Description
From the brand
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We created the original VariDesk to relieve a work colleague’s back pain. It went on to set an industry standard and now, trusted Vari products are in over 98% of Fortune 500 companies. Today, Vari offers flexible office furniture to help create happier, healthier workspaces.
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Cpt –
Great desk, highly recommended
In short, I love this desk. I spend a lot of time in front of the computer for work. I decided recently that sitting in front of the computer for 8-12 hours was not good for my health and my butt was getting sore. I looked at stand-up desk options. There are desks available that look like a normal square desk and has a motor for lifting the high of the desk platform. However, they’re usually pretty expensive and would replace your existing desk. Then I ran across this Varidesk option. I was a little skeptical if this would work and be stable enough. After reading other reviews of people loving it, I bit the bullet and spent the $400. A bit expensive I thought but hey, for your health, that’s cheap overall and cheaper than the full desk option. I received the Varidesk about 4 days after ordering. I thought the UPS guy was going to break his back carrying it to the front door. The package weights about 70 lbs. As noted, the installation is pretty straightforward. Getting it out of the box is the most difficult task. It comes packaged in a very sturdy cardboard package. Once you pull out of the box, remove the plastic wrap, you literarily sit on top of your desk. Put your stuff back on the desk. Done!! Ok, you do need to route your keyboard and mouse wires through the back of desk so it doesn’t pinch the wires when lowing the desk. It’s easy to route them this way (tip: route them straight back in the middle and over the top horizontal metal support under the monitors platform, use some plastic wire hangers that can stick to a surface, stick to under side of monitor platform ). I found putting the cables in the down the middle of the desk, rather than on the sides where the hinges are located, eliminated the possibility of pinching the wires when lowing the desk all the way down. This desk is very sturdy and has no problem with twin 23″ monitors. When raised/extend the Varidesk all the way to the top, it’s still sturdy. Now if you happen to hit or knock into it when raised, the monitors will shake but no enough to worry about them falling off or Varidesk falling over. NOTE: If you have a 15+ lb cat, you might want to lower the desk at night. They haven’t jumped on it yet but I’m thinking if they do when the desk is fully extended, it could knock something off. However, I think its sturdy enough that I don’t think the Varidesk would fall off the desk. I’ve had this desk for about 2 weeks. I love standing up now when I work now. I find my self moving around a lot with my feet, while stretching, bending, squatting, and even breaking out in dance when a good song comes on. One other thing I really like about standing is you can easily position yourself in front of the monitor you’re viewing. Instead of just turning your head side to side, you move your entire body in front of the monitor you’re looking. The ergonomics of this desk at great also, The curved cutout in front of the keyboard along with the mouse platforms next to it make it comfortable to lean and support yourself as you’re moving your body back and forth between monitors. The monitor platforms for the monitor are the perfect height for me. HOWEVER, I will note, as other reviews have, the desk would not be ideal for taller people without having your entire desk elevated. The Varidesk needs a stable platform to sit so I would caution setting it on something that’s not rock solid to prop it up. I’m 5′ 9″ and it’s the perfect height for me for both standing and sitting. My desk is 28″ tall. The Varidesk is very easy to raise and lower (see video on Varidesk website). The spring loading is enough that a smaller, weaker person could still raise/lower the platform. My only complaint (just so I have at least one) is you might feel you lose some flat surface real estate on your current desk. However, I quickly figured out how to rearrange my desk items to fit the new setup. I actually like it better than my previous setup now. The new setup is much more ergonomic and comfortable than my previous setup. I can standup working an entire 8 hour day and still feel great. NOTE: An anti-fatique mat is essential to stand on so make sure you order one along with the Varidesk. You’ll want it the very first day you use it. I bought the Genuine Joe mat. It has worked OK but I just ordered the CumulusPro because I want more cushion on my feet. I’ll review when I receive it. I highly recommend this desk to anyone that keeps their butt in their chairs too long and doesn’t want to spend the money or have the room for a full sized motorized lifting desk.
34 people found this helpful
Todd –
Quality desk that comes assembled and is easy to raise and lower
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I work from home and have been experiencing upper back and neck pain. My doctor suggested I get a standing desk to improve my posture. I did a fair amount of research to find the best option and decided to pay the extra money for a quality product. This desk is exactly what I was looking for. It required no assembly and shipped quickly. It’s built well and I love the size and shape. There’s plenty of room for my monitor, keyboard and mouse. I’ve decided that the mouse works better on the higher level. It’s easy to adjust smoothly and quietly. I definitely recommend this for anyone who is looking for a sturdy sitting and standing option.
4 people found this helpful
Larik SonfarLarik Sonfar –
Saves me from my daily food coma’s
I don’t always buy desks on Amazon, but when I do, I ball out. I purchased the VARIDESK Pro Plus 36 – Black and this thing is a BEAST! I have a 24 in monitor on it, a 5lb laptop, a 3 lb speaker, Corsair K70 gamer keyboard (about 3 lbs?) and some other office things on it an it lifts effortlessly. My pic only has one monitor active – I chose to do this in that I can also use my laptop as another screen and fit both facing me no problems (there is lots of space), I just rather have one monitor active.Pros: 1) it has many adjustable levels so someone like me at a height of 5’9 in is very comfortable with the assortment of settings depending on what I want to do. I think you should test one out first if you are taller than 6’1 or so as it might not be as tall as you would ideally like it to be unless your monitor(s) can increase height as well.2) effortless elevation and de-elevation, you just hold in the two foldable bars inside and lift up or down, and even with 20 lbs of things on the desk it is nearly effortless.3) it is perfect for people who have coma’s after eating or just want to stretch a bit because it takes 1 second to adjust.4) the extending keyboard area is perfect, lots of room, and there is enough room for a mousepad and mouse as well5) okay at 400$, this thing is CHEAP. I have a convertible desk at work (albiet it is electronic, you hold a button and it rises), and it is like $1500. even the ones that are manual lift, anything the size of this one would cost almost $1000. Yet this doesnt compromise on stability. You can tell the build is heavy duty and will last many years. Its also very easy to clean because of the material. I’ve spilled stuff on it and literally wipe it away immediately with a wet paper towel.6) NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED! It is good to go out of the box (a huge box).Cons:1) obviously it’s not electronic as I previously mentioned, just wanted to clarify that in case you were looking for an electric one (but it will cost you about $1500 for a good desk)2) the desk is large! It takes up a ton of room on a regular table, I have a 5 ft x 3 ft table it will take up the entire space, you can’t put anything around it, but bear in mind lots of real estate on the desk itself.3) the desk is pretty heavy as well, I think the description says this thing is 50 pounds or so, you can lift this at the gym as a dumbell but given the surface area looks like this, i highly advice you to have two people set this thing up, you do not want to drop this on you toes.I really don’t have many bad things to say about this because I am such a fan of this desk, I mean those cons are minimal in my view, for $400 or so this thing is seriously the best convertible desk on the market, build quality, durability, and ease of use. PERIOD.
21 people found this helpful
Louis Camassa –
VARIDESK Pro Plus – the easy solution for integrating a stand-up experience to your workplace.
Upon my Dr.’s suggestion (due to a hip issue), I researched how to reduce 12-13 hours of sitting per day. Due to a limited budget, and inability to perform a full-on redesign of my desk, I found VARIDESK.I was tentative investing over $400 on a “desk riser”. After looking through my options, VARIDESK was the only product to fit my needs. I wanted a solution that could be placed atop my existing desk without modification or installation. It needed to hold 2 heavy monitors and the keyboard/mouse needed to be lower than the monitors (for typing ergonomics).Despite the price tag, I decided to order VARIDESK (it fit my requirements). The unit was well packed and came with simple instructions. Unpack, then place on desk. Use small levers on left and right side to raise/lower. Doesn’t get any simpler than that!I was standing in less than 10 minutes (after shifting wires and re-configuring my desktop). The operation of the riser is awesome. Smooth as silk and lighter than expected. With the weight of my monitors and everything else on the unit, I was expecting a heavy load while raising. However, the lever mechanics helps reduce weight, making the raising and lowering easy. I’ve had a full glass of water on top while raising and lowering and not a drop has spilled!The unit is surprisingly heavy and sturdy. It’s simple construction, but gets the job done perfectly. It’s worth every penny of the $400 plus price, and I’ll be purchasing one for each of my team.Pros:- Shipped completely assembled – you pull it out of the box, and it’s ready to go- Very well built and sturdy enough to hold 2 heavy 19″ monitors, keyboard, mouse, cellphone, business card holder, glass of water, and my occasion leaning on it. It’s not wobbly and it’s roomy (could fit more stuff on it)- It’s easy to lift and lower as needed throughout the day (smooth operation)- Rubber pads on bottom of unit to protect desk- Easy to relocate (to another office or desk)- While you can’t adjust the keyboard/mouse tray, I haven’t had the need to. Worse case scenario, you could adjust the height of your monitors and raise/lower the unit for ergonomic typingCons:- The unit does go up and forward; make sure you have long enough wires for monitors and peripherals- There is noise when raising and lowering, although not overly disruptive (the springs and levers click into place)Recommendations:- Measure your current workspace (desk and cabinets) to make sure this unit will fit (width and height) fully extended and contracted- Be prepared to swap cables/wires if yours don’t reach while it’s fully extended- Order a foot pad; it will save your feet/legs!- Work your way into standing – try 30 minutes standing, 30 minutes sitting and switch on/off throughout the day increasing intervalsAll said and done, this is a great product that will last many years (probably a lifetime). The health benefits of standing far outweigh the cost of purchase and is significantly less than a full-on raising desk. Buy this for your improved health-you’ll be happy you did.
23 people found this helpful
Kairi –
Your wallet will take a hit, but your quality of life improves.
If you’ve stumbled upon the Varidesk, you’re probably looking for a good solution to pains from sitting for prolonged periods. That’s how I came upon it. But you have concerns before you commit — the thing costs $400 ($350+$50 shipping), and is heavy to ship (75lbs), so you’re reading up on this wondering if it’s worth the money and effort. It is.In researching stand-up desks I came across Varidesk because it was about the only product that didn’t require me to replace my existing desk, and because of it’s functionality of allowing seated or standing position. Do some research and you’ll find that standing for prolonged periods can be equally damaging as sitting (anyone working retail or assembly line job can attest). Not only this, but you need to allow your body to adjust to a standing desk over time. That was enough for me to rule out fixed standing desks.The other two concerns for me was whether the height would be enough and whether my current desk would accommodate it. I am 6′ and from the floor to the surface of my desk is 29.5″. Fully extended the Varidesk is perfect in terms of monitors being eye level, and arms being equal at the keyboard. The width of my desk is over 36″ so that wasn’t a problem, but the depth is what worried me. The ‘feet’ of the Varidesk is exactly 24″ (depth), and that was the exact dimension of my desk. The keyboard tray extends out 2-3″ beyond the front edge of my desk but that is okay with me. It’s ideal if you have tilt monitors, but even if you don’t, using some block or thin books to angle monitors to taste is all that is needed. Some reviews knock the Varidesk like this is a deal-breaker if it’s not exactly where they want it. Come on.The desk ships in a 75lb box (combined weight, not the box itself) with handles on the sides; the unit itself is about 50lbs and is of sturdy construction. It’s best if two people lift it on the desk as recommended, but if you are a healthy strong male, you can do this yourself. Lift with your legs, not with your back. It has some sort of smell as well, so make sure to wipe it down with water or spray before putting down monitors and such. Does it have a wobble at full extension? Slightly, but it’s expected when extending any mechanical arm but it’s not enough to be a deal-breaker.So yes I recommend this as there are no other similar cheaper alternatives (leave a comment if you find one). The bad news is that it’s $400, but the good news is that it’s always been at $400, so you don’t have to worry about missing a sale or deal. I also like that they have a 30-day guarantee with full refund including shipping. If you are on some DIY makeshift desk with books or boxes to switch your desk between standing and seated, good on you. But if you happen to come into some cash, look into getting one of these because it makes life a whole lot easier.Some final tips: remember to switch between standing and seated positions. Initially it will feel great to work in a standing position, but gradually ease into it and don’t be afraid to sit down (listen to your body). I also recommend getting the CumulusPRO Commercial Grade Anti-Fatigue Comfort Mat Area Mat 24-inch x 36-inch x 3/4-inch Black which I also bought and reviewed.
13 people found this helpful
Chicago is my boyfriend –
One major drawback for back pain sufferers
I have two herniated disks in my back and sitting all day becomes excruciating for me. Aside from PT and injections (trying to avoid surgery) I realized I needed to do something at work because I am in so much pain from sitting at my desk that I am leaving early almost every day and have been very unproductive.I did some research on the best standing desk and figured that the VARIDESK Pro Plus would be the best option for me. I liked that it could be adjusted to sitting or standing and that there was plenty of room for my things and my giant ergonomic keyboard (the perils of desk jobs are numerous).The thing is a beast and you should definitely measure your desk before you buy. Mine just fits my desk. Now that it is all set up I LOVE it! Standing gives me more energy and makes me more productive. I also can sit throughout the day to take breaks if I need to.The major drawback, and I think this is pretty major, is that in order to adjust from standing to sitting, or vice versa, you must lean over the desk, use both hands to release the levers, and pull up or down. Since back problems are the main reason most people would purchase this desk it makes NO sense to have to lift this heavy desk up or down at a 45 degree angle (the worst angle for back pain sufferers). In order to move my desk up or down I have to get someone else in my office who has no back pain to do it.A crank that you rotate with one hand would be much better. The desk is just so heavy that lifting it up and down is impossible for back pain sufferers.Overall, I do love the desk and I have no pain from standing (I move around to get my blood flowing and keep my legs from getting tired) and I would recommend it.
6 people found this helpful
Jeff Fuchs –
Love, LOVE, LOVE!!! my Varidesk Pro Plus!
I spend a lot of time at my desk and really needed something easy to raise/lower, durable, easy to use.The box arrived pretty banged up, but the packaging was awesome. Double outer wall high burst strength cardboard. Inside I found one wall on all six sides of half inch honeycomb cardboard panel, along with a couple of crush box spacers, just in case. Additional shipping bumpers taped on between moving parts and plastic bagging to protect the finish. This is not a low-cost item, and I was very happy that Varidesk took the time and expense to protect my investment. I’m kind of a shipping geek, and appreciate companies who put in the effort to get this right.I heaved this baby up on my desk (seems like it weighs as much as my three year old daughter, or a small Labrador Retriever) and loaded it up with my Surface Pro 3 and keyboard, a big 24″ external monitor, Bluetooth mouse, To-Do list, desk lamp, Post-It Note dispenser, powered USB hub and all the crap I have plugged into it. Measuring the dimensions from the company website and selecting the right product was the right move. Everything I want to have close at hand sitting/standing fits comfortably.This product is beautifully designed and constructed, totally stable, and raising/lowering is fast, effortless, and silent. I find the space more than adequate, and sitting/standing heights are right for me.I spend way too much time sitting at my desk. I started getting into the habit of getting out of my chair and walking around for every possible phone call, and felt much better when I did. I feel like getting this product has probably added a few months to my life! This is one of the best office product/furnishing investments I have made. Very satisfied!
6 people found this helpful
CJThompson –
I LOVE this standing desk!
This Varidesk model is one of the best things I’ve ever bought! First, I like being able to stand while I work and know that it is healthier for me than just sitting all day. It’s SO easy to raise and lower the Varidesk — the levers to raise and lower the desk perform smoothly and quietly.I have my second monitor on the upper level of this desk, as well as other office needs, etc., I never worry about my monitor falling off because this desk is so well-made and the smooth raising and lowering of the desk doesn’t cause any wobble — it’s sturdy and stable, going both ways.There is a free app you can download to your computer to remind you when it’s time to stand. You set your own limits — I have mine set to 30″ sitting and 1 hour standing — and you can skip a reminder to stay standing or sitting, too. The app will tell you how many calories you burned while standing.Be SURE to get yourself a good (don’t skimp) gel mat to stand on — especially if you have hard floors (wood, tile, concrete) — or your legs and back will suffer. I have carpet and I still need to use a gel mat. Also, be aware that this desk is heavy, so you’ll need help getting it to your office desk and getting it out of the box. (The UPS man was not happy that he had to carry this up my long driveway and up my stairs!) It does come fully assembled right out of the box – so you can use immediately!My only complaint is that it only came in black (not sure if that’s changed now) and I have a brown desk — but I’m so happy with it, I don’t care!
Motana –
Excellent Quality
Excellent choice! Easy to raise and lower. Good space for writing while on a call. Well made. Highly recommend.
maxbmaxb –
Sturdy Quality Converter Desk – Worth it!
This desk is very sturdy and firm. Heavy also! It rises to a perfect height for me at 5’8″. There was a problem with the first one, but the seller sent a replacement immediately and was very understanding. That was more important than the replacement itself. No assembly – comes ready to use which is a dream.