Uplift V2 vs Fully Jarvis: The Definitive Standing Desk Comparison
I do not currentlu own a standing desk. My current home office setup is high-end contemporary with some custom components and I have an array of monitors that are configured very specifically to fit the needs of the software that I use and my work patterns. I also do not typically sit at my desk for long stretches - I take frequent calls which I do standing and pacing up and down. However, I have recently become aware thar there may be some benefits even for my non-standard work patterns with proper use of a standing desk and this is what initiated this research.
The Uplift V2 and Fully Jarvis have long dominated standing desk discussions as the two most recommended options for serious home office setups. Both desks share remarkably similar DNA—manufactured by the same Chinese company (JieCang) and offering comparable features at nearly identical price points. Yet despite these similarities, expert testing and user feedback reveal meaningful differences in stability, customization, and long-term value that should inform your decision.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Uplift V2 | Fully Jarvis |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range (48" desk) | $599-$700+ | $600-$750+ (when available) |
| Height Range | 25.5"-51.1" (with 1" top) | 25.5"-51" (with 1" top) |
| Weight Capacity | 355 lbs | 350 lbs |
| Speed | 1.3" per second | 1.3" per second |
| Frame Warranty | 15 years | 15 years (previously 7) |
| Stability (BTOD.com) | Better (wedge system) | Good (no wedge system) |
| Motor Type | Standard JieCang | Upgraded (since 2017) |
| Customization Options | Extensive (20+ tops) | Good (limited since shutdown) |
| Control Panel | Digital (non-touch) | OLED touchscreen |
| Availability | Direct, ships same day | Limited (Herman Miller only) |
Uplift V2: The Customization Champion
The Uplift V2 represents the third-generation design from Texas-based Uplift Desk, incorporating refinements based on years of user feedback and competitive analysis. According to BTOD.com's detailed teardown and testing, the V2 introduced a wedge stability system to the frame base that significantly reduces wobble compared to the original V1 and competing desks without this feature.
Uplift's defining characteristic is customization breadth. The company offers over 20 desktop materials ranging from budget-friendly laminate ($599 starting price) to premium solid walnut and live-edge woods that can push prices past $1,500. Tom's Guide notes you can configure the desk with centered or offset legs, add crossbars for maximum stability, and choose from an ecosystem of hundreds of accessories—from monitor arms to under-desk hammocks. This modularity makes Uplift particularly appealing for users building complete workstation setups rather than just buying a desk.
Uplift V2 Strengths
- Superior stability via wedge system
- Extensive customization (20+ tops, 4 frame types)
- Optional crossbar for maximum stability
- Free shipping, same-day dispatch
- More caster options (4 types)
- Higher weight capacity (355 lbs)
- ANSI/BIFMA certified
- Excellent customer service (4.9 Google rating)
Uplift V2 Limitations
- Non-touch control panel (vs Jarvis OLED)
- Standard motors (not upgraded like Jarvis)
- Can feel overwhelming with options
- Premium tops get very expensive
Fully Jarvis: The Refined Performer
The Fully Jarvis built its reputation on simplicity and sustainability before MillerKnoll's acquisition ended the brand's independent operations. According to BTOD.com's technical analysis, Jarvis made a significant upgrade in November 2017 by introducing an improved motor with internalized gearing and upgraded bearing systems—changes that Uplift hasn't matched. This motor refinement makes the Jarvis mechanically superior in its drivetrain, though the difference is subtle in daily use.
Design-wise, the Jarvis emphasized clean Scandinavian aesthetics with its bamboo tops and minimalist frame options. Gear Patrol highlighted its lightweight construction (92 pounds) and eco-friendly materials sourced from sustainable bamboo farms. The OLED touchscreen control panel offered a more premium feel than Uplift's standard digital display. However, these advantages are now largely academic—since MillerKnoll shuttered Fully.com, the Jarvis is only available through Herman Miller in limited configurations at potentially higher prices.
Jarvis Strengths
- Upgraded motors (since 2017)
- Premium OLED touchscreen control
- Lighter weight (easier to move)
- Clean, minimalist aesthetic
- Sustainable bamboo sourcing
- Excellent build quality
- Curved desktop options
Jarvis Limitations
- No wedge stability system
- More wobble at standing height
- No crossbar option
- Limited availability (Herman Miller only)
- Fewer customization options now
- No ANSI/BIFMA certification
- Smaller leveling foot range (0.25" vs 0.38")
Head-to-Head Comparison: Where They Differ
Price & Value
Both desks start around $600 for a basic 48" configuration and can exceed $1,000 with premium materials and accessories. According to price tracking across multiple review sources, neither offers a clear budget advantage at base level. However, Uplift's frequent promotions and free shipping give it a slight edge in total cost.
Where they diverge is value proposition. Uplift includes more standard features (cable management tray, broader warranty) and offers volume discounts for multiple desks. The now-defunct Fully.com offered simpler pricing with fewer upsells. Current Jarvis pricing through Herman Miller may be higher and less transparent. Winner: Uplift V2 for current availability and transparent pricing.
Features & Technology
Both desks offer identical core functionality: 4 programmable height presets, collision detection, and similar height ranges (25.5"-51"). Speed is identical at 1.3 inches per second with soft start/stop.
The Jarvis edges ahead with its OLED touchscreen control panel (versus Uplift's non-touch digital display) and upgraded motor internals introduced in 2017. However, Uplift counters with more practical features: ANSI/BIFMA certification, better leveling feet (0.38" vs 0.25" compensation), and four caster options versus Jarvis's single option. According to user feedback analysis, most people prioritize stability features over touchscreen controls. Winner: Tie (different strengths for different priorities).
Build Quality & Stability
This is where the most significant difference emerges. BTOD.com's WobbleMeter testing and comparative analysis found the Uplift V2 demonstrably more stable at standing heights, particularly when configured with the optional crossbar. Although I have not experienced this directly, the measurement approach is sensible and intuitive.
The key difference is Uplift's wedge stability system integrated into the frame base—a structural enhancement Jarvis lacks. Multiple user reports, including detailed feedback from Hacker News users who own both desks, confirm the stability gap: "Uplift (with crossbar) has vastly superior stability at standing heights. The Jarvis has noticeable sway just using a keyboard and mouse, while the Uplift remains stable even when pounding on music gear."
Both desks use similar steel frames and JieCang lifting columns, but Uplift's wedge system and tighter column tolerances reduce the wobble that plagues frameless two-leg designs. StandingDeskTopper's detailed analysis notes Jarvis users should opt for 60"+ tops to minimize wobble, while Uplift performs better with narrower configurations. Winner: Uplift V2 decisively.
Warranty & Support
Both brands originally offered 15-year frame warranties, though Jarvis initially launched with 7 years before matching Uplift's coverage. Electrical components carry shorter warranties (typically 3-5 years for both).
Post-shutdown, warranty support for existing Jarvis desks transfers to Herman Miller, a company with century-long furniture expertise and robust support infrastructure. Uplift maintains its direct customer service with a 4.9 Google rating across thousands of reviews. BTOD.com notes Uplift's same-day shipping and 30-day free return policy as significant advantages for current buyers. Fully.com previously offered free shipping on replacement parts, but this policy's status under Herman Miller is unclear.
For new purchases, Uplift's direct-to-consumer model and proven support record make it the safer choice. For existing Jarvis owners, Herman Miller's backing provides confidence. Winner: Uplift V2 for new buyers.
Which Standing Desk Should You Buy?
Choose Uplift V2 if:
- You prioritize stability and minimal wobble at standing height
- You want maximum customization options (20+ desktop materials, accessories)
- You need a desk available now with fast shipping
- You plan to use monitor arms or have heavy equipment
- You want ANSI/BIFMA certification for commercial use
- You may add a crossbar for maximum stability
Choose Fully Jarvis (via Herman Miller) if:
- You prioritize minimalist aesthetic over maximum stability
- You want the upgraded motor technology (2017+)
- You prefer OLED touchscreen controls
- You have access to Herman Miller showrooms for testing
- You're specifically seeking Herman Miller service/warranty
- You're buying a secondhand Jarvis at significant discount
The Bottom Line
For most buyers in 2025-2026, Uplift V2 is the clear choice. Its superior stability, broader availability, extensive customization, and proven customer service make it the safer investment. The Jarvis's motor upgrades and touchscreen are nice refinements, but they don't overcome the stability gap or limited availability. Unless you're committed to Herman Miller's ecosystem or find a great deal on a used Jarvis, the Uplift V2 offers better value and performance for serious standing desk users. Based on the studies of the data that our team has looked at, I am personally inclined towards the Uplift as the best fit for my own work patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both desks use frames manufactured by JieCang (Zhejiang Jiecang Linear Motion Technology Co Ltd), a Chinese company specializing in linear motion products. According to BTOD.com's teardown analysis, the core components are nearly identical, though each brand has made proprietary modifications. Jarvis upgraded their motors in 2017 with improved bearings and internalized gearing, while Uplift added a wedge stability system to their frame base. Think of it like different car models using the same platform—shared DNA with distinct refinements.
Based on BTOD.com's WobbleMeter testing and user reports, the difference is noticeable but not dramatic at sitting heights (both perform excellently). At standing heights (40"+ extended), the gap widens—Uplift shows measurably less side-to-side wobble due to its wedge system. Users on Hacker News who own both desks describe Jarvis having "noticeable sway" during normal keyboard use at standing height, while Uplift "remains stable even when pounding on music gear." Adding Uplift's optional crossbar ($75-100) further reduces wobble to nearly zero. For light computer work, both are adequate; for heavy typing, multiple monitors, or sensitive work, Uplift's stability advantage becomes significant.
Yes, but with limitations. After MillerKnoll shut down Fully.com in 2021, the Jarvis became available exclusively through Herman Miller and Design Within Reach in limited configurations. You'll find fewer customization options, potentially higher prices, and different service policies compared to the original Fully.com experience. Alternatively, you may find used Jarvis desks on secondary markets (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp) at discounted prices—a worthwhile option if you can inspect before buying and verify the warranty transfer. However, for new purchases with full support and options, Uplift is now the more practical choice.
The motor upgrade Jarvis implemented in late 2017 (internalized gearing, improved bearings) is technically superior to Uplift's standard JieCang motor. However, according to BTOD.com's analysis and user feedback, the real-world performance difference is subtle—both desks lift smoothly and quietly at the same 1.3"/second speed. The motor difference might matter for commercial environments with dozens of daily adjustments over many years, but for home office users adjusting 4-10 times daily, it's negligible. Uplift's stability advantage, broader availability, and extensive customization outweigh the marginal motor benefit for most buyers. If you specifically want the best motor technology and find a Jarvis at equal or better pricing, it's a valid reason to choose it—but don't let motor specs alone drive your decision.
Based on user reviews and stability testing, the answer depends on your setup and sensitivity to wobble. If you're using monitor arms (especially cheaper ones), have a desk wider than 60 inches, regularly extend the desk above 45 inches, or are sensitive to movement, the crossbar ($75-100 typically) is worth it—users report it essentially eliminates wobble. If you have a narrower desk (48-60"), keep it at lower standing heights (40-42"), or use a monitor stand instead of arms, the wedge system alone provides adequate stability. The V2 Commercial version includes the crossbar standard. Many users recommend buying the base V2 first, testing stability with your actual setup, then adding the crossbar only if needed—it's a simple retrofit that doesn't require disassembly.
Explore More Options: See our complete Best Standing Desks 2025-2026 guide for all price ranges, or check out Budget Standing Desks Under $300 for more affordable alternatives.
Research Methodology: This comparison synthesizes analysis from BTOD.com's hands-on testing and teardowns, Tom's Guide and Gear Patrol's reviews, StandingDeskTopper's detailed comparisons, user feedback from Hacker News and Reddit communities, manufacturer specifications, and warranty documentation. Neither desk was tested firsthand for this article—all conclusions are based on expert consensus and verified user experiences.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Home Outfitter Guides earns from qualifying purchases. This means we may earn a small commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on independent research and real user feedback — we never accept payment for placement.
Last Updated: December 2025 | Note: Fully Jarvis availability and pricing subject to Herman Miller's current offerings.