I have spent 1,000s of hours learning about, testing, comparing and reviewing dozens of different standing desk converters. I currently have over 40 of them in our testing room. I save them so that we can use them as a reference point for any article we write or customer question we might have.
I am confident in saying that you will not find a more extensive resource for standing desk converters than The Learning Center at BTOD.com. If you’re looking for a full standing desk, check out our best standing desks in 2025 list here.
Full Disclaimer: We are an office furniture dealer and sell some of the products we review. To learn more about the products we sell, our review process and why you can trust us, please visit: Why we’re different. Who is BTOD.com and The Breakroom Blog?
The Best Standing Desk Converters Quick Look
Ergotron WorkFit-S 83/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. The Ergotron WorkFit-S stands out as a versatile standing desk converter, featuring a tilting column design with three tiers. It securely holds monitors, offers an optional work surface, and an adjustable keyboard tray. The ease of adjustment, build quality, and warranty are impressive. Full WorkFit-S Review…
VertDesk Converter 82/100 Rating – See at btod.com. The VertDesk Converter impresses with its robust double z-shaped base, exceptional build quality, and smooth, quiet operation thanks to two gas lift cylinders. Infinite position lock and superior stability set it apart. It accommodates dual 24″ monitors and includes a grommet hole for added convenience. Full VertDesk Converter Review…
Duke VESA 81/100 Rating – See at btod.com. The American-made Duke Vesa features a durable extruded aluminum column, Vesa-mounted monitors, a keyboard platform, and an extra task space platform. Its gas lift and counterbalance system enable easy one-handed height adjustment. The Duke Vesa stands out as one of the most stable standing desk converters. Full Duke Vesa Review…
Innovative Winston 81/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. The Winston WorkStation stands out with its robust vertical metal column and heavy-duty steel base. It boasts a spacious platform for keyboard, mouse, and tasks, along with a Vesa-mounted monitor system capable of handling multiple monitors, including four over 24″. Full Winston Review…
Humanscale QuickStand 81/100 Rating – See at btod.com. The Humanscale QuickStand offers a unique vertical column design with a standard clamp mount for desk attachment or an optional freestanding base. It features Vesa mounts for monitors, dual ergonomic adjustments, and a wire management system with concealed plugs for a tidy workspace. Full QuickStand Review…
HealthPostures TaskMate 6100 78/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. The American-made TaskMate Executive boasts a single z-shaped base atop your desk, powered by a linear actuator for easy adjustment via front buttons. It includes a monitor platform, a versatile keyboard tray, and infinite position lock capability. Full 6100 Review…
Ergotron WorkFit-A 77/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. The WorkFit-A is a high-quality standing desk converter that clamps to your desk, functioning like a monitor arm. It’s adjustable, easy to use, and can swing out of the way when not in use. Full WorkFit-A Review…
Humanscale QuickStand Eco 77/100 Rating – See at btod.com. QuickStand Eco by Humanscale is a cost-effective alternative to their premium product, offering strong warranty, sleek design, and three versions for laptops, single, or dual monitors. It’s user-friendly, with a counterbalance keyboard tray and accommodates users up to 6’7″. Full Eco Review…
DCX760 76/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. Victor introduces the DCX760, a dual fixed platform converter with a double x-shaped base for straight vertical movement. Its gas cylinders make height adjustment effortless, offering 12 height options. This stable converter accommodates dual 24″ monitors and oversized keyboards. Full DCX760 Review…
Ergotron WorkFit-T 76/100 Rating – See at amazon.com. The WorkFit-T features a double z-shaped base with spring-assisted vertical movement, unique for moving straight up and down. Conveniently controlled by two handles, it offers 20 height options. Impressively stable at both sitting and standing heights, it accommodates dual 24″ monitors. Full WorkFit-T Review…
What is a standing desk converter?
A standing desk converter is a product that is placed on top of, or attached to, a desk or table that allows you to stand while working. Some people love their existing desk and don’t want to give it up. Other people may not have enough room for a full standing desk and some may simply want a low-priced option. Standing desk converters open the door for almost anyone to be able to stand while working.
The Best Standing Desk Converter List
1. Ergotron WorkFit-S Converter – 83/100 Rating
Ergotron WorkFit-S Starting Price: $839.00 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
WorkFit-S Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Keyboard lowers below desk |
Cons:
Keyboard bounce |
Ergotron WorkFit-S Summary
The Ergotron WorkFit-S is the most well-rounded standing desk converter I have tested. It is a post mount system with a column that tilts away from you. It features a three-tier system and mounts to the front of your desk.
The top tier holds your monitor(s) with Vesa mounts. The second tier has space available for you to add an optional work surface. The third tier is a keyboard tray. The entire unit is highly adjustable and features a keyboard tray that can be adjusted to be below your desk.
There are no buttons or levers needed for adjustment and they are all very easy to perform due to the counterbalance system used. The WorkFit-S has a really nice build quality and an industry leading warranty.
The biggest downfalls with the WorkFit-S will come with the keyboard tray. It has more bounce than most converters and is also fairly small which will limit your keyboard choices.
2. VertDesk Converter – 82/100 Rating
VertDesk Converter Price: $499.99 Where to buy: Buy on BTOD
Read Full VertDesk Standing Desk Converter Review >>
VertDesk Converter Pros and Cons
| Pros:
30 day risk free trial |
Cons:
Raises minimum height when sitting |
VertDesk Converter Summary
The VertDesk Converter has a double z shaped base. The build quality is the highest I have seen on a fixed dual platform converter. The unit has two gas lift cylinders that operate smoothly and quietly. There are two handles underneath the monitor platform that you need to hold down in order to allow the platforms to move up and down.
Adjusting the unit is easy and you are not limited to a set number of heights because it has infinite position lock. The VertDesk Converter is currently the most stable product we have tested. The platform is large enough to fit dual 24” monitors and it also comes with a standard grommet hole.
The downside is that you will need to use a monitor arm to for dual ergonomic functionality. The keyboard tray is also quite small so your keyboard options will be more limited than other some competing models.
3. BTOD Duke Vesa – 81/100 Rating
Duke VESA Price: $721.99 Where to buy: Buy on BTOD
Read Full Duke VESA Sit Stand Desk Converter Review >>
Duke VESA Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Made in USA |
Cons:
Difficult monitor height adjustment |
BTOD Duke VESA Summary
The Duke Vesa is another product that tests well in almost every category. The Duke is one of a few products on this list that is American made.
It features a vertical extruded aluminum column with a solid steel place. It sits on top of your desk and can be turned or moved if needed. It has Vesa mounted monitors and a separate platform for your keyboard.
There is also a raised secondary platform that can be used for additional task space. The height adjustment is assisted with a gas lift and counterbalance system that is easy enough to use with one hand. The Duke Vesa’s keyboard tray has a very slim profile to your desk and features almost 17” of adjustment range. The Duke Vesa is one of the most stable standing desk converters I have tested.
The biggest downside with the Duke Vesa is that the monitor height adjustment is a bit difficult to perform.
4. Innovative Winston – 81/100 Rating
Innovative Winston Starting Price: $708.99 Where to buy: Unavailable
Read Full Innovative Winston Workstation Review >>
Innovative Winston Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Large Work surface |
Cons:
Difficult monitor height adjustment |
Innovative Winston Summary
The Winston WorkStation features a vertical metal column with heavy duty steel base. The unit sits on top of your desk with the ability to move around your desktop.
It has a very large, single platform that is used for your keyboard, mouse and tasking. The unit features a Vesa mounted monitor system with fully adjustable monitors.
The Winston is one of the few converters that allows for multiple monitors over 24” and is the only converter I know of that can hold four monitors. The unit features dual ergonomics with a massive adjustment range and infinite position lock on the platform and monitor.
The Winston struggles with a couple things. It has a difficult monitor height adjustment process. You will need to loosen a couple screws and then re-tighten them after adjusting the height. It also features a very thick keyboard tray that increases your minimum keyboard tray height by almost 1.5”. This can create an awkward typing position for some people when sitting.
5. Humanscale QuickStand – 81/100 Rating
Humanscale QuickStand Price: $970.99 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full Humanscale Quickstand Converter Review >>
Humanscale QuickStand Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Attractive design and high build quality |
Cons:
Long shipping time |
Humanscale QuickStand Summary
The Humanscale QuickStand features a vertical column that tilts away from you. The QuickStand comes standard with a clamp mount that attaches to the back of your desk. You can go with a freestanding base for an upcharge. The monitors are attached with Vesa mounts and the unit features a separate platform for typing and tasking.
The QuickStand is dual ergonomic with large adjustments ranges. The counterbalance system makes all of the adjustments easy to perform and can be done within seconds. The QuickStand stands out from the crowd because of its sleek design and fully integrated wire management system. The unit has plugs built into the column so you can fully hide your cords from sight.
The biggest downside on the QuickStand is going to be the keyboard tray. The standard model is only big enough for a keyboard and mouse and also puts you very close to the monitors. If you want task space or an optimal viewing experience, then you need to upgrade to the large platform.
6. HealthPostures TaskMate Executive 6100 – 78/100 Rating
TaskMate Executive Price: $640.00 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full HealthPosture TaskMate Executive Sit Stand Converter Review >>
TaskMate Executive Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Keyboard lowers below desk |
Cons:
High price point |
HealthPostures TaskMate Executive 6100 Summary
The TaskMate Executive is American made and features a single z shaped base that sits on top of your desk. It is powered by a linear actuator and is adjusted by pressing the up or down button on the front of the unit. It has a platform on top for your monitor and a separate keyboard tray that can adjust on its own in several directions. The keyboard is capable of lowering below your normal desk height and the entire unit has infinite position lock.
There are some negatives to consider with the TaskMate Executive. Although it is made in the USA, the unit features Chinese made electronics. These are not only low quality but add to my safety concerns. It has very noticeable keyboard bounce at all heights and also lacks a wire management system, which is something I expected to see on such a high-priced item. The movement pattern is also something to be aware of since the unit pushes you so far away from your desk when it is lowered.
7. Ergotron WorkFit-A – 77/100 Rating
Ergotron WorkFit-A Price: $699.00 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full Ergotron WorkFit-A Desk Converter Review >>
Ergotron WorkFit-A Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Strong warranty |
Cons:
Poor stability |
Ergotron WorkFit-A Summary
The WorkFit-A is a high-quality product that operates the same way as a monitor arm. It mounts to the back of your desk with a clamp. At the end of the arm is a Vesa mount for your monitors and a platform for your keyboard tray. You can opt for a small work surface for an upcharge.
The WorkFit-A is one of the most adjustable standing desk converters available. It has several points of adjustment and almost all of them are tension controlled with a counterbalance system. The counterbalance makes the product very easy to adjust.
The WorkFit-A is a nice option for people that would like to be able to use their existing desktop when needed since the unit can swing out of the way.
There are some drawbacks to the WorkFit-A. The unit has very noticeable keyboard bounce and monitor movement. There is also very limited task space for standing height, even when adding the optional platform.
8. Humanscale QuickStand Eco – 77/100 Rating
QuickStand Eco Price: $699.99 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full Humanscale Quickstand Eco Converter Review >>
QuickStand Eco Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Strong warranty |
Cons:
Keyboard bounce |
Humanscale QuickStand Eco Summary
The QuickStand Eco is a more price friendly version of their premium QuickStand product. You still get the strong warranty, high-end build and sleek look that Humanscale is known for, but at a lower price point.
It comes in three versions: a tray only for laptop use, single monitor or dual monitor. The monitors are attached to the column with vesa mounts. The Eco features a post and tray design that sits on top of your desk. The counterbalance keyboard tray adjustment is incredibly easy to use and offers infinite-position lock. The Eco comes standard with dual ergonomics and it has a large enough adjustment range for people up to 6’7”.
There are some drawbacks to the Eco. It does not have an easy monitor adjustment, like the premium QuickStand. Instead, you will need to remove screws to adjust the height. This unit is also not quite as ergonomic in the seated position because the keyboard design increases the minimum height over an inch.
9. DCX760 – 76/100 Rating
DCX760 Price: $330.99 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full DCX760 Standing Desk Converter Review >>
DCX760 Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Stable at all heights |
Cons:
Dual ergonomics requires monitor arm |
DCX760 Summary
Victor came out with their version of a dual fixed platform converter in the form of the DCX760. It has a double x shaped base that produces a lifting pattern that moves straight up and down. The adjustment process is easy to perform because of the gas cylinders. You have 12 different height options to choose from.
The DCX760 is stable at all heights so you do not need to worry about things like keyboard bounce or monitor movement. One of the most attractive features on it is the large platforms. The monitor platform has enough room for dual 24” monitors and some additional accessories.
The keyboard tray is also very large, so this is a nice option for people that like to use oversized keyboards.
The main downsides to the DCX760 come in the ergonomics department. A lack of dual ergonomics, infinite position lock and increased minimum keyboard height will take away from the ergonomics of the DCX760.
10. Ergotron Workfit-T – 76/100 Rating
Workfit-T Price: $535.00 Where to buy: Buy on Amazon
Read Full Ergotron Workfit-T Standing Desk Converter Review >>
Workfit-T Pros and Cons
| Pros:
Strong warranty |
Cons:
Not dual ergonomic |
Ergotron Workfit-T Summary
The WorkFit-T has a double z shaped base with movement being assisted by springs on each side. The WorkFit-T is a unique z lift converter because it moves straight up and down instead of pushing you out from your desk.
There are two handles underneath the monitor platform that control the height adjustment. The springs do a nice job of making the height adjustment very simple. It does not have infinite position lock but has 20 different height options to choose from.
The WorkFit-T is one of the most stable standing desk converters I have tested at sitting and standing height. The monitor platform is very large but it does have a cut-out in the front to make room for the keyboard tray. You can still fit dual 24” monitors and still have a little space for tasking.
This design choice creates a large downside though; the keyboard tray is very small so you are limited to compact keyboards only. The WorkFit-T will also need some help from a monitor arm to make it dual ergonomic.
Other Standing Desk Converters We Tested
| Rank | Product | Keyboard Space | Ease of Use | Stability | Ergonomics | Task Space | Build Quality | Warranty | Total |
| #11 | Eureka 36 | 7.0 | 9.2 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 8.2 | 5.4 | 7.4/10 |
| #12 | TaskMate Go 6300 | 8.0 | 7.5 | 6.4 | 8.5 | 5.3 | 7.0 | 9.0 | 7.3/10 |
| #13 | Fully Cooper | 8.0 | 7.5 | 8.7 | 6.5 | 9.0 | 8.0 | 3.6 | 7.3/10 |
| #14 | Varidesk Cube Corner | 7.0 | 7.5 | 6.9 | 6.5 | 7.3 | 6.5 | 8.0 | 7.1/10 |
| #15 | VariDesk EXEC 40 | 6.0 | 7.5 | 7.3 | 6.0 | 8.2 | 6.5 | 8.0 | 7.0/10 |
| #16 | BTOD Duke Mount | 7.2 | 9.4 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 2.0 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 7.0/10 |
| #17 | VersaDesk Power Pro | 6.5 | 10 | 6.9 | 6.5 | 7.2 | 6.5 | 5.4 | 7.0/10 |
| #18 | Victor DC300 & DC350 | 7.8 | 7.5 | 7.1 | 6.5 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 5.4 | 7.0/10 |
| #19 | FlexiSpot M5 | 4.9 | 9.3 | 7.2 | 6.5 | 8.0 | 7.0 | 5.4 | 6.9/10 |
| #20 | Ergo Desktop Kangaroo | 7.8 | 6.5 | 7.9 | 6.8 | 6.0 | 7.5 | 5.6 | 6.8/10 |
| #21 | SimplyFast Ascend | 8.3 | 7.5 | 8.2 | 7.0 | 1.0 | 9.5 | 6.6 | 6.8/10 |
| #22 | AirRise Pro | 6.0 | 6.0 | 7.9 | 4.5 | 7.5 | 6.0 | 90 | 6.7/10 |
| #23 | TaskMate EZ 6400 | 5.0 | 6.0 | 7.9 | 6.0 | 5.0 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 6.7/10 |
| #24 | Uplift Riser or Clamp | 6.2 | 8.0 | 8.1 | 8.0 | 6.5 | 7.0 | 3.6 | 6.7/10 |
| #25 | Humanscale QuickStand Lite | 6.1 | 8.0 | 4.7 | 9.2 | 1.0 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 6.7/10 |
| #26 | Varidesk Pro Plus 36 | 7.0 | 8.5 | 6.4 | 5.0 | 7.0 | 5.5 | 8.0 | 6.7/10 |
| #27 | Halter ED-258 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 8.8 | 4.0 | 7.0 | 6.0 | 1.8 | 6.5/10 |
| #28 | InMovement DT2 | 5.9 | 8.5 | 6.2 | 6.0 | 9.5 | 5.5 | 1.8 | 6.2/10 |
| #29 | VIVO DESK-V000B | 5.1 | 6.5 | 8.8 | 3.8 | 8.5 | 6.0 | 1.8 | 5.7/10 |
| #30 | Varidesk Laptop 30 | N/A | 9.0 | 7.5 | 1.0 | 5.5 | 7.0 | 1.8 | 5.3/10 |
| #31 | Stand Steady X-Elite Pro | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.9 | 1.0 | 6.0 | 5.0 | .15 | 5.0/10 |
| #32 | Rocelco ADR / Lorrell Riser | 5.6 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 3.0 | 6.0 | 4.0 | 1.8 | 4.7/10 |
| #33 | Amazon Basics Converter | 8.3 | 6.5 | 3.9 | 1.0 | 6.0 | 2.0 | 1.8 | 4.2/10 |
Why trust The Breakroom Blog?
Simply put, we are experts. We have been selling office furniture for 12 years and have seen the standing desk converter market grow from the beginning. We are not a company that is simply dedicated to writing reviews on emerging markets in hopes of making a quick buck. Office furniture is our life and we have gained extensive knowledge about the products within our space. We know what to look for and what to avoid. Our goal is to share this knowledge so that customers are better informed when making their buying decision.
One thing that really separates The Breakroom Blog from almost every other review site is that we bring in all of the products that we review. We do not do forensic reviews or reviews based on what other customers have said about the product. We order the product for ourselves so that we know how it performs. Some of the products we sell on BTOD.com but many of them we do not. Regardless, we have tested every product we have reviewed.
What is our standing desk converter testing process?
Our testing process takes us through the entire customer buying experience. We place an order for the given product. When the item arrives, we document the quality of packaging, check for damage and then perform any required assembly. If we receive a damaged or defective product, then we will reach out to customer service and document how the company handled the situation.
After getting the desktop converter assembled and set-up with monitors, a keyboard, etc., we will begin to use the product while performing our normal office tasks. After using it enough to get a good feel for the product, we will test things like stability and ease of use. We then compare the converter to the other converters in our office. We will also look over the build and design choice so that we can point out any positives or potential flaws with the build quality. Once we feel that we have enough experience and knowledge about the converter, we will begin to write about it. This process allows us to fully experience the product so that we know exactly what a customer should expect if they buy it.
How did we pick the best sit-stand desk converter for 2025?
All of the converters we have reviewed have been given an overall numbered score ranging from 1-100. The score is based on several categories that we chose. The categories below are what we feel to be the most important things to consider when shopping for a standing desk converter. Each category has its own 1-100 rating and each category has the same weight when calculating the overall score. One thing that you will notice with our scoring is that we are very realistic. There is no such thing as a perfect standing desk converter and our scores reflect that. You will not find products with 100/100 ratings here because such a product doesn’t exist. We have yet to find a converter that has scored an 85/100.
Keyboard space
The keyboard space score is designed to show how useful the space will be for your keyboard and mouse. This score will be determined based on size, shape and whether there are any restrictions on your mouse pattern. Things like small space and awkward cut-outs could be a couple of reasons for a lower score.
Ease of Use
This category is used to show how easy the product is to operate. We look at the amount of physical effort required and the number of screws, knobs or levers needed to adjust the product. A product might have a simple keyboard tray adjustment but difficult monitor height adjustment, which would cause a deduction for that product.
Stability
We test the stability of the keyboard and monitor at sitting height and standing height. We also take a look at the overall construction of the unit to see if it has any issues with things like poor locking systems, wiggling platforms or potential risks of tipping.
Ergonomics
The ergonomics score will depend on several factors. We consider things like overall adjustment range, dual ergonomics, infinite position lock and keyboard tray tilt. Products lacking in these factors will have deductions in their ergonomics score.
Task Space
This score is based purely on the usability of the task space provided. Large surfaces with standard shapes will receive the highest scores. There are numerous products that have very large monitor platforms with pronounced cut-outs in the front of the platform. This would be a good example of products that get a deduction in task space because it is not as useful as a standard rectangle.
Build Quality
This score is used to show the level of technology and the quality of the components used. This category is the best indicator for how long we feel a product will last. Products with low-quality metal, platforms or electronics will see deductions to their build quality score.
Warranty
The warranty score is based on the length of coverage and whether or not there are any exclusions. A converter may have a five-year warranty but if the moving parts are only covered for two years, then it will get a lower score than a product with a comprehensive five-year warranty.
Popular Standing Desk Converter Categories
There are now literally hundreds of different sit-stand converter products available. They come in a variety of design choices. While there are no two converters that are exactly alike. We have found that they almost all fall within five major categories: Fixed Dual Platforms, Post & Tray, Floating, Electric and Single Platform & Laptop. There are inherent advantages and disadvantages to be found within each category. I will go over the main differences between these different designs below.
1. Fixed Dual Platforms Converters
The category with the largest number of converters is the fixed dual-platform category. These products feature a monitor platform and a keyboard tray. The keyboard tray will be positioned a few inches below the monitor platform and will remain at that distance during height adjustments. They will have springs or gas lifts to aid in the height adjustment process. The one area that can differ in these products is their base design. All of the models I have tested fall within these four base designs: z shaped, double z shaped, x shaped and double x shaped.
Z shape
A z shaped base features a single arm that lays flat when you lower the converter and raises vertically when you move to standing height. This creates an arcing movement pattern that pushes you away from your desk when sitting and brings you closer to the desk when standing. This design allows the keyboard tray to be at the same level as your desk or lower. This is the only type of fixed dual-platform converter I have found that doesn’t increase your keyboard height when sitting.
Double Z shape
The double z shaped base is one of the most popular bases and it is the base used by the well-known Varidesk Pro Plus. This base has two arms that run from the base to the underside of the monitor platform. This type of design functions in the opposite way of the single z shaped. Your platforms will move out toward you as you raise the unit and the platforms will collapse back on the desk when lowered. Having a double z compared to a single allows for much larger work surfaces to be well supported.
X shape
An x shaped base can best be compared to your typical ironing board. The bottom of the base narrows in order to push the platforms higher and it widens to lower the platforms. The movement pattern on an x shaped base is straight up and down. One difference between x shaped bases and other products is that they will adjust slower when getting to taller heights and they will also take more effort at taller heights.
Double X shape
A double x shaped base has two X shaped metal arms that run from the base to the underside of the work surface. There is an X on each side of the platform which makes the platform well supported. The x shaped base produces a straight up and down movement pattern. Having two X’s compared to one makes the adjustment speed more consistent.
The main selling points for this type of converter are its ease of use and lack of assembly. They have very basic functionality, usually only featuring height adjustment. This makes them simple to use since they are not overly complicated with lots of different adjustments and moving parts. Almost all of these converters arrive ready to go out of the box which makes them an attractive option for people that don’t want to perform assembly.
The largest drawback to the fixed dual platform design is their lack of ergonomics. None of these products are dual ergonomic without the addition of a monitor arm. Almost all of them will raise your keyboard height when sitting and many of them have high monitor platforms when sitting. Very few of these converters have an adjustment range wide enough for people over 6’0” and many of these items are limited to a set number of heights.
2. Post & Tray Converters
With four products scoring 80+, the post & tray category offers some of the highest end standing desk converters. The post with either have a freestanding metal base or it will be mounted to your desk with a clamp or grommet. It will then have a keyboard tray that is attached to the column. Some models have really large keyboard trays so that they can double as task space. Other models offer a different space for tasking on a separate tier. Most models will have Vesa mounting systems but there are a few products that offer an additional platform to use a monitor on a stand.
The biggest advantage to the post & tray products is their ergonomics and adjustability. All of the products shown in this category have dual ergonomics and large adjustment ranges. Most of them have infinite position lock and a couple of them have keyboards that go well below your desk. They each feature numerous adjustments and many are easy enough to adjust with a single hand.
The major drawbacks to products in this category are the price and how imposing they can be. The large column with multiple monitors has a large presence in your office. Some of these models also require that you mount them to your desk, which may be a problem for some people. Most of the products in this category are $500 – $800 which is quite a bit higher than the dual fixed platform converters that are usually priced around $300.
3. Floating Converters
Floating standing desk converters operate the same way as a monitor arm. They just have an attachment for a keyboard tray, along with your monitor. Some models will also give you the option to add a task space to the converter. Most products are mounted to the back of your desk with a clamp mount but there are grommet mount options available as well. The converter is tension adjustable based on the weight of your monitors.
The major attraction to the floating sit-stand converters is their desktop versatility and huge range of adjustment. Having the ability to fully articulate the arm allows you to create an unlimited number of working positions. You can swing the unit away from your desk when you don’t need it, freeing up your normal desk space. You can also easily share your screen with other people in the room since you can easily turn it in any direction. The large adjustment range also makes these products ergonomic for short and tall people.
The downsides to this design are that it lacks stability and task space. Having your monitors and keyboard tray hanging so far away from the point that it is attached to your desk means that it is not going be stable. There is an excessive amount of overall bounce on all of the products in this category. They are all among the least stable standing desk converters tested. The lack of task space is also a problem since most people want to have their most used objects right next to them instead of down on their desk.
4. Electric Standing Desk Converters
Electric standing desk converters are powered by a motor and controlled with the push of a button. The design choices will have the most variation within this category. We have tested electric converters with post & tray designs, dual fixed platforms and even single z shaped. While the designs are typically quite different, they do share very similar upsides and downsides.
The biggest advantage with an electric converter is that it requires no physical effort. You simply press a button and the motor does all the work. This is great for people with an injury, medical condition or low strength. Some electric converters also offer higher weight ratings than the 30 lbs. range we see on most sit stand converters which is attractive for people that want to load their desk with more items.
The major drawback to electric converters is that you don’t really gain much yet you are adding a lot of risk. By adding electronics, you’ve changed something from being simple but functional to something that is complicated with a much higher chance to fail. Almost all electric desktop converters are being sourced with cheap Chinese electronics. This only increases the likelihood that the electronics will fail.
5. Single Platform & Laptop Converters
Products found in this list are going to be the most basic standing desk converters and will often times be among the lowest priced options. Single platform units will most commonly have a single x shaped base and can often times have a custom designed base that doesn’t fall into any of the major categories. These products will typically have a rectangle shaped platform with height adjustment only.
The main attraction to these products is going be their low price point and versatility. Some people don’t want to spend $300+ for a standing desk converter that they use on a limited basis. Having a single platform converter that can fold down and be carried is useful for a lot more applications than just your standard monitor and keyboard set-up. These products are nice for small spaces and many of them fold down to be compact enough to take with you on the go or store away under your desk or in a closet.
The biggest downsides to the single platform & laptop products are their lack of ergonomics and poor build quality. Almost all of them are not usable when sitting because their minimum height is so high. You will need to take most of them off your desk when you want to sit. They also lack dual ergonomics since they have a single platform and have limited height adjustment ranges. These products will typically have lower build qualities with short warranties so the life expectancy will be shorter on products like these.
Additional Standing Desk Resources
Jeffrey G
Hi Ryan,
I just wanted to say thank you and your coworkers for providing all this information about standing desk converters. Your research is really valuable and it has saved me and my friends time and money.
We decided that current converters do not fit our needs and will be getting electric standing desks instead.
I hope you have a lovely week!!
An
Have you ever tested or reviewed the Workrite Solace electric standing desk converter?
Greg Knighton
I’m sorry, we have not tested that product.
San
Could you help me choosing a stand up desk? I need enough keyboard tray for full size keyboard and mouse confortable with a max width and deep of 28 and 24 respectively. If its possible with keyboard tray below desk. Thanks.
BTOD.com
San,
How much space do you require for the keyboard and mouse, to be comfortable?
Mike
I’m trying to find a converter desk that has a keyboard tray that can be down (as they almost all are) or lifted up to level with the rest of the platform.
Does it exist, or do I need to buy the cheap 30”x15” ish laptop deal?
Thank you!
BTOD.com
The Ergotron Workfit-A is the best converter for ergonomics. I believe it will accomplish the tasks you are needing.