As the boundaries between work and home continue to blur, the need for a comfortable and conducive work environment at home is more crucial than ever. Enter the MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk, a product that brings together the elements of versatility, durability, and practicality into one innovative solution. In this review, we will dive deep into its design, functionality, performance, features, other merits, and the few areas where it could use some improvement.
MotionGrey provided the Motion Series Standing Desk for review purposes. However, the following review, is based on an unbiased evaluation and does not reflect any influence from the company.
MotionGrey Standing Desk: Design & Build
The MotionGrey Motion Series desk is an eye-catcher with its sleek laminated tabletop and sturdy steel frame. Available in a variety of table top colors, including white marble, oak brown, and black oak, the desk seamlessly fits into any home office decor.
Furthermore, the steel frame itself has two color options to choose from: black and white. The desk’s minimalist design belies its versatile features and robust construction, making it an easy choice for those looking for both style and substance.
While the design is impressive, I do wish the company provided more color options and customizability. That being said, MotionDesk was kind enough to let me choose my review unit, which came in black for the steel frame and black oak for the tabletop, in the M size.
Robust Steel Frame
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk impresses right off the bat with its robust design. The desk is built around a sturdy steel frame, providing an assurance of stability and longevity that is critical in any office furniture.
The steel frame is not just robust but is also thoughtfully designed to suit even the L desk size. Its cleverly welded structure reinforces certain sections of the frame, adding to the desk’s overall strength and stability.
Dual Motor System
A standout feature of the MotionGrey desk is its dual motor system installed in each leg. This is a game-changer, allowing for smoother and quicker adjustments compared to desks with a single motor.
This feature is crucial in maintaining a fluid transition between sitting and standing positions. The motors are quiet, capable of adjusting the desk at a speed of 38 mm/s. Whether you’re working late into the night or starting early in the morning, the noiseless operation of the desk’s adjustment mechanism ensures that your focus remains undisturbed.
Desktop Material & Size
At the heart of the MotionGrey desk’s functionality is its laminated tabletop, built to withstand up to 230lbs or 104.3kg of weight. Whether you’re a minimalist with a laptop and a notebook or a tech enthusiast with multiple monitors, this desk can handle it all.
The desk comes in three sizes: S (Standard), M (Medium), and L (Large). The dimensions range from 47″ X 24″ in (120 x 61 cm) for the S size, 55” x 28” in (140 x 71 cm) for the M size, and 55” x 28” in (165 x 61 cm) for the L size.
This variety of sizes allows for flexibility in choosing a desk that best suits your workspace and needs. The S size is perfect for a laptop or a desktop computer, while the wide-spanning tabletop of the L can easily accommodate multiple monitors and a substantial amount of paperwork.
The M size serves as a decent middle-ground, while still being wide enough to accommodate a monitor or two. But I prefer the M desk for its extra 4 inches of depth, and ability to fit in compact spaces while being decently wide.
Stability & Durability: The Steel Frame
Supporting this desk is its sturdy steel frame, which ensures stability, regardless of the desk’s height or the load it bears. Welded to reinforce certain sections, the frame provides the firm foundation that a standing desk requires. The reinforced steel base adds another layer of support, making sure the desk stays firm and stable, even when fully extended.
The only potential concern regarding durability is that the tabletop does not come with pre-drilled holes, which could potentially impact its stability if not drilled accurately. However, the assembly instructions include the measurements for drilling the holes yourself, which should mitigate this concern.
I have not been able to fully assess the durability of the electric components due to the limited time I have had the desk for. Testing factors such as motor longevity takes years of usage to determine the quality. Therefore, I would recommend further research or contacting the manufacturer directly for more detailed information regarding the lifespan and maintenance of the desk’s electric components.
Assembly: A DIY Affair
To aid users in assembling their MotionGrey standing desk, the manufacturers have included a user-friendly instruction booklet. The instructions are mostly intuitive and simple to follow, enabling a seamless and stress-free setup.
However, some instructions did leave confused occasionally, with diagrams not fully showing the assembly step. Although installing electrical components may initially seem daunting, the installation manual is designed to make the process simple and straightforward.
One potential drawback is that the tabletop does not come with pre-drilled holes, but like I mentioned earlier, the instructions include the measurements to drill them yourself. This may add an additional step to the assembly, but it also allows for a level of customization and flexibility in aligning the frame to the tabletop to suit individual preferences.
For me, not having pre-drilled holes complicated the assembly, I had to hire a third-party with a power drill to come help me finish the assembling process and drill the holes, since I am not experienced with drills and I do not own one either.
Functionality
Digital Memory Keypad
The MG-1 digital memory keypad is another standout feature. It not only displays the desk’s height but also allows you to record and recall your preferred desk height settings.
With up and down buttons and four programmable presets, you can easily adjust your desk to the perfect height with the touch of a button. The keypad’s position on the edge of the desktop, within easy reach but not taking up workspace, reflects thoughtful design.
Height Adjustment & Dual Motors
What sets the MotionGrey desk apart from its competitors is its innovative dual motor system and the MG-1 digital memory keypad. Each leg of the desk is equipped with a motor, allowing for smoother and faster adjustments compared to single-motor competitors.
The dual motors allow the desk to ascend and descend quietly at a speed of 38 mm/s, ideal for late-night or early-morning work sessions, making height adjustments a delight.
Speaking of height adjustment, it is arguably the most important aspect of any standing desk, and MotionGrey has ensured that this feature is both versatile and easy to use. The desk height ranges from 23.6″ – 49” (60 cm to 125 cm), accommodating a variety of sitting and standing positions. This makes it an ideal choice regardless of your height or the space available in your office.
Performance
Smoothness and Speed of Height Adjustment
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk truly excels in terms of its height adjustment capabilities. Thanks to its innovative dual motor system, this desk offers an impressively smooth and swift transition between sitting and standing positions.
The synchronized movement of the dual motors ensures that the desk moves evenly and without any noticeable jerks or wobbles. Whether you prefer a gradual adjustment or a quick switch, the desk responds promptly to your commands, allowing you to find your desired height effortlessly.
The speed of the height adjustment is equally commendable, with the desk capable of ascending and descending at a rate of 38 mm/s. This rapid adjustment speed not only saves you valuable time but also enables you to swiftly adapt to different working postures throughout the day.
Noise Levels During Operation
One of the standout features of the MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk is its remarkably quiet operation. The dual motor system is designed to minimize noise, ensuring that your work environment remains undisturbed and conducive to focus.
Whether you’re making height adjustments during late-night work sessions or in a shared office space, the desk’s low noise levels ensure that you won’t disrupt others around you.
The motors operate smoothly and efficiently, emitting only a gentle hum that is barely noticeable. This noise reduction feature enhances the overall user experience and contributes to a more tranquil and productive workspace.
Health and Productivity
Side note: Since I am not a healthcare expert, I suggest performing your own research to understand the effects of long-term sitting or the benefits of a standing desk. This review makes no healthcare claims.
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk prioritizes both the health and productivity of its users. By offering the flexibility to switch between sitting and standing positions, this desk promotes a healthier and more ergonomic workstyle.
Prolonged sitting has been linked to various health issues, such as back pain and reduced circulation, but with this desk, you can easily alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, helping to alleviate these concerns.
The wide height range accommodates users of varying heights, ensuring that everyone can find their optimal ergonomic position. Additionally, the MotionGrey desk incorporates a digital memory keypad, which not only displays the desk’s height but also allows you to save and recall your preferred height settings.
This feature enhances convenience and efficiency, enabling you to effortlessly transition to your desired height with just a push of a button. Whether you have specific height preferences for different tasks or multiple users sharing the desk, the digital memory keypad simplifies the adjustment process and saves valuable time.
Moreover, by promoting regular posture changes and reducing sedentary behavior, this desk helps improve blood circulation, boost energy levels, and enhance focus and productivity. The ability to customize the desk’s height according to individual preferences and task requirements allows for a personalized and optimized working experience.
Ergonomics
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk places a strong emphasis on ergonomic design, prioritizing the well-being and comfort of its users. With a range of features dedicated to promoting proper posture and reducing strain on the body, this desk ensures that you can work for extended periods without sacrificing your health.
Height Adjustability for Customization
One of the key aspects of ergonomics is the ability to adjust the desk’s height to suit individual preferences and body proportions. The MotionGrey desk excels in this regard, offering a wide height range.
This extensive adjustability caters to users of various heights, allowing you to find the perfect position that promotes good posture and reduces strain on your back, neck, and shoulders. Whether you prefer working while sitting or standing, the desk can be easily adapted to your preferred height, ensuring optimal comfort and minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal issues.
Versatile Working Positions
With the MotionGrey standing desk, you have the freedom to choose between sitting and standing positions, promoting postural variation throughout your workday.
By alternating between sitting and standing, you can prevent the negative effects of prolonged sitting, such as muscle stiffness and reduced blood circulation. This desk encourages movement and encourages you to adopt healthier work habits, boosting your energy levels and enhancing your overall well-being.
Sturdy and Stable Construction
Another crucial aspect of ergonomics is the stability of the desk. The MotionGrey desk’s robust steel frame provides a solid foundation, ensuring stability even at its highest position. The reinforced steel base adds an extra layer of support, preventing any wobbling or shaking while you work.
This stability is essential, as it allows you to focus on your tasks without any distractions or concerns about the desk’s durability. Whether you are typing vigorously or leaning on the desk for support, you can rely on its sturdy construction to provide a secure and reliable workspace.
Ample Work Surface and Cable Management
Ergonomics is not limited to just the height and stability of the desk. It also involves optimizing the work surface for efficient and comfortable use.
The MotionGrey desk offers generous desktop space, accommodating multiple monitors, a laptop, and additional accessories. This ample surface area allows you to organize your workstation effectively, keeping all your essential tools within easy reach.
Furthermore, the desk incorporates thoughtful cable management features. Tangled cables can not only create a cluttered appearance but also pose tripping hazards. The MotionGrey desk addresses this concern with cable management grommets and channels that help keep your cables neatly organized and out of the way. This not only contributes to a cleaner and more visually pleasing workspace but also eliminates potential distractions and hazards, further enhancing your ergonomic experience.
Pricing
When it comes to investing in a standing desk, pricing is a crucial factor to consider. The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk offers a compelling balance between its features, performance, and cost, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking a high-quality standing desk without breaking the bank.
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk offers a range of size options to accommodate different workspace needs. Here are the pricing details for each size variant based on the information provided:
- Size S: The small size variant of the MotionGrey Motion Series desk is priced at 499.99 Canadian Dollars. This size is suitable for those with limited space or those who primarily work with a laptop or a single monitor setup.
- Size M: The medium size variant, which you mentioned owning, is priced at 529.99 Canadian Dollars. This size provides a larger work surface compared to the small variant, but serves as a decent middle ground, allowing for additional workspace and accommodating multiple monitors or other accessories. The M size is my favorite as it fits in smaller spaces and provides additional depth.
- Size L: The large size variant is priced at 599.99 Canadian Dollars. This size offers the most expansive work surface among the available options, making it ideal for those who require ample space for multiple monitors, paperwork, or other equipment.
MotionGrey offers flexible pricing options to accommodate a range of budgets and needs. With different sizes available, including Standard, Medium, and Large, you can choose the desk that best fits your workspace requirements and budget constraints. The variety of sizes ensures that there is an option for everyone, whether you have limited space or need a more expansive work surface.
Conclusion
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk combines a host of impressive features with a thoughtful design to create a versatile and ergonomic workspace solution.
With its robust steel frame, dual motor system, ample work surface, and customizable height adjustments, this standing desk offers a range of benefits that enhance both productivity and well-being.
Key Features and Benefits Recap
- Robust Steel Frame: The sturdy steel frame provides stability and durability, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting workspace.
- Dual Motor System: The dual motor system allows for smooth and quick height adjustments, promoting seamless transitions between sitting and standing positions.
- Ample Work Surface: The desk offers generous space to accommodate multiple monitors, laptops, and other essential work tools, promoting an organized and efficient workstation.
- Customizable Height: The extensive height adjustability allows users to find their optimal working position, supporting good posture and reducing strain on the body.
- Ergonomic Design: The desk’s ergonomic features, including versatile working positions, cable management solutions, and a digital memory keypad, contribute to a comfortable and health-conscious work environment.
The MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk impresses with its blend of functionality, durability, and value for money. The robust construction and thoughtful design ensure stability and longevity, while the dual motor system and customizable height adjustments provide smooth and effortless transitions. The desk’s ergonomic features promote proper posture and comfort, ultimately enhancing productivity and overall well-being.
This desk is an excellent choice for individuals who value both quality and affordability. It is well-suited for a range of users, including remote workers, professionals, students, and anyone seeking to improve their work environment.
The desk’s size options cater to different workspace requirements, making it suitable for those with limited space as well as those in need of a larger work surface. Whether you work primarily with a laptop, multiple monitors, or a combination of devices, this desk can accommodate your needs.
In conclusion, the MotionGrey Motion Series Standing Desk offers a compelling package of features, durability, and value. With its ergonomic design, customizable options, and competitive pricing, it provides an excellent investment for creating a comfortable and productive workspace. Consider the MotionGrey Motion Series standing desk to elevate your work experience and prioritize your well-being.
