Buying the Ideal Computer Desk for your Home Office

It's very, very rare to find a home office that doesn't have a computer of some kind. The use of word-processing programs and Internet access alone has become so widespread that you now expect to find computers everywhere and especially in a home office. A computer desk is an important piece of furniture for any home office as it's going to form the cornerstone of your working environment. Here's some tips for the next time you go shopping for a computer desk.

A height adjustable desk is the pinnacle of computer desks for your office. Why? Because we all come in different shapes and sizes and one desk generally doesn't fit all. Having a desk that's the wrong height can make working on it an absolute nightmare. Not only that but it can lead to bad posture while working which in turn can lead to ongoing back problems. If you can't find a height adjustable desk then make sure you have more than ample leg room underneath the desk; your legs should not be cramped or restricted in any way.

Some computer desks come with a sliding tray for your keyboard and mouse. These are ideal when you're working with limited space but just make sure that your keyboard is between 28 and 30 inches above the floor. Any lower than that and you're going to wind up slumped over your keyboard whilst typing which is going to lead to back problems and, potentially, repetitive strain injury (RSI).

Every computer obviously has a monitor of some kind and the height the monitor is placed at whilst you're working is equally important. Your desk should be set up such a way that the upper edge of the monitor is directly at eye level with your seated position. This will prevent you looking upwards or downwards while you work. Most of the new LCD monitors (flatscreen) are height adjustable so getting this level right shouldn't be a problem with this type of screen; most new computers are only sold with flatscreen monitors anyway.

The monitor also needs to be a suitable distance from your eyes to prevent eye strain. How do you measure this? Simply sit upright in your office chair and stretch your arm outwards. The screen should be positioned at the far end of your reach i.e. you should be just about able to touch the screen with your fingertips.

Another key point with a good computer desk is storage space. There's nothing more annoying than having to stop what you're doing and go searching for a stapler or notepad. Your desk should have at least one reasonably large drawer for storing these items in ; more storage is always better.

Last but not least is working space. You won't always just be typing at your desk. You may have documents you need to read or sign or just some paperwork that needs filing. Your desk should have enough room for this and more. Many people buy a desk without taking this aspect of working from home into account - you can never have enough space on you desk; more is always better.

Don't take the task of buying your computer desk for granted - it's an essential item in any home office so make sure that you're making the right choice first time around.