Standing desks allow users to switch between sitting and standing positions while at work. From improved posture to an increase in focus and productivity levels, the benefits of standing desks have been well documented, and it's no wonder more of us are looking to invest in one.
However, there is an alternative that boasts many of the same benefits with a cheaper price tag: a desk converter. But is it as effective? In this guide, we weigh up the pros and cons of standing desks vs. desk converters to help you decide which one is right for you.
Why Stand?
Before discussing the specifics of standing desks and desk converters, it's important to understand why standing at work is important. Research shows that prolonged sitting can lead to a host of health issues, including poor posture, back pain, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and even a shorter lifespan.
Conversely, standing desks and desk converters encourage movement and improve circulation, which can prevent and counteract the negative effects of sitting down for long periods. Indeed, there are a growing number of psychological and physical health benefits to look forward to when you make the switch to standing up at work.
With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the two main options for incorporating standing into your workspace.
Standing Desks
Standing desks, also known as height-adjustable desks, are designed to replace your traditional desk with an ergonomic desk where you can switch between sitting and standing positions, either with the simple push of a button or via a manual crank system.
Pros of Standing Desks
These are the qualities where standing desks shine when compared to desk converters.
1. Ergonomic
Standing desks are designed with ergonomics in mind, and tend to offer a more seamless and stable transition between sitting and standing heights, in particular if you use an electric desk where the desk can be adjusted at the push of a button.
2. Fully Adjustable
Most standing desks are fully adjustable, allowing you to adjust the height to your exact preference, ensuring proper alignment of your wrists, elbows, and monitor. This reduces strain on your neck, shoulders, and back.
Bluetooth desks can even allow you to adjust and save sensitivity and memory settings for different standing desk users, help you monitor how long you spend standing at your desk, and set reminders to change positions.
3. Spacious
Standing desks typically offer a large work surface when compared to desk converters, allowing you to accommodate a mouse, keyboard, multiple monitors and accessories.
Even if you're working in a smaller room, small standing desks can help you to create an active and healthy home office with limited space.
4. Aesthetic
Standing desks often have a sleek, modern design, with a range of frames and finishes to choose from to match your decor. Standing desks also tend to be less "clunky" than desk converters.
5. Long-Term Investment
While more expensive upfront, standing desks are a durable, long-lasting solution for improving workplace health. Many models come with warranties and are built to withstand daily use for years, in particular, if you invest in one made from high-quality materials.
Cons of Standing Desks
For all their pros, there are some drawbacks of standing desks to consider.
1. Higher Cost
Standing desks are generally more expensive than desk converters.
2. Space Requirements
Standing desks may require more space, making them less ideal for smaller offices or home setups (unless specified). You’ll need to ensure you have enough room for the desk (width and depth) and its full range of motion.
3. Installation
Some standing desks may require assembly or professional installation, which can be time-consuming and add additional costs.
Electric models may also need to be positioned near a power outlet, limiting placement options.
In addition, standing desks are heavier and less portable than desk converters. Once installed, they are not as easy to move or reconfigure.
Desk Converters
A standing desk converter is a height-adjustable, multi-leveled mini-desk that sits atop your current desk, allowing you to lift your monitor, keyboard, and mouse to a standing height, and switch between sitting and standing positions at your regular desk. As their name suggests, it converts your regular desk into a standing one.
Pros of Desk Converters
1. More Affordable
Desk converters are much more budget-friendly than standing desks. They provide a cost-effective way to experience the benefits of standing at work.
If you’re unsure whether standing at work is right for you, a desk converter is a low-risk way to try it out before investing in a desk.
2. Portable
Converters tend to be lightweight and easy to move, making them perfect for shared workspaces, remote workers, or those who frequently change locations.
3. Quick Setup
Desk converters require no installation and can be used immediately after purchase. This means you can easily switch between sitting and standing without replacing your entire desk.
4. Space-Saving
Desk converters are perfect for smaller desks or offices where space is limited. They don’t take up additional floor space and can be stored away when not in use.
Cons of Desk Converters
While desk converters are a more affordable and portable option for those who want to test the waters of standing at work, there are drawbacks to consider.
1. Limited Workspace
Desk converters often have a smaller surface area, which may not accommodate multiple monitors or large setups. This can be a challenge for users with complex workstations or heavy loads.
On that note, our triple-motored standing desks can lift up to 160kg of weight, whereas desk converters, on average, can lift up to just 20kg.
2. Less Stable
Some models may wobble or feel less sturdy compared to standing desks, especially when typing or using a mouse at standing height.
Standing desks are built with high-quality materials, such as steel frames and durable desktops, to remain stable and wobble-free. This is especially important when supporting heavy equipment.
3. Manual Adjustment
Many desk converters require manual height adjustment, which can be less convenient than using a standing desk. Standing desks typically offer a wide range of height adjustments, often in small increments, which allows you to fine-tune the desk to your exact height.
4. Aesthetics
Converters may not blend as seamlessly with your existing desk or decor as a standing desk would. And there are fewer design options. This means they can sometimes look out of place or cluttered - in particular as adding to your existing desk can reduce the available workspace, making it harder to organise your materials and equipment.
How to Choose
So, how do you choose between the two? Well, the choice between a converter and a standing desk boils down to the space that you have available, your working habits, and whether you have a budget.
1. Available Space
How much space do you have available? If you have a built-in desk or limited room, a desk converter could be the better choice. However, if you want to replace your desk and have enough room, a standing desk would work well. There are even standing desks for small spaces if you are tight on space but want a full-sized desk.
On top of the space in the room itself, consider your work setup. If you use multiple monitors or need a lot of desk space, a standing desk is the better option. For simpler setups, such as a standard laptop, keyboard and mouse, a desk converter would suffice.
2. Frequency of Use
If you plan to stand frequently and want a seamless transition between sitting and standing, a standing desk is more convenient. If you only plan to stand occasionally, a desk converter might be sufficient.
3. Budget
If cost is a concern, a desk converter is the more affordable option. However, it is more of a temporary solution. If you’re ready to invest in a long-term solution, a standing desk will be worth the higher upfront cost.
The Verdict & Your Next Steps
If you’re new to standing at work, a desk converter is a great way to test the waters without a significant investment. However, it’s worth considering the trade-offs. While these solutions are practical and budget-friendly, they can lack the convenience, precision, and stability of a dedicated standing desk.
For those ready to commit to a healthier, more dynamic desk, a standing desk is more than a worthwhile upgrade, offering more enhanced ergonomics and space for you to work.
Looking for a standing desk for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of standing desks, available for next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm. Our desks come with a 7 year warranty, 30 day risk free return, as well as access to a UK-based customer service team to answer any questions that you might have.
Need additional help choosing a standing desk? Get in contact with our expert team with any queries.
Otherwise, our blog provides more useful tips on using a standing desk for a more balanced lifestyle. Feel free to contact us with any questions, with the handy live chat feature on our site, or via email at info@ergodesks.co.uk.
