Standard Computer Desk Dimensions (with Photos)

In today’s world of home offices and online meetings, one essential piece of furniture is a computer desk. Sure, you can use your laptop on your, well, lap, but the resulting stiff neck and sore back aren’t productivity-friendly. Computer desks come in all shapes, designs, and sizes, that choosing one for your space can be an enjoyable process.

A conventional computer desk is typically 52 inches wide, 30 inches tall, and 20 inches deep. You will need at least 23 to 25 inches of space to provide adequate legroom when seated. Adjustable desks that go up to 48 inches tall would be a suitable option for people over 6 feet tall.

Aside from the size of the desk, you need to consider many other factors. For example, the height of the user, the desk’s location in the home, frequency of use, storage space, and so on. To follow are a few common examples of computer desks and their sizes found in many residences and offices today.

A basic computer desk does not require a huge amount of space. In fact, most are only 32 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 30 inches tall. The most common monitor size is 23 inches, which works perfectly fine on a 48-inch wide surface.

Many folks still use home computers with a separate CPU unit. A CPU is normally 8 inches wide, 20 inches long, and 22 inches tall. Most setups have the CPU unit under the desk instead of on it. However, if you do require your CPU on the desk, a standard-sized computer desk still works quite well.

This desk’s size doesn’t provide much space for you to do paperwork or display a few key personal items. Instead, it offers a surface area for a personal computer with a keyboard, mouse, and a CPU unit, if necessary. If the computer in use is a laptop, there is room available for documents, even a picture frame or two.

Another very popular type of computer desk is one that offers some storage space. Pens, papers, other electronic devices, charging cables, all these things require space without impeding your computer work. Desks with drawers are certainly an option that is readily available and with many designs to choose from.

This particular model showcases a variety of storage places. Larger than a standard computer desk, this type is almost 60 inches wide, 23 ½ inches deep, and 29 inches tall. The expanded width includes a pencil drawer, a large cabinet on the left, and two deep drawers on the right.

The left side cabinet is 10 ¾ inches wide, 19 ½ inches deep, and 24 inches tall. The top drawer on the right is almost 9 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and about 6 inches high. The bottom drawer measures 9 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and is 9 inches tall.

Check out this guide for information on file cabinet dimensions.

A computer desk with a hutch has its obvious advantages, namely, storage space. However, its traditional design may not work well in a home or office with a modern aesthetic. But if storage is one of your primary considerations for a computer desk, this type is the way to go.

This desk is basically the same size as the desk with drawers, except for the substantial built-in hutch. The hutch adds 27 inches more storage space vertically, portioned out into smaller compartments. These organizational-type storage slots work well for sorting bills, envelopes, and sundry mail.

Computer desks with built-in hutches are great options for homes with a more traditional design style. Most of these desks come in a natural wood finish or painted in neutral colors, like browns, greens, and creams. You may find these desks in someone’s home office, library, even perhaps in a substantial-sized kitchen.

The wall-mounted computer desk is a brilliant space saver in homes with limited room for additional furniture pieces. This desk transforms an empty wall with at least 20 inches of space in front of it into a workstation. Aside from saving space, this desk is a great addition for homes with a minimalistic approach.

The standard wall-mounted computer desk is 41 inches wide, 39 ½ inches tall, and 19 inches deep. This particular model provides shelving on one side, with shelves ranging from 7 ½ to 13 ¼ inches tall. The weight capacity of each shelf is anywhere from 5 to 10 lbs, depending on the shelf size.

At 29 ½ inches wide, the surface area provides enough room for a laptop or even a desktop monitor. However, a desktop computer would mean that the desk surface will always be engaged, limiting the versatility of this piece. A laptop computer is ideal for this desk type.

This streamlined little number is a fabulous computer desk option for a student’s room or a small, modernistic apartment. It comes with minimal yet functional shelving as well as a built-in electrical outlet. You can install the upper shelving in a couple of different ways to maximize the surface work area.

This desk is 39.4 inches wide, 19.7 inches deep, and 30 inches tall, with an additional upper shelf. Two narrow drawers, each measuring 14.6 inches wide and 11.8 inches deep, make up the remaining storage area. Its narrow legs complete the minimalistic look that is indicative of the contemporary style.

Either desktop or laptop works with this modern-style desk. Documents can be put away in one drawer with pens and office sundries tucked away in the other. Another advantage of this piece is the ease of assembly, handling, and disassembly in case of an eventual move.

A standing or adjustable desk is yet another option to consider for a computer workstation. These desks are typically standard in both length and depth but with varying heights. Most of these do not come with storage options, save a narrow drawer or a top shelf.

This desk is an excellent choice for tall people, providing adequate legroom after adjusting the surface height accordingly. A standing desk is also an excellent option for individuals who do not wish to sit for hours while working. Stand on an anti-fatigue mat, adjust the desk surface to about elbow height, and type away.

The mechanism responsible for adjusting the height varies depending on the brand and model of the desk. Many come with an electrical adjusting system, while others rely on manual power by using an old-fashioned crank. Either one works well, and choosing one over the other is simply a matter of personal preference.

Related Questions

How much is a good quality computer desk?

Because of the extensive selection available, you can get a good quality computer desk for as low as $70.  This price point also means you are getting the most basic model possible.  The critical question here is knowing what else you require of the desk aside from having a computer on it. 

What is the smallest desk I can get away with?

Before purchasing a desk, always consider what other items need to be on the desk surface aside from the computer.  The smallest computer desk available has a work surface measuring 19 inches wide and 14 inches deep.  Keep in mind; a standard laptop is 14 inches wide and 10 inches deep.If all you need is to place your laptop on a desk surface, then this size works.  But if you also need space for pens, a writing pad, maybe a coffee cup, then go up a size.  Also, remember that the smaller the desk, the less study it may be.