10 Best Lap Desks in 2022 (Avantree, Mind Reader, and More)
Now that working from home has become more common, do you find yourself slouching while using your laptop on the sofa, or in bed? Is your laptop overheating from resting on a pillow? Or perhaps you have kids who need a comfortable space to complete their homework. If you're looking to reduce the discomfort of working without a desk, try investing in a lap desk! We did some digging for you and found a myriad of options - big, small, flexible, and compact.
Our top choice is the Avantree Neeto Lap Desk. It's good-looking, versatile, and full of useful features. And if your legs get sore from prolonged sitting, this desk offers enough space to move around to prevent any possible numbness. Check out more of our favorites on our 10 best list, and for more helpful tips, be sure to check out our extensive buying guide!
Quick List - Top Lap Desks

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How to Choose Lap Desks
A lap desk isn't just for those with space constraints at home. It's also for students and adults who love to work from the comfort of their bed or couch! Look for lap desks that come with ergonomic benefits. The best ones reduce pressure on your wrists, promote better posture, and alleviate neck and shoulder pain from hunching over.
Pick a Design That Suits Your Lifestyle
Lap desks come in a wide variety, including models with legs, cushions, and ventilation. If you're a gamer with a heavy laptop, you may prefer a sturdier option with legs and ventilation. Younger kids doing homework will likely benefit from a lighter, cushioned desk. Many lap desks aim to provide stability and comfort, but the right lap desk will depend on how you plan to use it.
Simple Designs Are Portable and Versatile

Standard lap desks have a sturdy surface with soft padding underneath that will be soft on your thighs. They commonly have a wood, faux wood, plastic, or metal surface. You can also find models with additional features such as slots for placing a phone, tablet, or mouse pad.
However, such models are not resistant to movement, so things may slide around. Luckily, some options include features to stop things from sliding, like raised ridges or non-slip surfaces. Overall, these desks are lightweight, highly portable (especially if they have a handle), and great if you’re working from your couch.
Legs Add Stability for Working or Crafting

The standing-type lap desks are supported by legs on two sides. These desks don’t rest on your legs but are designed to fit over them. The desk’s legs can usually be folded for easy storage, and some come with expandable legs that can be raised or lowered. If the desk has a tilt adjustment, it can be angled at a level to give a glare-free viewing experience too!
This stand design gives you enough room to cross or move your legs without jostling the items on the desk. Depending on the model, you can find features like a tablet slot, cup holder, slide-out trays, drawers, or cable holes as well.
Keep an eye out for legs that won't wobble. It's worth checking out reviews to see if the desk is well-made and sturdy. You don't want an unstable desk that will send your items to the floor every time you move!
Wood, laminated wood, steel, aluminum, and plastic are used to design these desks. Try selecting a desk with anti-slip pads on the feet to ensure stability and prevent damaging your bed or sofa.
Cushions for Better Comfort

Many lap desks have cushions underneath. These cushions reduce the discomfort of balancing a heavy computer. The downside is that over longer periods of time, a cushioned desk can make your lap very warm, though they tend to be more portable and versatile than standing models.
The padding is also a barrier against laptop-shaped marks or mild burns caused by hours of using a hot computer. Cushioned lap desks may use memory foam padding, or microfiber beads inside a soft material like polyester. Memory foam is often ideal for keeping the desk from sliding and offers a comfortable working experience.
Make Sure It's Large Enough for Your Laptop, Books, or Crafts

The lap desk surface should be wide enough to hold your laptop and other devices. It's best if the desk's width is a few inches larger than your laptop. If your computer is 17 inches wide, look for lap desks that measure at least 19 inches wide. For crafts, you may want something larger; and if you're just studying, models that are 15 inches wide should suffice.
Some desks come with a fixed mouse pad shelf, so make sure that it's placed on the side that matches your dominant hand! A wider desk leaves enough space for wrist placement for both left and right-handed people. This extra space also lets you keep your other belongings on the sides if there's no storage provided.
Regardless of your dominant hand, the desk should have sufficient space on both sides to keep your work essentials. If you're using an iPad or tablet, you may want additional space for a keyboard. If you're an artist, you may want a simple desk with no textured surface or cut-outs.
Seek Heat Distribution and Ventilation for Working or Gaming

It's normal for laptops to heat up while running for hours, especially if you're gaming. If there's no way for the heat to escape, your computer can abruptly shut down or crash. Most laptops come with rubber feet to slightly elevate them from the desk surface and encourage airflow, but it's a good idea for your laptop desk to allow for extra ventilation.
Always choose a model with a ventilation option, such as ventilation holes or padding that can absorb heat from the laptop. This can shield your thighs from potential burns caused by hours of using the laptop. Gamers especially will need good ventilation while running CPU-intensive games.
Some desks come with a built-in fan to help your laptop run cooler. The fan operates through a USB cable connected to your laptop and can be a great way to keep you and your laptop cool.
Consider Extra Features Like Storage or Wrist Rests

Most lap desks come with additional features, such as a slot for a phone, tablet, or book. If you want extra comfort for your wrists, look for a lap desk with a padded wrist rest. Keep in mind that these features can be an obstruction if you use your desk to write, draw, or do crafts, though.
You can find other useful features such as a cup holder or a retractable mouse tray. Some unique features, such as a tilt adjustment or a built-in fan, light, or handle can be helpful depending on your needs, but they may not be necessary.
Consider your working environment and style to determine if you need these extras. For example, if you often work at night, a built-in lamp might be essential!
10 Best Lap Desks Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Avantree Height-Adjustable Laptop Bed Desk|TB101L | ![]() | Best Desk for Large Laptops and a Mouse | |
2 | LapGear Lap Desk with Built-in Mouse Pad | ![]() | Best Simple Padded Laptop Desk for Right Handers | |
3 | Mind Reader 8-Position Laptop Desk |LTADJUST | ![]() | Best Compact Lap Desk | |
4 | Sofia + Sam Lap Desk with USB Light | ![]() | Best Padded Desk With a Light | |
5 | Cooper Cases XXL Folding Laptop Desk | ![]() | Best Spacious Desk for Students | |
6 | AboveTEK Lap Desk With Retractable Mouse Pad | ![]() | Best Ultra-Slim Desk for Devices | |
7 | Nnewvante Adjustable Bamboo LapDesk with USB Fan | ![]() | Best Ventilated Desk for Gaming | |
8 | MavoCraft Laptop Desk with Soft Cushion | ![]() | Best Cushioned Lap Desk You Can Flip to Use for Naps | |
9 | MavoCraft Standing Lap Desk with Storage | ![]() | Best Lap Desk for Kids | |
10 | Uncaged Ergonomics Angle tilt Aluminum Desktop Tray | ![]() | Best Lap Desk to Use Either Sitting or Standing |
AvantreeHeight-Adjustable Laptop Bed Desk | TB101L
Best Desk for Large Laptops and a Mouse
Pros:
- Height-adjustable
- Tilt makes it comfortable for wrists
- Lipped bottom edge prevents device sliding off
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained of wobbly legs
- Set up for right-handed use only
This desk is designed so you can work comfortably while standing or sitting. It also lets you work from the comfort of your bed without having to slouch or bend over. Just angle it to one of the four available levels, pull the locks, and you're good to go! It folds down well, so you can even take it with you.
Some buyers complained of wobbly legs, and for some, the legs came off while in use. But many complimented the desk for its easy assembly, convenience, and multifunctional properties. Many vouched for its quality, confirming that it's sturdy and stable.
Best Simple Padded Laptop Desk for Right Handers
Pros:
- Large desktop surface
- Phone slot
- Dual bolster cushion
- Lightweight
- Available in different colors
Cons:
- Some reviewers wanted a stopper to keep the mouse from slipping down
- Not for laptops over 15.6 inches if you want to use a mouse too
This desk from LapGear comes with an integrated right-handed mouse pad and a large laptop surface. The sturdy, smooth surface also comes with a phone slot and a device ledge to prevent your laptop from sliding. Two bolsters support the desk and give comfort to your thighs while using it.
Some reviewers disliked the bolsters, saying that they flatten when a heavy laptop is used. But, many buyers commended the lightweight desk for its convenience and the comfort it provided. They say it's stable and works well to keep their laptop's heat away from their legs while working on the couch or in bed.
Best Compact Lap Desk
Pros:
- Comfortable even with a heavy laptop
- Can be angled or flat
- Padded bottom
- Folds flat with handle for portability
- Lip keeps laptop or book from sliding
Cons:
- Too small for some reviewers
- Some reviewers felt the plastic wasn't high quality
- Not suitable for larger laptops
If you like to recline while working, you will love this product. You can work pain-free by choosing one of eight different angles for your laptop. The compact desk also features two bolsters below to stabilize the surface. If a flat desk is what you prefer, transform it into a simple lap desk to work straight from your couch or bed.
Some users felt the plastic wasn't very high-quality. But, many commended this lap desk for the comfort, even when a heavy laptop or book is placed on top. Many had great things to say about the padded bottom and the convenience of using it in a relaxed position.
Best Padded Desk With a Light
Pros:
- Comfortable and padded with memory foam
- Suitable for small or medium-sized laptops
- Retractable, ambidextrous mouse tray
- Removable USB light
- Tablet and phone slot
Cons:
- Some reviewers found it heavy and uncomfortable
- No anti-slide texture for mouse
This comfy, padded lap desk includes a slide-out mouse deck, wrist rest, phone slot, and USB light. The phone slot has a cable hole for convenient charging. The tablet slot holds bigger phones or tablets that are nine inches or smaller. And with the removable USB light, you'll always have enough light to work with.
Some users felt that the desk was heavy and caused some discomfort with extended use. Others complained that the mouse slides at the slightest movement. But, overall, there were many rave reviews about this sturdy, lightweight and stable lap desk. Plus, they liked the included storage pocket for the light!
Best Spacious Desk for Students
Pros:
- Large desk surface
- Classic look and great features
- Bookstand has fold-out legs
- Foldable, with rope handle for carrying
- Strong legs and feet
Cons:
- Heavier than some other models
- Height isn't adjustable
Besides the generous desk surface, this has a tablet slot, a book stand, and a slide-out drawer with a phone slot. The aluminum legs with rubber feet sit over 10 and a half inches high, so there's room under the desk to cross or stretch your legs.
The height of the desk was uncomfortable for users, however. Some said it's heavy as well. But most thought the desk was spacious, sturdy, and convenient. It worked great for students who needed books, a laptop or tablet, and enough writing space.
Best Ultra-Slim Desk for Devices
Pros:
- Simple, lightweight design
- Anti-slip textured surface
- Heat shield
- Retractable mouse pad for left or right hand
- Good for notebook laptops or tablets
Cons:
- Some felt the heat shield was insufficient
- Not suitable for 15.6-inch or larger laptops
- The center logo is slightly raised, so avoid this if your laptop has short feet or is flat on the bottom
The highlights of the elegant-looking lap desk are the anti-slip textured surface and the retractable mouse pad. The mouse pad can be used on either side, and features raised edges to prevent the mouse from sliding. The desk surface is made of a silicon-plastic combination that gives adequate shielding from heat.
Some complained of the heat shield not preventing heat transfer to the thighs. But, many appreciated the utility of the mouse tray and loved the minimalist design for being anti-slip, lightweight, and stable.
Nnewvante Adjustable Bamboo LapDesk with USB Fan
Best Ventilated Desk for Gaming
Pros:
- Elegant bamboo design
- Suitable for large laptops
- Height- and tilt-adjustable
- Built-in silent fan for hot laptops and gaming
- Storage for stationery supplies
Cons:
- The mouse tray is only for right-handed users
- Some reviewers felt the desk wobbled
The bamboo lap desk is angle- and height-adjustable, so you can position it in whatever way you find comfortable. There's a side drawer that slides out to hold office supplies. A built-in silent fan connects to your laptop, which is perfect for heated high-performance gaming. The baffle at the front can be removed if you're keeping the desk flat.
Some reviewers stated that the desk became wobbly and the drawer didn't slide out easily. The fan's cable was also reported to be flimsy by some buyers. However, many users complimented the desk for its craftsmanship, construction, and ease of use. Many commended the fan for its quiet operation, too.
Best Cushioned Lap Desk You Can Flip to Use for Naps
Pros:
- Suitable for medium-size laptops
- Comfortable six-inch-high polystyrene-stuffed cushion
- Doubles as a pillow
- Great for kids doing homework
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- The cushion can be slippery
- Smaller than other lap desks
Use this desk to work on your laptop, then when you're tired, flip it and use it as a pillow to rest on! The design is simple, but the top is sturdy enough to hold your laptop and give you a comfortable working posture. The beans inside the pillow conform to your legs, or your head while napping.
Some reviewers felt that the cushion was slippery. For other buyers, the desk was too small to accommodate their laptops. But, many loved this simple desk for its soft feel and sturdy support. If you are traveling, this can be your best friend for working and sleeping.
Best Lap Desk for Kids
Pros:
- Ample storage under the desktop
- Legs collapse for easy carrying
- Simple and durable design
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Insufficient legroom for adults
- Not suitable for larger laptops
This durable desk comes with stable slab legs and is suitable for smaller laptops. Lift the desk surface, and you will find enough space to store your stationery supplies, books, or even snacks, making it ideal for children doing homework.
The lack of legroom was a concern for some reviewers, as only small to medium-sized people could rest their legs comfortably underneath. But many others loved this versatile desk for working, doing crafts, or reading. Plus, some reviewers even took it with them for long car rides.
Uncaged ErgonomicsAngle tilt Aluminum Desktop Tray
Best Lap Desk to Use Either Sitting or Standing
Pros:
- Flexible height and angle
- Ambidextrous mouse pad
- Can adjust to become a standing desk
- Suitable for large laptops
- Strong aluminum parts
Cons:
- Can be very tricky to adjust, according to users
- Some reviewers felt it had poor build quality
This desk has flexible legs that can be folded, stretched flat, or extended to create a suitable working position. It can be raised to 18 inches and tilted up to 360 degrees to achieve a glare-free viewing angle. With its flexibility, you get enough legroom to stretch out your legs or cross them, too.
There were quite a few concerns regarding the difficulty in adjusting the desk, and some recommend keeping the instructions. But many others found it highly portable, flexible, and sturdy. They love how it works as a lap desk as well as a standing desk.
Check Out More Useful Accessories for Your Home Office
If you're considering buying a new laptop or accessories, we can help you make a choice. Check out these other useful items!
Top 5 Lap Desks
No. 1: Avantree|Height-Adjustable Laptop Bed Desk|TB101L
No. 2: LapGear|Lap Desk with Built-in Mouse Pad
No. 3: Mind Reader |8-Position Laptop Desk |LTADJUST
No. 4: Sofia + Sam|Lap Desk with USB Light
No. 5: Cooper Cases|XXL Folding Laptop Desk
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.