Who doesn't know this feeling: Anyone who works too long in front of the screen or loses themselves for hours in the most beautiful game worlds gradually sinks more and more into the swivel chair or develops a rounded back that makes the Hunchback of Notre Dame look old.
What looks like pain shooting through your spine is also anatomically harmful to the body. Incorrect and prolonged sitting positions can lead to tension in the neck and back problems. Furthermore, sitting for too long has other health consequences: metabolic activity decreases, fewer calories are burned, and blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease increase. In short: sitting is the new smoking!
Individuality decides
Why not simply use a height-adjustable chair to regularly change your sitting position, some might ask. Of course, that's an option, but not always helpful for very tall people. Someone who, at 190 cm tall, lowers their chair all the way down will find their knees bent almost like a tree frog's – that's hardly good posture, and they'll still be stuck in a seated position. A height-adjustable desk can solve this problem. It also allows you to adjust the height to comfortably work while standing, because not every gaming desk is used solely for playing games; many also serve as a workspace.
But even in games that require a lot of movement or concentration, playing while standing can be advantageous. And that's where the table comes into its own, because switching between standing and sitting not only reduces the risk of back and neck pain, but also stimulates circulation, which increases concentration. And we all know: gamers aren't always the most athletic types. A height-adjustable chair can't do much to change that.
The company Flexispot has long offered a wide selection of height-adjustable desks, to which these two are now added. Gaming tables GT3 and GT5 include those that we tested immediately. Already in our previous test reports Flexispot's diverse product range, including matching chairs, has impressed customers. With their gaming line, they are now specifically targeting a new audience that isn't always in the office.
Flexispot GT3 and GT5: The differences
The more compact GT3, with only one motor, comes with a tabletop measuring a maximum of 140 x 80 cm and has a load capacity of 70 kg. The larger GT5 has two motors, which are already integrated into the base, and offers a tabletop with maximum dimensions of 180 x 80 cm and a load capacity of 125 kg. If you plan to place several monitors, a PC or console, and accessories on the desk, you should probably opt for the larger version, even though the smaller GT3 already offers plenty of space. Finally, don't forget the weight of the tabletop itself, which, especially with the GT5, weighs almost 20 kg and is 2.5 cm thick.
Speaking of space: The curved and rounded shape of both models makes extremely efficient use of it, as the tabletops have a recess at the front into which you can roll your chair, providing additional surfaces on both sides for placing and resting items. This not only looks cool but is also practical in everyday use and gives you a bit of a feeling like you're operating the warp drive aboard the USS Enterprise. At the same time, the curved shape appears smaller than a classic rectangular tabletop. There are also differences in the control unit: the larger GT5 features touch controls, while the GT3 uses physical buttons.
Due to their weight, both tables will arrive at your home in two separate deliveries. One package contains the stylish, curved tabletop with a carbon fiber look, while the second delivery contains the frame with motor(s) and all possible accessories that are exclusively available for these two models.
Flexispot setup in 15 minutes
Both tables can be quickly assembled, even by those less experienced in furniture assembly, thanks to the clear instructions. It's also helpful that all the screws are in lettered bags – reminiscent of Lego sets, and the instructions are just as detailed and self-explanatory. Assembling both tables was therefore quick and easy, taking only 10 to 15 minutes each. Adjustable feet allow for leveling on uneven surfaces, ensuring optimal positioning of the table on any surface.
Regarding assembly, it's important to note that with the GT3 model, you should pay close attention to which side will be the front and which the back, unlike the GT5, is not perfectly symmetrical. If you tend to find that a board has been installed incorrectly during assembly, be sure to avoid mixing up the front and back. Otherwise, there's really nothing else you can do wrong. The matching tabletops also come with pre-drilled holes, which makes assembly significantly easier.
We were particularly impressed by the well-thought-out placement of the motor(s) and cables, especially on the GT5, where everything disappears into the background. Gaming desks with multiple monitors, consoles, speakers, headsets, controllers, and various gadgets, along with their charging devices, often result in a chaotic collection of cables. Both desk models feature cable management clips that neatly conceal these cables beneath the tabletop. The power cables for the motors and the control unit cable are also easily secured with the included cable clips, ensuring they neither detract from the overall aesthetic nor dangle awkwardly under the tabletop. The designers clearly put a lot of thought into this and came up with a truly tidy and simple solution.
A helping hand is definitely an advantage when assembling the heavier GT5 model, because the tabletop is placed upside down on the floor for mounting, and the frame is also turned and assembled in reverse. This means that the entire desk has to be lifted and turned – which easily weighs almost 40 kilos. After assembly, you can quickly add the desired accessories. the included accessories In addition to a hook for a bag or headset, a drink holder is also included, so you don't spill anything, literally, in the heat of the moment. Optional accessories include cable management systems for power supplies, PC tower mounts, colorful LED lighting, and practical pegboards that attach directly to the desk. They've thought of just about everything.
A real eye-catcher
Once assembled, the desk makes a superb overall impression; everything appears incredibly well-made, and the carbon-look tabletop, with its sporty, futuristic design and print, is a real eye-catcher in any gaming setup, sure to delight any gamer. The motors also operate smoothly and quietly. The desk height can be precisely adjusted in very fine increments and conveniently saved to your preferred settings using four memory buttons. You truly get top-notch quality combined with a cool design for your money.
After the first few hours at the new desk, the concept's advantages are clear. As soon as the seating position becomes uncomfortable, you simply adjust the desk's height, automatically shifting your posture and allowing you to continue playing comfortably. Action-packed titles with controller input also benefit from the screen height being raised to its highest setting, allowing you to stand and move around while playing. Even while writing this article, it's noticeable that my concentration lasts significantly longer and the usual fatigue after long hours at the computer is less pronounced. The desk's height adjustability is therefore far from being just a nice technological gimmick; it will noticeably improve our gaming and workdays.
Important notesFlexispot has regular sales promotions It's worth checking out the sales where you can get the products cheaper, including the new gaming desks. For example, there's a 50% discount on height-adjustable desks until November 12th.
Conclusion: Flexispot GT3 and GT5
What is the definition of uncomfortable where someone is supposed to play games?
Even as a workplace, it's simply sad.
Couch, big TV, feet up, and relaxation. Such a disgusting desk and chair!!! That's more for work; I don't want that at home.
You forgot to mention the bag of chips that's always within easy reach next to you while your wife feeds you pizza and you've lost control of your BMI.
I think Sony should manufacture desks; there's a market gap.
Just out of pure curiosity: Are there people who own a console and play at a desk? And if so… why?
I even ran a 30-meter-long HDMI and USB cable from my PC (which is on my desk) to my 85-inch TV in the living room. 🙂
Why a desk?
I'm sitting comfortably on the sofa, my legs are up on the coffee table, and my 85 is in front of me.
: )