Standing desks are hugely popular, and with good reason: they bring a host of benefits to your workday, including increased energy and focus, improved productivity, and a reduced risk of disease. But with all the sit-stand products on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. You’ll want to take several factors into account when buying a standing desk.
1. Opt for Dual Motors
Many standing desks feature a single motor with a drive train inside a connecting crossbar. This means that the desk has a lower weight capacity and slower, noisier, often jerky movement. A much better option is a desk with a motor in each leg, allowing for smooth, quick movement, more even adjustment, and a hefty weight capacity.
2. Better Safe Than Sorry
While an accident is unlikely with any height adjustable desk, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a model with an anti-collision feature that stops the desk automatically when it senses an obstruction. This will not only protect any kids who may be playing around your home office, but will also prevent damage to the desk if there’s anything in the way, like a windowsill or a storage cabinet underneath the desktop.
3. Check the Keypad Specs
All electric desks will include a keypad, the most basic consisting of up/down buttons that you hold down to raise or lower the desk. Other models include keypads with preset options, allowing you to set the perfect sitting and standing heights. Once you program the keypad (a 5-second process), you just press the numbered button and release, and the desk automatically moves to the desired height. It may seem like a small detail, but it’s actually a really nice touch, making the transition smooth and keeping you in the zone.
4. Does It Have a Crossbar?
Some manufacturers have chosen to design their standing desk bases with a hidden crossbar that lies flush under the surface of the desk. While this can make for a sleek look, it doesn’t provide the same level of stability as a crossbar lower on the frame.
An added feature of a lower crossbar, one that really comes in handy, is that you can use it as a footrest while you’re sitting. We’ve designed our RISE UP desk with an optional, removable low-level crossbar, letting you make the decision to use it or not. If you feel like you need some extra stability or want a footrest, go ahead and include the crossbar during installation. If you want a more minimalist look, you can leave it off. Our desk is designed for best-in-class stability at any height.
5. Desktop Details
You’ll most commonly see desktops made of cheap laminate, which is not only unattractive, but also contains toxins such as formaldehyde. The off gassing smells bad and can cause health issues, particularly for those with chemical sensitivities. You may want to opt for a clean, natural desktop, like eco-friendly bamboo. In addition to its beauty and durability, bamboo is one of the most sustainable materials on earth.
There you have it! We believe that a good-looking, safe desk with a lot of power and stability is one that works best for everyone. Please be in touch if we can help you with any questions about buying a standing desk, or any other ergonomic best practices.