One of the most overlooked yet crucial components of any PC gaming setup is the desk—right behind the gaming chair. The last thing you want is for your pricey gaming PC or monitor to crash to the ground due to a shaky, bargain-bin desk. A proper gaming desk not only prevents such disasters but also enhances your gaming experience. I've carefully selected the top gaming desks to help you make an informed choice.
Our top pick### Secretlab Magnus Pro
3See it at Secretlab### Cooler Master GD160
3See it at Amazon### Thermaltake ToughDesk 500L RGB Battlestation
3See it at Thermaltake### Eureka Aero Pro
6See it at Eureka Ergonomic### Flexispot Comhar Electric Standing Desk
1See it at AmazonWith years of experience reviewing desks for PC gaming setups, I've done the legwork to bring you the best options. Whether you need something compact for a bedroom, budget-friendly yet reliable, or a desk that adjusts to your sitting and standing needs, these are my top five picks for every type of gamer.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham
Our top pick### Secretlab Magnus Pro
3Effortlessly switch from sitting to standing with a simple tap. The sturdy steel frame, innovative magnetic ecosystem, and integrated power supply enhance this already exceptional gaming desk. See it at SecretlabProduct SpecificationsDimensions59.1" x 27.6" x 25.6-49.2"Max Load265 poundsHeight Adjustable25.6” to 49.2”PROSHandy magnetic ecosystemIntegrated power supplyCONSRGB lighting costs extra The Secretlab Magnus Pro is an upgraded version of the original Magnus, which my colleague Nic Vargus praised as "Amazing" in his 2021 review. This desk stands out due to its unique magnetic ecosystem, which simplifies the addition of accessories like desk toppers, RGB lighting, and cable management solutions. The Magnus Pro introduces sit-to-stand functionality, adding to its already impressive feature set. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it's worth every penny for its quality and performance.
Crafted entirely from metal, the Magnus Pro facilitates its magnetic features. It includes an integrated cable management system hidden at the back, and for those willing to invest a bit more, themed cable sleeves can add extra flair. If RGB lighting is your preference, Secretlab has partnered with Nanoleaf to offer an easy-to-install RGB light strip. The desk also features an integrated power outlet capable of delivering up to 10 amps, perfect for powering both the desk and a high-performance gaming rig with the addition of a power strip.
Priced around $850, the Magnus Pro's cost is justified by its extensive features, making it a top choice for serious gamers.
### Cooler Master GD160
3This desk offers a sturdy and stable surface with a full-size gaming mouse pad and a cable management tray to keep your setup neat. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions63" x 29" x 28-31.1"Max Load220.5 poundsHeight Adjustable 28" to 31.1"PROSHefty 220.5 pound max loadFull surface mouse padCONSNo standing functionalityFinding a gaming desk that's both robust and affordable is challenging, but Cooler Master's GD160 hits the mark. Priced at around $400, this desk provides a solid frame capable of supporting up to 220.5 pounds and remains stable during intense gaming sessions. Its spacious desktop easily accommodates multiple monitors.
While the GD160 lacks some of the bells and whistles like RGB lighting or standing functionality, it compensates with a cable management tray and a water-resistant mouse pad covering the entire surface. This ensures smooth and precise mouse movement. Though it doesn't convert to a standing desk, it offers minor height adjustments from 28–31.1 inches.
### Thermaltake ToughDesk 500L RGB Battlestation
3A massive, well-constructed L-shaped desk with a large surface area covered in a mouse pad, built-in RGB lighting, and three motors for smooth height adjustments. See it at ThermaltakeProduct SpecificationsDimensions:62.99" x 31.49" x 23.62" Max Load330 poundsHeight Adjustable27.5" to 43.3"PROSThree powerful motors raise and lower desk smoothlyMouse pad that covers massive desk top surface CONSTakes up tons of spaceThe Thermaltake ToughDesk 500L RGB Battlestation is a formidable L-shaped desk built to last. Its steel frame and expansive desktop area make it an ideal choice for corner setups. With three motors, it effortlessly transitions from sitting to standing, with a controller that can store up to four height settings.
The L-shaped design offers an additional side desk, perfect for a laptop or extra shelving. This setup is especially useful for keeping your gaming PC off the floor and out of the way, freeing up the main desk space. The desk's large mouse pad covers both the main and side surfaces, and it includes cable management and built-in RGB lighting that syncs with Razer Chroma and TT RGB Plus. However, be prepared for a hefty price tag of around $1,500.
### Eureka Aero Pro
6The Eureka Aero Pro is a wing-shaped standing desk designed with gamers in mind. See it at Eureka ErgonomicProduct SpecificationsDimensions63 x 29 x 29.5 - 48 inches (W x D x H)Max Load220 lbHeight Adjustable29.5 - 48 inchesPROSLarge desk surface are with unique winged designPowerful motor for standing functionality CONSHard to assembleThe Eureka Aero Pro is a powerhouse of a gaming desk, providing ample space for multiple monitors, a powerful PC, and various accessories. Its winged design enhances accessibility, while three adjustable shelves at the back accommodate additional monitors or speakers. A dedicated keyboard tray with 360-degree rotation and tilt improves ergonomics.
Despite some assembly challenges and less appealing seams where the wings connect, the desk's sturdy construction and sleek finishes are perfect for gaming setups. It features cable management channels, headphone and cup holders, and slots for tablets or smartphones. With powerful dual electric motors, the Aero Pro easily transitions from a standard gaming desk to a standing desk, adjustable from 29.5–48 inches. Keep an eye on its 220-pound weight limit when loading it with tech.
### Flexispot Comhar Electric Standing Desk
1Compact yet feature-rich, this desk is perfect for smaller spaces. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions47.3" x 23.7" x 28.9-46.5"Max Load110 poundsHeight Adjustable28.9" to 46.5"Added FeaturesBuilt-in USB ports and storage drawerPROSCompact size for smaller spacesBuilt-in storageIntegrated USB hubCONSLimited stylesThe FlexiSpot Comhar Electric Standing Desk is ideal for those with limited space. Its 48"x24" size comfortably fits a full gaming setup, including a second monitor. Made with a durable steel frame and solid bamboo desktop, it supports up to 110 pounds and smoothly transitions from sitting to standing.
Though not overtly designed as a gaming desk, the Comhar offers impressive features at an affordable price (often around $250). It includes a built-in storage drawer, a USB hub for device charging, and cable management. Its classy design and functionality make it a great choice for those seeking a compact yet versatile desk.
The best gaming desks should provide a stable and robust platform for your setup and gaming accessories. Consider these factors when choosing the right desk:
Shape and Size: Whether you need a compact desk for a small space or a spacious, multi-level setup, there are options at various price points. Determine your required surface area to narrow your choices.
Features and Appearance: Gaming desks often include features like cupholders, built-in mouse pads, RGB lighting, and storage. Consider what you need and prefer in terms of design and materials.
Adjustability: Some desks are non-adjustable, while others offer height adjustments. Standing desks with powered motors are more expensive but provide flexibility in sitting and standing positions.
Plan your purchase carefully, as returning a large desk can be cumbersome.
Standing desks offer numerous health benefits, including improved posture, reduced back and shoulder pain, increased circulation, and enhanced focus. However, gaming while standing requires a sturdy desk to support your setup and careful positioning of peripherals to maintain comfort and prevent accidents. While standing desks may not directly improve gameplay, the ability to switch between sitting and standing can be liberating during long gaming sessions.
The differences are subtle, as any office desk can serve as a gaming desk and vice versa. However, gaming desks often feature higher load capacities to support heavy gaming monitors or TVs and larger surface areas to accommodate multiple peripherals. Essentially, a good gaming desk is one that meets your specific gaming needs.
While not all US desks are available in the UK, here are some top options:
### FlexiSpotHeight Adjustable PC Gaming Desk
4Best Gaming Desk£239.99 at Amazon### ThermaltakeIkea Utespelare
2Best L-Shaped PC Gaming Desk£150.00 at IKEA### Secretlab Magnus Pro
2Best RGB Gaming DeskSee it at Secretlab### Lian-Li DK-05F Desk
13Best PC Gaming Desk£1,949.99 at Overclockers