How we rank products

Every ranking on this site is calculated, not hand-picked. Here is the whole method.

1. Specs come from the manufacturer

We enter only figures the manufacturer publishes and link the page we used under every product. If a figure isn't published we show "Not listed" instead of guessing.

2. Each spec is scaled from 0 to 1

Each criterion has a fixed reference range, from a "weakest reasonable" value to a "best in class" value (for example 250 to 400 lb of rated user weight for office chairs). A product's figure is placed on that range and clamped between 0 and 1, so scores stay meaningful as products are added. For specs where lower is better, such as a desk's lowest height, the range runs the other way. Yes/no features count as 1 or 0. The ranges are listed below.

3. Weights decide what matters most

Each category lists its criteria and weights on the page. The score is the weighted average, multiplied by 10:

score = 10 × Σ(weight × scaled value) ÷ Σ(weight)

4. How missing data is scored

If a spec isn't published (for example a desk's lift speed or a chair's seat height range), the product scores at the lowest value any product in that category actually published, so an unpublished figure never outranks a published one. The page marks each such cell with an asterisk. Yes/no features that aren't stated count as no. Nothing is ever scored at the category average.

5. Prices and ratings switch on automatically

When our retailer feeds supply a current price or customer rating for at least 60% of products in a category, two more criteria join the formula: Price / value (20%) and Customer rating (15%, discounted when there are few reviews). Until then we show "Check price" and never estimate a price.

6. What the score can't tell you

Specs don't capture comfort, wobble, noise, build quality or support. Desk height ranges are measured with a desktop by some makers and without by others (noted on each product), which is why we also score total travel. Lift capacity uses the dynamic (lifting) figure where a maker gives both. Steelcase dimensions come from Steelcase's own shop in millimetres and are converted to inches. Chair weight ratings and warranties are each maker's own figures; a lifetime warranty scores the same as 15 years. Use the score to shortlist, then read the pros, cons and sources. When we add hands-on testing notes, we label them clearly.

7. Money never changes the order

We earn affiliate commissions from some retailers. Commission rates are not an input to the formula, and no brand can pay for placement. See our affiliate disclosure.

Criteria by category

Standing Desks

Lift capacity: 25% · range 130 → 535 lb
Height travel: 15% · range 15 → 30 in
Minimum height: 10% · range 31 → 22 in
Maximum height: 10% · range 43 → 52 in
Motor count: 10% · range 1 → 4
Lift speed: 10% · range 0.7 → 2.3 in/s
Frame warranty: 15% · range 2 → 15 yr
Anti-collision: 5% · yes/no

Ergonomic Office Chairs

Weight capacity: 25% · range 250 → 400 lb
Warranty length: 20% · range 1 → 15 yr
Seat depth adjustment: 15% · range 0 → 3.5 in
Maximum seat height: 10% · range 19 → 22.5 in
Minimum seat height: 10% · range 19 → 15.5 in
Armrest adjustments: 10% · range 0 → 6 D
Adjustable lumbar: 5% · yes/no
Forward tilt: 5% · yes/no

Gaming Chairs

Weight capacity: 30% · range 250 → 400 lb
Warranty length: 20% · range 1 → 15 yr
Seat depth adjustment: 15% · range 0 → 3.5 in
Maximum seat height: 10% · range 19 → 22.5 in
Minimum seat height: 10% · range 19 → 15.5 in
Armrest adjustments: 15% · range 0 → 6 D
Adjustable lumbar: 5% · yes/no

Monitor Arms

Max monitor weight: 35% · range 15 → 42 lb
Max screen size: 15% · range 24 → 49 in
Height adjustment: 20% · range 8 → 14 in
Reach: 15% · range 15 → 27 in
Warranty: 15% · range 1 → 15 yr