I have been using this desk for the past year now and it is awesome.
What I dislike about the authors suggested setup is the fixed height. Often, the initial height that you set the desk to will become uncomfortable. As your body adjusts to using a standing desk, you will probably find that you would prefer something a few inches different from your initial setup. That would be a several hour project with something mount to the wall, but only takes about 15 minutes with these desks.
I've got an older (and larger) version of that desk and really like it. I've set it up in standing mode before, but didn't really stick with it.
It's worth checking Craigslist in your area too, there's usually people selling these desks pretty cheap. At least that's been my experience; got mine used for $70.
At my height, bar tables are perfect standing desks, and bar stools are perfect if you want to sit down without having to think about changing desk height.
Wouldn't it be awkward over long hours though? Specifically wouldn't you want the keyboard near your waist and the monitor closer to your head, as opposed to bending to look at the screen; or having to raise your arms closer to your shoulders?
The keyboard is ~6 inches above my waistline, which feels perfect to me. The screens are the same distance from my head whether I'm standing or sitting.
I keep a barstool by the desk for any periods when I am tired, although interestingly enough, I find that I sit when I'm learning, and stand when I'm producing (I'm a web dev). So exhaustion isn't the primary dictator of whether I'm standing or sitting.
Interesting, thanks. Do you think one could use only one of the two narrow shelves and put a large screen on it? Can it support the weight? That way you could have keyboard and screen at different heights.
I wonder that as well. Product description mentions only table top, but the construction suggests that shelves also can be mounted at different heights.
I went to Ikea and came home with the same desk for my home office.
While the assembled height can be changed, do be aware that the increments are relatively large, like maybe 3 inches. It worked out fine for me, but might not be very comfortable for someone slightly taller / shorter.
What I dislike about the authors suggested setup is the fixed height. Often, the initial height that you set the desk to will become uncomfortable. As your body adjusts to using a standing desk, you will probably find that you would prefer something a few inches different from your initial setup. That would be a several hour project with something mount to the wall, but only takes about 15 minutes with these desks.