Best Affordable Standing Desk in Canada

20 May 2025

Did you know that sitting for more than eight hours a day without physical activity can increase the risk of premature death by up to 60%? According to a study published in The Lancet, prolonged sedentary behavior is now considered as harmful as smoking. That's why standing desks have rapidly become a must-have item in modern home offices and workspaces. In Canada alone, the demand for ergonomic furniture—especially standing desks—has grown by over 40% year-over-year since 2020, driven by the shift to remote and hybrid work models. Brands like FlexiSpot, Desky, and MotionGrey are leading this transformation, offering innovative solutions that promote better posture, increased productivity, and long-term health benefits.

But which one offers the best standing desk for your money? In this guide, we'll take a close look at three of the most talked-about models:

FlexiSpot E5

Desky Single

MotionGrey Motion Series

Comparison of Key Features

Stability & Motor Performance

Stability is one of the most critical factors when choosing a standing desk, especially for users with heavy setups or precision-focused tasks. Two major elements influence a desk's stability: the weight of the frame and the number of telescoping segments (or "stages") in the legs.

A heavier frame typically means better materials and a wider crossbar, which provides more contact points with the desktop—leading to reduced wobble and better support. At the same time, three-stage legs are structurally more stable than two-stage ones. This is because three-stage legs have more overlap between segments, resulting in less play between the tubes and better performance at all heights. Obviously, the FlexiSpot E5's three-stage legs are superior to the Desky Single's two-stage legs as they offer more stability for users.

Weight Capacity

In terms of weight capacity, the FlexiSpot E5 standing desk clearly leads the pack with an impressive weight limit of 287 lbs. Not only does this mean it can support heavier setups—such as dual monitors, computer towers, or multiple accessories—but it also attests to the strength and durability of its motors. A greater weight capacity generally indicates a more powerful and robust motor, which translates into better long-term performance and less wear under stress. In contrast, the MotionGrey Motion Series standing desk supports up to 220 lbs., and the Desky Single tops out at 176 lbs., making them more suitable for lighter or minimalist setups. For users seeking both strength and durability, the E5 stands out as the most reliable option.

Height Adjustment & Controls

When it comes to height adjustability, the FlexiSpot E5 offers an adjustment range of 23.6" to 49.2", making it the most versatile among all three brands. This makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of users, be it shorter individuals or taller users who need a higher desk setup. In comparison, the MotionGrey Motion Series has a height adjustment range that ranges from 25" to 50", which is slightly taller at maximum height but with a higher starting point that may not suit shorter users. The Desky Single, with a range of 28.7" to 48.4", offers the most limited adjustment range, which may restrict ergonomic comfort for users seeking a lower seating position. Generally, it is not recommended for users under 5'6", but it does provide a comfortable standing position for users over 6'.

After-Sales Service & Warranty

Warranty is an important factor when assessing the overall value of a standing desk, especially for long-term use. The FlexiSpot E5 offers a five-year warranty on its frame, providing solid coverage that reflects the brand's confidence in its build quality. In contrast, the Desky Single comes with only a three-year warranty, which may be a drawback for users expecting long-term reliability. The MotionGrey Motion Series matches FlexiSpot's five-year standard but requires an additional C$8 to upgrade to a ten-year warranty coverage. While the option to upgrade is a nice touch, some buyers may find the extra cost to be unappealing. Overall, FlexiSpot delivers strong warranty coverage without added cost, making it a dependable choice for those prioritizing durability. As for shipping efficiency, both FlexiSpot and Desky offer same-day dispatch for orders placed before the daily cut-off time.

Conclusion

For budget-conscious buyers seeking a balance of performance, durability, and price, the FlexiSpot E5 stands out as the best overall option. With a starting price of C$299.99, it delivers exceptional value by offering dual motors, excellent frame stability, broad compatibility with different desktop sizes, and an industry-leading weight capacity of 287 lb. While the Desky Single and MotionGrey Motion Series standing desks have their own strengths, they either fall short in key areas or require additional costs for comparable features. For users looking to maximize value without sacrificing build quality or performance, the FlexiSpot E5 remains the smartest choice in this category.

FAQ

What is the best standing desk with drawers?

FlexiSpot offers a range of solutions such as the Comhar series standing desk and the Q8 standing desk to meet your storage needs. The latter's design has been recognized for its aesthetic excellence, having won both the International Design Award and the SIT Furniture Design Award.

If I don't have much money but still want to buy an L-shaped/corner standing desk, which model do you recommend?

FlexiSpot's E7L L-Shaped Standing Desk is the ultimate choice for both performance and design. It features a powerful triple-motor system with three legs, offering a wide height range from 25.0″ to 50.7″ and a robust weight capacity of up to 330 lb. Unlike most L-shaped desks on the market that use three-piece spliced desktops, the E7L comes with a simpler two-piece design that makes assembly easier, resulting in a sleek overall look. The price of the E7L starts at just C$599.99 for the frame, and depending on whether you opt for a chipboard or bamboo desktop, the price starts at C$759.99 and C$799.99 respectively.

How many days will it take to receive my order?

With over 20 self-operated warehouses across North America, FlexiSpot ensures same-day shipping and delivers to most locations within three to five business days.

Is a cable management tray included with the frame?

While the E5 and E7 Plus models require an additional purchase for a cable management tray (from C$49.99), the E7 and E7 Pro include a built-in cable tray for added convenience.

What is FlexiSpot's return policy?

Customers are free to return almost any item purchased from FlexiSpot within 30 days of receipt. A 30-day risk-free policy applies to all items. No restocking fee is applied for items returned in "like new" condition. No shipping fee is applied for the return of the item.

What materials are used for the desktop?

FlexiSpot desktops are available in chipboard and eco-friendly bamboo—an ideal option for those who prioritize sustainability.