Buying a standing desk is a rare event for many people. While a few might be getting their second one, most are new to standing desks. These desks have been around for a while, but they’re more in demand now. If you’re thinking of getting one for work or home, a buying guide can help. First-time buyers often make mistakes, and choosing the wrong desk could mean missing out on its benefits. Below you will find the top widespread mistakes people make when buying a standing desk.
Buy Just the Frame, Not the Desk Top Yet
Many people create a do-it-yourself standing desk by choosing a commercial frame and then finding a separate top, usually for reasons like saving money or not preferring the options from the frame’s vendor. However, there’s a risk that the chosen top might not meet expectations or could end up costing much more than planned. In some cases, buyers end up simplifying their purchase by opting for a top from the original frame vendor after all. To avoid any of these problems do by the link and enjoy the process of finding the right desk.
When you explore popular standing desk brands, you’ll notice that the prices for just the tops can be quite high, often reaching 50-75% of the total cost of a full desk setup. This pricing strategy is largely due to the additional shipping costs incurred when tops and frames are sold separately. In other instances, it might be that the vendor aims to earn a higher profit margin on the top. To circumvent these issues, it’s advisable to thoroughly research and relish the process of selecting the ideal desk. Investigate the cost of purchasing the surface separately and confirm the availability of alternate tops that meet your needs.
Choosing a Standing Desk of Incorrect Size
Selecting a standing desk that is either too small or too large for your needs can lead to unnecessary expenses. Depending on the manufacturer, making size adjustments after the purchase can lead to additional charges, including restocking and return shipping fees. Moreover, the disruption in work continuity, while waiting for the desk exchange, can affect productivity.
It is crucial to accurately assess the amount of space needed to work comfortably and efficiently. Generally, opting for a larger desk is beneficial as it accommodates more items at a standing height. However, this advantage holds until the desk size exceeds the spatial limitations of your working area. Therefore, it is imperative to measure your workspace accurately and possibly create a mock-up of your desk setup. This approach will help you understand the necessary space for your desk items and ensure that the desk size is just right for your working environment.
Delay in Purchasing Accessories
Not buying accessories immediately is another common error that can end up costing more. Many companies offer discounts on accessories when bought together with the desk, mainly to save on shipping costs.
Also, think about the assembly of these accessories. Adding items like keyboard trays or CPU holders is easier when the desk is not yet fully set up. Trying to install these parts on a fully assembled and loaded desk can be cumbersome, often requiring you to clear and flip the desk to attach them correctly.
Some brands have policies like no restocking fees and free returns for accessories, making it wise to inquire about such policies if you’re considering additional purchases.
Misjudging the Need for High-Lifting Capacity
A higher lifting capacity doesn’t always mean a better standing desk, which is a common misunderstanding. Additionally, many weight capacity claims are made by the sellers and may not be verified by the actual manufacturers.
Evaluate the weight you currently place on your desk and add 20% more to ensure safety. Typically, a desk needs to support 75-100 lbs., plus the surface weight.
Overlooking Stability in Your Choice
The stability of a standing desk varies with each user, making it a subjective factor, yet it’s crucial. Think of it like the slight wobble in some pub or restaurant tables—some find it annoying, while others don’t mind.
Stability issues in standing desks are often design-related and hard to fix post-manufacture. A minor flaw in the desk’s frame or top can lead to noticeable wobbling, similar to an unstable restaurant table.
Particularly if you tend to move a lot, type heavily, or lean on your desk, you might find stability issues more pronounced. If you’re sensitive to such movements, ensure to check the desk’s stability before purchasing.
Misconception of Wider Desks and Stability
A common belief is that a wider standing desk frame means more stability, but this isn’t necessarily true. A broader frame doesn’t automatically solve stability issues.
We tested the stability of 48-inch and 72-inch desk frames and found that the stability difference between them was negligible. Our tests showed that the size difference in frames didn’t significantly affect how stable the desks felt.
Comparing Low and High-Priced Standing Desks
With the rise of standing desks, many new brands have entered the market, often claiming their desks are of premium quality and stability. However, a $400 standing desk won’t match the quality of a $1500 one. This doesn’t mean cheaper desks lack value; they just serve different needs.
Deciding between a $400 desk and a $1500 premium one depends on what you value in a desk. High-end desks often feature superior internal components and craftsmanship.
Ultimately, desks ranging from $400 to $1500 will perform the basic function of moving up and down. If your main goal is simply to stand while working, a more affordable desk might be the right choice for you.
Purchasing a new standing desk can be a smooth process. With knowledge of the top eight mistakes, you can steer clear of the usual problems. Choosing the correct standing desk from the start will help you transition to standing quickly.
