Home Office · Accessories & Add-ons
Office Desks: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the ErGear Electric Standing Desk, 120 x 60 cm Height Adjustable Sit Stand Desk, Dual Motor Motorised Office Desk with Memory Presets, Black — the best Office Desks we tested, from £109.99.
Investing in a new office desk is a great step towards setting up a productive workspace, but it’s easy to overlook the essential extras that truly complete the setup. Alongside your chosen desk, you'll want to consider accessories like cable management solutions, monitor mounts and stands, plus protective cases or storage options – items frequently needed for a comfortable and organised home office. This guide explores common add-ons shoppers often find themselves needing alongside their new desks, helping you future-proof your workspace and ensure everything runs smoothly.
See the full range in Office Desks.
#1 Pick
ErGear Electric Standing Desk, 120 x 60 cm Height Adjustable Sit Stand Desk, Dual Motor Motorised Office Desk with Memory Presets, Black- Engineered Wood & Steel
- 120x60cm
£109.99
Pros
- Dual-motor electric lift with memory height presets
- Spacious 120x60cm top suits dual-monitor setups
- Consistently high rating across thousands of reviews
Cons
- Requires a nearby power socket for the motor
#2 Pick
VASAGLE Computer Desk, Office Desk Table Workstation, 80 x 50 x 75 cm, Easy Assembly, Industrial Design, Rustic Brown and Black LWD038B01- Particleboard & Steel
- 80x50x75cm
£27.99
Pros
- Compact 80x50cm footprint suits small home offices
- Very well reviewed with thousands of verified ratings
- Simple steel frame assembles quickly
Cons
- Limited surface area for larger monitor setups
#3 Pick
VASAGLE LWD64X Large Desk with Wood Effect, Vintage Computer Desk with Sturdy Metal Frame, Industrial Design, Brown- Wood Effect & Metal
- 140x60cm
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Generous work surface suits dual-monitor setups
- Heavy-duty metal frame resists wobble
- Industrial wood-effect finish suits most decor
Cons
- Flat-pack assembly takes some time
#4 Pick
VASAGLE Computer Desk, L-Shaped Writing Workstation, Industrial Corner Desk with Monitor Stand, for Home Office Study Writing and Gaming, Space Saving, Easy Assembly, Greige and Black LWD056B02- Particleboard & Steel
- 120x100x76cm
£54.99
Pros
- L-shaped layout with built-in monitor stand raises screen to eye level
- Space-saving corner footprint suits smaller rooms
- Sturdy steel frame keeps the desk stable during typing
Cons
- Corner placement needed, not suited to narrow rooms
FAQ
What's typically included in an office desk box?
Most desks come with just the tabletop and legs, often with basic fixings. You’ll likely find instructions for assembly but rarely any drawers, cable management solutions, or accessories like mouse pads – these are almost always sold separately.
I've noticed my new desk doesn't have a power supply. Do I need to buy one?
Many desks only include the space for a power supply; you’ll need to purchase a suitable PSU and cable if your monitor, keyboard, or other peripherals require one. Check compatibility carefully before purchasing.
What kind of cables do I need to consider when setting up my desk?
Think about the length and type of connectors needed for your computer, monitor, printer, and any other devices. Consider a cable management tray or sleeves to keep things tidy and prevent tangles.
Should I buy a keyboard wrist rest? Is it necessary?
While not essential, a wrist rest can provide extra comfort if you spend long periods typing. Look for one that comfortably fits your keyboard and supports your wrist posture – check dimensions beforehand.
What about cable management solutions? Are they worth the investment?
Cable management products like trays, sleeves, and ties are highly recommended to prevent cables from becoming a tangled mess. They improve desk aesthetics and can make it easier to access connections.
Do I need a separate monitor stand? Some desks have adjustable height.
While some desks incorporate adjustable monitor stands, many don’t. A dedicated stand is useful for raising your monitor to an ergonomic height for better posture and viewing comfort.
What about desk lamps or task lighting?
Many desks lack built-in lighting, so you'll likely need a separate desk lamp for focused work. Consider the brightness and colour temperature of the bulb to suit your needs.
Are desk organisers essential, or just an afterthought?
Desk organisers are incredibly useful for keeping stationery, pens, and other small items tidy and within easy reach. Choose one that suits your workflow and desk size.
What about a mouse pad? Do I need to buy one separately?
Most desks don’t include a mouse pad, so you'll likely want one for comfort and to protect your desktop surface from scratches. Consider the size and surface material to suit your needs.
How do I find information about warranty or returns for the accessories I purchase?
Warranty and return details are determined by the manufacturer of each accessory and, in the case of Amazon purchases, their standard return policy which you can review on the product page.
In depth
A sturdy office desk is a fantastic foundation for any home workspace, but it’s rarely complete out of the box. Alongside the main structure, there's a whole ecosystem of accessories that significantly impact comfort, productivity, and overall functionality. Understanding what’s typically *not* included and what you might want to add upfront can save considerable time and money later on.
Firstly, consider power. Most desks don’t come with integrated charging solutions. A multi-device charging station – capable of handling smartphones, tablets, and perhaps a wireless phone charger – is almost essential in today's work environment. Think about the number of devices you regularly use alongside your computer and factor in sufficient ports and outlets. Cable management becomes crucial here; a tidy desk equals a tidy mind, so invest in cable clips, ties or even a cable sleeve to prevent tangles.
Next, let’s look at storage – both immediate and longer-term. While some desks might offer a small drawer, you'll likely need additional solutions. Desk drawers are hugely popular for keeping documents and smaller items organized. Consider the size of your desk surface area when deciding on drawer dimensions - too large and they will dominate the space; too small and you won’t be able to store much. Storage boxes or trays offer flexible storage options, particularly useful for stationary, pens, and other supplies.
Ergonomics are paramount, so don't overlook accessories that prioritize comfort. A monitor stand is a worthwhile investment if your screen isn't already at eye level – it raises the display to a more comfortable viewing height, reducing neck strain. Similarly, a keyboard tray can be beneficial for those who prefer to work with a laptop and want to free up desk space. Wrist rests for both keyboards and mice are often overlooked but provide crucial support during extended use.
Lighting is another frequently underestimated element. While your desk lamp may suffice initially, consider adjustable task lighting – perhaps an LED desk lamp with multiple brightness settings and a flexible arm – offering greater control over illumination levels and direction. This can significantly reduce eye strain and improve focus, particularly in rooms with poor natural light.
Finally, think about surface protection. Even the most durable desks are susceptible to scratches and spills. A felt mat or protective pad placed beneath your keyboard and mouse will safeguard against wear and tear and prevent items from sliding around. Consider a desk organiser too - these can come in various shapes and sizes but offer great storage for stationery and small tools, keeping your workspace clutter-free.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.