The Best Gaming Desks You Can Buy in 2023

Gaming Desks are misunderstood at times. Users and reviewers grapple with an obvious question that one must ask when considering them as a potential purchase. Are they a gimmick or a necessity? The answer is a bit of both. Gaming Desks can simply be flashier versions of standard desks, or they can provide an immense amount of utility if you know which ones to look for.

There are a few things that make gaming desks stand out against regular office desks, including:

• Built-in RGB lighting
• Greater adjustability and customizability
• Larger surface areas
• Convenient extras like cupholders and charger racks

Players should think about whether any of these features are important to them while choosing a new gaming desk in order to narrow their search down from thousands of options.

These are the Best Gaming Desks

Related: Best Lighting for Your Gaming Room

The SEDETA L-Shaped Reversible Computer Desk is the best gaming desk right now because it suits most gamers extremely well. Although not everyone wants a large desk, having more room to spread out is usually a good thing if space allows it. The SEDETA computer desk doesn’t just leave players to their own devices though, offering a variety of organizational tools such as a peg board, a headset hook, and lots of shelving. Players even get a hanging bag, a roll-out keyboard tray, and a power outlet to help keep all of their electronics protected and powered.

Along with the impressive features of the SEDETA gaming desk, the overall design is super stylish, available in both sleek black and crisp white. Both color options include RGB lighting that can be controlled through an app or through the built-in voice control. With a mid-range price that can’t be beat, this reversible gaming desk from SEDETA is the best option for most gamers.

The SecretLab Magnus Pro is a premium gaming desk made by a company that prides itself on providing gamers with the very best ergonomic design. Although Secretlab is better known for its gaming chairs, its Magnus Pro gaming desk is just as ergonomic and can even serve as a standing desk. Players can use the capacitive touch control panel to adjust the height using the very smooth and nearly-soundless motor, which features 3 convenient preset heights.

This Secretlab gaming desk comes in 2 sizes: Magnus Pro and Magnus Pro XL. Users that require more space have the option to upgrade to the larger XL version for an extra $150, depending on what other add-ons are chosen. On top of everything, the Magnus Pro comes with a best-in-class cable management solution that is further supplemented by a dedicated power supply option that allows for concealed wires, giving the desk a clean look. Players willing to spend a bit more on their gaming desk will find that the Secretlab Magnus Pro pays off with its premium build.

The Flexispot E7 Pro Plus is not a gaming desk per se. But given its versatility and ergonomics, there is nothing stopping what is probably the best-in-class desk from becoming a force to be reckoned with as it competes directly with desks that often cost an arm and a leg more than what is arguably the best height-adjustable desk we have seen.

With a variety of desk top options that allow a different tier of customizability for the end user, the Flexispot is a viable alternative to the more RGB/gaming-centric desks. With multiple offerings for RGB strips and lighting that have emerged in the past few years such as the Philips Hue lineup, there is really no reason why a gamer can simply not trick out Flexispot E7 to be an excellent gaming desk.

Alternatively, they could skip that aspect entirely. After all, most PCs do come with significant RGB control, so the desk does not necessarily have to have controllable lighting while offering a premium finish and experience for gamers.

Beyond opting for a gaming desk because it costs below $100, one must also ensure they buy a product that offers the best value at that price point. The HLDIRECT gaming desk features a ZZ design which is a careful blend of mechanical construction and art. It can hold 40″ monitors with ease plus its frame structure has been optimized to accommodate a desk mount monitor arm for more than one monitor. It’s also a great budget-conscious choice for kid gamers.

The desk comes with a waterproof and scratch-resistant 4×4 RGB design which, when operated by a remote control, can deliver different lighting styles. For $80, buyers get multiple creature comforts like a customized mouse pad, headphone hook, and cupholder. For those wanting more desk space, there are 55″ and 63″ variants to check out.

RELATED: The Best Budget Gaming Desks You Can Buy In 2023

This glass gaming desk from EUREKA is one of the most impressive RGB gaming desks available right now. The minimalist design uses a sleek black glass top to accentuate a fully integrated RGB lighting system. The hex-patterned top can sync the lights to PC audio from games, movies, and more. With 27 music sync modes, 10 cycle modes, and a sleep mode, players can do quite a bit of customizing before sticking with a specific setup. Plus, there are holders for bags, cups, and headsets.

Though this RGB desk is much more expensive than other options, the price is backed by extremely high-quality materials in its construction. The frame is made from powder-coated carbon steel while the 6mm thick, tempered-glass desktop is both waterproof and heat-resistant. Players looking to add a bit of colorful prestige to their gaming room may find the EUREKA RGB glass gaming desk to be the perfect choice.

Beyond sporting the more advanced ARGB lighting technology, the Cooler Master GD160 is an on-the-go height adjustable desk that blends functionality with user experience. Gamers get to experience immersive ARGB lighting in either sitting or standing positions. They can also customize the lighting atmosphere using MasterPlus+, a configuration utility that allows users to control all Cooler Master products including PC cases, keyboards, and mice.

The GD160 can carry up to 220 lbs, making it an extremely durable desk. It comes with dual motors which makes it easier to alter the desk’s height. A failsafe that locks the desk’s height during power outages sweetens the pot. Built with safety in mind, the GD160 desk features an anti-collision mode. This feature prevents the desk from hitting nearby objects like a desktop computer. However, if an inevitable collision occurs, the desk will ascend to avoid additional damage. A rear aluminum tray serves as a great spot for storing one’s cables and adapters, making the battlestation look organized.

The Lian Li DK-05 FX is a testament to the celebrated casemaker’s commitment to building cases that cater to every consumer out there. It happens to be, to date, its most premium offering. It does come in two options: single or dual system offerings depending on the user’s needs.

With switchable glass panels on top of what is essentially one or two full-blown PCs, the customization possibilities are truly endless here. One can build a liquid-cooled system thanks to the immense amount of space in play and even control the entire PC with power, fan, and RGB controls that are built into the desk. With a removable motherboard and PSU and radiator trays, you can truly build a system/desk of your own choosing even if the end goal is a complete custom water loop or simply an air-cooled performance-centric behemoth.

All in, the Lian Li DK-05 FX in both iterations will turn heads given its unique solution to the problem of getting the right gaming desk for your PC: Making it one. It does however happen to be quite pricey given what it does offer. First-time PC builders might want to get assistance before attempting a build inside the Lian Li case too, despite its modular approach, especially given that it caters to higher-end and more complex builds by default.

The FEZIBO Triple Motor L-Shaped Electric Standing Desk is the perfect L-shaped gaming desk for both those wanting to get started with an L-shaped desk and those already experienced with them. Why? Because the FEZIBO L-shaped gaming desk has loads of versatility and personalized optimizations available. From construction, you can opt for the L’s “trunk” to be on the right side or the left side of the finished table. Maybe you think you want more space on the right side, but it turns out the left side is ideal for you. That’s okay with the FEZIBO.

Related: Most Customizable Keyboards

FEZIBO also does not skimp on customization options. The desk is made of engineered wood and steel but comes in “colors” including black, black walnut, light rustic brown, rustic brown, and white upon ordering. The black is the most “gamery” while the black walnut has an elegant look and the white gives a very modern finish. Customize your user experience, as well, via height adjustment options that can be remembered by the desk’s computer control panel. Set the best standing height, lock it in, and return to that height at any time with the push of a button, zero hassle. In fact, the whole experience is relatively hassle-free, excluding parts of the construction; some complain the bored-in screw holes are a bit too tight. Granted, for this sort of thing, too tight is always better than too loose and provides for better longevity.

How to choose a good gaming desk

In many ways, choosing a good gaming desk is like choosing any quality computing desk. Users of a lot of desks likely already have a good idea of what they want to bring into their gaming setups. And you can use a normal desk as your gaming desk (seriously, there’s no law against it!), but there are a few things that matter more when purchasing a gamer desk as opposed to a worker desk. These come in the form of the desk’s materials, customization options, surface size and shape, and what we might vaguely refer to as “gamer features.”

The SEDETA L Shaped Reversible Computer Desk is our top choice because it hits all of these marks right on target. It’s built with durable engineered wood and metal, offers a spacious surface along with lots of extra storage, features custom options such as the peg board, and simply looks cool!

Material

The right materials can make a world of difference with desks, but it’s important to know what each option has to offer. First and foremost, a solid metal frame is a must-have on any desk that isn’t a budget purchase. Even in that case, it’s usually best to pay a bit more for a metal frame.

Metal frames increase the weight capacity and prevent unnecessary jiggling, keeping even your budget monitor still and pleasant to look at. Be honest with yourself. Do you get emotional when you game? Especially as we play games that are designed to frustrate the player, there can be a tendency to literally push back at the desk, keyboard, mouse, or whatever. Metal frames take damage better and are more resistant to long-term usage.

So if metal is so strong, it should make for a great desktop too, right? Not necessarily. While there are certainly some benefits to having a metal desk, the reality is that these desks can be extremely expensive and offer few improvements over solid wood. Not that solid wood is cheap, but it’s an excellent option for players looking for greatly increased durability at only a slightly higher cost. Manufactured and engineered wood are the most common options, as these are both strong and affordable.

What makes the difference in quality between this common desktop material is the finish. Laminated and textured tops tend to be more resistant to scratches, scuffs, and even water damage. However, the amount and quality of the laminate tend to increase with price.

Customizability

Everyone loves to rearrange their room, revamp their space, or move into a new area, but what happens to expensive gaming desks then? Being able to customize a gaming desk can be pretty important, although some users won’t see this as a deciding factor.

Desks with height-adjustment options, for instance, are perfect for players who work from home or go to school virtually. Standing at a desk has been shown to have many health benefits, but who wants to stand while gaming? Of course, there are a few VR games that could be even more immersive while standing, but being able to take care of health while working sounds like a good combo.

Other customization options can make a big difference between game desks, such as RGB lighting that syncs to devices or movable hooks for accessories. Many L-shaped desks let users choose which orientation their desk uses, right, left, or even just straight (and unusually long). So, while customizability isn’t a requirement for gaming desks, even a little bit can help you put together your overall dream set.

Shape

The shape of your gaming desk matters for both functionality and safety. A gaming desk’s form factor will be very important for anybody. It can determine the desk’s overall functionality, while the desk’s corners might be a safety issue depending on the user’s family and gaming needs.

Gaming desks come in several form factors, with the typical ones being described as follows:

• The standard rectangle form factor is likely what you are most used to and needs no introduction.
• The concave rectangle form factor has a “dip” on the user-facing side of the desk. This allows a gamer to get “inside” the normal desk area. This desk style is typically better for immersion but may take some getting used to with the mouse-using arm’s positioning.
• L-shaped desks are like standard rectangle desks but with a short side desk “attached” to create an L-shape. They provide strategic opportunities to display tertiary monitors, hold mouse-side notepads, and more.

No matter the form factor, it is important to decide if sharp corners are acceptable for your environment. While many gamers like the look of sharp corners, if they come at eye height to siblings and children — who might run into them while excited — going with rounded corners is better. Also, consider if the room where the gaming desk is to be used will also be the home of a lot of virtual reality gaming or Wii Sports playing. Any flinging of the arms or legs could result in a wound if someone hits a sharp corner.

Gamer features

There’s one undeniable factor that separates the best gaming desks from the best desks. So-called “gaming features” tend to be features that fit best in a non-professional environment, like a gaming room or a bedroom. Extras like RGB lighting, dynamic frames, and patterned or themed tops tend to scream “gamer desk”.

Gamer desks add to specific aesthetics and can enhance video game-themed gaming rooms with colorful finishes or unique materials such as carbon steel. Gaming desks also often add hooks for bags or headsets and sometimes include cupholders to keep soda and other drinks far from any electronics.

Of course, even non-strictly gaming desks can have a piece of the gaming magic, too! That’s why reviews and recommendations from gamers, for gamers, tend to work best. Each product selected is made with gaming in mind. Even a budget gaming desk that is truly gamer-friendly can be considered a better choice than a standard office desk, depending on which gamer features it offers.

RELATED: The Best Gaming Chairs

FAQ

Q: What does a gaming desk cost?

A gaming desk can cost anywhere from sub-$100 to as much as $3000 in some cases depending on brand value, material used and customization options in play

Q: Does a gaming desk have RGB?

Not all gaming desks have RGB but most do given that it is at times, a sought-after feature for gaming-themed desks.

Q: Are gaming desks height adjustable?

Yes, Gaming Desks can be height adjustable. Given the price point these trade at, it normally is a feature for higher-end versions of gaming desks.

Q: What materials are used to make gaming desks?

Gaming desks generally tend to have Steel or Aluminum as core metals with wood, carbon fiber and/or tempered glass as part of the desk top.