Recommended Standing Desks (<$1000)

[tbc]

Can anyone recommend a standing desk that doesn't cost like $1000 in Canada?

I'm currently using an ikea tabletop with extendable legs.  While it works, it's hardly sturdy and I'd like to find something a little bit better for myself.

thoughts?  also no desk with sharp corners (i'm clumsy and those corners hurt like hell)

[PointyFox]

Build one for $10 in materials?

[tp4tissue]

Ok...

stand up

stack books and boxes under your monitor/ keyboard until you're satisfied..


Then, measure, remember height..


Go buy some aluminum L- bars... build off-wall-shelf.

[tbc]

Build one for $10 in materials?

i think it's REALLY hard to build a desk with height-adjustable legs for less than a taxi ride.

[jorgenslee]

I am also in search with this kind of desk, but the problem is it requires to be custom built to suit my needs. Given your budget, why not ask a local manufacturer to build one for you? Does geekhack have a community design for ergonomic desk? I think tThat would be cool in my opinion.

[PointyFox]

Build one for $10 in materials?

i think it's REALLY hard to build a desk with height-adjustable legs for less than a taxi ride.

You didn't say it needed to have adjustable legs. 

How about turning an adjustable sheet music stand or podium into a table?

http://www.amazon.com/Gearlux-Deluxe-Collapsible-Orchestra-Music/dp/B009MBT68U/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1391798481&sr=8-6&keywords=adjustable+sheet+music+stand

[gameaholic]

I love my geekdesk max.  You can buy just the frame and mount a table top from Ikea onto it. 

http://www.geekdesk.com/

[tp4tissue]

I love my geekdesk max.  You can buy just the frame and mount a table top from Ikea onto it. 

http://www.geekdesk.com/

ur freaking NUTs... $800 for a steel frame table that probably cost $20 to produce.?

[Parak]

Simplified Building has a bunch of projects for desks, including standing ones, such as http://www.simplifiedbuilding.com/blog/adjustable-height-sitting-and-standing-desk/

You'll easily be able to come in under your budget, and get a very customizable desk while you're at it.

[PointyFox]

I love my geekdesk max.  You can buy just the frame and mount a table top from Ikea onto it. 

http://www.geekdesk.com/

That looks just like my Seville Classics workbench minus all the accessories I got for $180 including drawers, drawer liners, florescent light, pegboard, hooks, and power strip.

http://www.samsclub.com/sams/seville-classics-lighted-hardwood-top-workbench/prod3460484.ip

It's not fully adjustable for height, but you can easily work at it while standing.  It's 37'' tall.

[kod]

ur freaking NUTs... $800 for a steel frame table that probably cost $20 to produce.?

I'd love to see where I could buy that much raw steel for $20, nevermind the motor or the electronics....

[PointyFox]

ur freaking NUTs... $800 for a steel frame table that probably cost $20 to produce.?

I'd love to see where I could buy that much raw steel for $20, nevermind the motor or the electronics....

Steel is $0.47 per pound at the most, so you should be able to buy 50 pounds of steel for $20.

[tp4tissue]

ur freaking NUTs... $800 for a steel frame table that probably cost $20 to produce.?

I'd love to see where I could buy that much raw steel for $20, nevermind the motor or the electronics....

Steel is $0.47 per pound at the most, so you should be able to buy 50 pounds of steel for $20.

I've never seen slabs of steel for sale anywhere for (pick up)

I've seen aluminum slabs though.

[Lanx]

just pasting what i wrote in a previous thread
my old place (i just moved) had this setup

2x
ergotron monitor wall mounts
ergotron keyboard wall mount arm

you can wall mount it and it'd be no problem

[tbc]

absolutely no wall mounting. rental suite.

and 28" monitor.

seriously.  not going to put a 28" monitor on the wall.  i don't give a **** if the specs say it's safe.

[Lanx]

i used my ergotron with a 24 and i velcro'd 2 heavy bostonacoustics speakers to the sides. but if you can't drill, you can't drill.

btw as long as you drill into studs, you can hang anything relatively safe.

[Input Nirvana]

ur freaking NUTs... $800 for a steel frame table that probably cost $20 to produce.?

I'd love to see where I could buy that much raw steel for $20, nevermind the motor or the electronics....

Steel is $0.47 per pound at the most, so you should be able to buy 50 pounds of steel for $20.

I've never seen slabs of steel for sale anywhere for (pick up)

I've seen aluminum slabs though.

An industrial material supplier will have steel/iron, brass, aluminum, copper, etc. in various type of stock….plates, round, tubes, shanks, screens, grills, etc. and will make various cuts for you. You can get just about anything.

[mashby]

The Wirecutter has a great overview for standing desk that served me well in selecting mine.

I opted to buy the Geek Desk v3 legs and then attach them to my Ikea desktop. I started a Photo Gallery, but didn't finish posting all the photos yet. A photo of the completed setup is below.

Hope that helps!

[tp4tissue]

The Wirecutter has a great overview for standing desk that served me well in selecting mine.

I opted to buy the Geek Desk v3 legs and then attach them to my Ikea desktop. I started a Photo Gallery, but didn't finish posting all the photos yet. A photo of the completed setup is below.

Hope that helps!

Show Image

Now imagine that table.. with a SOLID Steel slab 1 inch thick...  omg... that's 326.26lbs of sexyness according to portlandbolt.com   1 inch thick, 2 feet by 4 feet...

[Gid]

Switching to a standing desk was the best change I ever made in my life of using computers--even more so than leaving Windows for Linux.  It takes some getting used to, as I'm sure you've already heard.  Even after a year or so of daily use, I still take sitting breaks every two hours or so.  When I don't feel like taking a break, though, I can go up to ten hours with no problems.  Since switching to a standing desk, I have received compliments on my erect posture... People who sit at computers all day tend to hunch forward, I guess.

As you get used to standing, your feet will change position, shifting weight from one to the other or balancing weight in between, without you even noticing.  I find my knees rocking back and forth, practically dancing, with the right music in the background... As I typed that sentence, I realized that I was doing just that.  Anyway, movement is good.  I've yet to make the jump to treadmill computing, but my legs make up for it on their own accord.  It didn't come naturally at first; I had to tell myself to move.  Now, it comes naturally.

Also, when you're simply viewing the screen for any period of time, it helps to free your hands from the keys and mouse.

As far as the desk itself goes, you might want to look into steel wire shelfing.  A really good brand in North America is called InterMetro.  A lot of their stuff is industrial-grade.  I use a Japanese-made version that includes a slide-out shelf for the keyboard and is rated to hold 135 kg per shelf.  It's solid and dependable.  The whole set-up only set me back a couple hundred bucks.  If you're looking for something cheaper, though, like Fox says, you could smelt your own steel shelving from iron ore.

[rpx]

There are actually quite a few options at different price points. I've been looking to build my own standing desk lately, so here's some stuff I found.

- Standing desk for $22 (IKEA hack)
- Steel pipe+IKEA Numerar countertop build log
- IKEA Numerar build log w/ Ergotron arm

If you're looking to purchase and not DIY build, the Wirecutter's post that other people linked is a great reference.

Post pics and possibly a review when you land a new desk!

[vivalarevolución]

There are actually quite a few options at different price points. I've been looking to build my own standing desk lately, so here's some stuff I found.

- Standing desk for $22 (IKEA hack)
- Steel pipe+IKEA Numerar countertop build log
- IKEA Numerar build log w/ Ergotron arm

If you're looking to purchase and not DIY build, the Wirecutter's post that other people linked is a great reference.

Post pics and possibly a review when you land a new desk!

I did the cheap standing desk from IKEA.  I gave up on it after a while because particle board IKEA tables could not support any weight.  I had a tendency to lean on the keyboard tray.   Then BOOM!  The keyboard tray gave in, and I was out of standing desk.  And that little IKEA table has poor stability.

I recommend spending the money for something different if you want a more solid setup that will last you awhile.

[vivalarevolución]

Also, I did a Craigslist search and some college kid in a nearby town was looking to sell a standing desk.  It was this model you can get off Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WRGIMI/ref=s9_simh_gw_p201_d1_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0HXEYJV5NMVG1EFVK95E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

I will pick it up on Saturday, and see how it works.  I know it will be some particle board piece of junk, but the frame is steel.  Perhaps I will be able to throw a solid piece of wood on the desk if I can.  Who knows.  I am not too concerned about the quality of the wood because my laminate piece of junk desk has lasted me a good couple of years.


The same manufacturer also makes an adjustable height desk, but it old goes about 4 inches higher than the non-adjustable version.

http://www.amazon.com/Safco-1929CY-Adjustable-Stand-Up-Workstation/dp/B001MS70Z2/ref=pd_sim_hg_3

[Psybin]

Check the link in my sig, Geekdesk FTW.

Its cheaper if you just buy the frame and use a top from wherever.

[Gid]

Check the link in my sig, Geekdesk FTW.

You have an inspiring set-up.

[vivalarevolución]

Another thing that I wanted to mention is the usefulness of a tall chair or stool.  I say this in about every thread about standing workstations, but a tall chair or stool allows you to sit at about the same height as when you are standing, and does not require you to move the desk up and down.

Plus, you get the feeling of lording over the room when you are sitting down, which means more to me than the potential health benefits of a standing desk.

[kod]

Is there a particular chair or stool you like?  Some of the standing stools I've seen cost more than a desk would

[vivalarevolución]

Is there a particular chair or stool you like?  Some of the standing stools I've seen cost more than a desk would

Yea, I know, that's a bit of an issue.   The price for a good stool are outrageous, like over $1000.  But having a good chair makes a difference.  I was able to find a Body Bilt chair from a local used office furniture store for probably one-third of the list price.   Then I did some research and found that the furniture store probably bought the thing for one-tenth of the list price off Craigslist. 

Just go to Craigslist and use search terms like "stool, drafting stool, drafting chair, tall chair, tall office chair, tall office stool,  etc."   Or find a local used furniture or office furniture store.

With a standing workstation, you do not have to invest as much in a chair because you are not in the thing all day.  When you get uncomfortable sitting, you can stand up for awhile.  When you get uncomfortable standing, you can sit for awhile.  It provides flexibility and movement.  I would have quit my office job a long time ago if I had to sit down all day.

[vivalarevolución]

Is there a particular chair or stool you like?  Some of the standing stools I've seen cost more than a desk would

Also, I did find this one by Steelcase.  Not crazy expensive, but still pricey.

http://store.steelcase.com/products/crew-stool/

[daerid]

My work provided me with a Series 5 by Steelcase. Aside from the slightly smallish desktop, it's been rock solid.

[vivalarevolución]

My work provided me with a Series 5 by Steelcase. Aside from the slightly smallish desktop, it's been rock solid.

Nice workplace.  I had to raise my desk myself.

[tbc]

Also, I did a Craigslist search and some college kid in a nearby town was looking to sell a standing desk.  It was this model you can get off Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WRGIMI/ref=s9_simh_gw_p201_d1_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0HXEYJV5NMVG1EFVK95E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

I will pick it up on Saturday, and see how it works.  I know it will be some particle board piece of junk, but the frame is steel.  Perhaps I will be able to throw a solid piece of wood on the desk if I can.  Who knows.  I am not too concerned about the quality of the wood because my laminate piece of junk desk has lasted me a good couple of years.


The same manufacturer also makes an adjustable height desk, but it old goes about 4 inches higher than the non-adjustable version.

http://www.amazon.com/Safco-1929CY-Adjustable-Stand-Up-Workstation/dp/B001MS70Z2/ref=pd_sim_hg_3

thanks alot!!!  i read this post much earlier, but was too lazy to reply :/

I actually saw this desk a couple of year ago (the adjustable one) and I couldn't believe someone was charging $500 for such a small desk.  I promptly threw it out of my brain forever.  It's a bargain compared to the standard 1K desks now; even though it's like double the price in canada.

thanks again!

[vivalarevolución]

Also, I did a Craigslist search and some college kid in a nearby town was looking to sell a standing desk.  It was this model you can get off Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002WRGIMI/ref=s9_simh_gw_p201_d1_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0HXEYJV5NMVG1EFVK95E&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

I will pick it up on Saturday, and see how it works.  I know it will be some particle board piece of junk, but the frame is steel.  Perhaps I will be able to throw a solid piece of wood on the desk if I can.  Who knows.  I am not too concerned about the quality of the wood because my laminate piece of junk desk has lasted me a good couple of years.


The same manufacturer also makes an adjustable height desk, but it old goes about 4 inches higher than the non-adjustable version.

http://www.amazon.com/Safco-1929CY-Adjustable-Stand-Up-Workstation/dp/B001MS70Z2/ref=pd_sim_hg_3

thanks alot!!!  i read this post much earlier, but was too lazy to reply :/

I actually saw this desk a couple of year ago (the adjustable one) and I couldn't believe someone was charging $500 for such a small desk.  I promptly threw it out of my brain forever.  It's a bargain compared to the standard 1K desks now; even though it's like double the price in canada.

thanks again!

So I picked up the desk today and I am taking it for a ride right now. For reference, I am six feet tall. In my tall chair, I find the desk to be about the perfect height.  While standing the desk is a little low, so I probably will put my monitor on some books or something.  I do not like to look downwards while using my monitor.

The desk is a little wobbly.  As I typing this right now, the monitor is shaking a bit, but this monitor is huge, so it could just be my monitor.  I expected that, because it's on wheels and not the heftiest desk.  You can take the wheels off so the legs are in contact with the floor rather than the wheels.  Nothing's ever perfect.  But I like it, nonetheless and probably will keep it around.

Here are some pictures of everything in action.

[rpx]

Nice follow up, OP.  How big is your monitor? 24"?

Also, someone should start a 'Post your standing desk/workstation thread' in the media section.

[vivalarevolución]

Nice follow up, OP.  How big is your monitor? 24"?

Also, someone should start a 'Post your standing desk/workstation thread' in the media section.

Oh, I'm not the OP.  But my monitor is 29" or 31".  It's actually a TV that I use as a monitor with an HDMI cable.

[Proword]

A conversion kit, for changing a normal desk into a standing desk.

http://www.gizmag.com/the-upstanding-desk/31211/

[kod]

I'm having trouble seeing why someone would want to pay $250 for that conversion kit, when they could get a single column electrical adjustable desk for a little less than twice that much.

[tbc]

looks like the desk version of a bento box lol

[mashby]

I'm having trouble seeing why someone would want to pay $250 for that conversion kit, when they could get a single column electrical adjustable desk for a little less than twice that much.

Agreed.

Before I pulled the trigger on my desk, I used boxes to test and see if it was something I would be comfortable. It wasn't ideal, but it was free and gave me some indication of what it would be like.

[wasabah]

I'm having trouble seeing why someone would want to pay $250 for that conversion kit, when they could get a single column electrical adjustable desk for a little less than twice that much.

You can also just spend 25USD, get the plans and build it for yourself.
Or just build it by yourself without the plans, I mean, the design is pretty obvious. ^^

[EvillePanda]

The Human Solution has some options.  http://www.thehumansolution.com/computerdesks.html

I've never used a standing desk.  I have bad feet and standing for extended periods of time is painful.  But I've looked at them.

[blackbox]

Any news op? have you look at any of these ideas?

http://www.wisebread.com/11-attractive-standing-desks-you-can-actually-afford

[ajunakey]

A conversion kit, for changing a normal desk into a standing desk.

http://www.gizmag.com/the-upstanding-desk/31211/

Show Image

That looks pretty neat. How much does one of those cost?!

[Architect]

The Geekdesk is OK. I have the large one I eventually set up for my kids computer. It's a rather cheap Chinese setup though that is also sold under other labels. The "it should cost $20" comment is uninformed, Sit/Stand desks are a speciality item that aren't free. At any rate the problem with the Geekdesk is that the main desk has a tendency to warp over time unless you use the cable bar underneath as support. It's also a rather dumb design frankly, just being a big slab of particle board.

The absolutely best sit/stand desk is Herman Miller using a Baker Manufacturing base. The keyboard stand on this is to die for, and the corner units are the best (you get a large selection of desk tops). industrial strength and the best ergonomically. The down side is they cost $1500 each.

[mashby]

The Geekdesk is OK. I have the large one I eventually set up for my kids computer. It's a rather cheap Chinese setup though that is also sold under other labels. The "it should cost $20" comment is uninformed, Sit/Stand desks are a speciality item that aren't free. At any rate the problem with the Geekdesk is that the main desk has a tendency to warp over time unless you use the cable bar underneath as support. It's also a rather dumb design frankly, just being a big slab of particle board.

The absolutely best sit/stand desk is Herman Miller using a Baker Manufacturing base. The keyboard stand on this is to die for, and the corner units are the best (you get a large selection of desk tops). industrial strength and the best ergonomically. The down side is they cost $1500 each.

I've heard that complaint as well regarding the GeekDesk -- that the desktop surface is pretty cheap. Thankfully, they do sell just the legs and you can bring your own desktop for a more affordable and better looking desk. For me, I use the Gerton from Ikea for my desktop and have been very, very happy.

Do you have a link to the Herman Miller desk? $1,500 doesn't sound that expensive considering it's a Herman Miller. The Terra by Next Desk sells for $1,500 as well and I'd love to compare them.

[mashby]

Just saw this on Kickstarter. It's a new standing desk called Stand Desk and it looks like early-bird pricing has it at $400 for a complete desk.

[blackbox]

Just saw this on Kickstarter. It's a new standing desk called Stand Desk and it looks like early-bird pricing has it at $400 for a complete desk.

Looks awesome! Finally an inexpensive standing desk that have the same features as an expensive one.

[ideus]

Just saw this on Kickstarter. It's a new standing desk called Stand Desk and it looks like early-bird pricing has it at $400 for a complete desk.

Looks awesome! Finally an inexpensive standing desk that have the same features as an expensive one.

The desk looks awesome and the company hits new record funding seed capital.

[simplisity]

The SafCo standup desk runs for about $250 - $300. Nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.

http://www.niftyinterior.com/157_page_1139014.htm

[plainbriny]

I have follow this thread for some time, and finally get a LCD arm to lift my monitor. This one is for quad-monitor setup, but The height is just right for a standup setting.
http://www.lindy.co.uk/audio-video-c2/display-brackets-c195/modular-desktop-mounting-system-c199/700mm-desk-clamp-pole-p3024

The problem is that I need to lift my keyboard as well. Currently I use some boxes stacked on the table, will see how it works and find other solutions.

[EvillePanda]

There is this for a keyboard wall mount. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?gclid=CJ-SlcPC5r0CFUYV7AodtS8Agg&Item=N82E16824994875&nm_mc=KNC-GoogleAdwords&cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-_-pla-_-Monitor+Accessories-_-N82E16824994875&ef_id=UyJjXwAAAGTcX@yW:20140417025455:s

[plainbriny]

Unfortunately my desk does not facing a wall, so wall-mount is not possible

I am using a LCD stand/keyboard tray now, the space below can hold some misc items
Though not optimal, it is usable now

And after a couple of days using computer in standing position, I found it rather fun
It also saves some space, since I don't need to have chair around

The current setting is far from tidy, but I am satisfied with it, for now

[Altis]

What I did is mount my computer box (mid-tower) transversely behind my 23" monitor (at the back of the desk running lengthwise). I have my monitor sitting on a 6" (15cm) cube box.

When I want to stand at my desk, I just lift the monitor and box and place them on top of the computer box. I then use a small shelf with legs (or just use another box) for the keyboard, and if need, the mouse.

Works well as a free alternative that lets me try a standing desk in my home office. I'm putting in a raised shelf at the back of the desk which will get rid of the need for a box, as the whole back of the desk will be raised ~6" already.

Another thing I'm going to do is mount a shelf or two on the wall in my office, very small, that will be used for a standing workstation. It won't be a desk, but a standing computing solution. Let's me have another keyboard to use, as well.

I can take photos if anyone is interested.

[Heliobb]

One build in the same mood as opendesk :

The laptop is now in a better place to doesn't have to lower your head too much.

[templanet]

I have been researching sit stand desks for more than a year and still haven't made a decision. I am very picky!

What I learned is standing all the time is just as bad for you as sitting. So the idea is you have to keep moving. That's the main argument for sit stand desks.

https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2017/09/standing-too-much-at-work-is-seriously-bad-for-you/

I read an article a while back where they said you can look at the structure and tell if a desk is going to be wobbly at standing height or solid. If the lifting mechanism is thinner at the top than at the bottom that is a bad sign. The ones made by people who know what they are doing add extra metal bracing where the column joins the frame.
The latest trend in sit stand desks is to remove the bar mid way down the desk, this can also lead to instability if extra bracing is not added.

They also said the super cheap ones designed and made in China can be manufactured poorly. They said they aren't good with electrical tolerances in the motors or something like that, so they don't last long. I can't explain it properly as I am not an electrical engineer.  There are only three linear actuator manufacturers that have been in the standing desk scene for a long time, so they are ones to look for. If I find the link that named them I will post it. Linak was one of them.

I think these are the guys that talk about that kind of thing a lot. They review standing desks and make their own called iMovR. so it could be all just a sales pitch. But read around there to get some ideas on what to look for,.
http://www.workwhilewalking.com/diy-standing-desk-choosing-the-right-base
http://www.imovr.com/imovr-cascade-corner-standing-desk.html


Here's what I know about some desk brands:
 
Ergotron look good but never go high enough or low enough for me. They are set up to use keyboard tray paradigm, but I want to have my forearms sit flat on the desk, like this picture. I also like body pockets which is a cut out made in the desk, that lets you rest your forearms on it.
https://activdesk.com.au/sit-stand-ergonomics/

I looked at IKEA but from what I read their desks don't last long and people were having trouble getting IKEA to fix them inside the warranty.

Conset

Dual column:
https://www.conset.us/Product/default.aspx?m=prod&id=120

I read a comment where the 501-25, 501-27 have trouble if you have an unbalanced desk, but if you have a single monitor setup they would be fine. The one that is solid as a rock and can take 150 kg is the 501-11. I saw a guy say it is design brilliance, but it is their top of the line model, far more than I want to spend and its too big for my home.

Single column:
https://www.conset.us/Product/default.aspx?m=prod&id=118

I read a comment at Fully where they said the 501-7 wobbles at standing height. The 501-19 is the one I will probably get as it is single column and will leave enough room for my feet as I use a saddle chair.


Jaswig
This is a wooden standing desk for around $300. No sitting down unless you get one of those ergonomic seats on a stick. They also make a little wooden stool for it, but their seat looks like it would cut off my circulation. I would have bought it if I used a laptop and it was designed to be used with a saddle chair.

http://www.jaswig.com/

This video gives a good look at the structure and stability.

Then there are desk risers made of wood. If I could lean on them with my forearms and use my chair with them I might get one.
https://humbleworks.uk/compare-standing-desks/

This is one I found recently. It is only for laptops, but it is a metal tripod you can fold up and take with you. I would have to assume it wobbles at standing height.
http://www.instand.com/cr5/cr5.shtml

[Altis]

IKEA Skarsta, rock solid sit-stand desk for around $250.

https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S49084965/

[templanet]

I found the articles that name component makers and structure at this website. My memory is terrible. I remembered only one correctly.

1. Motorized Desks Are Expensive

The most common questions and concerns our customers have about this type of standing desk are related to the cost. Because of the technology added to the desk, the cost will typically be greater than a comparable sitting desk. While the sticker price might shock you, it’s important to note that you get what you pay for. Opting for the cheapest standing desk might get you standing sooner; however, issues with cheap standing desks are more likely to occur within the first 12 months.

Buying Tips: It’s important to look at the brand and how long they have been producing a product. Most of the motorized sit to stand desks are actually being produced by other companies. While longer warranties are important and should be considered during your purchase, a manufacturer’s track record can tell you a lot about the products durability. Find out who the actual manufacturer is and research them in greater detail. Motorized standing desks have been around a long time and the manufacturers of the best components are located in Europe. Only within the last five to six years have the Chinese manufacturers begun to produce the motors, gears, and other electronics found in most motorized desks. We highly recommend brands that are utilizing components from companies, such as Linak, Oelschläger Metalltechnik (OMT), LogicData, and Ketterer. These companies have proven to be leaders in the field since the inception of the motorized standing desk category.
...

https://www.btod.com/blog/2017/02/12/9-most-common-problems-with-motorized-standing-desks/

Reasons for Standing Desk Instability

There are a lot of reasons why a standing desk will have stability issues. The problem goes beyond the traditional cross support. It’s important that we address these issues so that when you’re shopping you know what to look for. While some of these will require testing the desk, others can be spotted through pictures. Knowing what to look for and the questions to ask will ensure you don’t end up with an unstable desk.

...

No Traditional Cross Support
While this one would appear to be obvious, the lack of a traditional cross support almost guarantees a desk will have lateral stability issues. While all cross supports were not created equal, those used on the VertDesk v3 and GeekDesk v3 are good examples of a good cross support. While many brands say their standing desks are just as stable without a cross support, the truth is that’s not physically possible. I imagine most shoppers are savvy enough to see through these claims.

Lack of Wedge System
While desks without traditional cross supports suffer lateral stability issues, there are ways to improve these problems. The Uplift Desk is a good example, with the use of a wedge in the upper portion of their column they have improved their lateral stability. While this won’t be equal to a desk with a cross support, it is a big improvement over standing desks that do not feature a traditional cross support.

...

https://www.btod.com/blog/2017/09/29/top-6-most-unstable-electric-sit-stand-desks/


And here they name their top desks
https://www.btod.com/blog/2017/08/26/4-best-electric-standing-desks-under-1000-in-2017/
https://www.btod.com/blog/2018/01/04/the-best-electric-sit-to-stand-desks-for-2018/

[heyitsqi]

One thing I will say from personal experience is that generally the higher price tag for better inner components, such as the motor can be worth it.

I went from an expensive standing desk at work at an older company (I forget the model but they were around 1k+) then went to a newer company that has about 250-400 dollar standing desks and the quality is very apparent.

The BIGGEST issue for ME personally is the noiseness of the motor. If I was buying for at home I'd definitely think hard about saving up for a nicer one that has a quieter motor. The 1k+ one motor wasn't silent but the noise wasn't jarring if that makes sense. The cheaper ones the motor just makes this horrible sounding noise to me that I honestly hate and I sometimes loathe to change from standing to sitting just because the motor noise bothers me so much.