8 Best Desks for Small Apartments: Compact and Functional Solutions

Small apartments can be challenging to furnish, especially when it comes to finding the right furniture pieces that fit the space without compromising functionality. One of the most important furniture pieces that can make a difference in a small apartment is a desk. A desk can serve as a workspace, a storage solution, or even a decorative element. However, finding the right desk for a small apartment can be tricky, as it needs to be compact yet functional.

When looking for the best desks for small apartments, there are a few critical things to consider. First and foremost, the desk should be compact and space-saving without compromising on functionality. It should offer enough surface area for working, writing, or using a laptop, as well as storage options for books, papers, or office supplies. Additionally, it should be easy to assemble, move around, and store if needed.

We spent several hours researching and testing various desks to identify the ones that offer the best balance of form and function for small apartments. Our top picks include desks made of durable materials, such as wood or metal, that are designed to fit in tight spaces without sacrificing practicality. Each of our recommended desks has its unique features and benefits, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and style.

Whether you’re a student, a freelancer, or someone who needs a workspace at home, our guide to the best desks for small apartments will help you find the perfect fit for your space and budget. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks and see what makes them stand out.

Top 3 Best Desks for Small Apartments

Giantex Writing Desk with 4 Drawers

Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk

Tangkula White Folding Desk with 3 Drawers

When it comes to small apartments, finding the right furniture can be a challenge. Desks, in particular, can be a struggle to fit into tight spaces without sacrificing functionality or style. But fear not, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best desks for small apartments. Our picks are not only space-saving but also practical and aesthetically pleasing. Check out our top choices below.

Giantex Writing Desk with 4 Drawers

Giantex Writing Desk with 4 Drawers

If you’re looking for a writing desk that is both functional and stylish, the Giantex Writing Desk with 4 Drawers is a great option for small apartments.

Pros
  • The desk has 4 drawers, 2 big drawers, and a hutch with 2 removable drawers, and 3 storage rooms for plenty of storage space.
  • The removable tabletop with a 2-tier design allows for versatile usage and a spacious working area.
  • The desk is easy to assemble and clean, with a smooth white surface that can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
Cons
  • The drawers may scrape when opening and closing.
  • The desk is a bit expensive for a hutch desk that doesn’t have a way to semi-attach the hutch and no rolling tracks for the drawers.
  • The legs may be a bit awkward to put on because of the drawer braces.

We recently purchased this desk for our small apartment and have been impressed with its functionality and style. The four drawers provide ample storage space for all of our office supplies and the removable tabletop allows for versatile usage depending on our needs. Assembling the desk was easy, with detailed instructions and all necessary hardware included.

One drawback we’ve noticed is that the drawers can scrape when opening and closing, but this is a minor issue. Additionally, the price point may be a bit high for a hutch desk that doesn’t have a way to semi-attach the hutch and no rolling tracks for the drawers. Finally, the legs may be a bit awkward to put on because of the drawer braces, but it is still doable.

Overall, we highly recommend the Giantex Writing Desk with 4 Drawers for anyone looking for a functional and stylish writing desk for their small apartment.

Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk

Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk

If you’re looking for a modern and space-saving computer desk that is perfect for small apartments, the Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk is worth considering.

Pros
  • The desk has a sleek and modern design that looks great in any small space.
  • It is easy to assemble and comes with clear instructions.
  • The desk is sturdy and made of high-quality materials.
Cons
  • The desk is quite small, so it may not be suitable for those who need a lot of desk space.
  • Some users have reported that the desk wobbles slightly on uneven surfaces.
  • The desk may not be suitable for those who need a lot of storage space.

We recently purchased the Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk for our small apartment, and we have been very happy with it. The desk was easy to assemble and took us less than an hour to put together. The desk is very sturdy and feels like it is made of high-quality materials.

One of the things we love about this desk is its sleek and modern design. The black laminate shelves and contrasting metal frame look great in our small apartment, and the desk doesn’t take up too much space. We also appreciate the under-desk storage shelf and raised monitor platform, which frees up desk space and makes it easier to work.

However, it’s worth noting that the desk is quite small, so it may not be suitable for those who need a lot of desk space. Additionally, some users have reported that the desk wobbles slightly on uneven surfaces, although we haven’t had any issues with this ourselves. Finally, the desk may not be suitable for those who need a lot of storage space, as it only has two shelves.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Flash Furniture Clifton Black Computer Desk to anyone looking for a modern and space-saving computer desk for their small apartment.

Tangkula White Folding Desk with 3 Drawers

Tangkula White Folding Desk with 3 Drawers

If you’re looking for a space-saving and versatile desk for your small apartment, the Tangkula White Folding Desk with 3 Drawers is a great option.

Pros
  • The desk is made of high-quality materials that are waterproof, easy to clean, and scratch-resistant. The steel tube frame ensures stability, making it suitable for daily use.
  • The unique foldable design of the desk allows you to adjust its size to fit your needs and save space. You can fold it up to become a storage cabinet or a small side table.
  • The desk comes with three drawers of different heights, providing sufficient storage space for your frequently used essentials. The lockable wheels make it easy to move the desk around and keep it in place when you need to work.
Cons
  • The wheels are a bit flimsy and don’t roll in the correct direction in unison.
  • The assembly instructions are only in picture form, which can make it difficult to put together.
  • The materials used for the desk are cheap and not of the best quality.

We found that the Tangkula White Folding Desk with 3 Drawers is a functional and convenient desk that can fit most decorating styles. It’s suitable for various scenes, including bedrooms, living rooms, studies, and offices. Despite some minor drawbacks, we recommend this desk for anyone looking for a space-saving and versatile option for their small apartment.

Tangkula Folding Computer Desk

Tangkula Folding Computer Desk

If you’re looking for a versatile computer desk that saves space, the Tangkula Folding Computer Desk is a great option. Here’s what we think about it:

Pros
  • The foldable design makes it easy to store in small apartments or dorm rooms.
  • The desk features six wheels, three of which are lockable, making it easy to move around.
  • The desk is made with a sturdy steel frame and a high-quality MDF surface that is scratch and water-resistant.
Cons
  • The desk may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
  • The drawers are not as deep as some users may prefer.
  • The desk may be difficult to assemble for some users.

Overall, we think the Tangkula Folding Computer Desk is a good option for those in small apartments or dorm rooms who need a versatile and space-saving desk. The foldable design and wheels make it easy to move and store, and the sturdy frame and scratch-resistant surface ensure it will last for a while. However, the desk may not be as durable as some other options, and the drawers may not be deep enough for some users.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and space-saving desk, the Tangkula Folding Computer Desk is worth considering.

Tangkula White Corner Desk with Hutch

Tangkula White Corner Desk with Hutch

We highly recommend the Tangkula White Corner Desk with Hutch for anyone looking for a space-saving solution for their small apartment. This desk is perfect for those who need a compact workspace that can still accommodate their daily needs.

Pros
  • The 90-degree triangle corner design allows the desk to fit nicely in a corner, maximizing space utilization in your room.
  • The attached storage hutch and shelf provide ample space for storing daily supplies and displaying decorative items.
  • The spacious triangle desktop provides enough space for your working needs and keeps you away from a messy environment.
Cons
  • The top part of the desk is not sturdy and is not connected, so be mindful of where you put it and what you place on it.
  • The pre-drilled holes were too big for the screws or dowels, making assembly difficult for some users.
  • Some users found the desk to be smaller than they expected.

This desk is made of durable MDF and engineered wood, ensuring a sturdy and durable structure for long service life. Additionally, solid natural wood legs are not easy to wobble and take the stability of the corner desk to a higher level. The hutch is mounted on the wall to prevent the risk of collapsing. The desk’s concise and modern style perfectly blends with various room styles and also adds a touch of elegant charm to your house. It can be used as a computer desk, writing desk, or vanity table in your home office.

In conclusion, the Tangkula White Corner Desk with Hutch is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a space-saving desk that provides ample storage and workspace. Its sturdy construction and modern design make it a great addition to any small apartment.

GreenForest Folding Desk

GreenForest Folding Desk

If you’re looking for a desk that is easy to move around and store, the GreenForest Folding Desk is a great option.

Pros
  • No assembly is required, it ready to use straight out of the box
  • Foldable and portable, easy to store and move around
  • The extra top shelf provides more space for monitors or other items
Cons
  • It may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • Limited color options
  • It may not be suitable for taller individuals due to its height

We’ve been using the GreenForest Folding Desk for a few weeks now and it has been a great addition to our small apartment. The desk comes fully assembled, which is a huge plus for those who don’t want to spend time putting furniture together. It is also very easy to fold and store, making it ideal for small spaces.

One thing we really like about this desk is the extra top shelf. It provides more space for monitors or other items, which is especially useful if you have a dual-monitor setup. The desk is also very sturdy and well-made, despite its lightweight design.

However, it’s important to note that this desk may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, as it is not designed to hold a lot of weight. Additionally, the desk only comes in one color (espresso), which may not match everyone’s decor. Lastly, taller individuals may find the desk to be too short, as it sits at the height of 27.5 inches from the floor to the main desktop.

Overall, we highly recommend the GreenForest Folding Desk for those who need a compact and portable desk for their small apartment or home office. It’s a great value for the price and offers a lot of flexibility in terms of storage and portability.

Tangkula Small Computer Desk

Tangkula Small Computer Desk

We highly recommend the Tangkula Small Computer Desk for anyone looking for a compact and multifunctional desk for their small apartment or home office.

Pros
  • The 2 tier design provides ample workspace for working, studying, writing, gaming, and other activities, making everything within reach.
  • Thanks to its multipurpose design, this premium desk is not only used as a computer desk but also serves as a writing study table and makeup vanity console desk that is suitable for different people.
  • Made of heavy-duty iron frame with powder coated, this multifunctional computer desk is extremely stable to hold up to 110 lbs which allows you to place various items with ease.
Cons
  • The riser is too high for some users, making it uncomfortable to use.
  • The riser is too shallow for an iMac base, which may cause instability.
  • The edges may look worn after prolonged use.

The Tangkula Small Computer Desk is a sturdy and space-saving desk that is perfect for small apartments, dorms, and other places. The combination of wood and iron makes it a timeless addition to your home décor. The desk is easy to assemble with detailed and easy-to-understand instructions, saving you precious time. The smooth surface provides a cozy use experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a compact and multifunctional desk that is easy to assemble and provides ample workspace, the Tangkula Small Computer Desk is an excellent choice.

Novogratz Athena Computer Desk with Storage

Novogratz Athena Computer Desk with Storage

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional desk for your small apartment, the Novogratz Athena Computer Desk with Storage is a great option.

Pros
  • The faux white marble finish and gold powder-coated metal hairpin legs give the desk a trendy Mid-Century Modern look.
  • The spacious desktop and two open cubbies provide ample storage space for your office supplies and keep your workspace clutter-free.
  • The desk is easy to clean and comes with wire management features, including a desktop wire grommet and an open back cubby to hold a power strip.
Cons
  • The desk’s desktop can only support up to 80 lbs, which may not be enough for some users.
  • The desk requires assembly, which may take some time and effort.
  • The desk’s white marble finish may show scratches or wear over time.

We’ve been using the Novogratz Athena Computer Desk with Storage for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its design and functionality. The desk’s Mid-Century Modern style fits well with our apartment’s decor, and the faux white marble finish looks elegant and sophisticated. The desk’s gold powder-coated metal hairpin legs add a nice touch of retro flair to the overall design.

The desk’s desktop is spacious enough to accommodate our laptop, monitor, and other office supplies. The two open cubbies are perfect for storing notebooks, papers, and writing utensils, while the long open cubby in the back of the desk is a great hiding spot for a power strip. The desk’s wire grommet keeps our cords organized and tangle-free, which is a nice touch.

The desk was easy to assemble, although it did take some time and effort. The desk’s white marble finish may show scratches or wear over time, so it’s important to handle it with care. Overall, we’re happy with our purchase and would recommend the Novogratz Athena Computer Desk with Storage to anyone looking for a stylish and functional desk for their small apartment.

Buying Guide

When choosing a desk for a small apartment, there are several factors to consider. We understand that every space is unique, and it is essential to find a product that meets your specific needs. In this buying guide, we will discuss the features to look for when selecting the best desk for your small apartment.

Size

The size of the desk is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a desk for a small apartment. A compact desk that fits comfortably in your space is ideal. It is essential to measure the area where you intend to place the desk to ensure it fits. Additionally, consider the height of the desk, as it should be comfortable for you to work on.

Storage

Storage is an important feature to consider when purchasing a desk for a small apartment. A desk with built-in storage such as shelves, drawers, or cabinets can help you keep your workspace organized. It is essential to consider the amount of storage you need and the type of items you will be storing.

Style

The style of the desk is another factor to consider when purchasing a desk for a small apartment. A desk that complements your existing decor can enhance the overall look of your space. Consider the materials, color, and design of the desk, and ensure it matches your personal style.

Durability

Durability is an important factor to consider when purchasing a desk for a small apartment. A desk made of high-quality materials such as solid wood or metal can withstand daily wear and tear. Additionally, a desk with a warranty can provide peace of mind and ensure you are making a wise investment.

In conclusion, when purchasing a desk for a small apartment, it is essential to consider the size, storage, style, and durability of the product. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a desk that meets your specific needs and enhances your workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some space-saving desk options for small apartments?

If you’re tight on space in your apartment, there are several space-saving desk options that you can consider. Wall-mounted desks, foldable desks, and corner desks are great options that can help you save space. Wall-mounted desks can be attached to the wall and can be folded away when not in use, while foldable desks can be easily stored away in a closet or under the bed. Corner desks can be tucked away in a corner and can provide ample workspace without taking up too much floor space.

What are the best types of desks for small bedrooms?

When it comes to small bedrooms, it’s important to choose a desk that doesn’t take up too much space. A compact writing desk or a floating desk can be great options for small bedrooms. Writing desks are typically smaller in size and can fit in tight spaces, while floating desks can be attached to the wall and can be folded away when not in use.

What are some features to look for in a small desk for a home office?

When choosing a small desk for your home office, it’s important to look for a desk that can accommodate your work needs. Look for a desk with ample workspace, storage options, and a comfortable chair. A desk with built-in storage, such as drawers or shelves, can help you keep your workspace organized and clutter-free.

How can I maximize my workspace with a small desk?

To maximize your workspace with a small desk, you can consider using desk accessories such as a monitor stand, a keyboard tray, or a desk lamp. These accessories can help you free up space on your desk and make it easier to work efficiently. Additionally, you can use wall shelves or a bookcase to store items that would otherwise take up space on your desk.

What are some convertible desk options for small living rooms?

Convertible desks can be a great option for small living rooms as they can serve multiple purposes. A convertible desk can be transformed into a dining table or a console table when not in use, saving you valuable space. Wall-mounted desks or foldable desks can also be great options for small living rooms.

What are the benefits of an L-shaped desk for small spaces?

An L-shaped desk can be a great option for small spaces as it can provide ample workspace without taking up too much floor space. L-shaped desks can be placed in a corner, freeing up space in the middle of the room. Additionally, L-shaped desks can provide separate workspaces for different tasks, allowing you to be more productive.

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