Which desks are best for working from home?
One of the most important investments you’ll make in a home office is a desk, which functions as the center of your productivity. In addition to providing a clear workspace, a work-from-home desk may help you “stay in the zone” for projects, meetings or deadlines, even from afar.
Finding the right desk involves taking inventory of your professional needs. , for example, offers a high level of organization with shelves and a built-in filing cabinet.
What to know before you buy a desk for working from home
Desk types
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the diverse range of work-from-home desks on the market. To narrow your options, find the design that suits your professional needs best among these five desk types:
- Rectangular desks are well-received for their versatility and sprawling tabletops. They’re available in several sizes, ranging from compact computer desks to long drafting desks.
- L-shaped desks create a split workspace with dual tabletops. Besides providing room for writing and device use, many L-shaped desks have shelves or filing cabinets.
- Executive desks have large tabletops and several drawers. They’re attractive and often become the focal point of home offices.
- Wall-mounted desks have drop-leaf or folding designs to optimize space. These desks are popular for small or mixed used spaces.
- Standing desks, a newer option among work-from-home desks, are super if you’d like the option to work on your feet.
Assembly
Unless you’re paying for high-end furniture, be prepared to assemble a work-from-home desk. Fortunately, most of these kits include all the necessary components and tools to put them together. If you decide not to assemble the desk yourself, many retailers offer professional assembly services for an additional charge.
What to look for in a quality desk for working from home
Materials
Most high-end and craftsman-made desks are made of wood. In addition to fine details and high-quality construction, they have the highest durability among materials. Wooden desks tend to be the most expensive, and they’re much heavier than metal and MDF desks.
Metal desks are durable and hold up to considerable wear and tear. They’re also low-maintenance because they rarely require more than surface cleaning. While metal desks have an industrial or clinical appearance, they remain affordable and practical.
Many affordable desks for working from home are made with MDF, a byproduct of hardwood and softwood. They may resemble wooden desks, but they lack real wood’s durability because they’re prone to chipping, peeling or bowing.
Cable management
Newer desks for working from home offer cable management. These desks have cutouts or adjustable panels to accommodate power cords and wires. Certain desks have cutouts toward the back of the tabletop, where others are located in back or side panels.
Organization
If you need to store paperwork, devices or office supplies, consider buying a desk with a high level of organization. Many designs feature integrated shelves, while others have built-in filing cabinets. Some gaming desks, which are often embraced as work-from-home desks, may have racks or pegs for headphones or tablets.
How much you can expect to spend on a desk for working from home
Desks made with primarily MDF components cost $100-$350. If you’re looking for a quality wood desk, be prepared to spend $400-$1,000. Desks made by craftsmen or high-end furniture designers, including many executive desks, cost $1,000-$2,500.
Desk for working from home FAQ
Do I really need to buy a work-from-home desk?
A. It’s not necessary, but a desk is a practical alternative to kitchen counters or dining room tables. A work desk may help professionals compartmentalize work and create boundaries to achieve a better work-life balance.
Where should I set up my work-from-home desk?
A. When possible, set up your desk in a guest room, basement or loft. If an extra room isn’t available for a dedicated home office, many professionals set up their desks in corners of larger, mixed-use areas like dining rooms or living rooms.
I’m going back to the office — should I get rid of my work-from-home desk?
A. It’s a good idea to keep it on hand, even if you keep it in a garage or storage unit, in the event you work remotely in the future. Another option is to repurpose the desk for crafting, homework or other activities.
What’s the best work-from-home desk?
Top desk for working from home
What you need to know: This attractive L-shaped desk offers plenty of storage and a sprawling workspace.
What you’ll love: The versatile design blends in well with most room décor. The desk can hold multiple monitors and peripherals. Assembly is fairly straightforward and takes less than a couple of hours.
What you should consider: The shelves have limited weight capacities.
Top desk for working from home for the money
What you need to know: This contemporary, L-shaped desk has the added benefit of a monitor shelf.
What you’ll love: It has room for at least three monitors. It’s durable and easy to clean. It also works well as a gaming desk.
What you should consider: It doesn’t have any space or shelves for storing things underneath it.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: This compact option is perfect for those who work in smaller or shared spaces.
What you’ll love: It has just the right amount of space for working without having a large footprint. The lower bins can hold a PC tower or bins. It also has a pull-out keyboard shelf.
What you should consider: If you have a bigger home office, it will likely not be large enough for your space.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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