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What Can I Buy Instead of a Work Desk for a Home?

Autonomous|May 14, 2023

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Putting together an office is often challenging, especially if you haven’t found the ideal work desk for a home. Sometimes, your budget may come between you and the furniture of your dreams, and in other cases, you might just don’t know what you want.

In this article, you’ll find some low-budget options for compact spaces and get a list of the most common desk models people get for their homes.

Common Types of Work Desks for a Home Office

There are many home work desks to choose from, but the most popular among customers are the models that have earned people’s hearts. The following list includes some of them, so take a look at each alternative and thoroughly examine their features:

Standing Desk

There are several common types of work desks for home offices, including standing desks, which allow you to work while standing up. Standing desks can come in different styles such as manual, electric, or convertible, and can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate different preferences.

They are a great option for those who want to improve their posture and reduce the negative effects of sitting for extended periods. Some recommendations are:

SmartDesk 2 (Standard)

Some people look for the best stand-up desk while others want an ergonomic chair. Regardless of your specific circumstances, Autonomous has the best options for you - the furniture you’ll find in the store is unique, and the SmartDesk 2 (Standard) is one of the brand’s hallmark pieces!

When buying smart desks for a home office, you must make sure that they’re functional but offer the specific tech characteristics you’re looking for.

In the case of Autonomous’ SmartDesk 2 (Standard), you can’t go wrong - it’s available in different colors, has numerous programmable options, has an electric dual motor, and comes with a five-year warranty!

SmartDesk 2 (Standard)

Top dimension	Small Top: 43"L x 24"W x 1"H Classic Top: 53"L x 29"W x 1"H XL Top: 70.5"L x 30"W x 1"H
Frame dimension	27.5"W x 40" - 73"L
Height range	With top: 29.4" - 48" Without top: 28.4" - 47"
Materials	Top: Warp-proof, MDF wood, natural Bamboo Frame: SPCC steel
Colors	Top: White, Black, Walnut, White Oak, Bamboo Frame: White, Black, Grey
Weight capacity	265 lbs
Warranty	5 years for frame 1 year for top

Pros	Cons
Sturdy piece of furniture	Expensive
Modern design
Adjustable features
Different colors available

SmartDesk 2

Another fantastic work desk for a home that Autonomous offers is the SmartDesk 2, which is just as good as the previously mentioned piece of furniture.

It has a natural, beautiful, and classic finish. Furthermore, with four programmable settings, a quiet dual motor, and a load capacity of 310 lbs, you’ll be able to organize all your supplies and devices and customize the table’s height without a hassle.

The SmartDesk 2 is an automatic standing desk, which means you’re able to program it to fit your needs. Stand up when you need to stretch your legs and sit back down if you want to go back to your chair.

It’s one of the sturdiest alternatives you’ll find out there, and it has a seven-year warranty for its frame. Lastly, even though you’ll have to assemble it yourself, it won’t take more than half an hour!

SmartDesk 2

Top dimension	Small Top: 43"L x 24"W x 1"H Classic Top: 53"L x 29"W x 1"H XL Top: 70.5"L x 30"W x 1"H
Frame dimension	27.5"W x 40" - 73"L
Height range	With top: 29.4" - 48" Without top: 28.4" - 47"
Materials	Top: Warp-proof, MDF wood, natural Bamboo Frame: SPCC steel
Colors	Top: White, Black, Walnut, White Oak, Bamboo Frame: White, Black, Grey
Weight capacity	265 lbs
Warranty	5 years for frame 1 year for top

Pros	Cons
Beautiful and sturdy	May be too big for your space
Spacious	Expensive
Customizable options
Sit-stand technology
Quiet motor

Executive Desks

These are often larger, more luxurious desks that provide ample workspace and storage. They are typically made of high-quality materials like wood and have a classic, professional design.

EUREKA ERGONOMIC 63” Standing Executive Desk: Two Drawers

An office table for a home must bring together everything else in your workspace. In other words, it’ll be the center of your productivity hub.

EUREKA’s option is one of the best ones to get if you want a versatile and elegant office desk for a home. Its design is unique because it’s handmade, so adding it to your workstation means you’ll have an uncommonly beautiful piece of furniture.

Adjusting the sit-stand options in some work desk models might be confusing or challenging, but you can forget about that if you get EUREKA’s alternative. Its controls are straightforward and quick to use, so you’ll lose no time when customizing the features to fit your needs.

One of the best aspects of EUREKA’s desk is that it combines the elegance of a classic design with the functionality of modern features. Therefore, it has USB ports, power outlets, and a wireless charger, which allows you to guarantee your devices won’t run out of battery.

EUREKA’s work desk for a home also has a 47” monitor stand, so it’s the ideal option if you need to use two screens while working.

Lastly, for people who love the brand but prefer a more modern alternative, they should check out EUREKA’s desk with a pegboard.

EUREKA ERGONOMIC 63-inch Standing Executive Desk: 2 Drawers

Top Color	MDF Walnut
Base Material	Stainless Steel
Gaming Configuration	Multi-levelled; Mousepad surface
Drawers Included	Roller Glides; Metal Slide; Side-Mounted Glides
Weight Capacity	265 lbs
Durability	Water Resistant; Scratch Resistant

Pros	Cons
Elegant design	Lengthy assembly
Walnut frame and top	Expensive
Sturdy frame
Plenty of storage space
Spacious enough for two screens

Secretary Desk

A secretary desk is a type of desk that typically has a hinged desktop surface that folds down to create a flat writing surface. The desk usually has several small drawers, shelves, and cubby holes built into the top portion, which can be closed off by a door or a roll-top.

This style of desk was originally designed for use in the home or office of a secretary or other administrative professional, but it has since become a popular choice for those looking for a compact workspace with plenty of storage options.

Secretary desks are available in a variety of styles and materials, from traditional wooden designs to modern, minimalist versions made from metal or glass. They are a good choice for those who need a dedicated workspace but don't have a lot of room to spare.

Nexera Secretary Desk

One of many people’s favorite alternatives is Nexera’s secretary desk because it’ll allow you to give your surroundings a fun look while also giving you some space to keep your work supplies tidy.

The secretary desk by Nexera is a versatile piece of furniture because you can use it as a table to get some to-dos off your list or turn it into a bar if you have enough space.

It has a beautiful and modern drop-down door that can be the ideal work surface once you open it. If you want to hide away your laptop, tablet, accessories, and cables, it could be the ideal piece of furniture to add to your surroundings.

Even though it’s not a ladder desk, it’s still one of the most versatile models you’ll find out there because it gives you no less than three shelves that you can adjust and use to store your belongings.

Assembling is a quick and straightforward process, and since MDF is its primary material, it’ll last a long time before you start seeing signs of wear and tear.

Nexera Secretary Desk

Desk dimensions	35.75”W x 8.25”D x 54”H x 94 lbs
Number of shelves	3
Material	CARB II/FSC Certified particle board, MDF and solid metal
Color	Nutmeg and Charcoal Grey, Black, White, Walnut
Warranty	1 year

Pros	Cons
Versatile	The top is not too spacious
Beautiful design
Modern layout

L-shaped Desks

These desks have an L-shaped configuration, with one long side and one short side. They provide more workspace and can be used to separate different tasks or activities. They often have built-in storage options as well.

SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

Getting an L-shaped standing desk is one of the best options you can go for if you don’t have enough space and want to make the most out of the available one.

Like all other Autonomous cool desk alternatives, the SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped is a sturdy, customizable, beautiful, and modern piece of furniture.

The SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped has modular segments, so you can arrange them to guarantee they perfectly fit your space. Since it has a 400 lbs weight capacity, it’s sturdy enough for you to be able to put multiple devices and monitors if you want. It’ll hold everything perfectly.

Many people use it as an L-shaped gaming desk, but you can turn it into the center of your office space and take advantage of all its features to keep your supplies organized. It includes, for example, a free cable tray to ensure your surroundings are always tidy.

SmartDesk 2 L-Shaped

Top dimension	Full: 77”L x 64”W x 1”H Large Top: 77”L x 29”W x 1”H Small Top: 29”L x 35”W x 1”H
Frame dimension	27.5”W x 42” - 71”L
Height range	With top: 29.4" - 48" Without top: 28.4" - 47"
Materials	Top: Warp-proof MDF wood Frame: SPCC steel
Colors	Top: White, Black Frame: White, Black
Weight capacity	400 lbs
Warranty	5 years for frame 1 year for top

Pros	Cons
Sturdy build	Might be too spacious
Solid steel frame
Adjustable height
Includes a free cable tray

EUREKA 60” L-shaped Standing Desk: Programmable Keypad, Left-handed

Numerous clients are in love with their EUREKA desks. The L-shaped model is a high-quality item with customizable features - its design allows you to move throughout the day and avoid the pitfalls of staying in a specific position for multiple hours.

With four memory presets and electric height adjustment features, making sure that this work desk for a home fits your needs will be a piece of cake.

Furthermore, all the materials it features are environmentally-friendly, safe, and reliable. If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t harm the planet, this might be it!

Lastly, the desk surface is so spacious that it’s ideal for holding three monitors. Therefore, it’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a wide table where you can put multiple screens.

EUREKA ERGONOMIC L-shaped Standing Desk

Dimension	61.02”L x 43.7”W x 29.53” - 48.03”H
Height adjustment	29.9” - 48.4”
Materials	P2PB/ABS/Carbon Steel
Colors	Carbon Fiber Black
Weight capacity	220 lbs
Warranty	5 years

Pros	Cons
Spacious	May be too big
Ideal for left-handed people	Inconvenient for compact spaces
Eco-friendly materials
Includes a large mouse pad

Folding Desks

A folding desk is a type of desk that can be easily collapsed or folded up for storage when not in use. These desks are typically lightweight and portable, making them a great option for those who need a workspace that can be easily moved or stored away.

They are available in a variety of styles and materials, from simple wooden designs to more modern versions made from metal or plastic. Some folding desks come with built-in storage options, such as shelves or drawers, while others simply provide a flat surface for working.

They are a good choice for those who need a temporary or occasional workspace, such as students or those who work from home part-time. However, they may not be the best option for those who need a more permanent or heavy-duty workspace.

Skyline Decor Natural Home Office Folding Computer Desk

The folding computer work desk for a home by Skyline Decor is one of the most convenient options on the market, particularly if you don’t have much space available.

Although finding the ideal space-saving desk might be a challenge, Autonomous and Skyline Decor make it easier for you.

The desk’s primary materials are sturdy wood and metal (the latter makes up its solid frame). In addition, it includes two drawers for you to get enough storage space for you to organize your office supplies while maximizing your desk’s workspace.

Even though you have to assemble it yourself, it’s a quick and straightforward process. In no time, you’ll find yourself organizing your computer and electronics. Lastly, it includes a one-month warranty in case you’re unhappy with what you get, but it’s unlikely.

Skyline Decor Folding Computer Desk

Desk dimensions	35.5"W x 18"D x 29.5"H
Material	Medium Density Fiberboard, Steel
Weight capacity	100 lbs
Color	Rustic
Warranty	1 month

Pros	Cons
Ideal for compact spaces	Might be smaller than you expect
Two drawers
Sturdy build

Modernsolid Folding Table: Height-adjustable

A height-adjustable, beautiful, and modern small work desk for a home might be what some workers need to make their office come together.

Many home office workers feel deterred by the fact that they don’t have much space available. However, you don’t need it if you get Modernsolid’s folding table.

You can adjust its height to fit your needs, and since it’s foldable, you can put it away when you’re not using it.

It can support up to 11 lbs and has a wood and aluminum frame. Therefore, it’s sturdy enough to stand the weight of any standard laptop.

At the same time, it includes a handle for you to quickly move it around if you need to. Finally, since you can rotate it 360 degrees, it’s the ideal piece of furniture if you’re looking for a customizable item that you can move around depending on your needs.

Modernsolid Folding Table

Overall dimension	21.85”L x 17.95”W x 21.26” - 27.56”H
Tabletop dimension	12.2”D x 19.29”L
Table rotation	360 degrees
Height range	21.26" - 27.56"
Materials	Wood and Aluminum Alloy
Weight capacity	11 lbs
Warranty	2 years

Pros	Cons
Beautiful, straightforward design	Not spacious
Quick assembly	Might be too wobbly for some users
Inexpensive
Customizable options
Foldable

Floating Desks

A floating desk is a type of desk that is mounted directly to the wall, without the need for legs or supports on the floor. These desks are often designed to be space-saving and can be a great option for those with limited room in their home office.

Floating desks can come in a variety of styles and sizes, ranging from small shelves that serve as workspaces to larger, more elaborate designs that provide ample storage and workspace. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or composite, and can be designed to match any décor style.

One of the benefits of a floating desk is that it can be easily installed and removed, making it a great option for renters or those who frequently move. However, it is important to ensure that the desk is mounted securely to the wall to prevent any accidents or damage.

FM Furniture Brickell Floating Desk: Foldable Desk

A wall-mounted work desk for a home might be daunting for some people because they’ll have to assemble it and put it in the perfect spot.

However, FM Furniture makes the process much more enjoyable. Assembling the brand’s foldable office table for a home is so quick and straightforward that you’ll have a lot of fun.

At the same time, it’s the ideal option for people who don’t have much space because you can fold it whenever you’re not using it.

The frame has an oak finish, so it’ll give your surroundings a rustic and beautiful look. Also, you can use it to organize your essentials while you’re using the tabletop.

FM FURNITURE Brickell Floating Desk

Overall dimensions	18.1"L x 39.4"W x 20.3"H x 38 lbs
Table top dimensions	39"W x 17.5"D
Frame depth	4"W
Colors	Light Oak - White
Warranty	1 year

Pros	Cons
Foldable	Might not be sturdy enough
Quick assembly
Wide tabletop

Mobile Desks

A mobile desk, also known as a rolling or portable desk, is a type of desk that comes equipped with wheels or casters that allow it to be easily moved from one location to another. These desks are often designed to be compact and lightweight, making them a good option for those who need a temporary or occasional workspace.

Mobile desks can come in a variety of styles and sizes, ranging from small laptop carts to larger, more substantial designs that provide ample workspace and storage.

They are typically made from materials like metal or plastic, and can be designed with a variety of features, such as adjustable height or built-in storage. Some mobile desks may also come with a locking mechanism to keep them in place when needed.

Mount-It! Height-adjustable Stand-up Desk

The last item on the list is Mount-It!’s alternative, but it’s by no means a poor-quality item. On the contrary, it’s one of many people’s favorite options because of its convenient features and modern design.

Mount-It!’s work desk for a home has adjustable height and can stand up to 132 lbs in weight. It includes a 10-year warranty, so you’ll have a lot of time to contact the brand if you have any issues.

The best aspect of Mount-It!’s business office desk is that you can adjust the height of each of its shelves. Therefore, you can make sure it fits your needs and change it if you ever want something new.

Mount-It! Height Adjustable Rolling Desk

Dimension	28”W x 27.5”D
Height range	37" - 54"
Weight capacity	Total 132 lbs (33 lbs. per shelf)
Warranty	10 years

Pros	Cons
Sturdy	It’s not as beautiful as other options on the list
Highly adjustable
Modern design

Some Low-budget Alternatives for Small Spaces at Home

With the best affordable alternatives, you can turn any space in your home and make it a functional workspace. Even though you won’t have all the advantages when buying ergonomic furniture, you’ll be able to go through your to-do lists comfortably.

Many people buy lap desks, for example, when they can’t afford other types of tables. They’re a fantastic low-budget option.

A mobile laptop desk might also work, particularly for writers and people who don’t need to use their mouse a lot. It may not be that convenient for designers and editors since they’ll most likely need a lot of space to move around.

Cardboard desks have also gained fame for being so useful when you can’t afford to buy expensive alternatives. Alternatively, wall shelves might be costlier, but they’re also much more spacious - sometimes, they even have storage space for you to organize your supplies!

Whether you go for a cardboard desk, a wall shelf, or a lap table, you should remember that your health comes first.

Therefore, try to focus on the fact that these low-budget alternatives are temporary, and get ergonomic furniture as soon as you can. If you don’t, you might suffer from back, leg, shoulder, and neck tension.

Some Low-budget Alternatives for work desk for home

Final Thoughts

Whether you love floating desks or prefer L-shaped tables, there is an ideal option that fits your workstation perfectly - you just have to find it! Make sure you read through our list and get the option you consider more appropriate for your needs.

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WRITTEN BYAutonomous

We build office products to help you work smarter.

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