Bringing an affordable sit-stand desk into my home office has improved my work-from-home routine. Here's my advice for using a standing desk and a discount code to make it even more affordable for you, sponsored by Autonomous.
Earlier this year, I replaced the small computer desk I'd been using since grad school (we won't get into exactly how many years it's been since I graduated) with a motorized sit-stand desk and it has truly helped me to work smarter. I get much more use out of it than I initially assumed I would and want to give you a detailed review of my experience to help you as you research whether to invest in a sit stand desk for your ergonomic home office setup.
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What is a Sit Stand Desk?
A sit-stand desk or adjustable standing desk functions like a normal sitting desk but the legs can be moved to elevate or lower the work surface, allowing you to work in a variety of sitting or standing positions. Some are manual, in that you raise and lower the desk with a lever, dial, or crank of some sort. Others are automated and change position by activating the motor with a keypad.
How Much do Sit Stand Desks Cost?
My idea of how much sit stand desks cost was previously informed by the lengthy and in-depth process to get one supplied at my corporate office. Working in HR, I know how long it takes and how much information is required for an employee to get approved to add a standing desk to their office. Apparently, they're quite pricey--and not even automated. For these reasons, I never seriously considered having a sit stand desk at home. That changed when I learned about the affordable sit stand desk options from Autonomous.
Manual adjustable height desks are generally on the lower end of the price range at around $200-$300. And automated or motorized stand up desks can be more than twice that price. What I like about the Autonomous sit stand desks is that their prices are closer to the lower end of the range but the quality is at the top. And you'll get an even better price by using code "26DASHOFJAZZ" on top of their current sale!
Why Buy a Standing Desk?
Last summer, I began experiencing back pain that persisted for such a long time and got so bad that I needed an injection from my physician and a round of physical therapy. I could never put my finger on what exactly brought it on but I knew that the hunched over way I was working--whether at my tiny budget desk or over my personal laptop on the couch--was making it worse. To be clear, a home office standing desk is not the cure for my back pain but it has greatly helped reinforce the right posture for keeping it at bay.
Improved posture has been a major benefit for me but is not the only upside of using a standing desk. A desk job is generally associated with a sedentary lifestyle, which ups the risk of many health conditions including heart disease. And between running this blog and working as a Diversity & Inclusion Advisor, I have two desk jobs. 2020 was a great year for me, work-wise and I'm going after even more in 20201 so I can easily rack up 14+ hours behind the computer in one day to get everything done. So I appreciate being able to work in positions that support my posture and focus.
Are Sit-Stand Desks Worth It?
I thought standing while working might be distracting or draining but I actually feel more alert and energized when doing so. It's a simple way to give myself an energy boost after lunch or toward the end of the day. Since I began working from home around this time last year, I've added a few habits to my routine to help me stay more active, focused, and refreshed throughout the workday. Here's what helps the most.
- Let in lots of natural light and even fresh air when the weather is favorable.
- Rotate between sitting and standing positions at my desk to engage my back, leg, and core muscles.
- Take outdoor walks for fresh air and exercise.
Now, I'm able to use my desk not only for working at a computer but also for crafting, folding laundry, and hobbies I enjoy like flower arranging. And it helps me to maintain ergonomic body positioning through each activity. So is an adjustable sit stand desk worth it? In my opinion, very much so. If you typically work at a desk--especially for long hours, I recommend this one.
Autonomous Desk Features
- Autonomous sit stand desks come in five styles, two sizes, and several different colorways to fit your space and style. I chose the SmartDesk 2 with a classic White Oak top in the standard size, which is a solid standing desk even for a small workspace.
- I love that I can change the position of my desk with the push of a button. No cranking or lifting is required to go from sitting to standing and vice versa.
- In addition to the simple up and down buttons, my desk has presets that remember up to four positions that I use most often.
- My automated sit-stand desk lifts and lowers very smoothly, so I don't worry about what's on top of it shifting out of place or falling.
I hope you found this review helpful. Let me know if you have any questions I didn't answer. Be sure to compare and contrast the options for yourself and use code "26DASHOFJAZZ" to save on your Autonomous affordable adjustable standing desk. Thanks for reading!
Kimberly says
I wonder if both my monitors would fit on this desk.
Jazz says
Both of my monitors fit on this desk but I sometimes go into my corporate office so I left one there and just carry my laptop between!