As a kid, my passion for Goldrake led me to do some pretty weird things—like shouting “Alabarda Spaziale!” and “Doppio Maglio Perforante!” while launching myself off the couch, much to the bewilderment of my closest relatives.
A less destructive alternative was spending hours drawing control panels filled with levers and buttons, which I would then glue—using copious amounts of Vinavil—to a wooden plank along with a Texas Instruments calculator with a green display. This masterpiece rested on the armrests of the battered chair in my tiny room.
That chair, covered in the typical ’80s faux leather, had a particular talent: keeping me stuck to it for entire summer afternoons. It wasn’t until the evening, when the temperature dropped, that I could finally peel myself off and go have dinner.
Spending hours in that chair fighting monsters and traveling through space was easy. What I never imagined was that sticking to a chair would become my destiny…
For those working in software development, spending endless hours sitting at a desk is just part of the job. However, this habit can take a serious toll on your health: back pain, muscle stiffness, eye strain, and loss of concentration are all common issues among programmers. In fact, during meetings, I often find myself wondering if some people were born hunched over or if they just became that way over time.
Luckily, height-adjustable desks are stepping in to save the day. These ergonomic and health-conscious desks are becoming increasingly popular, offering a smarter way for developers and remote workers to fight off bad posture, stay focused, and keep their genetic heritage intact.
What are standing desks?
Standing desks (which I’ll keep calling by their English name throughout this article, much to the dismay of language purists) or sit-stand desks are height-adjustable workstations that allow you to switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the workday.
There are several types of standing desks:
- Manual – Adjusted using a hand crank.
- Electric – Equipped with motors that raise or lower the surface at the push of a button.
- Hybrid – Combine electric adjustments with manual options.
- Dual-motor desks – More stable and powerful than single-motor models.
- Foldable standing desks – Ideal for those with limited space or looking for a temporary solution.
Benefits for developers
For those spending 8+ hours a day in front of multiple screens, using a standing desk can offer several advantages:
✔ Reduced back pain – Sitting for too long increases pressure on the spine. Alternating between sitting and standing helps improve posture and reduce discomfort.
✔ Better blood circulation – Standing up regularly helps prevent sedentary-related issues like venous stagnation.
✔ Increased energy and focus – Changing positions stimulates the mind and reduces fatigue.
✔ Improved productivity – Studies show that those using standing desks tend to be more active and responsive during work hours.
✔ Customization options – With accessories like anti-fatigue mats, adjustable monitor arms, and keyboard supports, you can tailor your workspace for maximum comfort.
✔ Lower risk of chronic diseases – Research suggests that regular use of a standing desk can reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. Of course, if you keep eating like there’s no tomorrow, no standing desk will save you.
✔ More workspace flexibility – Adjustable desks allow you to adapt your workspace to daily needs effortlessly.
Factors to consider when choosing a standing desk
If you’re thinking about buying a standing desk, here are some key features to evaluate:
- Adjustable height – It should match your height in both sitting and standing positions. Don’t just grab the first desk you see—if possible, test it out before buying to ensure proper ergonomics.
- Stability – A sturdy frame prevents wobbling while typing. Otherwise, every time you hit the Enter key with too much enthusiasm, you risk watching hundreds of dollars in monitors crash to the floor.
- Materials and build quality – Solid wood or laminated surfaces are more durable, but feel free to get creative—maybe go for materials used in Formula 1 if you want that high-performance edge.
- Motors and noise level – Electric desks should have powerful yet quiet motors. If you opt for a manual crank version, make sure you adjust it to the right height before guests arrive—nothing screams “loser” like sweating and cursing while cranking your desk into place, especially with ominous squeaks adding to the drama.
- Weight capacity – If you use multiple monitors or heavy equipment, choose a desk with adequate load capacity and ensure your monitors aren’t precariously positioned.
- Additional features – Built-in USB ports, height memory presets, touch panels, and, of course, a microwave oven for destroying hard drives when the FBI shows up at your door—the essentials.
- Adjustment speed – The faster the height adjustment, the less time you’ll waste switching positions. If your desk has an app, gather your nieces and nephews to witness the true magic of modern technology—show them who the real Harry Potter is.
- Design and space compatibility – It should blend seamlessly with your office or home environment. I personally love those setups where the desk is right in front of a window, forcing you to choose between a 32-inch monitor or a slow and painful death from toxic fumes.
The best standing desks for developers
Here are some top recommendations for those looking for a high-quality adjustable desk:
1️⃣ Fully Jarvis – One of the best on the market, with premium materials and smooth height adjustment. The bamboo top offers a unique feel every time you place a steaming cup of tea on it. 🍵
2️⃣ Autonomous SmartDesk Pro – Great value for money, ideal for home offices.
3️⃣ FlexiSpot E7 – Solid, affordable, and perfect for basic needs, but don’t expect it to hold too much weight.
4️⃣ Uplift V2 – Excellent stability and a minimalist design—perhaps too minimalist—perfect for multi-monitor setups.
5️⃣ Vari Electric Standing Desk – Easy to assemble, well-built, and spacious.
6️⃣ IKEA Idasen – A budget-friendly option with decent overall quality and reliable electric height adjustment. Be careful which model you choose, though—the high-end version has a steep price but can be adjusted via an app, making it one of those unattainable tech dreams.
7️⃣ Seville Classics AIRLIFT Pro – High weight capacity, smooth adjustment, and a tempered glass top—small but very stylish.
8️⃣ Fezibo Standing Desk – Perfect for those looking for a cheap but reliable option. However, if you go for the executive range, you might rather barricade yourself in your office and wait for a SWAT team to forcibly evict you before giving it up.
9️⃣ IKEA Relatera – A very budget-friendly option with a charming manual crank on the side. You can only justify buying this if you also get a Greta Thunberg poster and proudly advocate for the environment at all costs. 🌱
Final thoughts
Standing desks aren’t just a trendy gadget—they’re a real investment in a developer’s well-being. If you spend countless hours in front of a screen (like nearly everyone I know), switching to an ergonomic, adjustable workstation can improve your health, comfort, and productivity. Choosing the right desk means reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues and simply feeling better while working. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about quality of life. 🚀
Beyond picking the perfect desk, consider pairing it with ergonomic accessories like anti-fatigue mats, high-quality keyboards (check out my previous article), adjustable monitor stands, and ergonomic chairs. The ideal workstation allows you to seamlessly alternate between sitting and standing without unnecessary strain.
Investing in a standing desk is a smart choice for anyone looking to prioritize their health while working. And remember—even if you can still tie your shoes without groaning (or worse), don’t wait until you have back pain or postural issues to start thinking about your setup. Try one in-store, or get invited over by your favorite senior dev—you’ll never go back!
