7 Best Standing Desk Converters In Australia For 2024

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Toying with the idea of getting a sit-stand desk converter or a new standing desk? Since you’re here, that tells me that you have neither the time nor money to splash out on the latter.

You want to stand more, right? Maybe your back is giving you grief, or your posture is worsening.

In which case, take down that Facebook marketplace listing for a minute.

A sit-stand desk converter is a much less disruptive solution – not to mention more cost-effective. Much cheaper than even the cheapest standing desks, it can be set up on your existing desk with minimal fuss.

You might feel as though you’re compromising when buying a sit-stand desk converter, and while they’re not as sophisticated as fully-fledged desks, some seriously stylish and practical solutions out there won’t hurt your pride.

I’ve compiled a shortlist that includes something for everyone. Only the best made the cut.

(Related: Zen Space Desk Review: Did The Company Go Broke?)

1. UpDown Standesk Pro Sit-Stand Workstation.

Best overall standing desk converter.

The UpDown Standesk has enviable real estate and is like a big brother to the other adjustable standing desk converters in this review.

It features an electric motor and a telescopic adjustment, allowing smooth transitions between different heights.

It even comes with a built-in monitor mount, freeing up ample space on the upper tier for useful gadgets and stationery.

Pros.

The UpDown desk converter can be adjusted at the push of a button, with six possible height adjustments and a height-memory function that allows you to pre-set three of your favourite heights.

When the electric motor kicks in, the sit-stand desk converter rises vertically, without encroaching on the rest of your desk space.

Other standing desk converters, like the spring-assisted VariDesk open up and outwards, so you need to be cautious when placing hot drinks in their path.

What makes the UpDown extra special is its anti-collision mechanism, which protects any objects beneath from getting crushed – and also the desk itself from collision damage.

When an obstruction is detected, it reverses direction to prevent contact.

But it’s good to know that all your tech can be supported. The max load of other desk converters in this review peaks at 15kg – just enough for two monitors.

Up to three monitors can be attached to the UpDown’s mount using the VESA plate, whereas some desk converters can only accommodate one, such as Desky Zero.

When all three monitors are placed side by side, you feel like you’re sitting in mission control at NASA.

It has a height range of 44cm, second only to the Nulaxy’s range of 47cm – though the latter puts your laptop at risk at full extension since its max load weight is a paltry 10kg.

For peace of mind, UpDown offers a 100-day risk-free trial and a five-year warranty (the joint-best in this review).

Cons.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: at $799, the UpDown converter is pricey. At the upper end, you’ve got the Ergotron at $865; at the lower end is the Nulaxy, costing $55.

It’ll cost more than some electric height-adjustable standing desks like the Artiss and will be out of many home workers’ budgets.

One of the UpDown’s limitations is that it requires power.

If you like working at your kitchen table while having your morning coffee and a croissant, you’ll have to leave behind your desk converter (unless you have a power source close by).

The upper tier also has a monitor arm, and there’s no option to buy the standing desk converter without it or even remove it.

Those with laptops will find their range of screen tilt is severely restricted by this.

Also, if you want a triple bracket for three screens, it’ll cost you an additional $199; a double bracket will set you back $99.

While there are six height adjustment positions to select from, I’d much prefer free rein over the height, down to the exact millimetre, in the same way you can tinker with the electric height-adjustable sit-stand desks in the UpDown range.

Verdict.

The UpDown desk converter offers convenient electric height adjustment, anti-collision technology, and superb weight capacity.

However, it’s quite expensive and lacks portability.

The most limiting aspect for me is the lack of precise height adjustment. You have only six height options to choose from. I would have much preferred to programme the perfect height.

If you’re sitting on the fence, take advantage of the generous trial. You’ve got nothing to lose.

How Does The UpDown Converter Stack Up?	Score
Price	4
Build Quality	5
Aesthetics	5
Cable Management	4
Ease of Assembly	5
Extra Features	4
Warranties & Returns	5
OVERALL	4.6/5.0

Specifications.

2. Desky Zero Sit-Stand Desk Converter.

Second best standing desk converter.

The Desky Zero doesn’t have a premium price tag but offers many premium features.

The two-tiered system boasts a decent standing height range and allows the keyboard and mouse to be raised in sync. It arrives pre-assembled, meaning you can get down to business without fiddling around.

Pros.

Firstly, your inner Scrooge will be relieved that the Desky Zero is almost a third of the price of the UpDown Standesk.

It’s a compact piece of apparatus with no unsightly or obstructive appendages that stick out, like the UpDown’s monitor mount.

With other models, like the AIMEZO and the VIVO, their silver screws and hinges cheapen the appeal of the desk converters.

Cheaper desks like the Nulaxy and VIVO are made with aluminium.

Woe betide any burglar who breaks into your home and comes face to face with you, wielding this at full extension like some makeshift club.

Conversely, when using the Nulaxy, you’ve got two metal lips that hold the laptop in place, but they’re too close for comfort when using your laptop’s touchpad.

As for the Desky Zero’s hydraulics, the gas lever locks in place, and it is easy to adjust between the seated position and standing.

Cons.

Considering the bulkiness of the frame, I’m surprised at how easy it is to make it wobble by simply typing – in both the raised and lowered positions.

Any additional pressure causes the standing desk converter to shake.

Given that the keyboard tray is only 66cm, there’s very little room for anything other than a mouse and keyboard.

If you need extra desk space, the Ergotron is 91cm wide and has enough space for your trusty notepad, tablet, office supplies, and coffee mug – and then some.

One of my other gripes with the Desky Zero is the height of the computer screen when sitting down. At 16cm, it’s too high.

If you need a lower setup, choose a standing desk converter that can be lowered below 10cm, like the Nulaxy (3cm) or the AIMEZO (5cm).

I’m slightly disappointed that Desky doesn’t offer this in any different colours. So much of their range of standing desks is available in engineered wood with different melamine finishes.

Also, you’ve only got room for a single monitor, so gamers and spreadsheet maestros should consider an UpDown or Ergotron.

Verdict.

The Desky Zero offers an attractive, affordable option. Those short on space (particularly desk depth) will appreciate the compact design.

Writers and those involved in data entry positions will likely be frustrated by the slight wobble when typing, and the lack of keyboard tray space restricts usability.

The support for only one monitor means it won’t meet the needs of gamers or multitaskers.

How Does The Desky Converter Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	5
Aesthetics	4
Cable Management	4
Ease of Assembly	5
Extra Features	3
Warranties & Returns	5
OVERALL	4.3/5.0

Specifications.

3. VariDesk Pro Plus 30.

Best compact sit-stand desk converter.

The VariDesk Pro Plus is an impressive mid-range standing desk converter with a heavy, stable base and thicker-gauge steel with a 3D laminate finish.

Also, for added comfort, its steel mechanism is wrapped in foam to protect against pinch points.

Pros.

With the dual-hand design and spring-assisted lift, you have superior control over the height set of the VariDesk.

Even though it’s a spring-assisted model (typically cheaper but longer lasting), the transition to different heights feels as smooth as the gas-assisted lever.

The standing desk converter lifts up and out rather than just vertically, with the keyboard tray protruding and suspended in midair.

Other desk converters like the VIVO, where the keyboard tray barely extends, force you to get too close to your screens.

In such close proximity, you may hear your own mother’s voice inside your head warning you that you’ll get square eyes when standing too close!

But not so with the VariDesk.

At 21kg and with its weighted base, it feels solid and would take some serious leaning on it to topple it over.

It has 11 height settings, almost twice as many settings as the more expensive UpDown Standesk.

The keyboard tray has a smooth ergonomic curve, which reduces the odds of creating abrasions on your wrists during long workdays.

For convenience, the Ergotron and UpDown have a similar cutout (although less prominent), but it’s worth remembering that these models are around $240–$300 more expensive.

The product comes already assembled, unlike the Desky Zero and VIVO.

They also have a 30-day risk-free returns policy, so you won’t have to grin and bear something if something doesn’t feel right.

Cons.

This desk converter tends to wobble when you type.

We don’t live in a perfect world where desk converters don’t move because, you know, a little thing called physics.

But considering the entire footprint of the base and how evenly the weight is spread, I would have expected less movement.

Part of the problem lies in the fact that the keyboard tray has limited space to rest your hands at the front, so you’ll find that they hover in an unnatural position.

The keyboard tray has a depth of 24cm, and it’s even shorter in the middle by a couple of centimetres where the profile of the tray is curved.

That’s 6cm less than the VIVO and UpDown keyboard trays.

If you have an existing monitor arm, there’s a chance that it won’t fit, especially if it has a bulky clamp.

As with the Desky Zero, at its lowest height of 15cm, it feels too high when sitting.

Those shorter than 5 foot 4″ will feel as though they’re sitting in the front row at the cinema.

Okay, so maybe I’m exaggerating there. But the monitor will be above their eye level, enough to cause mild neck pain after extended use.

You have just enough space for a laptop and one monitor, but your monitor will overhang considerably.

Also, with the Z-frame, you’re more likely to trap your fingers when adjusting the height, so be careful when closing.

Verdict.

With 11 height settings, the VariDesk offers precise adjustments, and its ergonomic keyboard tray design is wrist-friendly.

The main drawbacks relate to the product dimensions: at its lowest height, it’s too high for shorter individuals, and it lacks sufficient space for dual monitors.

You can, however, use a laptop on the lower tier and a monitor on the upper tier for casual multitasking.

You might find it handy to always have a screen showing your calendar or emails while you go about your other work.

How Does The VariDesk Converter Stack Up?	Score
Price	4
Build Quality	4
Aesthetics	4
Cable Management	4
Ease of Assembly	5
Extra Features	3
Warranties & Returns	4
OVERALL	4.0/5.0

Specifications.

4. Nulaxy Laptop Stand.

Best cheap stand-up desk converter.

The Nulaxy laptop stand offers an entry-level option for those looking to experiment with sit-stand working – without having to part with hundreds of bucks. It’s about the most space-saving solution you’ll find.

This slimline converter can be folded away and easily stored at the end of the working day. Despite its agile profile and lightweight construction, it’s really strong.

Being unconventional, it’s one you’ll either love or hate.

Pros.

Hate it or love it, the price of this adjustable desk riser will appeal to your thrifty side. Those who love a bargain can experiment with sit-stand working on a budget.

You wouldn’t believe how many people out there have adjustable standing desk converters just sitting in their attics or garages gathering dust.

But for less than $60, you’ve so much less to lose, and your pride will remain intact should you decide it’s not for you.

You won’t need to stand trial and answer to your spouse, who would otherwise assert that that money would have been better spent on a weekend away at some luxury spa.

Great price (as Bunnings likes to remind us) is just the beginning.

Portability is Nulaxy’s other key strength.

When packed down, its height is a grand total of three centimetres, which is super slim and only a tad thicker than a laptop. Most other sit-stand desk converters in this review are over 10cm and are much heavier.

It’s aesthetically pleasing and somewhat inconspicuous – so if you decide to use this in a public place, you won’t attract unwanted attention and curious frowns.

The grippy padding on the feet prevents it from sliding on even the smoothest desktops.

Ventilation in the platform is a welcome bonus, especially if your laptop is a powerful model that’s prone to overheating – perhaps when gaming or if you have tonnes of programmes running concurrently.

I wouldn’t recommend setting this up in no-man’s-land in the middle of your desk. Make sure to back it up against a wall in case it ever leans back.

Cons.

The Nulaxy has a low lifting capacity of up to 10kg. That said, it’s designed specifically for laptops, and the average weight of a laptop is between 1.5–3kg.

So, you’re in good hands – that is, unless you’re balancing your laptop at the tallest height.

If you balance it in such a position, it’ll look (and feel) similar to a tightrope walker tiptoeing across a vast canyon while suffering from cramp.

It wiggles when you type, especially when elevated over 40cm.

There’s a knack to using the retractable pull handle and adjusting it to your preferred setting.

While that has advantages, it’s stiff enough to cause problems when adjusting. You’ll need to heave a little to get it in your desired position.

You may find that readjusting is more hassle than it’s worth and put up with your chosen height for longer than you ordinarily would.

Your only other option would be to buy a wireless keyboard and place this on a stack of books, using your laptop as a screen only.

Verdict.

The Nulaxy is competitively priced and accessible for those on a budget, but just because the price is cheap, it doesn’t mean the quality is.

It’s not the fanciest, but it’s not an eyesore either. Some bulky models like the VariDesk and the UpDown stick out like a sore thumb and clutter your desk.

With the Nulaxy, you can maintain a clean desk policy.

How Does The Nulaxy Converter Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	3
Aesthetics	3
Cable Management	3
Ease of Assembly	4
Extra Features	2
Warranties & Returns	4
OVERALL	3.4/5.0

Specifications.

5. Ergotron WorkFit Workstation.

Best sit-stand converter for dual monitor setups.

I know what you’re thinking: that’s a lot of money.

Its notched worksurface means it can fit flush at any right angle, maximising your corner space.

You get plenty of space to mount two monitors, and the workstation’s X-frame rises horizontally, preventing you from bumping into adjacent office walls.

Pros.

The Ergotron serves a particular niche, that being those working in corner spaces or using corner desks.

However, that’s not to say that it’s exclusively for those working in corners.

The footprint of this thing is huge.

You can easily mount two monitors and have additional “shelf space” in front of the monitors for a notepad, tablet, or even a decorative succulent or two.

It has a width of 91cm versus UpDown’s 80cm, giving you extra room to roll around your mouse liberally.

When your space is restricted, you’ll find that you’ll use any other surface other than your keyboard tray to operate your mouse (especially if your mouse speed setting is slow).

When adjusting, the X-frame moves up and down and doesn’t move outwards into your work environment like the spring-operated Z-frame of the VariDesk.

Although the standing desk converter looks lightweight, at 26kg, it’s the heaviest model in this review and about 20% heavier than the second heaviest, the VariDesk (21kg).

It’d take an earthquake or some intentional force to topple these over.

It ships fully assembled, too.

Cons.

Price is always going to be a sticking point for many. After all, we go to work to earn money, not spend it.

And just when you think you might actually be able to stretch your budget, you realise that you’ll be paying almost another $300 for a dual monitor kit.

At almost $1,200, you’ll be seriously questioning why you wouldn’t just pay for a height-adjustable standing desk that’s made out of softwood like acacia.

Wouldn’t you prefer the full thing?

At 26kg, it’s not like the Ergotron is portable and can be moved around your workspace for a dynamic experience. It’s as rooted to your workstation as any other desk is.

Heaviness and strength often go hand in hand, so, surprisingly, the lifting capacity is only 15.9kg when it weighs 26kg.

You’ve got the UpDown out here (which is smaller) with a lifting capacity of 50kg.

Verdict.

The Ergotron is ideal for corner spaces as well as single-wall setups. You’ve got some serious space to spread out, and plenty of room for mouse movement.

With such a high price tag, though, it’s less accessible to those on a tight budget. If you have money to burn, there’s a stronger argument for investing in a height-adjustable standing desk.

Specifications.

6. VIVO Height-Adjustable Standing Desk Converter.

Best stand-up desk converter if you’re on a budget.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with the range of colours and sizes to choose from with the VIVO – something which there is a distinct lack of in other models.

It has a wide keyboard tray and anti-slip pads underneath, keeping your desk free from scratches. Its solid steel frame can accommodate up to 15kg, so serious professionals will have little trouble mounting up to two screens.

Pros.

The VIVO is a breath of fresh air as far as price is concerned. Standing desk converters are expensive on the whole. But this is a rare exception.

Even Apple knows how uninspiring black and white variants have become and has been launching new-generation smartphones in different colours.

So, if you’re restricted on space, you can choose a 26″ model, but if you plan to mount two monitors, go for a 42″ model.

With the VIVO, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

It uses a pneumatic spring lift which is different to a typical mechanical spring-assisted lever like the VariDesk’s. An air spring system provides a smoother experience to reduce any vibration felt when adjusting the height.

A pneumatic spring system offers you a smoother ride.

It’s hard to believe that a standing desk converter for less than $200 bucks has a smoother lift mechanism than the VariDesk, a desk converter that costs almost three times as much.

The keyboard tray can also be removed using the provided hex tool (in case you want to go rogue).

Cons.

While the product description specifies that some variants are made out of wood (light wood, wood, etc.), they’re actually made out of particleboard.

The description can be a little misleading, and I expect some are surprised at this when unboxing.

You want a standing desk converter to feel as though it’s one solid piece, like the Desky Zero, which I earlier remarked could be used as a makeshift club to fend off burglars.

The design of the VIVO is basic.

No getting away from that. It looks similar to the AIMEZO, which is one of the cheapest in this review (coming up next).

Maybe that’s just me. I’m not a huge fan of the X-frame models.

The height range is abysmal.

A 16.2cm range and a max height of 26.7cm render this useless for anyone over 5 foot 8″. Even when standing, you won’t be able to optimise the screen height to your eye level.

You’ll find yourself looking down at a screen even when the keyboard is set at the right height.

Verdict.

It’s a crying shame that more of the best standing desk converters don’t come in a variety of colours. Anything but black is the new black.

Thankfully, VIVO has stepped up and offered us a stand-up desk converter in six colours.

They’re also the only manufacturer of different sizes in this review, offering you a bespoke product that’s tailored to your specific needs.

You want a desk converter primarily because you need to stand up more, but it will only cater for shorter individuals. Those over 5 foot 8″ will need a desk that can be elevated over 40cm.

Specifications.

7. AIMEZO Standing Desk Converter.

Good entry-level option.

At less than $100, the AIMEZO is ultra-basic, but it gets the job done without the superficial elements like electronic touch buttons and an insane weight capacity.

It packs down easily and can be moved from one place to another with minimal effort.

The height range is impressive and features a gas-spring lever for elevation, which is more common in expensive models.

Pros.

The AIMEZO is a decent value-for-money option, competing at a similar price point to the Nulaxy.

The height range is fully functional from the lowest setting (5.5cm) right to the highest setting (37.5cm).

That would be an extremely cost-effective and space-saving solution.

Its desktop is constructed of high-quality MDF – not particleboard like the VIVO which costs twice as much. The sturdy legs are made from steel, too.

But this makes use of a gas-spring lever, which is more common in expensive models like the Desky Zero and Ergotron, meaning your transitions between heights are smooth.

When extended, you create additional space beneath, which you can use to store stationery and other materials temporarily.

Other X-frame desk converters, like the VIVO and Ergotron, have wider bases that cover the desk area beneath.

Cons.

The AIMEZO’s biggest downfall is its load capacity. A max capacity of 8kg is pretty underwhelming. Some large monitors weigh more than that.

I find the design of this particularly uninspiring. It reminds me of an ironing board, which is anxiety-inducing because who the heck needs reminding of that growing pile of laundry while they’re working?

I might be inclined to use my ironing board as a desk converter. You’d get some unparalleled width and height range. But I digress!

The rubber wheels are very basic too.

Also, the base isn’t weighted, so it’s a top-heavy standing desk converter. If you have a cat, keep it away, as it may use this as a place to nap.

Verdict.

Now that I’ve said it, it’s hard to shake the image of an ironing board.

If you’ve got an executive suite vibe going on, scroll back up to the UpDown Deskstand or the Ergotron and reconsider.

Those with larger monitors will need a desk converter that can support a greater load. A maximum load of 8kg doesn’t inspire confidence when mounting your tech worth thousands of dollars.

I have some nervousness about how top-heavy this thing is. Keep away from children and pets (and hot drinks).

Specifications.

What To Look For In A Standing Desk Converter.

Standing desk converters come in many shapes and sizes. It’s a much harder decision to weigh up than purchasing a typical desk since their features aren’t homogenous. It’s like comparing apples and oranges.

But rather than discuss the obvious, like lift capacity and height range, let’s turn our attention to an abstract concept: the feel of the desk converter – something that can’t be specified in quantities (kg, cm).

You know how you instinctively have a favourite mug because it feels a certain way? Well, that.

Think about:

Life in plastic is not fantastic – especially cheap matte plastic that’s rough to the touch. The type of finish is important. Desk converters where there are tonnes of visible screws and metal components look cold and industrial (and not in a good way).

Top-heavy stand-up desk converters give off the impression that a light breeze would knock them over.

You want a desk converter that will protect your hardware when raised. If your existing desk is already wobbly, there’s even more reason to be concerned about stability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Standing Desk Converters.

Here are a few frequently asked questions that will help you weigh up whether a standing desk converter is the right choice for you.

Should I Get A Standing Desk Or A Standing Desk Converter?

A stand-up desk converter offers many advantages over a standing desk. They’re portable, which means you can easily transfer them from your desk to the dining table, your coffee table in the living room, or even your outside table.

You don’t need a power source to get you up and running, nor do you need to worry about electric motors busting when their two-year warranty expires. Most are manual and operated by an easy-access hand lever.

Aside from assembly being much easier, you won’t have to break the bank to get your hands on one as their prices start from around $50.

Are Standing Desk Converters Worth It?

Some are, others aren’t. Standing desk converters range from $50 to $1,000, and the standard of quality varies greatly. If you choose a quality one, they can be just as effective, if not more convenient, than a standing desk.

With a desk converter, you can test out whether you like standing while working before committing hundreds of dollars.

It’s an entry-level purchase that negates the need to swap out an entire desk only to find out you never use your height-adjustable desk for its intended purposes (happens all the time).

Standing while working isn’t for everyone. You decide.

What’s The Difference Between A Z-lift And An X-lift Desk Converter?

These are the two main types of stand-up desk converters, both of which are named after the shape of their architecture.

A regular Z-lift (the most popular type) is supported by two lifting arms that lift up and out. An X-lift desk converter lifts up and down, collapsing in on itself. X-lifts are generally cheaper and more compact than Z-lift converters.

Which Is Best: Spring-Assisted or Gas-Assisted Levers?

Gas springs are more expensive than their mechanical counterparts. They allow your desk converter to move silently and provide a slower release of force.

Mechanical or compression springs are cheaper, but they last longer. You don’t have to worry about leaky seals or parts failing, but they’re slightly noisier than gas springs.

With springs, the transition between heights for your desk converter is generally less smooth.

Final Words On Choosing The Best Standing Desk Converter.

You can augment your home office without splashing out on a height-adjustable desk or paying for coworking spaces. But a standing desk riser won’t resolve your back pain and posture problems alone.

For a truly rounded ergonomic experience, there needs to be a successful marriage of office chair and computer desk.

And like any marriage, there are good and bad ones.

If your office chair is uncomfortable, you’ll likely spend a disproportionate amount of time standing at your desk – and vice versa. Excessive standing can be just as bad as excessive sitting.

A desk converter won’t answer your prayers if you’re still using a beaten-up leather executive chair that you picked up at a car boot sale in 2005.

Before making any purchase, consider your ultimate combo and make sure your budget allows for both.

Tommy