Uplift Desk V2
The original — still sold, still Wirecutter's longtime pick
Pricing & where to buy
Starts at $599 for 48x30 laminate. Bamboo tops add ~$60, solid wood tops ~$300+, advanced keypad ~$30.
Where to buy
- Uplift DeskSame configurator as V2 Commercial — frame choice toggles at top of page.
Overview
The V2 is the model that established Uplift's reputation. It's been Wirecutter's pick since 2018 and remains in the lineup alongside the new V3. Compared to the V3 it's slower (1.57 in/sec), takes longer to assemble (32 screws), and lacks the included FlexMount cable manager — but it's $100 cheaper at base, and crucially has a higher max height (50.9" vs 48.7"), which matters for users above ~6'2".
The configurator is the deepest of any Uplift model, with 20+ desktop materials including bamboo, walnut, reclaimed fir, and several solid woods. The 15-year all-inclusive warranty is identical to the V3.
Who it's for: budget-conscious buyers who want Uplift quality without paying the V3 premium, and tall users who need the extra height range. Most people buying new in 2026 should choose the V3 instead.
Specs
- Min height
- 25.5 in
- Max height
- 50.9 in
- Weight capacity
- 355 lbs
- Min top width
- 42 in
- Max top width
- 80 in
- Min top depth
- 27 in
- Max top depth
- 36 in
- Frame stages
- 3
- Motors
- 2
- Transition speed
- 1.57 in/s
- Noise level
- 45 dB
- Tempo compatible?
- Yes
- Frame warranty
- 15 yrs
- Motor warranty
- 15 yrs
- Electronics warranty
- 15 yrs
- Desktop warranty
- 15 yrs
Configuration options
Desktop sizes
Desktop materials
Frame colors
Controllers
Add-ons
Features
Pros & cons
Pros
- Cheapest entry point into Uplift quality ($599 base)
- Tallest max height — best fit for users 6'2"+
- Massive accessory ecosystem and configurator
- Multi-year track record — Wirecutter top pick since 2018
- Quiet operation (under 45 dB)
Cons
- Slower transition than V3 (1.57 vs 2.0 in/sec)
- 32-screw assembly is genuinely tedious — budget 60-90 minutes
- Some reviewers note wobble at full extension with heavy loads
- FlexMount cable manager is V3-only; V2 cable mgmt is sold separately
What manufacturer-site reviews say
Uplift's on-site V2 reviews skew strongly positive (4.8★+ aggregate across thousands). Recurring praise: build quality, customer service, accessory variety. Recurring complaints: assembly time, anti-collision oversensitivity, and shipping damage on the desktop crate.
Third-party reviews
Reddit discussions
YouTube reviews
No reviews logged yet.
Most frequently added accessories
Tempo Smart Controller — ErgodrivenUniversal smart controller that bolts onto your existing desk and adds automatic sit/stand reminders, presets, and step tracking. Works with most major standing desks including Uplift, Autonomous, Branch, Fully/Herman Miller, Deskhaus, and Flexispot.
Topo Mat — ErgodrivenAnti-fatigue standing mat with calculated terrain that gives your feet something to do while you stand. Wirecutter's top pick for standing-desk mats since 2016.
WalkingPad A1 Pro — KingSmithFoldable under-desk treadmill, 0.5–3.75 mph, 300 lb capacity, runs under 65 dB. Stows flat under your desk when you're done walking.
Mount-It! Clamp-On Power Strip — Mount-It!Clamps to the edge of your desktop and travels up and down with the desk — 3 outlets plus 3 USB ports, no more cable snags from a wall-mounted strip.