Standing desks are a great idea for any worker that want to get more active and improve circulation. The best models have workstations that are height adjustable to suit users of different heights and different needs. Ideally, you should be able to lift the desk up when you wish to stand and have a simple, user-friendly lift to choose the correct height. The work areas should also be large and strong enough to handle the weight of all necessary items. This means a top tier for the monitor/laptop and a lower one for a keyboard and other items. When you want to return to your seat, the desk should lower again without any trouble at all.
Comparison of 7 Varidesk Models
Varidesk has a series of sit to stand desk converters on offer that all aim to provide this strong, functional desk with plenty of user-friendly features. There are lots of similarities between the products on offer, but also some major differences that create the product’s unique selling point. Here are some short reviews to help you compare the company’s top models.
1. VARIDESK - Height-Adjustable Standing Desk - Pro Plus 30
Starting with four products in the Pro Plus range, we have a series of Varidesk risers that are simple, height-adjustable models for the office. The Pro Plus 30 is a 2 tier product. The top tier is 30 by 12.5 inches, so there is more than enough room for a laptop or desktop computer. Then there is the lower tier for the keyboard and/or mouse as required. Another key feature here is the use of the rowing lift mechanism for a more comfortable way to raise and lower the product.
There are some definite benefits to this smaller product. It may be the smallest option, but it is still functional and strong. There is a heavy base for stability and 11 height settings on that lift.
PROS
CONS
This leads to a maximum height of the top tier from the desk of 17.5 inches. There is also a weight capacity of 35pounds Users find that it is comfortable to use when standing or sitting, easy to set up, and offer plenty of room. Complaints include the inability to adjust the keyboard tier independently from the top tier. There is a minority with some concerns about the stability and wobbles – perhaps under to much weight? Overall, there is great feedback from office worker on the cost, function and build.
2. VARIDESK - Height-Adjustable Standing Desk- Pro Plus 36
This Pro Plus range is a series with some similar details in the specification and a basic adjustable design. The main difference between this 36 model and the 30 is the length of the work surface. The name 36 relates to the fact that this model has a wider top tier of 36 inches long. This extra six inches may not sound like much at first, but it can make a difference. It means that this is sold as a product with a two monitor capacity.
Otherwise, this standing desk converter retains most of the same important features that were so helpful in the Pro Plus 30. There are the same 11 height settings to help users adjust the product to the right level, the same 17.5 inch maximum height and same weight capacity.
PROS
CONS
The latter may be an issue if users do have two monitors and try to overload the work area with other items. There are some that experience shakes so those with a lot of equipment may need one of the stronger desks below. There are also the same design flaws with the second tier. Still, some reviews state that this is still an affordable option.
3. VARIDESK – Height Adjustable Standing Desk - ProPlus 36 Electric.
Again, the clue to the unique selling point of this desk converter lies in the name. In terms of the dimensions, this product is the same size as the Pro Plus 36 mentioned above. This means the same amount of workspace for two monitors and other equipment. The key difference here is that this model has an electric movement to lift the desk into the ideal height.
There are two benefits to this decision. The first is that this leads to a “near-infinite” amount of height settings. This may mean a better customized height for users. Then there is the improved ease of use for those with back issues.
PROS
CONS
In addition to this, users may also prefer this model because the frame offers more strength and a little more height. There is a higher maximum height from the desktop of 18.75 inches. There is also a stronger weight capacity of 40 pounds. This could make all the difference to those experiencing wobbles before. There are still some that question the durability of the plywood tiers. There are also some that feel that the desk is overpriced for this one alteration. This is one of the more expensive options and it is cheaper to go for a manual approach.
4. VARIDESK – Height Adjustable Standing Desk – Pro Plus 48
With this adjustable desktop model, we are back to the standard specification of the other Pro Plus models. This means the manual lift with the rowing mechanism and 11 height settings. Because it is the same lift, and the same frame, there is that original 17.75 maximum height as well. The key differences this time are that there is a wider tier of 48 inches and a weight capacity of 45 pounds. This is a significant jump from the size and strength of the earlier models.
This additional 12 inches and stronger weight allowance could make a big difference for workers with a lot of equipment. There is more room for both monitors, but also the chance to add other devices like printers or scanners that are essential to a project.
PROS
CONS
The downside here is that this 48 inch length can be a little too big for some desks. It may be too intrusive in a communal office. In fact, the base isn’t in the center of the product, which leads to some concerns in reviews about items placed on the part of the desk that sticks out.
5. VARIDESK – Height Adjustable Standing Desk for Cubicles – Cube Corner 36
The Cube Corner 36 changes the shape and dimensions of the Varidesk system to provide a product that is well suited for use in the corner of an office. The shape of the top tier of the desk works perfectly with the corner of a room to provide space for a large monitor – or perhaps two smaller items. Again there is an adjustable lift on the frame to change the height and the second tier beneath for the keyboard and mouse. There are 11 height adjustments and a weight allowance of 35lbs.
Most users are impressed with what they receive here. There is a nice weight to this ergonomic desk, that means that even though it is a little heavy to lift into place, users can feel that it is secure.
PROS
CONS
It is also easy to use and provides a great alternative solution for those that want to stand and work. The product also ships fully assembled, which helps a lot. It is not one of the cheaper corner desks, but it is affordable for a Veridesk with these features.
6. VARIDESK – Height Adjustable Standing Desk – Stand Up Desk for Dual Monitors and Cubicles – Cube Plus 40
These Cube Plus models – including the corner unit above – have a different type of lift to the other products in this guide. The Pro Plus used the manual rower lift, which doesn’t suit everyone.
The electric lift is the more simplistic, but expensive and open to malfunctions. The air lift in this series is a nice compromise with a quick, simple action from an air piston. It is designed to rise up into place – again with a choice of 11 settings – in no more than 3 seconds.
This product is a large desk riser that has a lot of potential on the right desk. It isn’t as large as unstable looking at the Pro Plus 48.
PROS
CONS
There is a sturdy, symmetrical base and a strong frame. But the 40 inch length is great for multiple pieces of equipment. There are some users that struggle with the mechanisms, but most are impressed with the stability and build of this product.
7. VARIDESK – Taller Height Adjustable Standing Desk – Exec 40
The main aim of this final Varidesk model is this height adjustable table top workstation is to provide something for the taller user. There are fewer height adjustments in this frame – at just nine. But, it is built to suit people that are over 6ft tall. This isn’t often the case with most desk risers. This 40 inch model is very similar to the option above in terms of its other dimensions and the strength and build of the product.
Unfortunately, there is a common complaint with this product. There are users that note that the levers for the manual lift are in the wrong place. They can interfere with the way that people use the keyboard and mouse.
PROS
CONS
This is a strange design flaw not mentioned in complaints about the other products in this guide. Otherwise, most users are impressed with what they get from this product. It is sturdier and far more comfortable at the higher settings than most had expected. There are also those that would agree that this is an affordable solution for struggling consumers.
Choosing a Suitable Standing Desk Converter For Your Needs
As you can see, there are many similarities and differences across the Veridesk range. There are some common benefits that are seen in a number of these top models. There is a reasonable amount of consistency in the height options in the adjustable lift and in the strength of the frame. This improves slightly the bigger the desk. However, there are some designs that aren’t quite as stable if they don’t have that symmetrical design. Another consistent feature here is the problem with the lower tier not being independently adjustable. It is best to expect these pros and cons, no matter which model or range you choose.
Then there are some of the important differences between the Pro Plus, Cube and Executive range. A major difference is the lift mechanism. If you don’t like the idea of a struggle with the mechanical life of the Pro Plus, the Air lift of the Cube might be better. Make sure to check the specification of any Veridesk product to be sure of the height adjustments, weight allowance and other dimensions before you buy. If you specifically need a taller model, look at the Executive options. Also remember that the price can vary between these models. The cost of the electric ones is often more expensive.
Take your time to compare the details of each model and make sure that the product is exactly what you need. Each of these Varidesk standing desk converters has great potential to improve the health and comfort of users – but you need to match the right specification to your office space and personal needs.
Leave a Reply