Another interesting products
Do You Use Your Laptop in Less-Than-Ideal Ways?
Think about how and where you use your laptop. Do you often find yourself working with it:
- In bed, with the laptop sitting directly on your legs or blankets?
- On the couch, hunched over the device on your lap?
- At a desk or table, but without an external keyboard and mouse?
If so, you're not alone! Many laptop users frequently work in these types of improvised, less-than-ergonomic arrangements. And while it may seem convenient at the time, over the long run this can lead to some issues:
| Problem | Cause |
|---|---|
| Overheating | Laptop generates a lot of heat. Direct contact with your legs traps the heat. |
| Discomfort | Hard surfaces like thighs or forearms aren't designed to support laptops long-term. |
| Neck/back strain | Hunching over a low laptop screen can stress the spine. |
| Carpal tunnel | Using laptop keyboard/trackpad extensively without ergonomic external devices can cause issues in wrists/hands. |
The good news is there are solutions to optimize how you use your laptop. One of the most effective and affordable options is adding a lapdesk.
A lapdesk creates a stable, cushioned surface to rest your laptop on - no matter where you choose to work. Models with adjustable legs, built-in fans, wrist rests, and more can further enhance comfort and prevent the problems above.
Read on to learn all about the benefits of using a lapdesk and find the best one to meet your needs!
Types of Lapdesks
There are several main styles of lapdesks to choose from. Each is designed with specific usage scenarios and needs in mind.
Portable Lapdesks
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport
- Flat or angled work surface
- Great for use anywhere - coffee shops, planes, lounging
Adjustable Lapdesks
- Legs fold out to elevate and angle the work surface
- Enable you to customize height and angle for ergonomics
- Vented bases help prevent laptop overheating
Lapdesk Stations
- All-in-one workstations with storage for laptop, mouse, documents
- Sturdier build for stationary home office use
- Standing desk height options available
Lapdesk Tables
- Lapdesks with larger surface areas
- Can be used as a portable side table next to couch/bed
- Cupholders and ledges for snacks, drinks, remotes
Overbed Lapdesks
- Extra long legs allow use over mattress
- Supports up to 20 lbs for stability
- Side clips or rails prevent laptop from sliding
With such a wide variety available, you're sure to find a lapdesk style that enables you to work, play, and browse comfortably no matter where you are.
Benefits of Using a Lapdesk
Lapdesks provide a number of advantages that can optimize your laptop usage experience:
Improves Posture
- Raises laptop screen closer to eye level to avoid neck craning
- Allows you to sit upright vs. hunched over a low laptop
- Optional ergonomic features like wrist rests and device stands further improve posture
Prevents Overheating
- Creates a barrier between your lap and hot laptop bottom
- Ventilation channels and raised legs expose laptop underside to air
- Built-in USB powered fans actively cool laptops in some models
Provides a Stable Surface
- Non-slip padded bottom grips lap securely
- Wide base disperses weight evenly
- Adjustable legs customize angle and prevent rocking/shaking
Allows Comfortable Use Anywhere
- Light designs are easy to move room to room or transport
- Use on sofa, recliner, bed without awkward balancing act
- Get work done even without a desk or table nearby
With better ergonomics, cooling, stability, and versatility, a lapdesk enables you to use your laptop in more places with greater comfort and efficiency.
Key Lapdesk Features to Look For
With so many lapdesks to choose from, here are some key features to evaluate:
Cushioned Bottom
- Thick padding prevents pressure points on legs
- Makes extended use more comfortable
- Memory foam or gel materials conform to lap shape
Adjustable Legs
- Customizable heights/angles to suit your needs
- Raise laptop screen closer to eye level
- Let you position laptop over obstacles like blankets or pets
Storage Space
- Compartments for chargers, pads, pens, etc.
- Prevents bag searching for accessories
- Keeps work area organized and clutter-free
Mouse Pad/Wrist Rest
- Supports wrists during extensive mouse/trackpad use
- Textured surface aids mousing accuracy
- Gel-padded models prevent skin irritation
Non-Slip Surface
- Rubberized texture holds laptop securely in place
- Prevents slides/spills during position shifts or sloped use
- Lips/bars also effective for laptop retention
Prioritizing these useful features will lead you to a quality lapdesk that enhances how you use your laptop.
Using Your Lapdesk
Once you've purchased a lapdesk, follow these tips to optimize your experience:
Sit Up Straight
- Avoid slouching - keep your back straight and shoulders back
- Position laptop screen at eye level to avoid neck strain
- Adjust lapdesk legs to customize height/angle if possible
- For long sessions, use a lumbar pillow for lower back support
Add External Devices
- An external mouse reduces wrist strain from extensive trackpad use
- External keyboards allow proper hand positioning vs. built-in ones
- Lapdesks with USB ports or built-in docking stations make connecting devices easy
- Use a document holder to keep reference materials nearby
Keep Laptop Cool
- Don't block laptop air vents - leave space for airflow
- Elevate rear laptop legs to increase airflow underneath
- For extended loads like gaming, use a lapdesk fan or cooling pad
- Monitor CPU temp and shut down if overheating occurs
Find the Right Location
- Avoid direct sunlight shining onto the laptop screen
- Position yourself near an outlet for charging access
- Angle the screen away from light sources to reduce glare
- Ensure your lapdesk is stable on the surface before placing laptop on it
With a few small adjustments, your lapdesk can provide an ergonomic and convenient computing experience anywhere in your home.
Top Lapdesks
Based on online customer reviews and sales data, here are 5 of the best lapdesks currently available:
LapGear Home Office Lap Desk
- Padded wrist rest for ergonomic mousing
- Phone slot, storage compartment and tablet ledge
- Sturdy wood surface supports up to 15 lbs
- Available in a variety of colors/prints to suit any decor
Huanuo Adjustable Laptop Stand
- 6 adjustable height settings up to 12 inches
- Folds flat for easy storage and transport
- Vented base enhances laptop airflow
- Non-slip feet grip surfaces securely
Mind Reader Adjustable Laptop Desk
- Lightweight at just over 2 lbs for portability
- Mesh material allows heat dissipation
- Angled top with stopper prevents laptop sliding
- Fits laptops up to 15 inches wide
LapGear Smart Media Lapdesk
- Built-in speakers produce quality stereo sound
- Dual-bolster cushioning for extra lap comfort
- Media slot securely holds phones/tablets
- Micro-bead lap cushion enables airflow
Rain Design mStand Laptop Stand
- Raises screen 5.9 inches for proper ergonomics
- Sandblasted aluminum looks sleek and minimalist
- Single piece construction - no assembly required
- Compatible with laptops up to 15 inches wide
With top-rated designs across a range of prices, styles and features, you're sure to find your ideal laptop desk above.
Similar products
Lapdesk Alternatives
While lapdesks offer the most complete portable workstation for laptop users, there are some other options to consider:
Laptop Stands
- Lift and angle laptop screen for ergonomic viewing
- Promote airflow to keep laptop cool
- Compact, lightweight designs for transport
- Do not provide cushioning or work surface
Portable Laptop Tables
- Folding tray tables offer hard surface for writing, mousing
- Cupholder/side tray allows drinks, snacks nearby
- Most do not have cushioning or ergonomic adjustability
- Bulky and heavier than lapdesks
Lap Cushions/Pillows
- Provide padding between laptop and legs for comfort
- Various shapes conform to different seating positions
- Do not offer adjustability or ventilation
- Can obstruct laptop air vents if poorly positioned
While these alternatives serve select purposes, lapdesks remain the best overall solution by combining ergonomics, cooling, portability and full workstation capabilities.
If you frequently use your laptop from a couch, bed or uneven surfaces, a quality lapdesk is still your top option for optimizing the experience.
Top products in 📚 Lapdesks
11 Review
Left Laptop On Bed
Leaving a laptop on a bed can be risky, but there are solutions to make it safer and more comfortable. Here are some options to consider:
- Lap desks designed for use in bed or on a couch, such as the Nestl Lap Desk for Laptop or the LapGear Designer Lap Desk.
- Portable lap desks that can be used on any surface, like the ones available at Best Buy.
- Lap desks with built-in USB lights, like the Sofia + Sam Lap Desk for Laptop and Writing, for easy reading in bed.
- Lap desks with storage, like the LapGear Designer Lap Desk, to keep your phone and other supplies within reach.
- Lap desks with heat protection, ventilation, or padding to absorb and distribute heat, like the ones recommended by Wirecutter.
- Adjustable lap desks, like the Wishacc Bamboo Lap Desk, that can help mitigate poor posture and put your body in a more comfortable and efficient work position.
How To Safely Move A Laptop From Bed To Desk??
Moving a laptop from bed to desk can be tricky, but there are some steps you can take to do it safely:
- Shut down your laptop before moving it to avoid any damage to the hard drive.
- Unplug any cords or accessories that may be attached to your laptop.
- Close the lid of your laptop and hold it securely with both hands.
- Slowly and carefully lift the laptop from the bed, keeping it level and avoiding any sudden movements.
- Place the laptop on a stable surface, such as a desk or table.
- Consider using a laptop stand or lap desk to make the transition easier and more comfortable, such as the Rain Design iLevel 2, Upryze Laptop Stand, or NEARPOW XXL Bed Table Bed Desk for Laptop and Writing.
