Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand as more and more people recognise the health benefits of standing while working. Not only do they help prevent back pain, but they can also help improve your posture, energy levels, and productivity.
So, in this article, I evaluate the six best standing desks available in New Zealand and provide a buying guide with an FAQ section to help you find the best one for your unique needs. Let's get to it.
Our Top Picks
Here are our top three standing desk picks in New Zealand:
Stand Desk Pro Sit-Stand Desk
Best overall standing desk with 120 kg weight capacity, cable management, integrated wireless charger, and a natural, eco-friendly look and feel.
Agile 2-Column Desk
Best mid-range standing desk with a 120 kg dynamic weight lifting capacity, space-saving design, and two-column design to share the desk simultaneously.
Locktek Eco Office Desk
Best cheap standing desk with a 70 kg weight capacity, sturdy steel frame, adjustable height from 71 to 121 cm, and an anti-collision system.
Top Standing Desks Shipped From New Zealand
Here is my review and comparison of the best standing desks shipped from New Zealand. So far, I have only been able to get hands-on experience reviewing the Stand Desk Pro, as it is available in Australia. However, I have carefully researched and evaluated the other products here, and based on my experience, there are still some great options listed below.
1. Stand Desk Pro
Best Overall Standing Desk
The Stand Desk Pro Bamboo standing desk has an environmentally friendly bamboo top that is strong enough to support up to 120 kg of weight. Its height is adjustable between 64 and 127 cm. The desk app allows you to control the height and customise sit-stand schedules for your working hours.
The Stand Desk's bamboo top provides a natural, eco-friendly look and feel. The base is made of powder-coated steel for extra durability. The desk has a standard cable management tray, which is convenient for keeping cables out of sight. You can get rid of the device charging cable, as the Stand Desk Pro has an integrated wireless charger in a set position.
The bamboo standing desk is available in two colour options: natural bamboo and mid-brown bamboo. The frame is available in white, black, and grey. You get three desktop sizes: 120 x 70 cm, 150 x 80 cm, and 180 x 80 cm. Stand Desk offers a 10-year warranty and a 100-day free trial period.
Pros
- Dual motor system
- Real and environment-friendly wood desktops
- Tallest upper height limit of 127 cm
- Built-in anti-collision feature
- Smart app integration
- Standard wireless charger
Cons
- Weight capacity of 120 kg
2. Agile Electric 2-Column
Best Mid-Range Standing Desk
The Agile Electric 2-column Standing Desk is a good-quality, affordable standing desk. The two-column means you can adjust one part of the electric desk while the other remains the same. This is helpful if you share the desk with your partner or coworker. Its height adjusts between 68 and 113 cm. An upper limit of 113 cm suggests this desk is unsuitable for taller individuals. I recommend it for medium-sized individuals.
Agile's Electric 2-column Standing Desk features a sturdy powder-coated steel frame and commercial-grade melamine desktop, making it perfect for work and leisure activities. The optional wire management tray keeps cords neatly tucked away, and the durable construction and scratch-resistant finish ensure it is long-lasting. You can also customise the look of your workspace with the available colour options for the tabletop.
The sit-stand desk is easy to assemble and set up. Its dynamic weight-lifting capacity is 120 kg, less than the 158 kg and 160 kg weight capacities of Jarvis and Uplift Desks. Still, its sturdy construction, 15-year warranty, and space-saving design make it ideal for most home workstations.
Pros
- 4 memory height presets
- E1 grade desktop board with PVC edges
- Digital height readout display panel
- 15 years warranty
Cons
- No trial period
- Single motor adjustment system
- Not for taller folks
3. Locktek Ergonomic Eco Office Standing Desk
Best Cheap Standing Desk
The Locktek Standing Desk improves your posture and comfort at the right balance of price and functionality. It has a sturdy steel frame for stability and durability and an eco-friendly MDF material desktop with a scratch- and stain-resistant high laminate finish. The frame is available in white and black, while the tabletop is available in white and honey oak.
Locktek is adjustable from 71 to 121 cm, making it less suitable for people of average height. It has an optional storage drawer for office supplies and accessories, such as a monitor riser and an anti-fatigue mat. For safety, it also features an anti-collision system.
The sit-stand desk is an excellent choice if you want a well-built standing desk. It is sturdy and adjustable, and the eco-friendly materials make it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious users.
Pros
- Quiet transitions
- Anti-collision system
- Powder-coated scratch-resistant surfaces
- 3 desktop sizes
Cons
- 2 years warranty
- Single motor height adjustment
- 70 kg load capacity
Best USA Imports
All the desks in this section are available for import from the USA, meaning you pay a premium and higher shipping costs than the above options. If you're not keen on the options above, you may also ship from Australia. Here are the best standing desks available to Australians.
4. Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk
Best Overall USA Import
The Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk is constructed with strong, reliable, and beautiful sustainable wood. The wood is free from pesticides, as it is grown in sustainable forests. The desk operates silently and smoothly throughout its range. It has a touch control to raise and lower it. Press the front of the button to lower it, and press the underside to raise it.
You can customise the Fully Jarvis with different finishes, leg colours, and accessories. The height-adjustable frames are available in black or white, and height adjustments range from 76 to 125 cm. Jarvis also supports a weight of up to 158 kg, 88 kg more than the Flexispot EC1 Desk. It has two size options, 76 x 61 cm and 183 x 76 cm, and a built-in cable management system.
The bamboo sit-stand desk has adjustable feet to ensure your desk remains level on uneven floors. Its accessories include drawers, cable-management trays, hooks, and bottle openers. On purchase, you get a 15-year warranty on the desk frame and a 5-year warranty on the desktop surface.
Pros
- 4 LED programmable presets
- Stylish and sustainable design
- 158 kg weight capacity
- 15-year warranty
Cons
- Unclear assembly
- Desk is not scratch-resistant
5. Uplift V2
Most Customisable Standing Desk
The Uplift Standing Desk has a solid steel frame and different types of worktops with a spacious work area. It has adjustable height settings and a digital controller to customise the desk's height. The desktops are made from real or reclaimed wood and are available in five sizes, from 106 x 76 cm to 203 x 76 cm. There are multiple colour options available in different variants.
The standing desk is challenging to assemble, but you can do it yourself or hire the Uplift team for $45 per hour. The desk height is adjustable from 64 to 124 cm, and the large desktop gives you plenty of room. Thanks to its steel frame and wide base, Uplift V2 is incredibly stable. You also get different grommets, five types of keypads, and free accessories.
Uplift V2 has a 15-year warranty, which you can extend to 25 years for $179. The standing desk is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an ergonomic and customisable standing desk solution.
Pros
- Bluetooth adapter
- Desk configuration options
- 15-year default and 25-year extended warranty
- 30-day risk-free trial period
- Wireless foot switch
- Lockable casters
Cons
- Motor strain begins at 110 kg
- Hyper-sensitive anti-collision can be annoying
- Difficult assembly
6. Flexispot E7
Best for Wireless Charging
The Flexispot E7 Standing Desk offers many customisation options, including the shape and size of the frame and the shape, size, and material of the desktop. Its height is adjustable from 57 to 123 cm. For different sizes, you can choose a C-shaped or T-shaped frame. The LCD keypad also has practical functionalities, such as four memory presets, a child-lock system, and an integrated wireless charger, for an improved user experience.
E7 is made of natural bamboo wood. Its construction includes a three-stage frame that can support up to 161 kg. The desktops are also available in other wood options, including fiberboard, chipboard, and cherrywood, and in widths from 48 to 80 inches. Flexispot includes an embedded cable management tray underneath the desktop to keep your workspace clutter-free.
For its dual motors, which provide smooth and stable height adjustment, improving overall usability, simple controller for quick and easy adjustment, sturdy construction, and adjustable height, the Flexispot E7 Bamboo Standing Desk is an excellent and sustainable desk option. You get a 15-year warranty on its frame, motor, and electronics on purchase.
Pros
- 4-memory presets
- Integrated wireless charger
- 161 kg lifting capacity
- Child-lock system
Cons
- No trial period offered
- Difficult assembly
What Are the Benefits of Using a Standing Desk?
Standing Desks offer several benefits. They help reduce back pain by encouraging proper posture and strengthening core muscles. Standing also improves circulation, increasing blood flow throughout the body and keeping you alert and focused on the task.
Using a standing desk also helps you burn more calories than sitting down. According to a study by the Mayo Clinic, standing for six hours per day can burn an extra 54 calories daily. So, if you’re looking to get into shape, a standing desk might help you on your way.
Lastly, standing desks can help reduce stress and improve overall mood. When you stand at your desk, you allow yourself to move around more freely, which reduces stress and boosts morale.
How to Choose the Best Standing Desk?
Here's everything you need to consider before buying a standing desk. Similarly, if you have more than one product in your shortlist from above, use the buying guide below to narrow it down.
#1. Consider your working area
The first step in choosing a standing desk is to evaluate your working area. Measure your space and note the dimensions of the standing desks you are considering. Remember that you'll need enough room for the desk and any accessories or equipment you use.
Some standing desks come with anti-fatigue mats, but accessories like balance boards and under-desk treadmills can help you get the most out of your standing desk. The latter, for example, takes up space, especially when not foldable.
Darren Sherwood
#2. Check the desk material and design
The second most important consideration is the material of the desk. Desks are typically made from wood, metal, or plastic. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, so you must consider the type of material you want before purchasing.
It's also essential to find a standing desk that is aesthetically pleasing and complements the look and feel of your workspace. Look for desks with a clean, modern design and minimal hardware.
#3. Compare the weight capacity of the desk
Make sure the desk you choose can hold the weight of your equipment and adjust to the right height for you. Some desks are designed to support heavier loads than others. Typically, most desks can hold between 50 - 120 kg, but some are designed to support more than 150 kg.
#4. Check for ergonomics
Ergonomics plays a crucial role in how comfortable your standing desk will be. So, whether buying an office chair or a standing desk, ensure it is adjustable to suit your ideal comfort level. One functionality of a standing desk is the adjustment mechanism, which allows you to change its height. Most standing desks are either manual or electric.
Manual desks require you to physically adjust the height using a crank or lever, while electric desks use an electronic motor to raise and lower the desk. If you're concerned about the height of your new standing desk, use our standing desk height calculator to find the ideal range.
Before purchasing, consider which adjustment mechanism best suits your needs. You must find a comfortable range so that you can work efficiently without straining your back or neck.
Darren Sherwood
#5. Look for advanced features
Many standing desks on the market today have advanced features that enhance productivity. These features include an integrated monitor mount, cable management, and lockable wheels, which allow you to customise your desk for an ergonomic workspace.
Suppose you intend to alternate between standing and sitting at your desk regularly. In that case, we recommend combining it with a sit-stand or draft chair that allows you to do so simultaneously.
#6. Consider your budget
Standing desks are available at various prices, from basic manual to advanced electric models. Determine your budget and look for a desk within your price range. Investing in a high-quality standing desk can save you money in the long run by reducing the risk of health problems associated with prolonged sitting.
#7. Consider the warranty
Before purchasing, check the manufacturer's warranty and customer service options. Look for a desk with a warranty of at least 3-5 years and a company that offers good customer service.
Check the company's website for details on its return policy, warranty terms, and customer service availability. That way, if anything goes wrong with your desk, you can be sure you have the protection and help you need.
The Impact of Standing Desks on Health and Well-being
Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular in both the home and office. They can provide a range of benefits that go beyond comfort. Standing allows you to keep your back and spine healthy and natural.
Standing helps reduce stress and fatigue due to increased blood circulation, which helps keep your energy levels up throughout the day. The change in posture encourages better breathing to clear your head and relax your mind. Plus, when you stand, your brain gets more oxygen and nutrients, allowing you to think more clearly and concentrate better.
Standing desks also encourages movement, which helps to keep you alert and focused on the task at hand.
Darren Sherwood
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about standing desks in New Zealand.
Can I use my existing chair with a standing desk?
Yes, you can use your existing chair with a standing desk. However, it is essential to remember that your chair may not provide the same level of support as a dedicated ergonomic chair designed for standing desk use. Some factors to consider include whether your chair offers adjustable lumbar and armrests, seat height, and tilt angles. If your current chair does not provide these features, it is unsuitable for standing desk use.
How often should I stand while using a standing desk?
Alternate between sitting and standing every 30-60 minutes, and stand for at least 15-20 minutes every hour. Take regular breaks throughout the day and listen to your body. Standing too long can cause fatigue and strain, so monitor how often you stand.
A great way to do this is to set an alarm that reminds you to switch from sitting to standing every hour or two. Fortunately, some standing desks have a built-in reminder functionality.
Darren Sherwood
Say Goodbye to Back Pain
Standing desks allow you to stay more comfortable and supported while working. Whether you're looking for an affordable option or something with more features, we've got you covered.
With the right standing desk, you can improve your posture, reduce fatigue, improve your focus, reduce your chances of developing back pain, and even help you burn some extra calories. So consider investing in a standing desk today to stay healthy and productive.
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