While working from home, I often consider sitting at a desk. However, I have seen some friends use a table, which works well.
Most people working from home are often confused about using a desk or table. What could be the best between these two?
In general, a desk is particularly dedicated to one person for work purposes, whereas a table accommodates many people for multiple uses like eating, studying, and playing games. Tables have no built-in storage, whereas desks have storage space such as cabinets or drawers.
This article will provide critical information about the differences between working on a desk and a table.
Furthermore, we will also discuss the best choice while working from home.
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Desk vs. Table: What should you Buy for your Home Office?
Many people are confused when choosing between a desk and a table because they are similar in some ways.
Both desk and table have flat surfaces that allow you to work easily. When it comes to storage, you can store things on the top of both the desk and table.
Although they sound similar, desks and tables are not the same furniture.
Therefore, it is essential to consider everything, including the size, designs, ergonomic features, and storage, while choosing between them.
Before deciding what could be the best for you, make sure to know some of the significant differences between a table and a desk.
Here is an overview table highlighting the differences between a desk and a table.
| Parameters | Desk | Table |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Height: 28 to 30 inches Width and length can be smaller than tables | Height: 28 to 30 inches Width and length is usually larger than desk |
| Storage Space | Comes with storage space like drawers, cabinets etc. Consumes lesser space | Doesn't have storage option Consumes more space |
| Budget | Desk can be pricey | Tables are usually cheaper than desks |
| Sturdy Built | Desks are usually sturdy built with quality wooden material to withstand heavy weights | Tables are lightly built with light wood, glass. May not withstand heavy weights |
| Purpose | Mainly for work purpose | Can be used for multiple purposes like work, entertainment, eating dinner and so on |
| Efficiency | Especially for single person use | Can be used by multiple people |
| Personalization | Offers personalization option since it is used by single person | Doesn't offer much personalization options |
| Ergonomic Features | Offers ergonomic features such as height adjustable, allows sitting or standing option | Doesn't offer ergonomic features |
| Designs | Offers various designs | Offers limited designs |
Let us learn more about the differences between a desk and a table without further ado.
1. Difference in Storage Space
Tables and desks differ in terms of storage space. Generally, tables lack storage areas, so it could be a little challenging to manage things properly.
If you are someone who easily gets distracted by the things you store on your desks, including some knick-knacks or anything else, you may opt for a table.
A work desk generally consists of drawers, cupboards, and cubby spaces to store all the documents, textbooks, and other supplies.
When the required items are available nearby, you can focus more on your job and boost your productivity.
Meanwhile, you can go for a table to limit the necessities in your workspace and keep the necessary items for a particular task.
However, you can choose a desk if you prefer to have everything nearby and do not enjoy reaching out for supplies and necessities.
On the other hand, tables are larger than desks and provide enough surface area. As a result, tables are great for multiple people’s usage.
2. Organization and Maintenance
Desks are much easier to organize and maintain because of certain reasons.
A desk offers designated storage areas like cubbies and drawers for all the work materials. This way, all the clutter can be out of sight, and you won’t have to deal with the entire mess on your work desk.
At the same time, due to a lack of storage space, a table can look messy and unorganized.
Everything needs to be kept on top of the table. Therefore, it can also create distractions and loss of focus.
3. Difference in the Level of Efficiency
If you live in a large family with multiple members, having a personalized space dedicated solely to your work purpose becomes easier.
This allows you to focus better on your task while being less distracted.
A desk provides you with the maximum amount of comfort and space, all yours.
Since a desk generally belongs to only one person, your family members won’t usually stop by the area. This way, you can increase the efficiency of work.
On the contrary, a table is easily accessible and can be used by many people for multiple purposes. Therefore, performing the job efficiently on a table is a little challenging.
It’s simple for people to swarm around a table, making it very challenging for someone working or studying to concentrate on the task.
4. Options for Personalization
A personalized workspace would make anyone more than happy. A customized work desk belongs to just one person. So basically, you own your space.
A desk allows you to have options for personalization; you can have the freedom of decorating it according to your choice.
However, a table is used by everyone living with you. So, the table may also switch its positions frequently.
Since there will be an absence of a designated space, it is challenging to personalize a table.
Read more; 16 Effective Ways to Enhance your Home Office Desk’s Aesthetics
5. The Technological Differences
Nowadays, many modern-day furniture is coming up with technological options that may come in handy.
Some work desks have particular ports and plugs so that you can quickly charge your phone, laptop, or any other digital appliance at work.
The desks having such features are a little expensive but worth it.
At the same time, desks are height adjustable so that the users can make the setup as per their comfort. However, a table doesn’t have the height adjusting feature.
Moreover, desk risers are available to raise the height of an existing desk. On the other hand, there is no such equipment for tables.
6. Differences in Designs
Desks usually have a wider variety of design options compared to the table. Tables, in general, look the same, while work desks have varieties of designs.
The different types of Desks and Tables are mentioned in the table:
| Desks Types | Tables Types |
|---|---|
| Executive Desk | Patio Table |
| Built-in Desk | Dining Table |
| Standing Desk | Meeting Table |
| L-Shaped Desk | Discussion Table |
| Floating Desk | Conference Table |
| Shell Desk | Computer Table |
It is simpler to purchase tables as they are simple and more adaptable options, and you’re sure to find one that fits your home office.
7. An Option to Stand or Sit
Using a table in your home office forces you to sit down in the same position for a more extended period as they are not height adjustable.
On the other hand, a desk offers you the average sitting design. Once you start working in a comfortable position, your productivity will increase at a breakneck pace.
Furthermore, the desk also offers the option to buy a standing desk that ensures several benefits related to health.
You can purchase a standing desk converter if you are working from home.
A standing desk converter is a portable workstation unit that is highly portable, and you can place it at the top of your existing work desk.
With a standing desk converter, you can sit or stand whenever you like.
8. Sturdy Build
Desks are designed for use by working people, so they are built strongly and useful for an extended period.
The primary purpose of the desk is to withstand all the office equipment, including laptops, desktops, mobile phones, and tons of paperwork, documents, projects, and books.
At the same time, a table may not have a very strong build compared to desks. Therefore it may not ensure the accommodation of all office essentials.
Tables are usually made of glass, light wood, metal, and marbles, while desks are usually made of natural wood, tempered glass, quality hardwoods, and solid plastic.
Related Article: What are the Best Materials for Office Desk?
9. Different Budget Options
Both tables and desks have differences in their budget options. Not every desk has to be expensive, and not every table has to be cheap.
Having said that, you can find different options for different budgets in various places.
Desks are more expensive than tables. However, not all desks are costly; some can be purchased for less than $200.
You can expect to pay about $100 for the Cubicubi computer desk. However, a desk with storage and other technological features will cost you even more.
On the other hand, not all tables are inexpensive or costly. For example, a writing computer table can cost around $150.
10. Ergonomic Positioning
Desks are usually dedicated to work and study purposes; they have better ergonomic features than a standard table.
A desk provides enough space to comfortably adjust your feet, knees, and thigh at work.
Moreover, an ergonomic chair easily fits into a desk. This way, you will have proper positioning while working from home.
It ensures a comfortable working environment while taking care of your posture and health. However, when you purchase a table for your home office, an ergonomic chair may not go well.
Tables are usually heavier and larger than desks, and as a result, it is not flexible.
You may be interested to read about; What is the Right Size Desk for your Home Office?
Final Verdict
Regarding comfort and ease, using a desk in your home office sounds like a better idea. It is always good to create your own dedicated space for work purposes.
A desk offers you a designated and personalized space that belongs only to you. With access to a lot of storage for supplies and a sturdy build to support the office equipment, a desk can be the better choice while working.
However, a working table is not a problem. Many people work from home, utilizing the multipurpose table with work. You can always make a space on your own through some creative efforts.
Make sure to take care of your posture at work and learn some organizational skills.
Related Article: 8 Minimalist Desk Setup Ideas for Home Office
