Working from home, or a hybrid of that and the office looks set to be the future of working. So if you're working from home and want to give your setup an upgrade, investing in a standing desk converter is a great way to both improve your health and maximise the space you have available.
We've found the best standing desk converters that'll be the perfect addition to your home office, plus keep reading for the benefits of standing desks.
What are the benefits of standing up at work?
Sitting at a desk for several hours a day is (shock horror), not great for your health. It can lead to back issues, obesity and poor mental health. A standing desk, on the other hand, has verified health benefits and are an easy switch to make to your workspace.
Related: Home office decor ideas that will make working from home a breeze
According to Healthline, standing for periods of time reduces the risk of obesity and the associated health risks that come with this (like heart disease). Obviously, exercise is the best way to burn calories, but by standing rather than sitting, you're burning more calories.
A standing desk can also offer mood-boosting benefits, helping reduce stress and fatigue levels to keep you feeling motivated throughout the day.
Doctors recommend a mixture of sitting and standing, making a standing desk converter a great option to help keep your body and mind healthy.
Best standing desk converters
VariDesk Pro Plus 36
Best heavy-duty option This is perhaps the ultimate standing desk converter on the market, offering two large shelves and exceptional build quality. There are 11 height settings to choose from and it can hold up to 15.5kg. Despite the large size and weight (29.4kg), this converter is easy to use thanks to a spring-loaded lift feature. **Specs:Size: 91.4 x 68 x 10.6 cmWeight: 29.4kgMaxium load: 16kgPros:Great adjustability Top-quality constructionPlenty of room for monitors and computer accessoriesCons:**You'll need a lot of space and money for this one
FLEXISPOT Adjustable Standing Desk Converter
Best for making use of your space Designed to make the most of your available space, this standing desk converter offers a double shelf set-up and support for two monitors, without being too cumbersome in size. With unlimited height adjustment and a maximum load of 15kg, it's an ideal choice for anyone working from home. **Specs:Size: 103 x 51 x 20 cmWeight: 27.23kgMaximum load: 15kgPros:**Great build quality Maximise your working spaceEasy to put together **Cons:**Heavy
Ukmaster Wooden Adjustable Stand
The best stylish optionIf you want a standing desk converter but are worried that it won't fit your office decor, a bamboo option might be your answer. Offering six levels of adjustability for the two shelves supplied, it'll be easy to find an ergonomic position for you to work while standing. Each shelf can support up to 5kg, making it ideal for any modern computer. As a bonus, you'll get a free bamboo headphone stand, too.**Specs:Size: 68 x 47.5 x 8 cmWeight: 3.2kgMaximum load: 10kgPros:Looks greatQuality constructionCons:**Not the same degree of adjustability as other options
Lavolta Laptop Table Desk
Best portable option If for whatever reason, you need to move around a lot when working but still want the health benefits of a standing desk, this small, adjustable converter is perfect. Weighing just 1.42kg and being not much bigger than a laptop, this standing desk converter is designed to be mobile. The best part about this product is that it works as a lap desk to thanks to the configurable legs, meaning it can be used on soft surfaces, too. **Specs:Size: 50 x 28 x 6 cmWeight: 1.42kgMaximum load: 6kgPros:Easy to carry aroundVersatile on different surfacesCons:**6kg load limit Not really suited to desktop computers or laptop accessories (separate keyboards and mice)
NULAXY Laptop Stand
Best simple standing desk converter Another portable offering, this laptop stand extends and tilts to whatever specification you want. Designed for use with laptops up to 17-inches in diameter, it raises to a maximum height of 13.8 inches. **Specs:Size: 32.79 x 30.51 x 7.11 cmWeight: 1.92kgMaximum load: 10kgPros:Sleek and small when not in useExcellent adjustabilityCons:**It only works on flat, solid surfaces (no good as a lap desk)
Amazon Basics Adjustable and Portable Laptop Table
Best budget standing desk converter A multipurpose item from Amazon, this laptop table is designed to work as a tray, crouch desk and standing desk converter. With an adjustable height and tilting top, it is a basic but competent option. **Specs:Size: 60 x 33 x 1 c,Weight: 2kgMaximum load: N/APros:**Good value for moneyA multipurpose item **Cons:**Not the most adjustableOnly suitable for laptops up to 17-inches in diameter
Tamara Height Adjustable Standing Desk
Best ergonomic optionA great ergonomic sit-stand desk with a top surface that fits two monitors with a second level keyboard tray, and even room for storage. The strong sturdy steel design, with smooth and stable adjustability system makes this a great choice for converting any workspace. **Specs:Size: 43.79 x 91.44 x 71.88 cmWeight: 20kgPros:Large work surface area with second shelfIncorporated cable management Stable adjustability systemCons:**Heavy Self-assembly required
FAQs:
Which standing desk converter should I choose?
This depends almost entirely on what computer setup you use. If you have a multi-monitor setup, then you'll be needing a bigger offering that'll offer the required space. Likewise, a laptop will work quite happily on a smaller converter.
Also, pay close attention to a standing desk converter's maximum load limit; you don't want it to collapse with your computer on it. You should also consider your desk/table load limit, as some of the bigger options weight close to 30kg and you don't want to do any damage.
What features should I look for?
Ergonomics should be your number one concern here. Adjustability is key, there's no point buying one that won't be easy to use. Look for models that have several different heights available or can be configured to your preference.
Also, make sure that your standing desk converter is of good quality, you'll probably have equipment worth several hundreds of pounds and the last thing you'll want to do is cause any damage - your boss won't be pleased.
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Ryan Gilmore is a contributor to What's The Best. He also writes for CAR and Parkers.
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