If you want to minimize the overall stress on your body, finding the best under desk keyboard tray can be a great solution.
Why? Well, most of us sit in one position for too long, usually with poor posture, when we work long hours at a desk. An under desk keyboard is ergonomically better-suited to greater comfort.
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And of course, people love using an under desk keyboard tray for the space it frees up on the desktop. Even though it can feel like an unnecessary purchase at first, much like laptop stands, you may find it surprising just how much they can improve your daily work routine.
And along those lines, if you’re interested in more workplace comfort, check out our best laptop stands feature, the best ergonomic keyboards, the best office chairs and the best ergonomic mouse pads.
What is an Under Desk Keyboard Tray?
An under desk keyboard tray is an accessory you can attach to most tabletops to help improve your posture with a better arm and wrist placement. This improved placement will reduce the overall strain you put on your back, arm, and wrist muscles when working long hours. Most of the time, these are pull-out trays, meaning they only need to be pulled out when in use, keeping your space clutter-free.
Also, these are great for increasing the space available on your desk. Depending on what type of desk you use, there are quite a few options available for both standing and sit desks.
Most of the time these under desk keyboard trays are attached by a clamp and are retractable. That said, quite often their mechanism is an adjustable height or folding hybrid that allows users to adjust the keyboard drawer or tray in a way that suits their height and work needs best.
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7 Best Under Desk Keyboard Trays in 2022
- VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray 26 x 11” — The best under desk keyboard tray overall (Editor’s Choice)
- HUANUO Keyboard Tray Under Desk — The best adjustable keyboard tray
- Mount-It! Ergonomic Keyboard Drawer — The best wide keyboard tray
- Seville Classics Airlift Ergonomic Desk Tray — A pull-out tray with cord management
- VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray 26 x 12” — The best budget under desk keyboard tray
- Stand Up Desk Store Large Retractable Keyboard Tray — The best choice for minimalists
- VIVO Clamp-On Tilting Keyboard Tray 26 x 9” — The best lightweight tilting keyboard tray
What is the under desk keyboard tray in 2022?
VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray 26 x 11” is the best under desk keyboard tray overall. Check out the table to see a comparison of the other best keyboard trays to pick most suitable for you.
How to Choose the Best Under Desk Keyboard Trays
Picking the best under-desk keyboards can be a bit confusing if you’re not sure what to look for, so we’ve highlighted some of the important criteria to look for.
Overall Comfort
The most important factor by far is comfort and with this, it comes down to build quality along with the features and height adjustability. Several ergonomic keyboards under desks these days offer convenient features like wrist rests and tiltable platforms to prevent you from straining your wrists.
And if you’re using a sit-stand desk or want more versatility to your tray, consider making sure the angle and height of the tray itself are adjustable and easy to use. It may seem unimportant at first, but a huge part of what makes a tray ergonomic is its range of height and posture adjustments, with the convenience and comfort that flexibility can afford users.
Design and Quality
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Looking at the design and quality of the product is important because a keyboard tray will face extensive use and it features a certain aesthetic depending on the design.
Size and Adjustability
Where you want to use your tray and the kind of work you do will determine the best size for your tray. Some use their keyboard trays for drawing tablets or other interactive devices. What do you have in mind for your tray?
Also if you’re traveling from place to place or even someone who is likely to move your workspace around a lot, portability can play a huge role. For that reason, it’s important for you to look at the weight and dimensions of the tray and see if it is the best fit for you. It is also important to pay attention to the width of the tray depending on how much space you need for your keyboard and mouse movement.
It is necessary to have adjustments in both height and angle for a keyboard because whoever uses it should be able to easily adjust the tray. This is helpful for people of varying heights to adjust the typing position relative to the desk and the monitor in all different positions.
Stability
The key factor while purchasing a keyboard tray is the stability that it holds because as you start working with the keyboard and mouse, you will start applying pressure.
This pressure varies at times and in areas of the tray. It is frustrating for normal use to feel flimsy, so the stability of the tray should withstand time and pressure.
Compatibility
If you have a table or desk where your monitor is, you must make sure you can fit in this keyboard tray. Most keyboard designs feature a way to install in a long track that can run into, beneath, or crouch (crouch? I don’t understand what you mean by this word. Consider rephrasing) at the sides of the desks.
You must ensure to find the keyboard trays that are adjustable and compatible with the devices and furniture you have.
Durability
The key to the most comfortable zone is durability or sturdiness. The keyboard that you choose must be durable and small, reducing your steam to your hands, fingers, and wrist. Having a durable keyboard not only reduces your strain but also will speed up the typing process.
7 Best Keyboard Trays for Under Desk in 2022
If you’re looking for the best keyboard tray for under desk or an adjustable keyboard tray for under desk, check out your options below as we have listed all the best under desk keyboard mounts available in 2022.
1. VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray 26 x 11” (Editor’s Choice)
The best under desk keyboard tray overall
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Size: 26 x 11 inches | Weight: 10.5 lbs | Color: Black, Dark Wood, Light Wood, and White | Adjustable: No
The VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray is the most popular underdesk keyboard tray out there right now. Its strong and sturdy build makes this clamp-on keyboard tray a great choice for those trying to optimize their workspace.
The Clamp-on Under Desk Slider also comes in a variety of colors, allowing for a wider variety of choices in workspace aesthetics. Two major reasons we picked this as our best under desk tray are its impressive size and sturdy build. With its simple, straightforward assembly, this one is a great choice.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Suitable for large-sized keyboard | ➖ Not adjustable |
| ➕ Large space for accessories | |
| ➕ 11 lbs weight capacity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Save Desk Space - This 26.8” (32.5" including clamps) x 11” under-desk keyboard tray holds your keyboard, mouse, and other small accessories below the desktop for added work space. PLEASE NOTE:...
- Comfortable Typing Angles - Easily slide the tray in and out and enjoy ergonomic typing angles that relieve stress on your wrists and shoulders. The tray extends a maximum of 8.5” from the edge of...
- Sturdy C-Clamps - Attach the keyboard tray to your workstation without causing any damage to your desk (1.25” Maximum Desk Thickness) with sturdy C-clamps that hold everything tightly in place and...
- Easy Installation - All necessary hardware and instructions are provided for assembly, and mounting your keyboard tray to the desk is an easy process with the adjustable clamps. The tray holds weights...
- We've Got You Covered - This product comes with a limited 3-year Manufacturer Warranty, as well as friendly tech support to help with any questions or concerns.
2. HUANUO Keyboard Tray Under Desk
The best adjustable keyboard tray
Size: 25.9 x 11.3 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 11.92 lbs | Color: Brown | Adjustable: Yes
For an under desk keyboard tray with the most versatility, the HUANUO Keyboard Tray is the best option out there. This stylish brown tray comes with a wrist rest and a sturdy, durable build quality.
What makes this keyboard tray unique is the fact that it allows for both vertical and horizontal adjustment. While this might not sound like much, it makes it a great choice for sit-stand desks and any workstation that might require you to move around.
One major drawback with this under desk keyboard tray, however, is that it requires someone experienced in DIY set up as you will have to manually attach it to your desk with screws (which isn’t as complex as it may sound). So for that reason, this keyboard is the perfect choice granted you can handle more technical assembly.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Both vertical and horizontal adjustments | ➖ Expensive |
| ➕ Built quality of the tray | |
| ➕ 11 lbs weight capacity |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Height Adjustable Keyboard Tray - The keyboard tray with a total of 7.08 inches of height adjustment, this under desk keyboard tray will let you sit and stand at your desk and achieve better...
- Full Motion Design - Articulating tray can be swiveled easily 180 degrees left-to-right and tilted by 6 degrees up and 22 degrees down. You also have the ability to adjust the height to achieve your...
- 10 Mins Fast Installation - All necessary hardware and instructions are provided for assembly. You can complete it within 10 minutes according to the manual. Save your time.
- Deluxe Universal - Comes with a 25" x 9.8" smooth and large surface. This desk mount keyboard tray provides plenty of space for a full-size keyboard and a mouse side by side. Gel wrist rest pad help...
- Save Space - Placing the keyboard and the mouse on an ergonomic tray improves comfort and creates additional space on the desktop. When not in use, the sliding keyboard tray disappears under the desk.
3. Mount-It! Ergonomic Keyboard Drawer
The best ergonomic under desk keyboard tray
Size: 21 x 11.75 inches | Weight: 4.21 lbs | Color: Black | Adjustable: Yes
When it comes to ergonomic keyboard trays with wrist rests, the Mount-It! Ergonomic Keyboard Drawer is a perfect choice. This tray also comes with a pull-out mouse platform, which ensures the tray itself does not get too cluttered.
And you can also adjust this keyboard tray for height, which works well for sit-stand desks. The adjustable height also is good for your posture and comfortable positioning of your arms.
One drawback is that this tray has screws and requires a little mechanical know-how for installation. But if you’re looking for a comfortable under-table keyboard tray, this one from Mount-it! makes for a good choice.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Separate and pull-out mouse platform | ➖ Low weight capacity |
| ➕ It supports large-sized keyboards | |
| ➕ Long warranty available |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- UNDER DESK KEYBOARD SHELF: Free up desktop space and create a less cluttered more efficient work area with our sliding keyboard platform. It offers ample keyboard and mouse space while stowing away...
- SLIDING KEYBOARD DRAWER UNDER DESK: Thanks to smooth steel ball bearing glide tracks, it easily slides out for use and back under the desk when not in use.
- HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE: It can be installed at 3 different height levels to suit the optimal keyboard height comfort.
- ERGONOMIC: Locating your keyboard and mouse lower than the monitor and desktop allows you to position your elbows and wrists in optimal angle, to help prevent carpal tunnel and other injuries.
- MOUSE PLATFORM: Dedicated mouse platform can be installed on the right or left side of the keyboard platform.
4. Seville Classics Airlift Ergonomic Desk Tray
A pull-out keyboard tray with cord management
Size: 31.5 x 11 inches | Weight: 11 lbs | Color: Black | Adjustable: No
The Seville Classics Airlift Ergonomic Desk Tray is a great pull-out keyboard tray that is sizable and easy to use. Although it may look a little plain, this under desk tray comes with a wire management system and is already pre-assembled. That’s a big plus for many, and for those who prefer this convenience, it’s the best bet.
This tray slides quite smoothly with its durable steel ball-bearing and bracket mechanism. So if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-set-up keyboard tray, this one from Seville is a great option.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Great adjustment options | ➖ Low weight capacity |
| ➕ Durable steel ball-bearing and bracket mechanism | |
| ➕ Setup is simple. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- EASY CLAMP-ON KEYBOARD TRAY – Simple C-clamp design attached easily to almost any size and style of computer desk, office cubicle, or electric standing desk. Clamp fits desktops 0.5" (MIN) to 1.25"...
- SMOOTH-GLIDING BALL-BEARING SLIDERS – Tray extends up to 12. 2" from below your desktop on steel ball-bearing sliders. Push it beneath the top to keep your workspace organized and safe.
- FITS LARGE COMPUTER KEYBOARDS WITH MOUSE - Tray measures 31. 5" W x 11" D. It’s perfect for full-size and ergonomic keyboards with mice. Tray holds up to 11 lbs. evenly distributed.
- BUILT-IN CORD MANAGEMENT – Guides along the rear of the desk keep mouse and keyboard cables sorted for fewer snags.
- KEYBOARD TRAY FITS MOST DESKS – Pair with the any Electric or Non-Electric Desk that has a desktop thickness of 1.25” and below (the keyboard will not work with anything thicker) to provide ample...
5. VIVO Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray 26 x 12”
The best budget under desk tray
Size: 26 x 12 inches | Weight: 8.62 lbs | Color: Black | Adjustable: No
While being the lightest option on our list, the VIVO Clamp-on Under Desk Slider Tray is also the most affordable keyboard tray out there. This tray is a great space saver and lets users type comfortably, with better posture and minimal strain on arms and wrists.
The Clamp-on under desk Slider Tray comes with a cable management feature and is scratch-resistant. This tray’s simple and easy-to-use keyboard drawer is one great option for those working with a limited budget.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Most affordable keyboard tray | ➖ Expensive without any warranty |
| ➕ Durable with good weight capacity | |
| ➕ It is scratch-resistant |
Latest Price on Amazon:
6. Stand Up Desk Store Large Retractable Keyboard Tray
The best choice for minimalists
Size: 33 x 12 x 4.75 inches | Weight: 6 lbs | Color: Black and White | Adjustable: No
When it comes to minimalist under desk keyboard trays, the Stand Up Desk Store Large Retractable Keyboard Tray. With over 27 inches in width, it offers a good amount of space. This keyboard tray comes with clamps, making it easy to install.
The tray also has an anti-slip surface and thick plastic platform, making it sturdy and practical to use. And another great under desk tray for avoiding wrist and back strain. Other than being the lightest tray on our list, this one is low-key and simple, for a minimalist office aesthetic.
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Non-slip surface | ➖ No warranty |
| ➕ Supports desk thickness of up to 15 inches | |
| ➕ Installation is easy and requires no tools. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Places your keyboard at an optimum, ergonomic height for comfortable typing; tool and modification-free attachment to front edge of desk
- 3-position height adjustable to 2.69", 3.44", and 4.19" beneath the desk.
- Placing keyboard beneath desktop increases usable desktop space; retractable keyboard tray slides out of the way when not in use
- Overall dimensions are 33" W x 12" D x 4.75" H; tray dimensions are 27.5" W x 12" D x 1" H; works with desktops up to 1.5" thick
- Stand Up Desk Store is a US-based company and stands behind all items we sell; this item comes with a 5-year limited warranty against defects
7. VIVO Clamp-On Tilting Keyboard Tray 26 x 9”
The best tilting keyboard tray
Size: 27.56 x 12.2 x 6.06 inches | Weight: 9.42 lbs | Color: Black | Adjustable: Yes
When it comes to tilting under-table keyboard trays, the VIVO Clamp-On Tilting Keyboard Tray 26” x 9” is a great choice. Like several of the other Vivo keyboard trays on this list, this one comes with a durable and steady build, reinforced with sturdy clamps and levers to ensure a comfortable workstation.
This convenient tilting keyboard tray is also adjustable, and you can tighten the lever at different angles for easy positioning. With enough space to accommodate almost all the keyboards and mice out there, this tilting tray is one of the best ways for users to win back their workspace!
Pros |
Cons |
| ➕ Comfortable with sturdy clamps and levers | ➖ Mouse tray is not included |
| ➕ Easily adjustable | |
| ➕ You can tilt it at any angle |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Tilting Keyboard Tray - This 25.5” (31.3” including clamps) x 9” keyboard tray holds your keyboard, mouse, and other small accessories at an ergonomic tilted angle for typing and arm comfort....
- Ergonomic Orientation - Extending your workspace and placing your keyboard closer to you makes it possible to sit further back from the monitor screen, thus helping your eyes and improving posture all...
- Sturdy C-Clamps - Attach the keyboard tray to your workstation without causing any damage to your desk (1.6” maximum desk thickness) with sturdy C-clamps that hold everything tightly in place and...
- Easy Installation - All necessary hardware and instructions are provided for simple assembly, and mounting your keyboard tray to the desk is an easy process with the adjustable clamps. The tray holds...
- We've Got You Covered - This keyboard tray comes with a limited 3-year Manufacturer Warranty, as well as friendly tech support to help with any questions or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best under-desk keyboard tray overall?
Overall, the best under-desk keyboard tray is the VIVO Clamp-on Under-Desk Tray.
Are keyboard trays helpful?
Yes, they are! First, keyboard trays free up space on your desk. And also, because of their placement, improve your posture and reduce overall physical strain while you work.
How do keyboard trays relieve or prevent pain?
Keyboard trays help reduce the overall pressure you put on your wrists, shoulders, and back while also improving your posture.
What is a great adjustable keyboard tray?
The best adjustable under-desk tray is the HUANUO Keyboard tray.
What is the most affordable keyboard tray?
The most affordable would be the VIVO Clamp-on under-desk keyboard tray.
What is a good pull-out tray for minimalists?
A good pull-out tray option would be the Stand Up Desk Store Large Retractable Keyboard Tray.
What is a good ergonomic under-desk keyboard tray?
A good ergonomic keyboard tray is the Mount-it! Ergonomic Keyboard Tray that comes with a wrist rest.
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Best Under Desk Keyboard Tray in 2022 Summary
Fortunately, finding and buying the best under desk keyboard can be a pretty straightforward process. Build quality, adjustability, and size play important roles, so make sure you pay attention there. And then also note whether it is an easy-to-install clamp tray or a more complicated installation.
With all the best choices that we’ve gone over in our list, you now have a better idea of what the best under desk keyboard tray might look like for you!