This electric sit-to-stand desk has utterly transformed my WFH setup

Like 27% of the current U.S. workforce, I continue to work remotely — yet despite having years to hone my setup, my workstation had a ‘squatter with a laptop’ vibe. But after one too many nights cloaked in a heating pad because of aching, tense shoulders, I knew that it was time to make some significant office adjustments. I decided to try Secretlab’s MAGNUS Pro, a souped-up, sit-to-stand electric desk that allows for precise height adjustments with a simple push of a button. After using the desk for several weeks, I can report that not only has it helped me unlock better posture (and a noticeable downtick in my ibuprofen use), I also now have a vastly more pristine workspace. I’ve entered my ‘grown professional’ era.

Sleek, streamlined, and nary a cable in sight, this mechanical desk is like sitting behind a high-tech command station that also happens to be a minimalist’s dream; essentially, the perfect marriage of form and function.

Fast facts

• An electric sit-to-stand desk with precise height adjustments
• Features a sleek magnetic leatherette desk mat
• Equipped with a full-length cable management system for a cord-free workspace
• Ultra-durable metal frame with a weight limit of 265 pounds
• Comes with a mount for keeping your headset/headphones within reach
• Compatible with a suite of custom-engineered desk accessories
• Available in two sizes, standard (59.1 x 27.6 inches) and XL (70 x 31.5 inches)
• Intuitive instructions and included tools for easy installation

What is the MAGNUS Pro

The MAGNUS Pro is the latest drop from Secretlab, a gaming furniture company known for investing heavily in research and development and conducting relentless product testing to craft some of the most cutting-edge products around. The company even has an Ergonomic Advisory Board to ensure proper body alignment and postural support. The brand launched its first MAGNUS desk in 2021 to rave reviews — though it lacked height adjustability. Now, with the MAGNUS Pro, there is a sit-to-stand feature for even more ergonomic performance.

My experience with the MAGNUS Pro

Assembly

Delivered in several huge boxes, putting the heavy-duty desk together seemed daunting, but thanks to the detailed guide and user manual, it was actually much easier than anticipated — especially since the included tools were very well-made (which only demonstrated to me that the company wasn’t cutting corners anywhere). By far the most difficult part of the assembly process was the substantial weight of the components — which explains why the manual does specify that this is a two-person job. It should also be noted that while it didn’t take long to put the desk together, it did take more than the 15 minutes stated. I probably spent the most time getting the MAGPAD mat flush with the edges for perfect alignment with the desk.

First impressions

Once assembled, I had to step back and admire the craftsmanship of the piece. My previous desk setup was one marked with tangled cords, so I was especially impressed with the way the MAGNUS Pro was able to create such a clean slate. The integrated power supply column means that the cable for the desk itself gets run through one of the motorized legs, with a built-in socket under the desktop that powers your devices. Then all of your devices’ cables get stored in the top-mounted, hinged cable box that extends the entire length of the desk, so every cord is essentially out of sight. There’s nothing to clutter up your view, and that impeccable work surface is only enhanced by the sleek faux leather material of the MAGPAD.

If you really want to level up, there’s even an LED light strip add-on that allows for millions (not a typo!) of lighting options through the Nanoleaf app. I didn’t spring for this, but the voice-activation feature was tempting.

Functionality

The sit-to-stand functionality is basically flawless. Allowing for height adjustments from 26 inches to 49 inches, you can achieve the exact height you desire down to the millimeter. Thanks to this feature, I found myself integrating more movement into my workday; if I felt the urge to stand for even 10 minutes, I was popping up with the desk seamlessly following me. And since all your devices’ cords are stowed away in the cable box, when you do go from a sitting to standing position, you don’t have to worry about readjusting cords — they travel with you.

The control panel is part of the desk face, making for supremely easy maneuvering (for right-handed folks, that is. The brand confirmed no left-handed models are available at this time). The built-in panel indicates the current desk height, and up and down arrows allow for easy height toggling. There are also three memory positions for saving preferred sit or stand heights. This is where I started to really geek out over proper ergonomic positioning, following ergonomic best practices to ensure the top of my screen was at eye level and my arm’s were parallel with the floor.

Size

I have the standard MAGNUS Pro, which measures 59.1 by 27.6 inches (length by width), but there is also an extra-large MAGNUS Pro available if you need even more real estate. If you have a two-monitor setup, the standard size should be plenty, and you could even get three monitors across it if all monitors had a display size around 18.5 inches.

Is the MAGNUS Pro worth it?

While I heeded the calls for “self-care” in the form of candles and kitchen gadgets during the pandemic, I neglected to turn that attention to the area where I needed it most: my WFH workstation. With the MAGNUS Pro now in my life, I realize just how much of a difference ergonomics and proper alignment can make, not to mention what an impact a clutter-free workspace can have on how you feel when sitting down to work.

If you’re planning on working remotely for the foreseeable future and are up for the initial spend — and the MAGNUS Pro does come with a sizable price tag — this desk is a purchase you’ll appreciate day in and day out. Plus, if your achy body was anything like mine — it will thank you for finally getting your act together.

What other fans are saying

With more than 50,000 product reviews from customers all over the world, Secretlab is clearly making quality products designed to impress. Here are just a few of the standout reviews for the MAGNUS Pro from verified buyers.

“The best cable management out there. No mucking around with cable ties etc. Just super strong magnets that hide every single cable from view” - Andrew M

“Overall, the desk was incredibly easy to setup. The headphone hanger is an awesome accessory that allows you to place it in multiple different locations. Either on the front or the side of the desk absolutely love it! might even buy a second one.” - Bryan N.

“The desk is very easy to assemble. It meets all my expectations. It's sturdy and I know I can trust the quality of the material.” - Alexis D.

“Assembly is extremely simple, the desks are sturdy, and the cables have virtually disappeared. I don't think there is anything better on the market.” - Riccardo P.

“Absolutely thrilled with my Secretlab Magnus Pro desk pair with the Secretlab Omega Chair. Great set up for hours of working or gaming!” - Adam M.