Electric standing desk buying guide
Standing desks offer an alternative to prolonged sitting. However, with many models available, it can be difficult to choose. The Electric Standing Desk buying guide looks at the key features and buying considerations to help you choose the right sit-stand desk.
Desktop
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Desk frame
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Desk accessories
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What is a standing desk?
A standing desk is a type of desk that can be adjusted in height to allow the user to work standing or sitting. These desks are designed to provide an alternative to prolonged sitting, which can have negative health effects such as back pain, blood circulation problems and reduced mental concentration.
These desks allow alternating sitting and standing, which can improve the health, productivity and general well-being of the user. They can be manually or electrically height adjustable and can include additional features such as keyboard and mouse platforms and storage for office supplies.
Choosing an electric desk
How to choose a standing desk ?
─ The work surface
Make sure the work surface is large enough to meet your needs and that it is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
─ The adjustment system
Check whether the desk is manually or electrically height adjustable and choose the one that best suits your preferences.
─ Stability
Choose a solid and stable desk to avoid the risk of tipping or falling.
─ The height
Make sure the desk can be adjusted to the appropriate height for your height and preferences.
─ The budget
Standing desks can be expensive, so it’s important to define your budget and research the options that best suit your needs and your wallet.
─ Additional features
Consider additional features such as keyboard and mouse platforms and storage space for office supplies.
─ Charging capacity
A sturdy top is essential for a sit-stand desk, as it must support the weight of the user and the objects placed on the desk, thus ensuring stability and safety.
─ The design
A good design for a standing desk can improve the well-being and productivity of the user, while reducing the long-term risks associated with poor posture.
─ Storage of connectors
Tidying up cables can prevent accidents and damage to equipment, while promoting a clean and organised working environment that can improve concentration and productivity.
What types of standing desks are there ?
Electric desk
This type of desk is equipped with an electric motor that allows the height of the desk to be adjusted at the touch of a button.
Cranking desk
A crank desk is a height-adjustable desk that uses a crank to adjust the height of the work surface.
Gas strut office
This type of desk uses gas struts to adjust the height of the desk. These desks are cheaper than electric desks, but less accurate.
How does a standing desk work ?
Function 1
Electric motor
The desk is equipped with an electric motor that allows the height of the worktop to be adjusted by pressing a button on the control box. This allows a user to adjust the height to their liking.
Function 2
Control buttons
The control buttons can be mounted on the desk or in a position accessible to the user. It allows the user to choose the desired position with one click.
Function 3
Programming the buttons
Some models of electric standing desks offer the option of saving preferred working heights to facilitate future adjustments.
Security
Electric standing desks are usually equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidents and property damage in case of overload or overheating of the motor.
Health and well-being
What are the benefits of a standing desk ?
Health and well-being
Electric standing desks are designed to alternate between sitting and standing, which can help relieve muscle tension, stimulate blood circulation and improve posture.
Back pain is a real scourge and maintaining a correct posture while sitting for several hours is almost impossible, which can cause muscle tension and neck and back pain. To solve this problem, ergonomic products such as electric sit-stand desks are indispensable.
By changing your posture regularly, you can reduce back pain by using the muscles in your body differently. By alternating between sitting and standing, you can avoid slouching at your computer and maintain good posture. It is advisable to set an alarm every two hours to change position.
In addition to relieving back pain, the electric sit-stand desk also has a positive impact on your concentration. The oxygenation of the brain stimulates the intellectual faculties, while the posture adjustment offers a moment of dynamism beneficial to your productivity. Standing improves thinking skills and promotes concentration.
Comfortable to use
How can the comfort of a standing desk be improved ?
─ Adjust the height of the desk
It is important that the height of the desk is set correctly so that you can work comfortably. The height of the desk should be adjusted so that your arms are at a 90 degree angle.
─ Choose a comfortable chair
It is important to choose a chair that allows you to sit comfortably for long periods. An ergonomic chair with good lumbar support is recommended.
─ Use a floor mat
If you work standing for long periods of time, a floor mat can reduce the pressure on your feet and legs, allowing you to work longer without getting tired.
─ Use a footrest
If you work sitting for long periods of time, a footrest can help you maintain good posture by reducing the pressure on your legs and feet.
─ Use a keyboard stand
A keyboard stand can help reduce tension in the wrists and forearms by allowing a more natural typing position.
─ Take regular breaks
It is important to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and muscle tension. Try to take a break every 30 minutes to stretch your muscles and rest your eyes.
Read more
The standing desk in video
Frequently asked questions about sit-stand desks
How do I maintain an electric standing desk ?
To prolong the life of your electric sit-stand desk and ensure its smooth operation, here are some maintenance tips:
- Clean the desk’s work surface regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and stains.
Avoid using abrasive cleaning products or those containing chemical solvents that may damage the work surface. - Regularly lubricate the moving parts of your electric sit-stand desk, such as castors or lifting mechanisms, to prevent wear and tear and squeaking.
- Check electrical cables and plugs regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and that there is no risk of short-circuiting.
- If you notice a malfunction or unusual noise, contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician immediately to diagnose and repair the problem.
What are the best brands of standing desks ?
- Flexispot – offers a variety of height-adjustable desks, including electric and manual sit-stand desks, as well as convertible height-adjustable desks that can be placed over an existing desk.
- Songmics – offers a variety of desks, including computer desks, corner desks, sit/stand desks and gamer desks. They are generally designed for smaller spaces and include shelves for convenient storage.
- Fezibo – offers height-adjustable desks, including electric and manual sit-stand desks, as well as convertible height-adjustable desks that can be placed over an existing desk.
- Maidesite – offers electric and manual sit/stand desks, as well as a variety of sizes and colours, with quality materials such as wooden tops, steel frames and adjustable legs
- Steelcase – offers high quality electric sit/stand desks with a variety of customisation options to meet the needs of each user.
- Varidesk – offers a wide range of affordable, high quality electric sit/stand desks, with a wide variety of desk sizes available.
- Herman Miller – is known for its innovative designs and ergonomic office solutions, including high-end electric sit/stand desks.
- Uplift Desk – offers premium electric sit/stand desks with advanced features and customisation options, with a 7-year warranty.
- Autonomous – offers quality electric sit/stand desks at an affordable price, with limited customisation options but a 5 year warranty.
What is the adjustable height range of the electric standing desk ?
The adjustable height range of the electric sit/stand desk may vary depending on the model and manufacturer. In general, the adjustable height range can vary between 60 cm and 130 cm, but some desks can offer a wider range, up to 150 cm.
It is important to choose a desk with a height range that is large enough to meet your needs and those of other potential users. If you are very tall or very short, make sure the height range is appropriate for your height. If you need a desk for both standing and sitting, make sure the desk has enough height to allow you to work comfortably in both positions.
What is the maximum charging capacity of the electric standing desk ?
The maximum load capacity of an electric sit-stand desk varies depending on the model and manufacturer. In general, the maximum load capacity is between 70 kg and 150 kg.
It is important to choose a desk with sufficient load capacity to meet your needs. If you need to place several computer monitors, printers or documents on the desk, make sure that the load capacity is sufficient to support the weight of these items. It is also important to take into account the weight of your legs and arms when working in a standing position to prevent the desk from tipping over.
Be sure to check the maximum load capacity of the desk before you buy it to make sure it can meet your needs.
How long does it take to adjust the height of the electric standing desk ?
The time it takes to adjust the height of an electric sit-stand desk varies depending on the model and manufacturer. In general, the height adjustment time can vary between 20 seconds and 60 seconds.
It is important to choose a desk with a height adjustment time that suits your needs and work pace. If you need to change the height of the desk often throughout the day, you may prefer a desk with a shorter adjustment time. If you do not need to adjust the height of the desk frequently, the adjustment time may be less.
Be sure to check the adjustment time of the electric sit-stand desk before you buy it to ensure that it suits your needs and working style.
Does the electric standing desk have an anti-collision system ?
Yes, many modern electric sit/stand desks are equipped with an anti-collision system. This system uses sensors that detect obstacles in the path of the desk when it is in motion and stops the movement of the desk to avoid collisions.
The anti-collision system is an important safety feature that can help prevent accidents and protect furniture and equipment. It is recommended that you choose an electric sit-stand desk that is equipped with an anti-collision system to ensure your safety and the protection of your property.
However, it is important to note that not all electric sit/stand desks are equipped with an anti-collision system. Before purchasing an electric sit-stand desk, it is important to check whether the model you are considering is equipped with an anti-collision system or not.
What is the motor noise level of the electric standing desk ?
The motor noise level of the electric sit/stand desk varies depending on the model and manufacturer. In general, the motor noise level is around 50 dB to 70 dB, but this can vary depending on the brand and model.
To give you an idea, 50 dB is comparable to the background noise of a normal conversation, while 70 dB is comparable to a running hoover. The motor noise level of the electric sit-stand desk may be higher when it is moving up or down, but it is generally quite quiet when it is in a fixed position.
It is recommended to choose an electric sit/stand desk with a low motor noise level to avoid noise pollution at work. Before buying an electric sit/stand desk, you can check the motor noise level in the product specifications or ask the manufacturer for this information.
Does the electric standing desk come with a guarantee ?
Yes, most electric sit/stand desks come with a warranty. The length of the warranty may vary depending on the model and the manufacturer, but it is usually at least one year. Some manufacturers also offer extended warranties for their electric sit/stand desks.
The warranty can cover different types of problems such as manufacturing defects, mechanical and electrical problems, as well as damage caused during transport. It is important to read the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully before purchasing an electric sit-stand desk to understand what is covered and what is not.
It is recommended that you choose an electric sit-stand desk with a strong warranty to protect you against manufacturing defects and possible breakdowns.
What is the size of the work surface of the electric standing desk ?
The size of the work surface of an electric sit/stand desk varies depending on the model and manufacturer. Common desk sizes for electric sit-stand desks range from 120 cm to 200 cm wide and 60 cm to 80 cm deep.
The choice of work surface size depends on your needs and the space available in your office. It is important to choose an electric sit-stand desk that offers enough space for your equipment and that fits the configuration of your workspace.
Before purchasing an electric sit/stand desk, measure the space available in your office to ensure that the size of the work surface you are considering is suitable for your workspace and needs.
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