Finding the right office desk is more than just picking a surface to work on—it’s about enhancing productivity, comfort, and style while meeting storage and spatial needs. Whether you’re designing a home office or furnishing a corporate space, this guide will walk you through the main types of office desks and their variations, helping you make the best choice for your workspace.

This is one of the questions I get asked the most, what type of desk should I get? That is a loaded question! Because there are many factors that go into selecting the perfect office desk for your needs, for example- If you handle multiple projects throughout the day and need to keep them separated, then I would say either an L-shaped desk or a U-shaped desk is perfect BUT both of these are office desk designs that take up a lot of square footage and if your office space is limited, then they may not be a viable choice for you. Compromises would have to be made.

Let’s look at some of the most popular office desk types.

Bow Front L Shaped Desk $890.00

Bow Executive Desk Set with Storage Cabinet and Round Table $3210.00

Bow Front U Shaped Desk with Storage $2945.00

Bow Front L Shaped Desk $970.00

Rectangular/Pedestal Desk

The standard office desk! Available as a rectangular desk or pedestal desk, they function the same. Some may say basic but I prefer utilitarian, because if it’s not broke- don’t fix it. A rectangular shape that allows the user to sit comfortably in the middle and use the desktop evenly on either side. Throw in a set of drawers on one of the pedestals (or both) and boom- complete workstation that any office worker can utilize. Let’s get into some specifics of the pedestal desk.

Rectangular/Pedestal Desk Overview

Pedestal desks are a timeless staple in both traditional and contemporary office settings. They typically feature a flat desktop with one or two supporting pedestal bases, which contain built-in drawers for storage.

Variations

• Single Pedestal Desk: Has one set of drawers, ideal for compact spaces.
• Double Pedestal Desk: Includes two drawer pedestals, offering increased storage.
• Executive Pedestal Desk: Often larger and more decorative, suitable for managerial or executive offices.
• Pedestal Desks with File Drawers: Equipped with larger drawers for letter or legal-size files.

Best For

• Anyone working in an office environment
• Professionals needing storage
• Executive offices
• Traditional office aesthetics

L-Shaped Desk

We move on to my personal favorite, the L-shaped desk. I have worked from six different L-shaped desks throughout my career and I will always champion them as the ultimate office desk design. Just look at them, double the desktop work area of the pedestal desk yet, take up roughly the same square footage, maybe a little more. Perfect for anyone who works on more than one project throughout the day and needs to keep them separate or how I like to use them- computer, keyboard and monitor on one side, while using the return for drawings, and writing duties.

Let’s take a deeper look at the L-shaped desk.

L-Shaped Desk Overview

L-shaped desks are excellent office desks that offer ample workspace by forming a right angle, making them perfect for multitaskers or corner placement. Double the desktop work space of a traditional pedestal desk.

Variations

• L-Shaped Desk with Drawers: Integrated pedestal drawers provide essential storage for documents and supplies.
• L-Shaped Desk with Hutch: Adds overhead shelving for storing books, binders, or personal items.
• L-Shaped Desk with Storage Cabinets: Adds closed-door storage for keeping office clutter out of sight.
• Reversible L-Shaped Desks: Let you assemble the return (side portion) on either the left or right, adapting to room layout.

Best For

• Corner spaces
• Dual-monitor setups
• Professionals balancing administrative and computer work

U-Shaped Desk

Moving on to the largest office desk shape, the U-shaped desk. As much as I champion an L-shaped desk, the U-shaped desk is basically the big brother of it. The big brother who has been sneaking HGH (human growth hormones) treatments for years. Instead of having two work surfaces, it has three- main desk, bridge on one side of the worker and a credenza style desk directly behind the user. This set up is perfect for anyone who has the office space and multitasks constantly, or for someone who does very little but wants to appear to be important in the office (no judgment.)

Here are some details about U-shaped desks.

U-Shaped Desk Overview

U-shaped desks deliver the most workspace, with three connected surfaces forming a “U.” They’re excellent for executives, receptionists, or anyone who needs to stay highly organized. They consume a lot of square footage in the office space; it is important to consider this before making a purchase.

Variations

• U-Shaped Desk with Hutch: Offers upper-level storage and privacy.
• U-Shaped Desk with Wardrobe Closet: An extra large variation of the U-shaped desk that has a closet attached for personal items such as a jacket.
• U-Shaped Desk with Credenza: Combines a desk, bridge, and rear credenza for extensive storage and work surface.

Best For

• Executives and managers
• High-volume work environments
• Spacious office layouts

Bow Front Desk

I like to call the bow front desk the office desk/conference table hybrid because of the intent of the design. A bow front desk is excellent for anyone who hosts guests in their workspace. In corporate offices where the conference room and the board rooms are often booked, the bow front desk provides an alternative meeting space for a small number of guests. The bow front acts as a de facto conference table between user and guests creating an intimate meeting space within the confines of the office.

Bow Front Desk Overview

A bow front desk features a curved front edge, providing a more inviting look for face-to-face interactions. This makes them ideal for reception areas or executive offices that host clients or colleagues.

Variations

• Bow Front Desk with Return: Adds side workspace, sometimes as part of an L- or U-shaped configuration.
• Bow Front Desk with Drawers: Includes integrated storage solutions.
• Reception Bow Front Desks: Designed specifically for receptionist use, often paired with privacy panels or transaction counters.

Best For

• Executives who host visitors
• Reception areas
• Offices seeking a modern, professional appearance

Sit-Stand Desk

Let’s take a close look at the most modern design of office desks, the sit stand desk. Made for the modern office worker who needs to find creative ways to get out of a desk chair throughout the work day. I am very keen on making sure that everyone knows this is a fantastic option to help alleviate aches and pains that come with office work. The sit-stand desk is one of the greatest weapons for an office worker to battle the sedentary lifestyle that is inherent with the profession.

Sit-Stand Desk Overview

A sit-stand desk also known as a height-adjustable desk, is a modern take on the office desk that allows users to switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the workday. This flexibility promotes ergonomic health, improves posture, and can help reduce fatigue during long hours at a workstation.

Variations

• Electric Sit-Stand Desk: Powered by motors, these desks allow seamless height adjustment with the push of a button. Many include programmable presets for quick transitions.
• Manual Sit-Stand Desk: Adjusted by a hand crank or pneumatic lift. These are typically more affordable but require physical effort to operate.
• L-Shaped Sit-Stand Desk: Combines the benefits of sit-stand functionality with expanded workspace. Often used in executive or home office setups.
• Desktop Converter: Sits on top of a traditional desk, providing standing capabilities without replacing the existing furniture.

Best For

• Employees focused on ergonomic wellness
• Hybrid office setups and hot desking environments
• Home office users looking to stay active while working
• Companies promoting health-conscious workplace cultures

Computer Desk

There is a noticeable change from the previous entries to this type. This is where compromises get difficult. A computer desk is designed with enough space for the computer to sit on and the user to comfortably work, but not much else. The computer desk is often chosen when there isn’t any square footage available and hard decisions have to be made. Such as in a home office where there is no dedicated office space. They are also perfect for the student at home or in a dorm room.

Computer Desk Overview

Computer desks are purpose-built for digital work. They often include features like cable grommets, keyboard trays, and monitor shelves. Best for workers who performs the majority of their office desk work on a computer/laptop.

Variations

• Compact Computer Desk: Great for small offices or home use.
• Computer Desk with Keyboard Tray: Provides ergonomic typing posture.
• Computer Desk with Storage: Includes shelves or cabinets for tech accessories.
• Mobile Computer Desk: Often on casters, suitable for flexible office setups.

Best For

• Home offices
• Tech-centric roles
• Students and telecommuters

Key Considerations When Choosing Your Office Desk

When choosing the perfect office desk for your needs, there are several factors that play a part in deciding the outcome. Below I will highlight the primary factors to consider, but want to stress that sometimes, compromises will need to be made if one or more of them cannot be met properly. This balance is a constant struggle with many who work from an office desk. Let’s dive in.

Space & Layout

Measure your available space and consider traffic flow. An L- or U-shaped desk might be too large for small rooms but ideal in open layouts.

Storage Needs

Evaluate how much you need to store. Pedestal and U-shaped desks often provide ample storage, while minimalist computer desks do not.

Functionality

Consider your daily tasks. Will you be writing, typing, meeting with clients, or multitasking with multiple monitors?

Style & Material

Office desks come in a range of finishes, from wood veneer and laminate to metal and glass. Choose a style that matches your décor and durability needs.

Ergonomics

Ensure the desk height, keyboard placement, and monitor position support healthy posture and productivity.

Understanding Office Desk Costs: Key Factors That Influence Price

When shopping for the right office desk, price is naturally one of the most influential factors. While it's easy to compare prices at face value, it's crucial to understand what actually drives the cost of an office desk. Here’s a breakdown of the major components that impact desk pricing so you can make an informed investment:

Materials: Engineered vs. Premium Options

The material used in constructing a desk significantly affects its price. Entry-level desks often found in retail stores use materials like particle board with laminate finishes, which are cost-effective but may lack durability over time. In contrast, higher-end options may feature solid hardwood, real wood veneer, or heavy-duty steel frames, which increase longevity but can heavily increase cost.

Mid-range desks might incorporate thermally fused laminate (TFL) or high-pressure laminate (HPL) surfaces. These materials balance affordability with durability, making them popular in professional office environments. Don't overlook metal components either—powder-coated steel or aluminum hardware contributes both to aesthetics and pricing.

Office Desk Size: Bigger Isn’t Always Better—But It Is Pricier

Larger office desks naturally require more raw material, which drives up both production and shipping costs. Executive desks, L-shaped desks, and U-shaped configurations tend to be larger and therefore more expensive than standard rectangular desks.

Additionally, consider how height adjustability or modular add-ons (like return shells, hutches, or credenzas) contribute to size—and subsequently, cost. Even within similar styles, a few inches can mean a notable difference in price.

Office Desk Shape: Complexity Comes at a Premium

The shape of your desk isn’t just about aesthetics or space efficiency- it’s also tied directly to the cost. A basic rectangular desk is generally the most budget-friendly. More complex shapes like L-desks, U-desks, corner desks, or curved reception desks often require additional components and engineering, making them pricier to manufacture and ship.

Moreover, custom desk layouts or configurations that accommodate specialized workflows or team setups may come at an additional premium due to their bespoke nature.

Shipping and Freight Costs

One of the most overlooked contributors to office desk pricing is shipping. Desks are large, heavy items that may require freight shipping, especially for commercial-grade models. Factors like destination (residential vs. commercial delivery), assembly requirements, and white-glove delivery services can all add to the final invoice.

Some companies offer “free shipping,” but this is often built into the product price. Others provide bulk discounts or shipping incentives for orders exceeding a certain quantity or price threshold.

Brand and Manufacturing Origin

Brand reputation and country of origin also influence cost. U.S.-made desks, especially those from recognized commercial office furniture manufacturers, may come at a premium but offer stronger warranties, better quality control, and shorter lead times. Internationally manufactured desks might be more cost-effective but could vary in quality and have longer delivery windows.

Additionally, some brands are known for their quality and have a reputation as being a premium brand, so the name itself could increase the price. On the other hand, there are brands designed for the consumer who is on a budget and create high quality office desks designed for such a consumer.

Functionality and Features

Office desks with integrated cable management, adjustable height mechanisms, built-in drawers or filing cabinets, or modular components command higher prices. Sit-stand desks, in particular, can range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand, depending on the motor type, memory presets, and materials used.

Additionally, desks designed for specific industries—like reception desks, conference tables, or benching workstations—may include industry-specific features that impact the price point.

Assembly and Installation Requirements

Pre-assembled office desks often cost more upfront but save on labor. Flat-pack desks might be cheaper but could incur additional costs if professional installation is needed—especially for complex setups in large offices.

U Shaped Desk $1400.00

Bow Front Desk with Credenza Desk and Hutch $1775.00

Bow Front Desk Shell $1335.00

U Shaped Desk with Glass Modesty Panel $1500.00

Bow Front U Shape Desk with Drawers $2140.00

Bow Front U Shaped Desk with Hutch $1305.00

U Shaped Office Desk with Hutch $1730.00

Bow Front L Shaped Desk $1240.00

Final Thoughts

When it comes to selecting the right office desk for your business, it can become a daunting task. That is why Madison Liquidators has a team of dedicated professionals that are trained to assist in the selection. Our team can offer assistance with everything from budgeting to scheduling. Not only that but they can provide you with some excellent options from the inventory. We offer AutoCAD services to prove the layout will fit within the office space; this gives the purchaser peace of mind and takes out all the guess work from the purchase.

Ready to find the perfect desk for your space? Call our team at 888-831-1012 or visit us online to explore options, request a layout consultation, or speak with a furniture expert today.

Let us take the guesswork out of office furniture—so you can focus on what matters most.