Your Quick Guide To Buying PC Gaming Desks 2021

The perfect PC Gaming Desks can make a world’s difference for any gamer’s gaming setup. While climbing up to the leaderboards and winning every obstacle is entirely based on your skills alone, a gaming desk definitely enhances the overall atmosphere of your gaming nook. In simpler terms, it just puts you in the right mood.

So in this quick guide to buying PC gaming desks, I’ll help you out to know everything you need about this particular gaming furniture. From the sizes, the different shapes and designs, price ranges, and so much more. All you need to do is to keep on reading.

Already know what you need? Then check out our top recommendations of the best gaming desks of 2021 here.

Why Do You Need A Gaming Desk?

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Before we get into the specifications of a gaming desk, let’s answer the question on everyone’s mind: Why do I need a gaming desk?

Sure, some of you might be thinking that a traditional home office desk will do. This is completely fine and some of these standard desks work, but gaming desks are an altogether different breed. They are crafted by manufacturers with gamers specifically in mind.

These types of desks are made to hold all your gaming peripherals and accessories with integrated slots and extra compartments or drawers. Aside from that, most gaming desks you will find in the market nowadays come with ergonomic functions as well.

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Some offer height adjustability settings so you can go from sitting to standing if you prefer to stay active during your gaming sessions. As you already know, I’m a huge fan of keeping everyone in tiptop shape, even during games. Who says you can’t be healthy during a gaming session, right?

There are also some that provide cable management options for your accessories so you don’t have to deal with cables lying spread across your space.

Then there are gaming desks that are true to the gamer aesthetic if you’re into that. These offer eye-catching and flashy designs through unique prints or dazzling RGB lighting effects to further amplify your gaming space and make you feel like a hardcore gamer.

But if you want something more subtle, gaming companies also offer more minimalist designs for our professionals out there.

The list goes on and on. Rather than settling for a plain wooden table, why not invest on a dedicated gaming desk to really complete your setup?

Where Can You Buy A Gaming Desk?

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Generally, there are two ways you can buy a gaming desk: online and through a physical store.

Online buying is a lot more convenient because all you have to do is go to the gaming desk’s official site or Amazon and browse through the products. You add the gaming desk to your cart then click purchase. Now all you need to do is sit back and relax for a few days until your order’s arrival.

Personally, I highly suggest going to a physical store when it comes to buying any piece of furniture in general than online buying. This way, you actually see the gaming desk in person and have a feel on the material, check out its sturdiness and actual size up close.

Physically buying it through a store also highly decreases your chances of returning the desk when it gets delivered to your home. You won’t be disappointed because you already know what to expect.

As someone who likes to online shop, I know all too well the hassle of returning a faulty product or dealing with unresponsive customer support.

But since we are currently in a pandemic, online shopping is a great alternative if you’re unable to go out these days. It’s really up to you where you want to get your gaming desk. Just keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages.

Want to check out PC gaming desks from different brands? Click here for our top recommendations this 2021!

What To Look For In PC Gaming Desks

Now that we have covered the why and the where you’re ready to look for a gaming desk! Here are the things you will need to consider in order to make an informed and wise purchase.

Price Range

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As you would any item you’re looking to buy, you should always consider where your budget lies and your spending limit when it comes to gaming desks.

Fortunately for you, gaming desks come in a wide range of price points. From budget-friendly options to more premium brands. So this means you’re sure to find one that will fit your budget perfectly.

Of course, a cheaper gaming desk doesn’t necessarily mean that it won’t be as good as the pricier ones. While more premium features like height adjustability can come at a cost, you’ll be surprised to find out just how these budget-friendly gaming desks can perform just as well or even better.

Also, not everyone needs these gimmicky or flashy features other more expensive gaming desks offer to their audience. It’s best you list down the things you actually need and want your gaming desk to do instead of impulsively buying the most expensive one.

Though if money is no object to you and you don’t mind splurging, then by all means! Get the one that makes you happiest. But at the end of the day, it’s all about finding the one that caters to your necessities and suits your setup the best.

In addition, setting a budget for the gaming desk you want will also help narrow down your options. This will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed with the countless options of gaming desks currently out in the market.

Size & Weight Capacity

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PC gaming desks come in all shapes and sizes. And it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all. Every gamer out there will have specific needs in what they want in a gaming desk. So it’s best that you find out what you are looking for as well.

First of all, I highly suggest measuring your gaming space. Will you be dedicating a whole room to your gaming space? Will it just be placed in a corner or a small nook? By knowing where the desk will be positioned and how big the space is, you’ll easily figure out what size of the gaming desk you will need.

Thankfully, most gaming companies already include a complete description of their desks’ specifications and dimensions along with their model. Whether it be online or in a physical store, they got you covered.

Aside from knowing the measurements of your gaming space, also consider the number of monitors and accessories you will have for your setup. This will also determine the weight capacity you will require for a gaming desk. More peripherals mean bigger space and higher weight capacity.

If you’re looking for a gaming desk that can handle all your gaming accessories, check out the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk here!

Shape

As I have previously mentioned, gaming desks come in all shapes and forms. So here are the two most common shapes gaming desks tend to sport:

Rectangular

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The rectangular shape is the most classic and standard out of the two shapes of gaming desks I will be mentioning here.

Usually, when you mention tables or desks to anyone, this is the shape they will most likely be thinking of. In most cases, this is the shape everyone goes for. It doesn’t take up a lot of space and it’s pretty straightforward.

L-Shape

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The L-shaped gaming desk is better suited for gamers who require a lot of things for their gaming setup. This type of desk is also versatile as you can make each side of the desk have a different atmosphere.

For professionals, you can make the other side more toned down and subtle, while the other one can scream “hardcore gamer”. It’s completely up to you how you want to maximize the space of this type of desk.

Personally, I prefer this kind of setup. So if you have enough space to spare, I highly recommend going for this one.

Ergonomic Functions

Gaming desks are no longer just made to hold your gaming peripherals, some of them now also come with ergo-friendly features to make sure that you’re getting the most comfort from these products. Here are a few features I suggest that you consider:

Height Adjustability

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Sitting for extended periods of time can really be bad for your health. Studies have proven this and provided ample data on how harmful sitting can be. That’s why I highly recommend looking for gaming desks with height adjustability options so you can get into the habit of standing up while gaming every now and then.

While having this feature comes at a cost, it’s really worth the investment. In the long run, this will benefit you a lot and your health.

Cable Management

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Having multiple cables in your way can be quite frustrating. In addition, seeing so many of them just snaking across your gaming space can be such an eyesore. So finding a gaming desk that offers cable management options can be pretty useful. This way, your desk will look a lot cleaner and organized.

Overall Design

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When it comes to aesthetics, gaming desks can go from subtle to in-your-face designs. Some will sport RGB lighting effects that sync with your accessories, some have graphic prints that are unique to the brand, while other models can have a more subdued appearance.

Whatever you prefer, you’re sure to find one that will suit your taste.

Looking for a gaming desk with flashy and dazzling ARGB lighting? Check out our review of the Cougar MARS 120 here to find exactly what you need!

Conclusion

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Now that we have reached the ending of my buyer’s guide to PC gaming desks, I hope you are now well-equipped with the information you need in order to make a wise purchasing decision.

Whatever gaming desk you end up buying, I hope its one that works for you and meets all your needs perfectly.

Was I able to help you out in buying a gaming desk with my buyer’s guide? Let me know if you have any additional insights or just want to share your experiences in the comments sections below. I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions!

Recommended reading for you:

The Best Gaming Desks 2021: Reign Supreme In Comfort & Style

Best Adjustable Desk Risers 2021: Level Up Your Office

Your Helpful Buyer’s Guide To The Best Standing Desk Converter For 2021

The Top 10 Best Standing Desks 2021: Working From Home Has Never Been This Comfortable!

Best Computer Gaming Chairs For Adults 2021: For Next Level Gaming!

The Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk Review: Your Superior Gaming Desk With LED Lights

The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk Review: Go Big Or Go Home With Your Gaming Setup

The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk Review: Go Big Or Go Home With Your Gaming Setup

A gaming desk is one of the fundamental things you need in order to complete your gaming setup. That’s why today we’ll be taking a closer look at the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk to see if this is the gaming desk best suited for you.

Over the years, more and more companies are releasing specialized peripherals and accessories with gamers in mind. This is all thanks to the rise in popularity of eSports. To those unaware, eSports is a form of competition through the use of video games.

But whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a casual one, you can’t deny that there’s something so appealing when you see a complete gamer’s setup. From the RGB lighting effects, flashy and in-your-face aesthetics, giant monitors, and mechanical keyboards, what’s not to love?

Now, gaming furniture is also on the rise too. From gaming accessories, we have evolved to making furniture that is targeted at gamers out there. Some love it, while some are skeptical over it. Though I think it’s nice that these companies are appreciating what we do and taking gamers seriously enough to create a market for it.

But enough of that, you’re here to find out about the Arena Gaming Desk from Arozzi. So read on to see whether this popular gaming desk is worth your time and money.

Check out where the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk ranks in our list of the Best Gaming Desks 2021 here.

Overview

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To those who are unaware, Arozzi actually released the Arena Gaming Desk some time ago. In fact, it was introduced to the gaming community way back in the latter half of 2016.

Safe to say that the Arena was so positively received that this particular gaming desk still makes it to the top 10 of a lot of reviewers when it comes to the best gaming desks. And that includes me. But what makes it so good exactly?

About The Company

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First, let’s take a brief look at the company behind the Arena Gaming Desk.

Arozzi is a Swedish company that was founded in 2013. Despite being less than a decade old, Arozzi still managed to prove to their competition that they’re a brand to watch out for.

Initially, they were focused on producing top-of-the-line ergonomic gaming chairs that range from beginners to more high-end or upscale models. So whether you’re just starting out, on a budget, or want something more premium, Arozzi will have exactly what you need.

While Arozzi continues to provide us with impressive gaming chairs, they did not neglect other gaming furniture that was slowly taking over the market as well. This also includes other gaming peripherals as well as the main star of this article, the Arena Gaming Desk.

The Arena

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Can I just say though, that the name “Arena” is so fitting for this gaming desk? Because obviously, it’s a beast when it comes to size. Almost as huge and wide as an arena. At the same time, arenas were built for competition which is something you mostly are a part of when you’re gaming. So plus points there, Arozzi.

Anyway, moving on.

At your initial glance, the very first thing you’ll notice is how large this table is. It’s spacious and sturdy enough to accommodate two to three full-sized monitors. Specifically, the Arena has a workable surface area of 5 feet and 3 inches.

In inches, that measures about 63 inches wide plus a depth of 32.28-inches. Overall, that means 14 square feet of desktop!

When it comes to the Arena’s weight capacity, it did not disappoint as well. This gaming desk can easily hold even the heaviest and more robust of setups with its weight capacity of 176 lbs! That weight capacity is also evenly distributed throughout the table.

Apart from its generous surface and amazing weight capacity, the Arena’s overall tabletop is also made of microfiber cloth. In simpler terms, it means that the surface is one big mousepad.

Yes, that means you don’t have to spend extra money on getting a separate mousepad for your mouse. You have the whole table for your mouse to freely move around. What’s more, the microfiber cloth is waterproof and detachable so you can easily remove the top for washing once it gets gritty after a while.

Features & Specifications

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  • Product Dimensions: ‎32.2 x 63 x 31 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: ‎85.5 pounds
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Arozzi
  • Weight Capacity:  176 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: Yes, for up to 10cm only.
  • Cable Management: Yes.
  • Material: Microfiber cloth and metal base.
  • Colors: Black, blue, green. red, and white.
  • Extra Special Features: Waterproof tabletop with a mousepad finish, multiple color variants to choose from.

Here’s a closer look of the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk’s assembly guide.

There’s also a PDF format of the assembly here for those who prefer to read the instruction manual.

If you’d like to check out other brands of gaming desks, click here for our top recommendations of the Best Gaming Desks of 2021.

What We Love About The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk

Now, let’s talk about the things we absolutely loved about the Arena gaming desk.

Spacious Design

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I have probably mentioned this already a few times but its generous surface area is definitely the Arena’s main selling point. Being spacious enough to accommodate up to three monitors and still, you’re left with more space to put any of your accessories and other necessities on the table.

Aside from that, the space below the table is also wide enough that you won’t feel too cramped under there.

Cable Management

As a gamer myself, I am fully aware how annoying it can get to see so many cables just spread out and snaking across your gaming space. It can also be such an accident prone area if you’re a klutz like me.

So I really appreciate Arozzi for including a cable management option for the Arena gaming desk, which can be found below the table’s surface. The Arena actually has 3 cut outs on top of the surface that leads to a basket made of mesh that is tightly held against the underside of the desk top for cable management.

This way, your cables would be hidden or tucked away from anyone’s view.

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The Tabletop’s Finish

As I have previously mentioned, the Arena’s whole tabletop is made of microfiber cloth that acts as a mousepad for your mouse. This is actually one of my favorite things about this gaming desk aside from its generously spacious surface.

Gone are the days where you’ll struggle to move your mousepad around to follow the direction of your mouse’s movements or having to make sure that you are not moving outside the pad’s edges. Instead, you get an interchangeable microfiber desk mat that you can remove to wash whenever it gets dirty.

In terms of washing, the microfiber cloth is pretty low maintenance too. Just throw it in your machine washer at a low temperature then air dry afterwards.

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Another great thing about this finish is that it’s waterproof. So no need to worry about accidental spills here if you’re someone who likes to put your drinks near your gaming space.

In addition, this microfiber desk mat is specially designed to custom fit the curved 14 sq. ft. (1.31 sq. meters) of the Arena gaming desk with an anti-slip rubber bottom to ensure that it stays in place and never moves even during the most rigorous gaming sessions.

Our Least Favorite Thing

Little Height Adjustability

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This is probably the only downside I can think of from the Arena. This desk would have been perfect and actually worth the price if it had better height adjustability.

Though I guess since this particular gaming was released when sit-stand desks were not yet as popular, I can forgive the manufacturers for overlooking such features. After all, when it comes to gaming, the last thing most of you will want is to stand.

So here’s to hoping that Arozzi’s latest releases of gaming desks will finally offer better height adjustability settings and not just up to 3 inches.

Price

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While the Arena has undoubtedly impressive features, I also can’t turn away from the fact that it’s a very expensive piece of furniture. I’m unaware that most gaming desks and chairs do come at a cost and most of them start around the $300 price point but the Arena goes way for more than that.

Being in that certain price range, you would expect a desk that has great height adjusting capabilities already. But alas, the Arena gaming desk has very disappointing height settings which can only go up to 10cm.

While the height adjustment might not be a deal-breaker for some of you, I just find this particular gaming desk to be too expensive to not have the same ergonomic features some gaming desks offer at this price point.

But if you don’t mind the lack of height adjustment and have the money to spare, then you’ll have no problem with using the Arena.

In A Nutshell

Here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with this gaming desk.

Pros

  • Spacious enough to accommodate two to three monitor systems along with other gaming peripherals.
  • Includes cable management.
  • The tabletop or surface has a fabric finish akin to a mousepad which means you don’t need an external mousepad anymore. This also gives you plenty of space to move your mouse around.
  • Can easily carry up to 176 lbs. of weight without wobbling or shaking.
  • Waterproof surface.
  • Impressive sturdiness and durability.

Cons

  • On the pricier side of gaming desks.
  • Little height adjustable settings. It can only be adjusted up to 10cm.

The Final Verdict

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Overall, the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk is an impressive piece of furniture. Is it worth its premium price? It really depends. It’s a large yet simple table that is highly functional and sturdy. You’ll have enough room for any kind of gaming setup you have in mind and then some.

Personally, it would be a lot much better if it had height adjustability settings but aside from that, it’s a solid piece and something really worth considering if you have the extra cash. Highly recommended!

Already own an Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk? Feel free to let me know in the comments section below your insights and experiences with this gaming desk. I would love to hear your thoughts!

Recommended reading for you:

The Best Gaming Desks 2021: Reign Supreme In Comfort & Style!

Your Quick Guide To Buying PC Gaming Desks 2021

Best Adjustable Desk Risers 2021: Level Up Your Office

Your Helpful Buyer’s Guide To The Best Standing Desk Converter For 2021

The Top 10 Best Standing Desks 2021: Working From Home Has Never Been This Comfortable!

Best Computer Gaming Chairs For Adults 2021: For Next Level Gaming!

The Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk Review: Your Superior Gaming Desk With LED Lights

The Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk Review: Your Superior Gaming Desk With LED Lights

When it comes to your gaming peripheral needs, Cougar needs no introduction. That’s why today, I’ll be giving you a review on one of their products, the Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk.

While gaming desks or any piece of furniture that have the word “gaming” attached to it tend to raise some brows from certain people, you can’t deny that these products that are crafted with gamers in mind totally enhances your overall gaming experience.

Aside from the gamer aesthetic it’s integrated with, gaming desks tend to just know what we need to make our gaming sessions a lot better and more convenient. Whether it be cup holders, cable management, headphone stands, additional compartments and drawers, and so much more.

Gaming desks and other furniture are more than their flashy RGB lights. In many ways, gaming desks provide impressive ergonomic features a lot of traditional desks don’t have. Some even have height-adjustable options to promote healthier posture and overall lifestyle.

However, let’s find out below if the Cougar Mars 120 is exactly what you need for your gaming setup.

See Where The Cougar Mars 120 Ranks In Our List Of The Best Gaming Desks Of 2021 Here.

Overview

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Throughout the years, Cougar has been one of the top go-to brands of gamers from all over the world. They have been providing high-quality gaming furniture and peripherals since 2008 and rest assured that you can rely on their products. From PC components, peripherals, gaming chairs, desks, you name it.

But let’s get to the star of the show, the Cougar Mars 120.

According to Cougar, this particular gaming desk has an ergonomic and generously spacious design to accommodate all your gaming accessories. In addition, the flashy and dazzling ARGB lighting effects integrated on the desk’s sides are there to further enhance your gaming atmosphere.

Cougar Mars 120 Vs. The Original Cougar Mars Gaming Desk

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If you’re unaware, this is actually the more affordable and compact version of their original Cougar Mars gaming desk. That one is almost double the 120’s price point. The 120 variant has a lot of similarities with the original version actually. From the shape, design, down to the ARGB lighting effects.

The only significant difference I noticed between the two is that the first one is generally a lot larger, meaning it has a more spacious workable surface, and it’s also height adjustable. Personally, if you have the budget for the original one, I would say go for that instead.

Height adjustable desks are so beneficial nowadays, especially when taking care of your health during a pandemic is more important than ever. Honestly, the lack of height adjustability is really the only con I see in the Cougar Mars 120.

Aside from that, the 120 is a fairly impressive gaming desk on its own.

Features & Specifications

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  • Product Size: 1250 x 810 x 740 (in millimeters)
  • Surface Dimensions: 31.5 x 11.81 x 47.24 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 88.18 lbs.
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Cougar
  • Weight Capacity: 330 lbs or 150 kg.
  • Height Adjustable: No.
  • Cable Management: No.
  • Material: High-strength welded steel frame and carbon fiber tabletop.
  • Colors: Black.
  • Extra Special Features: Scratch-resistant carbon fiber surface, ARGB Lighting Strips, Control stands, RGB button, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio jack, and a 3.5mm microphone jack.

What’s In The Box

Upon receiving the packaging, you’ll first notice just how large this equipment is. Also how heavy it is! But inside, you’ll get:

  • 2 bottom legs.
  • 1 cross supports.
  • 2 RGB side pieces.
  • 1 top piece.
  • 1 header unit that contains the RGB button, USB 2.0 and 3.0 inputs, and an audio and microphone jack.
  • Tools and screws.
  • Instruction manual.

Take note, assembly does take a bit of time on this unit. So make sure to read the user manual carefully to avoid any faulty setups.

Click here to check out the Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk user manual.

Interested In Checking Out Other Gaming Desks From Different Brands? Click Here For Our Top Recommendations This 2021.

What We Love About The Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk

Take a look below at the features we absolutely loved about the Cougar Mars 120.

Ergo-friendly and Sturdy Design

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Upon first glance, the very first thing I noticed with the Cougar Mars 120 is its ergonomic design. While it sports the usual rectangular shape of many gaming desks, the cutout on the front will make it easy for you to get closer to your monitor. It also offers a comfortable position for you during your gaming sessions.

Additionally, the legs and frame are made of a high-strength welded steel frame which makes this unit really sturdy and stable even under heavy pressure. It can effortlessly accommodate up to 150 kg or 330 lbs. of weight!

To put it simply, you can probably put two average-sized or three small people on top of this table and you will not experience any wobbling or shaking at all with the 120. The welds are also well hidden so you won’t really see them once the gaming desk is in use.

While I admit, I do miss having the option of height adjustability that came in with the original and larger Cougar Mars, the 120 did not disappoint in terms of sturdiness and being ergo-friendly.

Spacious Work Surface

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Despite being the more compact version of the original Cougar Mars gaming desk, the 120 actually still offers a pretty spacious surface area.

So if you were worried previously about whether this can carry all your gaming needs, no need to worry! It has plenty of room to accommodate all your gaming accessories and peripherals, and even dual monitor setups effortlessly.

In fact, the Cougar Mars 120 boasts a 31.5 by 11.81 by 47.24 inches of workable surface area.

Scratch Resistance

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Speaking of the Cougar Mars 120’s surface, the tabletop is actually made of high-quality carbon fiber to make sure that your gaming desk stays scratch-free.

As you might already know, our gaming sessions can sometimes get intense. In turn, we often have to move our mouse and keyboards in different directions at a quick pace to keep up with the game. This results in your gaming desks ending up with multiple scratches because those items rub against the surface quite harshly.

Thankfully, this won’t happen with the Cougar Mars 120 unless you actually try to make a dent on the table on purpose.

Built-In Control Port For Your Gaming Accessories

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Style and Aesthetic

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If you’re looking for a gaming desk that says “I’m a gamer”, then the Cougar Mars 120 will not disappoint you at all. The two ARGB lighting strips at the sides just really amps up your gaming atmosphere. Giving you the best gaming space possible, aesthetic-wise. I find the overall style sleek and not at all tacky.

What’s more, you can also connect compatible motherboards and keyboards through the control port so the ARGB lighting effects are all synced up, giving you a more cohesive color pattern.

But if you want a more subtle and minimal design, you can also opt to switch off the ARGB lights for a more professional look during your work hours.

Our Least Favorite Thing

It’s Not Height Adjustable

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As I have already previously mentioned, the one thing I really miss in the Cougar Mars 120 is the ability to adjust its height. If it had this particular feature, this gaming desk will be close to perfection.

But because it only has one default height setting, I’m a little bit disappointed. That means you would be stuck with a sitting position throughout your gaming sessions. Which can be pretty bad for your overall health if you tend to play for several hours throughout the day.

For some, this might not be an issue at all but if you want to stay in shape, maintain your posture, and avoid any life threatening diseases that comes from sitting for extended periods of time, I would highly suggest searching for gaming desks with height adjustability like the original Cougar Mars gaming desk.

No Cable Management

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Another feature I miss from this otherwise impressive gaming desk is cable management. It would have been really nice if Cougar gave us at least this option.

I get the height adjustment settings will come at a hefty cost in production but adding in a cable slot or even a compartment would make a world’s difference in terms of keeping pesky cables hidden and away from your space.

In A Nutshell

Here’s a narrowed down list of the good and the bad with the Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk.

Pros

  • Sturdy and has great weight limit capacity.
  • Ergonomic and spacious design.
  • Dazzling ARGB lighting effects which you can also turn off or remove if you prefer a more “professional” look to your desk.
  • Has a built-in control stand to plug in your USB devices, audio and microphone jacks, and other accessories.
  • The ARGB lighting effects are compatible with motherboards’ 5V connection with Asus Aura Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion, MSI Mystic Light Sync, and ASRock Polychrome Sync for lighting synchronization of the whole system.

Cons

  • Takes some time to assemble.
  • No cable management options.
  • Not height adjustable.

The Final Verdict

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Overall, the Cougar Mars 120 is a solid and sturdy gaming desk that will provide a healthy and ergonomic gaming space for you.

A great gaming desk should be able to provide you with a durable and sturdy base, a generous and spacious surface area along other added functionalities. The Cougar Mars 120 ticks all those boxes.

If you can overlook the lack of cable management and adjustable height settings, this gaming desk performs impressively especially when it comes to heavier and more demanding gaming setups.

So if you’re on the hunt for a mid-range priced gaming desk that offers not only impressive features and functionalities but as well as enhances your overall setup and gaming aesthetic without taking up too much space, the Cougar Mars 120 is definitely something worth looking into.

Already own the Cougar Mars 120? Tell me all about your experiences and insights with this gaming desk on the comments section below. I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Recommended reading for you:

The Best Gaming Desks 2021: Reign Supreme In Comfort & Style

Your Quick Guide To Buying PC Gaming Desks 2021

Cougar Argo Gaming Chair: Is It The Next Best Thing?

The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk Review: Go Big Or Go Home With Your Gaming Setup

Reign Supreme In Comfort With The Best Gaming Desks 2021

Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two.

The best gaming desks of 2021 are more than just flashy pieces of furniture for dedicated and casual gamers alike. For some people, gaming desks are often overlooked or deemed unnecessary. They tend to feel like they’re overpriced, tacky, and that a traditional office desk can do the same job without the expensive price tag.

But I don’t necessarily agree with them and I’m sure the gamers who are reading this right now will support me. While it’s true that at its core, these desks have the same function: to carry your gaming or work peripherals.

However, a gaming desk can be an entirely different experience for the right person. Let’s find out why below.

Why Do You Need A Gaming Desk?

why-you-need-a-gaming-desk

Depending on who is using it, a gaming desk can take your overall gaming sessions to the next level. Obviously, the actual gaming part is all based on your skills, but doing so doesn’t have to be uncomfortable for you.

I know all too well how we can work up a sweat during games as they get intense or when you reach more difficult levels. Sometimes, moving the mouse alone can be such a struggle as traditional desks don’t have the same weight capacity or space to take on all our gaming equipment.

For others, traditional desks can either be too high or too low and that puts a strain on their joints and muscles. This ultimately makes the whole gaming experience uncomfortable and somewhat disheartening to continue playing.

But with a dedicated gaming desk, these difficulties are easily addressed. After all, they are made specifically for gaming and to ensure the utmost comfort of the gamer. Therefore, I do believe that investing in a gaming desk is definitely worth your while.

Not only will your previous concerns be handled, but you’re also getting a ton of extra features with a gaming desk.

Though keep in mind that this would entirely depend on which unit or model you get from certain manufacturers. But gaming desks can offer a variety of features such as built-in LED lights, cable management, cup holders, height adjustability settings, and so much more.

So if you want to be on top of your game every time you sit down to play, read on for our top recommendations of the best gaming desks this 2021.

Our Top Recommendations

1. ApexDesk Elite Series 60″ W Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk

apex-desk-elite-series-best-gaming-desk-2021

Overview

Taking the top spot in our list is the ApexDesk Elite Series 60″.

Despite the subtle and minimalist design, this desk is spacious and sturdy enough to accommodate all your gaming peripherals. Coming in at a width of 60 inches and a depth of 30 inches, you’re getting a ton of massive space so feeling crammed up while you’re gaming will no longer be an issue.

With this much space, you can effortlessly fit in large keyboards, headphones, dual monitors, speakers, and you’re left with more space so you can move around your mouse without bumping into other equipment. Additionally, this desk also has a weight capacity of 235 lbs.

Apart from your gaming peripherals, this particular gaming desk also has a nifty, full-sized cable tray you can use to keep your space looking tidy and orderly. With a measurement of 35.5 x 5.5 inches, the tray is large enough to fit in and hide all the cables necessary to your gaming setup.

What’s more, the tray has space for one 12-outlet power strip and a few power adapters if you need them.

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Last but not the least, the ApexDesk Elite Series is also very ergo-friendly.

You know I love to promote a healthy lifestyle, so it’s really impressive that this gaming desk also serves as a sit-stand desk with a powerful dual motor lifting system. This means you have the option to easily adjust the desk’s height from 29 inches up to 49 inches with a single press of a button.

This way, you can get at a comfortable height during gaming sessions whether you’re sitting or standing.

Features & Specifications

apex-desk-elite-series-specs
  • Product Dimensions: 60 x 27 x 48 inches.
  • Shape: Rectangular.
  • Item Weight: 131 lbs.
  • Manufacturer / Brand: ApexDesk
  • Weight Capacity: 235 lbs
  • Height Adjustable: Yes, from 29 inches to 49 inches.
  • Cable Management: Yes.
  • Material: Engineered wood and metal.
  • Colors: Black, White, Grey, Light Oak, Red Apple Top, Red Cherry Top, and Walnut.
  • Extra Special Features: Cable tray, ergonomic cutout on the front if you want to work closer to your monitors.

Pros

  • Ergonomic design.
  • Cable tray inclusion to keep your cables tidy and hidden away.
  • Sturdy and durable.
  • Spacious tabletop.
  • Easy height adjustment settings.

Cons

  • Assembly takes up a bit of time.
  • Some might find the overall style of the desk a little bland and basic.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The ApexDesk Elite Series 60″ W Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk?

2. Cougar MARS 120 Ergonomic & Scratch Resistant Gaming Desk

cougar-mars-120-best-gaming-desks-2021

Overview

Now if you’re looking for gaming desk that’s true to the gamer aesthetic, I present to you the Cougar Mars 120.

When it comes to gaming equipment, you really can’t go wrong with the brand Cougar. They’re a reliable gaming company that produces one of the best gaming peripherals and equipment for any gamer out there. With the Mars 120, I assure you that you’ll be getting the same experience.

This particular gaming desk is spacious and sturdy enough to carry all your equipment without any fuss. It does, however, take quite a bit of time to assemble. Not to mention, it’s pretty heavy too. But all those just contribute to just how well this desk performs under heavy load.

cougar-mars-120-overview

On the surface, you’re getting a textured carbon fiber tabletop that’s scratch-resistant and wide enough to accommodate two 27-inch dual monitors with enough room to spare for more of your stuff. This gaming desk made of a high-strength welded steel frame can easily handle up to 330lbs of weight!

In terms of design, you will notice on the sides are two RGB lighting strips that can be connected to your PC’s motherboard so you can sync the colors with your gaming peripherals. The ARGB lighting effects help in giving you a more immersive experience and boost your overall gaming atmosphere.

Check out our dedicated review of the Cougar Mars 120 here.

Features & Specifications

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  • Product Dimensions: 31.5 x 11.81 x 47.24 inches.
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: 88.18 lbs.
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Cougar
  • Weight Capacity: 330 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: No.
  • Cable Management: No.
  • Material: High-strength welded steel frame and carbon fiber tabletop.
  • Colors: Black.
  • Extra Special Features: ARGB Lighting Strips, Control stands

Pros

  • Sturdy and has great weight limit capacity.
  • Ergonomic and spacious design.
  • Nice ARGB lighting.
  • Has a built-in control stand to plug in your USB devices.

Cons

  • Takes some time to assemble.
  • No cable management options.
  • Not height adjustable.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Cougar MARS 120 Ergonomic & Scratch Resistant Gaming Desk?

3. Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk

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Overview

Another gaming desk in our list that just screams “gamer” vibes is the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk.

You won’t be getting the same RGB lights on this unit, but the graphic print on the tabletop definitely says “I’m a gamer”. but if you prefer a subtle design, this model also offers a pure black variant.

Like the previous models I have mentioned above, this gaming desk is one of the largest and most spacious desks I have encountered. It can accommodate up to 176 lbs. of weight! At the same time, it’s spacious enough and perfect for gamers who run two to three monitors during their gaming sessions. Curved gaming monitors included!

Even if you’re running three panels at the same time, you will still be left with enough room to spare for your keyboard, mouse, and other necessary gaming peripherals that you need.

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If that’s not enough, this desk is also waterproof. So while I don’t recommend drinking anything during games as it can potentially harm your equipment, it’s nice to know that the desk is protected from any accidental spills.

The only downside I see is that it is on the pricier side of the spectrum of gaming desks in the market. But if you have the budget to spare, this is a very solid choice for you especially if you play using two or more monitors.

Features & Specifications

arozzi-arena-gaming-desk-specs
  • Product Dimensions: ‎32.2 x 63 x 31 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Item Weight: ‎85.5 pounds
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Arozzi
  • Weight Capacity:  176 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: Yes.
  • Cable Management: Yes.
  • Material: Microfiber cloth and metal base.
  • Colors: Black, blue, green. red, and white.
  • Extra Special Features: Waterproof tabletop, multiple color variants to choose from.

Pros

  • Spacious enough to accommodate two to three monitor systems along with other gaming peripherals.
  • Includes cable management.
  • Can easily carry up to 176 lbs. of weight.
  • Waterproof surface.
  • Sturdy and durable.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Height adjustability is less than mediocre.

Check out our dedicated review of the Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk here.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk?

4. Flexispot EN1 Primo 48″

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Overview

While not marketed as a gaming desk, the Flexispot EN1 Primo deserves a spot in our Best Gaming Desks list of 2021 due to its impressive features that are just hard to ignore.

What it lacks in the usual gamer aesthetic department, the Flexispot EN1 Primo makes up for its amazing sturdiness, built, and ergonomic features such as an electric height adjustable system. By just pushing the built-in LED button controller, you will be able to customize your desk height in your preferred setting.

Moreover, you can also program up to 3 different customized heights with this adjustable desk to easily switch between standing and sitting positions.

The motor lift mechanism in this model offers smoother height adjustments, going from 29 inches up to 48.6 inches (1” thickness of tabletop included), with a speed of 1 inch per second with low noise (under 50 dB) while adjusting.

As for the surface area, it has a 48” x 30” workable surface which should be more than enough to accommodate the average gaming setup.

Features & Specifications

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  • Product Dimensions: 48 x 30 inches.
  • Shape: Rectangular.
  • Item Weight: 100 lbs.
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Flexispot.
  • Weight Capacity: 154 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: Yes, from 29 inches to 48.6 inches.
  • Cable Management: No.
  • Material: Wood and metal.
  • Colors: Black, maple, walnut, and white.
  • Extra Special Features: Built-in LED button controller for height adjustment, customizable programs for your preferred desk heights.

Pros

  • The subtle design is great for professionals who game from time to time and like to keep their setup lowkey and minimal.
  • Ergonomic design.
  • You can program customizable desk heights according to your preference.

Cons

  • No cable management options.
  • No pressure sensor.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Flexispot EN1 Primo?

5. Eureka Ergonomic Captain X Series 47″

eureka-ergonomic-gaming-desk

Overview

Taking our fifth spot in this list is the Eureka Ergonomic Captain X Series 47″.

People who are on a budget or just prefer to spend less on their gaming desks so they can prioritize more critical parts of their gaming setup will absolutely love this table.

Having your dream gaming setup doesn’t necessarily mean you have to burn a hole through your wallet. While other companies start their gaming desk’s price ranges at around $300, Eureka decided to take the other direction and gave us this budget-friendly gaming desk that’s just under $200.

Of course, you can’t expect this to have the same high-tech and complicated features other premium gaming desks have, but this model is certainly more than enough to do what it needs to do. Which is essentially to carry your gaming peripherals.

eureka-ergonomic-captain-x-series-overview

Eureka’s Ergonomic Captain X Series 47-inch wide top offers a fairly spacious surface for your gaming monitors, mousepads, and keyboards. Measuring 47 inches wide and 23 inches deep, it also has adjustable legs so you can slightly dial your preferred height and level.

In addition, the Ergonomic Captain X Series also comes in with a convenient cup holder, headphone hook, controller stand, game storage and a mouse pad for your gaming keyboard and mouse.

If you’re also worried about space, this gaming desk doesn’t take up too much space and can be placed in extremely small spaces.

Features & Specifications

eureka-ergonomic-captain-x-series-specs
  • Product Dimensions: 23.62 x 47.24 x 29.33 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular.
  • Item Weight: 44.9 pounds
  • Manufacturer / Brand: EUREKA ERGONOMIC
  • Weight Capacity: 90 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: No.
  • Cable Management: No.
  • Material: Wood and Alloy Steel.
  • Colors: Black.
  • Extra Special Features: Cup holder, headphone hook, game storage, mousepad, and a controller stand.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly price.
  • Has a lot of ergonomic features such as a cup holder, headphone hook, game storage, and etc.
  • Doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Cons

  • Can only accommodate up to 90 lbs. of weight.
  • No cable management options.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Eureka Ergonomic Captain X Series 47″?

6. RESPAWN RSP-3010 Computer Ergonomic Height Adjustable Gaming Desk

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Overview

What caught my eye with the Respawn 3010 is just how many accessory holders it has built into the desk itself. For gamers who require a lot of accessories and peripherals, this gaming desk is worth looking into.

Just to go into specifics, the Respawn 3010 has an integrated and dedicated monitor shelf so it is placed on a raised surface. The multiple accessory holders allow for easy access and retrieval to your peripherals or even water bottles if you ever feel parched mid-game.

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When it comes to this gaming desk’s weight capacity limit, you have nothing to worry about. The Respawn 3010 can easily accommodate up to 200 lbs. of weight! This is also supported by a sturdy steel tube frame. So it’s safe to say that your whole gaming setup will be in good hands.

If those features aren’t enough to impress you, this gaming desk is also height adjustable. It uses pneumatics to go from 28 125″ to 43 875″.

This gaming desk also comes in two-tone color variants of red, gray, blue, and green.

Personally, I don’t think I have seen a gaming desk with this many integrated accessory holders and it’s actually quite handy. I honestly don’t use a lot of accessories whenever I play games, but this gaming desk could be someone’s answered prayer.

Features & Specifications

respawn-3010-specs
  • Product Dimensions: 23.63 x 52.63 x 49.5 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular.
  • Item Weight: 75.6 pounds
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Respawn
  • Weight Capacity: 200 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: Yes.
  • Cable Management: No.
  • Material: Wood, Metal, Plastic
  • Colors: Blue, green, red, and grey.
  • Extra Special Features: A plethora of accessory holders and height adjustable settings.

Pros

  • Sturdy and ergonomic built.
  • Height adjustable.
  • Can accommodate up to 200 lbs. of weight.
  • Multiple accessory holders.

Cons

  • No cable management.

Rating: 9 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The RESPAWN RSP-3010 Computer Ergonomic Height Adjustable Gaming Desk?

7. Thermaltake Tt Gaming Level 20 Gt Battlestation Computer Gaming Desk

thermaltake-battlestation-computer-gaming-desk

Overview

Last but not least in our list of the Best Gaming Desks 2021 is the Thermaltake Tt Gaming Level 20 Gt Battlestation Computer Gaming Desk. What a mouthful!

This modestly styled gaming desk is built to take on up to 220 pounds of weight. So if your gaming equipment goes on the heavier side, I would recommend checking this out.

While the Tt Gaming Level 20 Gt Battlestation is definitely not the prettiest gaming desk to look at, it boasts a multi-purpose cable management and display panel for its users along with a heavy-duty steel frame. It also has a full cloth mouse pad that can be removed and washed once it gets a little gritty.

Aside from its impressive weight capacity and integrated accessories, this particular gaming desk is also ergonomically designed with 7 level height adjustments from 28.9″ to 40.7″ without the desktop thickness.

Features & Specifications

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  • Product Dimensions: ‎27.5 x 59 x 28.9 inches
  • Shape: Rectangular.
  • Item Weight: ‎102.3 pounds
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Thermaltake.
  • Weight Capacity: 220 lbs.
  • Height Adjustable: Yes.
  • Cable Management: Yes.
  • Material: Engineered wood and steel frame.
  • Colors: Black.
  • Extra Special Features: 7 level height adjustments, cable management, and a washable mousepad cloth.

Pros

  • Weight capacity is 220 lbs.
  • There’s cable management.
  • Sturdy frame and build.
  • Height adjustable with 7 level height adjustments.

Cons

  • Design is pretty basic and bland.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Where Can I Buy The Thermaltake Tt Gaming Level 20 Gt Battlestation Computer Gaming Desk?

Before You Buy

Now that we have covered my top recommendations of the best gaming desks this 2021 for you, let’s tackle some things you need to consider before making any purchases.

Size

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Before you get to purchasing your chosen gaming desk, I highly suggest taking a look at the space you’ll be placing the table in. This will determine the right size of the gaming desk you need to buy. You need to make sure that your space won’t be too crammed up so you can be comfortable to move around easily.

I recommend measure the room or corner where the table will be placed so you know what you’re working with. It will also make things easier for you once you’re shopping for gaming desks.

Aside from the space, take into consideration your gaming peripherals as well. Are you using dual monitors? Do you need more space to maneuver your mouse? Is your keyboard larger than average? Make sure you know what your setup is like so you know the adequate space you need for your equipment.

Weight Capacity

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Speaking of gaming peripherals and equipment, another important factor to keep in mind is the gaming desk’s weight capacity.

Some of you run two to three monitor systems when gaming along with other equipment. So aside from having enough space to accommodate them, you also need to make sure that the desk itself can carry all those things simultaneously. The last thing you need is to have your table breaking down on you mid-game.

If a table can’t take on heavier loads, it’s highly possible you’ll experience wobbling and shaking during your gaming sessions. So in order to avoid this, get a gaming desk that will be suitable and sturdy enough for your overall setup.

Durability

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When it comes to a gaming desk’s durability and sturdiness, this one should be a no-brainer. No gamer or individual out there wants to end up with a faulty or wobbly desk. Not only is it not worth the money, but desks that aren’t sturdy are very prone to accidents. not to mention, you also risk your equipment dropping to the floor.

So to prevent all of this from happening, it’s best to thoroughly check if the gaming desk you have chosen for yourself is enough to accommodate your gaming peripherals. At the same time, do some research if the materials used are sturdy and durable enough to last you for many years to come.

Style & Design

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While the style and design of a gaming desk solely rely on your preference, I would highly suggest choosing a desk that will benefit you in the long run. The best gaming desks in the market should be ergonomic. Some even offer adjustable height settings so you don’t end up sitting for long periods throughout the day.

As you all know, sitting for such a long time can be detrimental to one’s health. So I would heavily encourage you to get into the habit of gaming while standing every now and then. Once you’re ready to shop, look out for ergo-friendly features so you can stay healthy and enjoy your favorite games at the same time.

When it comes to style, most gaming desks scream out “GAMER”. What I mean by that is that we usually see vibrant RGB lighting and accents and colorful and eye-catching designs in gaming desks. Some even have limited edition designs of our favorite pop culture icons. The possibilities and options are endless.

If you prefer a more subtle design, worry not! There are definitely brands and manufacturers in the market that produce these sorts of gaming desks. These would be perfect for you if you want a more professional setup in your home.

Shape

Speaking of design and style, the shape of your gaming desk is another important factor to consider. Especially if you have a specific space in mind to place the gaming desk. To help you out, here are the different shapes of gaming desks available in the market right now:

  • Rectangular
  • L-shaped
  • Corner

I’m sure there are other unique shapes of gaming desks being sold in the market that I have yet to see, but these three shapes are the most common types you’ll come across frequently.

Functionality

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When talking about functionality, you have to carefully consider the necessary features your desired gaming desk should have. For example, if you like to drink coffee while you game or work, a gaming desk with an integrated cup holder will be very beneficial for you.

Other functional features may also include:

Cable Management

So you don’t have to worry about multiple cables tangling across your space. These may come in the form of holes and grommets, cable trays, slots, and cable nets.

Adjustable Height Settings

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Having the option to adjust the height settings of your gaming desk will do wonders for your health. Studies have shown that standing from time to time instead of sitting for long periods of time can be healthy for you in the long run.

While sit-to-stand desks can come at quite a cost for some of you, I assure you that it’s worth the investment.

Fortunately, more and more gaming companies are now promoting healthy gaming environments and spaces by making their gaming desks (and chairs!) more ergonomic friendly by giving us the option to adjust their heights. This way, you have more options within the price ranges you can afford.

Compartments & Drawers

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This is not as common in the gaming chairs I have seen, but there are definitely some out there that offer their users gaming desks with built-in compartments and drawers. This function helps a lot in avoiding clutter and messes around your table.

If you don’t like having your pens or papers spread out around your table, try looking into gaming desks with drawers and compartments so you can keep your gaming space orderly.

Assembly

Most gaming desks in the market require a little bit of assembly. But there are also ones that get delivered to your home pre-assembled. If you don’t mind taking the extra time to figure out the bolts and screws when assembling your gaming desk, then this shouldn’t really pose a problem for you.

Personally, I was never really good at assembling any kind of objects so I like my tables or any sort of furniture to come in already pre-assembled. Apart from not being good with my hands, I just really prefer to receive the product, lay it down, then use it right away.

If by any chance that you’re like me, then I would recommend looking into gaming desks that arrive at your home pre-assembled.

Conclusion

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A gaming desk is every gaming setup’s foundation. And just like any foundation, it has to be solid and can effortlessly carry our gaming equipment for us. When we face struggles that are not in-game or related to what we are playing such as faulty, wobbly desks, it can totally ruin the experience for us.

Just like how we need to be well equipped for any game we take on, our setup needs the same treatment. The comfort and pleasure we get when everything is in place and working properly can’t be underestimated.

When gaming is a way to relieve stress after a busy day for us, the last thing we want is more struggles from a subpar desk. Not to mention, the added stress on your joints and posture because they are not the right height.

As I have stated at the beginning of this article, a gaming desk is more than a piece of colorful and overpriced furniture. It offers versatility and ergonomic features that make sure that you’re comfortable, in great posture, and healthy whenever you’re’ using it. Regardless if you’re actually gaming or not.

Already own a gaming desk? Did your favorite gaming desk make it in our list of the best gaming desks 2021? Let me know about your experiences and what your insights are in the comments section below! I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Recommended reading for you:

Your Quick Guide To Buying PC Gaming Desks 2021

Best Adjustable Desk Risers 2021: Level Up Your Office

Your Helpful Buyer’s Guide To The Best Standing Desk Converter For 2021

The Top 10 Best Standing Desks 2021: Working From Home Has Never Been This Comfortable!

Best Computer Gaming Chairs For Adults 2021: For Next Level Gaming!

The Cougar Mars 120 Gaming Desk Review: Your Superior Gaming Desk With LED Lights

The Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk Review: Go Big Or Go Home With Your Gaming Setup

Buyer’s Guide To Getting The Best Sounding Bookshelf Speakers 2021

When it comes to investing in your home setup, of course, you would want nothing but the best for yourself. So to help you out, here’s a quick buyer’s guide on getting the best sounding bookshelf speakers this 2021.

What better way to amp up your living room, right?

Click here to check out our top recommendations of the best bookshelf speakers for 2021.

What Are Bookshelf Speakers?

For some of you reading this article right now, this might be the first time you’ve ever heard of bookshelf speakers. Some of you might even be thinking about why you need a set of speakers for your bookshelves. I know, I’ve been there.

But to set aside any confusion, bookshelf speakers aren’t actually meant to be placed on actual bookshelves despite their name. They’re a portable alternative to the larger floor speakers we are all familiar with. In fact, these devices are named bookshelf speakers due to their rather compact size and lighter weight.

what-are-bookshelf-speakers

These types of loudspeakers are perfect for people who want to upgrade their home theatre setup but don’t have enough floor space for a dedicated floor speaker.

While they won’t be delivering the same heart-thumping bass and rumbling power a regular-sized speaker would don’t underestimate the power bookshelf speakers can provide.

They can deliver solid and loud stereo sounds and loud that is more than enough for a small to medium-sized room. Perfect for bedrooms, home offices, smaller living rooms, or even home gyms! Some even put them inside kitchens to get their groove on while they cook.

If you really want that extra oomf in loudness, you can easily add a subwoofer to really amplify your listening experience. Unlike floor speakers, bookshelf speakers are so versatile and their compact sizes contribute to that a lot. So however you want to use your sound system, bookshelf speakers are your new best friend.

The 2 Types Of Bookshelf Speakers

When it comes to bookshelf speakers, you will be faced with 2 types of them: the active speakers and the passive speakers. Below, I’ll be explaining each type thoroughly so you know which one is suitable for you.

Active

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Active speakers are great for people who don’t like multiple cables snaking around their living room and don’t mind that they are stuck with the loudspeaker’s default sound.

This type of loudspeaker has all the components of a traditional stereo system combined into one body. You’ll find that the amplifier is built inside the cabinets and will provide you with the best sound quality possible for that specific unit.

Active speakers also usually have a decent amount of inputs for all of your playback devices. Some models also only require a single power source and a minimal number of cable connections.

As time goes on, loudspeaker companies slowly make active speakers more modern and adaptable to today’s technology. Now, you will find a lot of modern active speakers producing top quality stereo sound in a way that popular Wi-Fi speakers are not able to do.

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Active speakers also have a lot fewer moving parts because they don’t usually need an external amplifier attached to them.

Generally, they’re a lot cheaper because they don’t require so many separate amps. They also look cleaner without a bunch of separate components connected to them. If you have a very minimalist interior, then I highly suggest going for this type of bookshelf speaker.

Some active loudspeaker units are even more impressive, including built-in Bluetooth or having the ability to support music streaming services so you don’t need your phone to pair it up with. All you need to do is open your preferred music app, select your music of choice, then let the speakers do their thing.

Overall, when it comes to active speakers, ease of use and convenience is definitely is its biggest advantage.

Passive

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If you’re someone who likes to tinker and customize their sound systems to suit your preference, passive speakers will be great for you.

Unlike active speakers, you won’t be resigned or stuck with a stereo pair of bookshelf speakers. Passive speakers are much easier to upgrade because you can easily pick external amplifiers or power sources of your choice. This is great because you can also adjust the sound quality you need for any occasion or room.

So if you want more power or more bass or whatever, all you need to do is find an external component in the store and connect it to your existing passive loudspeakers. You don’t have to consistently replace the actual speakers if you want to make any upgrades.

When you choose passive speakers, you’re also getting a lot of flexibility with it. But keep in mind, having this kind of option can also be a little confusing or even overwhelming on your end if you’re just starting. It can get hard to pick which ones are the best to complement your sound system with so many choices.

Though I can imagine any experienced or veteran audiophile can probably do this in their sleep. The only downside of passive bookshelf speakers is having to deal with multiple extension cords laying across the floor.

Want to check out actual loudspeakers? Click here to see our top recommendations for you this 2021!

Things You Need To Consider

Now that you essentially know what bookshelf speakers are and its two types, let’s tackle the things you need to consider before making your purchase.

Budget

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No matter what kind of product you’re looking to buy, your budget should always be the first thing you consider. This will determine the price range you’re going for as well as narrow down your choices.

You can stretch your budget for as much as you like if you’re really eyeing a certain premium brand or lower it if you want to save up money. Just as long as you make sure you’re not spending money more than you can actually afford.

I get it can be tempting to get the latest releases but you have to consider and prioritize your necessities first. The good thing is the market is brimming with different bookshelf speakers at every price point you can imagine. From luxury choices to extremely budget-friendly finds.

Space

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Another important factor to consider before making any final decisions is the space in your home. This will also determine the size of the bookshelf speakers you need to look for.

Luckily, bookshelf speakers are made to be placed on raised surfaces so not having enough floor space won’t be too much of a concern. What you need to find is the right placement for your bookshelf speakers. The right placement can make a lot of difference in how your speakers will sound when being used.

Typically, harder surfaces like your walls will reflect the sound from the speaker. While softer surfaces will absorb those sounds. So I highly suggest testing out your bookshelf speakers in different parts of your room to see where it performs best.

Drivers

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The drivers are mainly responsible for producing your bookshelf speaker’s sounds. That being said, more drivers in a bookshelf speaker usually mean it can handle more frequencies. The material, as well as the placing, also plays a part in the quality of the sound being produced.

Subwoofers

subwoofers-for-bookshelf-speakers

This part is completely optional but if you feel like the speakers you’ve chosen don’t quite satisfy you during your listening sessions, you can get a subwoofer to further amplify the sound quality of your unit.

A subwoofer is another type of speaker that will boost the lowest of frequencies in whatever audio you’re listening to. These frequencies usually include deep basses, sound effects, drums, and every other instrumental you want to be more refined or detailed.

Subwoofers are usually added when bookshelf speakers are used for home theatre setups to amplify sound effects of any show or movie you’re watching. Making the whole experience as immersive as possible.

Test It Before You Buy It

Last but not the least, I highly advise you to go to a physical store to test out your desired bookshelf speakers rather than buying online.

While reading and watching reviews can be quite helpful, no amount of sound tests online will compare to the actual experience when you listen to the speakers personally. This way, you’ll have a more informed decision whether the loudspeakers live up to your expectations or not.

Conclusion

buyers-guide-to-the-best-sounding-bookshelf-speakers-conclusion

All in all, bookshelf speakers are undoubtedly the best alternative if you don’t have the space for a full-sized floor speaker and you feel like the portable wireless Bluetooth speakers don’t have enough power. It’s a perfect balance in between those two options.

Bookshelf speakers can easily complement any home interior and really upgrade your overall home setup. Regardless if it’s for your home theatre system, your bedroom, your home office, or anywhere else in your house.

Finding the best sounding bookshelf speakers shouldn’t be hard, but it’s also best to purchase these kinds of stuff when you’re well-informed of your choices and options.

So I hope this buyer’s guide was able to help you out with the things you need to consider. Happy shopping!

Already own a pair of the best sounding bookshelf speakers for your home setup? Let me know about your thoughts and experiences below in the comments section! I would love to hear what you have to say.

Recommended reading for you:

The Best Bookshelf Speakers 2021 For Your Listening Pleasure

Best Bluetooth Speakers For The Shower 2021: Sing Along And Make Your Showers More Fun

The 10 Best Bluetooth Speakers For Camping This 2021: Which One Is The Best For You?

The KEF LS50 Wireless II Review: Your Best All-In-One Loudspeakers

The Q Acoustics 3020i Review: The Best Affordable Bookshelf Speakers

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