When choosing a gaming desk, there are several factors that can make or break your setup. A good desk will provide ergonomic support, ample space for your gear and last long-term, which will enhance your comfort, performance and overall gaming experience. A bad desk, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable, impractical and even 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.
Here’s our take on the top qualities to look for in a gaming desk which will help you choose the right one for your space and requirements.
1. Height, Length and Width
The first thing to consider is the desk size in relation to your space.
Start by measuring the available space in your room. This includes both the length and width of the area where you plan to place the desk. This will give you a good idea of how much space you have to fit a desk, and what your minimum/maximum size limits are.
When deciding the size your desk needs to be, you should also consider how many monitors you’ll have, the size of those monitors, and the number of accessories. While a 40-50 inch desk might accommodate a single monitor with basic peripherals (keyboard, mouse, small speakers), for dual monitors, triple monitors, gaming consoles, large PCs and multiple peripherals, your desk will need to fall in the 55 to 90 inches range.
Don’t forget to consider desk depth as well. A standard 24-30” depth provides enough room for most monitors and keyboards. However, if you want to push your monitor further back or mount it on a stand, a deeper desk might work better.
The height of your desk is also important. A desk that is too high or too low is bad for your posture. The desk you choose should be one that will keep your neck, back and arms in alignment, with your elbows at a 90 degree angle.
2. Desk Type
Don’t forget to consider the type of desk, too! While rectangular desks are the standard, L-shaped desks or corner desks can help maximize space in a small room or corner.
In addition, standing desks — a desk that can be raised or lowered to a sitting or standing position — are considered better for your posture and health, but can have benefits for your gaming sessions too. Think improved focus, increased endurance and better overall performance. Standing desks are more expensive, but worth the investment if one falls within your budget.
Better yet, a standing desk designed for gaming sessions, such as the NINJA Professional Height Adjustable Gaming Desk, ticks all of the boxes. With both physical and Bluetooth dual controls, an app adjustable anti-collision sensor and dual motors for fast and quiet adjustments, it puts you in total control of your gaming experience. Better yet, The NINJA lowers to 595mm, which is ideal for most wheelchair users, and raises to 1.3 metres, making it suitable even if you’re over 2 metres tall. The NINJA also has a sculptured desktop with cable access scallops and cable tidy clips to keep your setup organised.
3. Material
A good-quality desk is an investment that should last for years, and the material you choose plays a large role in this.
There are four materials that are most often used for gaming desks: wood, MDF (medium-density fibreboard), glass and carbon. Desks made from solid wood, such as oak, walnut or pine, are the most durable. However, solid wood can be heavier and more expensive than its alternatives. MDF is engineered wood made from wood fibres, resin and max that is more cost-effective than solid wood, but has a similar aesthetic.
Glass makes a stylish gaming desk, but for obvious reasons, it isn't as durable as wood or medium-density fibreboard, making it more prone to scratches, cracks and smashes.
4. Maximum Load
The maximum load of your gaming desk refers to how much weight your desk can hold. Overloading a desk beyond its capacity can lead to instability, wobbling, or damage over time.
As you might imagine, a gaming setup with three monitors, a console and accessories would require a large maximum load than just one monitor. A standard gaming desk should support at least 100–150 pounds, while heavy-duty desks can hold upwards of 200 pounds. For multiple monitors and peripherals, however, you will want to look in the 300-pound range.
| Gaming Setup | Description | Recommended Desk Load |
| Single Monitor | Basic setup with a single monitor and standard peripherals (keyboard, mouse). | 100-150 lbs (45-68 kg) |
| Dual Monitor | Two monitors and additional peripherals, such as speakers and a small gaming console. | 150-200 lbs (68-91 kg) |
| Triple Monitor | Three monitors, large peripherals, like a gaming console, speakers, or streaming gear. | 200-300 lbs (91-136 kg) |
| Heavy-Duty | Three or more monitors, a heavy gaming PC, several peripherals (microphones, speakers, lighting equipment, etc.). | 300 lbs+ (136 kg+) |
5. Aesthetics
Your gaming desk should reflect your style and preferences. After all, it’s likely to take up a lot of space, so you shouldn’t compromise on how it looks. Do you want your gaming desk to be minimalist or maximalist? Black, white or colourful? What desktop material and colour will best compliment your space? What decorations would you like to be able to place on it?
6. Additional Features & Accessories
Some additional features and accessories can help enhance your gaming experience, as well as help you keep your desk organised.
a. Cable Management
Desks with built-in cable trays, grommets, or hidden compartments keep wires organised and prevent clutter from building up. Not only does good cable management eliminate the dreaded "cable spaghetti" effect, but it also reduces the risk of tripping or damaging your cables. Look for cable trays, spines and clips, cable slots and power strips, either as part of the desk or as an add-on.
b. Lights
RGB or LED lighting built into the desk can create a more immersive experience. These can be integrated into the desk frame or underside to provide lighting that matches your gaming mood or aesthetic. Many RGB strips are even programmable, allowing for dynamic lighting effects that syncs with in-game events or music.
Small LED lamps or accent lights can also help to illuminate specific areas, such as your keyboard or headset mount.
c. Monitor Arm
A monitor arm is an adjustable mount designed to hold your monitor or screen at the optimal height, distance and angle from your eyes. This not only provides ergonomic benefits by preventing back, neck and eye strain, but also frees up valuable desk space. Look for monitor arms with full range motion — including tilt, swivel, and rotation capabilities — and ensure that the monitor arm can support the weight and size of your monitor(s)
d. CPU Holder
A CPU holder is useful if you don't want to put your computer on the desk or on the floor. The computer is "hung" under the desk top, which keeps it free from dirt, dust and damage, and frees up more space for your other peripherals.
CPU holders are also designed to promote better airflow around your PC, which can help keep your system cool during intensive gaming sessions and increase its lifespan.
e. Drawers
Built-in under desk storage or external drawers can create extra space to store your peripherals, games, snacks, and other personal items, keeping your desk practical and clutter-free.
Choosing the right gaming desk is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience. By considering the factors discussed, such as desk size, type and aesthetics, you can find a desk that perfectly fits your gaming style and space.
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.