You’ve seen the reports about how sitting is the new smoking. We’ve been encouraged by numerous medical professionals to stand or exercise when possible. Is the FlexiSpot Standing Desk a viable option to help photographers and videographers switch to an upright workflow?
Note: FlexiSpot sent the E7 Standing Desk to review. However, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts about this desk are our own.
Personally, it has been difficult to stand while working at my computer. Plugging in cameras to USB hubs, looking at multiple monitors, and performing fine mouse movements in Adobe software were just some of the tasks that were more annoying while standing at a regular desk or using risers. Then, FlexiSpot sent me their E7 Standing Desk. I was initially unsure this would improve my prior attempts at a standing workflow, but once I assembled the desk, things changed.
As you may assume, the entire desk moves up. This eliminates the need for bulky risers for individual monitors (especially risers that only lift up some of your desktop items). It’s also pleasing to the eye thanks to minimalist design and openness. Who knew kinetic furniture could have form and function? While multiple wood types, colors and widths are available, I received the large bamboo top and found it to be stunning with a very sturdy feel. In fact, this particular desk supports over 350 lbs. It accommodates a dual monitor setup, including my large 43” Dell monitor. The feet of the desk have adjustable levelers to assure stability.
Movement is controlled by a touch keypad and with a readout to let you know the height. You can set multiple memory positions, so it’s easy to go from your exact preferences for standing and sitting height with the touch of a button. It can go low enough for children (~22”) and high enough for very tall people (~48”). There is a child safety lock so children or pets don’t accidentally touch a button while you’re away. The movement is powered by a smooth and quiet motor. For convenience, the keypad has a USB charging port for those that like to keep their phone or other gear nearby on the desk.
FlexiSpot Standing Desk — Setup
I know that you’re probably thinking of how terrible it is to set up a new desk. Equipment to move, cables to run, and coming to the realization that you should dust more is just the beginning of the horrors of changing desks.
But, this desk comes together surprisingly easy. It comes with all the assembly tools you need. The only step that took me a little extra time was aligning the predrilled holes in the top of the desk with the frame. Yes, it is heavy, but also not that heavy considering the motor and weight-bearing ability. And because it is a sleek but simple design, it’s not a dusting nightmare.
FlexiSpot Standing Desk — What’s keeping YOU from trying it?
There may be lots of little reasons why you haven’t tried a standing desk. Let’s see if this desk can overcome them.
First, you may wonder where you’re going to hide your mess of cables and plugs. After all, this desk doesn’t have a back panel. In reality, it is enjoyable being able to access your cables easily without the constraints of a traditional desk. Besides, most of us have a desk against a wall anyway, so it isn’t really hurting anything.
The desk has a cable tray that accommodates the cables that power the desk, so the only cable extending down is the power cord. I have a lot of equipment on my desk, and even more off to the side. But, I’m able to group my power cords going to a surge protector on one side and the other power cords on the other. My subwoofer to my speakers creates most of the cables seen going up to the desktop. The rest of my shorter USB-style connections rest comfortably on the desk.
Next, you may wonder about drawers and storage. I have a second piece of furniture that houses my wireless printer, RAID storage, office supplies, and files. But in exchange, I have complete freedom of movement around my desk, especially when sitting. I don’t have to fit in the “U” of those corner desks where I have to turn my neck oddly at my secondary monitor. I don’t have drawers on the right or left forcing me to be in the exact middle of the desk. And I can access my peripherals and clean around the area easily. My working area remains really clean, and I appreciate the productivity from good feng shui.
Another nice thing about the openness of the desk is that you can keep a small piece of exercise equipment under there, such as a step, walking pad, or other calorie-burning aid. Also note that FlexiSpot offers accessory options. For example, you can install a power hub on the desk or install a small pullout drawer for smaller office supplies.
Finally, you may be worried that standing all day will lead to fatigue, back pain, and other symptoms. Since this desk automates the height to just a button press, you can go between sitting and standing in about 2 seconds (enough time to wheel your chair over, sit, and pick right back up where you left off).
