When choosing a computer desk, you need to proceed not only from the layout of your apartment and your own preferences in the design of such furniture, but also some other characteristics.
Contents
- How to choose a computer desk: what to look for
- Computer desk dimensions
- The shape of a computer desk
- Computer desk shelves
- Your computer desk drawer
- Summary
How to choose a computer desk: what to look for

To make your computer desk really ergonomic and comfortable, you will need to pay attention to the following parameters:
- Size;
- Shape;
- The presence of shelves;
- The presence of a drawer.
It is also worth considering the user’s habits. For example, gamers will want a desk that is functional, sturdy, and comfortable with a roomy tabletop and extra shelves for your audio system and other equipment. But a child will need drawers, where you can put all school supplies.
Computer Desk Dimensions
By dimensions we mean the depth and width of the table top. The first parameter depends on the computer configuration:
- If you plan to use a system unit and a monitor, the depth should be more than 80 cm;
- If you plan to use a laptop, the depth should be more than 60 cm.
These parameters are optimal in terms of ergonomics (enough space for keyboard and mouse) and sanitary norms (recommended distance between eyes and monitor).
The optimal width of the tabletop is 120 cm. If you plan to put shelves of paper documents on it – at least 150 cm.
And the normal height of a computer desk for most people is 70-80 cm.
The form of a computer desk

There are 4 types of computer desks in terms of shape:
- Straight;
- L-shaped;
- U-shaped racks;
- Desks.
Straight desks have a classic rectangular shape. Can be placed anywhere.
L-shaped ones are designed for installation in the corner. Have two working surfaces, it is often assumed that the computer is placed at their connection. They are regularly supplemented with shelves, various racks and other functional elements.
U-shaped desks have three working surfaces. They require quite a lot of space, and therefore the advisability of their installation in apartments is debatable. However, they are characterized by maximum storage capacity.
Desks can be straight or L-shaped. In addition to the tabletop, they have one or more additional tiers.
Computer desk shelves

Computer desks can be equipped with one or more shelves:
- For the system unit;
- For the keyboard;
- For the monitor;
- Footstool;
- Shelves for peripheral equipment.
And not all of them are equally useful. So, a pull-out keyboard shelf only seems to be a comfortable solution – during prolonged typing, especially if the user does not know how to type blindly, it will cause discomfort and even pain in the hands and back. Therefore, it is better to choose tables with a deeper tabletop to place input devices on it.
A shelf for a monitor is also useless, and often even harmful to your posture. The display should be placed directly on the tabletop.
The shelf for the system unit must be spacious enough and at least 5-10 cm away from the walls on all sides to ensure good ventilation. Sufficiently convenient tables, in which this compartment is equipped with a wheel. It is desirable that such a shelf has no frontal “decorative” partition – it not only reduces the level of ventilation, but also makes using the computer uncomfortable due to the inability to reach the connectors on the front panel.
shelves for peripheral equipment – printer, scanner, audio system – it is advisable to place them above the table top to leave more free space under the table.
And the footrest will repeatedly increase the comfort of the table. Especially if it is removable.
The cabinet of the computer desk

The drawer is convenient for storing various documents, stationery and other small items. But at the same time, it reduces the comfort level of the table, because there is less space for your feet. Therefore, you should buy models that are equipped with a drawer only if it is really needed.
It is recommended that the drawer should be sliding and on castors, that way it will be more convenient to clean the dust under it or to take out the dropped flash drives.
Summary
When choosing a computer desk, whether for your home or office, the first thing you should pay attention to is its ergonomics and comfort. Various “features” can be put into the background, as long as they do not directly affect the functionality of the computer. And don’t go overboard with shelves and drawer units – they are not as handy as they seem.
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