The Short Answer
Electric standing desks produce noticeable noise during adjustment, but it's brief (5-15 seconds) and usually not disruptive. Most modern motors run between 40-55 decibels—roughly the volume of a normal conversation or a refrigerator humming. Once the desk stops moving, there's no noise at all.
Understanding Decibel Levels
To put standing desk noise in context:
| Sound | Decibels (dB) |
|---|---|
| Whisper | 30 dB |
| Quiet room | 35-40 dB |
| Standing desk motor (quiet) | 40-45 dB |
| Normal conversation | 50-55 dB |
| Standing desk motor (average) | 45-55 dB |
| Air conditioning unit | 55-60 dB |
| Vacuum cleaner | 70-75 dB |
What Affects Standing Desk Noise
Motor Quality
Better motors run quieter. Premium brands often use motors specifically engineered for low noise. Budget desks may use louder motors—not deafening, but noticeably more present.
Single vs. Dual Motors
- Single motor: Often quieter overall (one motor, less total noise)
- Dual motors: Can be louder (two motors), but premium dual motors can be very quiet
The quality of the motor matters more than the quantity. A cheap dual-motor desk may be louder than a quality single-motor desk.
Load Weight
Heavier loads make motors work harder, which increases noise. A desk lifting 150 lbs will be louder than the same desk lifting 50 lbs.
Desk Age and Maintenance
Motors may get louder over time. Proper assembly and occasional maintenance (ensuring bolts are tight) can help maintain quiet operation.
Noise by Desk Type
Electric Standing Desks
- Noise level: 40-55 dB during adjustment
- Duration: 5-15 seconds per adjustment
- At rest: Silent (no noise when stationary)
Most adjustment happens between sitting and standing, which is a few times per day for typical users. The total daily "noise time" is usually under a minute.
Manual Crank Desks
- Noise level: Minimal—light mechanical sound
- Duration: 15-40 seconds per adjustment
- At rest: Silent
If noise is your primary concern, manual desks are nearly silent. The cranking makes a slight mechanical whir, but it's very quiet.
Pneumatic/Gas-Spring Desks
- Noise level: Very low—soft hiss
- Duration: 2-5 seconds per adjustment
- At rest: Silent
These make a brief pneumatic sound (like an office chair adjusting) but are among the quietest options.
When Noise Actually Matters
On Video Calls
Adjusting during a call will be audible to others. Most people simply avoid adjusting while actively speaking. The desk can be adjusted during pauses, muted portions, or between calls without issue.
Shared Office Spaces
In very quiet shared spaces, adjustment noise is noticeable but not disruptive. It's comparable to someone rolling a chair or closing a drawer—brief and unremarkable.
Apartment Living
Neighbors typically won't hear your desk through walls. The motor vibration is minimal and short-duration. If you're concerned, place anti-vibration pads under the desk legs.
Recording Audio/Video
Don't adjust during recording. Even quiet motors are picked up by microphones. This is rarely an issue—you'd naturally set your desired height before recording.
How to Minimize Standing Desk Noise
Buy Quality
Research noise levels in reviews before purchasing. Premium desks often advertise their decibel ratings. Budget doesn't always mean loud, but it's more variable—check specific model reviews.
Ensure Proper Assembly
- Tighten all bolts fully
- Ensure the frame is level
- Check that nothing is rubbing or catching during movement
Use Anti-Vibration Pads
Place rubber or felt pads under desk feet to reduce vibration transfer to the floor. This particularly helps in apartments with hard floors.
Don't Overload
Stay well under the weight capacity. Motors strain less with lighter loads, running quieter and lasting longer.
Timing
Adjust during natural breaks—between calls, while music is playing, when others aren't in moments requiring silence.
Noise Over Time
Motors may become slightly louder with age, but quality motors maintain reasonable noise levels for years. Sudden increases in noise can indicate:
- Loose bolts or fittings (check assembly)
- Something obstructing movement
- Worn motor components (contact manufacturer if under warranty)
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlikely. Standing desk motor noise is brief and not particularly loud or bass-heavy. Through typical apartment walls and floors, it won't be noticeable. Walking around your apartment is more audible to neighbors than adjusting your desk.
In the same room, possibly. In another room with the door closed, probably not. If you work while others sleep, consider adjusting the desk before/after sleeping hours, or use manual/pneumatic options for near-silent operation.
Quality motors maintain relatively consistent noise levels over their lifespan. Slight increases can occur, but dramatic changes usually indicate an issue (loose hardware, obstruction) rather than normal wear.
Premium brands often advertise noise levels (look for sub-45 dB ratings). However, many mid-range brands now use quality quiet motors. Check individual model reviews rather than assuming based on brand alone. See our brand guide for options known for quiet operation.