Why Are Computer Desks So Expensive These Days?

Whether you're looking for a new computer desk for work or play, you're going to discover one thing: computer desks are pretty expensive these days! Sure, you can find cheap little desks for under $100 - but as you'll soon find out, these end up costing you more in the long run. For a quality electric standing desk, you're going to have to shell out a pretty penny.

But, why are computer desks so expensive these days? Are they better than they used to be, or is this just another example of inflation at play?

Don't worry - in this complete guide, we're going to talk about the cost of computer desks - what you can expect to pay for different types, and why they aren't as cheap as they once were. We've got quite a bit to cover today so let's dive right in!

What Is The Average Cost Of A Quality Computer Desk?

first things first: what is the average cost of a quality computer desk? What should you reasonably expect to pay when upgrading your setup or investing in your first desk? The answer may surprise you if you've yet to begin your shopping journey. It can really catch you off guard if you haven't bought a desk before to find out what the true price is: anywhere from $500 all the way up to $2,000!

As we said, though - the price you pay will largely depend on the type of desk you're interested in buying. If you're looking for the best of the best when it comes to electric standing desks, you'll obviously pay more than the person shopping for a budget-friendly sitting desk. Let's evaluate the differences in desk types and their associated costs:

Breaking Down Cost By Different Types Of Desks: Standing vs Traditional

Standing desks are more expensive than traditional desks - no doubt about it. This should sort of go without saying when you factor in the cost of electric motors and the technology necessary to make the desk rise and fall at just the press of a button. But, things differ even further among these categories - there are electric standing desks and manual standing desks.

Electric Standing Desks vs Manual Standing Desks

Electric standing desks are the premier choice these days - you can raise and lower your desk to alternate between sitting and standing with just the push of a button. However, some people can't justify the higher price point. You can still enjoy the benefits of a stand-up desk without the excessive cost - that's where the manual standing desk comes in.

These work off a hand crank. Sure, it's a lot more work (and it's more inconvenient) to have to crank a lever each and every time you want to about your position. but you save a lot of money. Here is what you can expect to pay for each:

• Motorized Standing Desk: $400-2,000

• Manual Standing Desk: $200-400

What About Traditional Sitting Desks?

Maybe you don't care about standing up throughout the work day - or maybe you will only use the desk for gaming. Perhaps you don't even have the ability to stand up. In any of these cases, you may not even want a standing desk. So, your attention will shift towards analyzing the price of traditional sitting desks.

It's true - these are far more affordable, as they are pretty barebones. They don't have any technology integrated into them. What you see is what you get. Nevertheless, these have gotten pretty pricey in recent times, too. While they lack technology, they require more materials and are typically much larger and bulkier.

For a quality computer desk - even without stand-up capabilities - you can expect to pay anywhere from $150-300. If you want a desk with more storage space, roll-out keyboard trays, or an L-shaped desk, this figure rises even higher.

So - Why Are Computer Desks So Expensive These Days?

Ok - so what gives? Why are computer desks so expensive these days? There are quite a few causes for the spikes in the price you see when shopping for a computer desk nowadays.

First and foremost, technology has evolved and desks are more intuitive and sophisticated than they once were. Plus, materials have gotten better and so too has the craftsmanship - these two enhancements have led to spikes in price.

That's not all though - you'll enjoy long warranties on most desks. This is especially true if you go with a stand-up desk that has a motor in it. And while you'll enjoy peace of mind with this warranty, you do have to pay for it. Along with all of this you have to factor inflation into the equation. This phenomenon has led to increases in prices of just about everything. And more recently, demand has reached a level suppliers simply cannot keep up with. So, they've had no choice but to increase prices.

With all this said, let's take a deep dive into what you're really paying for when you see a price tag higher than what you expected on your new stand up desk.

Desks Are More Intuitive & Sophisticated Nowadays

Most people who invest in a new desk these days go with the standing desk approach - regardless of what they plan on using the desk for. Just having the ability to stand up if you wish is a huge benefit. If you're not convinced, check out our recent blog post: are standing desks good for you?

Long story short, standing desks help you:

• Eliminate tightness and soreness in the hips, back, and knees

• Burn calories while you work

• Achieve better posture

• Reduce mental fatigue and boost focus

But, some standing desks are even more intuitive than others. Take the EverDesk lineup, for example. These have an integrated health coach that actively nudges you when it is time to sit or stand. You can set intervals at which you'd like to alternate and the coach will remind you - keeping you at peak productivity while protecting your body and posture. Want to learn more about how standing desks work? We wrote an entire article on the subject.

Sounds amazing, right? You can see why these are the go-to choice these days. But, all this technology comes at a cost. Because desks are more intuitive and sophisticated, they cost more to make. And, manufacturers have to pay for the R&D costs in developing these incredible pieces of technology. As such, prices are higher. Well worth it in our mind, though!

Better Materials, Parts, & Craftsmanship

If you were to compare a desk from the earlier 2000s to a desk today, you'd see drastic changes in not just the appearance of the desk - but the quality materials and craftsmanship used, too. Standards for quality have gone way up. The materials used are more durable and lighter - all at the same time. Plus, we've gotten better at making these desks in recent years.

These advancements offer increases in the lifespan you get out of your desk. And, the likelihood of problems arising is far lower. Couple this with unprecedented craftsmanship and desks are better than they've ever been. It only makes sense that they are also now more expensive than they've ever been, right?

Customization Capabilities

Everyone is unique - and we all have our own unique preferences in a desk. Gone are the days of ordering a standardized, one-size-fits-all desk. Now, you can customize your desk to be exactly what you want it to be.

You can choose from a range of desk frame colors and you can even customize the tabletop of your desk. Choose from different types of looks like a classic glass top or a natural wood look. Dark walnuts or white oaks, you name it. Nothing is off-limits. You can even choose the actual size of your desktop - and add castors to your desk for easy maneuverability if you'd like!

All of this is great - we love that you can make your desk truly your own. But the more you customize your desk, the more you can expect to pay.

Most Desks Come With Long Warranties

We mentioned earlier that manufacturers have gotten better and better at bringing desks to life. This is great for you, the customer - because you stretch your investment further, getting years and years of reliable, heavy use out of your desk.

Even better? Any quality desk will come with a warranty to protect your investment. Should anything go wrong, you will never have to stress if you have that warranty to back it up. This grants you peace of mind in pulling the trigger on buying a new desk. Worst case, the manufacturer replaces your desk free of charge. However, this warranty also comes with a cost - and manufacturers factor it into their pricing.

You can spend less for a desk without a warranty - but you open yourself up to facing serious problems down the road.

Demand Is Higher Than Ever With The WFH Movement

Prices have risen pretty steadily over the years - until 2020. With the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw a huge shift in the global workforce. More and more people are working from home. And even as we start to shift back to a more open world, companies and employees alike are seeing the benefits of the WFH lifestyle. Thus, the demand for desks has skyrocketed. This has led to prices skyrocketing, too, as suppliers are swamped trying to keep up with this demand.

Inflation Has Skyrocketed Prices Across The Board

One final answer to the question, "what are computer desks so expensive?" is inflation. It's no secret that the cost of living goes up every year. In fact, inflation has risen dramatically in early 2022. The cost of everything - including desks - is going up. You can expect this trend to continue - 10 years from now, desks will very likely be more expensive than what they cost today.

Quality Computer Desks Are Expensive - But They Are Worth It!

Now that you know why computer desks are so expensive, you can start to justify the price tag they come with. Maybe you're still not convinced, though. Can't you just save some money and go with a cheaper desk? Are they really all that different from each other?

We want to leave you with a piece of advice. If you try to save money and cut costs by going with a cheap desk from a low-quality manufacturer, you end up paying more in the long run. You'll no doubt end up replacing the desk sooner. And, you won't get all the increases in lifestyle and productivity that a quality standing desk offers.

It's true - a quality standing desk is expensive. But, they're worth every penny. This is an investment in yourself. You're worth it - so don't be cheap!

Why Are Computer Desks So Expensive? Closing Thoughts

That concludes our breakdown of the most common question we get - why are computer desks so expensive?

Now, you know that the rise in costs is directly correlated to the advancements in technology and quality. And, they're in line with the rising inflation and demand we've seen in recent times. When it comes to investing in a standing desk, don't let the price tag scare you. These are worth the cost - there is no question. At least, when you get a quality adjustable computer desk from EverDesk+! These are proven to keep you healthier and more productive throughout the day. In fact, these are rated as the #1 adjustable standing desk in Singapore!

Take a look at the computers desks, gaming desks, and accessories we offer. You won't regret investing in an EverDesk+ - trust us.