It’s a brave new world of workplace stations, and the best standing desks must be considered from all angles, right down to the edges. That’s why, in this article, we’ll be comparing a contoured vs a rectangle standing desk. And if you’re interested in furthering your research for your office desk floor space, hop into our article that compares standing desk carpet flooring vs cement flooring.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- A contoured desk promotes ergonomic health and overall comfort.
- Rectangular desks have more space, are cheaper, and have smoother height adjustment.
- The curve shape offers more wrist room and can reduce carpal tunnel and wrist stress.
Differences Between a Contoured and a Rectangle Standing Desk
It may seem a useless point of concern, but a desk’s shape can be a critical detail for a productive workspace. A contoured edge, also known as a curved edged, is designed with comfort in mind while maintaining a sleek design. On the other hand, a traditional straight-edge or rectangular desk has a great classic look and provides slightly more space.
Insider Tip
If you already own a rectangular desk but want to try out the contour shape, you can purchase a keyboard tray with a curved shape that helps with wrist pain.
Given that there are advantages to both, we’re going to dive into the differences between the two, so you can decide what’s best for you. Alternatively, if you’re interested in the health benefits of your desk space, we have a resource covering bike desks vs standing desks.
Comfort
Having a rectangular desk can be hard on the wrists. Holding one’s wrists or forearms over a straight edge for an entire workday can not only be distracting or uncomfortable, but it can also be painful.
Curved edges provide more room for resting the wrists and are undoubtedly more comfortable than their rectangular counterparts.
Aesthetics
The look of the desk is a preference that depends on the desk’s owner, but each desk comes with its unique selling points.
Curved tables are a newer design and have a sense of novelty. In contrast, the rectangular shape can have a fuller and more classic aesthetic.
Size
If your equipment setup requires a lot of space, like room for a desktop or set of speakers, then a rectangular shape will usually offer higher square footage than curved options.
Health Benefits
Ergonomic edges, such as the contour, are excellent choices for those concerned with their workspace health. Many customers sing the praises of contoured desks, saying that they effectively remedied their carpal tunnel by allowing them to wrest their wrists throughout the workday. Of course, if you own a straight edge desk, you can buy a keyboard tray that acts like a contoured edge to ease the wrists throughout the day.
Cost
Curved desks often come at a higher cost, as they are more complicated to produce. For example, an affordable rectangular desk price begins at around $250, while a contoured desk starts at closer to $400.
F.A.Q.S
Does the shape of my standing desk matter at all?
Shape matters when it comes to space, and ergonomists promote optimal reach zones, which curved-edged desks promote.
Are curved desks more ergonomic?
Curved desks specifically attempt to address the ergonomic issues present in traditional standing desks.
Is a straight or curved desk better?
The preferred type of desk depends on the owner, but curved desks are better for ergonomic health.
STAT: People have reported a 32% reduction in lower back pain after using standing desks for a few weeks. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.flexispot.com/spine-care-center/Curved%20Desk%20vs%20Rectangle%20Desk%20What%20are%20the%20differences/
- https://store.hermanmiller.com/office-furniture-desks/jarvis-contour-bamboo-standing-desk/2542429.html?lang=en_US
- https://flexispot.co.uk/blog/Curved-Desk-vs-Rectangle-Desk-What-are-the-differences/r
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57a6o_6ahlM
- https://www.fully.com/rectangle-v-contour
