IKEA offers a dynamic, ergonomic, and versatile solution of standing desks that cater to a variety of work needs and personal preferences. But are they worth the investment? Especially in a market with similar superior brands like Desky, UpDown, and NorthDay?
In this review, we'll evaluate if IKEA's standing desks available for sale in Australia truly reflect the brand's reputation for quality, design, and affordability. I will inspect each model under our microscope to give you a comprehensive understanding, aiding you in making an informed decision for your workspace upgrade.
Understanding the IKEA Phenomenon
Founded in Sweden, IKEA has become a global symbol for its democratic design ethos – the blend of form, function, quality, and sustainability, all at a price low enough for many people. Here's what makes IKEA unique:
Variety and Customisation
IKEA's vast catalogue offers a plethora of styles, sizes, and finishes to choose from. From minimalistic design to more classic aesthetics, the brand caters to a wide range of customer preferences. Their collection of standing desks is no different, offering a level of adaptability that is hard to rival.
Assembly Experience
Known for its flat-pack furniture design, IKEA has revolutionised the furniture industry with its do-it-yourself (DIY) assembly concept. Despite the complex appearance, IKEA products are designed for easy assembly, with detailed instructions included to ensure a seamless setup.
Sustainability Commitment
IKEA takes great pride in its sustainability efforts, with a significant portion of its products, including the standing desks, made from environmentally-friendly materials and responsibly sourced wood.
Global Presence
IKEA's global footprint is impressive, with stores in over 50 countries worldwide. It continues to be a trusted choice for consumers seeking functional, stylish, and affordable furniture.
Localised Manufacturing
IKEA invests in local manufacturing in many of the countries it operates in. This commitment not only supports local economies but also reduces the carbon footprint linked with the long-distance transportation of goods.
Innovation and Design
IKEA’s ongoing commitment to innovation is reflected in its various collaborations with designers and artists worldwide. The company also regularly revamps its product range to stay ahead of design trends and meet changing customer needs.
Community Engagement
Across the world, IKEA actively engages in community initiatives. It takes part in numerous sustainability projects and supports social entrepreneurs, contributing to local development.
IKEA Standing Desks
I conducted a comprehensive evaluation of IKEA's premium height adjustable desks to form a conclusive opinion of the brand. Let's explore the unique features and benefits that each desk brings to the table.
1. IKEA Bekant Standing Desk
Versatile and Elegant Standing Desk
The IKEA Bekant Standing Desk encapsulates the minimalistic design aesthetic with a variety of tabletop finishes to match any home or office space. The stained ash veneer gives a more sophisticated touch compared to the basic white and linoleum options. Even so, the desk's overall appeal is let down by the use of plastic parts that degrade its premium look.
Bekant features steel legs in a T-frame layout and an adjustable height range from 65 to 125cm. The handy undertray for cable management is also a nice touch, although its pop rivets don't seem to be the most durable solution. And while most IKEA products have a straightforward assembly process, Bekant was an exception. I encountered misaligned bolt holes, which made for a challenging build. This could be an isolated issue, but it raises questions about IKEA's quality control.
Performance, Price & Availability
While the Bekant looks substantial, its stability leaves room for improvement. The desk wobbles when it encounters movement or vibrations, which can be unsettling, especially when housing expensive equipment. Still, the desk handles its maximum load of 70kg well and provides plenty of room for a multi-monitor setup or desktop PC.
Height adjustments are smooth and relatively quick as well. But the lack of programmable settings on the keypad meant I had to hold down the up or down button for the entire duration of adjustment. This can become a minor inconvenience in the long run. The IKEA Bekant is priced at the higher end of the spectrum, with the smallest 120 x 60cm model starting at AUD $579. Given its premium price tag, I expected more advanced features.
Customisability and Accessorising
The Bekant standing desk by IKEA also embraces a robust level of personalisation, allowing you to tailor the desk to suit your workspace's aesthetic and functional needs. A highlight of this model is its various tabletop finishes - from a modest white to a chic stained oak veneer, giving you a range of styles to choose from. Black and white frame options further contribute to the desk's adaptability, making it a versatile addition to any home office or professional setting.
In addition to its design flexibility, the Bekant desk shines in its compatibility with a range of accessories, fitting seamlessly into the broader IKEA ecosystem. From monitor stands to drawer units, this desk can be equipped with a variety of accessories to enhance workspace organisation and comfort. However, the lack of a more sophisticated cable management system may require additional planning or third-party solutions to maintain a tidy workspace.
Despite some room for improvement, the Bekant standing desk does an admirable job of balancing form and function. Its customisability and adaptability, coupled with IKEA's extensive range of matching accessories, make it a promising contender in the standing desk market.
Is IKEA Bekant Worth It?
The IKEA Bekant Standing Desk has several attractive qualities, such as its modern design and customisation options. However, its drawbacks, including a lack of advanced features, questionable quality control, and a higher price tag, may outweigh the benefits. If you are seeking a feature-rich standing desk with lesser drawbacks, you might want to consider the UpDown Pro Desk or the Stand Desk Pro.
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Wide array of customisation options
- Ample space for desktop and legroom
- Acceptable maximum height
Cons
- Keypad functionality is basic
- Construction feels less sturdy
- Questionable quality control and material
2. IKEA IDÅSEN Sit/Stand Desk
Best for Efficient and Comfortable Work Sessions
The IKEA IDÅSEN Sit/Stand Desk has a sturdy construction and generous workspace. Its adjustable height feature, ranging from 63 to 127 cm, ensures that you can find the most comfortable position, whether sitting or standing. The surface, crafted from particle and fibreboard with honeycomb paper filling, also boasts a sleek ash veneer, making it not only durable and stain-resistant but easy to clean.
Like the IKEA Rodulf, the IDÅSEN desk has a cable management net located under the tabletop. This keeps cables out of sight and your workspace organised. IKEA's IDÅSEN Sit/Stand Desk was relatively easy to assemble, with clear instructions provided. Depending on your handiness, the assembly could take anywhere between 45 to 180 minutes. While it is a heavy piece of furniture, the solid construction and high-quality build promise a desk that will serve you for many years.
Performance, Price & Availability
The IDÅSEN desk performs as expected, allowing you to transition seamlessly from sitting to standing positions with ease. The desk height can be adjusted manually or controlled remotely via the Desk Control app. Nevertheless, I faced some disconnections as the app occasionally experiences Bluetooth connectivity issues. Plus, the desk's height adjustment mechanism could be louder than anticipated. Despite these minor issues, I were impressed with the desk's performance, stability, and ease of use.
Priced at $949, the IKEA IDÅSEN Sit/Stand Desk stands as a premium choice among sit/stand desks. While it may carry a slightly higher price tag than other alternatives, the desk's outstanding value becomes evident through its intelligent features, robust build, and spacious work area.
For those seeking an option that addresses IDÅSEN's drawbacks, the NorthDay EverDesk is a highly recommended alternative. Delivering on the promise of quality, the standing desk offers innovative design and functionality at a slightly lesser price point, making it another top contender in the market.
Customisability and Accessorising
With four colour options available, the IDÅSEN desk offers a degree of customisability to suit your home and office aesthetics. While the desk doesn't include any specific accessories, the ample workspace it provides allows you to set up multiple monitors or use an expansive mouse pad to protect the surface.
Is the IKEA IDÅSEN Worth It?
Given its thoughtful design, smart features, and sturdy construction, the IKEA IDÅSEN Sit/Stand Desk is certainly worth considering. Although it has a few minor setbacks, the overall performance, convenience, and aesthetic appeal of this desk make it a valuable investment for a productive and comfortable home office setup. Its durability is backed by a 10-year guarantee, further emphasising IKEA's confidence in its product.
Pros
- Easy to adjust with manual handle and optional smart control
- Cable management system keeps the workspace tidy
- Large and durable surface suitable for an array of work tasks
- Stylish and robust design that's built to last
- Compatible with the Desk Control app for easy height adjustment
Cons
- Slightly hefty, restricting easy movement once installed
- The Desk Control app sometimes loses Bluetooth connectivity
- The movement mechanism may be louder than expected
3. IKEA Trotten Standing Desk
Manual Height Adjustment Standing Desk
Ikea's Trotten standing desk has a rectangular top and matching legs; it maintains a neat aesthetic that's ideal for those who appreciate simplicity. The desk doesn't have any cutouts or openings for cable management, which could be a challenge if you have a number of peripherals. You also get two colour options for the table-top and legs, which is modest at best. Ikea's Trotten can only bear up to 50kg weight, which is lighter than other models. But unless you plan to load it excessively, it should suffice for most needs.
Putting together the Ikea Trotten may be time-consuming, despite not having motorised components. The assembly involves installing brackets underneath the desktop and attaching the legs and feet. The assembly manual is fairly straightforward, presented in traditional IKEA style with mostly pictograms and minimal text, appealing to a broad audience. The necessary Allen wrenches are provided, but you'll need to get your own Phillips head screwdriver.
Performance, Price & Availability
The Trotten's distinguishing feature is its manual crank mechanism for height adjustment. In our experience, the mechanism functioned smoothly and consistently, although significant height adjustments would involve a good deal of cranking. The crank conveniently tucks away beneath the desk when not in use.
For pricing, Trotten costs only $340 AUD. You can opt for either a beige or white top, with legs in white or black. A larger version of the desk is available at $380 AUD. Should you have a spare desktop, the base frame alone can be bought for $270 AUD. But before you make a decision, take a minute to read our in-depth Artiss Sit-Stand Desk review, another excellent standing desk that offers more at a slightly higher price point.
Customisability and Accessorising
As with most IKEA products, Trotten's customisation options are quite minimal. With only two choices each for table-top and leg colours, the range is narrow compared to other standing desks. This desk, therefore, is ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and ease of choice.
Is the IKEA Trotten Worth It?
If you're in the market for a no-nonsense, functional standing desk that won't break the bank, the Ikea Trotten is a compelling choice. It offers a clean aesthetic and smooth operation, although the trade-off is a lack of customisation options and a lighter weight capacity. However, if you value simplicity and affordability, the Trotten could be just the desk for you. While examining the value of IKEA standing desks, it may be beneficial to consider other brands as well.
Pros
- Streamlined design for minimalist aesthetics
- Manual crank mechanism operates smoothly
- Highly affordable within the standing desk market
- Easy-to-follow assembly instructions
- Convenient crank storage under the desk
Cons
- Limited customisation options
- Supports less weight than some standing desks
- No integrated cable management system
4. IKEA Rodulf Standing Desk
Best for Smooth Sit/Stand Transition
The Rodulf desk by IKEA allows you to effortlessly transition between standing and sitting positions with an electric height adjustment feature. The height of the tabletop can be electrically modified from 70 to 117 cm, with a cable management net under the tabletop to keep your workspace tidy. Note, however, that the space in the provided netting might be insufficient to hold all the cables from a regular work desk.
Regardless, the Rodulf Standing Desk is robust and spacious enough to accommodate two monitors, a laptop, and a wireless keyboard, making it ideal for office or home use. It is competitively priced at $499 AUD, available only in a grey/white colour combination, which might limit your options if you wish to match your desk with other office furniture.
With an electric height adjustment feature, a 10-year guarantee, and a sturdy design, the IKEA Rodulf standing desk makes a strong case for itself. The limitations in assembly and customisation are slight trade-offs for an otherwise robust and ergonomically designed desk. Therefore, if you're looking for a reliable sit/stand desk that caters to your physical well-being during work, the Rodulf is certainly worth considering.
Pros
- Provides both standing and sitting options for improved physical and mental wellbeing
- Electrically adjustable height for ergonomic comfort
- Cable management net under the table for a neat and tidy workspace
- Durable and sturdy for office use
- Backed by a 10-year guarantee
Cons
- The assembly might be slightly challenging
- Limited space for cable management in provided netting
- Only available in one colour
- The tabletop could be thicker for enhanced aesthetics
5. IKEA Gladhöjden Sit/Stand Desk
Minimal Standing Desk Design
The IKEA Gladhöjden, with its sleek, matte finish, embodies simplicity and style. Light grey/anthracite and white are the two colour options for this compact desk. The tabletop, measuring 100 cm by 60 cm, offers a generous work surface that can comfortably house a computer monitor. It's also crafted with a durable, stain-resistant melamine surface that is easy to keep clean, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The standout feature of the sit/stand desk is its gas spring operation, which raises and lowers the tabletop silently and smoothly.
You can adjust the height of the IKEA Gladhöjden Sit/Stand Desk between 72 and 115 cm by lightly pushing the table top up or down while holding the handle. When set, the desk provides a stable workspace, with rubber feet keeping the base firmly in place. To assemble, the desk comes with detailed instructions, and, despite some difficulties due to the tool shape and screw labelling, it's manageable with a bit of patience. IKEA also offers support and is receptive to customer queries and issues in this area (my team reached out to them a few times).
The Gladhöjden is priced at $349, offering a budget-friendly sit/stand desk option. With its compact, minimalist design and manual operation, the IKEA Gladhöjden desk is a practical and cost-effective solution for those seeking a sit/stand desk, especially for smaller spaces. Though it might not be ideal for those needing to load the desk heavily, with a load capacity of only 10kg, its easy adjustability, smooth performance, and affordable price make it a worthy contender in the market for sit/stand desks.
Pros
- Compact and versatile for smaller spaces
- Gas spring operation offers smooth, quiet adjustments
- No need for electricity - can be placed anywhere
- Deep table top for a comfortable workspace
- Durable, stain-resistant melamine surface
Cons
- Manual operation
- Limited load capacity (10kg)
- Some assembly challenges reported
So, Are IKEA Standing Desks Worth It?
In most cases, IKEA standing desks are a commendable investment for those seeking to infuse their work routine with more movement. They strike a fairly harmonious balance between cost-effectiveness, practicality, and aesthetics. Let's now compare the available IKEA standing desks qualities with other options on the market:
Build Quality
The build quality of IKEA's standing desk offerings is decent. They are in the mid to upper price range, reflecting their solid construction and the reliability of their height-adjustment mechanisms. IKEA also offers some more budget-friendly models without compromising quality, making standing desks accessible for a wider range of customers.
IKEA places great importance on striking a balance between quality and affordability. When comparing their high-end options to similarly priced models in Australia, brands like UpDown, NorthDay, and Desky have a slight edge over IKEA, as they prioritise quality with only limited emphasis on affordability.
Customisation
Customisation is a strong point for IKEA standing desks. With a range of styles, sizes, and colours, you can easily find a desk that fits your personal taste and workspace requirements. Their robust and simplistic design is a testament to IKEA's iconic minimalist approach, which blends seamlessly with various home and office interiors.
As for accessories, IKEA falls short in offering a wide range of desk accessories to complement its desk options. This can be a bit of a pain point, as it might require you to search for third-party accessories, which may or may not perfectly fit your desk, in order to maximise the desk's functionality.
Value for Money
The popularity of IKEA's standing desks is not only due to their practicality but also their trendiness. IKEA's standing desks harmonise well with modern office and home workspaces, contributing to a stylish and efficient work environment all while being budget-friendly. Rarely do you pay above the value their sit-stand desks offer. Besides this, there's the comprehensive customer service IKEA provides, including their returns policy and assembly assistance, ensuring a satisfying and secure purchase experience.
The Verdict:
If you are setting up a home office and seeking cost-effective standing desks for your workspace, IKEA offers several excellent options that are undoubtedly worthwhile. They also provide high-quality height-adjustable desks catering to both premium users and office workstations. However, in the space of high-end standing desks, we've found that most competition in Australia offers better choices at comparable or slightly higher price points.
If you're building a new home office or are upgrading your furniture, our guide on the best ergonomic chairs in Australia has detailed comparisons of the best options to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about IKEA desks.
Is IKEA Bekant strong?
The IKEA Bekant series is designed to be sturdy and durable. Its frame is made from steel, and the tabletop is from particleboard, both robust materials. The Bekant standing desk has a weight limit of 70kg, indicating its strength and capacity to handle various work equipment.
Is IKEA adjustable desk good?
IKEA's adjustable desks, including the Bekant and Idåsen lines, are generally well-regarded for their functionality, quality, and value for money. They offer the flexibility of sitting and standing work options, feature a simple yet stylish design, and are known for their durability.
How much should I spend on a sit-stand desk?
The amount you should spend on a sit-stand desk depends on your budget and needs. A good quality sit-stand desk can range from a few hundred to over a thousand Australian dollars. Consider factors like the desk's durability, adjustment mechanism, size, and added features when making your decision.
Darren Sherwood
Wrapping Up
To sum up, IKEA's standing desks are indeed a valuable consideration for those seeking an affordable, reliable, and stylish solution for their workspace needs. They encapsulate the essentials of an adjustable desk without being prohibitively expensive. Their blend of quality, style, and budget-friendliness makes them an appealing choice in the increasingly popular standing desk market.
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