If you’re in the market for a modern desk, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Some of the things to think about are what the desk’s primary use will be, your style preferences, and your budget.
One of the most common uses for modern desks is for desktop and laptop computers. Sometimes this means that the desktops have special features more appropriate for use with computers. A few examples of these features are a slide-out keyboard tray, a desk tower shelf below the main work surface, additional lower shelves suitable for storing power strips and printers, and clips or cutouts for cable management. Other considerations for computer use are the height of the work surface and the clearance between the bottom of the work surface and where your legs will be when you sit in a chair at the desk. Additional non-computer specific features you may want depending on your needs are a cabinet to store paper documents and office supplies, front drawers to keep supplies and documents out of place, or an attached file cabinet for added document storage in paper.
You’ll also want to give some thought to your style preferences. This includes what materials the desk is made of, as well as the shape and lines of the design. For a contemporary look, materials like painted steel, brushed aluminum, glass tops, and plastic accents are common. In shape and style, modern desks tend to have all straight lines and surfaces, or straight lines mixed with some curved components, such as the legs or work surface. Desks made entirely of wood can also have modern designs, but are usually still primarily traditional in design. For example, the writing desk is one of the more traditional types of desks built from wood and used for writing letters, and it has evolved to be used for laptops in recent years, making it a good choice. Being satisfied with the appearance of your desktop, especially when you keep it clean, can have a positive effect on your enjoyment and productivity levels while working at your desk.
Another thing to consider is your budget and how it relates to your needs. If you’re going to spend full days working at your desk, it makes sense to buy a higher-quality desk that can last for several years and is as comfortable as possible. Higher quality desks are generally built with more durable and pleasing materials, have a superior fit and finish, and are more expensive. If you find that your budget does not allow you to buy a new desk of the quality that you really need, consider some alternatives, such as buying a used desk from locals at online classified sites or used furniture stores.