Standing Desk vs Desk Converter: Which Should You Buy?

The Core Decision

If you want to start standing while you work, you have two main options: replace your existing desk with a full-size electric standing desk, or add a desk converter (also called a desktop riser) to your current setup.

Both solutions let you alternate between sitting and standing, but they differ significantly in cost, stability, workspace, and convenience. This guide breaks down the trade-offs to help you make the right choice.

What Is a Full-Size Standing Desk?

A full-size standing desk replaces your existing desk entirely. It has a motorized (or manually cranked) frame that raises and lowers the entire desktop surface. The desktop typically ranges from 48 to 72 inches wide and supports your full workspace.

Price range: $300 to $1,500+

Popular models: FlexiSpot E7 Pro, Uplift V2, Fully Jarvis, Branch Standing Desk

What Is a Desk Converter?

A desk converter sits on top of your existing desk. It has a platform for your keyboard and mouse, plus a raised shelf for your monitor. You squeeze a lever or press a button to raise or lower the platform.

Price range: $100 to $500

Popular models: VariDesk Pro Plus, FlexiSpot M7B, Ergotron WorkFit-T

Head-to-Head Comparison

Stability

Winner: Full-size standing desk

Full-size standing desks, especially those with dual motors and heavy steel frames, provide excellent stability at all heights. The entire desk surface moves as one unit, so your monitor, keyboard, and accessories all maintain their relative positions.

Desk converters are inherently less stable because they are a platform sitting on top of another surface. At full standing height, many converters exhibit noticeable wobble, particularly when typing. Higher-end converters use gas-spring mechanisms that reduce this issue, but they cannot match the stability of a well-built standing desk.

Workspace and Ergonomics

Winner: Full-size standing desk

A full-size desk gives you the entire desktop surface at both sitting and standing height. You have room for dual monitors, a full keyboard and mouse setup, notebooks, drinks, and accessories.

Desk converters force you to work within a limited platform. Most converters offer about 30 to 36 inches of width for your keyboard and mouse, with a separate monitor shelf above. This can feel cramped, especially with larger monitors or dual-screen setups.

Ergonomically, full-size standing desks allow better positioning because you can adjust the entire surface to your ideal height. Converters raise everything together, which sometimes means your monitor is too high or your keyboard is too low relative to your elbows.

Cost and Convenience

Winner: Desk converter

Desk converters are the clear winner on cost and convenience. A quality converter costs $150 to $300, while a comparable standing desk runs $400 to $600. And with a converter, you keep your existing desk, which means no assembly, no disposal of your old desk, and no commitment to a permanent change.

If you rent your home, a converter is especially appealing. You can take it with you when you move, and you do not need to deal with assembling and disassembling a full desk.

When to Choose a Full-Size Standing Desk

A full-size standing desk is the better choice if:

• You plan to use it daily for the foreseeable future
• You need a large workspace for multiple monitors
• Stability at standing height is a priority
• You want the cleanest, most professional look
• You are setting up a new workspace from scratch
• Your budget allows $400 or more

When to Choose a Desk Converter

A desk converter is the better choice if:

• You want to try standing without a major investment
• You like your current desk and do not want to replace it
• Your budget is under $300
• You rent and move frequently
• You have limited space and cannot fit a full-size desk
• You want something you can set up in minutes

Our Recommendation

For most people setting up a dedicated home office, we recommend a full-size standing desk. The superior stability, larger workspace, and better ergonomics make it worth the additional investment. The FlexiSpot E7 Pro and Branch Standing Desk are excellent options under $500.

However, if you are new to standing and unsure whether it is right for you, starting with a desk converter is a sensible approach. You can always upgrade to a full-size desk later once you know that standing works for your routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a desk converter on any desk?

Most desk converters work on any flat surface that can support the weight (typically 30 to 50 lbs for the converter plus your equipment). Ensure your existing desk is sturdy enough and has enough depth to accommodate the converter.

How long do desk converters last?

Quality desk converters with gas-spring mechanisms typically last 5 to 10 years with regular use. Cheaper models with mechanical lifts may wear out sooner.

Can I convert a regular desk into a standing desk?

Yes, desk converter is one option. You can also look into standalone monitor arms with keyboard trays, or leg-mounted risers that attach to your existing desk frame.

The Bottom Line

Both options will let you reap the health benefits of standing while you work. The right choice depends on your budget, workspace constraints, and commitment level. If you are going all in, get a standing desk. If you want to dip your toes in, start with a converter.