This standing desk doubled in value when I became a father — but it's on sale regardless of whether you have a baby

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The Autonomous DIY desk is a solid standing desk that's helped me work, walk, and even change diapers.

Autonomous SmartDesk Core with IKEA tabletop
The Autonomous DIY desk frame can be attached to a range of countertops. (Image credit: Future)

This Black Friday, you'll see tons of deals on gadgets. But what about the surface you'll place those gadgets? Whether you have a gaming rig, a mini PC hooked up to a monitor, or a laptop, you'll want a good desk.

The Autonomous DIY desk is $20 off for Black Friday. It's a sturdy standing desk frame that you can pair with your countertop or desk top of choice. The discount on the desk is relatively small, but honestly the desk is easy to recommend at full price, so $20 off is icing on the cake (or ice cream on the pie if you're enjoying Thanksgiving leftovers).

Autonomous Desk DIY
Personal Pick
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Autonomous Desk DIY: was $349 now $329 at Autonomous Inc

This standing desk frame is easy to assemble and can be paired with your preferred desk top or work surface. It can store up to four presets for height or be adjusted manually between roughly 25 inches to 51 inches. There are three models of this desk frame: two-stage, three-stage, and L-shape.

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IKEA Barkaboda countertop
IKEA Barkaboda countertop: $349 at IKEA

You can attach a wide variety of countertops or desk tops to the Autonomous DIY desk. I chose the Barkaboda countertop from IKEA because of its thickness, width, and beautiful wooden design.

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I've used the Autonomous DIY desk for years (though it went by a different name when I reviewed it). The desk earned praise then and has held up well over time. It's still stable and remains quiet when adjusted.

The desk is easy to assemble and rock solid. I've used it almost daily for nearly two years. With the push of a button, the desk rises so I can stand while I read the news in the morning. With another tap, the desk drops down so I can hunker down and get to work (I can type while standing but I don't work as quickly).

The desk’s legs are far enough apart that I can fit a walking pad underneath. It is tall enough to have the handlebars of my walking pad upright, though that being an option will depend on your height.

I paired the Autonomous DIY desk with an IKEA kitchen top. They're about 1.5 inches thick and solid. I also like the look of them more than the bland desk tops I see in most offices.

Specifically, I have the Barkaboda countertop, which I like so much I'm staining the doors of my office to match it. There are also more affordable options and vary designs available.

I was pleasantly surprised by how well the Autonomous DIY desk works as a changing table for my baby. I'm eight inches taller than my wife, so a table that's the right height for her changing our baby is often too low for me. I've set aside a preset on my desk to the perfect height for changing my baby's diaper.

I have the three-stage model of the Autonomous DIY desk, which can expand to 73 inches across. The countertop I attached to the desk is a bit wider than 74 inches, so I have a ton of room to work with. The desk is so wide that I can leave my computer in the middle and still have enough space on the side for a baby changing station.

FAQ

Does the Autonomous DIY desk come with a desk top?

The Autonomous DIY desk does not come with a desk top. You need to purchase one separately or use one you already own.

Does the Autonomous DIY desk have memory presets?

Yes, the Autonomous DIY desk supports up to four presets. Its height can also be adjusted manually with the push of a button.

Does the Autonomous DIY desk have built-in cable management?

No, the Autonomous DIY desk does not have built-in cable management. Autonomous sells a cable tray separately, though you can find alternatives at many retailers.

How much weight does the Autonomous DIY desk support?

The 3-stage frame model of the Autonomous DIY desk supports up to 310 lbs. The 2-stage model supports up to 250 lbs. The L-shape frame supports up to 400 lbs.

Does the Autonomous DIY desk have a dual motor or single motor?

The Autonomous DIY desk has a dual motor, which allows the desk to support more weight, adjust height quicker, and be more stable than a desk featuring a single motor.

Autonomous Desk DIY
Personal Pick
Save $20
Autonomous Desk DIY: was $349 now $329 at Autonomous Inc

This standing desk frame is a personal favorite that I rely on almost daily. It's served me well for professional use and also doubles as a height-adjustable changing table.

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Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 930, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.

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