
With laptop computers becoming more and more common and even replacing monitors in some households, lap desks are an increasingly useful item to have on hand. For those who prefer to perch their laptops on their laps instead of a desk, lap desks can prevent the laptop from overheating or even burning the users’ legs.
What Should You Consider in a Lap Desk?
Lap desks come in a range of sizes and colors. Consider if you want a lap desk that is thick and plush or on the thinner side. Some are entirely soft while some have a thin layer of wood or plastic for the laptop to rest upon. Others provide additional features, such as a built-in cooling stand or a slot to hold your cell phone.
Best Overall: LapGear Designer Lap Desk

Style and comfort together in one lap desk. The designer fabric-covered pillow will conform to the shape of your lap while the hard surface keeps your laptop steady. Comes with a built-in slot to hold your cell phone horizontally, and a strap across one corner to secure any papers or photos on hand. The smooth wood-inspired surface is also designed to allow for optimal laptop ventilation to prevent overheating.
LapGear Designer Lap Desk with Phone Holder and Device Ledge - Gray Damask - Fits up to 15.6 Inch Laptops - Style No. 45424
A stylish and comfortable lap desk designed to accommodate all your belongings.
Best Design: Honey-Can-Do Portable Laptop Lap Desk

The solid surface and fabric-less pad make this lap desk a breeze to care for and clean. The cushion contains space to run your laptop cord through in order to prevent rips and tangling. The padding is also removable if you don’t want or need extra cushioning, or if you simply want to slim it down for traveling. The built-in handle and compact, lightweight size only add to this lap desk’s portability. Equally useful for tablets in addition to laptops and available in several different colors.
Honey-Can-Do TBL-03540 Portable Laptop Lap Desk with Handle, Mint, 23 L x 16 W x 2.5 H
A compact lap desk with a removable cushion and built-in handle for maximum portability.
Also Consider: ECR4Kids The Surf Portable Lap Desk

Weighing in at only three and a half pounds, this lap desk combines a desk and chair in one easily portable package. Easy to clean and safety-tested, the weight of your body keeps the desk upright while the angled work surface promotes good posture. An ideal solution when there’s no conventional workspace available, or for those days when you want to work outside without sitting directly on the ground or risk dirtying your laptop.
ECR4Kids - ELR-15810-RD The Surf Portable Lap Desk, Flexible Seating for Homeschool and Classrooms, One-Piece Writing Table for Kids, Teens and Adults, GREENGUARD [Gold] Certified, Red
A desk and chair combo, ideal for outdoor usage or when there's no conventional surfaces available.