As an individual who works on a computer all day and suffers from chronic back problems, a standing desk is a crucial element of my office setup. I have been using one for over a decade and initially, it was considered a luxury item. However, I have recently noticed motorized standing desks similar in design to the one I purchased years ago being offered at incredibly low prices. Are these cheap desks worth investing in?
In the past ten years of working from home and covering technology topics, I have used three different desks, possibly four depending on how components are counted. I have also reviewed a model for a former employer, all from various suppliers, providing me with a solid understanding of these products. My current desk is quite large to accommodate my substantial desktop and triple-monitor display, an investment costing over $1,500. While this may seem like unnecessary boasting, I spend a significant amount of time at my desk and believe it is essential to have a quality workspace.
In comparison, the desks I previously used and passed on to others were all priced at $600 or more. However, there has been a trend in the market towards more affordable standing desks, likely due to an increase in demand during the pandemic. These desks are being produced quickly and inexpensively by overseas suppliers, leading to a surplus of budget-friendly options. The question remains: should you opt for one of these ultra-cheap motorized sitting desks or save up for a higher-end model from a reputable supplier?
Recently, I purchased a motorized standing desk from Amazon for just $100, expensed for the sake of this article. While the price has since increased to $200, similar alternatives are readily available. This desk, constructed of bamboo, is an excellent deal, and comparable options can be found at retailers like Walmart or Target.
Assembly of the desk was a straightforward process, taking approximately 45 minutes due to my experience with similar furniture. Upon unpacking, I noticed that the desk was surprisingly lightweight, with steel parts made of thin panels. Unlike my previous desks, the Innovar lacked a top frame, requiring the legs to be attached directly to the desktop. A single, exposed motor operates both legs via a hexagonal steel bolt, presenting a potential hazard for cables and wires.
Though the desk does feature a slide-out keyboard tray, it lacks useful cable routing options and relies on cheap plastic hooks for accessories. A programmable height controller with LED display is a positive feature, though manual adjustments may be necessary to ensure balance.
Overall, the Innovar desk provides a budget-friendly option for those seeking a motorized standing desk, offering some useful features despite its lightweight construction and potential design flaws.
