Standing desks are all the rage at the moment. Hot on the heels of Refold's portable cardboard standing desk is the ZestDesk. Like the Refold desk, the ZestDesk responds to workforce health and mobility trends. Unlike the Refold desk, though, the ZestDesk isn't actually a desk.
Despite its name, the ZestDesk is perhaps more accurately described as a desktop stand. It's designed to sit on top of a table or desk, and raise a laptop and keyboard up to a comfortable level for a user who is standing. Typology aside, the ZestDesk offers a number of features that may appeal to those looking for an alternative to slouching in a chair all day.
The main selling point of the ZestDesk is its portability and convenience. The device is designed to be its own carry-case and can be unfolded and set up within 30 seconds, according to the company. The main four-legged portion of the stand on which the user's keyboard sits is self-contained, whilst the additional raised monitor platform is the only separate part that needs attaching.
The legs of the stand fold out and lock into position, after which they can be adjusted to suit the height of the user. Once the 58 x 64-cm (22.8 x 25.1-in) bottom keyboard platform has been set up, the 21.6 x 30-cm (8.5 x 11.8-in) monitor platform is attached at the back, the height of which can also be adjusted. This means that both the user's keyboard and laptop or monitor screen can be set to an optimal height. The screen stand can be slid from side to side, and an additional screen stand can be added depending on the user's required setup. Two 17-in laptops or monitors will fit next to each other comfortably.
In addition to being portable and adjustable, the ZestDesk is designed to be sturdy. It is made of anodized aluminum and the company says it is strong enough for users to lean on and to write on. The bottom portion of the stand has a carrying capacity of 20 kg (44 lb), whilst the monitor stand can hold 10 kg (22 lb). ZestDesk says it will hold a 27-in iMac / monitor.
A padded carry-bag is also available to protect the ZestDesk when it is being moved about. The bag is made of Cordura and has a padded lining. The handles and shoulder strap are also padded for comfortable carrying, and there is an additional 30-cm (12-in) pocket that will fit a small laptop or accessories.
A Kickstarter campaign is underway to raise money for the production and tooling of the ZestDesk. Assuming all goes to plan with the campaign and subsequent activities, individuals can pledge from AUD$337 (about US$296) for a ZestDesk with a single monitor stand (at the time of writing).
The video below is the Kickstarter pitch for the ZestDesk.
Source: Kickstarter, ZestDesk