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Standing desks are a great way to improve your activity levels during your office desk working routine. There are three types of height adjustable standing desks, electric, hand-crank, and pneumatic. In this guide, we are focusing on pneumatic standing desks in particular.
We compiled a list of the six best pneumatic standing desks for this year based on our research and testing on style, structure, affordability, warranty, and customer reviews.
Best Pneumatic Standing Desks
- Songmics 47.3” Gas Spring Standing Desk – Top Pick
- Tangkula Compact Pneumatic Standing Desk – Best Value
- ApexDesk Airlift Series Pneumatic Standing Desk – Premium Pick
- Seville Classics Airlift XL Pneumatic Standing Desk – Budget Buy
- Realspace Magellan 60” Pneumatic Standing Desk – Most Spacious
- VIVO Mobile 32 inch Pneumatic Standing Desk – Best for Laptops
Above, you can see our six best pneumatic standing desk picks; we made sure to include the industry-leading desks as well as options for different budgets and needs. Keep scrolling to see a detailed description of each desk as well as its pros and cons.
Compare Our Top Picks
Desk Name | Max Static Weight | Desktop Size | Warranty | Min/Max Height |
110 lbs | 47.3 inch | n/a | 28. 3” to 44. 1” | |
66 lbs | 36 inch | n/a | 27.5” to 42” | |
180 lbs | 55 inch | 1-Year | 29” to 48” | |
35 lbs | 28.1 inch | 1-Year | 27.1″ to 41.9″ | |
200 lbs | 60 inch | 5-year | 30″ to 43″ | |
22 lbs | 32 inch | 3-Year | 30.3” to 46.9” |
Why Trust Us
Overheard on Conference Calls spends hundreds of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products so we can recommend the best products for you. Accurate information and editorial integrity are our commitments to our readers. Read more about our research and testing here.
What are Pneumatic Standing Desks?
The main difference between pneumatic and electric standing desks is that they don’t use electrical power. Instead, pneumatic standing desks use compressed air for the lifting and lowering process. Typically, pneumatic standing desks have one or two compressed gas cylinders, and users can lift the desktop by pulling on a lever.
Furthermore, the time to fully adjust the desktop’s height is much shorter than with an electric standing desk. However, pneumatic standing desks have a lower lifting capacity than their electric cousins because they don’t have powerful lifting motors.
Keep reading to; see our top recommendations, learn about the benefits of pneumatic standing desks, what to look for in them and how they compare to electric and hand-crank standing desks.
First on our list of the best pneumatic standing desks is our top choice, the Songmics 47.3” Gas Spring Standing Desk.
Firstly, this model offers a spacious 47.3” by 23.6” work surface, finished in a stylish wood design. It can easily accommodate a single, double or triple monitor setup. The tabletop is made from high-quality MDF that is water and scratch-resistant.
In terms of structure, this model offers a robust steel frame with a maximum static weight capacity of 110 lbs, so it’s pretty sturdy. The frame is balanced on four adjustable feet.
As mentioned before, users can adjust the height of pneumatic standing desks by pushing a lever that is powered by two compressed gas cylinders. This particular desk can be lifted to anywhere between 28.3 and 44.1 inches high.
Apart from the trendy style and large desktop size, this Songmics model is a quite affordable option, priced below $250. However, there are some negatives; the standing desk lacks additional features such as a cable management tray or a keyboard tray.
All things considered, this Songmics Standing Desk is an excellent pneumatic option offering affordability, space, and style.
KEY FEATURES:
- Spacious Work Surface
- Stylish Wood Design
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Four Adjustable Feet
- Sturdy Structure
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 47. 3″ x 23. 6″ x 44.1”
- Worktop Dimensions: 47. 3″ x 23. 6″
- Static Weight Capacity: 110 lbs
- Lifting Weight Capacity: 40 to 50 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 28. 3” to 44. 1”
- Desk Weight: 65 lbs
- Material: Metal Frame, MDF Tabletop
- Manufacturer: Songmics
PROS:
- Affordable Price
- Trendy Design
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Durable Worktop
CONS:
- Lacks Additional Features
Next up on our list of the best pneumatic standing desks is our best value choice, the Tangkula Compact Pneumatic Standing. It has a lot to offer at a very affordable price tag.
To begin with, the tabletop of this model is compact; it’s 36 inches long and 21 inches wide. This means it’s only suitable for lighter and smaller office desk setups, preferably with one monitor. It’s available in four trendy styles: black, white, brown, and natural. The tabletop is built from medium-density fiber and has an ergonomic curved shape.
Again, like nearly all height adjustable standing desks, this model has an industrial-grade steel frame. It has a maximum static weight capacity of 66 lbs which isn’t a lot, to be honest, but it can handle single monitor setups. Users can change the desk’s height to anywhere between 27.5 and 42 inches to match their standing and sitting positions.
What really makes this desk stand out is the pocket-friendly price tag. Furthermore, this Tangkula desk is effortless to move even by one person with the lightweight design and four wheels.
Of course, the desk does have some drawbacks at such an affordable price, such as the lack of additional features, low weight capacity, and a small desktop.
In conclusion, this Tangkula model is a stylish and budget-friendly option that has everything you need to work in both the sitting and standing position.
KEY FEATURES:
- Compact Desktop
- Available in Four Colors
- Ergonomic Curved Shape
- Dual Gas Rods
- Four Wheels/Casters
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 36″ x 21.5” x 42″
- Worktop Dimensions: 36″ x 21.5”
- Static Weight Capacity: 66 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 27.5” to 42”
- Desk Weight: 34 lbs
- Material: Steel, MDF
- Manufacturer: Tangkula
PROS:
- Very Affordable
- Stylish Design
- Easy to Move
- Multiple Color Options
CONS:
- Low Weight Capacity
Third on our list is our premium choice, the ApexDesk Airlift Series Pneumatic Standing Desk; it offers reliable durability combined with a large modern work surface.
Made from one piece of high-quality MDF, the desktop measures 55 inches long and 27 inches wide and has two cable management grommets. ApexDesk gives buyers a choice of two styles, grey and all-black.
With the help of compressed air, users can regulate the desk’s height to anywhere between 29 and 48 inches high using the hand lever. The process is swift and quiet.
ApexDesk is a reputable brand known for its structure quality, and this desk is no exception. It has a robust steel structure supported by a steel back mesh enabling a static weight capacity of 180 lbs.
The brand backs this model with a decent 1-year manufacturer’s warranty on every purchase. Two rear casters to enable easy movement of the desk even by a single person.
All in all, this ApexDesk model is an ideal choice for people looking for a large pneumatic standing desk with a durable structure made by a widely known brand.
Read more: Best standing desk chairs
KEY FEATURES:
- Very Spacious Desktop
- Modern Design
- 1 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Two Rear Wheels
- One-Piece MDF Tabletop
- Good Weight Capacity
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 55” x 27” x 48”
- Worktop Dimensions: 55” x 27”
- Static Weight Capacity: 180 lbs
- Lifting Weight Capacity: 20 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 29” to 48”
- Desk Weight: 90 lbs
- Material: Steel, MDF
- Manufacturer: ApexDesk
PROS:
- Reputable Brand
- Decent Warranty
- Easy to Move
- Large Tabletop
- Competitive Price
- Two Color Options
CONS:
- No Keyboard Tray
- Premium Price
Fourth on our list of the best pneumatic standing desks for this year is our budget choice, the Seville Classics Airlift XL Pneumatic Standing Desk. What makes this one special is obviously the very low price. If you don’t want to spend a lot, it’s an excellent choice.
Firstly, this model’s compact desktop is only 28 inches long and 19 inches wide, meaning it is only suitable for laptops as there is not enough space for larger setups. The desk is available in eight trendy finishes: white, dark brown, espresso, pure white, maple, black, and jet black.
A significant downside of this standing desk is the weight capacity of only 35 lbs, so you really have to be careful of what you put on the desk. However, it’s built from steel and aluminum, so it’s still a reasonably robust standing desk.
Users can regulate the desk’s height between 27.1 and 41.9 inches high, which means it’s not suitable for very tall people. The whole lifting process is powered by compressed air, so it’s fast and quiet.
Despite the low price, you still get a one-year manufacturer’s warranty when buying this Seville Classics model.
All things considered, this is a cheap pneumatic standing desk that has all the space and functionality you need for single laptop setups.
Read more: Best standing desk mats
KEY FEATURES:
- Small One-Piece Desktop
- Budget Price
- One-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Multiple Styles
- Four Wheels
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 28.1″ x 19.6″ x 41.9”
- Worktop Dimensions: 28.1″ x 19.6″
- Static and Lifting Weight Capacity: 35 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 27.1″ to 41.9″
- Desk Weight: 33.8 lbs
- Material: Steel, Aluminium
- Manufacturer: Seville Classics
PROS:
- Available in Eight Colors
- Super Affordable
- Easy to Move
- Quick and Quiet Lifting Process
CONS:
- Low Weight Capacity
- Small Work Surface
Next up on our list is the best pneumatic standing desk if you seek an extra-large work surface, the Realspace Magellan 60” Pneumatic Standing Desk.
In terms of style, the tabletop has a simplistic modern design available in several color options made from particleboard. Realspace created this model for ultimate space, with the desktop measuring 60 inches long and 30 inches wide. When comparing desktop size, it’s probably the best pneumatic standing desk on the market.
The tabletop is supported by two heavy-duty steel T-shape legs enabling a maximum static capacity of 200 lbs. What makes this desk stand out is the long warranty; Realspace offers a 5-year limited manufacturer’s warranty to every buyer.
Compressed air powers the lifting process. Users can lift the desk up and down between 30 and 43 inches high using an easy-to-use hand lever.
In general, this Realspace Pneumatic Standing Desk is built for workspace size and durability while also offering a long warranty. Definitely, a good choice if you’re after a pneumatic standing desk.
Read more: Best standing desk for dual monitors
KEY FEATURES:
- Extra-Large Work Surface
- Trendy Gray Wood Finish
- High Static Weight Capacity
- Pneumatic Lift Assistance
- Robust Steel Frame
- 5-Year Limited Manufacturers Warranty
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 60” x 30” x 43”
- Worktop Dimensions: 60” x 30”
- Static Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 30″ to 43″
- Desk Weight: 107 lbs
- Material: Steel, Particleboard
- Manufacturer: Realspace
PROS:
- Built to Last
- XXL Desktop
- Modern Design
- Easy to Move
- Long Warranty
CONS:
- Lacks Additional Features
Last but not least on our list is a pneumatic desk best suited for laptops, the Vivo 32” Pneumatic Standing Desk. It’s compact, easy to move, reliable, and affordable.
Firstly, the tabletop on this Vivo model is small but not tiny measuring 31.5 inches long and 23.6 inches wide, perfect for laptop scenarios. It’s finished in an all-black style and made from one piece of scratch-resistant particleboard. Using the easy-to-use hand lever, users can regulate the desktop’s height between 30.9 and 46.9 inches.
The structure of this particular desk is a lightweight steel frame that sits on four lockable casters making it very easy to move around. The downside to that is that with a weight capacity of 22 lbs, this Vivo desk can only handle laptops.
Vivo offers a generous 3-year manufacturer’s warranty, meaning you are covered if the desk fails or gets damaged without it being your fault.
To sum up, this compact Vivo Standing Desk is an excellent choice for laptop-only users. It’s portable, easy to use, pocket-friendly, and has a good manufacturer’s warranty.
Read more: Best standing desks with storage
KEY FEATURES:
- Compact Work Surface
- Portable & Lightweight
- 3-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Low Budget-Friendly
- Pneumatic Spring Lift
- All-Black Design
- Four Lockable Wheels
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 31.5” x 23.6” x 46.9”
- Worktop Dimensions: 31.5” x 23.6”
- Static and Lifting Weight Capacity: 22 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 30.3” to 46.9”
- Desk Weight: 22 lbs
- Material: Steel, Particleboard
- Manufacturer: Vivo
PROS:
- Affordably Priced
- Easy to Move
- Good Warranty
- Suitable for Small Spaces
CONS:
- Lacks Additional Features
How We Decided
Like hand-crank standing desks, pneumatic standing desks are an affordable alternative to their electrical cousins. To create our guide, we looked at four main factors; lifting smoothness, cost, style, and online reviews.
The smoothness of the lifting mechanism was definitely the most important factor we considered. During our tests, we examined the pneumatic lift handle of each of our recommended desks, ensuring it worked smoothly without any issues.
Another critical factor we considered was cost. While pneumatic workstations are less expensive than electric desks, many options are overpriced. Most importantly, our specialists are continuously on the lookout for desks that provide excellent value for money. We also made sure to include several low-cost alternatives for low-budget shoppers.
Apart from considering the lifting smoothness and cost, we also closely looked at style. Buying a standing desk is a long-term investment, so you’ll want something you truly like, up-to-date, and fit with your home decor. Whether you’re into modern trends or a rustic farmhouse style, we included several desks which work well with those interior styles.
Finally, our last major decisive factor was online reviews. We conducted thorough research on the internet for online reviews of each workstation we examined. This provided us with extensive information into feedback from other buyers. Our experts always make certain that every workstation we recommend has excellent internet reviews.
What You Should Look for in a Pneumatic Standing Desk
You have to consider numerous vital factors when choosing a pneumatic standing desk; make sure you don’t overlook these.
Maximum Weight Capacity
With pneumatic standing desks, the maximum weight capacity is often misleading. The static weight capacity of pneumatic standing desks is usually around 170 lbs. However, the lifting capacity is considerably lower, usually around 20 lbs. This means the compressed air-powered lifting system can only lift lightweight hardware setups such as; laptop or single monitor. You shouldn’t use pneumatic standing desks for heavy triple monitor setups. Instead, you should use a standing desk designed for triple monitors.
How long is the warranty?
The length of the manufacturer’s warranty indicates how long the brand covers refunds or replacements. By that, I mean if your standing desk fails or breaks down within the warranty period, you either get a replacement standing desk or a refund to some extent. Most reputable standing desk brands offer at least a year-long warranty; however, it’s always better to choose one with a longer coverage period.
Work Surface Size
Another essential factor to look out for is the worksurface size; it determines the overall feel of your desk and how many items you can fit on it. As mentioned before, you should only use pneumatic standing desks for light setups. Additionally, you should think about decorative items such as picture frames or led lamps. If you often use a notepad or document sheets by your computer, you should think of the space needed for that too.
What is the height adjustment range?
To be able to work in the correct posture while standing and sitting, you have to set the desk height in accordance with the user height. You should ensure that your desktop is at around your elbow height. Most commonly, pneumatic standing desks can be lifted to 48 inches high which is suitable for most people. However, if you are a tall or very tall person you may need a standing desk designed for tall people that can be lifted higher.
Does the desk have wheels?
Wheels on which standing desks often sit (also known as casters) help with the mobility of the desk. If you plan to move your desk often, you should choose a pneumatic standing desk with casters. These wheels are also lockable, so your standing desk stays in position.
What are the Benefits of Pneumatic Standing Desks
Using a pneumatic standing desk consistently has numerous benefits, most of them being health-related.
- They Prevent Back and Neck Pain – Working in proper standing and sitting positions can improve your posture and reduce back and neck pain.
- They are Affordable – With options starting at $50, pneumatic standing desks can be pocket-friendly and are cheaper than electric standing desks.
- They Can Increase Productivity – An active working routine speeds up blood sugar level restoration, which can help with energy and mental focus.
- They are Quiet – Pneumatic standing desks have a fast and incredibly quiet lifting process as they are powered by compressed air.
- They can Improve Your Mood – The increased daily energy levels can often lead to improved overall mood making you a happier person at work.
- They are Easy to Move – Most pneumatic standing desks are light and sit on wheels; a single person can move them.
- They Lower the Risk of Disease – Sitting for too long through your life can cause serious heart problems and even cancer. Using a standing desk at work lowers your time spent sitting.
Pneumatic vs Hand-Crank vs Electric Standing Desks
Pneumatic | Electric | Hand-Crank | |
Powered By | Compressed Air | Electricity | Manual |
Lifting Capacity | Up to 50 lbs | Up to 330 lbs | Up to 220 lbs |
Price | $50 – $400 | $200 – $800 | $150 – $500 |
Lifting Noise | Almost Silent | Can be Loud | Fairly Quiet |
Warranty Length | Up to 5 years | Up to 15 years | Up to 15 years |
Lifting Speed | Ultra Fast | 1.6” per second | Depends on Turning Speed |
Final Thoughts
In summary, pneumatic standing desks are a viable alternative to electric and hand-crank standing desks. They are easier to use, less noisy, and usually cheaper than electric standing desks. Additionally, they come with tremendous health benefits.
However, pneumatic standing desks have a much lower lifting capacity than electric standing desks, which should not be overlooked. Moreover, pneumatic standing desks most often have short warranties.
We hope our guide has helped you find the ideal pneumatic standing desk for you. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or suggestions.
FAQs
Is Pneumatic or Electric Better?
Personal preference decides if pneumatic standing desks or electric standing desks are better. There are pros and cons to both. Pneumatic standing desks are less likely to fail because they are not dependent on electrical components. Moreover, pneumatic desks can be lifted faster and quieter than motorized standing desks. However, electric standing desks have a higher weight capacity and more additional features than pneumatic desks.
How long do Pneumatic Standing Desks Last?
Just like well-built pneumatic office chairs, pneumatic desks can last for up to 30 years or even more in some cases. They have a longer life expectancy than electric standing desks.
Are Pneumatic Desks Good?
All things considered, pneumatic standing desks are a good option when compared with electric or hand-crank alternatives. They are reliable, not dependent on electricity, and can often last over 30 years. Compared to electric standing desks, pneumatic desks are less noisy, faster, and easier to move, but they usually have a lower lifting capacity.
How does a Pneumatic Desk Work?
Pneumatic desks are powered by compressed air, like most height-adjustable office chairs. There is a hand-lever users can push to regulate the desk height in accordance with their height. The correct height ensures users can work in the proper posture in the standing and sitting positions.
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