Try These 12 Best Varidesk Alternatives

Varidesks are the most well known brand when it comes to standing desk solutions.

However, they can be pricey – the good news is that there are a ton of Varidesk Alternatives that offer more reasonable prices without sacrificing much quality.

There are so many benefits to standing desks, and according to this Huffington Post article, standing while working can lead to a reduction in several potentially life threatening diseases and situations.

It should be a no-brainer to incorporate standing into your regular work day.

But how do you do that when Varidesks are just so darn expensive?

Meet the Varidesk alternatives.

In this review post, we divided up three different categories: Desktop converters, cheap and portable models, and stand-alone computer work stations.

The desktop models sit right on top of your desk and can be adjusted to sitting or standing settings.

Stand-alone computer work stations on the other hand are an entire desk replacement and the height can be adjusted to sitting or standing positions.

On top of the in depth review and ratings of the three different categories, this blog post also contains an overview of the best practices on how to use these standing desks.

Best Desktop Varidesk Alternatives 

FlexiSpot 35″ Standing Desk Converter

FlexiSpot M2B Standing Desk Converter - 35 Inch wide platform Height Adjustable Stand up Desk Riser with Removable Keyboard Tray (Medium size Black)
Rating: 4.7

The Flexispot is one of the best Varidesk Alternatives because it’s similar quality and is less expensive than some of the Varidesk standing desk products.

This standing desk is 35 inches, has a straight up and down movement, and requires minimum space to set up. It comes in both black and white color options and is made from wood with a solid steel frame.

Additionally, it has a separate keyboard flip out desk and can hold two monitors.

The FlexiSpot is one of the most comparable models to Varidesk because of its feature rich add-ons.

Here are some additional reasons why this is an excellent choice for a standing desk:

  • Gas spring hovering system that makes raising and lowering the desk a breeze
  • Choose from 12 different ergonomically designed height positions
  • Supports up to 35 lbs and has undergone numerous weight and capability tests
  • Sleek design with a large surface area that can hold multiple devices
  • Keyboard tray is removable in case you don’t need to use it
  • Comes in many different sizes to fit your desk space

–> View more of the best standing desks models from FlexiSpot

VIVO Height Adjustable Standing Desk

VIVO Black Height Adjustable 32 inch Standing Desk Converter, Sit Stand Dual Monitor and Laptop Riser Workstation, DESK-V000K

Rating: 4.6

The VIVO Height Adjustable standing desk is another one of the most worthy Varidesk alternatives.

Plus, it comes at an even more affordable price than the FlexiSpot.

The big difference between this standing desk and the FlexiSpot is the shape of the main monitor desk area and the material. The VIVO desk is constructed with a steel frame and polymer desk material as opposed to wood.

This converter can also fit two monitors, however it might be awkward to fit some laptops on it.

Be sure to measure your laptop to see if it will meet the specs of the VIVO standing desk.

The VIVO comes along with the following additional qualities:

  • Dual gas risers to make the sit-to-stand transition as smooth as possible
  • Stylish, contemporary office desk design
  • Lower tray that holds keyboard and mouse
  • Holds 37.5 lbs total and weighs just over 55 pounds

Related: If you’re comparing the first two choices, you can see how the VIVO matches up against FlexiSpot in this post

Halter ED-258 Elevating Desktop

Halter Height Adjustable Stand Up Desk Pre-Assembled Sit or Stand Workstation, Elevating Desktop Riser, 36 Inches (Cherry)
Rating: 4.6

The Halter ED-258 comes pre assembled and requires minimal effort to start standing and working. Once it ships to your door, plop it on your desk and get to standing.

Additionally, this is one of the only reputable Varidesk alternatives that comes in a brown woodgrain design.

The handles on the sides of the top part are how you adjust the height – simply squeeze them both and you can lock in the desk height at any level.

The lower level keyboard tray is where you can rest your keyboard at all times – it raises and lowers with the top level computer desk.

This converter comes along with the additional qualities:

  • Weighs about 47 lbs and has a 44 pound weight capacity
  • Ships fully assembled. Minimal effort to get to standing and working
  • Lock in the desk at any height – no preset levels
  • Solid construction making sit-to-stand transition smooth and easy

Related: Another model to have a look at is the InMovement Elevate D2. You can read this post to compare InMovement to Varidesk.

X-Elite Pro Height Adjustable Desk Converter

Stand Steady X-Elite Pro Standing Desk Converter | Instantly Convert Any Desk into a Stand Up Desk | Easy Lift Height Adjustable Standing Desk | No Assembly Required (28 x 20 / Black)
Rating: 4.6

The X Elite Pro is the more simple and minimalist standing desk among the options in this list.

This standing desk is one flat surface that holds your keyboard and monitor. Although it’s slim and attractive, be wary that it has less surface area than some of the other options on this list.

That means you should definitely measure your computer/laptop gear before purchasing this one.

While this is an excellent standing desk option, you’ll only be able to fit one, maybe small two monitors on here with a keyboard. Or just a laptop depending on the measurements of your equipment.

  • Comes fully assembled
  • Raises 7-16 inches
  • Unique raising system with wheel base and X design
  • Minimal design that doesn’t look like a big bulky standing desk
  • 20 lb max load; unit weighs just around 27 pounds

Portable Adjustable Aluminum Laptop Stand

Executive Office Solutions Portable Adjustable Aluminum Laptop Desk/Stand/Table Vented w/CPU Fans Mouse Pad Side Mount-Notebook-MacBook-Light Weight Ergonomic TV Bed Lap Tray Stand Up/Sitting-Black
Rating: 4.3

The Executive Office Solutions portable standing desk is one if the top rated lightweight alternatives to a conventional desk converter like the Varidesk. Although it can only fit a single laptop and a mouse, this standing desk is perfect for a tight work space.

Additionally, this unit can be used as a portable desk on the floor, a bean bag, a couch, etc. It’s simple, elegant and utilitarian.

Simply put, this standing desk has a specific purpose with no frills and is built with quality.

The Executive Office Solutions standing desk comes standard with the following qualities:

  • Built with solid aluminum
  • Can be locked in any position for maximum customizability
  • Built in USB powered cooling fans so your laptop won’t overheat
  • Small connected tray for mousepad and mouse
  • Compact, portable and easy to store and keep at your desk; especially with limited desk space

Avantree Adjustable Laptop Table, Portable Standing Bed Desk

Neetto Height Adjustable Laptop Bed Table, Portable Lap Desk with Foldable Legs, Breakfast Tray for Eating, Notebook Computer Stand for Reading Writing on Bed Couch Sofa Floor - Honeydew

Rating: 4.8

The Avantree Adjustable Laptop Table is a highly versatile, cost effective Varidesk alternative.

It’s designed with simplicity and bare functionality at top of mind. Additionally, it’s one of the more sturdy cheap standing desk options underneath this category.

This standing desk comes in two different color choices: wood grain and white/silver.

It can fold flat, is convenient for storage, and the desk can be adjusted to virtually any angle. When it comes to flexibility and utility, this a good option to look at.

The Avantree comes along with the following features:

  • Lightweight and portable: only 3.5-6 lbs depending on attachments
  • Tested to hold more than 50 pounds of weight
  • Adjustable desktop height and table angle
  • Versatile and can be used for multiple purposes – not just a standing desk

 

40″ Black Shelves Mobile Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation

40" Black Shelves Mobile Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation
Rating: 4.5

The Mobile Ergonomic Stand Up Desk Computer Work Station made by the Stand Up Desk Store is an excellent and wallet-friendly alternative to some of the Varidesk products.

This particular standing desk is a true standing desk – meaning it doesn’t sit on top of your desk. It can be adjusted to the height of just about any person and has plenty of space for laptops, phones, monitors and your beloved and precious cup of coffee.

Best of all, it’s mobile.

You can bring this standing desk unit into any space with ease and get some work done while standing.

Here are the highlighted features of this standing desk:

  • Height of both upper and lower desk adjust at 1 inch increments
  • Mounted on locking wheel casters; this desk is mobile when you want it to be
  • Adjustable to just about every height of person
  • Ample space for 1-2 monitors, laptop, etc.

Related: Take a look at more of our favorite mobile standing desks with wheels.

60″ Crank Adjustable Height Standing Desk

60" Crank Adjustable Height Standing Desk (Black Frame/Teak Top)
Rating: 4.6

Yet another standing desk pick from the Stand Up Desk Store. Seeing a pattern?

This company makes high quality standing desks without the brand name (Varidesk) attached to it. If you’re looking for a standing desk option with tons of desktop space, look no further.

The 60 inch Crank Adjustable Height Standing Desk has a TON of desktop space; plus, it looks great and is subtle both in stand up or sit down mode.

Additionally, it’s got locking wheels so this adjustable desk is easily moveable.

One thing to be wary of with this desk is that the monitor sits at the same level as the keyboard. You may be looking down at your screen as opposed to straight ahead.

Here are some of the additional features that come along with this standing desk choice:

  • Adjustable height from 29.25 inches up to just over 45 inches tall
  • Sits on lockable wheels so this baby can move
  • Woodgrain table top with solid steel frame
  • Giant surface area of 60 inches
  • Great for both sitting and standing

Mount-It! Mobile Stand Up Desk

Mount-It! Mobile Standing Desk/Height Adjustable Stand Up Computer Work Station | Rolling Presentation Cart with 27.5 Inch Wide Platform, Locking Wheels

Rating: 4.4

The Mount-It Mobile Stand Up Desk is perfect for those who want a standing desk option in addition to a traditional sitting workstation.

It’s lightweight, has a keyboard tray and there’s an upgraded model with a monitor mount option. Plus, this is the least expensive of the true standing desk Varidesk alternatives on this list.

Some say it can be a little flimsy if you overload it with too much weight – however, if you just have a laptop, monitor and keyboard, you’ll be just fine.

Here are all of the highlighted qualities of the Mount-It! Stand Up Desk:

  • Cost effective stand up desk – perfect add-on to an office or flexible work space
  • Four wheels make it easily moveable
  • Keyboard tray and space for a laptop and small monitor
  • Metal frame with polymer composite material

Why Use a Standing Desk?

You likely have seen some around different office spaces, but have you ever wondered why people use them? If you’re like most curious sitters out there, chances are you have.

There are a couple main reasons why adjustable standing desks are popular amongst office workers in today’s busy world.

Plus, if you’re tired of sitting or don’t have a decent ergonomic kneeling chair to help your posture, these different alternatives to the traditional Varidesk will help with your health.

Here are the main reasons as to why standing desks can help out with your overall well-being:

Helps Improve Posture

Standing desks, when used correctly, can help improve posture and reduce lingering back pain. Standing naturally burns more calories and uses more muscle groups as opposed to sitting. That being said, you can injure yourself when not using a standing desk properly. But not to worry, we have a guide at the end of this post that outlines how to use a standing desk the right way.

Increases Core and Leg Strength

As mentioned before, standing uses more muscle groups than sitting. Coincidentally, you will strengthen all of the muscles used to stand if you stand more than you sit.

Enhanced Blood Circulation + Increased Energy

When humans sit for a prolonged period of time, blood tends to pool up in the “rump” area. When this happens, blood flow is restricted and tiredness ensues. Ever wonder why you get the midday slump? The big lunch might not be the only culprit. Poor circulation can also cause fatigue. Que the standing desk solution: standing for at least a few hours more a day can help increase blood flow which in turn could lead to more energy throughout the day.

Burn More Calories Using a Varidesk Alternative

Standing 3-5 hours more a day can help the body burn upwards of 750 extra calories over a 5 day period according to this BBC article. That’s a lot of calories burnt!

750 calories is equal to running 4 miles. And it’s all burnt of by standing more throughout the day.

Be wary though, too much standing at a standing desk can cause discomfort if you’re not a big stander/walker as it is.

If you’re just getting started with standing, don’t push yourself – try it for a few hours here and there until you work up more standing endurance.

Best Practices 

Stand Up Straight With Your Monitor at Eye Level

There is absolutely a right and wrong way to stand. Here’s an example of the wrong way to stand while at a stand up desk:

slouch

And here’s the right way:

straight

The key to standing correctly is having your monitor parallel to your natural eye level while standing straight up. If you don’t have a standing desk with an elevated monitor stand, you can easily stack up some books  to raise the height of your monitor.

Hunching over can have terrible side effects to your posture; it’s absolutely critical that when at a standing desk, you are standing up straight with your monitor parallel to your line of sight.

You can even try this Back Posture Corrector to help better your posture while standing at your brand new standing desk.

What You’re Standing On Matters

Most offices and office work spaces are in settings with rather hard standing surfaces.

Standing on a solid surface like concrete, hardwood, or even that typical office carpet can cause damage to your feet and knees. Plus, it can get rather uncomfortable standing on a hard surface for an extended period of time.

What if I told you that you could stand for hours and remain happy and comfortable for the duration of your standing sesh? Well it’s 100% possible! You simply need to make sure you’re standing on a supportive surface that reduces the pressure on your joints.

Plus, you don’t need to break the bank in order to get a nice squishy mat to stand on while working. See below:

gorillamat

The Original 3/4″ GORILLA GRIP Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat is super affordable and it will help sooth your leg and hip joints during a long day of standing. You absolutely need one of these if you want to make standing while working part of your lifestyle.

Additional Tips to Help You Become a Standing-while-working Guru

If you’re reading this far, chances are you’ve purchased one of the above Varidesk alternatives and you’re taking this whole standing thing seriously.

Kudos to you! Now you are on the way to a more healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, we want to give you a few parting tips and pieces of advice so you can make the best out of your new standing initiative:

  1. If ever you’re in pain while standing, SIT DOWN! At least for a minute. Standing desks are meant to help you improve health, not make you uncomfortable.
  2. Standing desks are only a supplement to a more healthy lifestyle. It’s still just as important to exercise and eat properly.
  3. Start moving more! take a walk around the office building during your lunch break. Make it a challenge to see how long you can stand in one day – without injuring yourself of course.
  4. If you’re unsure about standing desks, ask your doctor if it is right for you! You can never go wrong with getting advice from a medical professional.

Happy Standing!

 

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