Computer Desk Buying Guide: Choose the Right Desk for Your Space

Whether for remote work, studying, or your gaming sessions, choosing the right computer desk is a crucial decision. The wrong piece of furniture can harm both your comfort and productivity. With so many models available, it can be hard to know where to start.

This guide is here to help you make sense of it all, break down the essential criteria, and discover a selection of desks suited to different needs and space constraints.

How to Choose the Right Computer Desk

Before you start shopping, take the time to define your specific needs. Three key points will help guide your search.

1. Assess Your Available Space

The first and most obvious step: measure the area where you plan to put your desk. Consider not only the width and depth but also the space needed for your chair and for moving around it freely.

• For studios or bedrooms, a straight small desk with a width of 80 to 120?cm is often ideal.
• If you have an unused corner, a corner desk or an L-shaped desk can optimise the room while providing a generous work surface, perfect for a multi-monitor setup.

2. Consider Ergonomics and Comfort

Sitting for hours on end can take a toll on your health. The ergonomics of your workstation are therefore paramount, especially for a remote work desk.

A height-adjustable desk, also known as a sit-stand desk, is an increasingly popular solution. It allows you to easily alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day, promoting better posture and a healthier work dynamic. While the standard height for a fixed desk is around 75?cm, an adjustable model offers a welcome level of customisation.

3. Don't Overlook Storage

A well-organised desk is the key to efficiency. Assess how much equipment and paperwork you need to keep within arm's reach. A desk with built-in storage (drawers, shelves, cabinets) is an excellent option to prevent clutter from taking over. This frees up the main surface for your computer and your current tasks.

Recommended Computer Desks to Consider

To give you a practical overview, here are three models that caught our eye for their design and features.

Ochama Computer Desk, 80 x 50?cm

Editor's Take

This desk embodies simplicity and efficiency. Its minimalist design and compact size make it a prime solution for setting up a functional workspace without overwhelming the room.

Key Features

• Compact Footprint: At 80 x 50?cm, it fits easily into a student's room, a living room, or any small space.
• Guaranteed Stability: The steel frame and adjustable feet ensure good stability, even on uneven floors.
• Sleek Design: Its modern, understated look complements many interior design styles.
• Easy Assembly: Clear instructions and numbered parts make for a quick and hassle-free setup.

Who is it for?

This model is especially suitable for students or anyone needing a secondary workspace for a laptop. It's an excellent, straightforward, and effective starter desk.

Ochama Sit-Stand Desk, 140 x 60?cm

Editor's Take

Here, the focus is on ergonomics and modernity. This desk meets the needs of remote professionals looking to invest in a comfortable, adaptable workstation for a healthier routine.

Key Features

• Adjustable Height: The electric motor allows you to adjust the desktop height from 72 to 120?cm smoothly and quietly.
• Position Memory: The control panel can save several height presets, letting you switch from sitting to standing with a single press.
• Convenient Connectivity: It includes a fast-charging USB-C port, a thoughtful detail for powering up your devices.
• Cable Management: Equipped with two cable grommets and a fabric organiser, it helps you maintain a tidy workspace.

Who is it for?

Ideal for remote professionals, creatives, and anyone who spends long hours at their desk. It's an excellent investment in daily comfort and well-being.

Tribesigns L-Shaped Corner Desk with Storage

Editor's Take

This model is a true workstation, combining a large surface area with considerable storage capacity. Its L-shaped design is engineered to make the most of a room's often-wasted corners.

Key Features

• XXL Workspace: The L-shape (150 x 110?cm) provides two distinct surfaces, perfect for a gaming desk or a multi-monitor setup.
• Ample Storage: It comes with four drawers and two open shelves, offering substantial storage for files, supplies, and peripherals.
• Reversible Assembly: The storage unit can be installed on the left or right, depending on your room's layout and your preference.
• Sturdy Construction: The metal frame and high-quality panels ensure good durability and a high load capacity.

Who is it for?

This desk is a prime option for gamers, professionals who need a lot of space, or anyone looking to consolidate their workstation and storage into a single piece of furniture.

Looking for Other Options?

If our selection doesn't quite match what you're looking for, or if you're seeking a specific aesthetic, like an industrial style that combines wood and metal, other solutions are available.

Explore our collection of desks with metal shelves to find more inspiration and the model that will fit perfectly into your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal depth for a computer desk?

A depth of 60 to 80?cm is generally recommended. This allows you to place a monitor at a comfortable distance for your eyes (about an arm's length away) while still having room for a keyboard, mouse, and some documents. For a simple laptop setup, a depth of 50?cm may be sufficient.

Is a sit-stand desk really worth it?

Yes, a height-adjustable desk offers highly valuable flexibility. Alternating between sitting and standing positions throughout the day helps reduce sedentary behaviour and improve overall comfort. It's a particularly relevant feature for people who work long hours from home.

How do I choose a desk for a small space?

In a tight space, optimisation is key. Opt for a straight, shallow small desk. Also, consider vertical solutions, such as desks with shelving above. Finally, a corner desk can be an excellent way to utilise an often-unused corner of a room.