Why is the best desk for working from home important?

With work-from-home setups becoming increasingly popular, having the right desk is crucial for productivity and comfort. Your desk can significantly impact your ability to focus, work effectively, and maintain good posture. This guide will walk you through everything to consider when selecting the best desk for your remote work needs, from desk types and materials to ergonomics and storage solutions.

1. Assess your space and desk size

Before diving into the options, it’s essential to evaluate your space.

Dedicated office vs. shared space
If you have a dedicated home office, you can opt for a larger desk with more storage. In contrast, for smaller or shared spaces like a bedroom or living room, compact desks that can fold away or fit neatly into a corner may be more suitable. Plus for some a desk that folds away can be great to achieve a better work-life balance.

Measuring your space
Always measure your available area before buying a desk. Consider the width, depth, and height, keeping in mind the need for legroom and clearance for other office essentials like chairs or footrests. Whilst having enough space in the room to work comfortably, without needing to disturb your room set-up regularly.

Types of desks based on space:

• Standard desks: Ideal for those with ample space, providing a generous surface area for monitors, laptops, and paperwork.
• Corner desks: A perfect solution for maximising space by fitting neatly into corners, providing a dual work surface for multitasking.
• Wall-mounted desks: These are great for smaller or dual use spaces, freeing up floor space while offering a functional work surface.
• Foldable desks: If you need a temporary workspace that can be stored away after use, foldable desks are highly versatile.

With so many options to choose from it can be hard to know which to opt for. One important aspect to consider too, is if you want to see your work, out of working hours? Will it tempt you to check emails on a Saturday morning, or keep your mind reoccupied with work throughout the weekend?

Material and aesthetic considerations for your work from home desk

Your desk’s material will impact both its appearance and functionality. Let’s explore some of the most popular material choices for the best work from home desks.

Laminate desks: An often more budget-friendly option that mimics the look of wood, laminates are often stain-resistant and easy to clean, making them practical for heavy, regular use.

Wooden desks: Offer a warm, often traditional look, and are highly durable – as long as made by a quality craftsman. They range from solid wood to particleboard and laminate finishes, with each offering different levels of quality and resilience. Of course they are not all built equal, so it is important to look at reviews to ensure you get the best high-quality desk to work from home, for years to come.

Metal and glass desks: These provide a sleek, modern aesthetic. Metal frames can add stability, while glass tops are easy to clean but can show fingerprints easily. However, consider if you are happy with leaning on colder materials throughout the workday.

Choose materials that complement your home’s interior design while meeting your functional needs. Consider factors like how often you eat at your desk or if you need a scratch-resistant surface for daily tasks.

Ergonomics and comfort

Ergonomic design is essential to maintain comfort during long workdays, minimising the risk of neck and back pain.

• Height-adjustable desks: These allow you to switch between sitting and standing positions, promoting better posture and circulation. This flexibility can reduce back pain and increase energy levels, enhancing your overall work performance. Great for those who like to move regularly.
• Monitor height and desk depth: Your monitor should be at, or just below, eye level, with the desk deep enough to allow at least 20-24 inches between your eyes and the screen. A depth of around 30 inches is generally comfortable for most users.
• Legroom and armrest clearance: Your desk should provide sufficient legroom for stretching and moving comfortably. It should also allow your chair’s armrests to fit underneath for proper arm support while typing.

Storage solutions for the best work from home desks

Desks come with various storage options that can help you stay organised. Let’s explore.

• Drawers, shelves and storage cubbies: Built-in drawers and shelves can keep documents, stationery, and other items within reach. These are perfect for keeping your desk surface clear, which can enhance focus. Better yet – go paper-free. Reducing workspace clutter catalyses enhanced productivity.
• Cable management: Cluttered cables can make any workspace feel chaotic. Look for desks that feature built-in cable management systems, such as holes for wires or hidden compartments for power strips. This also lessens the morning set-up need.
• Under-desk storage: Desks with under-surface storage allow you to keep larger items like printers or extra monitors tucked away, saving desk space for your daily work essentials.

Budget considerations

Desks come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end, premium desks. When determining your budget, consider…

• Basic desks: These are often more affordable and include simple designs without many features. They’re perfect for those who only need a basic surface for a laptop. These are often best suited for those that don’t spend long hours at a desk.
• Mid-range desks: These typically offer additional storage, better materials, and sometimes adjustable height features, striking a balance between cost and functionality.
• Premium desks: If you’re investing in a long-term setup, a high-quality desk with advanced features such as being wall-mounted to separate work and home life, or a space saving design, memory height settings, ergonomic designs, and premium materials may be worth the extra cost.

Remember that a higher price does not always mean better quality. Evaluate reviews and look for desks with solid construction, durable materials, and useful features that align with your personal working style.

Additional accessories for your work from home desk

Completing your work-from-home setup can require a few additional accessories.

Ergonomic chairs: This is an absolute must! Whilst not a part of the desk itself, an ergonomic chair can greatly impact your comfort level. Look for chairs with lumbar support, adjustable height, and armrests that complement your desk height.

Monitor stands and laptop risers: Elevate your screen to eye-level, helping to prevent neck strain. Some desks come with built-in risers, but separate stands or movable monitor mounts can be more versatile.

Desk organisers: Keep your workspace tidy with organisers for pens, notebooks, and other small items. Drawer dividers or desktop organisers can help maintain a clean and efficient workspace.

Tips for purchasing your desk online

When buying the best work from home desk online, consider these tips to make the process easier.

• Check dimensions carefully: Always double-check the product dimensions to ensure the desk will fit your space. Use masking tape to outline the desk’s footprint on your floor to visualise its size.
• Look for assembly requirements: Some desks require extensive assembly, while others are quick to put together. Read user reviews, or check out the instructions before purchasing, to gauge how easy or difficult the assembly might be.
• Returns and shipping policies: Choose retailers that offer flexible return policies, or extended warranties in case the desk doesn’t meet your expectations.

Selecting the best desk for your work-from-home setup involves balancing space, style, ergonomics, storage, and budget. By considering these factors, you can find a desk that not only looks great in your home but also enhances your comfort and productivity. Investing in the right desk will help create a workspace that supports your long-term work-from-home success.

References
Standard.co.uk