Looking to try a standing desk without a big investment? Try this DIY standing desk for less than $50!
I transitioned to a standing desk in 2014 and have never looked back. I’m far more efficient and productive. (See Is a Standing Desk For You?)
My adult son Ryan recently switched to a standing desk, creating this inexpensive setup.
DIY Affordable Standing Desk (Guest post from Ryan Fabry)
I’ve wanted a standing desk for a while. When I moved into a new space, I didn’t feel like spending $200 on one when I knew I could make it myself. Now that I’ve figured this out, I couldn’t be happier!
With this custom setup, I control how high or low my screen is and, most importantly, how far away I am from the screen. I can even put up my easel next to it so I don’t lose the ability to draw at my desk. If you’re looking for a cheap alternative to expensive standing desks then I have the setup for you!
Items Needed
1. Wall Shelf ($7)
Wall shelf, 12 in. x 24 in. (Find it here.)
2. Brackets ($7)
Rubbermaid Black Arch Steel Brackets, 6 in. x 8 in. (Find them here.)
(Mount each bracket into a stud if possible. You want this to be secure.)
3. Four-Tier Shelf for keyboard and miscellaneous ($28)
Four-tier shelf, 43.7″ high. (Find it here.)
I pull the shelf out when I’m on the computer, and push it back under the shelf when I’m done.
I’m about 5′ 11″ tall. You want the keyboard to be high/low enough so that your forearms are parallel to the floor. If you are shorter, you can remove the bottom pegs from the shelving. There are also other 4-tier shelves with different height options.
4. Optional: Side Table ($15-20)
A side table is nice if you have a printer. I found mine at Walmart for $20. (Find it here.)
If you’re considering a standing desk, why not try this one!
*For the adventurous, try this more advanced version found at Start Standing.org.
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Brilliant idea! I’m going to have to try this out sometime! Thanks for sharing, Ryan. It’s a great solution that’s do-able (even for the tool-challenged like myself) and best of all, it’s inexpensive.
Andrea,
I have an iMac as well, and when I use the computer my face starts to feel flushed and my throats feels tight like holding back tears. I don’t use wifi or wireless mouse, but I realized the Bluetooth keyboard was still there. I guess that ‘s the cause! Will any wired keyboard be compatible?
…also What are the two other things on the shelf next to computer?
Portable DVD player and himalayan salt lamp.
I have a logitech and it works great.