The best standing desk converters offer a lightweight, space-saving alternative to a sit-stand desk without moving and assembling all your office furniture.
Our review team has expertly tested the best standing desks - they're a great choice for flexibility in the office and home, letting you sit and stand and stay active throughout the working day. But if you don't have the space (or you love the desk you have), then a standing desk converter is ideal.
The best standing desk converter we've reviewed is the VariDesk Pro Plus 36, which comes fully assembled, features 11 height settings, and has a welcome, robust weight to it. However, we've rounded up a range of alternatives that let you sit and stand at work, from budget picks to one of the best laptop stands we've ever tried. During our review process, we examine height range, weight load limit, design and ergonomics, and all the extra features you need for your desk.
For more workspace furniture, we reviewed the best office chairs and the best office desks.
The quick list
Looking for a quick rundown of the best standing desk converters? Check out our top picks below, and for more in-depth reviews or to compare prices, click on each one.
Best standing desk converter overall
The VariDesk Pro Plus 3 arrives fully assembled. However, what sets this standing desk converter apart from the competition is that it features a weighted base for extra stability, thicker gauge steel, and a durable 3D laminate finish.
Best budget standing desk converter
The VIVO Height Adjustable 32in Desk Converter allows you to raise this from a base height of 4.4” up to 19.6”. It can hold a maximum of 33lb (14.9kg), while the keyboard tray can hold up to 4.4lb (1.99kg).
Best standing desk converter for support
The EM7 Motorized AlcoveRiser from Flexispot is a Standing Desk converter that can turn any standard table or desk into a two-tiered standing desk. With a 44lb weight limit, it easily supports laptops, monitors, tablets, and more.
Best standing desk converter for dual monitors
The Mount-It! Standing Desk Converter is another relatively inexpensive option. If you use multiple monitors, you’re good to go as it comes with a free, detachable dual monitor mount that fits screens up to 27in.
Best standing desk converter for small spaces
The WorkFit-Z Mini features a cut-out at the front of its desktop can hold both a smartphone and a smaller tablet. The keyboard tray has holes at either end for neatly running cables.
Best for laptops & tablets
The Moft Sit-Stand Laptop desk is a feat of origami craftsmanship. If has the ability to hold your MacBook at standing height without any additional pieces, but can fold away to almost nothing to be slipped into your bag.
The best standing desk converter 2024
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Best standing desk converter overall
✅ You want a smooth workspace: VariDesk Pro Plus' worktop is sleek and smooth, made from a laminate finish that is durable and elegant.
✅ You're looking for a large workspace: The 36-inch wide size for this standing desk converter is great, not too wide or narrow, allowing plenty of workspace for most desks without being too much.
✅ You want a great, multi-functional lower level: Some standing desk converters have merely a narrow tray for their lower level. The ProPlus series has a cutaway, giving enough space for extra accessories if wanted on the bottom.
❌ You have a tight space behind your office chair: Because the Pro Plus extends out towards us as we raise it up, it also cuts into our workspace. This will be difficult but not impossible for tight workspaces or cubicles. This is fixed, however, with the new Pro Plus 36 Electric model!
❌ You want to be able to raise/lower with one hand: The Pro Plus 36 has two handles, one on each side, that need to be pulled to change the height. Usually, this is no problem, but if you want to change the height with one hand for any reason, that may be a problem. Again, this has been fixed with the new Pro Plus 36 Electric model.
❌ You need a high lifting weight: While using it for actual desk purposes, we have yet to run into any issues with the weight on this desk while standing. However, we have been able to make it fall or almost fall when we added a bit more to the desktop as the design moves the desktop out and away from the base at an extended height. Yet again, this is resolved with the electric model, granting over 10 more pounds of weight allowance.
↕️ The VariDesk Pro Plus 36 Standing Desk Converter is a fantastic choice for those looking to add the ability to stand to their stationary desk. Check out the electric Pro Plus 36 model for those wanting to spend more. For those who want to keep things simple, try the manual model. All in all, this is a great standing desk converter for most individuals in the market for a converter. ★★★★½
What you need to know
The VariDesk Pro Plus 36 from Vari is a standing desk converter with two models, a manual and an electric. Both models have a great-sized workspace, a smooth desktop, and a generously sized keyboard and mouse tray large enough to house a laptop, notebook, or other accessories. This converter comes almost entirely assembled in the box. All we needed to do was add the keyboard tray, and we were good to go. Vari also offers monitor arms that can get your displays off your desktop and out of the way. We were quite impressed with these arms overall, and we think they are a great addition to an impressive standing desk converter
Design and Build Quality: This desktop converter is made with high quality materials that keep this desk looking great even with medium to heavy use. At the lowest position, this workspace is remarkably stable. The desktop is clean and minimal, while remaining durable and looking brand new even after regular use. While lifting, there is a slight wobble, though this is nothing unexpected.
Performance: While using this standing desk converter, we found that this was a great all around standing desk converter, working well for a laptop setup, an iMac setup, a multi-monitor setup, or just about anything in-between. The two-tiered design is great to help give some dimension and separation between screens and a keyboard or a laptop and a notebook. The manual version of this desk requires two hands to be able to squeeze the triggers to change heights to the 11 pre-determined locking positions. The electric model, in comparison, can stop anywhere in it's height range and can be operated with a single press of a button. Though, there are no presets like what can be expected from many of those listed in our guide to the best standing desk.
Features: The standout feature of this standing desk is the great sized lower tray. As mentioned previously, some standing desk converters lack in the lower shelf space that is available for use. This one by design can fit a laptop, give some room for a notebook or some documents, or other accessories to help do your job well. But, perhaps most of all, this desk feels like a good size when using it, and you don't feel like you are compromising or over compensating with a converter that is too large or too small.
Value for money: The VariDesk Pro Plus is a decent value for its price. We wouldn't have it currently slated for the #1 spot if this were not the case. The stability and no-nonsense workspace without a plethora of bells and whistles to distract you from work make this an overall great value for the dollars spent. For roughly a $50 difference (depending on sales) you can upgrade and get the electric version we have mentioned, which is another fantastic Standing Desk converter, albeit not as simple as this manual version.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Well priced, and Vari frequently has a sale on their site | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Overall a great design, one that the electric model near perfects | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | The performance has been great, and we have had no major issues | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | The size of the lower level tray is fantastic | ★★★★★ |
Best budget standing desk converter
✅ You want an easy-to-set-up desk converter: This desk converter is pretty much ready to go out of the box. There is only minor assembly required to set up this converter
✅ You want a wide keyboard tray: This keyboard tray is wide enough for a full-size keyboard with numpad, room for a mouse to work comfortably and some room to spare.
✅ You want a budget-friendly option: At the time of writing this, you can pick one of these up for $120.
❌ You have a tight space: While there are smaller options available from Vivo's website, this model is a fairly decent size, probably too large for the average cubicle but not bad for a standalone desk
❌ You need an electric standing desk converter: This desk does not have an electric motor, just the manual ability to raise and lower assisted by a pneumatic spring.
❌ You need built-in cable management: Vivo is kind enough to send along some cable ties and some adhesives, however there is no good way to hide cables coming off of the desktop unless you purchase something third-party.
↕️ The Vivo 32-inch Standing Desk Converter is a great choice for anyone looking for a great standing desk converter without breaking the bank. It's got great workspace size, quality build, and all for a great price. ★★★★
What you need to know
Looking for an affordable way to join the standing desk movement? The Vivo 32-inch standing desk converter could be the solution you need. It offers a generous work surface that can accommodate various workflows, from multiple screens to creative projects. Plus, it doesn't require a significant investment or a complete workspace overhaul.
Design and Build Quality: The standing desk converter boasts a sturdy and durable base, which is impressive considering its lower price point. This base ensures a stable workspace, providing a great working experience even at maximum height. Further, the materials used in this converter are high quality, and it feels like they will last for a long time.
Performance: The converter's height adjustment is incredibly smooth and seamless. When adjusting the height, there's no need to worry about accidentally spilling a drink or a monitor falling off the back of the desk. This smooth height adjustment is also very nice when changing heights throughout the day.
Features: This standing desk converter generally has no standout features, which is perfectly acceptable. Considering it is a low-cost option, we anticipate it to be basic. This standing desk converter functions effectively despite its simplicity, especially given its price point. While this standing desk converter has no accessories, Vivo has many accessories that can be purchased alongside any standing desk converter purchase.
Value for money: The Vivo 32-inch standing desk converter offers a great affordable option to get into the world of standing desk converters without spending much cash. The quality is great, the materials feel high-end, and this feels like something we could use for years without diminishing experiences.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Great value for the price | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Simple and minimalist design overall | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Consistent performance throughout | ★★★★★ |
| Features | No flagship features, but rather a simple design | ★★★★☆ |
Best standing desk converter for support
✅ You have a fairly heavy desk setup: This model can lift up to 44lb of gear without any issues, and the keyboard tray has an 11lb capacity. This means that you can lift most setups you can fit on this converter.
✅ You have a laptop or tablet in your setup: We love the keyboard tray that this standing desk converter has because we can use it for so much more, like holding an iPad or tablet within our workspace perfectly within reach.
✅ You want a no-nonsense standing desk converter: Flexispot's EM7 converter is straightforward and efficient, with no unnecessary complications or issues. It simply does what it is supposed to do.
❌ You want additional accessories: As we briefly mentioned above, this standing desk converter is bare-bones and simple. Personally, we like that we won't have to fiddle with gadgets we may or may not want. We can add if we want, or we can get straight to work.
❌ You need a standing desk converter with presets: Unlike the similarly named Flexispot E7 Pro standing desk, this converter has no height presets, meaning you have to hold the button to raise or lower to your desired height.
❌ You want the workspace to come forward off of the desk: Some people prefer having their standing desk converter rise and come towards them so that their legs are not so close to the stationary desktop. If that's you, you'll be disappointed when this converter lifts straight up off the desk.
↕️ The Flexispot EM7 Standing Desk Converter is a wonderfully simplistic option for a standing desk converter from a fantastic company. What it offers is reliable usage, a good lifting capacity, and longevity thanks to great build quality and craftsmanship from Flexispot ★★★★½
What you need to know
Flexispot's high-quality standing desk converter, badged the EM7 gives us the same reliability we have learned to expect from Flexispot. The converter is simple yet high-end, has little to no features yet works really well, and has simple user interactions to help make this product more than just another gadget on your desk. This desk converter is meant to get some work done. We love that the keyboard tray is deep and sturdy enough to easily use it to hold an iPad in a folio or our laptop and plug it into a business monitor. Last but not least, we can quickly detach the keyboard tray with a simple leaver leaving us with a little cutout and still a large workspace. Most other converters choose to bolt their keyboard trays in, making this a much more tedious process. But with Flexispot, the tray can pop out in mere seconds.
Design and Build Quality: The overall quality of this standing desk converter is quite impressive. The workspace, even at maximum extension (the most extreme height), is quite sturdy thanks to the vertical lift and rigid design. The table top is firm but not sharp or too hard, and the materials feel like they can last for quite a while without any issues.
Performance: No matter how many times we remove the keyboard tray, raise or lower the workspace or how many monitors we manage to fit on the top portion, this standing desk still works great, just like it did on day one. Granted, if we surpass the 44lb limit, things may change. Still, so far, we have tried laptop setups, two monitor setups, an iMac and monitor setup, and even several heavy books setups, and so far, there have been zero issues.
Features: The best feature of this standing desk converter is that the keyboard tray can be removed quickly and easily without much effort. This allows for a modular workspace, almost giving you four formats for work. There are four different settings for the desk: resting height with the keyboard tray, lowest height without the keyboard tray, standing height with the keyboard tray, and standing height without the keyboard tray.
Value for money: This converter is a great solution for just about anyone, thanks to its remarkably low price. The quality that comes with this standing desk converter is quite high, especially for the money, and even if the price were higher, it would be worth the price.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Great low price, high value for money | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Simple and streamlined design | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Consistent performance overtime without issues | ★★★★★ |
| Features | The easily removable keyboard tray is very helpful | ★★★★★ |
Best standing desk converter for dual monitor setups
✅ You want a well-built model: Boasting Mount-It!’s Ultimate product level, this is a well-built and sturdy standing desk converter with a fair weight capacity.
✅ You need a lot of space: This standing desk converter is fairly broad, especially when used with the extended keyboard tray, making it perfect for those who don't want to feel hemmed in.
✅ You need all office essentials: With its neat tray for the keyboard and mouse, cable management solutions, dual-monitor support, this is one of the best standing desk converters for anyone with lots of office accessories.
❌ You’re on a budget: With a high price-tag, the MI-7934 isn’t a cheap standing desk converter by any measure, especially since it's gas-powered.
❌ You only have one monitor: It's a great standing desk converter, but the real highlight here is the dual-monitor support. if you don't use two displays, it may not be worth it.
❌ You want a motorized converter: The Mount-It! desk converter is gas-powered, a bit like an office chair, so it's not as easy to adjust the height as a motorized model.
↕️ The Mount-It! Standing Desk Converter is expensive, but for a reliably built standing desk converter, it's a solid choice. What it really comes down to is whether you need the broad workspace on offer here. If you use two monitors, this model literally stands out. If you’re just looking for a quick path to workplace flexibility, it’s a bit much - and it's not even a motorized model.
What you need to know
Ideal if you need to maximize your workspace, the Mount-It! standing desk converter is a sleek, black all-in-one workstation with built-in keyboard and mouse tray. Freeing up even more desk space is the dual monitor mount included in the box, with support for monitors up to 32 inches. Operation is simple and silent, using a gas spring lift rather than a motor. However, that will mean it’s a bit more effort when adjusting the height downward.
Design and Build Quality: The frame of the standing desk converter, as well as the dual monitor arm, is made from metal, while the work surface (and keyboard tray are wooden, and painted a professional black. Weight load is a respectable 33lbs. Interestingly, Mount-It! models are rated by Product Level - a good way to find high-end and budget variants. The MI-7934 is listed at the highest level: Ultimate. So, expect a genuinely premium build quality here (it’s certainly priced that way). Non-skid pads are affixed to the foot of the sit-stand desk converter, to prevent marking your actual desk.
Performance: With desk space measuring 36.25 by 22in, the MI-7934 should provide a very freeing experience. While we haven’t gone toe-to-toe with this model, reviews are overwhelmingly positive. We did note two main complaints: since it’s gas-powered and not motorized, it can be hard to push the desk-top down. And assembly is intricate. We examined the manual and while not egregious, it’s fair to say it doesn’t come ready out of the box.
Features: There are plenty of essential features here - although the sheer amount of desk space on offer is high on the list. The dual monitor arm is the other show-stopper here, capable of tilting, swivelling, and rotating. Each arm has a 17.6lbs weight capacity, compatible with 32in screens, and supporting 75 x 75 and 100 x 100 VESA mount sizes. We especially like the inclusion of integrated cable management - which so few standing desks and converters get right. There is a keyboard and mouse tray, which is a nice touch and further adds to the spacious feel of the sit-stand converter. Although at 26.75 by 9in, if you use a full-sized keyboard, it won’t leave much room to swoop around a mouse at its side.
Value for money: The Mount-It! standing desk converter has an undeniably premium price-tag that’s not far off a full-sized desk. However, versatility is the key here, with those dual monitor arms, broad work area, and a raft of extras that many budget desk converters don’t offer. If you want a professional, spacious standing desk converter without getting rid of your existing desk, it’s worth adding to your set-up.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | A premium price-tag for a large, dual-monitor standing desk converter | ★★★☆☆ |
| Design | A nice design offering genuine space to work | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Good performance but is gas-powered, so harder to operate compared to motorized desk converters | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | Dual-monitor support, keyboard tray, and cable management solutions all present and correct | ★★★★★ |
Best standing desk converter for small spaces
✅ You have a small workspace to fit in: As alluded to in the name, the Ergotron WorkFit-Z Mini is a small workstation. For cubicles or smaller areas you are trying to maximize, this converter is perfect.
✅ You want a place to put your smartphone or tablet: This model has a great little slot for holding a smartphone or tablet without being too obtrusive or clunky.
✅ You like the look of woodgrain finish: Most standing desk converters are in basic black and plain colors. This one has a beautiful light grey woodgrain finish that is sure to stand out.
❌ You need cable management: The back of this unit has no cable management of any kind, not a problem if you're prepared for that, but if you were expecting a nice place to tuck cables, you'll be disappointed.
❌ You want options for the desktop finish: While this desk does have the unique finish of the grey wood top, that is also the only color that it comes in, not even white or black.
❌ You need a good size workspace: By design, this is a small workstation. If you are in need of something larger, check out the rest of this list, or check out Ergoton's website for more on their standing desk converters.
↕️ The Ergotron WorkFit-Z Mini Standing Desk Converter is Ergotron's best small surface standing desk converter, perfect for a cubicle or small desk where you need some dimension and health benefits. ★★★★
What you need to know
Ergotron's WorkFit-Z Mini, Standing Desk Workstation is Ergotron's smallest form factor, designed intentionally for small spaces. Further, Ergotron designed the desktop color to match modern workspaces well. This desk has no electronic motor, though moving this riser up and down is not a burden, thanks to the spring design. This desk converter also has a great slot in the front of the top level to hold your smartphone, tablet, book, or the like.
Design and Build Quality: The WorkFit-Z Mini is well-built and quite sturdy. While staying small, the design allows maximum space usage, making it work for a standard setup without a problem. This desk converter would be great for a laptop setup, a tablet setup, an All-in-One computer, or even a single monitor. Much more than that, and this workstation would feel instantly cluttered. The cutaway designed for a mobile phone or tablet is also quite useful. This gives a secure dropping place for any handheld or smaller devices without trying to have them take up space horizontally on the small workstation.
Performance: Even with its small size, the WorkFit-Z Mini can still lift 25lb and raise up to 12.5 inches. One great thing about this standing desk converter is that there are not several preset heights like we frequently see on manual converters. Instead, this one can stop from the lowest to the highest, making finding the perfect height much more achievable.
Features: One fantastic yet minor feature of this standing desk converter is that Ergotron has cable passthrough holes in the back of the solid wall between the top deck and the keyboard tray. Some converters have a solid tray wall, and some have no separation whatsoever, but we appreciate that Ergotron put a few holes designed for cables to reach the keyboard and mouse or for chargers, etc.
Value for money: The WorkFit - Z Mini is priced well for what it can do. While it is not the cheapest model, it sits comfortably in the middle range in price. While small, it is built well, sturdy, and from a quality company.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Well priced overall for what it is | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Sleek compact and functional design | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Works like it should, without problems | ★★★★★ |
| Features | Has a great gadget slot for holding gear while working | ★★★★☆ |
Best standing desk converter for laptops and tablets
✅ You want a well-designed sit-stand desk: A clever origami-style design is the highlight of this sit-stand laptop desk, offering multiple ways to use this product with a variety of devices.
✅ You want to take it with you: Measuring 9.4 x 11 x 0.15in when folded closed, this laptop riser is a good standing desk converter option if you want flexibility while commuting or traveling.
✅ You mostly use laptops and tablets: As a very versatile, foldable sit-stand desk converter with a 22lb weight limit, this is best used with lighter-weight devices like laptops and tablets rather than as part of your full desktop set-up.
❌ You want a full-sized standing desk converter: The Moft Z doesn’t even come close to a full-sized, full-featured experience of the best standing desk converter. It’s better-suited for travelers, commuters, and casual home use.
❌ You want a spacious, motorized model: Beyond the origami design, there are no big features here. It’s a small, simple, foldable sit-stand desk converter for your existing desk, rather than a workspace replacement.
❌ You don’t need to travel with it: This is a super-portable laptop riser that’s really built to take with you - in the home, office, and on the go. If your set-up is more permanent, you may not need the flexibility and versatility found here.
↕️ The Moft Z sit-stand desk and laptop riser is a neat, streamlined choice with a lightweight, foldable design that makes it highly portable. It can be used in a variety of positions for laptops and tablets, and has set recline positions, called Sitting Modes, to allow more comfort and customization when viewing screens and typing. It’s not a fully featured standing desk converter, but a better option if you’re working in multiple locations, or just want extra flexibility.
What you need to know
The Moft Z laptop riser is like a clever piece of origami craftsmanship for your office. This is the perfect companion to bring with you and your laptop to the coffee shop, work, a meeting, or just about anywhere. The sit-stand desk folds to almost nothing, making it fit perfectly into most of the best laptop bags. What makes this converter the most impressive is the ability to hold your MacBook at standing height without any additional pieces. This allows the camera to be raised to a perfect meeting height, a great standing desk height, or even just a slightly elevated angle for an ideal typing experience on laptops and tablets.
Design and Build Quality: As a foldable laptop stand, the Moft Z won’t have the same sturdiness as many of the best standing desk converters, with their non-skid pads and sprawling weight distribution. Here, the design is a simple Z-shape that folds out to support a laptop. It can also be stood horizontally, creating a convenient, compact tablet stand. Good flexibility here, and when it’s in the closed position, it’s about the same size as a magazine, according to the manufacturers. In terms of build quality, it’s constructed out of fiberglass with a PU coating. Not the sturdiest material out there, but it makes the riser fairly light and well-designed for travel.
Performance: Unfolding and standing up this model is a simple case of flipping out two panels, one to the front, one to the back. Resting on these, the Moft Z laptop riser is capable of supporting up to 18 to 22 lbs - more than enough for a laptop under general use. The five-in-one sit-stand desk can be adjusted to four preset degrees, to help better see the screen. And, like origami paper, can be folded in various ways to support tablets, writing, reading, as well as laptops. All very simple.
Features: Simplicity is the main feature of the Moft Z laptop riser. After all, it’s effectively a sheet of foldable fiberglass. There are no storage options, cable management, height-adjusting motors. Just a cleverly designed standing desk converter that lets you work with a number of different devices in a number of ways.
Value for money: The Moft Z sit-stand desk isn’t the cheapest standing desk converter on the market, but it’s not expensive either. As a commuter-focused product, there are limits here. It’s not a model that’s comparable with the likes of the Vari Pro Plus 36 Flexispot EM7, and the price reflects that. Still, it’s a smart design that’s built for mobile devices.
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Mid-range price, not the cheapest, but good for intended uses | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Excellent origami-like design that's light, foldable, portable, and supportive | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Incredibly easy to use and capable of supporting up to 22lbs | ★★★★★ |
| Features | Simple design is a highlight, and can be used with laptops and tablets in lots of different ways | ★★★★☆ |
How to choose the best standing desk converter for you
Here are a few key areas you should consider when deciding on the best standing desk converter for you:
How much space do you have? Desks come in all shapes and sizes, so you'll need to find a standing desk converter that fits on your current desk.
Do you have a dual monitor setup? If so, you'll need to find a standing desk converter that can support the weight of two monitors and provide a suitable mounting option.
Manual or electric? Do you want an electric motor to help you raise and lower your standing desk converter, or are you happy to save money and do the heavy lifting yourself?
Best Standing Desk Converters: FAQs
Are standing desk converters worth it?
Yes - if you don't want to introduce a full-sized standing desk into your workspace, the best standing desk converters offer the same functionality and flexibility, allowing you to work while sitting and standing. Like standing desks, the height adjustability of desk converters can be powered by hand (crank), gas, or motors. Some will also include cable management solutions, additional storage, and monitor mounts.
Is it better to get a standing desk or standing desk converter?
Whether you should choose a standing desk or standing desk converter depends on a number of factors.
Standing desks take up as much space as a standard office desk. If your workspace is compact, a converter is a good middle-ground, letting you work upright and when sitting.
A standing desk converter may also be a better option if you're working to a budget - although we've seen some desks and converters priced around the same point.
Sit-stand desk converters can also be packed away or transported more easily if you're working in multiple locations. On the other hand, standing desks tend to feature more extras like storage and cable management solutions, better weight limits and a higher height range.
Can you convert a regular desk to a standing desk?
Technically, you could convert an office desk to a standing desk, cutting away the legs, adding motors, and circuitry. But it takes time, effort, and skill to transform a traditional desk into a stable, functioning standing desk and we don't recommend it for anyone without the relevant experience. These days, for the price of an office desk, you can pick up a good standing desk online.
How many hours should you stand at a standing desk?
It all depends on your body and comfort levels. Remember, standing at your desk isn't endurance training. The best standing desk converters let you modulate your position throughout the working day, switching between sitting to standing, so you're more comfortable and your body isn't being put through undue stress.
Why choose a standing desk converter over a standing desk?
If you’re considering spending a significant sum (although there are great budget options out there) on a standing desk converter, you may be wondering if you should just upgrade to a standing desk instead, and for a good reason. However, not everyone is in the position to do so for several reasons.
Standing desks are significantly more expensive than standing desk converters, as some can be had for just over a hundred dollars. At the same time, standing desks can take up a lot of space, especially if you’re currently in a small apartment or a cramped dorm room. University students are also in a unique position since most colleges don’t allow you to change the furniture in your dorm room. The same concept applies to employees who work in offices that want to give work while standing a chance but can’t swap out their existing desk for a new one without first getting the necessary approval from HR. With a standing desk converter, you can upgrade your existing desk with little to no fuss. They’re also compact enough that you could even throw a standing desk converter in your car and bring it with you wherever you go.
The recent transition to remote work left many people without a dedicated home office, using their kitchen tables or other places around their homes to work. Even if you’re still using your kitchen table, a standing desk converter will make it feel like an actual desk with the added bonus of extra space for your files, coffee, and anything else you may need while working.
If you do decide to upgrade to a full-standing desk, later on, you can always sell your standing desk converter online or even give it to a friend or colleague that’s also interested in being more active throughout their workday.
How we choose the best standing desk converters
We've tested a range of office and home office accessories and furniture, including the best office chairs and the best standing desk mats. We rigorously test, review, and rate each of these, comparing them to similar products to ensure quality products and value for money.
We started by going hands-on with desk converters from Vari and Flexispot, putting each model through our usual rigorous testing process. These companies are behind some excellent standing desks and office chairs, with a proven track record in build quality and design - and the same is true of their on--desk options here. Using these best-in-class standing desk converters as a baseline, we compared the specs to other top-rated models across a range of important factors.
For height range, we want to see a desk with a broad spectrum to accommodate the most amount of users. Our top-rated standing desk converter elevates between 4.5 to 17.5in, which should be ideal for most users.
Size and dimensions are important to us - and it's a tricky balance. When comparing the best standing desk converters, we're expecting models to offer plenty of elevated workspace, without dominating a desk and making the surface area unusable. As part of this, we also look at added extras like built-in keyboard and tablet trays,
Build quality is important - standing desk converters are an investment, feeling sturdy and secure when in use. For this, we rely on our experience assembling a large range of essential office furniture, from desks to chairs, and exploring the different materials used in construction. During this part of our rigorous review process, we always compare weight loads, particularly as many workers prefer running the best dual monitor setups to help organize their office or home workspace.
Movement also comes under our consideration. Like standing desks, you can get hand-cranked and motorized standing desk converters. Generally, we recommend opting for motorized models as it allows more flexibility (and less energy) to adjust the height. Where available, we've chosen standing desk converters with dual-motors that, in our experience, are fast and quiet.
