Most people spend a lot of time in front of a computer, whether it's at a gaming desk, a work desk, or both. So it only makes sense that finding the best desk is pretty important to the average person. That’s easier said than done though, given the thousands of different desks available to choose from. Even setting aside wholly subjective preferences like color and style, choosing the right desk can feel like trying to pick a needle out of needle stack.

Narrowing down the options is a necessity, and it’s easy to do so by considering a few key features. Those looking for a new desk should think about:

• How much space they have
• How the desk will be used
• How much they’re willing to spend
• How often they want to replace their desk

The answers to these questions will allow users to pick a desk that will perfectly suit their every need.

The FEZIBO Height-Adjustable Electric Desk is very nearly the whole package as far as desks go. Available in six colors and four sizes, customizability is just one of the highlights of the FEZIBO PC desk. The height can be adjusted to suit both sitting and standing, using the electronic panel that has three preset heights for common preferences along with the ability to set it at a custom height.

This sit-to-stand desk also offers lots of storage space, plus extra hooks on the side for bags and headsets. Ideal for keeping important papers or gaming accessories, users can increase the space on their desk with the included drawers and the raised shelf that’s perfect for a monitor to sit on. There's a lot to love about the FEZIBO height-adjustable electric desk, and it's all available at a moderately mid-range price.

The SEDETA L-Shaped Gaming Desk is the perfect gaming desk, as long as there’s enough space for it. This massive desk can be oriented in a left or right L-shape, or even just a straight line. The long, wide design gives plenty of room to PC towers, multiple screens, and every gaming accessory players keep nearby. There are shelves, headset hooks, and even a pegboard for customized storage options.

The three available colors make it easy to match any existing decor, while the built-in RGB lighting adds a bright, stylish touch that can be controlled using the app or through voice. This gaming desk is great for players who also work from home or for students who need to share their space, as each side of the desk can be customized to be covered in figures and accessories, or support an uncluttered, minimalist layout.

The EUREKA RGB Glass Gaming Desk is one of the coolest desks money can buy, even if it does ask for quite a bit more money than other desks. The minimalist design uses a sleek black glass top to accentuate the integrated RGB lighting. A futuristic design, the hex-patterned top can sync the lights to PC audio from games, movies, and more. There are 27 music sync modes, 10 cycle modes, and a sleep mode for when it’s time for lights out. Plus, there are holders for bags, cups, and headsets.

The high price reflects the high-quality materials used for this desk; the frame is made from powder-coated carbon steel, while the 6mm thick, tempered-glass desktop is both waterproof and heat-resistant. Backed by a 5-year warranty, users can confidently let this awesome desk light the night for years.

Related: The Best Smart Lights

Not everyone wants RGB lighting on their desk, even if it can be turned off. For those looking to get an office desk that’s a bit more professional, the FATORRI L-Shaped Computer Desk is the best choice. Built for busy office life, this desk has incredible durability and strength, offering weight limits well above industry standards. For instance, the main storage shelf isn’t only conveniently placed to be out of the way, it can hold up to 120 pounds!

That shelf, along with the two other shelves, provides plenty of space to keep personal belongings and work documents well organized. The modesty panels add a touch of professionalism to the overall style, while the three different finishes allow users to choose a rustic, natural, or modern aesthetic. While there aren’t many customizations available, the desk can be assembled with either a right or left orientation, and it’s easy to add a hutch or other accessories.

Balancing work, gaming, and everything else going on in life can be tough, especially when working with limited space. However, the Tangkula extendable computer desk is a fantastic solution to players who need to game in a small area. Most ideal for laptop gamers, the Tangkula desk rolls and folds into the bottom section, leaving two convenient shelves available for any home storage that’s needed. Internally, there are two more shelves perfect for storing PC accessories, as the shelves are covered when the desk is put away.

This compact desk comes in two different finish colors and is made with very durable materials, especially considering the low price. It’s not nearly as stylish as other desks, but it’s got the space needed for a laptop or even a PC tower, and sometimes that’s all you need.

Finding a desk under $50 is tough, so the PayLessHere Computer Desk being list priced at $40 is wild considering how useful the desk is. This is a simple writing desk, but the minimalist design is sure to fit in with most styles. Additionally, despite being so cheap, the desk is actually fairly strong and durable.

There are two finishes to choose from, both of which are neutral and ideal for professional settings. There are also different sizes available, in case a smaller desk will fit a space better. All in all, there isn’t much to say about the PayLessHere PC desk, but it certainly gets the job done at a discount.

Related: The Best Budget Gaming Desks You Can Buy

How to Choose the Best Desk

The best desk for one person may not be the best desk for the next, but how can someone know which of the hundreds of thousands of options to choose? While every computer desk is going to be fairly similar, there are some key differences to think about when shopping for a new one, including things like your budget, the amount of space you have, and whether you want special features like built-in shelves or RGB lighting.

Cost

Budget is a main concern for most shoppers. Spending more on a desk usually results in having additional features, higher quality materials, and more space. However, not everyone will need every feature, and not everyone wants to have no limit to their budget. Desks typically cost between $100 and $2000, but there are definitely options outside that range ready to serve budget restraints or grant every wish. Figuring out how much you’re willing to spend is the first step to picking out a great PC desk.

Utility

How a desk will be used will greatly affect how it’s designed. Office desks shouldn’t have flashy lighting like gaming desks, while at the same time a gaming desk without extra shelving or space for accessories is going to get cramped much sooner than a desk meant for focused work. Whether the desk should have a power strip, locking casters, and a host of other optional features can make a big difference during activities like work and gaming. Consider how much time at your desk is spent working versus playing to make sure you choose a desk that has all the features you need and want.

Adjustability

Sitting at a desk all day can feel awful, but with adjustable desks it doesn’t have to. For many people who are shorter or taller than the average, adjustable desks are amazing. They can more closely fit their body height to provide an ergonomic experience that’s tough to get right with just a chair. Plus, sit-to-stand desks make it easy to stretch legs and burn extra calories throughout the day without having to interrupt a good flow.

Durability

Some people like to change their style every few months, while others prefer to set it and forget it. The durability of a computer desk increases alongside the price, so it’s usually not worth investing in something rock solid unless it’s going to be sticking around for a long time. Students and people who are likely going to be moving without their desk in the next few years don’t have to worry about the durability of a desk. Office workers however, will probably want a desk that will be comfortable for at least a few years.

The FEZIBO Height-Adjustable Electric Desk is the best desk overall because of how it addresses each of these categories. The affordable price doesn’t undermine the quality materials, and the adjustable-height capabilities make it easy to suit a variety of people. Plus, it’s available in a number of stylish colors that can complement any space, gaming, office, or otherwise.

More: The Best Gaming Chairs

FAQ

Q: How much does a desk cost?

Most desks cost anywhere from $100 up to $2000, with even more options available outside of this range. A decent desk can be had at nearly any price point.

Q: Where do you buy desks?

Desks are sold through most big box retailers including Walmart, Target, Wayfair, and Amazon.

Q: What makes a desk good or bad?

Every desk is a little different, but in general all desks should be made with sturdy materials, offer enough space to use a laptop or desktop, and be within a person's budget. Other features that many people love to see with desks include things like height adjustability, RGB lighting, and storage.