If you need a workspace in an already cramped home office, a new style of desk might be right for you. The floating desk, rather than sitting on the floor, mounts to the wall, making it ideal for a home that doesn’t have a lot of extra space to spare. Even if space isn’t a consideration, you can opt for a floating desk simply for its aesthetics. Once installed, they have a built-in look that can give a home a more sleek and finished appearance.
The Giantex Wall-Mounted Floating Computer Desk is a top choice if you want a model that replicates the feeling of a traditional desk. It has a wide work surface and three spacious cubbies to help you keep things organized.
What to know before you buy a floating desk
How much workspace do you need?
Before purchasing any desk, you should consider how much workspace you need. The last thing you want is to buy one, only to find out it doesn’t offer enough room for your computer setup and various decorations, or enough space to work comfortably.
The smallest floating desks have a workspace that measures between 10 and 15 inches deep. While this may be suitable for a laptop, it often isn’t enough if you have a desktop computer or an all-in-one PC. Models between 18 and 24 inches are more reasonable for those with a traditional computer setup or who will be studying from a book and jotting down notes on a separate piece of paper at the same time.
There are also some floating desks that extend more than 24 inches from the wall. However, these will usually have folding legs to ensure they are stable.
Weight limit
Because floating desks are mounted to the wall, they usually have lower weight capacities than traditional floor-standing desks. Most can support somewhere between 30 and 50 pounds, though there are some models that are rated for up to 100.
When choosing your model, consider the weight of everything you will be putting on the work surface, such as a computer and speakers, as well as items that will be placed on the shelves and in the drawers. It is best to choose a floating desk with a weight capacity well over that of all the items you will be putting on it just to be on the safe side. Also, take into account the fact that you may be leaning some of your body weight on the desk while using it.
Floating desk features
Folding workspace
If you are buying a floating desk for a small space, it may make sense to choose a folding model. On these, the work surface will fold down when needed but can be hidden out of the way when not in use. The downside to folding models is that they often have a lower weight capacity than non-folding models. However, if you buy a folding model that also has legs that fold down, this may not be as big of an issue.
Shelves
Many floating desks incorporate shelves to store books and other workspace items. The shelves may be above, below or alongside the work surface and they are sometimes height adjustable. On folding models, some or all of the shelves are often concealed when the desk is folded up.
Drawers
In addition to shelves, floating desks may have drawers to store things like pens and pencils, paper clips, scissors, printer paper and various other supplies. These will help you keep your desk looking clean and clutter-free, rather than having everything out and in the open.
Keyboard tray
If you’ll be using your floating desk for a desktop computer, you may want to look for a model with a sliding keyboard tray. This way, you’ll have one less accessory taking up valuable desktop space that could otherwise be used for working.
Cable management system
Cable management systems provide you with dedicated cutouts to run wires through so you won’t be left with a tangled jumble of cords hanging off the edge of your desk. In addition to holes for running wires, some floating desks have hidden compartments for power strips and surge protectors.
Floating desk cost
The most basic and affordable floating desks start at around $50. However, if you prefer something with drawers and shelves, expect to spend at least $100. Premium models with solid wood construction can cost up to $500 or more.
Floating desk FAQ
Can I install a floating desk myself?
A. Most people who are comfortable with anchoring and mounting items on their walls will be able to install a floating desk without the need to hire a professional. However, you may want to enlist the aid of another person when it comes time to lift up the desk and attach it to the wall.
Are floating desks safe to use?
A. Just like anything that is mounted to a wall, floating desks are safe as long as they are installed correctly and never loaded up with more than the recommended weight capacity.
Which floating desk should I get?
Best of the best floating desk
Prepac Designer Floating Desk: available at Staples and Home Depot
Our take: A simple but elegant option, this model is ideal for someone who wants a good amount of workspace but doesn’t need a bunch of shelves for books or decorations.
What we like: This desk has cable management cutouts and a hidden compartment for a powerstrip, so you won’t be left with cables cluttering up your workspace.
What we dislike: Assembling it is time-consuming.
Best bang for your buck floating desk
SEI Furniture Willingham Wall Mount Folding Laptop Desk: available at Amazon
Our take: Thanks to its thin profile and fold-down work surface, this model is ideal for small spaces.
What we like: It is smartly designed with a variety of useful storage spaces, including a drawer, an angled document organizer and even a corkboard.
What we dislike: It can only support up to 30 pounds, which may not be enough for some.
Honorable mention floating desk
Prepac Storage and Keyboard Tray Floating Desk: available at Amazon, Macy’s and Home Depot
Our take: If you are setting up your floating desk with a traditional desktop or all-in-one PC, this one of your best options.
What we like: This desk has a sliding keyboard tray, plenty of shelf space and comes in several finishes to match a range of decors.
What we dislike: The finish isn’t very durable and can scratch easily.
Brett Dvoretz is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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