Wooden VS Metal Computer Desk: Which Is Worth Buying?

If you are considering buying a new computer desk, but are not sure which is better, a wooden desk or metal desk, this post might be for you. 

In this article, I’m going to talk about which computer desk you should buy and why. That’s very important for you to know if you want to make the right decision. So, 

Wooden vs Metal Computer Desk, here’s the difference:

Wooden computer desks are beautiful, comfortable to work at, and durable to last for years, but they easily get scratches and are also pricey. Whereas metal computer desks are meant to be sturdy, have sleek designs, and don’t require much maintenance but are heavy.

Of course, each has its pros and cons that make them different from one another. So, before reaching out to any decision, you must be aware of it.

Let’s take a closer look.

Why Should You Buy a Wooden Computer Desk?

These are some of the advantages of wooden computer desks that make them worth buying. 

1. Wooden Desks are Durable

A wooden desk could be a great investment because of its durability whether you’re setting up a regular work computer desk or gaming workstation. 

Wooden desks have a rigid core that’s made from solid timber (natural wood). This is what makes a wooden desk so durable and gives endurance.

And this durability of a wooden desk allows you to use it more often and for a long period of time as it will last longer. 

2. Stronger Than Plywood and Particle Board 

Compared to other materials like particleboard, laminate, and plywood, computer desks made of solid wood are stronger.

This natural wood has the ability to withstand sudden impacts, scratches, dents, and other damages than the engineered wood that fails to deal with. 

And when the wooden desks are made, after finishing it gives a very dense yet comfortable work surface. 

This is why wooden desks have a longer life. It only requires proper care and maintenance from time to time. 

3. Natural Looking Wood Finish

The main benefit of a wooden computer desk is the aesthetic which is a natural-looking wood finish. 

When a wooden computer desk is finished making, it gives the desk a genuine wood finish which looks very attractive.

This natural aesthetic can make your setup look elegant and more modern. Even if the desk isn’t properly maintained, the finish remains attractive.

Whereas for other types of desk material, this finish is achieved by coating and painting which are chemical-based and non-environment friendly.

4. Desk for Every Setup Needs

With the above benefits, wooden desks are also popular for their limitless style and color options for every setup need.

No matter if you’re looking for a desk for home office setup, regular work, gaming setup, or other purposes, wooden desks can come exactly what you’re expecting.

From straight desk to L-shaped desk, expensive to affordable, minimal style to desk with special features, you can get wooden desks with limitless options. 

Also, you can get wooden computer desks in exactly what your home color layout is. This flexibility makes sure you can upgrade your setup the way you want.

5. Easier for Cable Management

Another thing which you can find handy with a wooden computer desk is cable management. It is easier to manage cords of computer essentials while setting up the desk.

Since wooden desks have a thick frame as compared to metal desks, you can easily hide the cords of electronics behind the desk frames.

Whereas many metal desks have glass tabletop and show the cables clearly, a wooden tabletop makes it for you to hide those cables completely.

This is how you achieve a nice and clean, less-clutter desk setup, whether it is a home office or a gaming setup.

6. Modifiable for Longer Life

Another major thing that makes wooden desks worth investing in than metal desks is their ability to modify for a longer lifespan. 

This means if your wooden desk gets damaged, scratched, or any kind of dent, you can easily refine it to its new look by painting, sanding, and with little effort. 

All it requires is a skill. 

Or if your desk is not in a condition to be refined, you can easily replace the damaged parts such as legs and tabletop, and make it function properly. 

Why You Should Not Buy a Wooden Computer Desk

With so many advantages, there are also downsides of wooden computer desks which you might not like. 

1. Wooden Desks Can Cost You More

Hunting for a good quality wooden computer desk may cost you more than a typical metal desk or the same size particle board desk.

This is because wooden desks are made of either hardwood or softwood, and these are the type of natural wood.

It is also no surprise that natural wood has more density than engineered wood (Plywood, Particleboard, Medium Density Fibreboard). 

And since natural wood grows at a slower rate than the production rate of metal and engineered wood composite, therefore the price is higher.

2. Prone to Getting Damages Easily

Another downside of a wooden desk is that they are prone to getting scratches, spots, or damages easily as compared to the metal desk.

No matter how durable a wooden desk is and what coating is applied, any sharp or heavy objects can easily scratch the desk and ruin its shine.

And there is no other way to revamp your wooden desk from these scratches, dents, or spots until you repair it via painting or policing the desk. 

3. Moving & Shifting is Hard

Most wooden computer desks have thick frames and tabletop. And if it is made out of hardwood, then the desk may be heavier than the typical metal or softwood desks.

The problem with this desk is that it takes a lot of effort when it comes to re-arrange or shifting to another place as they are way too heavy. 

And unlike metal desks which have removal parts (attached by screws or bolts), wooden decks don’t allow detaching the parts, they come in a fixed frame.

Ultimately it becomes a little difficult to carry and move the wooden desk.

4. Moisture or Water Damage

Moisture or water not only damages your computer and other electronics but is also very harmful to your wooden computer desk.

If your computer desk is not protected and exposed to water or too much moisture, it can make your desk swell, staining of finishes, and failure of joints glue.

If it happens, it can significantly impact the lifespan of your desk, its natural finish, and potentially ruin the aesthetic. 

So, if you’re someone who wants to keep a cup of coffee or tea while working at the desk, you’ll have to be well concerned about this damage. 

Why Should You Buy a Metal Computer Desk?

Metal computer desks may boast a number of worthy advantages that wooden desks do not offer. Look at some of the advantages below:

1. Sturdy and Durable

The foremost benefit of metal computer desks is that they are sturdy and last for long life. It takes a lot more effort, wears and tear for a metal desk to break or damage. 

Unlike wooden computer desks which are prone to get chipped, scratched, and damaged, metal computer desks are hard and tough to chip.

And since metal is not a natural material, metal desks are fireproof, waterproof, and finished with a coat of paint which makes them scratchproof as well.

2. Space Efficient

If you’re planning to create a minimalist kind of desk setup or your room space is a little short, then the metal computer desks are the right solution.

Metal computer desks have a sleek design and compact desk size thus they consume less space whether it is your living room, bedroom, or hall. 

And unlike wooden desks, some metal computer desks also come with adjustability which gives them the flexibility to fit easily in small spaces.

Although they are compact, still they offer enough workspace so that you can easily set up your computer essentials without feeling crowded.

3. Design Benefits

Today, metal computer desks come in different stylish designs, shapes, and attractive colors/finishes. 

No matter what your room size or theme color is. You can opt for a metal computer desk that exactly matches your room layout and decor.

You can also get a metal computer desk designed with a combination of the glass top, wooden top, laminate top, and more.

Apart from that, most metal computer desks feature additional features such as file cabinets, CPU stand, monitor stand, laptop stand, and drawers.

4. Replaceable Parts 

Since most metal computer desks come with detachable legs and tabletop, it becomes very easy to replace or repair any parts.

You only need to remove the nuts or bolts to replace their parts. This feature is very handy to repair wobbly desks or if the desk is not in stable condition.

5. Do Not Get Scratches Easily

Unlike wooden computer desks which easily get scratches and dents, with metal desks, there are fewer chances that they will get scratches.

This is because metal is very tough and not a natural element. And it can easily prevent scratches or dents from coming in contact with hard objects.

Still, if scratches appear, then the metal computer desk can be easily taken care of by coating it with paint. 

6. Moving & Shifting is So Handy

I think one of the best things which make metal computer desks worth investing in is that they are easier to lift and move.

Most metal computer desks come with detachable parts; this means the tabletop and legs are attached either by bolts or screws. 

Thus, when it comes to shifting the desk, its parts can be easily detached into pieces. No need to worry about its overall heavyweight.

7. Easy Maintenance

When it comes to cleaning and maintaining the esthetic, metal computer desks are very easy and there is no risk of damage from termites and insects.

Unlike wooden desks where you’re allowed only to use special kinds of wooden cleaning liquids, with metal desks, you’re safe with any cleaning tools.

8. Affordable

Despite being durable and attractive, one of the biggest advantages of metal computer desks is that they are affordable.

If you want to set up your computer work desk or want to set up your home office on a low budget, a metal desk could be the right choice for you.

Plus, since metal computer desks last longer and replacement cycles aren’t as frequent, it also helps save you money.

Why You Should Not Buy a Metal Computer Desk

1. Heavy to Move & Shift

The major drawback of a metal computer desk is weight. Metal desks can be quite heavy, and hence you may face difficulty in setting/moving your desk around.

It’s quite difficult to move the desk to a new location unless you take out the bolts/screws and separate the parts. 

You will most likely need some help in situations like moving the desk to a new location.

2. May Damage Your Room Floor

Another downside with metal desks is that they could damage your floor. If the desk has lost leg protectors and has sharp edges, it could leave scratches on the tile. 

Even some metal computer desks come without leg protectors and if they have poor finishing, they can damage the floor as well as the carpet.

So, before buying the desk, you’ll have to be sure whether the desk has good finishing.

3. Sharp Points and Edges

There is also a possible chance that the desk has sharp points and edges that have not been properly sanded by the desk manufacturer.

If this is the case, then the desk is not safe at all for you as it can scratch and injure your skin in many situations.

Wooden VS Metal Computer Desk: Which You Should Opt For?

When choosing a wooden or metal computer desk, it’s not just about the materials, but what matters more is what’s best suited to your setup.

Remember, there is no standard rule against having both computer desks. If you’re not sure which one you should opt for, you can get both. 

Metal computer desks are great for a minimalist yet modern setup and wooden computer desks can give your home office a professional look. You can also get a computer desk with a combination of both materials to give your setup a different look.

Conclusion

Now that I’ve shared every possible aspect of a wooden and metal computer desk, I hope you have a better understanding of both ones.

If you find this article helpful, make sure to share it on social media with your loved ones.

And if you have any suggestions or queries, write them below in the comments. I would be glad to hear from you about your feedback.

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