Choosing the right surface or top for your standing desk is important for the aesthetics of your space, but did you know that it can also impact its function? Since the tabletop is the part of the desk that you make the most contact with, it is important to choose a surface that works best for the type of work you’ll be carrying out. However, with numerous options available, it can be difficult to determine which material, size and additional features you require. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to consider to choose the best surface/top for your standing desk.
Key Considerations
1. Material
MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard)
MDF, or medium-density fibreboard, is made out of wood fibres that are bound together with resin or wax and subjected to heat and high pressure. After pressing, the boards are cooled to stabilise their dimensions and then trimmed and sanded to create a smooth, uniform finish.
Once fully-laminated, MDF doesn’t contract or expand with temperature like natural wood can. In addition, MDF is lightweight, making it easier to move and set up, and affordable. However, it is more susceptible to moisture damage and often requires multiple layers of lamination to last.
Laminate
High-pressure lamination is a more reliable and long-lasting surface. It is made by fusing together several layers, including a decorative, core and protective layer, and can mimic the appearance of natural materials.
Laminate is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it a practical choice for lots of environments. However, it can still be prone to chipping and peeling over time, particularly with prolonged use. Indeed, while durable, laminate is not as robust as solid wood.
Solid Wood
Solid wood tops are often regarded as the best surface for a standing desk due to their sturdiness and premium finish. You can choose from a range of materials, such as oak, maple and pine, in several different colours - each with a unique, natural grain pattern.
You can expect a solid wood desktop to last for several years. However, keep in mind that solid wood tops can be more expensive and often require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. They are also heavy, making them difficult to move and requiring sturdy support.
Indeed, while durable, solid wood tops can also be more susceptible to scratches and dents depending on your work.
Glass
Glass tops are modern, sleek and simple to clean and maintain. Glass surfaces can also be frosted or tinted for added privacy and style.
However, glass is much more prone to fingerprints, smudge, cracks and smashes, making it less suitable for heavy-duty use or for those with heavy equipment. Glass surfaces are also heavy, making them difficult to move and requiring strong support structures.
Want to try before you buy? We offer free desk top finish samples in a wide range of textures and tones to help you find the perfect surface for your desk. Order yours here, with free next day delivery if you order before 3pm.
2. Size
The size of your desk surface should be determined by your workspace and specific needs. Standard sizes typically range from 24 x 48 inches to 30 x 60 inches, which provides enough space for your monitor, keyboard and essentials. However, for those with unique requirements or non-standard spaces, other sizes should be considered.
In smaller rooms, a small desk with a shallower depth — between 18 and 24 inches — can help maximise available space. Read more about the ideal depth of your desk here.
3. Thickness
The thickness of your desk surface also matters. Standard thicknesses range from 1 to 1.5 inches, which is ideal for most use cases. However, thicker desk tops provide greater strength and are less likely to sag or warp over time, especially under heavy loads. If you need to support heavier objects or additional accessories, such as additional monitors, monitor arms and other accessories, a thicker surface, ranging from 1.75 to 2.5 inches, is recommended.
4. Weight
How heavy is the tabletop? And how easily can your standing desk frame support it during the lifting motion? Make sure that the weight of the surface/top does not exceed the limits of your frame.
Recommendations Based on Use Cases
For Home Offices
Material: Solid wood or laminate.
Size: 24 x 48 to 30 x 60 inches.
Features to Look For: Rounded edges, integrated cable management.
Solid wood is a versatile choice for most home offices. A moderate size is ideal for most setups, and features like cable management and rounded edges can enhance the comfort and organisation of your desk.
For Professional Offices
Material: Solid wood, veneer, or laminate, depending on budget.
Size: Custom sizes to fit office layout.
Features: Durable, attractive finish, integrated cable management.
Professional offices often require more durable surfaces and storage, depending on the nature of the work.
For Creative Studios & Workshops
Material: Solid wood, MDF or laminate if you’re on a budget.
Size: Larger surfaces, e.g., 30 x 72 inches.
Features: Smooth, matte finish, and scratch and stain-resistant.
Creative studios often need larger surfaces to accommodate various equipment and projects.
Additional Features to Consider
- Cable Management: Integrated cable management systems can help organise your wires.
- Adjustability: Ensure the desk surface is compatible with height-adjustable desk frames to accommodate both standing and sitting positions.
- Edge Treatments: Rounded or bevelled edges can help to prevent wrist strain and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
- Finish: UV-coated or high-pressure laminate finishes can add extra protection against scratches and stains, extending the life of your desk surface.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surface for your standing desk not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also significantly impacts its function. Consider the unique benefits and drawbacks of each type of material, as well as factors like size, thickness, and weight, to ensure the desk meets your specific needs.
At Ergo Desks, we offer free desk top finish samples in a wide range of textures and tones to help you find the perfect surface for your desk. Order yours here, with free next day delivery if you order before 3pm.
Looking for a standing desk for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of standing desks, available for next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm. Our desks come with a 7 year warranty, 30 day risk free return, as well as access to a UK-based customer service team to answer any questions that you might have.
Otherwise, our desk blog provides more useful tips on working from home, such as our top WFH essentials and how to set up your home office for success.
Feel free to contact us with any questions, with the handy live chat feature on our site, or via email at info@ergodesks.co.uk.
