Adjustable desks have moved from niche to normal in homes and offices across the UK. People are investing in healthier work habits, and more comfortable furniture that fits the way they live and work. 

As interest grows, so does the confusion around the technical features that sit behind each desk. One of the most common questions our buyers ask is simple: should I choose a single motor or a dual motor height adjustable desk?

If you want to make the right choice, it helps to understand the basics. Both types of motor lift and lower the desk at the press of a button. Both are designed to carry weight. Both allow you to switch between sitting and standing when you need a change. But the experience can vary depending on the design, engineering and quality of the system.

Let’s look at how single motor and dual motor adjustable desks differ (and how to find the right design for your needs). 

What a Motor System Actually Does

A motor system controls the movement of your desk’s legs. When you press the height control, the motors drive the lifting columns within the frame, raising or lowering the surface. The smoother and more consistent the movement, the easier it is to reach your ideal working height.

Motor systems affect four important things:

• How stable the desk feels while moving and while you work
• How quiet the desk is
• How much weight it can support
• How reliable it remains over years of being used daily

This is why choosing the right system has a real impact on your long-term experience. 

Single Motor Adjustable Desks: How They Work

A single motor desk uses one motor housed in the frame. That motor drives both legs through a rotating shaft. It is a simple setup that keeps costs low and reduces some internal components.

Benefits of single motor desks

• They generally cost less. Because single motor systems use fewer parts, they cost less to produce. This makes them a common choice for buyers who want an adjustable desk but need to stay within a tight budget.
• Straightforward engineering. Fewer moving parts can mean they’re less likely to fail. A well made single motor desk can last for years if used within its limits.
• Suitable for lighter use. If you work from home and don’t use it too often outside your hours, the performance of a single motor may be enough. A laptop, monitor, and basic accessories usually sit within the safe lifting range.

Limitations of single motor desks

• Lower lifting speed. A single motor has more work to do. This often results in it making it slower to change the height. It is not a major issue for occasional adjustments, but it can be noticeable if you change it often.

• Reduced weight capacity. Single motor frames often support less weight. If you use large monitors, desktop PCs, or heavier equipment, you may push the system close to its limit.

• They’re usually noisier. Because one motor works harder to move both legs, some single motor desks produce more noise during lifting. This can matter in shared offices where quiet operation is valued.

Dual Motor Adjustable Desks: How They Work

A dual motor system places one motor in each desk leg. Instead of a single motor powering both columns through a drive shaft, each leg lifts itself. This split system offers more control and more strength.

Benefits of dual motor desks

• Stronger lifting capacity. With two motors sharing the work, the frame can lift more weight with ease. This is ideal for multi monitor setups, desktop towers, audio equipment, and anything heavier than a typical home office load.

• Smoother and faster movement. Dual motor systems usually lift faster and more evenly. This makes each transition from sitting to standing feel natural, even with significant weight on the desk.

• Quieter operation. Because the motors share the load, each motor works less intensely. This often results in a quieter lifting action, which is appreciated in open plan spaces and professional settings.

• More stable. Dual motor frames are known for better rigidity, especially at higher positions. If type with force, are often drawing or using sensitive equipment tend to prefer this stability.

• More reliable in the long-term. Two motors do not strain as much as one. Over years of daily use, this can help reduce the wear on key components. When paired with a solid warranty, dual motor systems offer strong long term value.

Limitations of dual motor desks

• Higher purchase price. Dual motor desks cost more because the engineering is more advanced. For some buyers, the extra investment pays off in comfort and reliability, but not everyone needs this level of performance.
• Heavier frame. Dual motor systems often have more robust steel frames, which means more weight. This is rarely a problem, but it is worth noting for people who plan to move the desk often.

Most professionals, creatives, and full time home workers prefer dual motor systems because they offer a better day to day experience. The extra strength, stability, and smoothness make long hours at the desk far more comfortable.

How Our Expertise Can Help

Not all adjustable desks are built to the same standard. A well engineered single motor desk can outperform a poorly built dual motor model. 

With 30 years of experience, strong warranties and a range built for the long-term, HADO designs both motor types with reliability in mind. Our fast delivery service also helps homes and offices upgrade without disruption.

Find out more about our adjustable desks. Simply contact our team for more details