Welcome to the Ergotron Neo-Flex laptop cart review. Get ready to uncover the pros and cons associated with this mobile sit standing desk that’s suitable for work, home and endless other applications. Did you know that sit stand desks are available in portable choices? So, you can break away from your desk and easily glide your laptop and equipment to your destination with ease.
In this product review, I guide you through the key components and features of this portable podium that you need to bear in mind when choosing a standing mobile desk. Additionally, you’ll receive an unbiased and in-depth analysis of this digital work space along with tips and tricks about this mobile desk that you won’t find anywhere.
Trust me, I wrote this article because I couldn’t find any on the web! So, without further ado, let’s get started…
Did you know? Carrying laptops, computer and work equipment can lead to holding excess loads, unnecessary bending, fatigue and back pain that can be easily avoided by using a roll-along trolley instead.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Product Overview
The Ergotron Neo-Flex laptop cart features in the mobile standing desks category. It’s branded as a portable laptop cart that can be utilized in any environment where computing needs to be portable. So, when you think about it, you could use it in an endless amount of home, work or educational practices, whether as a:
- healthcare stand
- portable equipment trolley
- video recording platform
- lecture podium
- hub for standing meetings
- mobile office desk
- means of dodging the noise or kids while you study or work from home
Plus, there’s nothing stopping you from using it as a coffee stand either. Or go one step further and use it as a glorified dinner table while you sit and watch Netflix!
The work platform features various slots and components designed to accommodate a person while they work at this standing desk. Such features include an integrated laptop security system to secure the laptop while in transit and to deter thefts.
There’s also a cable management system for neat storage of cables and a multitude of accessories to enhance your ergonomic experience and enable greater storage and customization of the laptop trolley. This portable podium hinges on a set of 4 castors and a riser post which facilitates a range of adjustable heights.
In a world where technology is increasingly prevalent and dominating our home and work life, a platform for housing our ever-growing list of gadgets is becoming a must.
While it won’t overwhelm you with an abundance of nifty ergonomic attributes, there are features that will probably go unknown to you which contribute to ergonomics and your comfort. This is true when it’s compared with a conventional desk that limits you to a sitting posture and carrying potentially heavy loads from A to B, and back to A and over to C (you get the picture, it minimises the burden of carrying objects).
The efficient and stable design of the unit makes it an ideal nominee for anyone seeking to make their life easier and transform their current work space into a mobile sit stand zone.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Assembly
Unfortunately, this unit is not an out of the box, ready assembled desks. So, you will need to grab your toolbox, or someone gullible enough… whoops, I mean willing and capable of setting it up for you. Fortunately, there are step-by-step instructions provided to assist you along the way.
From examining the assembly instructions, (and FYI, I’m by no means an expert – in fact, I had to Google one of the tools required because the instructions didn’t give a name beside them) you’ll be glad to hear that installation seems fairly straightforward.
I would have preferred if they included some written instructions to complement the visual illustrations. I personally find that it can make installation slightly more challenging to understand when you’re only interpreting what’s happening in an image. Case and point – me Googling the tool name (and before you wise guys comment, no, it wasn’t screwdriver that I struggled on)
There are a range of tools that you’ll need to obtain in advance of commencing the construction phase:
- Scissors
- Phillips screwdriver
- Long reach (> 9 inch) Phillips screwdriver
- 14 mm socket wrench
- Drill
Judging by the instructions, assembly mostly comprises of screwing the base, worktop and laptop security system into place. After that, coordinating the cable ties and cable wrap bracket provided is the next step. Adjustments to the lift tension on the post is one of the final components that may require altering to ensure that the work surface remains at the position you place it and it doesn’t slide down.
Once the cart is built and you have completed all the necessary checks, all that’s outstanding is to place your equipment on the unit, adjust the height to suit your position and bring it for a spin!
Tip: Hold onto the tools provided in the box, such as the Allen wrench as you may need to alter the tension of the unit in the future.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Height Range
The height range of this mobile standing desk is 20 inches / 50.8 cm vertically, which should be adequate for most heights.
Alternating between sitting and standing positions couldn’t be easier. There’s no need to worry about hand levers, noisy or unwieldy cranking or locking mechanisms; to adjust the height, simply grab hold of the work surface and raise or lower it until you reach to your preferred height.
Tip: Your arms should be at a 90-degree angle when writing or typing, regardless of whether you are seated or standing up. This will avoid strain and deviations to your posture.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Dimensions
The compact footprint of this standing mobile desk is a welcome attribute which enables the cart to be situated in compact areas. This also makes it much easier to glide between busy corridors, rooms, offices or even areas within a room.
The work surface dimensions (16 x 17.5 inches / 42 x 45 cm) are narrower than those of the base footprint dimensions (17.5 x 22.8 inches / 44 x 58 cm). Therefore, in terms of footprint consumption, the lower region of the podium will consume more space than the work surface.
They mouse tray does extend out to consume extra footprint at the side of the desk; fortunately, this tray can easily be pushed back under the work surface during transport or storage for your convenience and to reduce footprint. It also means that there’s one less element that you need to worry about bashing off people or objects, especially when you try to move the cart through small areas and crowded corridors.
Tip: Ensure the region that you position the unit has sufficient clearance to adjust between changing positions without making impacting with items or walls, or people.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Work Surface
The work surface dimensions offer you a compact 16 x 17.5 inches / 42 x 45 cm of platform to play around with. It serves as an integrated work surface/keyboard tray/handle. Fitted at the front of the worktable is a cut-out slot which forms a handle that you can hold onto for easy manoeuvering of the cart.
Reviewers have appreciated the sturdiness of the work area. The work area offers sufficient space to fit a laptop while having space for your wrists to rest on the work surface.
If you feel you could benefit from some added space or wish to free up space that a laptop would consume, you can invest in a laptop kit which grants you the freedom to position your laptop in a 180-degrees vertical position on the post as opposed to it sitting at a normal right-angle on top of the work surface.
This laptop kit makes more precious work space available, which could be game changer if you need some space for writing, placing documents or items; or even if you simply prefer to type with a separate keyboard and mouse.
Furthermore, the fact that it mounts your laptop with a bracket to the post means that you can raise the height of the laptop screen in a more ergonomic position. So, instead of deviating your neck downwards to see the screen, you can look straight at the monitor in a more neutral position. You can also adjust the height so that you don’t have to strain your neck to see your laptop.
Your back and neck will thank you!
Also, as you may already know, it’s practically impossible to adopt optimal postures when typing on the laptop keyboard and mouse pad. This is why offices are predominated by screens, be it a laptop or monitor, with a separate keyboard and mouse. With the laptop positioned on the post, you can now have the freedom to fit a keyboard and mouse on the work area.
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to achieve an optimal ergonomic posture with the laptop merely sitting on the work area, so if you anticipate that you’ll sit or stand at the desk using a laptop for more than an hour a day, I would recommend considering this accessory.
How much do you bench?
The work surface offers a weight capacity of 15 lbs / 6.8 kg, which is sufficient for a laptop; the Neo-Flex is not intended for holding heavy computer equipment. I am conscious that the weight load is on the lower side of the weight capacity spectrum though.
While we’re on the topic of weight limits, it is important that your equipment or the force that you apply to the cart doesn’t exceed that weight limit. To give you some perspective on how much weight it can carry, many laptops will weigh about 5.5 lbs / 2.5 kg.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Mouse Tray
The mouse tray is suspended underneath the work surface and provides a comfortable amount of space to fit and move your mouse. Indeed, it might be able to hold a cup of coffee too if you fancied repurposing it!
A welcome feature that I was pleased to discover was that the mouse tray can be pushed under the work surface. It’s a useful benefit, especially when you’re not using the mouse or storing the cart in a compact area. Finally, there’s no need to worry if you are left-handed; the mouse tray is compatible with being used on both the left and right side of the work surface.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Mobility
Weighing in at 54 lbs / 24.5 kg, this mobile desk is relatively lightweight. That complemented by the 4 smooth-rolling dual casters means moving the desk between locations should be effortless… yes, even with equipment sitting on it!
There are lockable front casters fitted which are designed to securely keep the cart in place and avoid unwanted movement why you try to work or study or teach or concentrate or eat. I’m please to know that the lockable castors are the 2 front ones as this saves both you and I having to scurry around to the back of the cart to lock it in place. This is particularly valuable if you are on unlevel floors or floors with a smooth finish, e.g., tiles, wooden floors.
Plus, the premium dual casters have been reported to leave no marks on floors; the dual casters also reduce friction and floor scrubbing to ensure the experience of wheeling the cart around is seamless. The manufacturer indicates that there should be no problems moving across carpet, flooring or thresholds either, which will be an essential feature if you intend to move this unit often.
The bases of most casters are predominantly in a star shape, and generally feature between 3 and 6 arms. I’ve always been conscious of the caster arm shape, primarily due to the fact that I have heard of people tripping over them while they work.
I feel like I’m navigating past an octopus when I try to sit down or move!
Do you feel this way too? There are just so many protruding arms. With slips, trips and falls a leading cause of injury in the workplace, it just stands out to me as an obvious risk that could easily cause injury.
Thankfully, this has been innovatively redesigned in the Neo-Flex base so that the base forms more of an X shape. This creates greater foot space as the casters and their arms are stretched out to the sides. So, I don’t have to worry about where I place my feet or tripping over them.
Tip: The stability of the sit stand mobile desk is relative to the floor surface. If there are any uneven surfaces on the floor, e.g., wooden boards, then bounce or wobble will transfer to the mobile desk.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Cable Management
The cable management system incorporates a number of features to ensure the cable chaos is minimized. The power bank is neatly secured underneath the work surface on left side of the post, the associated cables are also held by means of a cable wrap bracket.
A number of attachment points are strategically positioned along the main column. Cables can be arranged along this post with the cable ties provided to ensure that there are no straying cables that could constitute a trip hazard or be run over as you glide your computer cart around.
It’s simple, but successful! You’ll be pleased to know that it’s also easy to route the cables too.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Laptop Security System
This feature boasts many benefits, the most important being the added stability while moving a laptop on the trolley and anti-theft properties. On top of all that, it enables cooling airflow and doesn’t prohibit the laptop fans from operating.
Unlike many other laptop security systems, there’s no need for Velcro or other adhesives as there is a security fastener and driver provided. For those of you who use a docking station, the system is also compatible with post-replicators too.
The integrated security system for securing your laptop in place was a welcome surprise. It’s not a feature that many mobile units possess. Neither is it one that typically comes as part and parcel of the unit. Often, you’ll have to splash some cash for this security feature.
Even if it was being sold as an accessory and I worked in a public place, such as a hospital or workplace with visitors, I honestly wouldn’t bat an eyelid at investing in the security system. If it gives me peace of mind that it could prevent a multitude of resourceful thieves seeking an opportunity to bank themselves a free laptop at my expense, then that’s a whole lot of headaches avoided.
Whether you’re talking personal or confidential patient/client data protection breaches, loss of essential and precious work files, valuable personal information, and even the cost of replacing a new laptop, a laptop security system is an invaluable asset to own.
Anyway, we don’t need to worry about buying one because we are graced with our very own integrated unit – wahoo!
Ergotron Neo-Flex Highlights
- Future-proof sit-stand mobile desk with height adjustability to enable enhanced posture.
- Suits a wide range of applications, e.g., teaching, medical technology storage, meetings, mobile work roles, home offices etc.
- Innovative design which achieves efficient and compact use of desk area.
- Integrated laptop security system to secure the laptop while in motion and to prevent thefts.
- Lightweight cart for easy movement.
- Smooth rolling premium casters for slick and graceful movement.
- Robust caster legs with easy-to-clean exterior.
- Dedicated cable management system for neat and tidy storage.
- Durable work surface finish capable of withstanding wear and tear.
- Smooth and silent raising and lowering of the height.
- Can easily accommodate numerous users.
- Can be self-assembled, no need for expensive technicians.
- Range of accessories available to increase storage and ergonomics.
- Includes impressive 3-year warranty.
Ergotron Neo-Flex Product Specification
|
Description |
Ergotron Neo-Flex laptop cart |
|
Part Number |
24-205-214 |
|
Colour |
Two tone grey |
|
Laptop Size |
12 – 17 inch laptops |
|
Number of Mountable Monitors |
1 laptop |
|
Screen Stability |
N/A |
|
Screen Tilt |
N/A |
|
Screen Pan |
N/A |
|
Screen Rotation |
N/A |
|
Maximum Weight Capacity |
15 lbs / 6.8 kg |
|
Adjustable Height |
Yes |
|
Height Range |
20 inches / 50.8 cm |
|
Lift Direction |
Vertical |
|
Work Surface Dimensions |
16 x 17.5 inches / 42 x 45 cm |
|
Base Footprint Dimensions |
17.5 x 22.8 inches / 44 x 58 cm |
|
Keyboard Tray Dimensions |
N/A |
|
Accessories Available |
Yes |
|
Weight of Unit |
33.8 lbs / 15.4 kg |
|
Shipping Dimensions |
21.75 x 15 x 45.25 inches / 55 x 38 x 115 cm |
|
Shipping Weight |
52 lbs / 23.6 kg |
|
Ships Fully Assembled |
Yes |
|
Ease of Installation |
Excellent |
Verdict
The Ergotron Neo-Flex laptop cart is a quality sit stand product that also offers features to promote ergonomics, comfort, functionality
and most importantly, mobility to glide between different areas with your laptop and equipment.
The nifty storage system for your cables and power sockets is a simple, yet effective features that enable you to work in a neat and safer manner. My favourite component is the laptop security systems. I can’t imagine how many headaches I would experience if my laptop fell or was stolen!
The applications of this product are much wider than simply a technology hub; so, if you are someone simply seeking a mobile desk to use as a podium for delivering presentations or meetings, a hospital trolley for navigating busy corridors, or as a mobile workstation or call desk that can be moved between various rooms, then this product can certainly deliver to your satisfaction.
The positive feedback regarding the rugged and portable design was a frequent theme in the multiple reviews that I read. They also loved the versatility that the unit offers.
For anyone concerned that this laptop hub will become outdated and surpassed by technology advances, fear not as this desk cunningly offers an innovative open architecture that can easily adapt to future technology upgrades.
The potential downfalls for this mobile computer unit are thankfully limited. From an ergonomic perspective, you will probably need to invest in the laptop kit to ensure you don’t adopt a strained posture. However, this may not pose an issue if you don’t intend to sit for long while using the laptop.
The work surface size should be more than adequate for the average sized laptop. However, if you anticipate that you’ll need to store more objects there or you would prefer more space, then perhaps a cart with a larger work space may be required. Don’t worry, I’ll leave a link down below to a product I think you’ll love.
The only other consideration is the weight capacity. This mobile laptop cart is designed to hold a laptop or light tools or gadgets. If you own heavy equipment or envisage the weight of your equipment coupled with the weight of you leaning on it could exceed the maximum weight load, then perhaps you should assess the weight of your items to compare them.
Those points aside, it’s undeniably an impressive unit which would be a functional asset to any home, work, technology medical or educational environment.
Below are some of the criteria that I take into consideration for rating standing mobile desks:
- Being able to lean on or write on the unit without it swaying or toppling over.
- Having adequate space when typing or using the unit.
- Ensuring that the keyboard or other components do not push me away from the monitor.
- Ensuring the unit can reach the necessary heights so I do not have to deviate my posture.
- Being easily adjustable without causing excessive noise or struggling to raise or lower the height due to the weight.
- Being reasonably affordable.
- Having a good warranty.
- Having good reviews on the product.
Based on reviewing the product along with opinions of consumers, I’m satisfied that the unit has almost met my list of criteria. I wouldn’t risk leaning on the work surface though.
Would I recommend it to a friend or family member?
For sure, particularly for someone looking for a compact standing mobile desk or platform for moving their laptop or technology.
| For ✓ | Against ✘ |
|
Lightweight and excellent mobility |
Limited weight capacity |
|
Suitable for a compact work space |
Compact work surface |
|
Endless applications for work, home or education environments |
Requires assembly |
|
Robust design and user-friendly | |
Conclusion
If you’re interested in joining the hundreds of thousands of people converting to standing desks and you want to enhance your energy levels, improve your posture and reduce negative health conditions associated with sitting for hours on end, then you should do like me and so many others did and check out the full range of Ergotron products on a limited time discount. Don’t get left in the stone age:
For those of you who are seeking a mobile desk with larger work surface or higher weight capacity to convert your existing work space into a sit stand refuge, then I have reviewed this popular product which may be of interest to you. Want to see why it’s so popular and what my in-depth analysis and genuine opinion of this product is? Then click here to find out: Ergotron TeachWell mobile digital work space review
Have you any queries on this product or on standing mobile desks in general? Do you own a sit stand mobile desk? As always, I’d love to hear your opinion and questions, so please drop them in the box below.
