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How Much Does a Standing Desk Cost? A Complete Price Breakdown

When you start eyeing up a standing desk, one of the first questions that pops up is: How much is this going to set me back? Prices are all over the place—from under £100 to well over £1,000. So what’s the deal?

Let’s break down exactly what affects standing desk pricing, what’s worth your money, and how to find the best value without getting lost in the weeds.


Why Standing Desk Costs Vary

Key Factors That Influence Price

First off, not all standing desks are created equal. The price tag depends on materials, build quality, weight capacity, adjustment mechanism, and brand reputation.

A desk with a rock-solid metal frame, a huge choice of solid top finishes from stock, whisper-quiet motor, and sleek finish will naturally cost more than a flimsy model with a non-solid 18mm top (think thick cardboard!) and post-sales customer service who are more difficult to reach than Lord Lucan.

Then there’s the functionality - app based control, in-desk accessories (e.g. chargers / power), programmable settings and anti-collision sensors all add to the cost. If you’re unsure which features are worth the upgrade, our guide on What to Look For in a Standing Desk can help you decide.

Finally, there is the cost of getting the desk to you in perfect condition. We’ve all received items damaged during delivery – it is one of those things that happens on occasion. Imagine how easily desk tops are damaged if thrown around by a careless delivery driver. For this reason, tops should be packaged very carefully with resilient (and expensive) packaging. For larger tops (1.8M long or greater), this is still not enough and palletised delivery is the only way to ensure a great customer experience. Pallets are used to pack out either side of the tops to protect the edges from impact damage. Two operatives may be needed to deliver these items too. All of this adds to the overall cost.

Comparing Manual vs Electric Standing Desks

Manual desks use a crank or lever to adjust height. They’re typically cheaper and have fewer parts that can go wrong. But you’ll be putting in a bit of elbow grease each time you switch positions.

Electric standing desks are more user-friendly—tap a button and the desk glides to your preset height. These tend to cost more but offer a smoother experience, especially if you're switching postures several times a day.

Want to understand the ergonomic impact? Our article on Are Standing Desks Good for You? breaks it all down.

How Much Is A Sit Stand Desk - Comparing Manual vs Electric Standing Desks

Price Ranges by Type of Standing Desk

Standing Desk Converters: Budget-Friendly Options

Converters sit on top of your existing desk and allow you to lift your monitor and keyboard to standing height. They start around £75 and go up to £250 for larger or more adjustable models.

They’re ideal if you’re dipping your toes into the world of standing work, or if you’re tight on space or budget.

Manual Crank Standing Desks: Mid-Range Flexibility

Manual models typically fall in the £150–£500 range. They offer full-desk height adjustment without the cost of electric components.

A solid choice for someone who wants the benefits of a standing desk without blowing their budget—just be ready to do a bit of cranking!

Electric Standing Desks: Premium Features and Pricing

Electric desks tend to start around £300 and can go north of £1000, depending on the brand, quality, size and features. Expect bespoke builds with stunning looks, high-quality tops (that won't bow under pressure), smooth rise / fall mechanism, quieter motors, longer guarantees and responsive customer service,

If you're working from home full-time or using it in a shared office, the added convenience and durability is well worth the investment. Expect expert installation services to be available too, for that perfect end result.

High-End Ergonomic Workstations: Are They Worth It?

For £1,000 and up, you’re looking at executive-level setups with heavy-duty motors, integrated cable management, built-in wireless chargers, and high-end custom wood finishes.

Think Savv-e Pinnacle, Herman Miller, Vari, or other designer brands. These desks are built to last and impress and are perfect for the prestige office set-up.

Our guide Are Standing Desks Worth It? dives into whether high-end options really deliver.

How Much Is A Stand Up Desk - High-End Ergonomic Workstations

Additional Costs to Consider

Accessories and Add-ons

The desk itself is just the beginning. Add-ons like Bluetooth control (with accompanying app), monitor arms (£30–£100), anti-fatigue mats (£40–£90), and cable trays (£20–£50) help complete the setup.

While not essential, these extras improve comfort and help you stick with your standing routine. Need advice on setting up your desk properly? Tips for Using a Standing Desk has all the ergonomics covered.

Delivery, Assembly, and Warranty Coverage

Some desks ship flat-packed with DIY assembly required. Others offer white-glove delivery and setup for a fee. This can be very useful for larger desks, or where the destination is not straightforward (e.g. into a block of flats). Your desk will be carried in by the fully insured expert installers, assembled, tested and all packaging removed. Standard delivery services are typically kerbside (or to your property entrance if it is accessable). Delivery personnel are not usually insured to enter your premises, so be prepared to take over from your door-step.

Also, check the warranty. A good standing desk should come with at least 5 years of coverage on the frame, top and motor. Some premium models offer 10+ years, which can justify the higher upfront cost.


Cost vs Value: What Should You Really Pay?

Balancing Budget with Long-Term Benefits

A standing desk is an investment in your health and productivity. If you’re using it daily, spending a little more for better quality and features is usually worth it.

But don’t overspend for the sake of fancy bells and whistles you won’t use. A stable frame and smooth height adjustment are what matter most.

Top Picks for Every Price Range

  • Under £250: standing desk converter or budget manual desk— be sure to pick this carefully as there are many poor quality imported desks on the market
  • £300–£600: Mid-range electric desks —strong mix of performance and style
  • £800 and up: Premium brands with custom finishes, ultra-quiet motors, top-tier warranties and extra services on offer

Look for real-user reviews and transparent specifications to avoid disappointment.

How Much Is A Standing Desk - Cost vs Value

Final Thoughts: Getting the Best Value for Your Standing Desk Budget

Standing desks come in all shapes, sizes, and prices—but you don’t have to spend a fortune to reap the benefits. Browse our full standing desks collection to find a fit that works for your space and budget. All of our desks are backed by our superb 5* rated UK based customer service.

Decide what features you actually need, how often you'll use them, and set a budget accordingly. A solid £400 desk used every day beats a £1,000 setup collecting dust.

Test one out if you can. And if standing helps you feel better and work smarter, then it’s worth every penny.


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