Desks vs. Tables in the Classroom

When it comes to classroom layout, desks and tables are the main building blocks towards how a space will function. While classroom space often drives buying decisions, there are other points to consider when selecting your furniture.

Desks

School desks are the traditional choice for classrooms. They come in many styles like open front, lift lid, standing, tablet arm and more. Open-front desks are our top sellers because they offer plenty of storage and come at an affordable price.

Why desks are a good choice for classrooms:

• Desks can be pushed as far apart as needed for testing or social distancing as well as grouped together for collaborative projects.
• Most desks are height adjustable so they provide a comfortable workspace for students of any age or size.
• In general, desks provide more personal storage than tables. Most desks include a bookbox, wire basket or some other type of storage for books and tablets.
• Desks are easy for one person - a teacher, student or custodian - to move for cleaning or classroom rearranging.
• Desks fit into smaller spaces so they can be used in classrooms of any size or even in a homeschool arrangement.

Tables

Tables have become increasingly popular in classrooms in the last decade as the education module has shifted more towards collaborative learning. Science and art classrooms have always relied on tables because of the extra room they provide, but now tables can be seen at classroom levels from preschool to college.

Why tables are a good choice for classrooms:

• Tables allow students to spread out more than desks and the looser vibe can help some students feel more comfortable with their surroundings.
• Students can easily share supplies and resources when collaborating at a table.
• Teachers can assist more students at a time when the children are seated at a table. Certain table shapes like the kidney and horseshoe are specifically designed so that all children can have eye contact with the teacher who sits in the middle.
• Cleaning a handful of classroom tables is easier than wiping down 20 to 30 individual desks.

Best of Both Worlds

Since both tables and desks have multiple advantages, many schools have begun adding both to their classrooms. The mix of furniture styles allows students to thrive through individual and collaborative learning.

Tables

• Better collaboration
• More open workspace
• Easier to assist students
• Many table shapes available
• Easier to clean

Desks

• Allows for social distancing
• More storage
• Private work area for testing
• Height can be adjusted to fit each student
• Easier to move
• Takes up less space