Best Overall
The 17 Stories Kinslee Desk
- This desk is ergonomically designed for both tall and short users, with ample monitor space and adjustable under-desk shelving.
This desk is ergonomically designed for both tall and short users, with ample monitor space and adjustable under-desk shelving.
- The particle board may crack if you tighten the screws too tightly, and it can sustain dents from bumping into walls or other furniture.
The particle board may crack if you tighten the screws too tightly, and it can sustain dents from bumping into walls or other furniture.
Overall, our top choice is the 17 Stories Kinslee Desk for its large monitor shelf, ample storage space, and ergonomic design to prevent neck straining.
It's available in a variety of color choices, including carbon black and white wash, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into any new or existing space. And, the under-desk shelving is adjustable and removable, so you can customize it to best fit your needs and store objects like books and speakers. Plus, it’s created with a high-quality P2 grade particle board that not only meets the standard of the California air resource boards (CARB) but also receives a special treatment to become heat, scratch, and water-proof to give it longevity.
Still, it’s not as durable as solid wood desks, so make sure you assemble it carefully. Be sure not to over-tighten any screws to prevent cracks, and carefully slide the desk in place to prevent it from bumping into walls or other furniture and sustaining a dent.
Measuring 55 inches across, this desk is great for those with a large, dedicated home office space. We recommend putting it flush against a wall since it may cover the bottom of your window, depending on the layout of your space. The monitor shelf is 33.7 inches tall, while the larger tablespace is 29.7 inches, making this a great option for tall and short users. We love this for remote workers, dedicated gamers, and other professions where you need ample workspace to create and operate.
Product Details: Size: 33.46 x 55.22 x 23.64 inches | Storage: Four exterior shelves | Material: Manufactured wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 70 pounds | Colors: Eight colors available
Best Budget
Ikea Micke Desk
- The desk's design cleverly hides cables in the back, plus the legs can be mounted to the right or left.
The desk's design cleverly hides cables in the back, plus the legs can be mounted to the right or left.
- The instructions are vague, and it's challenging to assemble alone.
The instructions are vague, and it's challenging to assemble alone.
If you’re furnishing your office on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the Micke desk from Ikea. Its clean and simple design can fit into just about any office aesthetic, yet it can also combine with other Ikea furniture to customize your workspace.
The desk’s design cleverly hides cables in the back, so you don’t have a tangle of wires everywhere, making it easy to keep your space neat. Plus, the legs can be mounted to the right or left, which can be helpful when you’re working with limited space. The entire desk is made of particleboard and fiberboard and is durable enough to last for years. It also comes in two finishes, white or black-brown, and has a large desk drawer to store your laptop, papers, and other items.
One of the downsides to this desk is the vague instructions. There are only pictures, so it helps to look up tutorials online. The instructions also recommend having a partner help you assemble the desk. Measuring 29.5 inches high and 28.75 inches wide, the Micke desk is an ideal option for small spaces. However, taller users may prefer to find something slightly higher to avoid strain. On its own, it’s a great option for teens who need their own workspace to do homework, study, and more.
Product Details: Size: 28.75 x 19.62 x 29.5 inches | Storage: One large drawer in the center | Material: Particleboard | Maximum Bearing Weight: 110 pounds | Colors: White, white/anthracite, black-brown, anthracite/red
Best Small
Zipcode Design Kendal Desk
- The X-design of the legs provides more stability than other options and prevents the desk from wobbling.
The X-design of the legs provides more stability than other options and prevents the desk from wobbling.
- It can sometimes stick when folding or unfolding.
It can sometimes stick when folding or unfolding.
The Kendal desk is a great choice for those looking to maximize their small office spaces.
Created with a wood top and iron frame, it has an open design to keep all your favorite supplies in view—and to avoid the hassle of digging through unorganized draws to find something. It also has a single shelf which is the ideal spot to customize your desk with books, plants, or other small decor items. However, it’s also big enough to house an extra monitor alongside a laptop.
Since it’s foldable, the desk is easy to maneuver or put away if you need to use the space for other purposes (note that it can sometimes stick when folding or unfolding). Plus, its simple yet understated design looks great on its own or paired with your existing furniture.
It measures 32.7 inches tall and has 27 inches worth of leg room, making it an ideal choice for users of all heights. The X-design of the legs lends the desk more stability than other options, so it won’t wobble. Since it has a higher shelf, we recommend putting this against a wall to prevent it from covering the bottom of a window. Use it for completing tasks, remote work, gaming, and more.
Product Details: Size: 32.7 x 32.08 x 32.48 inches | Storage: One small top shelf | Material: Manufactured wood and iron | Maximum Bearing Weight: 90 pounds | Colors: Brown-black, oak-black
Best Large
Crate and Barrel Tate Stone Desk with Outlet
- The desk is wide enough to accommodate any desk chair with or without arms, so you can sit comfortably and tuck in your chair when you’re done working.
The desk is wide enough to accommodate any desk chair with or without arms, so you can sit comfortably and tuck in your chair when you’re done working.
- Some users find the location of the outlets not very functional, and the drawers don't pull out far enough.
Some users find the location of the outlets not very functional, and the drawers don't pull out far enough.
Created with a mid-century design and tailored shape, this desk from Crate and Barrel is ideal for larger office spaces. It has three center drawers for storing all your office necessities, including supplies, snacks, and more, yet also gives an oversized workspace for a larger laptop or monitor and still leave ample room for a desk lamp.
Made of birch and stone-tinted ash veneer material, it’s sturdy enough to survive years of usage, so you won’t have to replace it often or at all. Also nice: the desk was created with two outlets and USB ports to avoid unnecessary cord tangling, hide pesky wires, and make accessing your cords as simple as can be.
It’s available in two widths—48 or 60 inches—and measures 30.75 inches tall, with a 24.5-inch area for your legs. We love that it’s wide enough to accommodate any desk or office chair with or without arms, so you can sit comfortably and tuck in your chair when you’re done working. Given its large surface area, this is a great option for a remote office or teens who need a space to complete their homework. It also comes in two neutral finishes that can match any decor.
Product Details: Size: 48 x 22 x 30.75 inches | Storage: Three center drawers | Material: Solid birch, engineered wood, and ash veneer | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Stone gray, walnut
Best With Storage
Better Homes and Gardens Bedford Leaning Desk
- It’s a great multipurpose option for an apartment or small office because it doubles as a work space and a shelf.
It’s a great multipurpose option for an apartment or small office because it doubles as a work space and a shelf.
- The surface area for working is smaller than with a regular desk.
The surface area for working is smaller than with a regular desk.
Cuteness aside, this option from our very own Walmart partnership made it onto our list because it’s super practical. The desk features a detailed wood grain finish and ladder-like shelves, making it a great all-in-one piece for keeping you organized while you work.
The desk also doubles as a place to display and store decorative items such as picture frames and plants. We also think it makes a fantastic vanity to store makeup and personal items if you outgrow it as a desk. Just don’t be alarmed by the way it leans, (we promise it’s absolutely sturdy). As long as you install it properly using the brackets that come with the desk, you should be able to attach it firmly to your wall.
At 71 inches tall and 33 inches wide, the piece leaves a pretty small area for actually working—it’s probably best for a laptop and a notebook or two rather than a large monitor setup. Our advice is to keep as little as possible on your desk while you work to stay organized. Still, the shelves make it worthwhile, and we would definitely suggest it to anyone living in a small apartment.
Overall, it’s a versatile option that can be used in many ways other than as a traditional workspace. We just wish that it came with drawers for even more storage. The desk is available in two colors: gray and ivory.
Size: 33.2 x 19.2 x 71.5 inches | Storage: Shelves | Material: Wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Gray, ivory
Best Standing Desk
SHW Large Electric Adjustable Computer Desk
- It's available in three size options and seven color choices, including black and walnut.
It's available in three size options and seven color choices, including black and walnut.
- It's limited in terms of built-in storage.
It's limited in terms of built-in storage.
The SHW Electric Standing Desk is an adjustable desk that can move up or down, allowing the incorporation of movement into a work day.
Since it has a motorized lift, it’s adjustable and can move from 28 to 45 inches in height. The desk also has four memory preset options, so you can easily move it to your desired position, and built-in grommets to help you keep your cords organized. Built with high-grade industrial steel, it’s easy to clean and can withstand any potential spills.
It's available in three size options—40 inches, 48 inches, and 55 inches—and seven different color choices, including black and walnut. Unfortunately, this option is limited in terms of built-in storage. There is a hook on the side that can hold headphones or backpacks, but if you want something to organize papers, pens, or other items you will need to buy organizers to sit on top of the desk. Fortunately, it has such a wide tabletop that you should still have plenty of room for your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and other items, such as a tabletop fan.
Also, note that it doesn’t come assembled, and you will need a partner to help you unless you buy the expert assembly for an additional cost.
Product Details: Size: 24 x 40 x 28 inches | Storage: One cord basket and one hook | Material: Industrial-grade steel | Maximum Bearing Weight: 110 pounds | Colors: Black, cherry, maple, oak, rustic brown, walnut, white
Best L-Shaped
Pottery Barn Cayman Desk
- Its minimalist design can seamlessly integrate into just about any decor.
Its minimalist design can seamlessly integrate into just about any decor.
- It's expensive and doesn't come assembled.
It's expensive and doesn't come assembled.
This desk from Pottery Barn is a new take on an L-shaped desk, allowing you the option to fan out or fold in its end endpiece to better fit into your space.
With a minimalist design, it will integrate into just about any decor seamlessly. It’s a statement piece that’ll last you many years, thanks to its understated yet classic silhouette and rounded edges. Plus, it’s built with solid mango and birch-engineered wood that’s reclaimed from India, so each piece has different scratches, color variations, stations, repair patches, and natural imperfections, which makes each piece unique.
It has a 50-inch width and 30-inch height, making it suitable for users of all sizes. It doesn’t come assembled, and you will likely need a partner to assemble it safely. However, Pottery Barn does offer a White Glove Service for an additional cost.
It also doesn’t come with any storage, but with such ample tabletop space, you can easily add organizers on top to keep things neat. Although it’s one of the more expensive options on this list, we think it’s worth the price for its durability and customizability.
Product Details: Size: 50 x 20 x 30 inches | Storage: No internal storage, only external on the desktop | Material: Solid mango wood and birch engineered wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 200 pounds | Colors: Warm black, biscotti
Best Skinny
Urban Outfitters Marisol Desk
- Its stylishly arched frame, rounded edges, and dual center drawers give it a luxurious look.
Its stylishly arched frame, rounded edges, and dual center drawers give it a luxurious look.
- You will need a pad to cover up the woven surface if you plan to use this desk for writing or have a mouse for your computer.
You will need a pad to cover up the woven surface if you plan to use this desk for writing or have a mouse for your computer.
If you’re searching for a skinny desk that adds a vintage-inspired feel to the office, you’ll love this Marison Rattan Desk from Urban Outfitters.
Its arched frame, rounded edges, and dual center drawers give it a stylish design that not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also extremely luxe. With an all-over rattan basket-like, woven construction, it will truly take any space to the next level. Note: Since it’s made from natural rattan, there will be a variance in the hue of the piece. To clean it, simply wipe it down with a soft dry cloth.
The center drawers are shallow but they have a long depth, so they can still hold a few papers and other items you may want to conceal. If you plan to use this desk for writing or have a mouse for your computer, we recommend getting a desk pad or mousepad since the woven surface is not smooth.
Measuring 30 inches tall, it can accommodate users of any height and should easily fit desk chairs with or without arms. It comes fully assembled, so you can place it anywhere you want upon opening the box. Overall, this is a stylish pick and reliable pick.
Product Details: Size: 44.25 x 20.25 x 30 inches | Storage: Two drawers in the center | Material: Rattan | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Natural
Best Adjustable Height
West Elm Mid-Century Desk
- It’s made with kiln-dried, sustainably sourced wood, which adds durability and prevents it from splintering.
It’s made with kiln-dried, sustainably sourced wood, which adds durability and prevents it from splintering.
- The drawer front is purely decorative and isn't functional.
The drawer front is purely decorative and isn't functional.
Those sharing an office space, whether it be with a roommate or partner, will adore this desk from West Elm.
This one is height-adjustable, meaning it can move up and down from fully seated to standing, and it locks into place at its highest setting to ensure it’s secure — combining the functionality of a standing desk with midcentury style. In addition, it’s made with kiln-dried, sustainably sourced wood, including acacia veneer over engineered wood and solid eucalyptus wood, which adds durability and prevents it from splintering. With three interior storage compartments underneath the top, there is plenty of space to store everything from important papers to office supplies, too.
To keep the look of a traditional desk, there is a drawer look on the front, but it does not open. The desk needs to be assembled with a partner; however, West Elm does offer a White Glove Service for an additional cost.
The desk measures 36 inches wide and can be toggled between 31- and 42-inch heights. It has a 25-inch under-desk clearance, making it appropriate for users of average height. If you have particularly long legs, you may need to find a taller option. The desk can hold up to 100 pounds and is wide enough to house two small monitors if needed.
Product Details: Size: 36 x 19.5 x 31 inches | Storage: Three interior storage compartments | Material: Kiln-dried wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 100 pounds | Colors: Brown
Best Glass-Top
Everly Quinn Kiayra Desk
- The desk has a generous weight capacity and comes with a one-year limited warranty.
The desk has a generous weight capacity and comes with a one-year limited warranty.
- It's not as sturdy as a wood or steel desk.
It's not as sturdy as a wood or steel desk.
Designed with a tempered glass top, this Everly Quinn Kiayra Glass Desk is a fabulous pick if you’re looking to add a bit of elegance to your existing office space.
Its top has ample space for a laptop and dual monitors, and it can easily change the appearance of your entire office with the addition of a cool desk chair. It has a generous weight capacity of 200 pounds, so you can easily add storage organizers to the tabletop to keep things tidy. We also love that the desk frame comes in two color options, gold and black, to go with any color scheme.
While it won’t be as sturdy as a wood or steel desk, this glass top desk does have a bar underneath the center to add extra stability. It requires a partner for assembly, but it does come together quickly. It’s 30 inches tall and has an under-desk height of 29 inches, making it a great option for short and tall users. As a bonus, it also comes with a one-year limited warranty should anything happen to it.
Product Details: Size: 30 x 46.7 x 31.5 inches | Storage: No internal storage, only external on the desktop | Material: Tempered glass, steel | Maximum Bearing Weight: 100 pounds | Colors: Black, gold
Best Wood
Pottery Barn USB Folding Wall Desk
- It only requires installing five screws and anchors to assemble.
It only requires installing five screws and anchors to assemble.
- You will need an extra pair of hands to help you anchor it to the wall.
You will need an extra pair of hands to help you anchor it to the wall.
Give your office a rustic feel with this wood desk option from Pottery Barn.
Its space-saving design is efficient and folds down to maximize the space in your room. Overall, the desk folds out 16 inches away from the wall, so it’s decently sized. Although the desk is smaller, it still provides plenty of space and can be easily incorporated into nearly any layout without taking up too much room. In addition, it has two USB ports and a removable tray to hold your essentials when you’re using the desk.
We’d be remiss not to mention that it easily comes together and only requires installing five screws and anchors to assemble. However, keep in mind that you still may need a partner to help you install it into the wall.
It comes in two neutral color options to blend in with any decor style and should have ample leg room since you can decide where to place it. This is a great option for teens who need a desk for homework or those working from home in small spaces.
Product Details: Size: 31.5 x 15.75 x 8.25 inches | Storage: One removable center tray | Material: Wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: White, fog
Best Acrylic
CB2 Peekaboo Console Table
- It's super simple to clean with a bit of soap and water and can be repurposed as decor in any room.
It's super simple to clean with a bit of soap and water and can be repurposed as decor in any room.
- There is no built-in storage, and the acrylic does scratch easily.
There is no built-in storage, and the acrylic does scratch easily.
CB2’s Acrylic Console Table is a great option for those looking to modernize their office space with something acrylic.
Made with 7-inch-thick molded acrylic, it can hold plenty of items, including your computer monitor, a cup of pencils, and more. However, many acrylic desks don’t have built-in storage, so it’s best to ensure you have tabletop storage or another storage solution for your office supplies. It’s also super easy to clean with a bit of soap and water. The best part? When you’re ready to change up your office, you can incorporate this desk into the decor of any room, including the entryway, living room, and more, as a side table.
This desk measures 38 inches wide and 29 inches tall, making it comfortable for users of any height. Unfortunately, acrylic does scratch easily, so it may be best to purchase a runner or desk mat to preserve its lifespan. It costs around $400, making it one of the more affordable options on this list. We recommend styling it with a bold-colored desk chair for a completed look.
Product Details: Size: 38 x 15.25 x 29 inches | Storage: No internal storage, only external on the desktop | Material: Thick molded acrylic | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Transparent
Best Corner
Room and Joy Fieldstone Desk
- This budget-friendly desk is available in five color options and is quick to assemble.
This budget-friendly desk is available in five color options and is quick to assemble.
- It needs a desk mat to help protect the top from scratches.
It needs a desk mat to help protect the top from scratches.
If you’re looking to make the most of corner space, an L-shaped desk like this one from Fieldstone is your best bet. It fits snuggly into tight corners to make the most of your home office space and provides a large desktop surface to place your monitor, laptop, or other electronic devices.
Since it has two built-in grommets, the desk ensures your cords stay organized yet it still provides plenty of space for books, pencils, and other important office essentials thanks to its two open shelves on the side. The tabletop can support up to 100 pounds, while the shelves can hold up to 35 pounds each. And it comes in five different color options, including black oak and dove gray.
It’s made of particle board, so it’s not as durable as some of the other options on our list. We recommend getting a desk mat to help protect the top from scratches. It does need to be assembled with a partner, so keep that in mind when purchasing. Still, it comes together quickly and is a reliable option for working from home and other tasks. Even better, it costs less than $200, making this a budget-friendly pick as well.
Product Details: Size: 28.25 x 51.3125 x 53.625 inches | Storage: Two shelves | Material: Laminated MDF and particleboard | Maximum Bearing Weight: Desktop: 100 pounds; Side shelves: 35 pounds | Colors: Black oak, white/rustic, espresso, rustic oak, dove gray
Best Lap Desk
LapGear Home Office Lap Desk
- It comes in two versions to accommodate right- and left-handed users, with a dual-bolster cushion for cooling comfort.
It comes in two versions to accommodate right- and left-handed users, with a dual-bolster cushion for cooling comfort.
- The mouse may slip down when you’re not holding it.
The mouse may slip down when you’re not holding it.
This lap desk from LapGear is an excellent choice for those who typically work from their couch, bed, or other atypical office space. It can be effortlessly transported from room to room yet still allows you to be productive on your laptop or portable device.
Designed to make your work more efficient, its versatile design also works as a TV tray or a place to put your pencil and paper to take notes. It also has a wide plastic surface, including a device ledge, integrated mouse pad, and phone slot, to make the most of its space. Note: Since it has a slanted design, the mouse may slip down when you’re not holding it.
It can hold 15.6-inch laptops comfortably, so if you have a 16-inch laptop or larger it may be a snug fit. We also appreciate that it comes in two versions to accommodate right- and left-handed users. The dual-bolster cushion feels especially comfortable and cooling. The best part? It only costs around $40, making this an extremely budget-friendly pick.
Product Details: Size: 21.1 x 12 x 2.6 inches | Storage: Phone slot | Material: Plastic | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Black carbon, blush pink, espresso woodgrain, gray woodgrain, silver carbon, white marble
Best for Gaming
Homall Ergonomic Computer Desk
- The desk has an extra-wide surface area to accommodate gaming equipment that takes up more space than other tech.
The desk has an extra-wide surface area to accommodate gaming equipment that takes up more space than other tech.
- There’s no motor—the height can only be adjusted manually.
There’s no motor—the height can only be adjusted manually.
Serious and casual gamers alike can appreciate the Homall’s large 63-inch surface area and ergonomic design made especially for gaming in comfort. This desk size is large enough to hold multiple monitors and a gaming console, and comes with organizers to keep your accessories in one place.
Because it’s so big, we recommend measuring your room to be sure there is enough space for it to slide in. The height is adjustable, with a range from 27.6 inches to 31.5 inches. Tall users will never have to deal with too-little leg room, while shorter people can cut down on backstrain. Bear in mind that the desk is not motorized, so you’ll have to take it apart manually to adjust the height.
This is also a great choice if you like lots of add-ons. It has a cup holder, gaming equipment brackets at the foot of the desk, wire holes to keep your cords organized, and a plastic headset holder. The desk also features a built-in mouse pad with an S-shaped logo that covers as well as protects the top of the desk. This part can be removed. Unfortunately, the desk doesn’t have drawers or shelves to store your items. But, there is an elastic pocket underneath the desk’s surface which you could use as an alternative.
Product Details: Size: 63 x 28.9 inches | Storage: One elastic pocket | Material: Manufactured wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 220 pounds | Colors: Black
Best For Home Office
Better Homes and Gardens Glendale Transitional Desk
- It has two drawers, including a spacious file drawer with extension slides to help you organize paperwork.
It has two drawers, including a spacious file drawer with extension slides to help you organize paperwork.
- It’s not adjustable, which may be a downside especially for those who like to switch between sitting and standing.
It’s not adjustable, which may be a downside especially for those who like to switch between sitting and standing.
While we wouldn’t exactly classify our Better Homes and Gardens Glendale Transitional Desk as extra-spacious, the 47 inches offers enough space for a laptop or larger computer, plus some other materials. Rustic wood oak veneer gives the desk a charming and rustic look while keeping the piece affordable.
The desk consists of two spacious drawers with black metal handles stacked on one side. There’s a smaller, more shallow drawer on top, perfect for stashing pencils, pens, and notepads, and a larger drawer below. The bottom drawer is meant to hold files, and features extension slides to organize papers and folders.
It’s easy to assemble, with an instruction manual that includes plenty of pictures to clearly demonstrate how to put the pieces together. Since we’re recommending it for a home office, we would have loved a convertibility aspect to easily switch between sitting and standing. There are plenty of standing desks and converters on the market, but if you want a traditional desk, this one fits the bill in more ways than one.
Product Details: Size: 47.2 x 17.1 x 28.7 inches | Storage: Two drawers | Material: Wood composite | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Dark oak, rustic gray
Best for Students
Mainstay Desk and Office Chair with Better Homes and Gardens Cube Storage
- This dorm-friendly study set is a great deal because it includes a chair and a storage cube in addition to the desk.
This dorm-friendly study set is a great deal because it includes a chair and a storage cube in addition to the desk.
- The chair is only available in one bold color.
The chair is only available in one bold color.
This option includes not only a desk but a full set complete with a chair and storage cube, making it a pretty sweet deal to cop if you’re a student. The desk portion is 36 inches wide and 20 inches long, making it a great study table for small spaces such as apartments or dorm rooms. “The best desk for students should be at least 24 inches wide and 48 inches long which offers decent space for your monitor or laptop and enough space for other study materials,” Dang says.
The desk features two open shelves with ample room to hold textbooks, notebooks, folders, and other belongings. The included swivel chair is adjustable and cushioned for added comfort. It also has wheels. Just be aware that its vertical range is limited—you can only adjust it up or down by one inch. Also keep in mind that while the desk and storage cube are white, the chair comes in teal only.
The four-foot storage cube is a stand-out offering. It has nine compartments to hold books, decor, frames, storage baskets. The piece is a great multitasker for dorm rooms or cramped kids’ rooms. Overall, this is an affordable desk set that students will find useful. The only thing that would have improved it in our eyes is a USB port for charging a cell phone or tablet.
Product Details: Size: 30 x 36 x 20 inches | Storage: Two shelves, included storage cube with nine compartments | Material: Manufactured wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Desk and storage cube: Not listed; Chair: 225 pounds | Colors: Desk and storage cube: White; Chair: Teal
Best for Small Spaces
Better Homes and Gardens Springwood Caning Desk
- The desk is finished on all sides and features stylish details like tapered legs so it doubles as a decor piece.
The desk is finished on all sides and features stylish details like tapered legs so it doubles as a decor piece.
- At only 31 inches in height, it might not be ideal for taller people.
At only 31 inches in height, it might not be ideal for taller people.
If you’re looking for a retro look for your home office, the Better Homes and Gardens Springwood Caning Desk might be the right choice for the job. Crafted from a wood composite and faux rattan strips with a light honey finish, it adds a warm touch to any room.
Tapered legs add to the ‘60s vibe, making the piece attractive enough to stand alone as a decor item such as a side table in a living room or hallway. Even though the desk has no extra shelves for storage, it comes with slender drawers at the front to store office supplies.
It measures 47 inches in length and has a compact design, making it a perfect choice for those who want to avoid sacrificing too much space. Because the desk is finished on all sides, you can place it anywhere in the room, and it’s a good choice to complement other matching furniture pieces. Just be aware that the height of this desk is limited, at only 31 inches. It might not be the ideal option for taller people or those who want more leg room.
Product Details: Size: 47.48 x 23.47 x 30.71 inches| Storage: Two drawers | Material: Wood composite, rubber wood accents | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Honey
Best Corner Desk
Better Homes and Gardens River Crest L-Shaped Desk with Storage
- This generously sized corner desk has convenient add-ons such as holes for cords and USB ports for charging devices.
This generously sized corner desk has convenient add-ons such as holes for cords and USB ports for charging devices.
- It’s crafted from wood veneer that is prone to fading.
It’s crafted from wood veneer that is prone to fading.
If you must sit at your desk for long periods of time, you might as well be as comfortable as possible. This 60-inch L-shaped desk lets you keep all your important work necessities at arm's length, so you don’t have to break your concentration by getting up repeatedly.
Besides being generously sized, it features convenient additions like holes to keep your cords tangle-free and built-in USB ports to charge your phone and other electronics. The storage is also amazing—an entire section of the desk is dedicated to shelving, including cubbyhole storage at the top, and there’s a pencil drawer and two open shelves on the next side.
Overall, we feel that it is the best option if you have an open-plan living room or roomy office design and want to maximize space. Our only issue would be that it’s made from wood veneer, so it’s more delicate than solid wood and prone to fading. But it does have a white powder-coated metal frame to make it more durable.
Product Details Size: 60.7 x 56.4 W x 41.2 inches | Storage: One drawer, three shelves, one cubby hole shelf | Material: Wood composite, powder-coated metal | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Light oak
Best Metal
Pottery Barn Flynn Metal Writing Desk
- The desk can support up to 300 pounds, which is a very high weight capacity compared to other options on the market.
The desk can support up to 300 pounds, which is a very high weight capacity compared to other options on the market.
- The metal frame is rust-resistant but should be treated with extra care.
The metal frame is rust-resistant but should be treated with extra care.
A metal desk like this option from Pottery Barn can last for years. Although metal is prone to rusting outdoors, it’s a great material when it comes to maintenance for indoor use because it won’t degrade in moist conditions or in direct sunlight, unlike wood.
Crafted from contract-grade steel, the desk has been rigorously tested according to ANSI/BIFMA testing standards. This test verifies that the desk is long-lasting and able to withstand commercial work environments. A 60-inch wide surface and two long drawers on each side gives you ample space for work and storage.
We especially appreciate the 300-pound weight capacity of the desk, which is quite high compared to other options we’ve seen. On top of that, the double drawers can withstand up to 37.5 pounds. In terms of design, an aged finish gives your home room an appealing vintage touch.
Additionally, the frame is powder-coated to resist rust and corrosion. But you’ll have to take extra care of it by avoiding harsh chemicals when cleaning and keeping it out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures if you want it to last. You can opt to assemble the desk yourself or pay extra for white glove service.
Product Details: Size: 60 x 24 x 30 inches | Storage: Two drawers | Material: Steel, engineered wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 300 pounds | Colors: Black
Best Minimalist
Better Homes and Gardens Oaklee Writing Desk
- The clean silhouette and elegant details make this desk at home in a variety of decor styles.
The clean silhouette and elegant details make this desk at home in a variety of decor styles.
- There are no fancy bells and whistles besides drawers—it really is minimalist.
There are no fancy bells and whistles besides drawers—it really is minimalist.
Basic isn’t always boring. The minimalist, Scandinavian-style Oaklee Writing Desk is exquisitely simple but eye-catching. It has a clean silhouette and features four drawers with long gold drawer pulls. Three of the drawers are shorter and deeper, good for bigger items, while the other is long and shallow—the right size for storing a planner, slim notebook, or pad.
The desk measures around 47.5 inches wide, making it compact yet still comfy to sit and work throughout the day. It’s constructed of composite wood, which is not the most premium material but is still attractive and—importantly—more affordable than solid wood. Wood tones and a charcoal finish make this desk a versatile choice for many rooms. If you’re looking to coordinate several pieces, there are matching dining chairs, dressers, TV stands, and more available in the Better Homes and Gardens Oaklee collection.
Because it’s so elegant, this desk makes a great statement piece for your room. However, it doesn’t have any bells and whistles you’ll find on some of our other options like USB ports, a charging station, or the ability to adjust the height, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for maximum efficiency.
Product Details: Size: 47.5 x 23.5 x 30.2 inches | Storage: Four drawers | Material: Composite wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Charcoal
Best Lap Desk
Gimars Home Office Lap Desk
- This 3-pound lap desk has handy compartments to hold your phone, tech accessories, and writing utensils.
This 3-pound lap desk has handy compartments to hold your phone, tech accessories, and writing utensils.
- It’s not the most stable option.
It’s not the most stable option.
If you like to work on the go—at the park, in your car, or even in bed—a lap desk might be a necessity. “A lap desk is not as ergonomic as a regular desk, but is definitely better than no desk at all,” Dang says. “They let you work in a relaxed and natural set-up.”
This desk is big enough to fit a laptop or tablet up to 17 inches, or a large notepad (not both). It’s designed with comfort in mind, with the ability to mold to your lap and a built-in wrist pad that helps prevent unnecessary back and wrist pain. Thick, foam-filled cushion pads elevate the desk above your lap and keep air flowing. Plus, it only weighs 3 pounds, so it’s light enough to sit on your lap and to tote around between locations.
Added features include a mousepad and built-in holders for a phone and other small items such as USB drives. In addition, the desk features a pull-out drawer, handy for writing utensils and the like. A fabric handle makes this lap desk super portable and easy to carry from place to place.
When you’re done using the desk, you can hang it on a hook via the handle to keep it out of the way. Note that this is not the best choice for stability, and you might have to re-balance or adjust the desk after sitting with it for a while.
Product Details: Size: 22.5 x 15.5 x 4 inches | Storage: Two pockets, one storage drawer | Material: Wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Black-gray
Best Mid-Century
West Elm Mid-Century Modular Desk with Two File Cabinets
- This desk is Greenguard Gold Certified which protects you from toxic chemicals.
This desk is Greenguard Gold Certified which protects you from toxic chemicals.
- Some common household chemicals may damage the finish.
Some common household chemicals may damage the finish.
Crafted from sustainably sourced eucalyptus wood with an acacia wood veneer, this mid-century-style pick from West Elm is the ideal pick if you yearn for a spaciousness that prioritizes function and aesthetics equally.
The desk features two large filing cabinets on either side, each with two drawers to store your most important files and documents. Tapered legs give the desk a fun, retro look. You’ll notice that this desk is more expensive than others on this list—that’s mostly due to the material, kiln-dried eucalyptus wood. It also features a water-based acorn wood finish for maximum durability. Be careful when cleaning, as some common household chemicals can damage the finish.
Included brackets can be attached to the legs to prevent the desk from tipping. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of assembling the whole desk yourself, you can pay an additional fee for white glove delivery. Keep in mind that the desk is 70 inches long, so you’ll want to make sure that your room or office can accommodate the size before you commit.
You can be sure that this desk was created with environmental impact in mind: it’s Greenguard Gold Certified, which indicates that it’s been evaluated and found not to contain over 10,000 chemicals and VOCs. It’s also Fair Trade Certified.
Product Details: Size: 70 x 26 x 29.5 inches| Storage: Two drawers | Material: Kiln-dried eucalyptus wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Acorn finish
Best Wall-Mounted Desk
Prepac Floating Desk with Storage
- A wall-mounted desk saves floor space and allows you to customize the height to your exact specifications.
A wall-mounted desk saves floor space and allows you to customize the height to your exact specifications.
- Mounting it on the wall is more complicated than regular furniture assembly.
Mounting it on the wall is more complicated than regular furniture assembly.
We can totally see why wall-mounted desks would be appealing to some homeowners. They’re interesting visually and can save space since they stay off the floor. You can also choose the exact height for the desk. The downside is that you have to install it, which may be more complicated than even usual furniture assembly.
The Prepac Wall-Mounted Desk is our favorite option. Not only is it attractive, it also features some decent storage in the form of small side compartments and open shelves. It measures 42 inches wide and 39 inches high, which is pretty standard and should give you enough working space. At the back, there is a hole to keep your cables neat and organized.
It’s made out of CARB-compliant composite wood which means that it’s deemed safe by California’s Air Resources Board. It’s not the most luxe material, but it looks nice and should stay in good shape as long as you treat it well.
Note that the weight capacity is 100 pounds—we recommend that you don’t put anything too heavy on it or it might damage your wall. The desk comes with a metal rail hanging system and the screws you need to install it. Before you start, use a stud finder and locate the studs to safely install the desk.
Product Details: Size: 39.5 x 42.2 x19.7 inches| Storage: One shelf, two side compartments | Material: Laminate composite wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: 100 pounds | Colors: Espresso, black, white
Best Wood
Better Homes and Gardens Crossmill Desk
- This desk comes with a storage cabinet in addition to the drawer.
This desk comes with a storage cabinet in addition to the drawer.
- It’s made from engineered wood, not natural wood.
It’s made from engineered wood, not natural wood.
If you’re looking for a classic desk with a bit of a cozy farmhouse feel, this Better Homes and Gardens Crossmill Desk is worth considering. The desk is made from engineered wood, which admittedly isn’t as premium as natural wood, but it is less expensive. A weathered finish gives the desk a rustic look. We particularly like the fact that it has solid wood legs, which makes the desk feel extremely sturdy.
At 47 inches wide, it’s a great desk for small living spaces. Putting the desk together is simple and should take you no more than 90 minutes thanks to the easy to follow instructions. Just be aware that installing the drawers and cabinets could be a little tricky.
The desk comes with one medium-sized drawer with safety stops to prevent you from slamming it on your hand. Below that is a cabinet that has an adjustable shelf inside. The desk also has a built-in cord management hole at the back of it to keep your wires from tangling.
Product Details: Size: 47.1 x 19.3 x 30 inches | Storage: One drawer, one cabinet with shelf | Material: Engineered wood | Maximum Bearing Weight: Not listed | Colors: Weathered