The 5 Best Mobile Computer Workstations [Ranked]
Mobile computer work stations, often known as standup computer desk stations, are a portable and ergonomic solution to the traditional, stationary computer work desk.
They come in different styles- some have height-adjustable monitor mounts like the Balt Beta, while others like the Techni Mobili computer workstation prioritize pull-out shelving for storing printers, keyboards and other computer accessories.
In all, these mobile computer work stations offer the convenience of portability, the ergonomic comfort of a standup work desk, and the flexibility to adjust to your height.
All of the mobile workstations we have reviewed are height-adjustable, though stylistically the Balt mobile computer cart is the most distinct- with its long-mount, center post that enables monitor panning and tilting.
Contents
Our Top Pick: The Techni Mobili Mobile Desk
- 𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇 𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐇 𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐄: The high-tech compact desk has heavy-duty engineered wood panels with a moisture-resistant PVC laminate veneer which maintains its durability
Our top pick, however, is the 31 lb., Techni Mobili mobile desk- it features locking casters, a ridiculously small footprint, an adjustable monitor and printer shelf, a pull-out keyboard tray, powder-coated steel construction, and a five year limited warranty.
One user says that their 27" iMac fits nicely atop his mobile workstation, with plenty of space to spare- and it enables him when working from home to move his computer workstation fromm the living room to the bedroom when company comes over.
Assembling The Techni Mobli
The consensus is that it takes under an hour to put together- with the most difficult part being the assembly of the metal side panels -it really helps if you have somebody there to assist you when assembling it.
It does include a small metal wrench and screwdriver when it ships- so you don't need any extra tools to put it together.
Users especially endorse how little space it takes up- ensuring that the work area remains largely clutter-free.
All that said, let's take a look at five of the best-selling mobile computer workstations on the market today and see how they compare.
Comparing Them
Mobile Computer Workstations | Our Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
The Techni Mobili Mobile Computer Workstation Desk | 4.6 | $ | |
The Stand Up Desk Store Stand up Desk Computer Workstation | 4.6 | $$ | |
The Balt Beta Mobile Workstation Cart | 3.7 | $$$ | |
The Stand Up Desk Store Shelved Stand Up Desk Computer Workstation | 4.4 | $$ | |
The Safco Products 'Muv' Stand-Up Computer Workstation | 4.3 | $$$ |
The Five Best Mobile Computer Workstations
Effectiveness
Price
Ease of Use
The 34 lb., 31 x 23.5 x 41 inches, portable Techni Mobili computer desk has an efficient design with adjustable shelving and ample storage space. Its users admire that it moves easily on Non-Marking Durable Nylon Wheels with locking casters, but also note that all of its weight is placed on the back wheels. Made of MDF Wood with a scratch resistant steel frame, this desk is durable and resilient to water stains.
This low-cost computer workstation is a suitable option if you are looking for a well-organized setup.
Most of the customer feedback indicated that the assembly instructions were straightforward and that the desk was easy to put together, although some users complained that the provided screwdriver was not sufficient for all of the screws. The adjustable shelving accommodates a variety of hardware sizes and fits well in smaller work areas.
Several users noted that a vertical mouse and mousepad would not fit on the same shelf as the keyboard, but were still impressed by the other features of the setup.
Pros
- Adjustable shelving on top and bottom rows
- Compact setup that transports easily from one room to another
- Stain resistant wood
- Sturdy parts that support different sizes of hardware
Cons
- Confusing assembly instructions that may require more than one person
- Weight is dispersed unevenly on back wheels
- Computer mouse must reside on shelf above keyboard
Effectiveness
Price
Ease of Use
The 51 lb., 28.8″ x 31.5″ x 46.1″ Stand Up Desk Store computer workstation is a good setup that promotes health benefits from its two tier shelf design.
Its users appreciate the adjustable height settings, but also note that changing the height is not a simple task. The two wide shelves accommodate a large computer monitor and keyboard and can be adjusted together at 1” increments.
This alternative desk setup is an efficient option if you are looking to improve your posture, decrease back and neck pain, and increase productivity.
The general user consensus regarding the Stand Up Desk was that the health benefits were substantial and immediate for improving posture and reducing back pain.
The two-tiered shelf setup provides ample space for wider computer monitors and storage. Adjustments can be made to sit or stand, although many users reported that the process was slow and often required more than one person. This stand up workstation, others noted, accommodates taller individuals and can be adjusted to proper viewing height.
Pros
- Two tiered shelving with wide surface area and adjustable height
- Health benefits from using the desk while standing
- Two locking brakes to lock desk into place
- Durable powder coat paint finish
- Sit and stand options
Cons
- Difficult and time consuming to adjust height
Effectiveness
Price
Ease of Use
The 70 lb., 33″ x 32″ x 67″ Balt Beta Workstation is a well-designed mobile cart that allows its users to sit or stand while they work. Its users like that the cart has an angled laptop and keyboard shelf, but also note that the mouse pad that rotates out is too small for a larger mouse.
The CPU holder has two clamps that secure it in place and the clips on the center post keep any hardware cables together. This workstation is a good option for an efficient and organized cart.
Most of the customers agreed that the Bala Beta Sit Stand Workstation was easy to assemble and that the instructions were simple. The monitor mount permits up to a 22-inch monitor and offers 35 degrees tilt for optimal viewing.
Users enjoy the angled keyboard and laptop shelves, but some complained that the swivel mouse pad is too small and inconvenient. However, the cart is easy to move and ideal for a workplace that utilizes different rooms for viewing the monitor.
Video Overview
Pros
- Wide shelves for computer monitor and keyboard
- Health benefits from using the desk while standing
- Cable management cords to keep cords together
- Sit and stand options
Cons
- Small mouse pad
- Difficult to adjust height
Effectiveness
Price
Ease of Use
The 76 lb., 28.8″ x 47.2″ x 46.1″ Mobile Stand-Up Workstation is a good option that promotes health benefits such as improved posture, decreased neck and back pain, better productivity and a smaller waistline. Its users love the 48” shelf that can hold two Acer computer monitors if necessary, as well as a keyboard and mouse on the shelf beneath it.
However, the assembly can be confusing and not detailed very well. This moveable cart is a good option if you are looking for a large, mobile workstation.
The general user consensus regarding the Ergonomic Stand Up Workstation is that it is a very sturdy setup with a 47” work surface, 14” deep top shelf and a 16” deep lower shelf.
The ability to stand while working at this desk encourages a higher level of productivity and can lead to better posture. Users noted that it is not easy to adjust the height because it must be unscrewed to do so, but the almost 5” of separation between the shelves provides ample height for viewing the computer monitor while using the keyboard.
Pros
- Wide shelves for computer monitor and keyboard
- Health benefits from using the desk while standing
- Sit and stand options
- Plenty of space between shelves
Cons
- Difficult to adjust height
- Confusing directions
Effectiveness
Price
Ease of Use
The 60 lb., 22″ x 29.5″ x 49″ Muv Stand Up Workstation is a suitable option that offers two shelves for a computer monitor and keyboard, as well as two shelves beneath them for storage.
Its users love that it has a sturdy steel frame construction with a durable powder coat finish on its laminate top surface. However, according to some reviewers, the height is not easy to adjust from sitting to standing. The desk adjusts from 35” for sitting up to 49” for working while standing.
This mobile workstation is a solid option if you are looking for an efficient adjustable height computer desk for sitting or standing.
The majority of feedback from reviewers states that the desk is very sturdy and the instructions are easy to follow. The molded side panels are effective for hiding any loose wires or cables from the computer monitors or other hardware placed on the desk or shelves.
Some users observed that the height is not easy to adjust for one person, but the four dual wheel carpet casters help to keep it in place at all times while adjusting it.
Video Overview
Pros
- Health benefits from using the desk while standing
- Sit and stand options
- Shelves underneath for storage
- Decorative side panels for hiding cables
- Simple directions
Cons
- Difficult to adjust height
Buying Guide
Mobile computer desk stations are innovative and highly ergonomic work solutions for your home office or even your corporate job. Besides being portable, the option to stand helps to promote better working posture, potentially reducing pain associated with extended office-chair sitting.
Paired with a comfortable sofa, the two can make for a tasteful and functional home office.
Health benefits of standing desks
Users reports postural enhancements, the reduction of neck and back pain, improved blood flow and circulation, decreases in sciatic nerve compression, as well as a general loosening of tightened hamstrings.
Indeed, medical research has demonstrated that there are scientifically proven benefits to using a standing desk. Authoritynutrition.com has listed out some interesting benefits that include the reduction of your risk for obesity and weight gain, lowering of blood sugar levels, reduction of heart disease risk, decreases in back pain complaints, enhanced energy and mood levels, boosted productivity, and even a general increase in life-span.
In general, it seems that reducing the time you spend in sedentary positions can have dramatic benefits to your metabolic, physical and mental faculties.
The Smithsonian points to research that the average corporate office worker spends 5 hours and 41 minutes every single day seated at their desk- they also examine and dispute evidence that you can sit all day long, do some strenuous exercise, and even out the negative health effects of having been sedentary for the majority of your day.
It would seem that the general consensus is that you should intersperse your traditional workday with sitting and standing- which is why a mobile computer workstation and standing desk is a modern solution to the problem of sedentary work lifestyles.
User feedback
Interestingly, one reviewer has described combining his ergonomic, standup desk with a treadmill- this enables him to get a great deal of exercise as he accomplishes his work-day tasks. Another user recommends purchasing a fatigue mat- which lets you stand on a comfortable and forgiving surface, making the stand-up desk experience that much more comfortable.
One of the overlooked benefits of these mobile workstations is that the typically small surface area forces you to clean up all the clutter that usually compromises a larger, traditional desk surface. Indeed, those who have purchased one of these portable computer workstations have enjoyed their portability, the benefits they provide to their physical and mental well-being, as well as boosted productivity levels.
Final thoughts
If you are in the market for a mobile workstation cart, check out our comparison table at the top of the page, examine the product pages, as well, to get a sense of what other users are saying about the mobile work desks that they purchased.