What’s better? Electric vs. manual standing desk


Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.



When it comes to setting up a comfortable home office, standing desks have become increasingly popular. They offer a fantastic way to combat the health risks associated with prolonged sitting and can boost productivity and overall well-being. But when it comes to choosing between an electric vs. manual standing desk, which one should you opt for? Having used both types extensively, here’s my opinion and experience.

Manual standing desks

manual standing desk with crankOne of the primary advantages of a manual standing desk is its independence from electricity. This might not seem like a big deal at first glance, but it comes with several benefits:

Power outage proof

In the event of a power failure, you can still adjust your desk height and continue working. Unless you have a whole-house generator, not being able to move the desk up or down during an outage could be a pain.

Mechanical durability

Manual desks typically have fewer components that can fail. The lifting mechanism is usually a simple crank or pneumatic system, which can be more reliable in the long run.

manual standing desk with large crank, holds two monitors

Lower initial cost

Manual standing desks are often less expensive than their electric counterparts, making them a more budget-friendly option for many.

Though, when I compared the top featured manual desks vs. electric desks on Amazon, the average cost difference was just $20 dollars.

Brand Features Cost*
VIVO 60 x 24 inch, hand crank, solid one-piece table top $219.99
UNICOO 48 x 24 inches, heavy duty, crank adjustable, with headphone hook $119.99
FLEXISPOT 55 x 28 inches, crank system, whole-piece desktop $227.99
S STAND UP DESK STORE 48 inches wide, crank adjustable, heavy duty steel frame $159.00
COSTWAY 48″ x 24″, manual sit to stand, headphone hook & cable tray $179.99
Tangkula Hand crank, foldable handle, cable management tray $129.99
Mount-It! 55.1 x 23.6 inch tabletop, hand crank, 1 inch thick desktop $249.99
SIDUCAL Portable, small converter, wheels, for sitting or standing $69.99

No electrical components to break

If something does go wrong with a manual desk, it can be easier and cheaper to repair than an electric model with complex circuitry.

Environmentally friendly

Manual desks don’t consume electricity, though I’m not sure how much they actually use.

However, it’s worth noting that manual desks require more physical effort to adjust, which might be a drawback for some users, especially those with mobility issues or those who prefer to change positions frequently throughout the day.

Versatility

Some versions come on wheels and it’s easier to move into different positions around the room. This could be a big reason to go with a manual desk if that’s important to you. Those manual standing desk on wheels

manual standing desk on wheels

And larger ones.

larger stand up desk with wheels

And then finally, perhaps the OG of standing desks is the converter from Varidesk, which goes on top of existing desks.

converter stand up desk varidesk

I still use this converter desk even today and have it sitting on an electric standing desk.

Electric standing desks

While manual desks have their merits, electric standing desks offer a level of convenience that’s hard to beat.

electric standing desk with settings

Here’s why many users, myself included, find them superior:

Effortless adjustment

The ease of use encourages more frequent position changes, which I like.

Precise height settings

Many electric desks have programmable height settings. Save your preferred sitting and standing heights, ensuring perfect ergonomics every time you adjust.

Featured brands

Brand Features Cost*
SMUG 40×24 inch, ergonomic rising, white $91.45
Furmax 55×24 inches, memory preset, T-shaped metal bracket $119.99
FEZIBO 55×24 inches, home office desk, rustic brown $159.99
FLEXISPOT EN1 48 inches, whole-piece desktop, memory controller $219.99
VIVO 75×63 inch corner desk, L-shaped $449.99
ErGear 48×24 inches, memory preset, black $159.99
BANTI 55×24 inch, double drawers, storage shelf $225.62
SHW 48×24 inches, memory preset $149.87
HUANUO 48×24 inches, 4 memory settings, headphone hook $109.99
Monomi 55×28 inches, adjustable height $199.99

Consistent performance

Electric motors provide consistent lifting power, regardless of the weight on your desk. This can be particularly beneficial if you have a heavy setup with multiple monitors or other equipment.

The quick and effortless transitions can save time over the course of a day, especially when positions are switched frequently.

Quiet operation

High-quality electric desks operate quietly, causing minimal disruption in shared workspaces.

Advanced features

Some electric desks come with additional features like built-in USB charging ports, collision detection for safety, and even smartphone apps for height control and usage tracking.

standing desk with charging port

The main drawbacks of electric desks are their dependence on power, higher initial cost, and potentially more complex repairs if something goes wrong.

Size matters

If you want a larger standing desk, an electrical version makes the up and down easier as well.

larger electric standing desk

Try this one. It’s huge!

L shaped standing desk

The verdict: Electric wins, in my opinion

While both manual and electric standing desks have their place, in my experience, electric standing desks win in a direct comparison. The convenience factor simply can’t be overstated. The ability to effortlessly move up and down encourages more frequent position changes.

Moreover, the preset height options available on many electric models are great. Once you know where you want the desk for each position, there’s no more guessing and trying.

However, it’s important to note that the best choice is personal and also depends on budget and working environment. If you’re in an area with frequent power outages, or are out of outlets, or simply prefer a more mechanical, hands-on approach, a manual desk might be the better option for you.

In my experience and opinion, both options are vastly superior to a traditional sitting desk, and either choice helps be more comfortable and productive.


* Amazon pricing is dynamic and changes. The cost listed is what was shown to me at the time of publication.


Listen to my podcast

Discover more from Christoph’s Content Corner

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.