Member Avatar for pwolf

This is possibly a very strange question, and I'm not sure where to ask it! But is there anyone around that uses a standing desk or a treadmill desk, and can you tell us how it effects your productivity and your typing. Do you make more mistakes? Do you use a tramill when you're thinking, or reading? Does it make you more or less effective? I know it seems like a stupid question, but I am very serious, and very keen to find out peoples thoughts on the matter!

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Following ’s plan to try a freestanding monitor + keyboard arm instead of a full standing or treadmill desk, and building on points raised by and , here’s a compact, practical guide you can use before buying or mounting anything. It focuses on what actually matters for typing and workflow: stability, usable height range, keyboard position, and easy transitions between sitting and standing.

Key things to look for:

  • Mount type and footprint: clamp or grommet mounts are low-profile but need a desk edge; freestanding floor stands work on thin or rented desks without modification.
  • Monitor compatibility: confirm VESA pattern and the monitor weight vs the arm’s rated capacity; check reach and tilt range.
  • Keyboard platform: big enough for your keyboard and mouse, firm surface with low bounce, tilt that allows slight negative angle, and a removable/quick-release design if you share the desk.
  • Adjustment and durability: gas-spring or counterbalanced arms for smooth movement, torque/tension adjustment, and solid build/cable management.

Ergonomics and quick setup tips: measure desk thickness and monitor weight first. Set the monitor so the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level and about an arm’s length away. Adjust the keyboard height so your elbows sit at roughly 90 degrees with forearms parallel to the floor; keep the mouse on the same plane. Use an anti-fatigue mat for standing and start with short standing blocks (15-30 minutes), increasing as comfort improves.

Common problems and fixes: wobble — re-tighten clamps or choose a heavier base; monitor sag — increase gas tension or upgrade to a higher-capacity arm; tray too small — swap for a larger platform or use a laptop riser plus external keyboard. For maximum flexibility without committing to a full desk, an articulating monitor arm plus a removable keyboard platform usually gives the best balance of ergonomics, portability, and stability.

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Member Avatar for hericles

I've had a desk that could go from sitting height to standing at the push of a button and once I figured out the correct height to have the desk for standing and typing it was great. No adverse affects.
I really don't see how the same could be said for a treadmill desk...
I haven't even heard of them. Do they exist?

Member Avatar for rubberman

Linus Torvalds uses one, but keeps it at 1 mph, otherwise it interfers with his typing and train of thought. Myself, if I want to take a walk, I take a walk... :-)

Member Avatar for pwolf

I cant imagine myself walking while typing, but I guess I would have to give it a try! thanks for the replies!

Member Avatar for pwolf

I have decided to check into some kind of freestanding arm for a monitor and a keyboard, instead of a standing desk or treadmill desk, that way I can just adjust my setup to my current needs. Can anyone suggest any such devices? I know such things exist, as I have seen them before! Any help will be appreciated :)

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