The best gaming desk can completely change the way you play, especially if you spend a lot of time at your PC setup. Sure, any old surface can technically provide space for your monitor and accessories, but using something specifically designed for using new tech to play the latest releases comes with massive benefits. I'm not trying to shame any of you who just use a makeshift dining table, as I've been there, but investing in a desk is absolutely the way to go.
The best gaming desk right now is the Secretlab Magnus Pro. It mainly earns my overall top spot thanks to its attention to cable management, build quality, and extra features. It's also surprisingly contemporary for something for "gaming" since many furniture pieces with that status are clad in RGB and racing stripes. That said, I have plenty of other picks that boast the same attributes with different use cases, and I've spent a few hours testing them playing everything from Baldur's Gate 3 to shooters like Overwatch 2.
To save you from drowning in a sea of surface options, I've rounded up all the best gaming desks and provided buying advice based on hands-on testing and experience. Let's just say I've spent enough time sitting and standing at surfaces to point you toward the perfect model, even if your budget is a bit tighter.
The quick list
The best overall
The Secretlab Magnus Pro is a superb standing surface that leads the charge with super smooth motors and solid build quality.
The best for most
A juggernaut gaming desk with plenty of add-ons, incredible max weight, and smooth motorized functionality.
The best budget desk
It's cheap, cheerful, and perhaps a bit on the small side, but this Homall desk includes fun extras like a headphone hook and cupholder that are great value.
The best standing desk
On your feet, soldier. The Flexispot E7 Pro is a heavy duty standing desk that'll keep you comfortably upright while gaming.
The best mid-range desk
The Eureka Z1S gaming desk comes with, you guessed it, cupholders, what more could you want from your furniture?
The best premium desk
You could pick up multiple for the price, but this premium desk comes with a 12 year warranty.
Load the next two products ↓
The best L shaped desk
Nobody puts baby in a corner, but this L shaped gaming desk is certainly built to fit into those awkward nooks. Combining form and function with a professional vibes.
The best RGB desk
The AndaSeat Mask 2 proves you can add RGB to practically anything. With a spacious worktop and vibrant LEDs it should blend in nicely with your setup. Not to mention the headphone hooks.
Phil has been sitting at gaming desks since the '90s, and fondly remembers using one of those all-in-one family workstations with the little doors in the front. A lot has changed since then, and they're now a PC setup connoisseur, particularly when it comes to creating high-tech, contemporary battle stations that aren't just needlessly clad in RGB lighting.
Recent updates
December 6, 2024 - You'll now find a handy score breakdown at the bottom of each best gaming desk pick ranking models on value, size, stability, build-quality, and features. This will make it easier to see which desk fits your priorities at a glance as well as highlight differences between each surface.
Best gaming desk
The Secretlab Magnus Pro is the best gaming desk on the market right now, offering up plenty of surface space, robust build quality, and plenty of features that'll take your space to the next level. That's before you get to its standing functionality, but it will set you back far more than ordinary options.
✅ You want excellent cable management: The Magnus has a concealed compartment around back for cables and extension cords, complete with integrated power so that a single wire can supply your entire setup.
✅ You want something durable: Secretlabs' desk is a tank thanks to its all metal construction and lavish desk toppers.
✅ You love add-ons: There's a wealth of add-ons for the Secretlab Magnus Pro, from monitor arms to risers and headphone hooks.
❌ You'd prefer contemporary: The Magnus range admittedly looks industrial, and some of you adding it to your living room may prefer something more traditional.
❌ You want more depth: Even the Secretlab Magnus Pro XL isn't as deep as other desk out there, so if you need plenty of depth, it might not be the best option.
Features: As a gaming desk, the Magnus Pro uses its feature-set to go the extra mile. From its built-in cable management trough at the back to having a power outlet on its left leg, there's no real reason why you should have any visible wires at this desk. If you've got the need for a specific accessory for Secretlab's unit, there's also a strong chance it exists as an optional extra too. PC holders, monitor risers, and a Secretlab Heavy Duty Monitor Arm that will hold even chonky screens like the Philips Evnia 42M2N8900 are all an option here, leaving you spoiled for choice.
Design: The Magnus Pro almost feels like belongs on a military spacecraft, featuring an all-metal body with a magnetic desk pad living on top. That helps provide it with a build quality that almost goes unrivalled, but it is far more industrial than options with a splash of woodgrain included. Smaller touches like keeping the touch motorized control panel and display flush to the desk's lip also demonstrate that Secretlab really knows how to make a solid surface, and the modular nature of the whole model really shines.
Performance: It's safe to say that for gaming purposes, the Secretlab Magnus Pro punches pretty hard with stellar usability and performance. Smooth motorized lifts mean you'll be able to raise and lower your entire setup like magic, and eliminating 99% of visible cables really does free up your peripheral vision for those serious competitive moments. The leather topper also means you won't really need to worry about extra mats either, and that's a win when it comes to other projects and things that'd normally take a chunk out of wood furniture.
One thing that is worth nothing is that if you're looking for a desk that's completely immune to wobble, this isn't it. Don't get me wrong, it's absolutely solid, but you will feel it tilt slightly if you put weight on the very front. This isn't a deal breaker, just something worth mentioning if you have some really intensive projects in mind and need something that feels virtually unmovable.
Verdict: The Secretlab Magnus Pro is the closest thing you'll find to gaming desk perfection out there that the moment. The only real caveat tied to this desk is the fact it's $799 / £798, as that's absolutely a serious investment. Just like when picking up a gaming chair, I would argue that since many of you will spend more time at your gaming setup than a sofa that will normally cost more, it's an expensive you shouldn't really feel guilty about considering.
Read more: Secretlab Magnus Pro review
| Value | ★★★★☆ |
| Size | ★★★★★ |
| stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★★ |
| Features | ★★★★★ |
The best gaming desk for most players
Out of all the gaming desks out there right now, the FlexiSpot E7 Plus feels like a contender that offers versatility. Sure, it's not as feature-packed as our overall pick, and there are options that lean more into gaming. However, this specific model's max weight capacity and juggernaut design means it'll reliably hold your setup for many years.
✅ You want extreme sturdiness: Try as you might, but there's not much that can make this desk wobble even with your whole body weight applied to the front.
✅ You want wood effect: FlexiSpots' range of wood toppers are contemporary and will fit into most spaces.
✅ You want something tall: This desk can reach over four feet, making it perfect for standing or different activities.
❌ You want more included features: While you can pick up optional extras for the E7 Plus, it doesn't come with any additional cable management provisions.
❌ You'd prefer gamer vibes: Design-wise, the E7 Plus is pretty tame, so you'll want to shop around if you love RGB and gaming shenanigans.
Features: The E7 Plus' main draw is the fact it's a sturdy standing desk, and it provides that using FlexiSpot's signature digital control unit at the front. It can reach up to 51.6 inches tall, giving you over 4 feet of height to work with for projects and standing gaming sessions. But, the important thing is that it won't even slightly shake with weight or pressure applied, making it idea for building PCs, playing games, or even working on intricate projects while on your feet.
Design: Armed with two T-shaped legs and motorized height adjustment, the FlexISpot E7 Plus is one of the most study desks I've ever used. You can try your hardest to wobble this 48.5 lbs surface, but both its design and weight contribute to its unmovable qualities. You'll curse its name when putting it together, as all that heft does make for a workout during assembly. But, once you see the finished project, complete with its woodgrain top and rounded edges, you'll be pretty chuffed.
Performance: During testing, I found the E7 Plus to be an absolute brute of a desk. Assembly was straight forward thanks to FlexiSpot's instructions, but it did mean creating screw holes and other more involved steps compared to some flat pack. Once up and running, the surface proved itself with premium motorized performance and nice rounded edges that didn't offend my fore arms or elbows, making for a solid sitting and standing experience.
Verdict: If the best of the best is too rich for you, picking up the E7 Plus should result in a more approachable premium result. It's shame it doesn't come with some of its optional features by default, as it could have snagged the top space if it included more storage and cable management solutions. Both can be picked up after the fact for this desk, so if you like the sound of its study levels of comfort, don't let that put you off.
Read more: Flexispot E7 Plus review
| Value | ★★★★★ |
| Size | ★★★★★ |
| stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | ★★★★☆ |
Best budget gaming desk
Priced at $89.99, and even usually on sale for cheaper than this, the Homall gaming desk is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a whole suite of features and decent construction all under $100. This model features not only a non-slip carbon fiber tabletop, which is rarer on budget desks but also a headphone hook and cupholder as small quality of life inclusions.
✅ You want something for gaming: If you don't want to spend over $100 but still need gaming-themed features, this desk has you covered.
✅ You want a durable top: Kitted out with a non-slip carbon-fibre effect topper, this desk will survive even hectic gaming dessions
✅ You want a standard shape: Since the Homall uses a traditional rectangular approach, it should slot in just fine to existing spaces.
❌ You'd prefer something more subtle: The Homall isn't too loud, but its red legs and black top might stand out in some spaces.
❌ You want bigger: There are far bigger desks out there, and spending more could result in something more suited to your setup needs.
Features: The Homall Gaming Desk surprisingly boast a few features that feel more lavish than its price tag. For starters, it's got a carbon-fibre textured top that provides a nice sense of durability, a cupholder to keep treacherous beverages away from your expensive gaming keyboard and mouse, plus a gaming headset hook to the right-hand side. In truth, some of these perks feel like they'll appeal more to younger players starting out their PC journey, but it's hardly a bad thing considering its approachable MSRP.
Design: Measuring in at 23.6 inches deep and with up to 63-inch wide models available, space isn't remotely an issue with the Homall. It's actually far more accommodating than other cheap desks out there, and provides enough of a reason not to use a dining table as a makeshift gaming station instead. It's also relatively sturdy thanks to its Z-shaped leg approach, which in turn adds to the piece's gaming aesthetic. Again, it's a bit more "kids bedroom" than contemporary living space addition, but that's no surprise really.
Performance: The main thing that should stand out when using Homall's desk is its sturdiness, as it certainly exceeds price tag expectations. This is undoubtedly tied to its specific design rather than materials since it doesn't use a lot of heavy wood or metal, but it still avoids feeling shakey or fragile. The top space is also extremely handy if you have a multi-monitor setup or like to pop your rig on up top, and for well under $100, that's a pretty big boon.
Verdict: It's safe to say there aren't many gaming desks for under $100 like the Homall, and if funds are tight, it'll serve as a reliable surface. Naturally, there are caveats tied to its cheapness like potential defects and less premium-feeling elements compared to others on this list. But, those are easier to accept when dealing with budget options like this, and whether it's your first surface or just something to get you by right now, this model will impress.
| Value | ★★★★★ |
| Size | ★★★★★ |
| stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★☆☆ |
| Features | ★★★★☆ |
Best standing gaming desk
The Flexispot E7 Pro is far from the cheapest surface on the market, but it's versatility and approachability make it our best standing desk pick. It's also pretty elegant compared to some gaming furniture out there, and it manages to pack plenty of features into its frame to accommodate your battle station needs.
✅ You want to mostly stand: As one of our best standing desk picks, this surface is ideal for those of you who want to mostly game on your feet.
✅ You love woodgrain: If you're looking for something modern and stylish, you'll dig FlexiSpots' range of woodgrain toppers.
✅ You like simplicity: Keeping quirks and features to a minimum means the desk keeps things low key in a good way.
❌ Cable management is priority: The E7 Pro doesn't do much to resolve any cabling woes, so you'll need to pick up add-ons.
❌ You want something more sturdy: L-shaped legs mean it's not quite as sturdy as its E7 Plus sibling.
Features: In many ways, the E7 Pro takes what the vanilla Flexispot E7 does and ramps things up to eleven. It boasts exceptionally smooth motorized controls, leads the way with 440 lbs maximum supported load, and will furnish your setup with plenty of USB-A ports and ways to manage cables. I ultimately feel like a desk that's courteous to its user, as even its adjustable motor springs into action as soon as its front panel buttons are pressed but avoids juddering like many alternatives out there.
Design: Provided you're not looking for a standing desk with extra storage capacity, the Flexispot E7 Pro is up there with the top surfaces available right now. While we tested the model with a bamboo top, you can also opt for one that's made of a mouse pad material, provided you're looking for something ultra-gaming-focused. That level of flexibility with toppers makes it great for fitting into shaped spaces, as not everyone will vibe with edgy gamer vibes.
It's worth highlighting that unlike the E7 Plus above, the Pro model uses L-shaped legs. This ties into its lower load capacity, and while it's not as unmovable as the T-shape approach, it's certainly a solid and smooth standing desk regardless.
Performance: The experience sitting in front of the E7 Pro isn't too dissimilar to the original and Plus versions, and that's exactly why it's a great standing desk. If you're not looking to pay more for extra heft, or splash out on an alternative brand with more bells and whistles, Flexispot's model will provide heaps of surface space, smooth sit-to-stand functionality, and pre-sets for if you've got standing preferences for specific activities.
Verdict: When it comes to Flexispot's standing desk range, I'd start with the E7 Pro. Doing so means you'll be balancing functionality, build quality, and features before deciding if you'd be happy with less in the normal E7 or more with the Plus. Similar cons come with all three, like the control panel being a little too in the way at the front and a lack of included add-ons, but it's still the desk I'd pick if standing is a priority.
| Value | ★★★★☆ |
| Size | ★★★★★ |
| stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | ★★★☆☆ |
Best mid-range gaming desk
Stepping things up from budget entry-level, the Eureka Z1S represents good mid-range value within the gaming desk space. It hits many of the same notes as something like the sub-$100 Homall, but can handle a bit more weight on top and boasts a bit more flair.
✅ You're buying for a younger player: This desk is geared towards players who are just starting out, with features like a cup holder providing useful novelty.
✅ You always use a headset: Little extras like a headphone stand mean you won't be stuck for a place to put peripherals.
✅ You want a gaming desk: Compared to some more grown-up options, this desk looks like it belongs next to a gaming PC specifically.
❌ You want something stylish: Eureka's desk is ultimately more geared towards traditional gamer setups than stylish office spaces.
❌ You'd rather avoid novelties: Cupholders and other quirks are fun, but they might be redundant as part of a professional setup.
Features: If you liked what the Homall above had to offer, but wanted to spend a little bit more to ensure quality, the Eureka Z1S is likely the answer. It sings from the exact same hymn book with a carbon fibre top and extras like cup holders, catering more to the novel side of PC gaming for players just getting into desktop setups. The extra space also means you won't immediately need an upgrade as your hardware expands, as there's plenty of room for more screens and peripherals.
Design: It's another cheaper desk with Z-shaped legs, and that's not something to turn your nose up at. Yes, they aren't quite as subtle, so it'll stick out in your fancy living room next to all that oak furniture. But, the slight garishness comes with excellent stability, not to mention it'll hold up to 500 lbs of tech on top. It even makes room for some RGB lighting at each side, and while that won't remotely be to everyone's liking, 11-year-old me would have been completely on board.
Performance: Eureka's steel leg and carbon fibre top look the part, but they also provide that sense of build performance you want in a PC desk. The provided wire holes should be enough to pull off an acceptable level of cable management, but you will have to get creative if you want zero visible trails. Since we're talking mid-range, build quality also can feel a little lacking compared to premium surfaces, with some sharper edges leading to the overall package feeling less refined.
Verdict: As a contender in the middle-ground gaming desk ring, the Eureka Z1S can throw some serious punches. It's going to impress with its little extras and stability if you can get it at its lowest price (normally around $150), and its large enough that younger players won't immediately outgrow it.
| Value | ★★★★☆ |
| Size | ★★★★★ |
| stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | ★★★☆☆ |
Best premium gaming desk
The Herman Miller X Logitech G Nevi is a premium gaming desk in every sense of the word. Yup, it has a hefty price tag but this is a seriously nice desk for work and play. Its premium build, feel, and finish, and build are superb, while it is a beautiful sit-to-stand desk with strong motors, making it perfect for use all day work, and all-night gaming.
✅ You want ultra-premium: Herman Miller is a name closely associated with quality, and its desk is a testament to the brand's premium status.
✅ You need a desk for life: With a 12-year warranty, this surface is likely to outlive your PC, peripherals, and potentially even some of your favorite live service games.
✅ You want simple controls: Two buttons is all some standing players will need, and that's exactly what you'll get with the Herman Miller.
❌ You want programmable settings: Keeping those buttons simple means you won't be able to set specific heights using programmable keys.
❌ You'd rather spend less: Price is a huge kicker with this desk, and you could buy plenty of other surfaces that'll provide the same level of performance.
Features: This is admittedly a given, but Herman Miller's desk uses it's premium aura as a main selling point. And, for what it's worth, it delivers on that front, providing lavish build quality, discrete cable management, and a soft touch matt topper that'll fight off smudges and glare. In other words, this desk's prime directive is to look the part, which unfortunately means it lacks the Logitech extras you'd perhaps expect with a piece of gaming furniture this price.
Design: The Nevi's aesthetic is a symphony in black - and it looks chic and heck as a result of this restrained aesthetic. Part of me would have loved some flashes of Logitech blue on parts to give a nod to the gaming hardware's pedigree and name on the Nevi - just like the Embody chair - but such touches would probably be hard to register while sitting at the desk. And the black colorway means it'll go with anything too.
Performance: Herman Miller products are normally all about feel and aesthetics, and that's where this desk excels. You'll immediately be able to tell that this surface costs a lot of money while perched in front of it, and it keeps everything else simple to maintain that vibe. That also happens to be the desk's biggest weakness, as aside from some simple up and down controls for heigh adjustment, there's not much else going on with this surface.
That's bound to rub many of you the wrong way, and I have my reservations about splashing out on a desk that does less than many of its cheaper premium rivals. Some USB ports of charging would have been been nice, but alas, what you're simply getting here is a phenomenally well made piece of gaming kit. I could spend all day pointing out models that pack more functionality, but this specific category is all about that premium vibe.
Verdict: You're unlikely to find a desk that can out-class Herman Miller Navi, but it's not one for players seeking game-changing features. If you're the kind of person who wants to embrace boutique levels of quality in every area of your life, you'll want to fork out for the exuberant cost of this battle station.
| Value | ★★★☆☆ |
| Size | ★★★★☆ |
| stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★★ |
| Features | ★★★☆☆ |
- Read more: Herman Miller X Logitech Nevi review
Best L-shaped gaming desk
The Fezibo Triple Motor L-Shaped Desk is our new go to surface for game room corners, and while it's not perfect, it hits harder than many other angled options out there. It strikes a fantastic balance between space, functionality, and dashing good looks, and it won't look out of place in less gamery living rooms.
✅ You've got a corner setup: L-shaped desks are ideal for those of you trying to squeeze your setup in between two walls.
✅ You want smooth movement: Height adjustment with this surface is notably smooth despite its unconventional shape.
✅ You need layout efficiency: Rather than using a cape and corner approach, this L-shape will provide the comfort of a conventional desk and space across two walls.
❌ You'd rather have one surface: Using an L surface means you're dealing with two desks, which might take up more room than some players would like.
❌ You need something deep: This desk is pretty shallow, and sticking with conventional rectangles should grant you more vertical space.
Features: We can all probably agree that an L-shaped standing desk is a bit novel, and it's certainly the main reason I'd pick up this Fezibo model. Its corner-friendly shape and included risers mean it's a space saver through and through, enabling you to spread your setup across two walls rather than within one rectangle. Of course, you don't have to even stick it in a corner, and the angled approach could ne a nice way to show off the back of your fancy montior.
Design: Corner desks can be a pain, and if you're not into the office units of yesteryear approach, you'll want to give an L-shaped surface a try. This one makes great use of space by having equally long sides, meaning you won't have limited space on either end. That's important if you have lots of screens and peripherals, and it could also help you split up elements for work, play, and even streaming.
As for the materials used, Fezibo has opted for a light veneer that will almost certainly need a desk mat for protection. Getting one to fit within a right angle might be a pain, but this is the kind of surface that'll mark easy.
Performance: Admittedly, the Fezibo Triple Motor L-Shaped Desk isn't the simplest surface to put together, and it did cause our reviewer some turmoir. However, once put together, it proved to be a great looking corner surface with plenty of space on top, convenient hooks for your gaming headset, and smooth controls that prevented a ruckus when moving from sitting to standing mode. Built in monitor risers also help free up some more space for your gaming keyboard, mouse, or even the best gaming handheld, so you won't have to worry about if your tech will actually fit.
Verdict: While you'll certainly find better made desks out there, especially since this model uses veneer rather than a solid top, it ultimately looks the part. If you're not really into RGB and racing stripes, then this model will furnish you with the subtlety you're looking for, and it'll serve budding streamers and causal users a like well.
| Value | ★★★☆☆ |
| Size | ★★★☆☆ |
| stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | ★★★☆☆ |
Best RGB gaming desk
RGB desk? RGB desk! This one is for those of you who love putting on a light show, as the AndaSeat Mask 2 comes armed with nice lighting. It has more going for it than just pretty colors, but if you're in the market for something flashy, this is the desk for you.
✅ You love RGB: As far as rainbow lighting goes, this desk gives of a night diffused glow that'll appeal to flashy players and those looking for minimalist style a like.
✅ You like little extras: Headphone hooks and other neat tricks help provide that gaming functionality feel.
✅ You want plenty of space: As a surface, AndaSeat's desk is pretty roomy and should accommodate most setups.
❌ You don't care about RGB: Lighting is the main draw here, so you'll want to look around if you're not into multicolored aesthetics.
❌ You want premium accessories: The included add-ons are notably cheap feeling thanks to their plastic materials, meaning they don't exactly scream quality.
Features: Out of all the gaming features out there, RGB can be the most contentious. Getting lighting right on products isn't easy, but the AndaSeat Mask 2 sets a nice example with its nicely diffused strips on the legs and sides. That helps prevent eating any space up on top and keeps in-view distractions to a minimum, both of which are vital to maintain the functionality of furniture like this.
Design: Flashy lights aside, the Mask 2 is a fairly standing looking gaming desk. It's rectangular, so no funny business going on with its shape, and it uses a single collumn set of T-shaped legs for support. That will limit what you can place underneath, so it's worth keeping in mind if you like to keep your rig at your ankles.
The main point of frustration that we found in our testing was in the LED light strip which needs to be threaded through a thin metal frame. It took us more attempts than we care to admit to get it right, but of course, your mileage may vary here.
Performance: For the most part, the Mask 2 makes a big impression as an RGB gaming desk. It's sturdy, gives off a nice glow through its strips, and avoids looking too garish with other design elements. It does let the side down a little with the fact there's no customization software for the lighting, only capacitive buttons. And, the cable management box included is a little cheap, feeling more like an entry-level add-on.
Verdict: The AndaSeat Mask 2 is one of the nicest looking RGB desks out there, especially if you're not looking to fork out on a premium model with optional strips. It's a bit finnicky to put together, and there are some cheaper feeling elements that may upset some of you. However, it hit hard with its illumination, making it well worth considering.
| Value | ★★★☆☆ |
| Size | ★★★☆☆ |
| stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Build-quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Features | ★★★★☆ |
Best gaming desks - frequently asked questions
What size desk is best for gaming?
While there's no exact one size fits all solution as far as the best sizes of gaming desks, we've generally found that a minimum size tabletop of 30 (W) x 23 (H) should accommodate most people. Ideally, if you have the room for it, then going bigger is always going to be better, though, depending on the real estate available to you.
What desk to pro gamers use?
All things considered, we'd bet that the majority of pro gamers are using the Secretlab Magnus Pro, or something similar to it. Whether its for streaming or high-level performance, the Magnus pro is the best for desk space, cable management, and can even be a standing desk too. Elsewhere, corner desks are also some of the best gaming desks for pro gamers since they offer a lot of versatility.
Are standing desks worth it for gaming?
Standing desks can be a great addition to your gaming setup. Plenty of content creators, streamers, and other pro gamers will have standing desks due to their harsh schedules that make it tough to stay active. There are plenty of great standing desks that are designed for gaming specifically - ones like the Secretlabs Magnus Pro, for example. Using a standing desk obviously doesn't mean standing the whole day, but a few hours each day can make the world of difference to your circulation, as well as your focus.
What are good gaming desk brands?
Many of the best gaming desks brands our featured in our roundup, with the likes of Secretlab, AndaSeat, Arozzi, Eureka Ergonomics, and Respawn making some of the best tabletops on the market right now. While these companies are perhaps best known for their chairs, these options show that the commitment to quality furniture continues passed them, too. For a more traditional desk setup, such as one without carbon fiber and flashing lights, Eureka and FlexiSpot should have you covered, too.
Are desk mats good for gaming?
While we love our tried and true mousepads of all shapes and sizes, opting for an all-over desk mat can be an interesting shake up as well. As you've see from the likes of the Arozzi Arena, a desk mat (or textured tabletop finish) eliminates the need for a mousepad that's cut to size, instead meaning you've got free-reign for your pointer anywhere on the work surface. A desk mat is unlikely to make you any better at FPS or RTS games, however, it could be an added convenience should you find one affordably priced.
How should I organize my gaming desk?
Any good gaming desk setup will typically contain at least one gaming monitor (or several) along with a keyboard, mouse and some kind of speakers or soundbar. We generally find that games consoles mounted vertically, such as the PS5 or Xbox Series X, work well when put to one side, too. It will generally depend on the weight capacity of your gaming desk of choice, though, we would generally advise having your gaming PC on the floor if able as a tower can take up an awful lot of valuable space, and may even weigh more than your other gaming gear combined.
How to choose a gaming desk
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As something of a setup connoisseur, I fully believe there's an art to choosing a gaming desk. Not every surface will suit all players universally, and while playing games is a personal priority within the decision making process, it's important to take adjacent activities into consideration.
For example, if you're into building PCs and upgrading your rig, picking something sturdy enough to serve as a workbench is wise. Those of you with limited space will want to go with something smaller too, which narrows your list down to surfaces with narrower dimensions. On the flip side, you don't want to fall into the trap of immediately running out of space when trying to fit multiple monitors on top of your new desk, so always take your hardware into consideration when choosing.
Of course, all of the above is dependant on budget too. Furniture prices can range from approachable to premium investments, and how much you're willing to spend will impact features and build quality. That's not to say you can't get a fantastic desk for cheap, but you'll have to be extra careful when eyeing up anything under $150. Sticking with reliable brands is a good way to avoid post-purchase disappointment, and checking in with us regularly for reviews will go a long way.
How we test gaming desks at GamesRadar+
Here at GamesRadar+, we test each gaming desk that arrives on the scene thoroughly using our expertise, experience, and knowledge of setups. In turn, this allows us to determine the best use case for each model, how it stacks up in terms of value, and whether it provides enough functionality to enhance your experience playing games.
The gaming desk review process journey starts off with assembly, as putting furniture together can make or break your overall experience. It can also provide an indication to the quality of the product as well as whether there are any major defects. During this part of the process, we carefully examine the desk's build quality and check if aspects like screw holes, fixtures, and fittings align properly. We also like to check over any included instructions to make sure they correspond to the assembly process correctly.
Once the gaming desk is assembled, we then check over the complete build. Viewing each model at both stages of the process makes it easer to pick up on defects or anything that's out of place with the desk, in addition to providing a vanilla view of the surface before its put to use. This is important, as it's essentially a way to catch any major issues before going through life scenarios with the piece.
Only after we're satisfied that a desk is ready to be put to use will be start to use it with other setup elements. Typically, we'll try out each surface with a gaming monitor, mouse, keyboard, and PC, but we will add or subtract appropriately based on the size of each model. If a desk includes optional add-ons, we will also make use of these in the testing process, ensuring to take notes on compatibility and quality.
Since we're talking about desks designed to be used by every day players, we then incorporate review models into our daily lives. That includes working at the desk, playing games, and using it for any other projects that may pop up. Throughout, we'll keep a record of any pros and cons that pop up, alongside anything noteworthy in regards to functionality.
When reviewing standing desks specifically, we add in extra tests for sit-to-stand usability as well as different playstyles. Typically, that means switching from eat to seat for extended periods to assess comfort and functionality when playing games, which in turn highlights any issues with stability or motor smoothness.
For even more information on how we test gaming desks, make sure to swing by our full hardware policy for an extended rundown.
Now you've sorted a desk, you'll need something to put on top of it. Here's our list of the best gaming monitors. If you'd rather have something you can take on the go, here are all the best gaming laptops available on the market right now.
