Realspace Magellan Pneumatic Height-Adjustable Standing Desk

Revamp Your Workspace with the Realspace Magellan Standing Desk

If you’re looking to transform your workspace, a standing desk is a great way to add versatility and improve your health. With options to sit or stand throughout the day, a height-adjustable desk can provide the flexibility we need in today’s work environment. I recently upgraded to the Realspace Magellan pneumatic standing desk and wanted to share my buying guide and review after testing it out. Keep reading for everything you need to know before purchasing the Realspace Magellan!

Key Features of the Realspace Magellan Standing Desk

The Realspace Magellan is packed with features to create an adaptable workspace. Here are some of the key specs:

• Pneumatic Height Adjustment: The Magellan desk features smooth pneumatic lift to effortlessly move from a seated to standing position. The pneumatic system allows you to adjust the height anywhere from 29.5″ to 45.25″ with the push of a lever.
• Spacious 47.6″ Surface: With a wide 47.6″ surface, the Magellan provides plenty of room for your devices, notebooks, accessories and more. The depth is also substantial at 23.35″.
• Sturdy Steel Frame: Built on a heavy-gauge steel frame with a 350 lb weight capacity, this desk is made to last. The strong framework keeps the surface stable at any height.
• Rolling Casters: The Magellan comes equipped with 2″ casters that roll smoothly and lock in place. This allows you to move the desk where needed.
• Cable Management: Built-in wire management holes allow you to organize cords and create a clutter-free workspace.

Adjusting the Desk Height

One of the major perks of the Magellan standing desk is the pneumatic lift system that makes height adjustment a breeze. Here are the simple steps:

1. Remove items from the desk surface. Safety first!
2. Locate the pneumatic lift lever underneath the right side of the desk.
3. To raise the desk, gently pull the lever up. Release the lever when the desk reaches your desired height.
4. To lower the desk, gently press the lever down. Release when lowered to the preferred level.

It only takes a matter of seconds to adjust the desk to your perfect sitting or standing height! The pneumatic lift allows you to do this effortlessly without any electric motors or gears.

Where to Buy the Realspace Magellan Standing Desk

The Realspace Magellan Standing Desk is sold exclusively at Office Depot/OfficeMax. You can purchase it through the Office Depot website or at Office Depot retail locations.

Here are some buying options:

• Order online for delivery to your home or office. The desk ships free.
• Purchase in-store and have it delivered to your location. Scheduling delivery through the store has no extra fees.
• Buy in-store and take it home same day. The assembled desk may fit in a large vehicle. Keep the box and packaging if transporting yourself.

I bought my Magellan desk directly through the Office Depot website and had a great ordering experience. Just be aware this product is not sold on Amazon or other third party sites.

Pricing for the Realspace Magellan Standing Desk

The Magellan desk comes at a mid-range price point compared to other standing desks. Here’s a look at the cost:

• List Price: $369.99
• Typical Promo Price: $249.99
• Sale Price: I’ve seen it discounted as low as $199.99

The standard list price runs around $370, but Office Depot regularly has it on promotion for $250. And I scored my Magellan desk for just $200 on a special President’s Day sale!

So while not the cheapest option, the Magellan is very reasonably priced for a pneumatic standing desk with its range of features. Definitely a great value buy! Monitor for sales to get the best deal.

My Experience Assembling the Desk

Putting together the Magellan standing desk took less than 30 minutes total. Here are some tips for a seamless assembly:

• Clear ample space to layout all the parts and hardware. I recommend assembling right where you plan to use the desk.
• The instruction guide is straightforward with clear diagrams. But I pulled up an online video just in case.
• Use the included Allen wrench and Phillips screwdriver to attach the crossbar, legs, and desktop. The tools make assembly simple.
• It’s a two person job. While one person can assemble alone, having an extra set of hands to hold pieces together is very helpful.
• Pay close attention to screwing in the bolts tightly. This ensures the desk is sturdy. Don’t overtighten, but make sure parts are connected snugly.

With an easy-to-follow manual and the right tools provided, you’ll have your Magellan desk built and ready to use within half an hour. The simple pneumatic design means minimal assembly required.

How the Magellan Compares to Other Standing Desks

The Realspace Magellan desk holds up well when compared to other more premium standing desks. Here’s how it stacks up:

• Adjustment Range – With a minimum height of 29.5” and max of 45.25”, the Magellan competes with $500+ electric desks in terms of adjustment range.
• Build Quality – The thick desktop and sturdy steel frame make the Magellan a durable option comparable to higher end brands like Uplift and FlexiSpot.
• Stability – The pneumatic lift provides stable height transitions. No wobbling issues like some other budget standing desks.
• Weight Capacity – Supporting up to 350 pounds, the Magellan matches capacity ratings from more expensive standing desks.

The main advantage of pricier electric adjustable desks is the push-button height change and preset memory. But the Magellan still offers excellent quality and performance for the price.

Materials and Construction of the Magellan Desk

The Magellan desk features a solid build with premium materials:

• The 1” desktop is a high-quality laminated wood material that feels sturdy and resists scratches. Edge banding gives it a finished look.
• The sturdy steel frame with crossbar provides strength and stability for the desk surface at all heights.
• The powder coated silver/gray finish gives the steel components a sleek, professional look.
• The pneumatic lift cylinder smoothly raises up to 320 lbs with minimal effort.
• The leveling pads feature a durable plastic construction and adjust to stabilize on uneven floors.

Made from wood laminate, steel, and plastic, the Magellan desk is built to last in both home and office environments. All materials seem commercial grade.

Is the Realspace Magellan Desk Durable?

Definitely! Between the thick desktop, heavy-duty steel frame, and high-quality pneumatic lift, the Magellan desk is made to withstand everyday wear and tear.

Here are some examples of its durability:

• The laminated wood desktop easily supports multiple monitors, laptops, speakers, books, and other workspace accessories without sagging.
• The pneumatic lift smoothly adjusts up and down, even after months of daily use. No sticking points or uneven height transitions.
• The legs stay tightly attached and I’ve had no issues with stability even when standing and typing.
• Despite a few minor scuffs on the frame, the steel parts show minimal signs of wear after regular use.

With a robust build and capacity to support 350 pounds, the Magellan standing desk is a long-lasting solution for any home or office.

Assessing the Stability of the Realspace Magellan

Stability is a major factor for standing desks. You want confidence that the desk surface will remain steady and not wobble as you adjust the height and work.

Here’s an assessment of the Magellan’s stability:

• The pneumatic lift allows slow and controlled height adjustments, preventing any abrupt jarring movements.
• At both sitting and standing heights, the desk surface stays completely level and stable. No rocking motions whatsoever.
• The weight and placement of the desktop, crossbar, and legs prevent the desk from tipping when extended to max height.
• All connections between the desktop, frame, and base feel tight and secure at every height interval.
• Casters roll smoothly but can be locked in place for maximum stability when standing.

Between the thoughtful engineering and sturdy materials, the Magellan desk provides exceptional stability through the full pneumatic lift range.

Height Range of the Realspace Magellan Standing Desk

One of the biggest perks of an adjustable standing desk is the range of heights it can accommodate. So what is the height range for the Magellan?

• Minimum Height: 29.5 inches
• Maximum Height: 45.25 inches

With a lowest position under 30 inches, the Magellan can sit low enough for users of all heights to have an ergonomic seated work set up.

And at full extension, the 45+ inch maximum height allows you to stand comfortably for work. Even tall users over 6 feet can find an ideal standing position.

The 15.75 inch height range from minimum to maximum provides exceptional adjustability. Whether sitting or standing, you can dial in the perfect workspace height with the Magellan.

Warranty Details for the Realspace Magellan Desk

The Magellan standing desk comes with a limited 5 year warranty from Office Depot. Here are the key details of the warranty coverage:

• 5 years warranty against manufacturer defects on all desktop surfaces, frames, bases and other structural components
• Warranty provides free repair or replacement of defective parts
• Normal wear, damage from misuse, and accidental damage are not covered
• Requires original proof of purchase for warranty claims
• Only valid for purchases made directly through Office Depot’s official sales channels

With one of the longest warranties provided for a standing desk, the 5 year coverage from Realspace offers great protection on your investment. Just be sure to buy directly from Office Depot.

Design Dimensions of the Magellan Desk

What are the dimensions for the Realspace Magellan’s surface area and overall footprint? Here are the key specs:

• Desktop Size: 47.6″ wide x 23.35″ deep
• Base Footprint: 45.5” wide x 29” deep
• Total Height Range: 29.5” minimum to 45.25” maximum

The expansive 47.6″ wide desktop provides ample workspace area. And the desk base measures under 30″ deep so it can fit in constricted spaces against a wall or in a corner.

Add in the 15.75” height adjustability, and the Magellan can adapt to many office layouts and user positions.

Can the Magellan Desk Support Dual Monitors?

With its large 47.6 inch width, the Magellan standing desk can definitely accommodate dual monitor setups.

Here are some tips for successfully using two monitors with the Magellan:

• Position monitors side-by-side towards the back of the desk to allow room for devices in front.
• Clamp monitor mounts onto the back edge of the desk if you want to save overall surface space.
• Consider monitor arms to precisely position screens and adjust distances from eyes.
• Check the weight capacity of monitor mounts to ensure compatibility with monitors, especially larger screens.
• Properly organize cords from monitors along with CPU wires with the built-in cable management.

The Magellan’s stability and ample weight capacity provide the perfect foundation for multi-monitor use. Dual screens help boost productivity!

What Real Users Are Saying About the Magellan

The Realspace Magellan standing desk has received very positive reviews from actual users. Here’s a look at the key pros that real customers highlight:

• Sturdy and stable surface at sitting and standing heights
• Smooth and easy pneumatic lift adjustment mechanism
• Sleek professional look that fits home or office
• Spacious desktop to handle multiple devices
• Straightforward assembly with clear instructions
• Good value price point compared to electric desks
• Excellent customer service from Office Depot if any issues

The few critical reviews mention minor cosmetic damage in shipping or desk not being completely level. But overall, users agree this is a quality pneumatic standing desk for the price.

Maintenance Tips for the Magellan Standing Desk

Like any piece of office furniture, some periodic maintenance is recommended to keep the Magellan desk in top shape:

• Clean the Desktop: Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust and debris from the desktop. For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a mild soap and water solution.
• Check Connections: Verify all screws, bolts, and other connectors are snugly tightened. Tighten hardware if anything comes loose.
• Level the Desk: Adjust leveling pads beneath legs to maintain desk stability if surface becomes unleveled.
• Lubricate the Lift: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the pneumatic lift rods if adjustment becomes stiff.
• Manage Cables: Check underside cable hooks and clips to ensure wires are neatly organized.

With occasional cleaning and basic care, your Magellan desk can deliver many years of reliable performance.

Available Color Options

The Realspace Magellan standing desk comes in two color varieties:

• Silver/Gray: Silver powder coated steel frame with a gray laminated wood desktop. This is the most popular and widely available color option.
• Black/Black: Matte black steel frame paired with a black wood laminate desktop. Only at Office Depot.

The black on black version provides a modern, sleek look. But I opted for the silver/gray model for a slightly brighter aesthetic. Visit a local Office Depot to see both color options in person.

Is the Magellan Good for Small Spaces?

At just under 30 inches deep and able to move flush against walls, the Realspace Magellan is an excellent standing desk option for small offices or apartments.

Here’s why it’s ideal for use in tight spaces:

• Minimal Footprint: With its narrow rectangular base, the Magellan takes up minimal floor real estate.
• Maneuverability: The rolling casters allow you to easily move the desk out of the way when needed.
• Corner Positioning: The desk can fit flush into a corner to open up additional floor space.
• Adjustable Height: You can raise or lower the desk to make room for other furniture when not in use.
• Space-Saving Design: The thin profile frame and lack of cross support beams conserve space.

Don’t let a small home office or room deter you from a standing desk. The Realspace Magellan is specifically designed for tight quarters.

How the Pneumatic Lift Works on the Magellan

The pneumatic lift system is what enables the Magellan desk to smoothly transition from sitting to standing heights. Here is an overview of how it works:

• The major components of the lift are a piston, air and oil fluid, and a release valve. These are encased in the lift cylinder under the desk.
• Pushing the lever releases air pressure in the valve, allowing the piston to move up and down freely within the cylinder.
• The oil in the cylinder creates hydraulic resistance to control the rate of descent when lowering the desk.
• Releasing the lever closes the valve so the piston locks in position at the desired height.
• To raise the desk, the leverage of pushing up engages the lift and piston to their maximum extended position.

The pneumatic lift utilizes air pressure, hydraulic fluids, and mechanical leverage to deliver effortless height adjustments. This technology removes the need for electric motors.

Cable Management Features

Keeping cords organized is made simple with the Magellan desk’s built-in cable management:

• The crossbar includes clips to neatly run power cords and USB cables from the desk surface to the floor.
• Openings in the back corner of the frame provide access for cords to run from power strips up to the desktop.
• Adhesive hooks underneath attach to the crossbar to hold loose cables in place and prevent dangling.
• Side channels keep cables running to peripherals contained and out of the way.

The cord management cutouts and clips are extremely useful for organizing power cords, monitor cables, and wires from other accessories. Say goodbye to tangled messes!

Is the Magellan Compatible with Accessories?

The Realspace Magellan desk is designed to accommodate a wide range of accessories:

• Monitor Mounts: Drilling into the laminated wood desktop allows installation of single or dual monitor mounts. Verify weight limits before installing monitors.
• Keyboard Trays: Under-desk keyboard trays can mount onto the crossbar to pull out for ergonomic typing.
• CPU Holders: Models that mount to the sides of desks or crossbars work to position your computer tower.
• Surge Protectors: Multi-outlet power strips plug in under the desk and feed cords through the built-in cable openings.
• Caster Cups: Optional caster cups add an extra 1-3” of height for taller users.

With its durable frame, thick desktop, and cable management, the Magellan easily incorporates many enhancements for a fully customized workspace.

Key Takeaways: A Worthy Investment for Your Home Office

The Realspace Magellan pneumatic height adjustable standing desk provides premium features and performance at a reasonable price point. With smooth and stable height adjustments, a spacious work surface, and sturdy construction that will last for years, the Magellan desk enhances any home office or workspace.

Hopefully this detailed buying guide gives you all the information needed to decide if the Realspace Magellan is the right fit for your standing desk needs. I’m beyond satisfied with my Magellan purchase thanks to the quality, versatility and durable build. Don’t hesitate to revamp your workspace with this excellent stand up desk solution.