8 Common Types of Raising and Lowering Desk to Know
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8 Common Types of Raising and Lowering Desk to Know

|Nov 4, 2022
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It looks like everyone is keen to get a standing desk for their work setup these days, and why wouldn't they? The health wonders of a raising and lowering desk have convinced everyone to have one of these in their office setups. It is a health and productivity booster for employees struggling with poor posture, physical pain, and similar issues in the workplace. While standing desks and the secret behind their mode of operation remain the same, they come in many types with the difference in the working mechanism.

Computer desk that raises and lowers comes as an electric, manual, simple, and advanced version of the same method. The different types impact the price, user-friendliness, and the additional features you get with a desk. Below we have listed all the office desk that raises and lowers to help you work while standing and sitting.

1. Standing Desk Converters

This type sits on top of your existing desk and can make any surface height adjustable. There are several reasons to opt for a standing desk converter instead of a full flash height adjustable desk. This is because you get it cheaper than a whole desk; it is easier to use and helps the transition from sitting to standing and working to be easier.

Some rising desk platforms are also two-tiered; hence you can use the first platform for the screen and the second for your keyboard and other accessories. They can be both manual and electric. This comparison should help you understand the differences between rising standing desks and rising desk platforms.

FeatureRising Standing DeskRising Desk Platform
DefinitionA complete desk unit with adjustable heightAn accessory that sits on an existing desk
Height AdjustmentTypically features motorized or manual height adjustmentUsually manual height adjustment
FootprintLarger footprint, designed as a standalone unitSmaller footprint, sits on top of an existing desk
Work SurfaceBuilt-in work surface with additional featuresLimited work surface, primarily for monitors and keyboards
PortabilityLess portable due to size and weightMore portable, easy to move and adjust
CostGenerally more expensiveTypically more affordable
FunctionalityFull workspace solution for sitting/standingConverts existing desk to a standing workspace

Standing Desk Converters

2. Electric Standing Desk

An electric standing desk is a single-unit desk with a motor-controlled mechanism. You can get an electric rising desk as an L-shaped rising desk. This type of desk that raises and lowers can range from single motor to triple motor operation depending on the length and width of the desk and the load capacity required by a desk.

A rising office desk differs in that it has a sizable work area with room for your computer and other accessories. 

This table should help clarify the differences between manual and electric rising standing desks.

FeatureManual Rising Standing DeskElectric Rising Standing Desk
Adjustment MechanismManual adjustment (lever, hand crank)Electric motors for height adjustment
Ease of UseRequires physical effort to adjust heightSimple button press for height adjustment
Speed of AdjustmentSlower, depending on manual effortQuick and effortless adjustment
Price RangeGenerally more affordableTypically more expensive
Weight CapacityVaries by model, usually similarGenerally similar, but check specific specs
PortabilityOften lighter and easier to moveHeavier due to electric components
FeaturesBasic functionality, fewer featuresMay include programmable settings and memory options

Electric Standing Desk

3. L-shaped Standing Desk

This is another type of raising and lowering desks. An L-shaped rising desk can come with height adjustment or as a fixed desk. They are most beneficial for large monitor and heavy-weight capacity work setups. They are also ideal for gamers, who have a lot of office accessories and a multiple monitor setup to work with.

L-shaped Standing Desk - raising and lowering desk

SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

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DimensionsFull: 77”L x 64”W x 1”H
Large Top: 77”L x 29”W x 1”H
Small Top: 29”L x 35”W x 1”H
Shipping Dimensions84"L x 35"W x 5"H x 95 lbs
ColorsWhite, Black, Walnut
MaterialWarp-proof MDF wood
 
Motor typeTriple
Lifting speed2.3”/sec
Lifting capacity400 lbs
Noise level50 dB
Height range (without top)28.4" - 47"
Height range (with top)29.4" - 48"
Length range42” - 71”
Frame foot width27.5"
MaterialSPCC steel
ColorsWhite/ Black
Outlet voltage110-240V
Anti - collisionYes
Shipping DimensionsBox 1: 54"L x 12"W x 8"H x 51 lbs
Box 2: 35"L x 21"W x 9"H x 55 lbs
 
ProsCons
The L-shaped design offers extensive room for monitors, laptops, and other work essentials.Larger size and weight may complicate the assembly process.
Triple motor system with a 400 lbs lifting capacity ensures strong, reliable operation.
 
Operates at a low noise level of 50 dB, keeping your workspace serene.
Easily switch the desk’s orientation to fit any workspace layout.
SPCC steel frame with BIFMA certification provides long-lasting stability.
Designed for quick assembly in just 15-30 minutes.
Premium finish from White, Black, or Walnut, with warp-proof MDF wood tops.

4. Mobile Height Adjustable Desks

Who says mobility has to be vertical only when it comes to a working setup? Mobile height-adjustable desks bring the best of both worlds by providing an electric or manual height-adjustable platform along with a desk instilled with rolling wheels. These desks can move on the wheels and also be locked with the help of lockable wheel casters. The desks are suitable for fast workplaces like hospitals or industries involving movement.

Computer Workstations

5. Compact Height Adjustable Desk

As the name suggests, a compact desk is designed to work for compact work setups. These desks facilitate building a working setup in a short space. You can get a compact desk to set up your workstation in a bedroom or a shared space. Compact height adjustable desks are also useful for office spaces where there are many workstations, and you need to accommodate workers around the table.

Compact Height Adjustable Desk

6. Fixed Height Standing Desks

A fixed standing desk is built to a certain ergonomic desk height, just like it sounds. It cannot be adjusted for different heights of sitting or working. These are effective in a few particular circumstances.

First, you can pair a fixed standing desk with a desk treadmill or stationary cycle configuration.

Additionally, a lot of mobile desks are fixed. These are excellent for collaborative work environments, doctor's offices, and other places where moving around and interacting with clients or patients is necessary.

Fixed Height Standing Desks

7. Manual Rising Desk

Manual crank desks, an alternative to electric workstations, may also be adjusted in height by hand cranking. Due to two factors, a crank-style workstation is frequently rejected. First, compared to an electric desk, it takes far too much effort to adjust your desk, and you also don't get the exact height. However, you also benefit from an increased calorie burn while working.

These manual rising desks are easy to use. To raise or lower the desk, all you need to do is turn the crank. The trick is to locate one with a sturdy and smooth hand crank. Additionally, ensure the crank can be folded up beneath the desk and out of the way.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. For instance, manual crank desks require more effort to adjust compared to electric desks, and it can be challenging to achieve the exact desired height. Additionally, frequent cranking can be tedious and may lead to laziness, causing users to remain seated for extended periods.

To overcome these challenges, it's essential to find a manual crank desk with a sturdy and smooth hand crank that can be folded up beneath the desk when not in use. Some popular options include the best manual standing desk and crank standing desknmodels.

Despite their benefits, manual crank desks can also come with some common issues, such as getting manual standing desk stuck in up position. Moreover, there are several disadvantages of hand crank desk to consider before making a purchase.

Manual Crank Standing Desk - raising and lowering desk

8. Pneumatic Standing Desk

A self-rising desk, also known as a pneumatic standing desk, automatically adjusts its height through a gas-lift mechanism, allowing users to change the height with minimal effort.

As the name suggests, these desks work with pneumatic assistance to raise and lower the work surface. These desks are pneumatic cylinder-powered. It has a working mechanism based on a spring filled with air. The air inside the chamber is compressed. As a result, causing a lifting motion that causes the work surface to rise.

The air in the chamber expands as the piston is pulled further out, allowing the work surface to decrease. Engineers determine the pneumatic cylinder's chamber size based on the weight that needs to be moved. It is possible to build the cylinder so that it closes and opens at precise, constant speeds. The biggest benefit of pneumatic controlled desks is the noiselessness and smooth operation. These desks also save electricity costs, which adds to the expense of using an electric adjustable desk, making it worth considering the benefits of pneumatic vs electric standing desk options.

Pneumatic Standing Desk

FAQs

What is a rising and lowering desk?

A rising and lowering desk, often referred to as a height-adjustable desk, allows users to change the height of the work surface, enabling a seamless transition between sitting and standing positions to promote better posture and health.

How to lower a standing desk?

To lower a standing desk, locate the control switch or lever, which may be manual or electric. For electric desks, press the down button until the desk reaches your desired height. For manual desks, adjust the height using the lever or hand crank until it is at the desired position.

How to raise a standing desk?

To raise a standing desk, find the control switch or lever. For electric desks, press the up button until the desk reaches the desired height. For manual desks, use the lever or hand crank to adjust the height accordingly.

What are desks that can be raised and lowered?

Desks that can be raised and lowered are height-adjustable desks designed to accommodate both sitting and standing positions. They come in various forms, including electric, manual, or pneumatic models, and can be customized for different users and preferences.

What height ranges are available for rising standing desks?

Rising standing desks typically have adjustable height ranges that vary by model. Generally, they range from about 24 inches to 50 inches (61 cm to 127 cm) to accommodate different user heights. Some desks may offer a wider range to suit taller or shorter individuals.

What is a rising desk?

A rising desk is a height-adjustable desk that can be raised or lowered to accommodate different working styles, promoting better ergonomics and comfort during work hours.

What are rising desk legs?

Rising desk legs are adjustable legs that allow a desk to be raised or lowered. These legs can be manual or electric, providing flexibility for various desk configurations and user preferences.

Can a rising office desk accommodate multiple monitors?

Yes, a rising office desk can accommodate multiple monitors, provided it has a sufficient work surface area and weight capacity. It's essential to ensure that the desk is stable enough to support the monitors without tipping over. Using monitor arms or dual monitor stands can help free up desk space and improve ergonomics.

What types of accessories work well with a rising computer desk?

  • Monitor Arms: To elevate monitors to eye level and free up desk space.
  • Keyboard Trays: For ergonomic positioning of keyboards and mice.
  • Cable Management Solutions: To organize and conceal wires and cables for a cleaner workspace.
  • Desk Mats: To protect the desk surface and provide a comfortable writing or mouse surface.
  • Under-Desk Storage: To maximize space and keep essential items within reach.
  • Task Lighting: To provide adequate lighting without taking up desk space.
  • Office Footrests: To enhance comfort while sitting or standing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rising popularity of standing desks reflects a growing awareness of their benefits for health and productivity in the workplace. With various options available, including standing desk converters, electric models, L-shaped designs, and more, there's a suitable solution for every work environment and personal preference. Whether you're looking to alleviate discomfort caused by poor posture or simply want to enhance your overall workspace experience, investing in a height-adjustable desk can be a game-changer.

By providing flexibility in your work setup, these desks cater to the unique needs of users, allowing for a seamless transition between sitting and standing. As you consider your options, take the time to evaluate your specific needs and preferences, ensuring you choose the right desk that fits your lifestyle and enhances your work efficiency. Embrace the opportunity to improve your workspace and enjoy the numerous advantages that a raising and lowering desk can offer.

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