The Pros and Cons of Getting an Adjustable Height Desk

For many people, balancing desk jobs with a healthy lifestyle is like playing a never-ending game of seesaw. Wellness trends have trouble working with the nine-to-five schedule, thanks to the constant need to sit for hours on end.

Because of this, there’s been a lot of buzz around adjustable height desks, making using them one of the most significant workplace revolutions since open-office layouts. But is the standing desk the health booster and productivity powerhouse people make it out to be, or is it just another fad in the millennial’s wellness arsenal? We’re here to find out with this list of pros and cons of getting an adjustable desk.

Pros That Stand Tall

Imagine shaping your workspace to your whims. You could sit when the day feels long and then rising up to tackle those PowerPoint presentations while standing. Here’s why an adjustable height desk could make a significant mark on your nine-to-five life.

Improved Posture and Reduced Back Pain

The health benefits are compelling. Adjustable desks are known for their capability to mitigate back and neck pain while improving your posture. When you can stand or sit at the touch of a button, you’re taking a step against the sedentary lifestyle that’s been the desk user’s nemesis for years.

Increased Productivity and Focus

Many current users have realized that these high-low desks can lend a hand in boosting concentration and keeping you in the zone. The key lies in preventing the slump. You can easily avoid those midday energy crashes accompanied by a muddled mind with standing intervals.

Cons That Sit Differently

Much like any new office innovation, the pros of the adjustable height desk come with their fair share of cons you should consider. They’re not deal-breakers necessarily, but you should still keep them in mind.

Higher Cost Compared to Traditional Desks

Money talks, and investing in a height-adjustable desk might require some budget-shifting, given they’re pricier than their motionless counterparts. However, if you find a place that offers affordable office furniture, you shouldn’t have an issue finding an adjustable model that fits your budget.

Need for Additional Space

Space is a precious commodity in any home office or shared workspace. However, most people only consider the floor space needed when looking at desks. With an adjustable desk, you need to consider verticality as well. Since the desk will move up and down, you need to make sure you have room against a wall with no objects that might block the desk. In more cluttered rooms, this can be a challenge.

Potential for Distractions

When you work a job that requires intense focus, every transition is an opportunity for your attention to waver. Even though adjusting your desk may take a few moments, these precious seconds could lead down the rabbit hole of the “quick-check” email or the “one-minute” IG story you’ve been meaning to watch. These types of distractions can be good. However, if you transition your desk often, it could become more of an issue. You’ll just need to stay aware of your actions during these times.