How We Conduct Standing Desk Reviews

We understand the importance of a good working environment, and that’s why we take the time to carefully evaluate all work-from-home products we review to ensure they meet industry standards and are ideal for use.

In this blog post, I will walk through the review process of our standing desk reviews to give a better understanding of why thousands of customers rely on them to make a purchase decision.

Our 5-Step Review System

To evaluate adjustable desks, we have adopted a 5-step review process that helps us thoroughly evaluate the available options on the market and shortlist the best based on selected and fool-proof criteria.

Here's how we do that:

1. We run thorough market research
2. We use a variety of criteria and put the desks on long-term home testing
3. We rate the desks on a scale of 1-5
4. We take into account user feedback
5. We update our reviews regularly

We'll go over each of these steps in detail below to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect with each purchase.

Step 1: We run thorough market research

Our standing desk review process begins with extensive research to identify the latest features, consumer feedback and reviews. We make a list of all the standing desks that catch our attention, taking into account their popularity, brand reputation, and price range. Then, we narrow down the list to a few of the best standing desks that are worth reviewing.

Step 2: We use a variety of criteria and put the desks on long-term home testing

Having narrowed down our list of standing desks from the initial market research, we further evaluated them against a set of criteria to shortlist them. We believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to standing desks. That’s why we use a variety of criteria to evaluate each standing desk. The top picks are categorised by their best use case so you easily decide which best suits your needs.

For the majority of the desks that we recommend, we have physically tested the desks ourselves - some of these for the long term, keeping at least two side by side in the same office area.

Where necessary, we have also discussed product features with experts and field professionals to better understand the tradeoffs of each standing desk. These include ergonomic specialists, physical therapists, office furniture experts, workplace consultants, and other individuals who have personal experience using standing desks.

Below are the 12 crucial features we look out for when evaluating standing desks.

#1. Height adjustability

Height adjustability is the most important factor to consider before purchasing a standing desk. We believe that a good standing desk should allow you to adjust the height easily and comfortably to ensure proper ergonomics. Standing desks are designed in a way to provide the users with more than one height setting.

The height adjustment for most standing desks falls in the range of 60 cm to 127 cm, making them suitable for almost all-height users in both sitting and standing positions. This 67 cm distance (i.e., the difference in the range) covered between these extremes is known as a ‘stroke’. The higher the stroke, the more versatile it becomes for users with different heights.

#2. Stability

A wobbly desk is not only annoying but also potentially dangerous. We evaluate each desk’s stability to make sure it can handle the weight of your computer, monitor, and other accessories. A sit-stand desk must be wobble-free at all height settings.

We focus on critically evaluating the factors that contribute to the stability of a standing desk, such as the frame design, frame base material quality, desktop width, and maximum height position. Some companies even offer adjustable feet to level the desk if the floor is uneven.

#3. Load Capacity

The weight-bearing capacity is the amount of weight (in kg) a standing desk can withstand without the risk of damage or overheating. The lift capacity of a desk is directly correlated to its durability and reliability. A higher lift capacity indicates a stronger lifting mechanism that can handle heavier loads without compromising its stability.

Different standing desks have different capacities to withstand weight, ranging from 100 kg (like the Artiss Desk) to 150 kg (like the UpDown Pro Desk). Load capacity is of prime importance in desks with electric height adjustment features since they tend to be in line with the motor strength. A 100-kg dynamic load capacity is enough for many users. But depending on the use case, others require a larger weight capacity.

#4. Lift speed

The lift speed is the speed of the desk while moving from one height to another. It is usually measured in centimetres per second or inches per second. For electric standing desks, lift speed may vary from 2 cm/s (like in Agile Electric 2-column) to 8 cm/s (like in Stand Desk Pro). The lift speed may decrease as the amount of weight on the top increases.

Some companies include the Rated Lift capacity of the desk, which refers to the weight a standing desk can withstand without affecting the travel speed. For manual standing desks, about 5 turns of the crank raise the desk to 2 cm in height. However, more force is required to turn the lever if the weight on the desk is high.

#5. Ergonomics

In our assessment of standing desks, we prioritise ergonomic solutions that promote the well-being of their users. We pay close attention to desks with contoured edge designs that provide arm support and enhance your proximity to your workspace. Additionally, we consider desks equipped with adjustable monitor arms and ergonomic keyboard trays, which enhance productivity and ensure a comfortable workstation experience for you.

The standing desk should also support the proper positioning of your monitor(s) at eye level to avoid straining your neck and eyes. It should include effective cable management features that help keep your workspace organised and free from clutter. This ensures that cables do not obstruct your movements and reduces the risk of tripping hazards.

Other offerings can include anti-fatigue mats and accessory boards to keep you comfortable and productive by your standing desk. We evaluate how compatible these offerings are, how much value they add to your experience, and the cost of these accessories, where applicable.

#6. Noise level

Electric standing desks create some amount of noise at the time of height adjustment, primarily caused by the motor mechanism. The intensity of sound depends upon the quality and the type of motor. Expect noise ranges from 40 dB to 80 dB. A noise level of 60dB can be compared to the sound of a normal conversation or the background noise in a busy office. If that is distracting to you, then choose standing desks with a lower decibel.

Our standing desk reviews factor the level of noise into the evaluation of shortlisted products from our market research. As a result, our recommended products do not cross 60dB. Examples include the UpDown Pro (40dB) and Stand Desk Pro (45dB).

#7. Customisability

Different manufacturers offer different customisation options. To help you make the best decision, we picked some of the best standing desks from the market with necessary customisable options and tested each product with multiple configurations before writing our reviews.

#8. Controller

Standing desk controllers can be electric or manual, with a crank or with a control panel. For control panels, some old electric desks have just two; up and down buttons for moving the desk, while modern electric desks have more advanced options. They may feature digital readouts with memory preset functions, so you can save one to four different heights to easily switch between standing and sitting.

A standing desk can have different control mechanisms as part of its customisable features. You may choose between the manual standing desk that uses a crank or an electric desk with preset options. These are, however, priced in addition to the base cost of the standing desk. For example, Stand Desk Pro has 2 presets, Northday EverDesk has 3, and Desky Dual has 4, but all are good-quality standing desks.

#9. Leg spacing

Leg spacing is specifically important if you are planning to use the desk with an under-desk treadmill. In our evaluation of the leg spacing in a standing desk, we consider a few factors. First, the distance between the legs must provide enough room for comfortable movement and leg positioning while standing or sitting. It should accommodate different body sizes and allow for proper leg posture.

Additionally, we consider the width of the leg spacing to ensure stability and balance of the desk, especially when it is at its highest height position. A wider leg spacing generally offers better stability, reducing the risk of wobbling or tipping over.

Finally, we look for any crossbars or support structures between the legs that may affect legroom and foot placement. These should be positioned in a way that doesn't restrict leg movement or cause discomfort.

#9. Ease of assembly

Nobody wants to spend hours trying to assemble a standing desk. Thus, we evaluate each desk’s assembly process to make sure it’s straightforward. The amount of time and effort required to assemble the desk must be short, and the assembly guide should be comprehensive yet easy to skim through.

Some desks require a power drill, while some desks come with pre-drilled holes. Some desks are lightweight enough for one person assembly while some are heavy and require two persons to complete the job. The less time and effort needed for assembly, the better will be the standing desk. Some companies also offer Desk Installation Services at an additional cost.

#10. Value for money

Here, we compare the price with the features and specifications offered by the desk, assessing whether the desk offers value for money based on its quality, durability, and functionality. Then we consider the materials used in construction, such as the frame and desktop, and ensure they are of good quality for long-term use.

Additionally, we compare the price of the standing desk with similar models from different brands to get a sense of the market average per the features offered. We also look for any additional costs or hidden fees, such as shipping or assembly charges, that may affect the overall price. It's also worth considering the warranty provided by the manufacturer, as a longer warranty period can add value to the desk.

#11. Return policy

When evaluating the return policy for standing desks, we consider the duration of the return window, looking for a reasonable timeframe like the 100-day return policy offered on the UpDown Pro and Stand Desk Pro desks. We also pay attention to any specific requirements or conditions for returning the product, such as the need for original packaging or proof of purchase.

Additionally, we examine whether the return shipping costs are covered by the company or if they need to be borne by us or the user. Lastly, we consider the refund process, checking for promptness and clarity in terms of how and when the refund will be issued.

#12. Warranty

Our final criterion for shortlisting desks from our market research is evaluating their warranty. First, we check the duration of the warranty. A longer warranty period indicates that the manufacturer has confidence in the quality and durability of their product.

We look for warranties that cover a significant period, such as 5 years or more. Then, we examine what exactly is covered under the warranty. Does it cover only certain components of the desk, such as the motor or frame, or does it provide comprehensive coverage for the entire desk? We need to ensure that the warranty covers any potential defects in materials or workmanship.

It's also important for us to understand the terms and conditions of the warranty if there are any limitations or exclusions, such as damage caused by misuse or modifications, and if the warranty requires specific maintenance or usage guidelines to remain valid. We also consider the reputation and customer service of the manufacturer. Only reviewing standing desks from companies that have a track record of honouring their warranties.

Step 3. We rate the desk on a scale of 1 to 5

Once we have evaluated each standing desk based on the specific criteria that we have outlined, we rate each on a scale, taking into account its pros and cons. This scale allows us to provide a clear ranking system that enables readers to see how each standing desk performs compared to its competition.

Our rating system ranges from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 being the highest possible rating. Each desk is rated based on a combination of factors. It’s worth noting that we don’t simply hand out top ratings to the most expensive or the most popular standing desks on the market. Instead, we strive to provide an honest and unbiased assessment of each desk.

Here are the standing desk features that influence our desk ranking:

• Build quality: How well the standing desk is constructed, how sturdy and stable it is, and how durable it is over time. A high-quality standing desk should be able to withstand frequent use and adjustment without breaking or wobbling.
• Aesthetics: How the standing desk looks, how it fits with the rest of the office or home decor, and how it enhances the user’s comfort and productivity. A good-looking standing desk should have a sleek design, a smooth finish, and a pleasing colour scheme.
• Cable management: How the standing desk manages cords from the various devices and accessories. A good cable management system should keep the cables organised, hidden, and out of the way, preventing clutter and tangling.
• Customisability: The number of customisable features available to the user. A customisable standing desk should have features such as height adjustment, tilt adjustment, keyboard tray, monitor arm, and other add-ons that allow the user to create their ideal workstation.
• Weight capacity: How much weight the standing desk can support without compromising its stability or performance. A good weight capacity standing desk should be able to hold multiple devices without sagging or shaking.
• Ease of assembly: How easy it is to set up out of the box, how clear and simple the instructions are, and how long it takes to complete the assembly. An easy-to-assemble standing desk should require minimal tools, parts, and steps and should be ready to use in a short time.
• Value for money: How the standing desk compares to other similar products in terms of quality, features, and price. A good value-for-money standing desk should offer the right balance between performance and affordability.
• Return policy: How the standing desk manufacturer handles returns, exchanges, refunds, and customer service. A good return policy should be flexible, generous, and hassle-free, allowing users the opportunity to change their minds or resolve any issues with their purchase.
• Warranty: How long the standing desk is covered by the manufacturer’s guarantee against defects or malfunctions. A good warranty should be long-lasting, comprehensive, and easy to claim, providing the user with peace of mind and protection for their investment.

Our goal is to provide the readers with all the information they need to make an informed purchase decision based on their specific needs and preferences. So, whether you are looking for a standing desk for your home office, corporate workspace, or a hybrid option, our rating system has you covered.

Step 4. We take into account user feedback

Customer feedback is essential to creating an honest and unbiased review of standing desks. When evaluating standing desks, we look for customer feedback to help form our final rating. This can be in the form of surveys or online reviews.

Some common things we look for include:

• How easy was the desk to set up?
• Was it comfortable to stand for extended periods?
• Are there any notable downsides or areas for improvement?

By gathering feedback from multiple sources, we’re able to get a comprehensive view of each standing desk and how it performs in real-world scenarios. Of course, it’s important to note that not all feedbacks are equal. We take care to consider the validity of each response, ensuring that outliers and unrepresentative comments are not given undue weight.

User feedback allows us to incorporate the experience of the other users into our evaluations to make recommendations that are grounded in reality.

Step 5: We update our reviews regularly

We understand that the product evolves, customer feedback changes and new designs emerge. That’s why we’re committed to updating our reviews regularly, ensuring that we always provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to our readers. We constantly keep an eye on new product releases and evolving industry trends, which allows us to update our reviews regularly and provide our readers with the most accurate and current information possible.

When updating reviews, we revisit each standing desk we’ve previously evaluated and conduct a new round of testing. We also research any updates or changes to the product itself, such as if the manufacturer has released a new model or made any significant changes to the existing design. We also take user feedback into account when updating the reviews, paying special attention to any recurring themes, both positive and negative.

Staying on top of these changes takes time and effort, but it’s crucial to ensure our readers have the most current information possible, and this includes the best prices to get each standing desk. When shopping for a standing desk, we want our readers to feel confident that they’re making a well-informed decision.

Summary

We take standing desk reviews very seriously, as these desks have a significant impact on a person’s workday, productivity, and overall health. That’s why we’ve developed a thorough and effective review process. This is how we ensure our readers are always informed about the latest and best standing desks to bet on.