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Computer Desks Buying Guide

You've just purchased a new computer  and now you are faced with a dilemma: where to put it? Perhaps a table or a desk, or maybe you would like to have a whole workstation? Luckily, there's a plethora of options available when it comes to choosing your computer desk.   You could be at this desk for more hours a day than you are anywhere else, so pick it with care. Remember, a comfortable desk (and chair ) could be the difference between enjoying work and hating it. Let us help you get started!

Considerations

  • Size should be a primary concern. Desks can get as big or as small as you'd like.
    • Do you want your whole life on this desk?
    • How much room do you have for this desk?
    • Do you have a flat screen monitor or a hulking CRT monitor?
      • Make sure that any shelving on top of the desk (often called a "hutch" ) is not to low or shallow for your monitor.
      • All of your purchases should come with dimensions — make sure they match up.
  • Ergonomics will ensure comfort in your work environment.
    • Does the desk have tilt options?
    • Can it be used standing or sitting?
    • Is it made with hypoallergenic  materials?
    • Is it large enough to allow for wheelchair access? 
  • Weight and Height
    • How much are you willing to carry?
    • How tall do you want it to climb?
    • At what level do you need the keyboard  and monitor? 
      • Normal desk heights of 29-30 inches are often too high for typing.
      • If you're of average height, you'll want to type at 26-28 inches,use the mouse at 27-29", and write at 28-30".
    • If you have a chair with armrests,  make sure they can fit under the desk.
    • Some desks come with standing or sitting styles for your typing convenience.
  • Wheels are sometimes nice to have, but can be a hazard.
  • Holes for Wires come in some desks or their accompanying hutches.
    • They're a great way to keep your area neat. Just thread your cords all through a single hole and they are out of your way.
    • Some desks even have special spots for surge protectors  to sit and collect all of your cords.
  • Adjustability: The more adjustable components your desk has (assuming they are sturdy) the more flexibility you'll have in creating an area that meets all your needs. 
    • Adjustable drawers,  trays,  heights, and doors will let you change your appliances over time and make your desk a smoothly running workstation.
  • Ease of Assembly
    • Will you be putting it together by yourself?
    • Do you want something pre-assembled?
    • Will it be Installed by someone else?
  • Warranty
    • Most mid-market desks will have 5-15 year warranties. Higher quality ones are guaranteed for longer.
    • Your warranty may say a lot about the quality you're buying.

Desks

Types

Rectangular 

A rectangular computer desk is nice, simple and classic. It usually has a good amount of storage drawers and shelves  above the computer to effectively organize all of your items.

L-Shaped 

These desks can fit in a corner or face one side of the room. They give you space to maneuver and perhaps even share the surface with someone else.

Corner 

A corner desk is a serious space-saver.  These desks give you everything you need and can be placed at an angle and maximize the space of your room.

Style

Antique  desks follow tradition and look classy while still being useful.

Modern  desks are sleek and chic.

Simple  desks are no-frills but do the trick.

Compact  desks save space and are perfect for small apartments and dorm rooms.

Executive  desks have many features and make you look and feel powerful.

Materials

Wood 

  • The quality of the wood will greatly affect the price.
  • A wood veneer  or paneling will be cheaper in price and quality.

Plastic 

  • These are lighter, cheaper, and come in just about any color. 
  • Could be combined with any number of other materials.
  • Poor construction and too many detachable parts could lead to some serious disrepair.

Metal 

  • These desks can vary greatly in weight or strength.
  • They can be cold and corporate or space-age and hip.
  • A sturdy option for those who are hard on their furniture.

Glass 

  • A glass desk is unique and the ultimate in streamlining.
  • Impossible to hide your papers.
  • Not for the clumsy.
  • Very modern but more elegant than metal or plastic.

Desktops

Leather  tops are classy and no-slip. Also provide a comfortable space to rest your arms.

Felt  has similar no-slip properties, without all the class, but it is cheaper and still quite comfy.

Glass  tops make everything clear. Just keep in mind that they are extremely fragile.

Extra Storage

Fire Safe 

  • This is a great way to organize all of your important papers by keeping them in one place.
  • They are fire resistant so you can be sure they will be protected.

Filing Cabinets 

Keyboard Trays 

  • These slide back and forth with your keyboard, mouse and/or monitor.
  • Make sure they're wide enough, since some don't fit a mouse pad. 

Shelves 

  • These can hold books,  CDs, or anything else you'd want to store.
  • You can purchase large, heavy duty shelves  like the ones pictured above or shelves that hang right over your desk.

Printer Stand 

  • A printer/copier stand makes it possible to either store these items underneath your desk or put them on a rolling tray with wheels  for convenience.

Related Guides

Office Chairs

Office Furniture

Office Machines and Technology

Office Supplies

Desk Lamps

External Links