Flat Top vs Two-Tier Standing Desk

When shopping for a standing desk, one of the first things you might notice is that there are two distinct types:

• The first type features a large, single desktop
• The second type features a split desktop that consists of two smaller sections arranged in tiers. In this configuration, there’s a lower tier in front and a raised tier in the rear.

When choosing the best ergonomic standing desk for you, it’s important to understand the advantages of both flat top and two-tier models so you can make an educated purchase decision.

In this blog article, we’ll discuss all of the above and also talk briefly about a third option that can offer the best of both worlds.

Want to learn more? Read on.

When to Choose a 2-Tier Standing Desk

1. When You Use a Separate Keyboard, Mouse, and Monitor(s)  

The primary intent of a 2-tier sit and stand desk is to achieve ideal ergonomics and comfort.

As outlined in our Guide to Better Posture, when you can independently set the keyboard, mouse, and monitor(s) at the proper heights, it’s easier to maintain a straighter back, neck, and wrists while keeping your elbows at a comfortable 90-degree angle.

To accomplish this, however, you typically need a desk that can raise the monitor a few inches above the desktop. That’s where having a split-level desktop comes in handy.

As such, if you have a traditional desktop computer or if you have a laptop with a separate keyboard, mouse, and monitor(s), a two-tier desk is worth a look.

2. When You Want an All-In-One Solution

Since a two-tier stand up desk comes with optimum ergonomics built into the design, you can just put one together and start working.

This quality makes them great for people who don’t want to purchase additional accessories like a monitor riser or keyboard tray.

Does a Two-Tier Desk sound right for you? Check out our crank and electric models.

When to Choose a Flat Top Standing Desk

1. When You Strictly Use a Laptop Computer 

Since a laptop’s keyboard and screen are attached to each other, it negates the advantage of having a two-tier desk surface.

So, if you do all your computing on a laptop, you might as well take advantage of the extra space offered by a flat-top desk. That way, you’ll have more room for your paperwork, photos, stapler, and other desktop items.

2. When You Want to Accessorize to Create a Custom Solution

Many standing desk users see a flat top desk as a blank canvas for them to customize and make their own.

Whereas a typical two-tier desk has a fixed height, non-adjustable second tier, a flat top model gives you the option to add an adjustable monitor shelf or adjustable monitor arm that allows for fine-tuning of the screen height to perfectly suit the user.

The same customization is also possible for the wrists and hands with an adjustable height keyboard tray.

Does a Flat Top Desk sound right for you? Check out our crank and electric models.

What to Choose When You Want the Best of Both Worlds

In the intro section of this blog article, we mentioned a third option that potentially can give you a no-compromise solution.

We’re referring to a hybrid flat-top/two-tier desk. This desk offers a split top with a height adjustable second tier.

It lets you set the front and rear sections flush with each other to give you a flat-top desk.

Or you can set the rear section above the front section to create a two-tier model. And since the rear section can be set at 1.75”, 3.5”, or 5.25” above the front, there’s sure to be a setting that works perfectly for you.

We hope you found this article helpful! Still need help finding the right desk for you? Try our Workspace Matchmaker Tool and after a few short questions, we’ll provide our top recommendation.