Related Articles
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
The medical community is largely in agreement that sitting all day is very bad for our health. Increased blood pressure, weight gain, high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels are just a few of the health risks thatresearch has linked to sitting. But, for most of us, sitting is hard to avoid. Here’swhere the best adjustable standing desks come in.
What Are the Benefits of an Adjustable Standing Desk?
Reduce shoulder and back pain: According to a Harvard study, using a standing desk can help reduce shoulder and back pain associated with sitting for prolonged periods of time.
Reduce the risk of obesity:While a standing desk can help you burn more calories, the number isn’t more significant than, say, taking a 30-minute walk at lunchtime. That being said, it’s still a better alternative than sitting for eight straight hours.
Lower blood sugar levels:Ever sit down at your desk, scarf down your entire take-out lunch, and keep working? If you’re prone to type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, then a standing desk can help you lower your blood sugar levels, which tend to spike after eating.
Increase productivity:As British Medical Journal researchers discovered, people who used standing desks also improved in their job performance compared to the previous year. They’re generally more alert, focused and comfortable too.
How Do You Choose a Good Adjustable Standing Desk?
You’re likely to use your standing desk for hours a day, so it’s worthwhile to shop around a bit. Here are a few key specs to consider while browsing the best adjustable standing desks to buy online.
Type of desk: Standing desks come in two varieties: converters (a.k.a risers) and replacement desks. Replacement desks require that you get rid of your current desk (assuming you don’t have room for both), but they’re typically more streamlined than converter desks. Converter desks, on the other hand, can be set up on top of your current desk. If you’re unsure whether a standing desk is for you, start off with a converter; you can always return it and still have your original workspace intact.
Size: Be sure to check the dimensions of any standing desk. First, measure the desk’s intended space in your office. Then, find out the height(s), width and depth of each desk you’re considering. Larger workspaces are usually better, but you don’t want an overly-bulky desk taking up your whole office. Also, if you’re tall or short, be sure that the desk can accommodate your height.
Adjustability: Check out how easy it is to adjust a standing desk, as well as how many different height options are available.
Keyboard tray: Some of the best adjustable standing desk converters feature a keyboard tray, which can be nice (especially with converter standing desks). These are great because, when standing, you want your monitor to be considerably higher than your hands and keyboard, although they do create some clutter.
What Are the Best Adjustable Standing Desks?
Whether you’re upgrading your home office or corporate setup, read on for our reviews of the best adjustable standing desk converters.
(Note: Before you jump into the standing desk life, experts recommend that you ease into your new workspace; start with 30 to 60 minutes per day and then gradually increase your standing time).
