Rather than optimizing space, the sensor takes too much away and actively intrudes on the user experience.
Autonomous SmartDesk Levitate puts a new spin on standing desks.
Its sensor simulates levitating based on hand movements.
Mark LoProto / How-to Geek
Solid steel and natural ash wood make this desk durable and sturdy, extending from 26.3 to 44.1 in.
Price and Availability
The Autonomous SmartDesk Levitate is available exclusively through Autonomous’online store.
I have assembledquite a few standing desksover the past year alone.
Autonomous SmartDesk Levitate puts a new spin on standing desks. Its sensor simulates levitating based on hand movements. Solid steel and natural ash wood make this desk durable and sturdy, extending from 26.3 to 44.1 in.
That was not the case with the SmartDesk Levitate.
Making matters worse, the instructions weren’t accurate to the actual assembly.
I stepped away for a minute before returning to break the table down to the initial steps.
Mark LoProto / How-to Geek
Durable Frame and Sturdy Desktop
A two-motor setup would have been infinitely easier to assemble.
I tend to find the thicker dual legs on models likeFlexiSpots Q8andSecretLab’s Magnus Prooffer better stability.
I was surprised by the 310-pound weight limit, even at its maximum height of 44.1 inches.
Mark LoProto / How-to Geek
The desktop itself is also a nice, light wood finish.
It reminds me a little of FlexiSpots Q8 Pro Standing Desk, just thicker.
The Levitate Sensor: Who Asked for This?
Mark LoProto / How-to Geek
I ask earnestly and not with an air of sarcasm.
Admittedly, when I first received the pitch email for the Levitate, I was intrigued.
However, the concept of a desk that moves based on hand movements sounds much better than it is.
Mark LoProto / How-to Geek
At first, I didnt consider how the sensor is built into the top of the desk.
The biggest issue is that the sensor responds to literally anything.
Initially, I kept returning to the office to find the table at either the maximum or minimum height.
Its Not All Bad
I think theres a neat idea in here.
This implementation just isn’t it.
I was surprised mainly by how well the sensor responded to my hand movements.
The button also adjusts the desk, but less efficiently than a control panel with directional arrows.
Then, it would shift gears and move in the opposite direction.
You are supposed to use the sensor, so I get why this isnt some fine-tuned mechanic.
Nothing gets in the way, and I have the full width and length of the desk to use.
Its a neat feature convenient for charging your phone or some other peripheral.
It did do both for me, as I plugged in my wireless magnetic charger and desktop air filter.
I like the idea in practice.
Should You Buy the Autonomous SmartDesk Levitate?
It is rare that I outright dont recommend something.
I feel theres a market for everything.
As much asI typically likeAutonomous products, though, I dont see the market for itsSmartDesk Levitate.
If it was all toward the rear of the desk, Id be able to move past it.
The sensor is exactly where my arm hovers when using my mouse.
