If you are reading this column, you certainly know the benefits of sit-stand desks. But what are we talking about? A sit-stand desk allows users to alternate between sitting and standing positions, giving them the option of raising or lowering their work platform. In this period of excessive working-from-home and sedentarization, it helps to distribute pressure points (especially to relieve the back) and to exercise. Thus encouraging to change position more times during the day than with a traditional desk.
However, many people still do not equip themselves due to lack of space. This is where standing desk converters (also known as risers) come in. They are a great way to change a classic desk into a sit-up one. The Vari group, created in 2013 in Texas, is one of the leaders in the field. Today we tested one of its flagship models, the VariDesk Pro Plus. Does he deserve his popularity? Answer here.
A model that is unanimous
The VariDesk Pro Plus 36 costs $ 395 in the US and € 425 in Europe. It’s not the most expensive of converters, but many believe it’s the most upscale. Everyone agrees, well designed and well thought out. It is available in white or black. The 36 inch version is 91.4 cm wide. The model is also available in 30.32 and 48 inches. The height of the desk (top, not keyboard tray) can range from 4.5 inches (11.5cm) when fully folded, to 17.5 inches (44.5cm) when fully deployed. It has 11 height adjustable positions. The adjustment mechanism is almost completely silent. Only a click is heard when locking.
A simple … and complicated setup at the same time
After removing the packaging, all you need to do is take out your VariDesk Pro Plus, and that’s it. Unlike other standing desk converters that require a certain level of assembly work, the VariDesk Pro Plus comes fully assembled. All you have to do is remove the packaging and padding.
An all-in-one look that is not without its problems. The VariDesk Pro Plus is heavy (the 36-inch version weighs almost 24 kilos). Moving it requires at least 2 people. Don’t hurt yourself by installing a desktop converter that’s supposed to take care of your health. In addition, due to its Z-shaped construction, the desk extends horizontally, not just vertically. In addition to being heavy to lug around, the VariDesk Pro Plus has a certain range and takes up space.
Despite its weight and its amplitude, the VariDesk Pro Plus has won over users with its high-end design and functionality. Silence when making adjustments is also considered a big plus. The market for sit-stand desks and converters appears to be booming. And it’s neither our skeleton nor our waistline that will complain.