Sitting for 8 hours a day is the new smoking, but throwing out your landlord's built-in desk isn't an option. You need a way to stand without remodeling your apartment.
Enter the Standing Desk Converter: the ugly but effective way to save your life (and your security deposit). We compared the best options to see which ones are stable enough to type on without wobbling.
The Problem with Cheap Converters
Most cheap converters ($50-80) have a "X-lift" design that pushes the keyboard towards you as it rises. This forces you to step back, eating up room space. Better converters lift straight up.
1. VIVO Desk Riser (32 inch)
– The Best Value
Why: It is rock solid. It holds dual monitors. It has a dedicated keyboard tray.
Downside: It is heavy to lift manually (gas spring assisted, but still takes effort).
The Best Value
VIVO Desk Riser (32 inch)
$100
- Gas Spring
- 32-inch wide
2. VariDesk Pro Plus 36
– The Premium Pick
Why: Vari (formerly VariDesk) invented this category. The build quality is tank-like. It is weighted perfectly so it never tips.
Downside: Very expensive.
The Premium Pick
VariDesk Pro Plus 36
$425
- Weighted Base
- Tiered Design
3. FlexiSpot Motorized Riser
– The Electric Option
Why: Push a button, it goes up. No straining your back to lift the gear.
Downside: You need another power outlet.
The Electric Option
FlexiSpot Motorized Riser
$200
- Electric Lift
- USB Port
Final Verdict
If you are on a budget, get the VIVO. It does 90% of what the VariDesk does for 25% of the price. Just be prepared to use a little muscle to lift it.
What we like
- Allows standing without replacing furniture
- Portable (can move to new apt)
- Cheaper than a full desk
What could be better
- Takes up massive desk space
- Can look bulky
