Sure, with all the portable devices these days that emulate the functions of a desktop or laptop, you can pretty much do everything on a sofa or even sitting on your toilet bowl. But these are not as efficient, nor as practical as a computer station in your room. Or even better, a home office. With the growing work from home lifestyle showing no signs of slowing down, setting up a computer desk to serve as your dedicated workstation is a must. But how should you select the best computer desk to fit your needs? Read on for the most comprehensive computer desk buying guide!
Computer desk considerations
When choosing the right computer desk for your personal needs, have a checklist of main considerations. This helps you to choose confidently and efficiently. Avoiding the deer-in-the-headlights look on your face when you talk to the sales representative is worth it alone (assuming you’re buying from a face-to-face store). In any case, while your personal preferences can vary, the following points will work for most anyone’s computer desk selection process:
Size – Mainly for the overall length and width in relation to the surface area available, but also the height. Shape – While the traditional rectangular or square design is the standard, there are L-shaped and U-shaped desks available, as well. Ergonomics – Ergonomics isn’t only about the efficient use of space, but also ensuring you are comfortable and provides a healthy work environment. Materials – From the classic wood to the metal furnishings of modern designs, computer desks can fit into one of these. Features – Computer desks can have shelves, keyboard trays, drawers, wheels, and more which provide additional efficiency and productivity options. Style – If you are going to buy something, you might as well consider making it look good. You never know when you might need an Instagram-worthy selfie while working at your computer desk. Cost – It’s a given that you have to afford the computer desk you intend to buy, but how much should you dedicate for it? Find out here.
These points of consideration fits for all-encompassing decisions, though the weight of each will depend on your own lifestyles and tastes. On that note, this is for computer desks, specifically. Check out separate articles for a broader look at general purpose or antique desks.
Size
Unless you’re buying a portable lap desk you can take anywhere, size of your computer desk is a main consideration. But how much surface area should the desk take up? This would vary based on the size of the room. A good rule of thumb is it should not take up more than one fourth of the available surface area. This gives you ample room to move while also providing enough space to work comfortably and efficiently. Getting a larger computer desk than that, you will have to make compromises with movement and maneuverability. The computer desk should have space for your device, whether it is a laptop or a desktop, including the peripherals. While most people work fine with just the laptop and its built-in keyboard and touch pad, the more involved your job is, the more peripherals you will need. A separate keyboard (whether wired or wireless), mouse and mouse pad, writing or graphic tablet, external drives, additional monitors, and so on will take up the space. Even if you do not have them now, make concessions for their use in the future when deciding what size your computer desk should be. And then, of course, you have to consider what other non-computer peripherals you will be using. Space for your mobile phone or tablet and its charging dock (if any) would be nice. Room for pens, post-its, folders, notebooks, and ledgers for those who are not completely beholden to digital tools is also a matter of consideration. There should be enough space for all the things you will put within arm’s reach when choosing the computer desk to buy. Depth and height are two adjacent size considerations as well. The computer desk for your workstation should be enough for your legs to have room to move while sitting without regularly hitting the wall. Furthermore, the desk’s main flat surface should have clearance room for your knees. This is especially true when you choose a computer desk with a drop down computer tray as a feature (more on that later). If you want to guarantee the ideal size for your computer desk, take measurements the old fashioned way. This will eliminate the guesswork and uncertain estimates.
Shape
The old reliable rectangular or square computer desks are certainly the norm. However, they are also not the only option, if you have the space to work with.
Rectangular or Square – Simple and effective. Square shaped computer desks are an option for those with a limited space (like those in Japanese cubicles), but the rectangular shape is the most common and what people will tend to choose. L-Shape – This is essentially the equivalent of two computer desks connected at the end. Two for the price of one! Some computer desks with the L-Shape design will have one side smaller than the other, which helps maximize the available area. This is also a good option if you will be placing your computer workstation at the corner of the room. A great option for those who want available storage space for documents or using two monitors for multitasking.
U-Shape – If you have a LOT of space for your computer desk, then a U-Shape might be for you. Again, this is essentially multiple desks in one. This will take up a lot of the room, but if you have the space to spare, then go for it. But you have to make sure that it provides enough clearance for you to get around the room without blocking you from access (like the door, for example!). Corner – This shape is essentially the L-Shape, but the design is more like a cabinet than just a computer desk. This will commonly have the desk area in a diagonal format. It can be an effective use of space in the right conditions. Wall-mounted – This is technically not a shape, but more of a category. Wall-mounted computer desks are constructed in a similar way as wall-mounted shelves or cabinets. The advantage with these types of computer desks is that it can save space of the floor area, as these will not require legs. Modular – Another option that is not strictly about the shape of the computer desk, but in how it is designed. A modular computer desk allows you to mix and match, adjusting to the functions you need. It will have multiple options that you can choose to attach, such as an overhead shelf, space for speakers, and so on.
Ergonomics
Computer desk ergonomics is often misunderstood and pushed aside. But if you want to work comfortably and stay both physically and mentally healthy, always consider the ergonomics of your computer desk selection. After all, you will be spending hours upon hours sitting in front of your workstation. At the very least, you should not feel uncomfortable doing so. For one thing, when you buy a computer desk, you would also likely be buying a computer chair with it. Is there enough space between the chair and the desk for you to push back a bit and get off without hitting something along the way? If the chair has a footrest, can you deploy it and not be in an awkward sitting angle? When you recline on your computer chair, do your knees get too high that it collides with the desk surface? These are questions you need to ask before committing to buy a computer desk. One particular point about ergonomics for your computer desk is sufficient distance of your eyes away from the monitor. An arm’s length is the least distance you should aim for between your monitor and your eye. The height of the desk area should also place the top of the monitor parallel to your eye level. Trust me, this helps a lot with minimizing the stress on your vision.
Materials
The material composition of most computer desks these days are either manufactured wood composite, natural wood, glass, metal, and particle board.
Manufactured wood composite – This is the most common material for computer desks nowadays. It is comprised of compacted and compressed pieces made from recycled wood particles. This is generally cheaper than natural wood, but if it is good quality, should be just as sturdy. Natural wood – Natural wood material for your computer desk is as classic as they come. They will last for a long while and are pleasing to the eye. It adds a touch of class to your home office workstation. Just make sure it’s safe from termites.
Glass – Now, of course, you can’t get a completely glass desk, so this is just for the surface area. It looks nice and if you want that extra corporate feel for your computer desk, this can work. But make sure the glass is sufficiently thick, especially if you plan on putting a lot of stuff on it. Choose tempered glass to ensure its durability and stability. Metal – Metal computer desks are generally reliable and becoming more common. The flat surface, legs, and extremities will usually be made of stainless steel or aluminum. This is a good choice if you are going for an industrial or minimalist look for your workstation. They also require little attention for maintenance. Particle board – Particle board material is cheap and there are a lot of furniture being made with this. But we don’t particularly recommend this as a serious choice for your computer desk needs. Particle board is far less durable than manufactured wood composites. Moisture and water can get in particle board material which will eventually lead to it becoming brittle and collapse under sufficient weight. You would be lucky for a computer desk made of this material to last more than a year. Bottom line: stay away.
Features
If all you need a computer desk for is a surface for your laptop or desktop to be placed on, then really, any table would do, even a plastic one. A dedicated computer desk serves more than that function, however. Let’s look at some of the most common functions you should take into account when choosing what computer desk to buy:
Storage – Being able to store items is what most people would look for in a computer desk. Naturally, the more space for storage, the better. However, one thing I have learned is you can never get all the storage you will ever need. You will always fill it up, trust me. So if you can get a computer desk with cabinets and drawers built into it, then go for getting it. Filing cabinets are particularly recommended if you use the printer a lot. Keyboard tray – You can get by with having space on top of the computer desk for your keyboard, but a keyboard tray is a nice convenience to have. The keyboard tray should be stable when in use and it should slide effortlessly. It should also not cause injuries like scraping on your legs when being deployed. Hutch – It has become fairly common for a computer desk to have hutches or shelves. A hutch can add available space for efficient placement, such as room for your printer or scanner. Similar to cabinets and drawers, the more space it provides, the better. Wheels – A completely optional feature, a computer desk with wheels can be useful if you move things around your room a lot. Unlike your computer chair, your computer desk should be in a static position for the most part. With that said, having wheels lets you make changes to the positioning of your computer desk in relation to the other things in your home office. Just make sure that the locking mechanism is dependable. It can be quite annoying if the computer desk keeps moving and shifting around while you are busy at work. Wires management – Wires can be inconvenient to annoying to deal with. Most computer users do not have the luxury of a completely wireless rig and set up. If you can get a computer desk that has wire management as a feature, then it is highly recommended. Aside from avoiding a mess of wires, this helps with safety, preventing tangles and potential fire hazards. Wire management will often include holes and nooks where you can insert wires in an orderly fashion.
Style
Style is less about function and more about aesthetics. If you are going to be using something for a long while, making it look good doesn’t hurt. With regard to the style you choose for your computer desk purchase, consider the rest of your room. How does your room look before the addition of a computer desk? What colors would fit? If you have a bright room with white wallpaper, a solid black or metallic computer desk adds to the minimalist aesthetics. Perhaps your room is more traditional and rustic? A classic and robust wooden computer desk would certainly be a great complement to the ambiance. Do you want your room or home office to look more corporate or more like a comfortable study? If it’s the former, then a modern contemporary or industrial desk is ideal; if it is the latter, then a rustic wooden table or a classic study desk would be a better choice. It really does boil down to your personal tastes when it comes to considering the style of your computer desk. Moreover, there are some minor benefits to considering the style you would choose for your computer desk purchase. Related to ergonomics discussed earlier, the leg styles of the computer desk can contribute to it. For instance, a solid leg design uses up more space, but is far more stable. On the other hand, thinner leg styles use up less space and you are less likely to accidentally ram your toe on them (never a pleasant experience).
Cost
The final main consideration in choosing the right computer desk for your needs is how much it will cost. Do not buy something you can’t afford. A rough benchmark is this: if it is more expensive than your computer, you would be spending too much. Do not fall for the photos you see online or through advertising of overly expensive computer desk setups relying on looking good. And high prices do not equate to high quality (and related to that, do not ride on the brand name bandwagon either). For choosing a budget to get your computer desk, set an estimate of about $200 to $1000. Anything higher than that is just an indulgence. But with that said, if you can afford $2000 or more for it, get a custom computer desk built. Custom built desks will ensure you get the exact specifications that you want done. Nothing beats custom work done for your computer workstation, akin to a bespoke three-piece suit
Conclusion
More and more people are using computers, with the modern home having a computer setup as a fixture as commonly as a refrigerator or a TV set. A reliable and appropriate computer desk to serve as the main hub of your home office is therefore essential. This comprehensive guide of all the considerations regarding space, shape, ergonomics, features, style, and cost should provide you with everything you need to make an informed decision with buying the right computer desk that’s perfect for your needs. Regardless of whether you are buying at a physical store or ordering online, make a sound judgment of your purchase based on these points. Maximize your investment in purchasing a computer desk that fits the form, function, reliability, and versatility you are looking for. And while reviewing the product ratings is a good start, ultimately it should be based on your effective assessment in choosing the right computer desk to finally buy.
