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Whether you’re a student, need a replacement computer desk in a hurry, or merely don’t like spending more money that you have to, you’ll want the best cheap computer desk possible.
The problem is that there are so many different options available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Fortunately, you have this guide to help you.
What to Consider Before Buying The Best Cheap Computer Desks
Before you start shopping, it’s a good idea to think about which features are most important to you. Knowing what you want will help you to find the best cheap computer desks for your needs.
It’s worth noting that while you can grab your computer or laptop and sit at the kitchen or dining room table, you won’t be as productive or as comfortable as if you’ve got a dedicated computer desk. The space simply isn’t designed in the same way.
If you spend a large amount of time at your computer desk, then you need to you’ll appreciate the issues that come with a normal table – discomfort, bad ergonomics, and the need to set up and break down your workspace are a few major problems that many people face.
Here are some things to consider.
Financials
The cost of a computer desk can be as little as $50 to more than $200, and that’s just the cheap ones! Fortunately paying less doesn’t always mean settling for a poor-quality computer desk. You just need to do your research first.
Setting a budget helps define your search parameters, potentially narrowing the field to a few specific choices so you can spend less time hunting for good desks that meet all of your requirements.
Manufacturer Reputation
It’s a good idea to take a few moments to consider the manufacturer’s reputation. A well-established manufacturer is more likely to take pride in their work and create good, cheap computer desks that will last you for at least a few years while you’re saving up for that big desk of your dreams.
On the other hand, lesser known manufacturers can still produce quality pieces and will often dominate the budget end of the market as they simply can’t charging high-end prices.
For this reason, it is very important to read reviews about specific desks you’re considering. People are generally very good at leaving comments regarding purchases and these comments will be based on their actual experience. Knowing what others have to say is a great way to make your shortlist even shorter.
Of course, it’s very difficult for a company to keep every customer happy. If you find negative comments on social media then you need to check what the company did about the complaint.
It’s also worth remembering that the general trend should be positive, a few negative comments won’t matter if they’re hundreds of positive ones.
Space Available
The next thing to consider is what space you actually have at home for your new desk. There is little point in bringing a 2-meter long desk home when you only have enough space for a 1.8m desk!
It’s not just the length of the desk, you need to consider the width, whether it is capable of sliding into a corner and how much space the chair will take up. Of course, you’ll need to side your chair in or out, this can take as much as 1m of space.
If you have a corner free you’ll need to consider the practicalities of getting a corner desk into the available space and whether you’re likely to rearrange the room in the future.
Don’t forget to check if the desk is delivered whole or needs to be put together. If it’s whole you’ll need to verify that it will fit through your doorways and into the space where you want it to be positioned.
Usage
Now you need to take a few moments to consider how much you’re actually going to use the desk and what you’re going to use it for.
If you have one laptop or a desktop that will sit in the middle then you’re not going to need a big desk. However, if you have two screens, a printer, and are used to having a stack of paper next to your mouse and speakers; then you’re going to need something a little bigger.
The best way to answer this question is simply to look at what you currently use when you’re working or paying on your computer and what else you would need to make your life easier.
This will give you a good idea of how much space you really need and the best cheap computer desk you should really be looking at.
Peripherals
Do you like to have headphones handy, perhaps your games controllers, a stack of games, or even a drink? Alternatively, you may be focused on an extra hard drive, USB hub, and other electronic paraphernalia.
Whatever your preference you’ll need to consider where these items will go on your new desk. Drinks are particularly tricky as if they are positioned in the wrong place you’ll risk knocking them over and destroying your computer and your hard work.
The simple solution is to choose a desk that has specific slots for the extras you need. A sliding tray can handle your paperwork, a simple shelf can accommodate your game or even your speakers. You can even get a rack to hold your computer games or platforms to look after your speakers.
The good news is there is one of those desks on the best cheap computer desks list!
Chair Compatibility
Check to see if your computer chair (or VR motion chair) will be a good fit for the desk in question. Most of the time the answer is “yes” but you’ll want to double-check at any rate.
The Best Cheap Computer Desks for Gamers
If you need a desk for working and gaming then you’ll probably like one of these two:
Sauder Beginnings Computer Desk
Gaming desks need a little more than your average desk. That’s why the Sauder Beginnings Computer Desk is a great choice. It may not be the most conventional looking desk, but you’ll find a space for everything and enough room to move.
Basic Specs
- Slide-out keyboard/mouse shelf
- Elevated shelf for printer or second monitor
- Small storage cupboard
- Space for vertical CPU Tower
Considering the price, this is a well-built desk that comes in an attractive cinnamon cherry finish. The CPU space is designed to accommodate a large tower computer or even two slimline versions with plenty of cooling space.
People tend to appreciate the large storage shelf under the keyboard shelf; this is a great place to keep your games paraphernalia or current workload.
The space on top of the PC tower lends itself to a printer, collection of hubs, a few books, or some decorative items.
Most users leave positive feedback on this budget computer desk, making it a stylish and practical addition to our “best cheap computer desk” list. You’ll have to put it together, but once you’ve completed the task, you’ll enjoy a durable platform for work and play.
Atlantic Gaming Desk
The Sauder beginnings is good but the Atlantic Gaming Desk takes great, basic usefulness to a whole new level. At first glance, this is a simplistic desk but on closer inspection, you’ll see that it offers some really cool features – plus it comes with a task chair in case you don’t have one. It really is one of the best cheap computer desks on the market right now.
Basic Specs
- Stylish black combination of steel & MDF with a touch of plastic.
- Vacuum formed for accuracy and smooth edges.
- Metal legs for strength and style.
- Useful storage underneath
- Drink Holder
Steel legs give this desk a modern, streamlined appearance and the simple storage space underneath helps you stay organized.
The built-in cup holder is an innovative feature, perfect for preventing costly spills.
You’ll also find a convenient hook for headphones and next to the elevated monitor shelf is a rack for storing games and the controllers. There are even brackets for your speakers!
All of this leaves plenty of space for your laptop or keyboard and mouse, as well as any work you’re currently doing.
But, it is worth noting that while this is a sturdy and durable desk, there is no dedicated space for your tower; you’ll need to keep it on the floor or set it on a separate unit.
Alongside the excellent build quality, you’ll also appreciate the ease at which two or more people can sit at this big desk; great if you’re doing some gaming together!
The Best Cheap Computer Desks for Working At Home
If you’re after the best cheap computer desks for getting work done at home then you should consider the next two. Both are well-made and have several useful features. They are also both affordable and attractive!
GreenForest L-Shape Corner Computer Desk
The GreenForest L-shaped corner computer desk is designed to fit into any corner of the room and features a curved corner; allowing you space for cables or even to accommodate a corner that isn’t quite perfect.
The desk is simple yet stylish and will give you all the room you need to get all your work done and have some fun at the same time!
Basic Specs
- L shaped Design maximizes space
- 3 piece set-up allows you to choose the angle you need.
- Adjustable foot cups
- 58.1” x 44.3” x 19.1”
There are a few good reasons why this is one of the best cheap computer desks for working at home; it’s flexible, practical, durable, stylish, and one of the best sellers on Amazon.
The desk can be separated into two rectangular desks or the corner can be added to match your preferred set up.
The beauty of this is that you can have both your laptop and your desktop on at the same time, or simply have two screens connected.
It should be noted that there are no raised platforms on this desk to elevate your computer screen, but there is useful storage underneath
Many users rave about the adjustable feet These will allow you to adjust the height to suit uneven floors or to lift the desk high enough to suit your personal tastes.
The desk is simple to put together. It’s very sturdy despite a relatively light weight of just 37.2 pounds.
Westeros Modern L-shaped Computer Desk
If you’re really serious about getting work, studies, and even a little gaming done at home then you need to check out the Westeros L-shaped computer desk.
Basic Specs
- Durable L-Shaped Design.
- Can Be Positioned at either angle.
- Separate CPU bracket on casters
- Available in rich walnut with black legs
- Anti-scratch Feet
- Weighs just 44 pounds
This L-shaped desk is exceptionally easy to put together, and you’ll find that the instructions are detailed, as well as easy to follow.
What may surprise you is the fact that the tables that make up this desk are actually different widths. This is done intentionally to help it fit your space and to make it easier for you to maneuver your chair into position.
This company gets high marks not just for the desk’s design, but for its customer service. If you have questions or problems, you should find that it’s easy to get in touch.
You’ll note the L design of the steel metal legs, which ensures strength and stability of your desk. Screws are easy to install and remove as needed.
The CPU bracket on casters is also a great part of this package; it allows you to position the tower wherever you need it to be without any issues regarding the wires. The diagonal corner is a nice organizational touch too, keeping wires well away from your feet.
In short, this is a stylish and durable desk that most people like. The price is fantastic, too.
The Best Value Cheap Computer Desks
While appearance and useful features are great, you might need one of the very best value cheap computer desks to satisfy your budget or setup a work space in a pinch.
If that’s the case then you’ll probably like one of the following two; they’ll provide you the durability you need at the right price.
OneSpace Stanton Computer Desk
This is a great desk if you’re on a really tight budget. The OneSpace Stanton computer desk is definitely simplistic, but it’s functional at the same time.
Basic Specs
- Black
- Made with MDF, Steel & Plastic for durability
- Pull out keyboard shelf
- Simple to assemble
- Weighs 28.6 pounds
- Measures 27.5” high x 19.6” deep x 29.5” wide
The OneSpace Stanton is designed to fit into any small space at home and it will support weights of up to 150 pounds. You won’t have any problem supporting a tower CPU, monitor, printer and your accessories.
Some users find that they have an issue with the amount of space available for larger setups. In reality, this desk has a large tray area that will support your PC but it must be to the side. Even with the keyboard shelf out, you’re going to find yourself resting your feet on the lower shelf. This is nice if you’re someone who likes a footrest, but not so great if you’re hoping to use the lower area for storage.
The pull out tray is a convenient way to keep space free on top of your desk, and it’s good for ergonomics as well. If you tend to type a lot and you use a separate keyboard instead of the one on your laptop, you’re probably going to find this very helpful.
The steel construction mixed with MDF actually makes this a very sturdy desk, surprisingly so considering the low price. This is one of the reasons it gets such great reviews. But, you should be aware that this is designed as a workspace. A gaming keyboard will be too big for the keyboard tray if you wish to slide it closed.
Need Computer Desk
The Need Computer desk may be the final option on this list but that doesn’t make it the worst! In fact, its’ design is much more like a standard table than a computer desk. This helps to keep the cost down and makes it surprisingly flexible for a variety of uses.
Basic Specs
- E1 solid partial wood
- Scratch & friction-resistant
- Stable
- Measures 47” x 23.7” x 29.5”
- Comes in a variety of color options
- Weighs 30.2 pounds
The first thing you’ll notice when you receive this desk is that it can be assembled in just a few minutes. Each leg has two bolts which fasten it to the metal brackets at the corners of the desk frame. Once they are all tightened properly the desk is ready to use.
You’ll love the fact that you can choose from a variety of colors, including black with white legs, white with black legs, and even teak with white or black legs.
The main panel of the desk is made from particle wood and has a high gloss finish. This ensures you can easily keep it clean. The epoxy coating helps to prevent scratches.
There is plenty of room on this desk for your keyboard, writing materials, monitor and other accessories; it’s surprisingly practical and yet fits stylishly into any room. It’s built to hold 800 pounds so you don’t need to worry about what goes on it!
However, you should be aware that many customers have reported the packages arriving damaged; although the customer service response is generally favorable and speedy.
The overall consensus is that this desk is durable, versatile, and affordable. You can do a lot worse for your money!
Final Thoughts
The best cheap computer desks can all be had for around $100 and often quite a bit less, but there are quite a few variables when it comes to which features are included. What is clear is that there is an option available whether you’re looking for a gaming desk, work desk, student desk, or a multi-purpose desk.
Providing you consider what your needs are before you commit, you’ll be certain to find that one of the very best cheap computer desks on this list is perfect for you.