Our top choice is the Rossie Home Premium Lap Desk, which boasts a real wood surface over a plush cushion with a machine-washable cover. Ahead, the best lap desks for professionals and students. The Premium Lap Desk comes in three wood species and finishes—acacia with a medium stain, gray-wash ash, or bamboo with a deep espresso finish. Each model has a detachable cushion with fabric upholstery in a complementing hue. The cover is removable, machine washable, and dryer-friendly for your convenience. However, like any real wood surface, you’ll need to be careful about cleaning the top to avoid water damage, and make sure to dry it promptly after wiping it down. While it’s great for on-the-go use, one thing to note is that it only fits laptops up to 13.3 inches, and it doesn’t have a mouse pad or tablet slot. There is, however, a pen slot on top. And if you use it for a tablet or paper notebook, you’ll have plenty of space. We appreciate that the bottom lip prevents your computer from sliding off. Weighing just under 2 pounds, this lap desk is also super lightweight, not to mention affordable. Our only complaint is that it comes in just one color, though black is undoubtedly versatile. This portable desk has a real walnut wood top and a soft sherpa-covered cushioned base. There are a few other options, too, including one with a buffalo plaid cushion and one with a painted surface and a faux fur base. While it’s on the pricier side and is somewhat heavy (just over 6 pounds), this is a great option for students or at-home use when a traditional desk or table isn’t available. The surface is made of engineered wood in your choice of medium walnut or white marble finish, and the legs are powder-coated metal. There’s a built-in cup holder and a slot for your tablet or phone. While we appreciate the versatility of this lap desk—it’s also perfect for breakfast in bed—just bear in mind it’s not adjustable. At 19 by 13.5 by 3 inches, this portable workstation is big enough for most laptops, though you can only fit devices up to 15 inches inside the storage compartment. Below the melamine is a microbead-filled cushion that keeps your lap comfy and cool while you work from anywhere. The price is somewhat steep, but you can definitely count on quality. The plush cushion is filled with the brand’s signature EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam beads. This provides a lightweight, lap-conforming feel no matter where you are or what position you’re in. The stretchy fabric also adds to the overall comfort of this lap desk. The lightweight foam construction makes it easy to pack in large suitcases. There’s also a handy carrying handle and even a side pocket for your phone, charger, glasses, or anything else you want within reach. Not only that, but the removable microsuede cover is conveniently machine-washable. However, unless they fold up, larger units typically aren’t as portable as compact lap desks. In any case, make sure yours is big enough to accommodate your computer or tablet.
Comfort
Zbar recommends thinking about your overall comfort when using a portable workstation. “If work is a thing and not a place, make sure you’re comfortable wherever work finds you,” he says. “The right lap desk or similar concept may help achieve the perfect setting.” For some, the most comfortable option is a lightweight design, while for others, it’s more about getting the proper angle. Additionally, many lap desks have attached cushions below the hard work surface, which can feel better on your legs and minimize heat transfer.
Features
Consider what features you may need or want as well. “Some have pen, phone, and/or drink holders,” Zbar tells The Spruce. Other lap desks have foldable designs, tiltable laptop stands, adjustable surfaces, tablet slots, lips to prevent sliding, mouse pads, and wrist wrests. You’ll also find options with built-in storage.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a copywriter specializing in home design and travel within the commerce space. For this roundup, she spoke with telecommuting expert Jeff Zbar for buying tips and insight into alternative workstations. Next, she researched dozens of designs, narrowing them down to models that stood out in terms of portability, capacity, and comfort. Zbar adds that they can help alleviate the discomfort of a warm laptop on your legs. “Lap desks aid in cooling, whether through elevating the device and improving airflow or removing it from the smothering effects of a comforter or other fabrics,” he explains. “Another benefit includes added stability of the firm surface of the stand.” Theresa has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. You can find more of her bylines on Travel + Leisure, MyDomaine, Byrdie, and People.
