Best standing desks (February 2023)

The best standing desks are increasingly popular due to their overall health and productivity benefits while working. These benefits include boosting energy levels, improving focus and concentration, increasing productivity, reducing fatigue and stress, and strengthening core muscles. In this guide, we look at the best standing desks we have found, with ratings of why we think they are great and any standout features that we love. We also link to our full reviews of each desk so you can see even more information on any desk of interest.

Below, we will take a closer look at some of the best standing desks on the market. Our team has professionally and expertly tested each desk per our testing policies (opens in new tab) to give you a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision when buying a standing desk. 

For each desk, we perform benchmark testing and we use this as a desk in our office space for an extended period of time to make sure we gain a broad understanding of how the desk operates in the real world. During testing, a few areas we focus on are the essential functions of a standing desk and how easy it is to assemble, notable features, customization options, build quality, and stability. A TechRadar Pro standing desk survey from early 2023 concluded that over a fifth of the people polled did not own a standing desk but was looking to buy one. Of that group, the vast majority reported increased health benefits as one of the main reasons to want a standing desk.

• Check out the best standing desk converter if you have a smaller budget to upgrade your working station and the best office chair to improve your home office set up.

Current Standing Desk Deals

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The Best Standing Desks 2023

FlexiSpot E7 Standing Desk

(Image credit: Future)

the best standing desk we have tested when it comes to build quality and functionality

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

22.8 – 48.4in / 58 – 123cm

Desktop size:

47.2 x 23.6 – 82.6 x 31.4in / 120 x 60 – 210 x 80cm

Lifting Weight:

355lb / 161kg

Today’s Best Deals

View at FlexiSpot

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Build quality

+

Overall functionality of desk

+

Motorized legs

+

Integrated wireless charger

Reasons to avoid

–

Can’t move the integrated wireless charger

The Flexispot E7 (opens in new tab) is a quality height-adjustable standing desk and one that comes with a competitive price tag for this impressive curved workspace.

The surface is bamboo, with a total desk size of 140x71cm (55x28in) and an integrated wireless charger on the left-hand side.

The anti-collision system works as expected, keeping your desk and things around it safe. The motor on the E7 is particularly powerful; it is slightly noisy, but we’ve encountered far worse laptop fans. This desk can confidently and safely lift 161kg (355lb).

The integrated cable management and ability to add more are very nice upgrades from the previous version of this desk, the E7b. One of these upgrades is the desk’s integrated wireless charger on the left side. While having this built into the desk is incredibly helpful in some scenarios, in others, the inability to move may make it difficult to use for some.

Overall, it exceeds what we’d expect from a standing desk. Remember to get a good office chair, as you’d otherwise miss out on a comfortable, stress-free working environment.

Read the full review: Flexispot E7

Uplift V2

(Image credit: Future)

2. Uplift V2

Best overall standing desk

Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:

(opens in new tab)

☆

☆

☆

☆

☆

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

25.5 – 51.1in / 65 – 130cm

Desktop size:

42 x 30 – 80 x 30″ / 106.7 x 76.2 – 203 x 76.2cm

Lifting Weight:

355lb / 161kg

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent build quality

+

Smooth and quiet motors

+

Many size and color choices

+

Lots of mounting points for accessories

Reasons to avoid

–

Expensive international shipping

Uplift V2 (opens in new tab) is one of the best standing desks that benefits from top-notch build quality and prides itself on stability. An issue that can be found with some standing desks is that they might be a bit shaky, particularly when extended to higher levels. Uplift is nicely stable, though, thanks to built-in stability braces.

Dual-motors mean the desk can change heights quickly, with a smooth and quiet action, and anti-collision tech is also in the mix (meaning if the desk is lowering and hits something – like your seat, or heaven forbid, your head – it stops).

The desk also benefits from many mounting points for accessories, with some pretty nifty extras that can be hooked up to this thing – including an under-desk hammock (yes, you read that right – it attaches underneath when the desk is fully raised). If there’s any testament you need to the stability of this unit, it’s being able to sleep in a hammock under it!

There are loads of choices for desktop sizes and colors (and indeed frame colors), you get built-in cable management, and there are curved or corner desk models. The products are backed by an impressive seven-year warranty, too.

The Uplift is available in standard and commercial standing desk versions (the latter has even more stability thanks to a crossbar), and those outside the US can order a unit to be shipped. However, it will be delivered as ‘palletized freight’ and could be expensive – so the maker suggests purchasing the Uplift frame only and sourcing your desktop for it locally.

Read the full review: Uplift V2 (opens in new tab)

FlexiSpot E8

(Image credit: Future)

3. Flexispot E8

The best standing desk for a large and immersive workspace

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height Range:

23.6 – 49.2″ / 60 – 125cm

Desktop Size:

30 x 72in / 76.2 x 183cm

Lifting Weight:

275lb / 125kg

Today’s Best Deals

View at FlexiSpot

(opens in new tab)

Check Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Good amount of desk space

+

Anti-collision legs

+

275lb / 125kg lifting weight

+

Four height presets

Reasons to avoid

–

Expensive accessories

The Flexispot E8 (opens in new tab) Frame and Bamboo Series Standing Desk is an impressive offering that feels like a significant upgrade from any other desk we have tested. It comes with the Premium Keypad, black frame, a desktop size of 76x183cm, an under-desk drawer in black, and standing desk casters W1. The bamboo top is nice and smooth, dropping overall weight compared to a solid wood top. The added drawer contains things out of sight that might be needed but doesn’t need to be present on the desk. The drawer is lined with soft padded material, allowing for no scratching of the drawer or your items – a very nice bonus.

The desk feels solid, with excellent build quality. The added wheels were a great choice, making it easy to add or adjust things on this desk. Not having to pick up the desk, squeeze into a tiny area, or disassemble half of what is on the desk just to check one cable is incredibly useful. This desk has a top height of 125cm (plus an additional 5cm for the wheels) and a bottom height of 60cm. The dual-motor system can lift up to 125kg (275lbs). The legs on this desk are powerful, albeit slightly noisy, and have helpful features such as anti-collision detection.

The integrated cable management, additional cable management, additional drawer, and premium keypad made this desk an impressive combination of capable and powerful. You could swing for some accessories to make this desk even more productive. However, keep in mind that it will raise the price significantly.

Read the full review: Flexispot E8

Vari Electric

(Image credit: Future)

4. Vari Electric Standing Desk

An electric standing desk you can set up in minutes

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

25 – 50.5in / 63.5 – 128cm

Desktop size:

48 – 72 x 30in / 122 -183 x 76.2cm

Lifting Weight:

200lb / 90.7kg

Today’s Best Deals

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

View at Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Intuitive assembly process

+

Multiple finishes and sizes available

+

Excellent cable management features

+

Supports up to 200lb (90.7 kg)

Reasons to avoid

–

Cable Management Tray costs extra

Vari’s Electric Standing Desk (opens in new tab) is available in three different widths (48in, 60in, and 72in)  to suit the needs of your home office and can be set up in minutes using the two included Allen wrenches. The desk features two t-style legs, each containing a motor that allows it to be raised to a maximum height of 50.5in (128cm) or lowered to 25in (63.5cm).

In addition to choosing from three widths, Vari’s Electric Standing Desk is also available in five different finishes (black, white, dark wood, butcher block, and reclaimed wood). The desk can support up to 200lb (90.7kg), which makes it an ideal choice for power users with multiple monitors and heavier workstation PCs.

However, what impressed us most was how much thought Vari put into the assembly process of its desk. The desk’s frame comes pre-attached, and customers only need to assemble the legs. A control panel resides in the middle of the frame, and the cords for both motors and the keypad at the front of the desk plug into it. Vari also sells an optional cable management tray that easily attaches to the back of the desk and has more than enough room to hold a power strip and even a large power adapter for a business monitor.

The keypad allows you to easily and quickly adjust the desk’s height, and there are four memory presets for storing your preferred sitting and standing heights. The desk is relatively quiet when moving between heights, and we could even lower and raise the desk without spilling a full cup of coffee. Vari also offers free shipping in the contiguous US and 30-day risk-free returns.

Read the full review: Vari Electric Standing Desk (opens in new tab)

Branch Standing Desk

(Image credit: Future)

5. Branch Standing Desk

Best all-rounder standing desk

Our expert review:

Specifications

Type:

Motorized

Height range:

25 – 52in / 64 – 132cm

Desktop size:

48 x 30in / 122 x 76.2cm

Lifting Weight:

275lb / 124kg

Today’s Best Deals

View at Branch

(opens in new tab)

Check Amazon

(opens in new tab)

Reasons to buy

+

Tallest extension level

+

Stain and impact-resistant desk surface

+

Easy to assemble

Reasons to avoid

–

4-6 day delivery

There’s a lot to like about the Branch Standing Desk (opens in new tab), which is a versatile piece of furniture in many ways. For starters, it rises to the highest level of the desks in this roundup, and as Branch observes, this standing desk provides a stable work surface for people as tall as 6-foot 8-inches.

The melamine desk surface is both stain-resistant and impact-resistant, so it should be safe from spillage or other accidents. Plus, the lifting action is nicely smooth when the desk is raised using dual motors, and a three-stage-column system ensures stability even at the higher levels that this desk can reach (adjustable feet help achieve this goal as well).

You get four memory presets for the different heights that are most commonly needed and cable management facilities too. There are some useful optional extras, such as in-desk power outlets (and USB ports), and furthermore, the Branch Standing Desk is easy to put together.

There are two different versions – the Team Plus model and an Executive desk which is the same depth but wider (60-inches rather than 48-inches). With a sensibly affordable asking price and a 10-year warranty, you could be tempted by this office furniture. The only downside to this desk is that you can’t pick it up immediately. You’ll have to order it and wait patiently.

Read the full review: Branch Standing Desk (opens in new tab)

Key Features to Look for When Buying a Standing Desk

When it comes to finding the right standing desk, there are a few key features that you should look for. Finding a quality standing desk is important for ensuring your workday is comfortable and productive. Whether you’re looking for an adjustable height solution or something more traditional, having the right ergonomic features can make all the difference when it comes to promoting a healthy and comfortable work environment. Here are some key features you should look for when buying a standing desk.

First, it is important to find a desk with an adjustable height range. When sitting, your arms should be at 90 degrees while typing, while during standing, your elbows should be slightly bent. Having a desk with an appropriate height range will help you find the perfect position for either sitting or standing. Additionally, look for desks that offer adjustable width configurations so you can fit more than one person in the space if needed.

Finally, consider features like cable management and storage solutions to keep your workstation organized and clutter-free. This will help ensure that you can easily find the tools and supplies you need to get your work done efficiently. Additionally, look for models with anti-collision technology to protect the desk and any items stored on it during height adjustment. With these key features in mind, you will surely find a standing desk that suits your needs.

We asked Elsa Sinjaga, marketing manager at Treston (opens in new tab), what customers should consider when buying an ergonomic desk:

Studies repeatedly show “an improvement in discomfort and pain as people use [standing] desks.”

Elsa Sinjaga, Marketing Manager, Treston

Costs associated with health and safety problems are an ever-increasing concern to all industries. For instance, studies repeatedly show “an improvement in discomfort and pain as people use [standing] desks.” Though they’re just one step in the right direction – you should also take breaks and get your muscles moving and your blood pumping, not to mention stay active generally – on top of alternating between standing and sitting.

Occupational musculoskeletal disorders caused by poor working postures not only cause physical strain to employees but also burden companies through sick leave, incapacity for work, and decreased productivity. This concern drives industries to seek solutions to provide a healthy, safe, and productive working environment. Designing a workplace with ergonomics in mind improves the employees’ well-being, which in turn improves productivity.

Designing a workplace with ergonomics in mind improves the employees’ well-being, which in turn improves productivity.

Elsa Sinjaga, Marketing Manager, Treston

One key element to a well-functioning workspace is an ergonomic, height-adjustable desk. Here is a list of five key factors to consider when selecting and buying an ergonomic desk.  

1.    Height adjustment method

Hand crank, if the workbench’s height is adjusted only once or twice a day, for example, during a shift change. Electric height adjustment, if the workbench height is adjusted several times a day, e.g. several workers working on the same bench, or work requires different working postures (sitting, standing, semi-sitting). Another piece worth considering is the number of motors. The difference between a single-motor and a dual-motor desk may seem insignificant. However, the weight capacity and lifting power are increased with two motors.

2.    Consider safety and durability

Make sure the desk has a sturdy and stable structure, and it can withstand loads common to your workplace. If you have accessories, e.g, shelves or bin rails & bins, above the work surface, make sure the structure of the frame withstands loads above the work surface without tipping over. Further, opt for a durable standing desk when you can. The higher-quality desks have passed stability and durability tests and will last for years, making the added financial investment well worth it. If possible, choosing a brand with extended warranty coverage and certifications regarding their safety measures would also be wise.

3.    Is a sufficient range of accessories available?

Accessories on arms, such as auxiliary shelves, LCD screen and keyboard holders, document holders, equipment trays, and such, are vital in reducing unnecessary reaching and in ensuring proper ergonomics.

(Image credit: creston)

4.    Worktop size

The primary work zone where you usually work is rather small. The image below shows the primary, secondary and tertiary work zones. Consider these working zones and the size of the workpiece when selecting the appropriate size for your worktop size.

5.    Easy and effortless usability

No matter what the tasks are and whether there is only one or several workers using the workbench, make sure there desk is easy to operate. Height adjustment should be effortless and quick and adjusting the accessories to the operator should not require tools or force.  

The modular design of workbenches enables proper ergonomics. Modularity and accessories are individually adjustable according to the task and operator requirements. Look out for workstations and accessories that are adjustable for operators of different heights working with left or right hand. Correctly adjusted workstations decrease muscle stress and enable productive work throughout the shift.

6.    Other thoughts

A few other things that have yet to be mentioned are worth looking into when buying a standing desk. First off, while aesthetics may not seem as important right off the bat, having a desk that fits your personality, your space, and your style can help with overall productivity in the space.

Anna Bettina Pangalangan from Flexispot (opens in new tab) tells us more about her secrets to find the best standing desk for your ideal home office setup:

Having a dedicated working desk is beneficial: It can increase creativity and productivity since you have a space where you can set up your computers and files in one place.

Anna Bettina Pangalangan, Flexispot

Remote working will likely be the new normal for some, even if some offices are already calling back their employees. If you are one of those who are staying at home and working, you might as well invest in a standing desk.

Having a dedicated working desk is beneficial: It can increase creativity and productivity since you have a space where you can set up your computers and files in one place. Another advantage is that having a working table reinforces boundaries between home and work life. This is the area where you can draw the line. 

As much as possible, opt for an ergonomic working desk. Traditional desks are cheaper but they do not offer any ergonomic benefits. An ergonomic desk allows you to stand and sit on the fly because of its height adjustment feature. Investing in a standing desk can help you to achieve a healthy and pain-free body by encouraging you to stand more often. 

Prolonged sitting is linked to cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. It also contributes to chronic back pain because of poor posture. Moreover, over-sitting can also affect mental health by increasing the rates of anxiety and depression. 

The key is to have the right mix of standing and sitting throughout the day.

Anna Bettina Pangalangan, Flexispot

But then again, there should be a balance between sitting and standing. Standing all day is also not highly recommendable. Being on your feet for long periods can put a lot of pressure on your legs, which can cause swelling, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. The key is to have the right mix of standing and sitting throughout the day.

Exercising alone is not enough to counter the effects of too much sitting. Incorporating standing and movement into your day through to use of a sit-stand desk is going to be more beneficial. 

Cable Management for Standing Desks

(Image credit: Future)

Managing your Cables

Before you purchase a standing desk, it’s worth looking into the cable management options available. While you can add your own cable management tray later, finding a desk that already includes one or has one available for purchase will ensure that it fits the aesthetic of your desk.

Keeping a clean and organized office space is an essential part of any work environment, and standing desks are no exception. With the best standing desk comes a need for responsible cable management to keep your station neat, tidy, and orderly. Unruly cords can not only be disorganized visually, but they can also cause potential accidents if someone trips or gets caught on a loose cord. Implementing appropriate cable management techniques is essential to get the most out of your standing desk and guarantee safety in the workspace. With the proper setup, you can enjoy your new space without worrying about what’s behind or below it. It’s also worth noting that if you primarily do most of your work from a laptop, you might not necessarily need a cable management tray. Instead, you can charge your computer elsewhere and use it at your desk. However, suppose you plan on creating a more permanent setup with a desktop PC and a monitor or multiple monitors. In that case, you’ll get some management solutions with your desk. This way, you can manage all of your cables immediately after assembling your desk instead of coming up with an answer after the fact.

While electric standing desks generally ship with long power cables, the cables to your PC and monitor are usually shorter. With a cable management tray, you can put a power strip under your desk so that your cables move with it when raised or lowered. Cable management trays also allow you to reposition your desk in different workspace areas without messing with all the wires each time.

If your desk manufacturer doesn’t offer a management tray, one affordable and straightforward option to consider is Ikea’s SIGNUM management (opens in new tab) system. At just $15, it’s a cost-eit’stive solution that only requires four screws to install. Another great thing is that it is adjustable, and you can choose where the cable tray is positioned under your desk.

How we Test our Standing Desks

We prioritize field testing above laboratory testing since that is where items are utilized. On the other hand, we benchmark each product that sells based on particular performance characteristics.

We checked everything after assembly, including the stability at the desks’ highest point and their volume when extended. We looked at how simple it was to raise the desk both with nothing on it and with a lot of supplies. We also considered how well-designed they were because a desk should complement your home office. We also considered the desk’s level of customization when determining its final ranking because many standing desks can be configured with a variety of materials and surfaces — you can choose between laminate and hardwood tops, colors, and more.

For more on how we test standing desks, check out our in-depth how we test page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are standing desks actually worth it?

Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular, and with good reason. Standing while you work can help improve posture, reduce back pain, and provide other health benefits like improved blood circulation and a boost to energy levels. Additionally, studies have shown that standing while working may lead to increased productivity, which helps keep you focused and alert.

However, it’s important to consider the cost when deciding whether a standing desk is worth it. Standing desks can be quite expensive, especially if you want one of higher quality with adjustable heights. Additionally, standing all day can also lead to fatigue and soreness in your legs, so it’s important to make sure you take breaks and move around regularly.

While standing desks can be beneficial, they may not be worth the cost or effort for everyone. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before ensuring that investing in a standing desk is the right choice for you. If you decide to purchase one, take regular breaks and move around often to maximize its potential benefits. This way, you can get the most out of your standing desk and ensure it’s truly worth it.

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 standing desk 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. Furthermore, taking good care of your standing desk and using it responsibly may last even longer.

For instance, if you’re careful to avoid slamming drawers shut or putting too much weight on the desk, the lifespan should be extended significantly. Furthermore, if you choose to use a high-grade finish such as oil or varnish for your standing desk, it can help to protect the wood against wear and tear and extend its lifespan.

A standing desk should last between five and ten years with regular use when appropriately constructed. Taking good care of your standing desk by avoiding slamming drawers shut or putting too much weight on the surface is a great way to ensure your standing desk will last for many years. Furthermore, if you choose higher-grade materials such as maple or oak and finish the wood with an oil or varnish, you can extend your standing desk’s lifespan even further. With regular care and maintenance, a good quality standing desk should provide many years of service before needing to be replaced.

What are the benefits of using a standing desk?

Using a standing desk has been shown to have numerous benefits, including improving posture and reducing the risk of back pain, as well as potentially increasing productivity and burning more calories. Standing desks allow for a more active workstyle, which can be beneficial for those who spend long hours sitting at a desk.

What are the different types of standing desks?

There are two main types of standing desks: manual and electric. Manual standing desks require the user to manually adjust the desk’s height by turning a hand crank or lifting and lowering the desk manually. Electric standing desks, on the other hand, use a motor to adjust the desk’s height at the press of a button.

Are standing desks adjustable?

Yes, most standing desks are adjustable. Adjustability is one of the key features of a standing desk, as it allows the user to easily switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. The range of adjustability can vary, with some desks offering a greater range of height options than others.

Are standing desks easy to assemble?

The ease of assembly can vary depending on the specific standing desk being used. Some desks are simpler to assemble than others, with clear instructions and all necessary tools included. It is important to carefully read the assembly instructions and make sure you have all the necessary tools before beginning the assembly process.

What is the maximum weight capacity of a standing desk?

The maximum weight capacity of a standing desk can vary depending on the specific model. It is important to consider the weight of any items you plan on placing on the desk, as well as your own weight, when selecting a standing desk. Smaller desks and desktops that are less expensive may not be able to support as much weight as larger or more expensive desktops.

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