Secretlab is well known for its gaming accessories, desks, and chairs. With the Magnus Pro, however, Secretlab has entered a whole new world with the ability to make this desk look professional while retaining its beloved customizable nature. This desk could be kitted out to be quite the gamer's paradise if desired. But, like any of the best standing desks we've tested, if kitted appropriately, this desk can become a sleek, blacked-out, highly functional professional workspace. Then, if desired, you can flash on some RBG lights on the integrated light strip and game the night away -- but only if you choose.
Secretlab Magnus Pro: Unboxing & first impressions
Right off the bat, this desk was unique. Most desks I have tested are a wood top, a wood veneer, MDF, reclaimed wood, or plywood in the cheapest model. I have never tested a metal-topped desk, though. It's a different feel for a desk. Usually, I choose darker woods; occasionally, I'll choose a light wood for a particular space or mood I am trying to match the desk to. With the Magnus Pro, you get to choose black or black. Granted, you can select a different leatherette deskpad that is essentially a giant mousepad but covers the entire desk.
So, the design idea for this desk was very different in my mind; it wasn't "how am I going to choose the right combination of legs and tabletop to match?" it was much more of an "okay, it's black, what accessories do I want to personalize this."
The desk's packaging was massive and cumbersome; everything came in big boxes. The assembly was pretty straightforward. Pieces fit together well, and instead of having to put a bracket on a slab of wood or wood-like material to attach the legs to the desktop, I could easily add legs to the mounting plate already on the desk's underside.
In addition to the cable management tray, I grabbed a handful of proprietary accessories to ensure my desk was as functional as possible for my workflows.
Secretlab Magnus Pro: Design & build quality
Desk Size: Available in 1.5m and 1.7m lengths.
Height Adjustment: 25.6" to 49.2" with millimeter precision.
Max Load Capacity: 265 lbs.
Construction: Steel frame with MDF and high-pressure laminate bamboo desktop.
Weight: 125 lbs for 1.5m, 150 lbs for 1.7m version.
Warranty: 5 years.
Secretlab was smart with this desk. Yes, it is covered in their steel casing. However, the middle of the desk is MDF to try and recover some weight and not make this desk just a block of steel. This combo allows for the Magnus Pro to have the features Secretlab wanted with the magnetic desktop and accessories but also not have the desk weigh a ton and cost an absurd amount of money.
One of the most apparent benefits of this desk is that it has built-in cable management and a slip-in back for cables to go into the cable tray without hanging off of the back of the desk. The rear cover is hinged and can open up for easier access, but it can also be closed to give a seamless look that I have yet to see on other desks.
Lastly, I'll mention the integrated control panel. Most desks have a panel attached to the wood so that you can use this leg setup on any desktop. However, Secretlab integrated its control panel, much like the Ergonofis Sway or the Beflo Tenon we've reviewed.
Secretlab Magnus Pro: In use
I have loved using this desk over the last month or so. It's been one of my highly flexible workstations because it can do almost anything I need. I have tried out Secretlab's monitor arms, entrusting the heavy-duty model to hold up a massive 40-inch monitor I am testing out. I have also tried out the MAGPAD desk mat, monitor riser/desk shelf, Nanoleaf Light strip, ethernet strip, and headphone hook. All these accessories utilize the magnetic nature of the desk to attach and keep things cleanly organized.
The light strip is fantastic for adding mood lighting to your workspace while maintaining the mantra of everything being tidy and organized. The monitor arms work perfectly with the cable tray and cable passthrough; they are high quality, and I could trust all monitors on the arms without issue. To keep cables from hanging off the desk to the ground, Secretlab engineered a way to run power through the left desk leg.
For those who want to use hardline ethernet, Secretlab has an accessory that does the same thing but for ethernet, too, giving a place to plug the line from the wall into the desk accessory and then plug the computer into the accessory, all while keeping everything clean and tidy.
I am about six foot two inches tall, and I have used some desks in the past that have not raised as high as I would ideally like them to. With the Magnus Pro, this is the first time I have experienced that problem, as the desk can reach a height of 49.2 inches and then drop down to 25.6 inches at a minimum.
Overall, this desk has been lovely to use. It's stable, highly modular, beautiful, and made with quality materials. It seamlessly bridges the gap between gamer personalization and business productivity and function, making it a unique desk that just about anyone would love to use.
Secretlab Magnus Pro: Final verdict
The Secretlab Magnus Pro stands out as a unique and highly functional standing desk ideal for professionals who value organization and functionality. Its excellent build quality, innovative cable management, and proprietary magnetic accessories justify its premium price. The overall design and performance make it a worthwhile investment for an ergonomic and clutter-free workspace. If you are looking for a highly modular desk and like the idea of a desk with a load of unique accessories that perfectly fit the desk system, then you should check out the Secretlab Magnus Pro Sit-to-Stand Metal Desk.
Kitting out your workspace for comfort and productivity? We reviewed the best standing desk mats and the best office chairs.
