Uplift E3 Compact Standing Desk Converter Review
- First Look
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Overview
| Review Summary |
The Uplift E3 Converter fits squarely into the “budget-friendly” category of standing desk converters while ineffectively creating a product to fulfill the consumer’s attempt to improve their functional ergonomics while working. Instead, the E3 Converter offers a highly portable desk exclusive to laptop users who likely won’t be standing long, nor are overly concerned about ergonomic pitfalls. |
|---|---|
| Best Use |
As a laptop desk at a temporary workstation (think local library or home dining table). |
| MSRP / List Price | $129.00 |
| Warranty |
15 years |
| Lift Type |
Pneumatic gas piston x-lift |
| Colors Available |
Black, white |
| Adjustment Range |
1″ to 16-3/4″ |
| Weight Capacity |
11 lbs |
| Dimensions |
26 3/4″ wide x 13.4″ deep x 1″ tall (collapsed) |
| Product Weight |
10.5 lbs |
| Shipping Weight |
12.5 lbs |
| ANSI/BIFMA Certified |
No |
| NEAT™ Certified by Mayo Clinic |
No |
| Competition |
Best X-Lift Standing Desk Converters Converters
|
| User Reviews | User Reviews on Amazon |
| Where to buy |
Buy on Amazon |
Rating
| Safety | |
|---|---|
| Reliability | |
| Customer Experience | |
| Quality and Aesthetics | |
| Ergonomics | |
| Innovation | |
| Value | |
| Positives | The E3 compact standing desk converter allows the on-the-go laptop user to convert any library or cafe table into a standing desk without cutting into the monthly discretionary budget. The soft-touch adjustment ability makes it easy to raise or lower. The 26-3/4 inch desktop space provides ample room for a laptop, mousepad, notepad and even a coffee mug. |
| Negatives | Let's start with weight capacity. This converter supports a maximum of 11 pounds. That rules out any type of standing computer monitor. It also lacks the ergonomic features, such as a keyboard tray, to really accentuate the reason for turning to a standing desk converter in the first place – improving your physical health. The x-lift operating system only offers three locking height positions. This converter won't suit users 6-feet or taller. |
Bottom Line
Though, the Uplift E3 Compact Standing Desk Converter is extremely affordable and rather sleek looking in its minimalist design, we were not impressed by either the functionality, nor the mechanics of its design. Not unexpected given its $129 price tag (Amazon has it listed at $149 as of 1/31).
Turning to this converter as a way of improving one’s ergonomic posture at work doesn’t make a whole lot of sense given the lack of a keyboard tray. Without providing a system that allows the user to keep his or her wrists in a straight line with their forearms eliminates any reason to look at this device as a means to better ergonomics.
A major issue also is the overall mechanics of the pneumatic x-lift spring system. As any x-lift operates, when the contraption folds lower and lower, the ability to hold the weight ends. That is simple physics and – thanks to the cheap gas piston – the E3 converter is also simply not a sturdy system. It will constantly “crash” down as the user collapses it.
Aside from “crashing,” the real problem here is the light support capacity. At just 11 pounds, even resting your forearms on this desktop, coupled with the weight of a laptop and a coffee mug, will make this converter drop out of its locked position. That makes it completely uncomfortable and annoying to use.
Easy to Handle
On the upside, thanks to Uplift anyone can find a standing solution to their sedentary professional lifestyle. Due to its lightweight configuration, this desk is highly portable. Going to a cafe, coffee shop or library? Bring the slim E3 along and suddenly you’re working from a standing position while enjoying a hot cup of Joe.
It’s also easy to handle. Uplift designed the E3 so that even the novice mechanical technicians can put it together because it comes ready to operate out of the box. The converter works with a small, gas-powered piston and spring system, allowing users to raise and lower the desk with a light touch. Being non-electric, there is no need to be near an outlet or deal with an annoying cable.
Laptops Only
Considering the 11-pound support capacity, this standing desk converter will not work with a free-standing monitor and desktop computer, let alone any monitor arm mounting system. This is a converter pointed to the mobile, work-wherever type looking to stand for a few hours per day.
The Details
The Uplift E3 Compact Standing Desk Converter features an x-lift pneumatic manual lifting design with three locking positions. The desk weighs 12.5 pounds, extends from 1” to 16 ¾”, offers 26 ¾” desktop space and comes in two colors: white or black. It can support up to 11 pounds in weight (as mentioned).
The Takeaway
It’s important to note the gentle nature in which the user in the advertisement video on Uplift’s web page is using this product. This isn’t a rugged, stable converter product that will stay at in its locked position as you work away on your laptop. The price point ($129 on Uplift) and weight capacity (11 pounds) should tell you that right away. But, if you have a small budget, desire the portability and like the sleek design, then by all means make the purchase. We advise buying on Amazon for the added peace of mind and customer protection given the company’s liberal return policy.
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