Flexible Workstations or Desktop Converters: Which Suits You Best?

When fitting out an office space, there are so many things to think about. Workplace design trends, lighting, flexibility and size all play a role in how your office will turn out. But one of the key factors to think about when redesigning or updating your workplace is whether to get a desktop converter or a flexible workstation.

So, what exactly are the differences between these two essential pieces of office equipment? And which would work best for your office space, budget and unique needs?

In this article, we’re going to delve into the similarities and differences between workstations and desktop converters so you can decide which is the correct choice for you.

What Is a Desktop Converter?

Desktop converters come in all shapes and sizes. As the name would suggest, they convert an existing desk into a sit-stand desk. They’re placed on top of a desk and can be raised or lowered to standing and sitting positions depending on the comfort or needs of the user.

At Elevar, our range of desktop converters includes both manual and motorised lifts and can be used on several different desks, including corner units.

Desktop converters are a great and flexible way to make offices and workplaces more dynamic and comfortable for users.

What Is a Flexible Workstation?

Flexible workstations are entire units that can be raised to a sit-stand position, meaning it isn’t just ideal for a computer screen but for all the equipment you have on your desk. Like desktop converters, they can be both manual or motorised and are generally considered even more dynamic because the whole work surface raises to a standing position. This means there’s no need to buy extra keyboard stands or other equipment which would help to make desktop converters more comfortable because the layout stays exactly the same.

Workstations Vs Desktop Converters: Which Is Best for You?

At Elevar, our workstations and converters are adaptable and versatile and are designed to fit any office fitout. However, there are a couple of things you need to bear in mind when choosing a sit-stand desk or a converter. Thinking about the following points before your purchase will help to ensure you make the right choice for your working needs and those of the office.

1. Available Space

With any office fit-out or update, space is one of the most important factors to consider. You need to maximise the area you have but also leave enough room for productive and convenient work. In general, desk converters tend to be smaller and can be used with your existing desks – meaning you know they’ll fit.

Flexible workstations, such as an electrical sit-stand desk, tend to be bigger and may require an office layout reshuffle. For those who don’t have enough space or time to plan through a new office layout, a desk converter is a quick and easy solution.

2. Ergonomics and User Comfort

Both workstations and desktop converters can be manually or electrically raised to position. Of course, an electric sit-stand desk or desktop converter is more convenient and requires less input from the user. Simply push a button and the equipment can rise to a pre-programmed position. Manual equipment usually takes a little more effort but can often be more economically friendly.

User comfort is one of the biggest reasons why people choose a flexible workstation. The whole desk rises and lowers with you, meaning there’s no need to bend down for notepads, mobile phones or other desk equipment. Everything is at the same level which makes it really comfortable. The only thing that changes is your working position.

3. Adjustability and Flexibility

Another important thing when thinking about desktop converters and workstations is how adjustable they are – especially if you have workers of multiple heights in your office. If your office encourages hot desking or dynamic working, then it’s important that different workers can easily adjust their desks to the correct height. Some electric sit-stand desks and converters allow you to preprogram a certain height, meaning that it rises to your perfect height every time.

You also need to consider other desk equipment and your work surface. Some desk converters are purely designed with a laptop or computer in mind, meaning there’s not much space for monitors or other screens you might need. Most have space for keyboards and mice, but some employees may prefer to have a fixed space rather than a keyboard or mouse platform.

4. Cost Considerations

Of course, there are lots of cost implications that arise with a new office fit-out and it’s important to think about these in the planning stage. Generally speaking, desk converters are a better choice for those on a tighter budget. There’s no need to buy an entire new desk but you can still experience the benefits of working from a standing position.

Flexible workstations, however, tend to cost more as they’re a larger unit and require more design. There are plenty of added benefits that make them a great investment though!

5. Compatibility with Existing Office Furniture

When it comes to compatibility, desktop converters tend to come out on top. They can be placed on existing desks (as long as they’re sturdy enough and can withstand the extra weight) and don’t require any other equipment or redesign of the office layout and space. Whilst workstations may be compatible with your existing office chairs, they would replace other desks and might be larger, meaning some other office furniture may need to be removed.

6. Design

Like most things design-related, this comes down to personal taste. If you like the look and feel of your current setup, then a desktop converter is the better choice for you. However, if you have an old-fashioned or clunky desk then you might want to consider a workstation. Flexible workstations are usually sleek and well-designed to bring a light and modern feel to an office to increase productivity and happiness.

7. Assembly

Again, this really comes down to your office needs and how much time you have. Desktop converters are usually quick to assemble and can be used straight away. Workstations take a little more time and you might need to think about wire management too. Whilst assembling a workstation shouldn’t take more than an hour, this can easily add up in large offices.

Purchasing Your Office Furniture from Elevar

We understand that fitting out an office can be a huge task to take on, especially if you’re aiming for an ergonomic setup. There are plenty of positives for both desktop converters and workstations but the main thing to think about is whether you want to keep your existing office furniture or have a completely new design. Our team of experts at Elevar will be happy to answer any questions you might have about your office fit-out and advise on which of our desktop converters or workstations would be best for your space. Get in contact with the team today for personalised advice.