The 9 Best Standing Desks Under $500 in 2023

What to Consider Before Buying an Electric Standing Desk Under $500

Most standing desks seem to be very similar to the newbie buyer; however that is simply not the case, they can vary significantly in size and features. These features can determine if a particular standing desk is the right one for you. Here are a few aspects you should pay close attention to before choosing the best standing desk under $500 for your office.

How big is the desktop area?

Choosing the right desktop area size is critical. It determines how many monitors, desktops, laptops, or keyboards you can fit on the desk without squeezing too tight. Desktop size can also determine the overall feel of the desk; most people prefer a larger desk as it seems to be a more comfortable option. Additionally, you have to think about the dimensions of the area in which the standing desk will be in. The last thing you want is to assemble a standing desk to find out that it doesn’t even fit in your room.

How much weight can the desk handle?

Most standing desks have a weight capacity of 172 lbs, but some are maxed out at 110 lbs. You should be very aware of this, especially if you plan to place heavy office items such as desktop computers or printers on your desk. For example, a single office printer can weigh 60lbs, and a single desktop computer can weigh another 60lbs. Add this up, and you have 120 lbs which a 110 lbs max capacity standing desk will not handle.

Is the standing desk compatible with monitor mounts?

Monitor mounts are used to mount monitors on the back edge of your standing desk; this frees up a lot of space and creates a more comfortable workspace. Many desks are not compatible with monitor stands because they are too thick or thin. Luckily, this article’s featured standing desk options are compatible with monitor mounts. Most brands sell their own compatible monitor stands. For example, the Vivo Electrical Standing Desk is compatible with a Vivo Single Monitor Desk Mount.

Read more: Best dual monitor arms

Does the standing desk have USB charging ports?

USB charging ports are a convenient feature when it comes to standing desks. Having multiple charging ports allows the user to charge several devices while keeping them at arm’s reach. This works well for people who need to be by their phone at all times while working at their standing desk. Additionally, you can plug in mini USB lamps to these ports when you need a little extra light in the evening hours.

Is the standing desk electric or manual?

Nowadays, nearly all standing desks have an electric height-adjustment mechanism that the touch of a button can activate. However, some standing desk options still use a manual crank, usually priced much cheaper than the electric cousins. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and budget; some people still prefer to use manual standing desks, thus saving money in the process.

Does the desk have casters?

Casters are wheels on which the legs of the desk are rested. They allow for easy 360-degree maneuverability of the desk without lifting. These can be locked in position, so the desk doesn’t move while you use it. People looking to buy a standing desk that will need to be moved often should consider one with casters.

What is the height adjustment range?

Most standing desks have a height adjustment range between 25 and 50 inches; some only go up to 45 inches high. Tall people looking to buy a standing desk should consider options with the highest height option of at least 48 inches. Even a few inches can make a huge difference in your standing position.

Does the desk have a child lock feature?

The child lock feature on standing desks usually comes in the form of a child lock button on the controller. This option stops children from using the controller buttons. Kids playing around with standing desks can cause items to fall from the desk, possibly even hurting them. Also, this can break the device completely. People with young children should consider a standing desk with a child lock feature.

What are the frame and worktop materials?

Most standing desks have metal alloy frames and particle board desktops. However, some standing desks, for example, the Eureka Ergonomic Standing Desk, have carbon steel frames. These carbon steel frames offer superior weight capacity and a more robust structure. People looking for those benefits should consider a carbon steel standing desk.

How many height preset slots does the desk controller have?

Height preset slots allow users to save a height preset in their desired desktop position. Once a preset has been saved, a user can simply press the button and watch the desk raise or lower itself rather than manually pressing the up and down buttons. Most standing desks have 3 or 4 height preset slots. To be honest, you only really need two presets; sitting and standing. However, if several people use a standing desk, it might be better to have four height presets to suit their individual needs.

Does the standing desk come with a manufacturer’s warranty?

Most standing desks we found online don’t display their warranty information, although a few options offer a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. These options give buyers peace of mind knowing that they can quickly get their money back or a replacement standing desk if their standing desk breaks down. Choosing options with a good warranty is a wise idea.

Benefits of Standing Desks

Working at a standing desk as opposed to a seating desk can have tremendous health benefits on your body. Here are some of the major benefits of working at a standing desk;

• Working in a standing position promotes an active lifestyle and lowers your chance of gaining weight.
• Standing rather than sitting for at least half of your day can significantly lower your chance of heart disease.
• Working at a standing desk can reduce back and neck pain caused by incorrect seating positions.
• Standing more often can lead to a longer lifespan and even prevent early death.
• Working at a standing desk can improve your overall mood.
• Standing desks can help to improve energy levels.
• Working at a standing desk can even improve productivity levels.
• Standing Desks can improve your posture by working in the right position.

Final Thoughts

In summary, standing desks are a perfect solution for people who struggle with posture while working by their desks at office scenarios. In fact, they are also great for people who simply want to maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle during their office hours. Hopefully by the time you have finished reading this article you have found your perfect choice from our list of the best electric standing chairs under $500.

FAQs

Will standing desks help with back and neck pain?

Standing desks are known for helping those who suffer from back pain and neck pain, especially if this pain has been caused by an incorrect seating or sleeping position. Back and neck pain is also caused by just sitting and laying down for excessive periods of time. Standing desks will help you stay upright for longer, thus eliminating most back and neck pain cases.

Are standing desks really worth it?

If maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle has any importance to you, then yes, standing desks are certainly worth it. For less than $500, you can significantly decrease your chances of having heart disease and early death while also increasing productivity. That sounds like a worthy investment if you ask me.

How long should you stand at a standing desk?

Most sources recommended a ratio of one-hour standing to one-hour sitting while using a standing desk. However, this is debatable; many historical figures such as Charles Dickins actually stood for most periods while perfecting their penmanship. At the end of the day, everybody’s body is different, and your body will let you know which stand/sit ratio is best for you.

Do you lose weight with a standing desk?

Most sources say that just using a standing desk alone will not make you lose weight, and that is partially true. Most people need some form of additional cardio exercise such as running or swimming to lose weight. However, people suffering from bad cases of obesity from sitting down for extended periods may lose weight by simply working in a standing position for a few hours a day. This is because standing burns more calories than sitting, so it may cause weight loss or prevent more weight gain.