How Many Types of Standing Desks are there? (Top 6 Most Popular Variants)

How Many Types of Standing Desks are there

Whether you’re looking to boost your productivity or improve your posture, a standing desk can be an outstanding addition to your workspace. 

However, anything in this world which has benefits will have multiple versions of it to suit the needs of every individual.

The same goes for standing desks; there are various types of standing desks available in the market. And, with each type of standing desk comes a different set of pros and cons. In this article, we’ll break down the different kinds of standing desk options, so that you should know how many types of standing desks are there, thus helping you in choosing the best one for your needs.

Benefits of Standing Desk

Before we go ahead, I must tell you some of the significant benefits of using a standing desk, ranging from healthy ergonomics to increased productivity. Let’s dive in and explore some of these advantages in more detail.

Healthy

One main and the most important benefit of using a standing desk is that you become more active throughout the day, which can lead to an improved lifestyle and better health. I have experienced this first-hand and seen positive changes in my health since switching to a standing desk; good posture, reduced back pain, increased blood flow, etc. In general, standing desks are much better for your health than sitting down for prolonged periods of time. In short, it tunes your body to continuously exert in order to burn more calories than you burn while sitting.

Customizable

Standing desks are quite customizable and generally come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs. Whether you want a small desk for your home office or a large one for your corporate office, there’s a standing desk out there for you.

I’ve done extensive research into the best standing desk options out there in terms of both ergonomics and budget, so rest assured, knowing that whichever option you choose will be the best possible fit for you.

Enhanced Productivity

Standing desks can help you be more productive by reducing distractions and improving your focus. As research says that we become more focused when we are standing as compared to sitting. They also help promote a healthy work-life balance by allowing you to transition between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Posture Correction

Among the many reasons to use a standing desk, one of the best benefits is that it combats bad posture. Posture directly impacts your health as poor posture can lead to back and neck pain, as well as a plethora of other illnesses. A standing desk is a key to maintaining proper positioning and improving your health.

Employees who sit for prolonged periods often suffer from gravity-induced problems like pressure on the hips and spine. When you raise your computer screen and work materials up to chest level, you can avoid these issues altogether.

Improved Workspace Ergonomics

Another benefit of the adjustable standing desks is that they can improve your workplace ergonomics. Workspace ergonomics acts as a backbone to your productivity and health while at work. As spending a lot of time sitting at a desk can lead to problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome and eye strain, thus eventually affecting your productivity. Standing desks can help reduce your risk of these problems by allowing you to stand up and move around throughout the day, eventually keeping the blodd flowing.

For indepth, guide on complete advantages of standing desk, you can check out our guide here.

What are the different types of standing desks?

Now that we’ve gone over some of the benefits of using a standing desk, let’s look at the available standing desk types, so that you can choose which type of standing desk will suit you the most. We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type so that you can choose the best one for your needs.

1. Fixed standing desks

Fixed Standing Desk

As the name tells, fixed standing desks have a set height and cannot be adjusted. Typically, these are the most affordable option for a desk. However, keep in mind that comfortability may vary from person to person since the desk cannot accommodate different heights. 

But if you’re looking for a basic yet effective standing desk on a budget, then you can surely opt for fixed height standing desk.

Pros

  • Budget-Friendly option
  • Additional storage & shelves
  • It can be placed anywhere
  • Best fit for laptop users

Cons

  • Not height adjustable
  • Limited space for Monitor(s)

2. Manually Operated Sit Stand Desks (Hand Cranked)

Manually Operated Hand Cranked Standing Desk

A hand cranked sit stand desk is a great option as these desks have a lever that you can use to adjust the desk’s height, so you can switch between sitting and standing as often as you’d like. And since they’re manually operated, they’re usually more affordable than electric sit stand desks.

You would be wondering why we call this desk a “Hand Cranked” desk. The mechanism used in this height adjustable standing desk is a hand-operated one where you need to use a handle to raise or lower the desktop.

If you plan to use this type of standing desk for longer, make sure that the mechanism is easy for you to operate. Moreover, do not forget to test the desk before you buy it.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
  • Can be placed anywhere
  • Can move around easily

Cons

  • Time-consuming adjustment
  • Less features

3. Electric Sit Stand Desks

Electric Standing Desk

Electric sit-stand desks are the way to go and the most popular option if you’re looking for the Cadillac of standing desks. These desks have a motorized mechanism that allows you to adjust the desk’s height with a push of a button. They’re also generally the most feature-rich option, with plenty of bells and whistles to choose from.

Just imagine yourself working in your home office and taking a break to raise your desk so you can stand up and stretch your legs. How convenient would that be?

Or what if you have a client coming in and you want to adjust your desk to sit down and take notes quickly? Yes, you are thinking right, Electric sit-stand desks would make that possible for you.

Pros

  • Motorized for easy adjustment
  • Programmable Height
  • Additional features
  • Extra storage shelves
  • Cable management
  • Convenience

Cons

  • More expensive
  • Few noisy models

4. Standing Desk Converters

Standing Desk Converter

Are you out of budget, or are you just reading this article as you want to experience the benefits of standing while at work? No worries, we have something for you too. You can use a standing desk converter to convert your existing standard desk into a standing desk. Yes, you heard it right!

A standing desk converter is a device that sits on top of your existing desk and allows you to adjust the height of your work surface. They’re a great way to get the benefits of a standing desk without spending much money.

There are two main types of standing desk converters:-

Fixed-height converters: These devices have a set height that can’t be adjusted. They’re typically the most affordable option, but they’re less versatile than adjustable-height converters.

Adjustable-height converters: With an adjustable-height converter, you can customize your work surface to the perfect height. Although they’re pricier than fixed-height converters, they’re definitely worth the investment if you plan on using your standing desk converter often.

Pros

  • More affordable option
  • Easy to set up and use
  • It can be used on any desk

Cons

  • Not so versatile
  • Only be suitable for some

5. Portable Standing Desks and Carts

Portable Standing Desks and Carts

A portable standing desk is a movable desk, as the name suggests. They are ideal if you can sit or stand while working. For example, office employees who share desks with others or students that use desks in different classrooms can take advantage of a portable standing desk.

Portable standing desks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some fit right on top of your existing desk, while others are stand-alone units. And if you have a laptop, then there are even portable standing desks that are specifically designed for use with laptops.

Pros

  • More affordable
  • Easy to move around

Cons

  • Not that much adjustable
  • Some models can be unstable

6. Exercise Standing Desks

Excersize Standing Desk

Last but not the least, we want to talk about a unique type of standing desk; the exercise or treadmill desk. These desks are designed to help you get a workout while you work along. And yes, they’re exactly what they sound like; desks with a built-in treadmill or other exercise equipment.

If you’re looking for a way to multitask and get in shape, an exercise standing desk is definitely worth considering. And although they’re more expensive than other types of full-standing desks, they can be a great investment if you’re serious about getting healthy.

Pros

  • Workout while at work
  • Aesthetics: sleek and stylish
  • Additional features
  • Extra storage shelves

Cons

  • Most expensive option

Choose Standing Desks that Suit your Height and Body type

One more thing before choosing a sit-stand desk, it’s important to consider your height and body type. The reason is that you want adjustable standing desks or fixed height standing desks which suits your height so that you can work while standing comfortably.

Best Height Adjustable Desk for Big & Tall

If you’re taller than average, you’ll want to ensure that the desk is high enough to comfortably work while standing. Usually, electric standing desks are the best option for tall people. I myself am 6’4″ and use an ApexDesk Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk, which goes up to 60″ tall.

Best height adjustable desk for a petite person

On the other hand, if you’re shorter than average, choose from lower-than-average standing desk options or an adjustable-height desk so that you can adjust it to your perfect height. That way, you can avoid reaching up too high when working at the desk while maintaining the ergonomics of the workstation.

In order to check out detailed guide on Standard Height Of A Desktop and calculation mechanism, then click here.

Overall Best Standing Desk Type

After discussing all of the different types of standing desks, it’s time to choose the best one for you. And the answer largely depends on your needs and budget. However, there is a “best” option for a reason.

So, an Electric Standing Desk is a way to go if you want the most versatile desk. With an electric desk, you can easily switch between sitting and standing as needed. And if you’re taller than average, an electric standing desk is a great option since you can adjust it to your perfect height. But that doesn’t mean it’s only good for tall people. Even if you’re petite, an electric standing desk can be a great option since you can adjust it to your perfect height.

Overall Most Recommended Electric Standing Desk

I enthusiastically recommend ApexDesk Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk, which I’ve been using for over two years, and I absolutely love it. I recommend it because of its adjustability, versatility, and overall convenience.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Buy the Best Power Standing Desk: (Recommendations From Standing Desk Experts)

When it comes to choosing an electric height adjustable desk, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

  • Step 1: Your first step should be to consider the size of the desk you need. You’ll want to ensure it’s large enough to accommodate your monitor, keyboard, and mouse. If you have multiple monitors, opt for a larger size.
  • Step 2: Think about the height adjustment range. Some desks only allow you to adjust the height a few inches, while others allow you to adjust it several inches. If you’re taller or shorter than average, choose a desk with a greater height adjustment range.
  • Step 3: Know the type of electric adjustable standing desks you want. There are generally two types: single motor and dual motor. If you want a more budget-friendly option, go with a single-motor desk. These desks are typically less expensive and still offer plenty of features. If you want a more premium option, go with a dual-motor desk. These desks are more expensive but offer a higher load capacity and faster adjustment speeds.

Top 05 Best Desk Accessories for your Electric Standing Desk

Having an efficient and quality standing desk setup is incomplete without the right desk accessories. Here are our top recommendations for standing desk accessories that will help boost your productivity.

1. Monitor arm

Monitor Arm

A good monitor arm will help you position your monitors at the perfect height and distance from your eyes. This is important because you want to avoid neck and eye strain. Optimizing your monitor setup will help you be more productive and comfortable while working at your standing desk. I use the VIVO Dual Monitor Desk Mount, which allows me to position my monitors exactly where I want them.

2. CPU holder

CPU Holder

You may be surprised to learn that a CPU holder is an important accessory for your standing desk. But it’s true! When you’re working at a standing desk, you don’t want your CPU to be on the floor, where it can get dusty and dirty. And you don’t want it on your desk, taking up valuable space. So a CPU holder is a perfect solution. It keeps your CPU off the floor and out of the way while still being easily accessible. I personally recommend CPU Holder Under Desk Mount by HUANUO.

3. Cable management under the desk

Standing Desk with Cable Management

Cables and cords can be a pain, especially when using a standing desk. That’s why it’s important to have good cable management. That way, you can keep your cords and cables organized and out of the way. I highly recommend this Under Desk Cable Management Tray, which also helps me keep my cords and cables organized and tidy. Optimizing your cable management will help you have a more efficient and productive standing desk setup.

4. Standing Desk Mat

Standing Desk Mat

A standing desk mat is a must-have if you’re going to be using a standing desk. It provides cushioning and support for your feet, legs, and back. And it helps to reduce fatigue and discomfort. The reason is, when you’re standing on a hard surface for long periods of time, it can be tough on your feet, legs, and back. But a standing desk mat helps to reduce that discomfort.

I personnally use ComfiLife Anti Fatigue Floor Mat which is quite comfortable and durable.

5. Ergonomic Chair

Ergonomic Chair for Standing Desk

First, an ergonomic chair. Standing all day can be tough on your back, so you’ll want a chair that provides support. I personnally recommend SONGMICS Standing Desk Chair which is comfortable and has great lumbar support. So you can find the perfect position for your body after using your standing desk.

These were the most essential ones, but if you want to check out our best shortlisted 25 cool desk accessories, then click here.

Video Recommendations: Types of Standing Desks

Courtesy: btod.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q. Are all standing desks the same?

A. No, there are different types of standing desks to choose from. And the best type of standing desk for you depends on your needs and budget. Sit-stand desk types range from simple, manually adjustable desks to more expensive, electric standing desks. Treadmill desks are also an option, though they are more expensive than traditional standing desks.

Q. Do standing desks really make a difference?

A. Yes, standing desks have been shown to have many benefits, including improved posture, reduced fatigue, and increased productivity. Also, burning more calories is another great benefit of using a standing desk since it helps offset the negative consequences of extended sitting periods. More specifically, standing desks can provide relief for lower back pain and discomfort in the shoulders and neck area. So, its clear that standing desks offer a multitude of benefits.

Q. What Is A Standing Desk?

A. A standing desk is a type of desk that allows you to stand while working. It usually has an adjustable height so that you can set it to the perfect height for your needs. Many standing desks also have shelves and drawers to help you create an ergonomic workspace. This kind of desk has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more research has shown the health benefits of standing up while working instead of sitting down all day long.

Final Verdict: Is a Standing Desk worth it?

A standing desk is a great investment if you’re looking to improve your health and productivity. It’s important to find the right type of stand-up desk for your needs and budget. But overall, a sit stand desk is a worthwhile investment that can have many benefits.

As we discussed all the types, features, prices, and benefits of the best standing desks, it’s time for your decision.

  • Whether you are in need of a fixed, height-adjustable, electric, or portable standing desk, we hope our guide has helped you make an informed decision on the best type and model of standing desk for your needs.
  • No matter which desk you choose, we have recommended every best model of that particular category so you can’t go wrong with any of them.
  • Additionally, we suggested some of the best standing desk accessories that can help you improve your productivity, comfort, and health while working at a standing desk.

So, what are you waiting for? Get up and get moving with a standing desk! Your body will thank you. We wish you a happy and healthy work-from-home experience!

For more latest articles, visit Desksguide.com

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About Mike Irving

Enthusiast Computer Geek, with vast experience in Office Ergonomics. Mike Irving is known as Master of Office and Computer Desk setups including gaming workstations.

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