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Standing desks are an excellent way to improve your overall health and eliminate the negative health impacts associated with sitting for too long at a desk. However, many people have only a small area dedicated to their desk; that’s where small standing desks come into place. Our guide lists the six best small standing desks for this year, including our top, premium, best value, and budget choices.
There are plenty of compact standing desks on the market; we made our selections based on our in-depth research focusing on desktop size, durability, warranty length, price, and other customer reviews. All of our best compact standing desk picks are under 48 inches long to ensure they can fit in small spaces. We made sure to include options to meet everyone’s budget, including premium and budget standing desks. The good news is, compact standing desks are much cheaper than large standing desks.
Keep reading to discover our recommended selections, the most important factors to consider, the benefits of standing desks, and frequently asked questions about small standing desks.
The Best Small Standing Desks
- Vivo 43” Electric Standing Desk – Top Pick
- Linsy Home 47” Electric Standing Desk – Best Value
- Vari 48” Dual Motor Electric Standing Desk – Premium Pick
- Spadi 47” Hand Crank Standing Desk – Budget Buy
- FlexiSpot EW8 Electric Standing Desk – Most Stylish
- Fezibo 40” Electric Standing Desk – Smallest Option
Above, you can see the top six compact standing desk choices for this year. Keep scrolling for detailed descriptions of each desk as well as the pros and cons that come with it.
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Compare our Top Picks
Desk Name | Weight Capacity | Desktop Size | Warranty |
154 lbs | 43 inch | 3-year | |
176 lbs | 47 inch | 1-year | |
220 lbs | 48 inch | 5-year | |
250 lbs | 47 inch | 1-year | |
110 lbs | 47.3 inch | 5-year | |
155 lbs | 40 inch | 5-Year |
First on our list of the best small standing desks is our top choice, the Vivo 43” Electric Standing Desk. It’s a compact standing desk with a stunning wood design and sturdy structure.
The desktop, built from scratch-resistant particleboard, measures 43 inches wide and 23.6 inches wide. It’s available in a wide variety of finishes, twelve in total. Unlike many other standing desks, this Vivo model has a one-piece desktop which helps with weight capacity and assembly time.
A powerful single motor powers the lifting process. Using the button controller, users can adjust the desktop height to between 29 and 48.7 inches. The 48.7-inch max height makes the desk suitable for tall people. Users can save their favorite height to one of three memory height presets.
This Vari model has an industrial-grade steel frame with a maximum weight capacity of 155 lbs. That’s enough to handle most office hardware setups. A generous 3-year manufacturer’s warranty backs the robust structure.
Additional features include a cable management tray and a handy reminder alarm that lets users know when it’s time to switch working positions. The desk does have a few downsides; it only has one lifting motor and doesn’t have a keyboard tray.
Overall, it’s one of the best compact standing desks on the market, available in 12 visually appealing finishes at an affordable price.
KEY FEATURES:
- Pleasing Wood Design
- One-Piece Compact Desktop
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Single Lifting Motor
- 3-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Timed Reminder Alarm
- Cable Management Tray
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 43” x 23.6” x 48.7”
- Worktop Dimensions: 43” x 23.6”
- Weight Capacity: 154 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 29” to 48.7”
- Desk Weight: 49.6 lbs
- Material: Steel, Particleboard
- Height Presets: 3
- Child Lock: No
- Manufacturer: Vivo
PROS:
- Available in 12 Colors
- One-Piece Tabletop
- Affordable Price
- Long Warranty
- Decent Structure
CONS:
- Lacks Keyboard Tray
- No Child Lock Button
Next on our list of the best compact standing desks is our best value pick, the Linsy Home 47” Electric Standing Desk. It’s an ideal standing desk for small spaces offering a slick wood design at an affordable price.
Firstly, the desktop is 47 inches long and 23 wide, so it’s a compact standing desk. It’s made from two pieces of laminated wood and available in two stylish finishes grey and walnut. Linsy Home offers a large free mousepad for the desk with every purchase, a nice little bonus.
Price isn’t the only thing that makes this desk stand out. It has a shiny blue-light controller that you can use to adjust the desktop’s height to anywhere between 27 and 45 inches high. A quiet single motor powers the lifting process; the only downside is the desk doesn’t have a memory preset height option.
With a maximum weight capacity of 176 lbs, this Linsy model can handle most hardware, including dual and triple monitor setups. The desks frame is made from heavy-duty steel, pretty much the standard material for standing desks. Linsy offers a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty with every purchase.
Even though the desk is cheap, it comes with many additional features, including desk hooks, a cable management tray, and a free mouse and keyboard pad. However, there are a few downsides. Firstly the warranty isn’t great, and secondly, the desk doesn’t have a keyboard tray.
All in all, this Linsy model is a super-affordable small standing desk that is solidly built and has everything you need for an ergonomic work routine.
KEY FEATURES:
- Two-Piece Laminated Wood Desktop
- Affordable Price Tag
- High Weight Capacity
- 1-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Single Lifting Motor
- Shiny Blue Controller
- Desk Hooks
- Cable Management Tray
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 47” x 23” x 45”
- Worktop Dimensions: 47” x 23”
- Weight Capacity: 176 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 27” to 45”
- Desk Weight: 68 lbs
- Material: Steel, Laminated Wood
- Height Presets: 0
- Child Lock:
- Manufacturer: Linsy Home
PROS:
- Compact Desk Size
- Available in Two Colors
- Sturdy Construction
- Affordably Priced
- Blue Light Controller
- Free Mousepad
CONS:
- Only Has a Single Lifting Motor
- Two-Piece Desktop
Next on our list is a desk dedicated to buyers looking for ultimate durability; our premium choice is the Vari 48” Dual Motor Electric Standing Desk. Vari standing desks are known for their heavy-duty build; the same goes for this model.
This model’s desktop measures 48 inches long and 30 inches wide and is made from scratch-resistant laminated wood. It’s finished in a reclaimed wood design. However, it’s also available in four other styles.
What makes this desk stand out the most is its structure quality and warranty. Made from robust steel, it has a heavy-duty weight capacity of 220 lbs. Vari offers a generous 5-year manufacturer’s warranty on all their standing desks.
Another impressive factor of this Vari model is the height adjustment range. Users can adjust the desktop up to 50.5 inches high thanks to dual electric motors. That makes it suitable for even very tall people.
The whole desk can be assembled in as little as five minutes. Furthermore, the desk is green-gold certified, which means it releases very little harmful gases and is considered safe for residential use.
Apart from the premium price tag, this standing desk doesn’t have any other significant downsides.
In summary, if you are looking for a well-built and long-lasting compact standing desk for small spaces, look no further.
KEY FEATURES:
- Reclaimed Wood Design
- 5-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Dual Lifting Motors
- Robust Structure
- Greenguard Gold Certified
- 5 Minute Assembly
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 48” x 30” x 50.5”
- Worktop Dimensions: 48” x 30”
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 25″ to 50.5″
- Desk Weight: 31.4 lbs
- Height Presets: 4
- Material: Steel, Laminated Wood
- Child Lock: No
- Manufacturer: Vari
PROS:
- Durable Worktop Finish
- Smooth and Quiet Lifting Motors
- High Weight Capacity
- Low VOC Release
- Long Warranty
- Built to Last
CONS:
- Premium Price Tag
Next up is the Sdadi Hand Crank Standing. This one is for budget buyers, price under $200; however, it is a non-powered option that uses a crank for height adjustment. If you are looking for manual standing desks in particular, read our best hand crank standing desks guide.
The desktop of this Sdadi model measures 47 inches long by 23.6 inches wide and is available in four styles; antique, black, light maple, and white. It’s made from powder-coated particleboard that is resistant to scratches and moisture.
Using the manual hand crank, users can lift the tabletop to heights between 28.7 and 46.3 inches. The hand crank can be installed on both sides of the desk depending on whether you are right or left-handed.
What makes this desk unique is its robust structure. The alloy steel frame enables a remarkable maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs. Furthermore, Sdadi includes a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty with this model.
Overall, the Sdadi Hand Crank Standing Desk is an excellent choice if you need a small standing desk without spending a fortune.
KEY FEATURES:
- Bargain Price
- Stunning Dark Hardwood Design
- Compact Size Worktop
- Very High Weight Capacity
- Leveling Leg Pads
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 47″ x 23.6″ x 46.3”
- Worktop Dimensions: 47″ x 23.6″
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 28.7″ to 46.3”
- Desk Weight: 54.9 lbs
- Height Presets: 0
- Material: Alloy Steel, Particle Board
- Child Lock: No
- Manufacturer: Spadi
PROS:
- Crank Can Be Installed in Three Places
- Incredible Weight Capacity
- Very Affordable Price
- Appealing Design
CONS:
- Short Warranty
- No Additional Features
Of course, we had to include an option for the style hunters. Our most stylish pick, the FlexiSpot EW8 model, offers a beautiful light design combined with many additional features.
The desktop of this standing desk measures 47.3 by 23.7 inches, and it’s made from scratch and moisture resistant particleboard. It’s available in four stylish finishes; black, white, bamboo, and red oak. What makes it even better is an integrated storage drawer for documents and other office equipment.
Users can regulate the desk’s height between 28.3 and 47.6 inches high. This can be done by the touch of a button and saved to one of four memory height presets. Additionally, this model offers a handy feature with the integrated charging system, including two USB and one type-c device charging port.
The only downsides are that the lifting process is powered by only a single motor and a lower maximum weight capacity of 110 lbs. However, FlexiSpot offers a generous 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, hinting that they trust their product’s structure.
All in all, the FlexiSpot EW8 is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a supremely stylish compact standing desk.
KEY FEATURES:
- Stylish White and Bamboo Design
- 5-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Integrated USB Ports
- Compact Size Worktop
- Spacious Storage Drawer
- Electric Height Adjustment
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 23.7” x 47.3” x 47.6”
- Worktop Dimensions: 23.7” x 47.3”
- Weight Capacity: 110 lbs
- Height Adjustment: from 28.3″ to 47.6”
- Desk Weight: 90.8 lbs
- Child Lock: Yes
- Height Presets: 4
- Material: Particle Board, Steel
- Manufacturer: FlexiSpot
PROS:
- Child Lock Button
- Phone Charging Ports
- Trendy Looks
- Storage Space
- Long Warranty
CONS:
- Low Maximum Weight Capacity
Another desk worth mentioning when it comes to the best small standing desks is the Fezibo 40 inch Electric Standing Desk. Fezibo is known for its style and affordability, and this model is no exception.
The standing desk has a compact 40 by 24-inch work surface made from scratch and water-resistant particleboard. It’s available in five trendy styles; espresso, rustic brown, white, black, and natural.
A powerful single electric motor enables users to change the desktop height to between
27.1 and 46 inches. The users standing and sitting heights can be saved to four memory height presets.
The frame of this Fezibo model is made from sturdy iron, which allows for a decent maximum weight capacity of 155 lbs. Fezibo offers a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty on the frame of the desk and a 2-year warranty on the electric motor.
Fezibo did add some handy additional features to this desk, including a couple of desk hooks for hanging equipment and a cable management tray.
In summary, this Fezibo product is another solid option for a small standing desk; its compact, well-built, affordable and has style.
KEY FEATURES:
- Appealing Hardwood Design
- Single Lifting Motor
- Multiple Color Options
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Strong Iron Frame
- 5-Year Manufacturers Warranty
- Desk Hooks
- Cable Management Tray
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Desk Dimensions: 40” x 24” x 46.06”
- Worktop Dimensions: 40” x 24”
- Weight Capacity: 155 lbs
- Height Adjustment: 27.16″ to 46.06″
- Desk Weight: 60.5 lbs
- Material: Iron Steel, Particleboard
- Height Presets: 3
- Child Lock: No
- Manufacturer: Fezibo
PROS:
- Compact Desktop
- Slick Design
- Affordable Price Tag
- Robust Frame
CONS:
- Not the Best Warranty
How We Decided
Compact standing desks are ideal for small rooms or office spaces. Many people simply don’t have the space for a 70-inch wide standing desk, and even if they can manage to squeeze one in, such a large object can look out of place in a small room.
There are hundreds of small standing desks to choose from, so picking the right one can be overwhelming. Our experts tested countless desk options to help you out. We based our decision-making process on four main aspects; desktop size, durability, affordability, and reviews.
When it comes to size, we ensured all of our options are under 48 inches wide, with most being around 40 inches which are considered small or compact. We analyzed the online reviews of each standing desk, making certain they were positive overall from a large database of reviews.
Another crucial aspect we took into consideration is durability. Unfortunately, many standing desk brands sell cheap, unreliable desks that tend to fall apart after just months of use. We guaranteed all our best compact standing desks are well-built from high-quality materials, including quality lifting motors.
Finally, we couldn’t forget affordability. Not everyone can afford a $500 standing desk. Therefore, our team ensured we suggested budget-friendly options for prudent buyers. However, we also included premium, high-end desks with very long warranties for people looking for something that will truly withstand the test of time.
The Benefits of Standing Desks
Incorporating a 50:50 ratio between standing to sitting to your work routine can have tremendous health and productivity benefits.
- They can Prevent Back and Neck Pain: Back and neck pain is a common desk worker problem usually caused by improper sitting and sitting for too long. Working at a standing desk can relieve your body of the pressure caused by sitting for extended periods and prevent pain from occurring. They work especially well combined with ergonomic office chairs. Read more: Best office chairs for neck pain.
- They can Lower Risk of Disease: Too much sitting at work can lead to potentially serious problems such as heart disease. Standing desks allow you to limit your time sitting and potentially lower your risk of disease
- They can be Affordable: Although some electric standing desks can be expensive, there are plenty of good affordable options under $300.
- They promote an Active Lifestyle: A healthy office working position combined with regular cardio promotes an active lifestyle with tremendous health benefits.
What to Consider When Choosing a Small Standing Desk
There are many crucial factors you have to consider when choosing a small standing desk; many of these are often overlooked. Follow our guidelines to choose the right product for you.
How big is the Work Surface?
You need to consider whether your desktop is large enough to feel comfortable and small enough to fit in its dedicated area. Think about how many items and hardware you plan to place on the desktop. Make sure to measure your room space. The last thing you want is to buy a standing desk that is too big for your room.
How much weight can the Desk Handle?
An essential factor to choosing the right standing desk is the maximum weight capacity; it determines how much weight a standing desk can handle. You should think about how much weight you plan to place on the desk. Printers and CPUs are particularly heavy.
Do you need a Monitor Mount?
One essential ergonomic tool standing desk users often forget about is a monitor mount. To ensure you work in the correct position, the monitor should but at eye-level height. Monitor mounts allow you to regulate the height of your monitor. Choose your mount depending on how many monitors you have; pick a single, dual, or triple monitor mount.
What is the Maximum Height?
Your work surface needs to be at the correct height level to maintain the correct working position. Most standing desks are suitable for people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall. However, if you are very tall (over 6 feet 4 inches), you should pick a desk with a maximum height of 48 inches or more. Read our list of the best standing desks for tall people for more information.
How long is the Warranty?
A long warranty is a vital factor when choosing a compact standing desk. If any part of your standing desk breaks, you may be entitled to a free replacement, repair, or refund as long as the warranty period hasn’t expired. We found that the standing desks with the most extended warranties are usually the most expensive. The manufacturer’s warranty indicates how much trust a brand has in its desk.
Final Verdict
The bottom line is that there are many good small standing desk options on the market, and they don’t have to be expensive. Make sure to follow our guidelines to pick the right small standing desk for you and avoid disappointment.
We recommend choosing a standing desk with a sturdy structure, high weight capacity, and a long warranty. By following this rule, you can’t go wrong. Hopefully, this guide has helped you find your ideal standing desk. If you have any questions or suggestions feel free to reach out to us.
FAQs
How long should my standing desk be?
The ideal standing desk length depends on how many monitors you use in your setup and how much room space you have. We recommend standing desks at least 60 inches long for triple monitor setups. For dual monitor setups, at least 48 inches long, and for single monitor setups 10 inches long.
Are dual motor standing desks worth it?
Dual motor standing desks are better than single motor standing desks. Because of the power distribution, dual motor lifting systems are quieter, smoother, and have a higher lifting capacity than single motor systems.
What is the average price of an electric standing desk?
The average price of an electric desk in 203 is between $300 – $600. Affordable options are available for under $300, and the premium, most durable standing desks can cost up to $1000. Of course, the price depends mainly on desktop size, lifting motors, weight capacity, warranty, and build quality.
How long do motorized standing desks last?
The best motorized standing desks can last up to 30 years without motor replacement. However, some cheap knock-offs can fail after only a couple of years. That’s why it’s essential to choose a standing desk brand that offers a long warranty. We recommend choosing a standing desk with a minimum 5-year long warranty.
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