Pros and Cons of Standing Desk Converters

Standing desk converters are a quickly growing segment of the office furniture industry, but are they worth it? Since they sit on top of existing desks and are relatively inexpensive compared to a new desk, these converters are a quick solution to traditional desk woes.

It’s important to know the downsides, though. Standing desk converters tend to be bulky, will limit the ergonomics of your workspace, and raise only your keyboard, laptop or monitor.

PROS OF STANDING DESK CONVERTERS

Standing desk converters seem like a one size fits all solution, and in a way, they are. You don’t need to replace your existing desk, but you still experience the health benefits of changing up your work station throughout the day.

Converters are a Lower Investment

While it may be tempting to purchase a new desk setup, it can also get pricey. Especially if you’re looking to replace them for the entire office. Standing desk converters are a lower investment for a similar benefit. You can sit or stand in the same way as with a full sit-stand desk, but without the cost.

But I Love My Desk!

If you’re happy with your current desk’s design, functionality, and storage capacities, then a standing desk converter could be all you need. It doesn’t require you to replace your desk and allows you to work both sitting and standing.

Standing Desk Converters for Transitional Phases

Standing desk converters are beneficial if your company will be expanding into a new office with new furniture, but you still have time before its ready. You want your team to be healthy in this transitional time, so investing in this lower cost and portable option can be the right move.

Varidesk example

Cons of Standing Desk Converters

There are also some downsides to purchasing a standing desk converter for yourself and your team.

Converters Are Bulky

In order for these desk converters to hold your laptop, second monitor, mouse, and keyboard (or any combination thereof), it needs to take up a significant amount of space on your desk. The excess area can’t be used for other items, so it’s wasted desk space.

This bulk also means they don’t look as aesthetically pleasing as fully integrated sit-stand desks. There’s an additional tool sitting on top of your desk, and it can impede conversation and collaboration during meetings.

Standing Desk Converters Are Less Ergonomic While Sitting

It’s essential to remember ergonomics in the office. With the right ergonomic design, you and your team will be healthier, happier and more productive. Because of standing desk converters’ bulk, they do not fold flat on your desk. Unless your office chair can move up, you’ll be working at an ergonomically unsound angle. 

Converters Raise Just Part of the Desk

Standing desk converters are built for your immediate workspace, not the entirety of it. If you’re working on an extensive project and need additional space, you’re confined to the lowered position. Even then, your monitor, mouse, and keyboard will be on a platform slightly higher than the rest of your desk, making it difficult to transition from physical documents to your screen throughout the day.

While there are pros to using a standing desk converter, there are a number of cons as well. Before purchasing these converters for you or your staff, make sure you review these positive and negatives.

For an alternative to standing desk converters, check out our WeDesk Open or WeDesk Private series.

Omnirax WeDesk example