36-Inch Desk: Ideal Picks for Compact Workspaces

When it comes to choosing a compact yet functional workspace, a 36-inch desk strikes the perfect balance between minimalism and utility. In this review, we’ll cover the top 36-inch desks, categorized by length and width, and delve into their pros and cons. Whether you're searching for a 36-inch computer desk, 36-inch standing desk, or a 36-inch gaming desk, we've got you covered with the best options.

Top 36-Inch Desks Based on Length

If you're in the market for a small desk with enough room for work or gaming essentials, a 36-inch desk is an excellent choice. Our review highlights top picks like the SmartDesk 2 Expanse and VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk, perfect for users looking for functional, space-saving solutions. Whether you're after a 36-inch standing desk or a sleek 36-inch wide desk, we’ve rounded up the best options for every setup.

1. SmartDesk 2 Expanse

SmartDesk 2 Expanse

3432 reviews

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Dimensions: 70.5”L x 30”W x 1”H

The SmartDesk 2 Expanse stands out for its generous surface size and premium build quality. With a length of 70.5 inches and a depth of 30 inches, this desk offers ample room for multi-monitor setups and workstations, making it ideal for programmers, gamers, or home office workers looking for extra space. The height adjustability of this desk makes it versatile for sit-stand use, and it operates smoothly with dual motors.

What sets the Desk Expanse apart is its sturdy construction, featuring a warp-proof MDF wood top and a sleek modern design. Despite its large size, the desk's powerful dual motors allow for quick transitions between sitting and standing, making it easy to adjust to your preferred height. With programmable settings, it can memorize your height preferences, providing a hassle-free, ergonomic experience. This stadning desk is perfect for users who need a combination of space and functionality without sacrificing aesthetics.

2. VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk (71" x 36")

VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk

194 reviews

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Dimensions: 71”L x 36”W

The VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk offers a massive 71-inch length and 36-inch depth, perfect for users who need extra workspace for multi-monitor setups or a wide array of gaming equipment. The large surface provides plenty of room for your computer, work essentials, and even decorative items. What sets this desk apart is its dual motor system, which allows for smooth height adjustments between 24.5 and 50.3 inches.

This desk is built for those who prefer a clean, spacious surface. Its strong steel frame supports up to 220 pounds, ensuring stability even with heavy equipment. Additionally, the desk comes with a user-friendly push-button controller that allows you to save up to three custom height presets, offering seamless transitions throughout your workday. Whether you're gaming, working, or multitasking, this desk provides the perfect balance of functionality and design.

Top 36-Inch Desks Based on Width

1. Branch Duo Standing Desk (36-Inch)

Branch Duo Standing Desk 36 Inches

2 reviews

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Dimensions: 36”W

The Branch Duo Standing Desk is a compact yet highly functional standing desk, perfect for small spaces or minimalist desk setups. With a width of 36 inches, it fits effortlessly into home offices or compact workspaces. Despite its smaller size, this desk offers impressive features like an OLED control panel with 20-inch height adjustability, two programmable presets, and collision detection for added safety.

What makes the Branch Duo stand out is its timeless design and smooth transitions between sitting and standing positions. It is built with a frameless design, giving it a sleek, modern appearance, and it offers a range of color options to suit any décor. Whether you’re looking to create a more ergonomic home office setup or maximize space efficiency, this small standing desk combines style, functionality, and comfort in a compact package.

2. Desky Dual Mini Rubberwood Sit Stand Desk

Desky Dual Mini Rubberwood Sit Stand Desk

12 reviews

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Dimensions: 43.3”L x 23.6”W

The Desky Dual Mini Rubberwood Sit Stand Desk combines style and power in a smaller form factor. With a length of 43.3 inches and a width of 23.6 inches, this desk offers enough surface area for a dual-monitor setup while maintaining a compact footprint. Its dual motor system ensures smooth transitions between sitting and standing positions, making it ideal for those who need an efficient sit-stand solution without taking up too much space.

What sets this desk apart is its beautiful rubberwood surface, which provides a natural aesthetic while being durable and resistant to wear. The desk can support up to 308 pounds, making it suitable for heavier setups. Additionally, its anti-collision feature ensures safety during adjustments, while the quiet motor operation makes it perfect for shared spaces or home offices.

3. JOY Worker Small Electric Standing Desk

OY worker Small Electric Standing Desk

116 reviews

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Dimensions: 35”L x 20”W

The JOY Worker Small Electric Standing Desk is a perfect option for those needing a compact, budget-friendly sit-stand desk. At 35 inches in length and 20 inches in depth, this desk is great for home offices or tight spaces. The one-piece tabletop offers a smooth, seamless surface, making it ideal for placing your computer, keyboard, and other essentials.

This desk offers height adjustability from 28.3 to 46.5 inches, with a fast transition speed of 25mm per second. It’s powered by a smooth electric motor that operates at a noise level below 50 dB, ensuring minimal disruption. With a weight capacity of 176 pounds, the JOY Worker desk is perfect for those with moderate setups, making it an excellent choice for a home office or study area.

Which Desk is the Best Pick?

If we had to choose the best overall desk, the VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk takes the lead. With a spacious 71-inch length and 36-inch depth, it offers more than enough room for multiple monitors and peripherals. The dual-motor system ensures smooth transitions from sitting to standing, and the sturdy steel frame supports up to 220 lbs, making it a versatile and powerful desk for work or gaming.

For users who need a more compact option, the Branch Duo Standing Desk is a fantastic pick. Its 36-inch width is perfect for tight spaces, and its OLED control panel allows for seamless height adjustments, making it ideal for small home offices or minimalist setups.

Pros:

• Space-Saving: A 36-inch desk is compact enough to fit in tight spaces like small apartments, dorm rooms, or home offices without taking up too much room.
• Sufficient Surface Area: Despite the smaller size, 36 inches is often enough for a monitor, laptop, keyboard, and a few desk essentials, making it a great option for casual work or gaming setups.
• Affordable: Smaller desks tend to be more budget-friendly, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a functional desk without a hefty price tag.

Cons:

• Limited Workspace: A 36-inch desk may not provide enough surface area for users who need multiple monitors or extensive work setups.
• Less Storage Space: Compact desks usually come with fewer or no storage options, which may not be ideal for users who need more organization.

Is it Worth It?

A 36-inch desk is an ideal choice for users with limited space or minimalistic needs. However, if you have a more complex setup, extending to a larger desk like the SmartDesk 2 Expanse or VIVO Electric Desk may provide more comfort and functionality.

A Guide On Computer Desk Dimensions

It is generally recommended that your small L-shaped desk is at elbow height. In other words, if your elbows are positioned 90 degrees from the floor, measure the distance from the bottom of your elbow to the floor. It is recommended that the desk be set at this height. According to this table, the average height of a standing desk for someone who is 5'11" is 44 inches, but remember that this is only a guideline and should be considered in conjunction with your body's proportions.

• Sitting workstations

It is recommended that most work surfaces and office desks are set at a standard height of 28" to 30", which is a better-seated height for individuals between 5'8" and 5'10" tall using conventional task chairs. Depending on how tall you are, you may need to adjust the height of your work surface. Generally, desks range from 29" to 30" in height from the floor to the tabletop, but some are higher.

• Standing workstations

Working surfaces meant to be used while standing should have a height adjustment range of at least 900mm and 1200mm. The desk for the bedroom should be at a height that is comfortable for everyone using the workstation. In the case of a desk that cannot be adjusted, a height of 740mm is suitable for 95% of the population.

Utilizing Existing Furniture To Optimize It And Still Benefit From It

• Problems with desks that are high

It may be necessary to raise your chair if the desk is too high and can't be adjusted. Support your feet as necessary with a footrest. Pad the edge of your large L-shaped desk, or use a wrist rest if it has a hard edge. Under your desk, don't store anything. An angle of 100 to 110 degrees should be maintained for the back of the chair. Make sure you are directly in front of the keyboard.

• Solving problems with a desk that is low

To give your desktop a permanent lift, attach a layer of wood, plastic, marble, or another material. Increase the height by stacking two or more layers on top of your desktop. You can also place a freestanding desktop on your existing small corner desk with adjustable legs. Keep your feet on the floor and your knees in line with your hips by adjusting the chair height. Maintain a straight posture and keep your hips well.

FAQs About 36-Inch Desks

Can a 36-inch desk hold multiple monitors?

Yes, many 36-inch desks can hold dual monitors, but it depends on the monitor size and the overall desk depth. Look for desks with additional depth if you need space for multiple screens.

Is a 36-inch desk suitable for gaming?

A 36-inch gaming desk can be a good fit for gamers with minimal setups. However, for multi-monitor gaming rigs or large peripherals, a bigger desk may offer more comfort.

Are 36-inch standing desks available?

Yes, desks like the Branch Duo Standing Desk and JOY Worker Electric Standing Desk offer height adjustability, making them excellent standing desk options in the 36-inch range.

What materials are 36-inch desks made of?

Common materials include MDF wood, rubberwood, and particle board for the tabletop, with steel frames for durability and stability.

Do 36-inch desks come with storage?

Some desks may offer small desk drawers or cable management features, but many compact desks focus on providing a simple, clutter-free surface without built-in storage.

Conclusion

A 36-inch desk is a smart choice for those working with limited space or who prefer a minimalist workspace. Desks like the VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk offer ample space for multi-monitor setups, while options like the Branch Duo Standing Desk provide great ergonomic benefits in a compact design. Whether you need a standing desk, a computer desk, or a gaming desk, a 36-inch desk offers versatility and value.

Ultimately, if you need more surface area or additional features, upgrading to a larger desk could enhance your workspace's comfort and productivity, but for many, the 36-inch size hits the sweet spot between form and function.