Fully contracted the unit only raises your keyboard and mouse by a couple centimetres off the desk, which was comfortable with my setup while sitting. To convert into a standing configuration, all you need to do is hold two handles — one on either side — and the whole thing will rise gently upwards thanks to a spring mechanism, meaning you don't have to physically lift at all. Pushing it back down can require a bit of shoulder, but if you let go of one of the handles it locks so you're unlikely to be hit in the face by an unintended release.

I'm around 185cm tall and the right height for me was a couple of clicks below maximum, so the Pro Plus may not be suitable if you're much taller. As it extends the keyboard tray also separates from the monitor level, so it ends up lower and much more forward, which is great as long as you have plenty of space to step back.

One minor concern about the Varidesk is that you'll really need a monitor setup that adjusts easily, since the difference in height between monitor and keyboard changes if you switch from sitting to standing. My usual monitor setup uses a vice to clamp onto the desk, but this didn't work for the ProPlus since it stopped the unit from contracting all the way down. Of course Veridesk does sell its own monitor arms (and mats, chairs and other accessories) specifically to go with its risers, but otherwise you'll want a monitor on an easily adjustable stand.

In terms of cable management, the ProPlus works very well as long as you have a bit of slack to spare. Enough space is left clear so cords don't get clamped when the system moves, and there are spots to anchor your cables with ties to keep everything tidy. I had no issues with my mouse or keyboard cables pulling as I raised the desk, though obviously you'll want to make sure anything attached to your monitor has enough cable can reach when at maximum height.

The biggest issue you'll need to consider when looking at this unit, aside from deciding if you have enough space (there are smaller and larger ProPlus models as well) is whether your workspace is up to the task. Issues like slanty floors or wobbly desk legs will only be amplified by stacking stuff like this on top, and while the ProPlus can handle up to 20kg you'll want to make sure your desk can handle that plus the unit as well.

In my experience though this is a comfortable and functional way to turn your ordinary desk into a convertible sit-stand desk, wirth the main benefit over less expensive risers being its rock-solid build quality and ease of adjustment. There's plenty of room for a full size keyboard and mouse — plus a coffee cup, notepads or your phone — on the lower shelf, and space up top for a pair of all but the bulkiest monitors. Converting is strain-free and (thankfully) requires no lifting or crank-turning, which made it much easier to keep a healthier posture and activity level when working at home.