A lap desk allows you to work comfortably while sitting on the couch or laying in bed. They offer plenty of space to hold your laptop, and some are even large enough to hold a mouse as well. In this article, we’ll share some of our top picks for lap desks. We’ve chosen these lap desks because of their size, their design, and their overall functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large are these lap desks?
Most lap desks are at least large enough to hold a 14-inch laptop. However, there may not be much space left over for a mouse or anything else you want to sit next to your computer. Some desks are larger, and may hold laptops up to 16 or 17 inches wide.
Can I position my lap desk into different angles?
It depends on which lap desk you purchase. Some can only be used in a flat position. Others might have the versatility to be positioned into different angles that are more comfortable for viewing your screen, drawing, or typing.
Buying Guide
As you shop for a new lap desk, here are a few of the most important factors that you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Storage Pocket: Many lap desks have a storage pocket that will allow you to hold small personal items like cell phones or wallets without having to set them on the desk itself.
- Cushion: You want your lap desk to be comfortable. Many lap desks include soft pads that will conform to the shape of your legs over time. There may also be a wrist pad to keep your hands and wrists from getting too tired or uncomfortable as you type.
- Insulation: The longer you work, the better chance that your laptop will get hot. Many lap desks include ventilation to allow air to continue to circulate and keep your computer cool. They can also protect your legs from the higher temperatures as well.
- Portability: Perhaps you want to bring your lap desk along with you. Many of them have handles that make this easy to do. Some of them will even fold, or they have pieces that you can remove.
HUANUO Lap Desk
Best Overall
Fits 15.6 Inch Laptops
This desk features an anti-slip strip to keep the desk in place while you work, along with an extra storage pocket that will allow you to hold your essential items nearby. The cushion pillows provide you with extra comfort, and will conform to your lap over time for an even better fit.
If you would like to use a mouse on your lap desk, you can do so as long as your computer is 14 inches or smaller. This desk is lightweight and portable, and includes a handle so it’s easy to carry and bring along with you.
Why We Love It:
- Measures 32.5cm by 43.2cm by 8.9cm
- Brown grain platform pairs with gray foam pad for a simple and beautiful appearance
- Weighs only 1.5kg
Something to Consider:
- Might be better if wrist padding wrapped all the way around
LapGear Lap Desk
Best Sizes
Works with Larger Laptops
The cushion filling on the bottom of the desk conforms to your lap over time, and the smooth flat surface promotes better airflow so that you can stay cool while you work. The appearance is excellenta, and the designer fabric cushions complement the wood-like surface to fit nicely with your existing home or office decor
The medium desk fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, while the larger desk can hold laptops as large as 17.3 inches. You’ll have your choice of seven different colors or patterns to choose from, regardless of which size you choose.
Why We Love It:
- Can purchase individually or in a set of two, with one home lap desk and one office work desk
- Made with a phone holder to hold your mobile device horizontally or vertically
- Weighs only 2.16 pounds
- Includes a handle for easy transportation
Something to Consider:
- Fabric does not detach for washing
Honey-Can-Do Lap Desk
Most Portable
Ergonomic and Compact
The solid MDF surface is a joy to work on, while also being easy to care for and clean. It can effectively withstand the heat your laptop will begin to produce as you work for longer periods of time, and the compact size of the desk makes it an ideal choice for travel.
The pad is removable, which helps with washing and cuts down on the thickness of the desk for easier transportation. The built-in handle on the top of the desk is great for carrying this laptop stand from place to place.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in six different colors
- Measures 40.6cm deep, 58.4cm wide, and 6.4cm high
- Weighs only 3.5 pounds
Something to Consider:
- Surface is a little slippery
Mind Reader Lap Desk
Best Adjustments
Set in Eight Different Positions
This lap desk locks into whatever position is most convenient for you to view or type on your laptop. It folds flat when you’re done, so you have more options as far as how you’ll store or travel with your laptop stand. The dual-bolster pillow on the base of the stand makes it more comfortable to work with this stand in your lap, along with providing increased stability.
This lap desk works well with both tablets and laptops. You can also use it for writing, drawing, and other activities.
Why We Love It:
- Measures 11.22 inches long, 14.76 inches wide, and 2.17 inches high (when folded)
- Provides great ventilation to keep you (and your laptop) from getting too hot
- Made with high-quality plastic
- Includes non-slip ledge and handle for increased portability
Something to Consider:
- Doesn’t always feel sturdy
AboveTEK Lap Desk
Best Mouse Pad
Extends from Side of Desk
The smooth and large platform is a fantastic working surface, and your space extends even further when you utilize the included mouse pad. The mouse pad can extend from either the right or the left side of the desk, based on your preferences. It only weighs 2.2 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around.
This lap desk acts as a heat shield to protect your lap from heat while you’re working. It also provides better ventilation for your laptop so that it won’t overheat when you’re working for extended periods of time.
Why We Love It:
- Designed to be lightweight and portable
- Folds flat for convenient transportation
- Includes anti-slip surface to keep laptop (and desk) in place
Something to Consider:
- Compatible with laptops up to 15.6 inches
- Mouse may fall off if the desk is tilted too high
