What Is The Best Desk Size For Gaming?

When choosing a gaming desk, there are several factors that can make or break your setup. One of these factors is its size. Selecting the right gaming desk size can transform your gaming area into a more comfortable, efficient and immersive setup. A desk that is the incorrect size, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable, hinder your gaming performance, and even be bad for your health in the long-run.

At Friska, we are the only manufacturers of standing gaming desks in the UK (and possibly Europe!) and, as such, we know our stuff when it comes to gaming setups. 

In this guide, we'll run through the essential dimensions you need to consider for your gaming desk, including its height, width, depth and shape, and the benefits of choosing the right size desk for your space. 

What Height Should a Gaming Desk Be?

For seated desks, your desk height should allow your arms to rest at a 90-degree angle when using the keyboard and mouse. For most gamers, this means that the ideal seated desk height will be between 28” and 30” from floor to top, but this will depend on your height.

You might need to adjust the height of your desk chair to ensure a neutral wrist and elbow position, or purchase a taller desk if you are above 6 feet tall and a smaller one if you are shorter than 5 feet 9 inches. 

For a standing desk setup—a popular choice for gamers looking to avoid the health risks associated with sitting for prolonged periods—you also need to aim for a desk height that aligns with your elbows. Your arms should still rest at that 90-degree angle and, for most people, a standing desk height of 30" works well for this.

However, the whole purpose of a standing desk is that it can be adjusted to the perfect height, regardless of if you’re standing up or sitting down. Just make sure its adjustable range allows you to maintain proper posture. 

What Width Should a Gaming Desk Be?

When it comes to desk width, gamers tend to benefit from extra space to accommodate monitors and gaming peripherals such as a mouse, controller, console and headset. 

A width of at least 120 cm tends to be suitable for single-monitor setups with extra room for movement. However, a 160 cm width or more can better serve gamers with dual-monitor setup and/or additional accessories. Professional gamers or streamers, in particular, will benefit from an extra large desk. 

What Depth Should a Gaming Desk Be?

Depth is equally important for maintaining good ergonomics and managing screen distance. A depth of 60-80 cm works best for most gamers, as it provides enough space for monitors while keeping them at a safe distance to reduce eye strain. Around 75 cm is optimal for placing a monitor at arm's length, though, in order to minimise neck and eye fatigue over time; experts recommend that the distance between your screen and eyes is between 20 to 30 inches (50 to 75 cm)).

What Shape Should a Gaming Desk Be?

The shape of your gaming desk also plays a significant role in maximising your space. While rectangular desks are perfect for single- or dual-monitor setups, lots of gamers prefer an L-shaped desk due to its extended surface are.

This extended are can be used for multitasking—such as switching between your game and Discord—or dual-purpose setup, such as separating gaming and work. The latter is also useful for streamers, who will have more  additional equipment.

Corner desks are similar to L-shaped desks but typically more compact, which is ideal for smaller spaces where you still want a larger desktop surface.

Benefits of Having The Right Size Gaming Desk

Investing in a desk that is the right size for your gaming setup promises several benefits for both casual and competitive gamers.

1. Comfort

Proper desk height, width, and depth promote healthy posture, reduce strain, and prevent discomfort, even during extended gaming sessions (the average gaming sessions lasts a minimum of 1-2 hours). This has positive knock-on effects for your physical health, such as preventing long-term back and neck pain.

A standing desk, in particular, has additional benefits for your health by encouraging you switch between sitting and standing positions, helping to reduce the risk of 34 different "sitting diseases" including obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

Standing up when gaming can also improve your focus, helping you get those all important wins. 

2. Performance

The right amount of space allows for fluid movements, especially if you use a large mouse mat or multiple peripherals. This can help improve your performance, as well as how comfortable you are during gaming sessions. 

3. Less Clutter 

Sufficient surface space ensures that your peripherals, like monitors, consoles, and controllers, are all within reach, reducing clutter and improving focus and aesthetics. 

How Do I Know if My Gaming Desk is Too Low/Too High?

If you’re frequently bending your wrists upward to reach the mouse or keyboard, hunching forward, or looking downward at your screen, your desk may be too low.

If you notice that your elbows are positioned at an angle greater than 90 degrees, that your shoulders are tense, or that you can't comfortably reach your mouse, keyboard or other accessories, then your desk might be too high.

Remember that investing in a high-quality desk, like a gaming desk from Friska, not only enhances your setup but also supports your health. 

At Friska Desk, we offer same day despatch on a 24-hour service to mainland UK (excluding Highlands) for all orders received by 2pm. Need additional help? Get in contact with our expert team via form, phone or our live chat feature with any queries - they'll be happy to help. 

Looking for a standing desk or more accessories for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of standing desks and accessories. Our desks come with a price guarantee, next day delivery, a 10 year warranty period and call-out support.