how much weight the work surface can hold and still raise and lower effectively. In general, a sit stand desk will hold between 80 and 200 pounds; some oversize models hold even more.

The weight capacity will vary based on the quality of some electric standing desks or the power of the springs on manual-lift models, but a good sit stand desk should be able to support a monitor, a keyboard, and/or a laptop, plus have additional capacity and room for other small office items.

Additional Features

Select standing desks come with a few additional features that save space, keep you organized, and make working more comfortable.

  • Material: The work surface of most standing desks is made of relatively lightweight materials, such as laminated fiberboard or plywood, while the frame typically features durable steel. The color and finish of the worktop can complement other wood features or architectural trim in an office. Similarly, some high-end models have a thick glass work surface for a sleek, chic look.
  • Storage: Standing desks generally don’t offer much extra storage in the way of drawers or PC holders, as this would add weight and possibly affect the movement of the elevating mechanism. That said, you can also find attached keyboard trays, monitor shelving, and small drawers.
  • Cable management: For those that need a monitor, lamp, or charging cord on their standing desk, cable management can be a challenge. Some desks come with a cable management tray or hooks to organize wiring and keep it hidden. This is especially helpful if your desk has built-in wheels to avoid running over cables and wires.
  • Portability: While most sit stand desks are 30 to 50 pounds, some options are portable enough to move across a room or office with built-in lockable wheels while others can be folded and brought to a job site.

FAQs

Now that you’ve learned some of the important factors to consider when choosing the best standing desk, questions may still remain. Additional information about choosing and caring for your new desk appears below.

Q. How long should you stand at a standing desk per day? 

It is recommended that for every 2 hours you are sitting down at your desk, you should spend 1 hour standing. If you prefer standing, try not to stand at your standing desk for more than 4 hours.

Q. Can standing desks cause back pain? 

Standing desks are known to cause back pain if you stand at it for too long. Alternating between sitting and standing every 2 hours may reduce the chances of getting back pain. Also, consider getting a standing desk mat to support your feet and legs while you stand.

Q. Do standing desks help you lose weight?

While you will not notice an immediate or ample amount of weight loss, using a standing desk can help you burn 170 calories or more a day more than sitting at a desk would.

Q. What standing desk is best for tall people? 

For a person over the height of 5 feet and 9 inches the appropriate height range should be 44 inches to 50 inches tall. In this case, the Vari Electric Standing Desk may be your best bet.

Q. Can you use two monitors on a standing desk?

As long as your standing desk has the appropriate weight capacity to hold your monitors, it is completely safe to use two or more monitors on a standing desk.

Why Trust Bob Vila 

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Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.