Creating an optimal gaming desk setup involves considering several key features such as cable management, monitor placement, gaming peripherals (keyboard and mouse), and ergonomic considerations. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you set up your ideal gaming desk.
1. Desk and Chair Selection
Look for a desk with features such as a wide surface area to accommodate your gaming equipment, monitor(s) and other peripherals, sufficient legroom, and a sturdy construction to support the weight of your gaming equipment.
Consider desks with built-in cable management features, such as grommet holes or routing channels, to help keep your cables organised and out of the way.
Opt for a sturdy and adjustable chair that offers proper lumbar support and promotes good posture during long gaming sessions. When selecting a chair, prioritise ergonomic features like adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests. Look for chairs made specifically for gamers, as they often offer additional features such as adjustable backrests and neck support.
2. Cable Management
Keep your cables organised and untangled to maintain a clean and clutter-free desk. Use cable clips, adhesive cable holders, or cable spines to secure your cables to the underside of the desk or along the edges. This will allow you to route and hide cables effectively.
You can also use cable ties or Velcro straps to bundle and secure cables together, preventing them from tangling or obstructing movement, and making it easier to clean your desk.
Consider using a cable management box or desk-mounted cable tray to gather and hide excess cables and power strips.
You can even label your cables or use coloured cable ties to identify them easily when needed.
3. Monitor Placement
Position your monitor(s) directly in front of you at eye level. This reduces strain on your neck and helps maintain a comfortable viewing angle. Consider using a stand or wall mount to adjust the height and tilt of your display(s) for optimal viewing angles.
If you have multiple monitors, align them at a slight inward angle to create a more immersive experience. Ensure that the edges of the monitors are at the same height to prevent visual discrepancies.
Use monitor arms or stands to adjust the height, tilt, and rotation of your displays for optimal ergonomics and viewing angles. You can choose from dual or single monitor arms depending on how many screens you have.
4. Keyboard and Mouse Options
Choose a gaming keyboard that suits your preferences. Mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers due to their tactile feedback and durability. Mechanical keyboards are also available in different switch types, with each offering a unique typing experience.
Consider switches like Cherry MX Red, Blue or Brown based on your preferences for tactile feedback and noise levels, and features like customisable RGB lighting, programmable macros, and multimedia keys.
For the mouse, select a gaming mouse with a high DPI (dots per inch) for precise tracking. Gaming mice come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different grip styles (palm, claw, or fingertip). Choose one that fits your hand comfortably and has a high-precision sensor for accurate tracking. You should consider a variety of adjustable weights, and ergonomic designs that fit your grip style. Some keyboards and mice offer programmable keys and buttons, allowing you to assign macros or shortcuts for in-game actions. Customise these to streamline your gaming experience.
5. Ergonomics
Maintain a comfortable and ergonomic posture to minimise strain on your body during long gaming sessions. Ensure you have an ergonomic chair such as the Curvo Ergonomic Chair and position your chair at a height that allows your feet to rest flat on the ground, and your knees should be at a 90-degree angle. Use a footrest if necessary.
Keep your elbows close to your body, forming a 90-degree angle while using the keyboard and mouse. Avoid excessive reaching or stretching. Consider using a wrist rest pad for added comfort and to reduce strain on your wrists during extended gaming sessions and reduce the risk of strain or repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).
Take regular breaks to stretch, walk around, and rest your eyes to prevent fatigue and promote good blood circulation.
6. Lighting and Ambiance
Enhance the gaming atmosphere by incorporating LED light strips or RGB components behind your desk or monitor to create ambient lighting that matches your gaming setup or mood.
You should adjust the lighting to create an immersive gaming environment without causing eye strain. Avoid excessive brightness or glare by adjusting the brightness and colour temperature of your monitor to reduce eye strain. Consider using software or hardware solutions that minimise blue light emission.
7. Desk Accessories
Invest in a desk mat or mousepad with a large surface area to provide a smooth and comfortable surface for your mouse and keyboard.
Use a headphone stand or mount to keep your headphones organised and easily accessible. Consider adding a USB hub or docking station to expand the number of available USB ports for connecting your gaming peripherals and charging devices.
8. Sound System
If you enjoy immersive audio, consider investing in a quality sound system or gaming headphones with virtual surround sound capabilities.
Many higher-end gaming headsets offer built-in simulated surround sound. These headsets usually connect to your PC or console over USB, and configure as a surround-capable device. You might need to install a companion app to enable the surround feature, but this should be simple.
Alternatively, you can position your speakers or headphones strategically to create a balanced and immersive audio experience.
For stereo speakers, position them in a triangle with the listener. The two speakers and the listener should form an equilateral triangle for balanced sound. Having the speakers at ear level is ideal, and keep them away from walls to prevent sound reflections.
9. Personalisation and Aesthetics
Customise your gaming desk setup to reflect your personal style. Choose a colour scheme, theme, or branding that resonates with you. You can incorporate RGB lighting into your peripherals, monitor, or desk setup to add a vibrant and dynamic visual element.
Also consider using cable sleeves or patterned cable ties to add a touch of style to your cable management.
10. Additional Considerations
Invest in a quality headset with a built-in microphone for clear communication with teammates and immersive audio experience.
Consider adding a secondary display or laptop stand to have quick access to chat programs, streaming software, or game guides without interrupting your gameplay.
Place additional storage solutions, like shelves or drawers, near your desk to keep your gaming accessories, controllers, and other items organised and easily accessible.
Consider a monitor arm or laptop stand to position a secondary display or laptop alongside your primary monitor. This allows you to monitor chat programs, stream management tools, or gameplay guides without interrupting your gaming.
You could also add cable management tray or rack under your desk to store power strips, adapters, and excess cables, keeping them off the floor and out of sight.
Finally, personalise your gaming desk setup with decorations, posters, or gaming-themed artwork to create a visually appealing gaming environment.
What Type of Desk Is Best Suited to Gaming?
When it comes to choosing a desk for a gaming setup, there are a few factors to consider, and we will do this in relation to the headings above:
- Size and Surface Area: Opt for a desk with ample surface area to accommodate your gaming equipment, including your monitor(s), keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals. Consider the dimensions of your room and the available space to ensure the desk fits comfortably without feeling cramped. You could consider the Atlas Mini Bluetooth® Standing Desk which features an intelligent Bluetooth controlled operating system, with adjustable anti-collision settings – this desk is perfect for small spaces like bedrooms and small offices. However if you are looking for something bigger and your space is not an issue the Atlas Bluetooth® Standing Desk with its surface area of 180cm by 80cm is perfect for a gaming setup while also maintaining the Bluetooth connection. Learn more about the benefits of a standing desk for gaming here, or read our full review of the Atlas.
- Sturdiness and Durability: Gaming setups often involve heavy and expensive equipment. Look for a desk that is sturdy and can support the weight of your gaming gear without wobbling or compromising stability. Materials like solid wood, metal, or high-quality engineered wood tend to be more durable options.
- Cable Management Features: A desk with built-in cable management features, such as grommet holes, routing channels, or hidden compartments, can help keep your cables organised and prevent them from tangling or cluttering the workspace. This feature contributes to a cleaner and more streamlined desk setup.
- Ergonomic Design: Consider a desk that promotes good ergonomics. Look for adjustable height options to ensure you can set the desk at a comfortable level that aligns with your chair's height. Ergonomic desks often have curved or contoured edges to provide better forearm support while typing or gaming. Find out more about our full range of standing desks.
- Storage and Organisation: Depending on your storage needs, consider a desk with built-in storage options like drawers, shelves, or compartments. These can be useful for organising gaming accessories, controllers, or other items, keeping them within reach but neatly organised. You can also buy separate drawers which fit under your desk if built in options are not available – the Artemis Drawers or Zeus Under Desk Drawers are perfect for this.
- Aesthetics: Choose a desk that aligns with your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your gaming setup. Desks are available in various designs, finishes, and colours, allowing you to find one that complements your desired look and creates a visually appealing gaming environment. Ultimately, the best type of desk for a gaming setup depends on your specific needs, preferences, and available space. Consider a balance between functionality, durability, cable management, and aesthetics to find the desk that best suits your requirements.
Conclusion
Remember, while it's essential to create an optimal gaming desk setup, it should also be a reflection of your personal preferences and comfort. The key to an optimal gaming desk setup is personalisation and expressing your own style.
Experiment with different arrangements and setups to find what works best for you, with your gaming style and preferences in mind. Regularly assess and adjust your setup to ensure it remains comfortable and ergonomic for long gaming sessions.
Looking for a standing desk or ergonomic accessories 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 blog provides more useful tips on using a standing desk for a more balanced lifestyle. 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.
Date Published: August 16, 2023
Last Updated: November 20, 2023
