The laptop revolutionized how we use the internet and consume information. It provides millions with a powerful computer that is portable and affordable. But don’t be fooled by the name laptop. Many people have found that using this exceptional device on their laps is uncomfortable and even dangerous. To make the most of your laptop, we encourage you to get the best lap desk.
Lap desks are designed to make the use of laptops more comfortable. You can also use them to write, read, and even eat among other activities. But there are so many of these products on the market it is confusing to choose a quality brand.
That’s why you need to read lap desk reviews to select a product that combines comfort with functionality. We also included a buying guide that discusses the features and specifications of lap desks. Read on to learn everything you need to buy lap desks with confidence.
Table of Contents
Best Lap Desks
1. Honey-Can-Do TBL-06321 Portable Laptop Lap Desk
This beautiful lap desk from Honey Can Do is lightweight, oversized and comfortable to use. It is suitable for students, persons with limited mobility, and travelers who need to work on the go.
This sturdy lap desk is made from MFD, making it durable and long-lasting. At over 23 inches long and 15.75 inches wide, it can easily accommodate the largest laptops. This laptop desk is designed for portability. You can stuff it in your bag or even carry it in your hand with the built-in handle.
The durable MFD surface material is low maintenance, easy to clean, and handles laptop heat well. This lap desk comes with a foam pad for comfort during use. A cord protector prevents your laptop cable from tangles. This product offers a functional surface for working on the bed, sofa, and even on train tables.
2. Mavo Craft Folding Lap Desk
This lap desk has an ingenious design that makes it worth far more than its price. It can serve as a laptop stand, breakfast table, portable office desk, workstation, and so much more. Despite its small dimensions, this folding desk comes with an extra storage space beneath the surface. You can use it for keeping your stationery, stapler, calculator and other miscellaneous items.
This lap desk is compatible with laptops of 17.5 inches and below. Its dynamic design allows you to fold the legs flat, making it easy to store and transport in your bag. With this folding construction, you will have no problem moving around with this desk. It ideal for working on the go or at home. This durable product provides seven pounds of storage space and folding legs that transform it into a miniature table. It is lightweight, spacious, functional, and comfortable.
3. Mind Reader LTADJUST-BLK Adjustable Portable 8 Position Lap Top Desk
This versatile lap desk is ideal for working on your laptop, tablet, reading, or drawing. You can adjust the desk in eight different positions for optimal viewing and hands-free use. It comes with an easy pop up lip that prevents your device from slipping off the desk surface.
This superb desk features a compact and portable design to allow you to take it on trips. The two overstuffed double bolster cushions underneath offer comfort and stability. This makes it ideal for use on your lap and other surfaces.
This laptop desk has enough surface area to support computers and tablets up to 15.6 inches. It has a smooth hard surface which makes it low maintenance and easy to clean. You can also fold it for easy and quick storage. Whether you are reading, browsing, or traveling, this eight position lap desk delivers value for money.
4. Sofia + Sam Oversized Memory Foam Lap Desk
This Sofia + Sam lap desk has received positive reviews from users for reliable performance. At 21.5 inches long and 14.5 inches wide, this desk can easily accommodate laptops 17 inches and below.
The desk features a memory foam cushion which conforms to the shape of your lap for optimal comfort. There is a memory foam wrist rest which also prevents your laptop from slipping off the desk.
This oversized laptop desk comes with a handle for portability. It features a beautiful and high-quality wood grain top for typing, reading, and other activities. The smooth finish allows adequate ventilation for your laptop to prevent overheating.
There are different versions of this lap desk. The base model comes with enough space for a laptop and mouse. You can opt for a higher model with a USB cutout for lights, external keyboards and compatible devices.
5. HUANUO Lap Desk
This lap desk from HUANUO combines aesthetics with comfort and functionality. Whether you want to read, type, or eat, the desk offers every feature you need to maximize your comfort.
The lap desk has a textured surface to hold the laptop in place. It comes with a tablet holder, a phone holder, and a penholder for improved productivity. This lap desk comes with dual bolster cushions for support, stability, and comfort. The wooden panel is environmentally friendly and visually appealing.
The bolster cushions conform to your lap and incline to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. There is a leather mouse pad for improved efficiency and a handle that makes it portable.
The wrist pad makes using the desk more comfortable. There is also an anti-skid baffle to prevent your laptop from slipping off the desk. This lightweight lap desk will enhance your ability to work on the go.
6. LapGear Home Office Lap Desk
LapGear really excels at designing and creating high quality, functional and aesthetic products for laptop users. This lap desk targets people who work from home such as freelancers and independent contractors. It comes with a minimalist design and uses environmentally friendly materials.
This product has a surface area that can accommodate laptops of 15.6 inches although it is 21.1 inches long. The remaining space is reserved for a smooth mouse pad for improved efficiency. It also comes with a phone slot that holds your device vertically so you can monitor notifications.
Beneath the sturdy surface are dual bolster cushions. These comfortable cushions conform to your lap, providing stability and support while working on your device. The smooth flat surface enhances airflow around your laptop, preventing the device from overheating. Whether on the bed or the sofa, this lap desk allows you to become one with your laptop.
Lap Desk Buying Guide
There are hundreds of elegant and functionally advanced lap desks and similar products on the market. But not all will deliver the results you need. Some will be made from inferior materials. Others may lack the surface area to accommodate your laptop.
You may even find one with the right size and materials but little to no adjustability. This makes it essential to know the features and specifications to check in lap desks.
Here is a detailed lap desk buying guide to help you select the best product for your needs.
11 Considerations When Buying a Lap Desk
Before investing in a lap desk, remember to consider these factors:
Size
The most important question to ask when buying a laptop desk is whether it is the right size. I once bought a laptop desk that turned out to be oversized. The product could support a laptop of 17 inches but it was too long to place on a small table.
So you have to consider not only the size of your laptop but the dimensions of your lap. If your lap is big, you may have no problem with any lap desk size. However, a person with a small lap may find a larger desk disproportionate.
You also need to consider other surfaces you intend to place the product. It’s important for the desk to be compatible with your laptop and any other surface you plan to place it.
Meanwhile, here is a selection of the best home office desk to improve your productivity.Cushioning
The next biggest thing to consider when shopping for lap desks is the cushioning. You need a quality and comfortable padding beneath the surface. Otherwise, using the laptop desk will still feel like placing your laptop on the lap or worse.
The top brands use premium quality memory foams as cushioning for their lap desks. This conforms to your lap’s contours and provides adequate stability and comfort. Some use memory foam but the cushioning is too thin to provide any meaningful comfort.
Check that the cushion material is high quality and thick enough to shield your legs from the laptop heat.
Weight
The most popular lap desks are lightweight. This is important for many reasons.
Less weight makes the product easy to store and carry along with you. It also makes it less of a burden on your lap. For the sake of practicality, ease of use, and functionality, get a lightweight but high quality lap desk.Portability
This is also essential for the practicality of lap desks. A quality and well-designed lap desk should be lightweight, sturdy, and fit into your bag.
It should not weigh you down during commutes or be too large to fit into a backpack. If you intend to carry your lap desk around, you want it to have a quality handle and be light.
Material
The most important parts of a lap desk are the surface and the cushion. You want a model that has a smooth surface that allows adequate airflow and heat dissipation.
The cushion should be firm, conforming, comfortable, and long-lasting. It is better if the cushion is removable and washable.
Plastic and wood seem to work best for the surface. However, plastic may not last long and wood may retain excess heat.
Some brands use metal, but that can store excess heat and make it difficult to use the desk for extended periods. Whatever you do, buy a product that is durable, easy to use, and low maintenance.
Ventilation
Ventilation is an important factor when buying lap desks because laptops generate a lot of heat. Some lap desks have a coating that prevents them from overheating. Others are designed to improve airflow around your computer.
In some cases, the desk may feature ventilation holes to allow for more heat dissipation and cooling. Consider a well-ventilated lap desk if your laptop generates a lot of heat.Design
Lap desks come in various designs to suit a wide range of functions. Some are designed for use only on your lap. Others come with extendable feet to increase their height.
In some models, there is a dual-bolster cushion that creates an angled position. These are ideal for use on your lap.
The adjustable models are ideal for working on the table, the floor, and many other surfaces. However, stability may reduce when you extend the desk to the maximum height. These may not be ideal for use on uneven surfaces like your mattress or sofa.
You want to buy a lap desk with excellent ergonomics to improve comfort and usability. Consider how the design will affect the way you use the lap desk before selecting a model.
Versatility
Most of the popular lap desks offer exceptional versatility. They are ideal for laptops, books, reading, writing, drawing, and even eating. Some are perfect product for the office, home, commuting, and traveling.
To get maximum value for money, buy a model that offers optimal utility in any location or situation.Eco-Friendliness
These days, manufacturers are conscious of their impact on the environment. If you also want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider buying a lap desk from an environment-conscious company.
Users Reviews
One of the best ways to know if a product works as advertised is to read customer reviews. Check the percentage of five star reviews compared to other levels.
Experience shows that the most factual and honest reviewers give a three-star rating. For best results, look for the feedback of long-term users.
Price
Price is not a deal breaker when buying lap desks. Most brands are affordable, especially if you don’t need features like a mouse pad, phone holder, and USB port. If these accessories are essential to your activities, it is best to spend the extra money to enjoy maximum utility from your purchase.
10 Important Lap Desk Features & Specs
Here are essential features and specifications to check before buying a lap desk:
Handle
A quality lap desk will come with a durable handle. This is important for portability.
Read customer reviews about the weight and the durability of the handle. Go for a model that is easy to carry around so you can work on the move.Heat Resistance
Some manufacturers treat their lap desks with a coating that reduces heat. This is excellent for your comfort and longevity of the computer.
Heat weakens the electronic components in your laptop and kills your battery prematurely. So it’s in your best interest to invest in a product that will prevent your computer from overheating.
Adjustability
Adjustability can be in the form of the viewing angle or height. If you intend to type for long periods on your lap desk, buy a model with angle adjustability. That will allow you to use the computer in comfort without straining your neck and shoulders.
If you want to use the desk on different surfaces, consider one with height adjustability. However, we advise you to look for a model that will not lose stability when you extend the height.
Mouse Pad
Many lap desks have dedicated mouse pads. If you are a fan of the mouse, this can improve your productivity and efficiency.In most cases, the mouse pad will reduce the actual surface area for your computer. So check that the desk can accommodate your laptop and the mouse simultaneously.
USB Port
Lap desks can also have USB ports. The port may be powered by batteries or have a separate power outlet.
You can use this feature to charge phones, power adjustable lighting, and other compatible devices. But this may likely increase the cost of the product and reduce the surface area for your computer.Anti-Skid Baffle
It is important for your lap desk to have an anti-skid feature. This will prevent your computer or any item you place on the desk from slipping off.
Most manufacturers use the wrist pad for this purpose. The pad provides a soft surface to rest your wrist. It also serves as a barrier to hold the item on the desk in place.
Phone Holder
Some lap desks have a cutout to hold your phone vertically. If you like to monitor your social media and email notifications, this is an excellent feature.
Penholder
If you intend to write on your laptop desk, consider one with a penholder. This will make it easier to switch from reading to writing, saving you time and effort.
Built-in Light
In a few lap desk models, there is an inbuilt light to allow you to work in low visibility conditions. If you prefer working at night, this is a great feature to improve productivity. It can be a source of limited illumination, especially of switching the lights on will disturb other people.
Storage
Multipurpose lap desks come with storage. For example, the Mavo Craft folding lap desk offers up to seven pounds of storage. This means the product can double as a small bag for office supplies and other essentials.
Some models even double as a laptop carrier. This may increase the desk’s overall weight but is an excellent feature if you need the space.
Many lap desks have dedicated mouse pads. If you are a fan of the mouse, this can improve your productivity and efficiency.Benefits of Using a Lap Desk
Despite their name, laptops are not ideal for use on your lap. They can be heavy and generate a lot of heat and vibrations that may pose health risks.
7 Reasons to Consider the Use of a Laptop Lap Desk
This is the main reason for the invention of lap desks. But these portable desks provide many more benefits. Here are some benefits of using a lap desk:
Improves Ergonomics
Lap desks feature ergonomic designs that increase your productivity, efficiency, and comfort while using your laptop. These products have features that allow you to use your laptop for extended hours in comfort. They prevent exposure to the laptop’s heat or straining your neck muscles.
This is because a lap desk provides a platform to place your computer instead of your body. The lap desk also allows you to position the computer screen at eye level. This eliminates the need to raise your neck for extended periods.
With lap desks, you won’t need to stack your textbooks or photo albums to raise your laptop to a comfortable viewing angle. You may also want to consider choosing an ergonomic office chair to improve your working conditions and posture.
Adjustability
If you’ve spent a lot of time typing on conventional office desks, you will know the design is not ideal for laptops. The best platforms for using a laptop need to be angle, height, and distance adjustable. A lap desk provides all these features and more.
Most lap desks are angled in a way that lifts the screen higher than the keyboard part. This improves screen visibility and makes typing less strenuous. If you want to reduce the strain of viewing your computer screen and typing for extended periods, get an adjustable lap desk.
Enhances Ventilation
Lap desks can improve your computer’s longevity by promoting airflow around the device. Laptops can become hot after long use or during demanding tasks. Without adequate ventilation, the heat can lower the useful life of the electronic components and the battery.
A lap desk elevates your laptop to improve airflow and some even feature ventilation holes to prevent overheating. They also protect your body from scalding.
Improves Organization
With the many cutouts and storage space that come with lap desks, these products can help you reduce clutter. There are lap desks that have pen holders, phone holders, and cavernous interiors for office supplies.
If you need more space, some models have enough room for a laptop, turning them into a carrier bag. Most manufacturers include a mouse pad and some have USB ports to make your workstation neat and organized.
Lap desks can also reduce cable tangling. There are models that allow you to organize charger and USB cables efficiently to keep your space clutter free.
Portability
You will find quality lap desks that weigh only three pounds and less. Most also come with in-built handles and are lightweight enough to carry in a small bag.
This portability makes them a practical item for most people, including students, busy executives, and digital nomads.Versatile
Another benefit of lap desks is that they can do more than provide a slip-free surface for your laptop. Most of these products are ideal for reading, writing, crafts, drawing, and more.
You can also use them while sitting, on a sofa, in the bus, on the bed, the tram, and the beach. Whatever your lifestyle, a well-designed lap desk will fit in perfectly and improve your productivity.
Improves Productivity
All the aforementioned benefits point to one thing: increased productivity. Whether you are a professional or student, a lap desk gives you more comfort when using a laptop.
It reduces strain on your neck and eyes, provides a portable platform, and allows you to work anywhere you like. If you like to work on the go or in a relaxed mood, a lap desk can improve your productivity.
You may also want to check our recliner buying guide for high-quality products for working in comfort.
What Do We Know About the Health Effects of Laptops?
Laptops are exceptional for their convenience and portability. Despite the ubiquitous presence of smartphones and tablets, many people still find the laptop indispensable.
However, there are serious health issues related to how we use laptops. One is with ergonomics and the other concerns the heat and EMF waves the device emits.
Biggest Concerns Regarding Laptop Use
Poor Ergonomic Design
The first major health issue with laptops is that they have poor ergonomics. Unlike desktop computers, you cannot adjust the position of a laptop’s monitor or keyboard. This makes the device unsuitable if you are working on a flat surface for extended periods.
You may have to strain your neck to get a good viewing angle of the screen. Users also strain their wrists, hands, and shoulders while typing because of the keyboard’s rigidity. This is not an ideal situation for many people. Extended use of a laptop can cause excessive eye strain. It can also impair your posture and contribute to low back issues.
This is why you should consider buying a quality lap desk and an ergonomic office chair. These products provide adjustability. They will allow you to work with your laptop without wrecking your back and productivity.
Heat and Radio EMF Emission
The other big issue with laptops is that they produce immense heat and radio waves. If you place a laptop on your lap for extended periods, the heat will cause discomfort and may hamper productivity.
Placing the laptop directly on your lap for too long may also cause skin burns and dermatitis. But we believe it’s unlikely a person will leave a scalding laptop on their lap for that long.
Some people say that the EMF waves from laptops can cause health issues. But there is insufficient empirical data to support this claim. However, it is important to take measures to reduce exposure to the heat and electromagnetic waves from laptops.
A lap desk and a good ergonomic chair can help you work comfortably on a laptop. Also, you want to sit with the correct posture when using laptops. Try to avoid sitting in the same position for long periods. Stand up after about 30 minutes for light exercises to increase circulation and warm your muscles.
3 Reasons You Should NOT Place Your Laptop on Your Lap
A laptop might be portable, but it doesn’t belong on your lap. The heat and emissions from the device can create avoidable discomfort and may contribute to health problems. Here are three reasons to avoid placing a laptop on your lap:
May Harm Male Fertility
There are speculations that placing laptops on the lap for long periods can reduce male fertility. This is largely because of the effect of the heat and EMF from laptops on male sperm.
The results of an American Society for Reproductive Medicine study suggests that a laptop connected to a wireless network may decrease male fertility if placed on the lap near the testes.
May Contribute to Skin Disorders
Two Swiss scientists at the University Hospital Basel conducted a study that suggests the heat of laptops can contribute to skin problems. The researchers report that exposure to the heat from laptops can cause skin inflammation.
If left untreated, prolonged skin inflammation can lead to more severe dermal issues.Contributes to Posture and Back Problems
The poor ergonomics of laptops and their portability means people can use them almost anywhere. However, this can strain the spine, back, and neck if you hunch over the device for long periods.
You can avoid many of these problems with a portable lap desk and an ergonomic chair. You may also want to check these standing desk reviews to boost your comfort and productivity.
Can Using a Laptop Make You Infertile?
There has been a lot of speculation about laptops making people become infertile. The truth, however, is that the body of scientific evidence to support this claim is weak.
For females, extended exposure to the heat and emissions of a laptop will not cause any disruptions to their reproductive abilities. This is because the woman’s reproductive organs are tucked deep inside her body. The ovary is protected by layers of tissue, making it impervious to any potential harmful effect of a laptop.
For males, the only link between laptop use and fertility is related to sperm motility. The male’s testes, i.e., the organ that produces the sperm is located outside of the body. This keeps the sperm at an ideal temperature lower than the rest of the body.
Placing the laptop on your lap close to the testes may raise the temperature within the organ. Some researchers speculate that this may damage the sperm cells and reduce their ability to move.
The bottom line is there isn’t enough evidence to test and verify these speculations. But it is better to take precautions to prevent any harmful effect on your reproductive abilities. Get a proper lap desk to use your laptop on the go.
Tips to Support Your Body While Using a Laptop
Here are tips to support your body while using a laptop:
- Sit in a comfortable chair that offers adequate back and lumbar support. If you don’t have an ergonomic chair, consider buying a lumbar support pillow to prevent back pain and posture issues.
- Sit with your back firmly against a wall while using a laptop on the floor.
- Sit up straight while typing on a laptop.
- Adjust the screen to an angle that prevents you from straining your neck.
- Avoid placing the laptop on your lap for too long. The weight can reduce circulation to your legs and the heat can scald your skin. For comfort, consider buying a lap desk.
- Support your back with pillows while using a laptop on a bed or sofa. And try not to slouch.
- Change your position after every 30 minutes. You can walk around, stretch, and do pushups to boost circulation and relax your muscles.
- Use the blue light filter function of your laptop or reduce the intensity of the display to reduce eyestrain.
Increase the font size to prevent eyestrain. - Blink often to keep your eyeballs wet and free of irritation.
- Avoid twisting your body when moving. Rather, move your whole body to avoid spine misalignment.
- Don’t twist your hands or wrists while typing on a laptop. Keep the keyboard slightly inclined to avoid straining your wrists.
Check also factors to consider when buying a laptop stand for more laptop ergonomics tips.
FAQs
Here are commonly asked questions regarding lap desks:
- Can children use lap desks?
Yes, your kids or younger sibling can use lap desks for various activities. They can use it for writing, playing games, and every other activity their adults perform on the item. - What prevents a laptop from falling off a lap desk?
Lap desks have a fold-out tab or wrist pad that prevents your device from falling off. Some models use a foam for this while others can be wood, plastic, or metal. - Are adjustable lap desks better than non-adjustable models?
It depends on your preference. Both products are designed to serve different functions. If you don’t need the extra height, go for the non-adjustable models.
Some people prefer the lower versions because of the instability of the height-adjustable models. But there are accessories to make them more stable. - Are lap desks electrically powered?
No, most do not require electricity. However, some models have batteries to power their USB ports. Manufacturers may also include a fan that runs on your laptop’s USB port.
Wrap Up
Laptops are fun to use and provide almost unlimited versatility. But many people unconsciously weaken their back and posture through the use of laptops. This is because these devices lack the ergonomics of desktop computers. You can’t adjust a laptop’s keyboard or screen like you do a desktop monitor or keyboard. The best lap desk can provide improved ergonomics and help you get more value from your portable PC.
But before you order or head to the shop, read our lap desk reviews. These reviews show you the top brands on the market that have won the admiration of buyers. You will also know the vital questions to ask so you can make an informed purchase. Plus, several features and specifications to check in a lap desk.
That’s why we spent a lot of time and effort to research the best products. We hope this detailed buying guide will help you achieve more productivity with your laptop.