The 11 Best Places to Buy a Desk Online of 2023

Amazon

Since its inception in 1994, Amazon has grown to be the number one online retailer in the United States, so it comes as no surprise that it makes our list—Amazon is also one of the best places to buy a couch. At the time of writing, a search of the word “desk” on the site yields over 9,000 results, but where Amazon is really handy is in allowing you to narrow your searches by material, price range, color, style, and so much more. 

What makes Amazon so special is that it carries so many different brands, while also selling affordable products from its own line. These include the versatile Amazon Basics Classic Home Office Computer Desk, which is affordable, easy to assemble, and ideal for small spaces.

One thing to be aware of when purchasing from Amazon is the quality of the products. Some items may seem great for their lower price, but they may not hold up over time. Fortunately, Amazon offers free returns on a lot of products, and customer reviews can really help to guide you during purchasing. The company does offer installment payments on select items, and if you are a Prime member, you open a whole new world of free two-day shipping and potential discounts. Warranties do vary, so be sure to look at the specifics before purchasing.

_{Customer Service Options: Desk assembly service for an added fee | Return Window: 30 days (with some exceptions) | Return Policy: Furniture can be returned for any reason within 30 days; free return or replacement in cases of a damaged or defective product | Payment Options: Credit or debit}

Pottery Barn

Founded in 1949, Pottery Barn has gone on to establish itself as a staple of craftsmanship in home furnishings. The products made by the brand fit into more classical motifs, but it also integrates modern and contemporary styles as well. Pottery Barn sells a wide range of desks (134 items come up when you search “desk”), and most are made with wood in more neutral finishes. For something more classical, we really like the Fallon Secretary Desk with Drawers to help keep you organized. Conversely, for something that feels more modern and sleek, the clean lines of the Connor Writing Desk make it a great choice. Just be sure to heed Elderot’s advice and make sure that the style and color of the desk “complement[s] the existing decor and color scheme of the room.”

One thing to be aware of when purchasing from Pottery Barn is that the quality of the materials and craftsmanship tends to make everything more expensive, but for the reputability and durability that come attached to the brand, it’s a worthwhile investment in our books. Plus, it does offer Affirm financing if you’re interested in a monthly payment plan. The brand also offers a white glove delivery service for a fee, which includes delivery and assembly. Note that it only allows eligible items to be returned within a 30-day window, and it offers no warranties.

_{Customer Service Options: Free interior design service | Return Window: 30 days | Return Policy: Item must be damage-free; made-to-order items are non-returnable | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal, Affirm}

Anthropologie

You may be surprised to see Anthropologie on our list, as many people don’t realize it’s more than a clothing brand. However, since its inception in 1992, the brand has gone on to establish itself not only for its chic clothing but also for its well-made and elegant furniture. If you’re looking for something somewhat more traditional looking, the Wallace Cane and Oak Desk is a great option. But, we are talking about Anthropologie here, so we would be remiss to not include something with a more funky and unique design, like the Optical Inlay Desk which features an intricate pattern and brass hardware. Importantly, though, with interesting pieces, be sure to follow Elderot’s advice: “The color of the desk should complement the existing decor in the room.”

In addition to being able to purchase through its website, Anthropologie has over 200 locations worldwide, and the website will let you know whether or not the product you’re eyeballing is available for in-store pickup. One thing to be aware of is that Anthropologie can have longer delivery windows, with products sometimes taking two to four weeks (potentially longer, even) to deliver. However, it does offer delivery with white glove service for a fee. The site also notes that it doesn’t offer any warranties unless they are noted when you purchase.

_{Customer Service Options: Desk assembly service for an added fee | Return Window: 30 days (with some exceptions) | Return Policy: Furniture can be returned for any reason within 30 days; free return or replacement in cases of a damaged or defective product | Payment Options: Credit or debit}

Wayfair

Founded in 2002, Wayfair has established itself during the internet age as a go-to online retailer; when you search “desks” on its website, over 100,000 results come up. Fortunately, the filter options on the side allow you to sort based on things like color, shape, price, and other features. If you are looking for something super affordable, we love the Folkston 40" desk by Zipcode Design, which has stylish hairpin legs made of metal, which Elderot likes for its strength. If you want something that has more of a mid-century modern flair, the Isberga 42” desk by George Oliver combines acacia wood with the height and sleek angularity commonly associated with the style.

One thing to be wary of with Wayfair is that some more affordable choices can be made from less durable materials. You will most likely have to assemble your own furniture. The review sections tend to be very robust to offer you a chance to see exactly what you can expect in terms of assembly and durability.

If you decide to return something to Wayfair, you have 30 days to do it, and there will be a return charge, but the amount varies depending on your location and the size and weight of the item, and there is no option to return in person, as the company has no physical storefronts. A lot of products sold through the website do have free shipping, which is a plus. Be aware that warranties vary, depending on what you are purchasing, so be sure to read that on the product’s page.

_{Customer Service Options: Desk assembly service for an added fee | Return Window: 30 days (with some exceptions) | Return Policy: Furniture can be returned for any reason within 30 days; free return or replacement in cases of a damaged or defective product | Payment Options: Credit or debit}

CB2

Founded in 2002, CB2 is Crate & Barrel’s sister brand. It takes the quality of Crate & Barrel and adds some modern elements. You can get some great traditional-looking desks at CB2, like the Drommen 3-Drawer Wood Desk, which is made of acacia, has warmer tones, and features a flip-down center drawer. But if you want something more unique that screams CB2, we highly recommend the Marisa Burl Wood Desk. Elderot notes that “solid wood desks are a popular choice due to their timeless aesthetic and durability,” and this wood choice with a minimalist design lets the swirling grain of the burl wood do all the talking. 

One thing to be aware of with CB2 is that it can be pricey. Additionally, the shipping fee is determined by the cost of your product, with items over $250.01 incurring a 10% shipping fee. However, CB2 does have 24 locations, and the website will let you know if what you’re interested in is available for pickup at the location nearest you. If you open a CB2 credit card, you’ll have the option of earning 10 percent back in rewards dollars, or of paying zero interest if you pay off your item within 24 months. Items can be returned within 30 days, but CB2 offers no refunds on the shipping and handling fees.

_{Customer Service Options: Assembly service through partnership with Handy (a third-party service), In-Home Delivery option, Interior design service | Return Window: 30 days | Return Policy: Customer pays for return shipping and pickup fees; custom furniture is non-returnable | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal}

Article

When it launched in 2013, Article set out to separate itself by making high-quality pieces of furniture at reasonable prices. In that time, the brand has accomplished that goal and then some through its contemporary, mid-century, and modern pieces. Currently, it sells 13 desks, the most expensive of which is still under $1,200. In particular, we like the Valis Oak Desk, which is a versatile pick that can be used either as a place for working or as a decorative piece for your entryway. If you’re looking for something with shelves, the Fantol Oak Leaning Desk features two elegant shelves above the desk so you can keep your workspace decorated and efficient.  In addition to the reasonable prices, the company offers Affirm so you can make monthly payments.

One drawback with ordering from Article is that it doesn’t have any showrooms, so you’ll have to rely heavily on your own research and reading customer reviews on the website to make sure it’s exactly what you’re looking for. It also has a 30-day return policy that will incur shipping fees. Article offers front-door delivery for free on orders over $999, and for $49 on all other orders. For $119, the brand provides an in-room delivery service, but you will still have to unbox the item on your own. Items come with a one-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

_{Customer Service Options: White glove assembly service for an added fee | Return Window: 30 days (with some exceptions) | Return Policy: Furniture can be returned for any reason within 30 days; free return or replacement in cases of a damaged or defective product | Payment Options: Credit or debit, Paypal}

Urban Outfitters

In the 50 years since it was founded, Urban Outfitters has become a mainstay of American fashion. That also extends into furniture, where you can expect to find eclectic styles, including the company’s newest line, which focuses on post-modern lines and interesting pops of color. 

The desks that Urban Outfitters sells are as eclectic as the rest of its furniture; you’ll find something for the bohemian in you just as easily as you’ll find something that suits your more industrial side. We particularly love the Marte Vanity, which combines the bohemian flair of rattan accents with a mid-century-modern-inspired silhouette.

One drawback with Urban Outfitters is that shipping can get quite costly. For example, the Marte Vanity mentioned above has a flat rate of $99 to be delivered. Fortunately, with over 180 stores across the U.S., you may be able to find something you’re looking for in the Urban nearest you.

The brand offers Afterpay so you can split your purchase into four payments. It is worth noting, though, that although furniture returns are allowed within 30 days, you cannot return them to a store and some are even subject to a restocking fee. You may, however, be able to return your furniture within a year if there are defects. 

_{Customer Service Options: N/A | Return Window: 30 days (with some exceptions) | Return Policy: Furniture can be returned for any reason within 30 days; returns for damaged or defective products allowed within 1 year | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal}

Branch

Branch began in 2018 as a remedy for overpriced and poor-quality office furniture. The result is a selection of products that are as affordable as they are designed with functionality and quality in mind. The Office Desk has a sleek design that features a steel frame that supports over 650 pounds. An MDF top can be purchased in woodgrain, white, walnut, or fog so you can get exactly what you want. The Standing Desk is a great choice for anybody who is trying to avoid sitting all day. With centimeter-level adjustment, you can get the perfect height for your own specific needs. 

Some reviewers note that it can be a bit challenging to assemble the desks from Branch, and the company only offers white glove delivery if you are ordering for a team of ten or more. It does offer free shipping, unless otherwise marked, and a two- to ten-year warranty, depending on what you purchase. Items that are less than $2,000 can be returned within 30 days for no restocking fee.

_{Customer Service Options: White glove delivery for an additional fee; free space plan and ideas service | Return Window: 30 days | Return Policy: Returns only available on damaged items; product must be returned in the original packaging, custom orders are non-returnable | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal, Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, Google Pay}

Ikea

IKEA has been in business for almost 80 years, and in that time the brand has made its mark with its simple “do it yourself” Scandinavian style. With desks, the MICKE is the company’s top seller, featuring a cable outlet in the back and a storage unit that you can choose to put on either the left- or the right-hand side, which is good because Elderot notes that desks without enough storage or organization options can cause clutter to accumulate quickly. This unit is available in four different color schemes. If you’re looking for something for your child, the PAHL has three different heights so it will grow with them. Both of these options are super-affordable, coming in at under $120.

When purchasing from IKEA, you’ll be better off going in person to one of the store’s locations if you live near one, because shipping starts at $19.99. Unopened products can be returned within 365 days, while opened products can be returned within 180 days. Just be sure to hold onto your receipt, because IKEA requires them for returns. The website also notes that “professional desks” have a 10-year warranty. No payment plans are listed on the site, however, IKEA does offer an IKEA Visa credit card that allows you to earn 5 percent in rewards, as well as the IKEA Projekt card that is designed for larger purchases.

Customer Service Options: Assembly service through partnership with TaskRabbit (a third-party service), online planning service appointments  | Return Window: 365 days for new and unopened products, 180 days for opened products | Return Policy: As-is products are non-returnable | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal, Apple Pay, Android Pay

Apt2B

Created in 2010 by two founders who were frustrated with the lack of quality and the overpriced nature of furniture, Apt2B sought to be the cross-section of the two. The brand sells 15 desks that would make a great addition to your home, and you’re sure to find something that fits your eye. For a more contemporary look, the Whitaker Desk comes in a dark walnut stain with clean and sharp lines. If you’re looking for something with a bit more personality, we recommend the Lofton Modular Desk. It comes in an industrial style and features excellent caliber acacia wood.

One thing to be aware of when ordering from Apt2B is that the brand offers free shipping on all orders as well as 100-day returns. It has no physical storefronts, but the site is very intuitive and easy to use. Shipping can take longer, with some products taking five to ten days just for processing. If you are looking to finance, Apt2B uses Bread Pay so that you won’t have to pay all at once. Most products feature a warranty, with items like wood frames being covered for life. Be sure to look into the warranty of your specific item before purchasing. 

_{Customer Service Options: White glove (room of choice) delivery and assembly for an added fee | Return Window: 100 days | Return Policy: Return costs will be deducted from your refund and are only covered when the item received is damaged; must be returned in the original packaging and in unused or like-new condition | Payment Options: Credit or debit, PayPal, Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, Google Pay}