StandDesk was a project started on Kickstarter to make an affordable, motorized sit-to-stand desk. I consider myself moderately healthy, so I had been looking into options to get up and move around more since I started my desk job a little over 2 years ago. Web developer is not an occupation that tends to be a very active day job, and gives me plenty of time to read articles about how sitting is killing me.
I’ve been pleased with the other Kickstarter campaigns I’ve funded too. I got a nifty little multitool that has proven to save me a few times. Mostly for opening beer1. I also recently funded the Writer Emergency Pack. Now if I would just get started on that screenplay. With that in mind, and being one of supreme fiscal decisions, I decided to give StandDesk a shot.
Features
I went with the deluxe memory control and added on the cable management tray2. The StandDesk boasts a height range of 28″ to 45″ and can hold up to 225 lbs. Coming in at $508.99 with a laminate top, it isn’t exactly cheap, but neither are medical bills. And the Kickstarter price was a bit discounted.
Setup
Putting the StandDesk together was your usual screw these bolts here with this little allen wrench for about an hour. Then just plug in your controls and your desk and you’re good to go. Although the predrilled holes for my controls were about an inch too close3. That’s all it takes.
Performance
The StandDesk is definitely easy to use, which makes it much easier to remember to actually stand during the day. I’ve got the memory control which let’s me store up to 4 preset heights that are just a push away. Or you can hit the up or down arrow and the desk will raise or lower until you hit the button again. It does have a little give when I lean on the edge of the desk, and it can sway from side-to-side a bit. Though they off now offering a crossbar to help with the sway.
Conclusion
The StandDesk isn’t going to make you lose weight. That’s going to require you to stop drinking beer4. And that’s not going to happen. But it does help mitigate two of the big hurdles to being more active at a desk job. Price and ease. There may be cheaper standing desk options, but you’re probably looking at a manual raise, and that’s just one more thing to keep you from doing it regularly.
I don’t have enough data, but I’ve been mapping my energy and I’ve noticed I’m consistently giving higher marks after standing for even just 30 minutes. Plus the ability to easily set my desk to standing when I’m dozing off on a 2 hour conference call makes it worth it.
- Although, the one time I didn’t have my keys I had to make do with my palm and the cement block around a light pole.
- Highly recommended if you get the desk
- One screw has been fine and holding them on, so far.
- And probably exercise a little
