If you’re considering purchasing a standing desk, you probably know there are a lot of options. You may have narrowed your search to focus on an adjustable height desk so you can use it while you’re standing or sitting. But what you might not know is that some standing desks have premium features not available in a basic standing desk. Let’s look at seven of the most popular options.
- Electric adjustment. An electric adjustable desk is much easier to raise and lower than hydraulic or hand-crank models. You just press the up or down button to change the height of the desk. Electric standing desks also raise and lower more smoothly than manual options.
- Memory preset options. Some electric standing desks have the option for a control panel that has memory presets that work a bit like the ones on your car radio. You move the desk to the height that’s right for you, and program a preset button for that height. When you want to adjust the desk’s height, you press the preset button you configured, and the desk automatically adjusts to that position.
- Dual motors. An electric adjustable desk with a single motor are usually noisier and slower than those with a motor in each leg. Single motor adjustable desks may also have a lower weight limit. Opt for a model with two motors for quieter, smoother movement.
- Anti-collision feature. When an adjustable height desk is in motion, it could collide with objects in its path, like windowsills, cabinets, or other furniture. Consider an electric standing desk with an anti-collision feature that will halt the desk’s movement if it senses something in its way. This can be especially important if you have children or pets that can come into your workspace.
- Crossbar. A crossbar that connects the legs toward the middle of the desk frame provides optimal stability. Since you’re likely to adjust your desk height several times a day, you don’t want to worry about items on your desk wobbling or shaking.
- Desktop surface options. Most standing desk sellers offer a variety of options for the desktop’s surface, but not all of them are eco-friendly—especially the laminate options. Laminate is typically made using fiber board fused together with melamine resin, which is a compound made with formaldehyde. If you don’t want to choose such an artificial desktop option, go for a natural surface made from bamboo or reclaimed wood instead.
- Add-ons. A standing desk becomes even more useful when you opt for some of the handy extras some sellers offer. These can include under-desk keyboard trays, locking casters, grommets or other cable management options, drawers, PC holders, and more.