Using a laptop instead of a desktop computer provides portability and versatility that allows people to make any space an office. Although ‘laptop’ has the word lap in it, placing the computer directly on your lap is not a good idea. When looking at a screen, you want it raised so that your neck, shoulders and back are in a comfortable upright position. Placing a laptop directly on your lap can cause the computer or your legs to overheat (among other areas you don’t want overheating). Using a pillow as a makeshift desk also isn’t ideal as a pillow is not designed to let air flow under your computer and keep it cool. If you use a laptop often, you need a mini laptop desk.
There is a wide range of styles for laptop desks that all have great benefits. For users who prefer a physical mouse compared to the trackpad on their laptop, some mini desks include built-in mouse pads. Other desks include cupholders, phone and tablet holders. Some mini desks are adjustable for different heights while others include storage for cords, pens and other small items. Many laptop desks are also great to use on top of tables or desks thanks to their height, which raises the monitor to eye level and makes it more comfortable when typing on an external keyboard.
Whether you’re sitting on the couch to stream a movie, following a recipe while making dinner, watching a tutorial on a home improvement project while at your workbench, or sitting in bed while working on your next big presentation, a mini laptop desk is one of the best accessories for a laptop.
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1. Garbani Laptop Tray
BEST OVERALL
For a laptop desk that will work on your couch, bed, or floor and comes with bonus storage, we like the Garbani Laptop Tray. The bamboo laptop desk has a hollowed-out swirl-shaped top that helps to provide airflow underneath the laptop and keep it cool even after hours of use. The angle of the tray can be adjusted and the desk also has a flat side surface that is ideal for a mouse. The side of the desk also has a small drawer that can be used to store cords or pens. We also like that the legs, which can be adjusted to different heights, fold in for a compact storage option.
2. Mavo Craft Folding Lap Desk
BEST STORAGE
A laptop desk helps users create a workspace just about anywhere and with the Mavo Craft Folding Lap Desk, the secret storage compartment means users can keep their office supplies on hand. The Mavo Craft provides a large workspace that measures 17 inches long by 12 inches wide and will fit most laptops. Wires, pens and pencils, notebooks and other small items weighing up to seven pounds can be kept in the large storage compartment that is easily accessed by simply lifting the top of the desk. The Mavo Craft has two solid legs that flip out when in use and fold flat for a compact storage option.
3. AOOU Cool Desk Laptop Stand
KEEPS COMPUTERS COOL
This fully adjustable lap desk includes three 360 angle knob adjusters on either side of the desk to enable users to find the perfect height and angle for their needs. The AOOU is ideal for users who want a desk while seated or need something taller that can be placed on top of a larger desk or table and be used while standing. The AOOU comes with two built-in CPU cooling fans that can be plugged into the computer’s USB port to keep it cool and stop possible overheating issues. The desk can be fully flattened to 1.6 inches for a compact storage option. We also like that the AOOU features a removable mousepad.
4. Avantree Neetto Height Adjustable Laptop Bed Desk
COMPACT STORAGE
Give yourself space to spread out with the Avantree Neetto Height Adjustable Laptop Bed Desk. The oversized laptop desk measures 24 inches long by 13 inches wide, giving users ample room for a mouse pad and mouse on either side of their laptop. The fold-out legs can be adjusted between a height of 9.4 to 12.6 inches and a lever can be set between 0 and 30 degrees and secured with a lock button for an angled desktop. Made from 100 percent high-quality engineered wood, the Avantree has an attractive American Cherry finish. Users have the option to install a wide lip or small ‘pencil catchers’ at the bottom of the table to keep items from sliding or rolling off the edge.
5. Portable Laptop Desk by Nearpow
INCLUDES SEVERAL ACCESSORIES
For a portable desk that feels like a full-sized desk, we recommend the model from Nearpow. This oversized laptop desk includes several smart features to make working from bed, the couch, or a coffee shop a breeze. A pull-out tray provides a storage spot for pens and pencils and includes a drink and phone holder. A slot at the top of the desk can hold tablets or a removable book holder that can be placed in the slot or used on its own. An ergonomic cut-out at the bottom of the desk allows users to comfortably sit close to the edge. We also like that the bottom of the desk has a curved design with a non-slip pad instead of a high ledge. When not in use, the Nearpow’s legs fold under the desk and a carrying handle provides a convenient way to transport the desk.
6. Mind Reader Portable Laptop
BEST CUSHION
If your current laptop desk is a pillow and you don’t want to give up your comfortable setup, we recommend the Mind Reader Portable Laptop Desk. The Mind Reader comes in a variety of colors and features dual cushions for a comfortable setup. (We see you working from home on the couch, and we salute you.)
7. Flash Furniture Adjustable Mobile Laptop Computer Desk
BEST FOR STANDING
For a laptop desk that gives users the option to sit or stand, we like the Flash Furniture Adjustable Mobile Laptop Computer Desk. Unlike most laptop desks that are made for standing, the Flash Furniture model goes up to a max height of 37.5 inches, which is significantly higher than competitors and much more comfortable for an average-sized adult. A pneumatic frame height adjustment lever makes it easy for users to go from sitting to standing and a durable nylon base with dual wheel casters provides a convenient way to move the desk from room to room.
8. SAIJI Adjustable Laptop Stand
LARGE WORKSPACE
For a laptop desk that acts like a full-sized desk but with the added advantage of being portable, we like the Saiji Adjustable Laptop Stand. The extra-large surface area measures 23.6 inches by 17.9 inches to give users ample room for their computer, mouse, and other accessories. Five height options up to 15.4 inches are available and the Saiji can be tilted between 0 and 36 degrees. The oversized laptop desk includes a tablet and phone holder and a small storage drawer. A small, raised lip at the bottom of the tray keeps laptops and pens from sliding off and when users are done, the legs fold for a compact storage option. A great desk for work, eating, or kid’s crafts, the Saiji has one of the largest footprints and gives users several ways to customize their setup.
9. Kentevin Adjustable Laptop Computer Stand
BEST BARGAIN
For a laptop desk that will lift up your computer without lifting too much from your wallet, we like the affordable Kentevin Adjustable Laptop Computer Stand. Designed to be used on top of a desk or table, the Kentevin works for 10 to 15.6-inch tablets and laptops and has a secondary holder for smartphones. Users can choose from eight heights to angle their laptop and the holder has non-slip rubber pads to keep the Kentevin and your laptop in place. The foldable laptop stand can be rotated 360 degrees, making it easy to share your screen with others. Made from durable ABS plastic, the Kentevin is a lightweight stand that can hold up to 44 pounds.
Also Consider: The Lift
BEST FOR DESKS
We are big fans of FluidStance’s newest creation, The Lift (check out our full review here). Part laptop desk, part note taker, the metal unit is ideal for users who want their laptop placed at eye-level on their desks. The Lift is a stable laptop holder that keeps your computer secure and at an ergonomic level for a more comfortable work setup. The front of the Lift can also be used as a whiteboard and the unit comes with a dry erase marker and eraser. A great two-in-one product, the Lift gives laptops a lift whether your workspace is a desk, kitchen counter, or workshop.
Keep in mind, this isn’t designed to sit on your lap like some laptop desks. The metal frame will be too heavy to rest on your lap, but it’s still one of our favorite portable laptop desks.