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If you work in an architectural, engineering, or creative field, drafting tables are likely part of your work space. They differ from a standard writing desk or table in that they’re designed specifically to have their flat surface slanted toward you at an angle, usually between 30 and 50 degrees. This angled surface creates an ergonomic position, helping to decrease the back, neck, and wrist strain that can occur after hours of working hunched over a flat desk.
While traditionally used by architects and illustrators, drafting tables work well for a variety of tasks, including sketching, crafting, painting, reviewing large documents, or writing. While all feature a flat drafting surface, various drafting tables offer other features, including adjustable height options, multiple working surfaces, storage options for art or office supplies, and more. Take a look at the top products below to get an idea of the features you need in the best drafting table for your studio, office, or work space.
- BEST OVERALL: OneSpace Silver With Blue Glass Craft Station
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: SD Studio Designs Vision Craft Station
- BEST FOR BEGINNERS: Inbox Zero Cozart Desk
- BEST FOR PROS: VersaDesk PowerLift Electric Drafting Table
- BEST STORAGE: Yaheetech Drafting Table With 3 Slide Drawers
- MOST VERSATILE: Yaheetech Height-Adjustable Drafting Table
- BEST PORTABLE: Lucky Crown US Art Adjustable Wood Desk Table
- BEST RUSTIC: SD Studio Designs Vintage Rustic Oak Drafting Table
How We Chose the Best Drafting Tables
Hobbyists and professionals alike require a comfortable work space to achieve the best results. This list of recommendations aims to include the best options available while suiting the range of features that shoppers are looking for in a drafting table.
Our research has shown that large work areas with a good range of angle adjustments are key factors to look out for, so we have made sure that all the top picks meet those needs. We have also included options for those looking for extra storage areas, as well as height-adjustable tables. Additionally, while some users already have their favorite accessories ready to pair with their new purchase, others might not have the tools. One of these picks features everything needed in a single package (stool included) for those who are just getting started.
Finally, all recommendations are made from quality materials to provide a safe and sturdy working environment.
Our Top Picks
The top-of-the-line products below were chosen for quality, efficacy, and price to help you find the best drafting table for your needs.
Best Overall
OneSpace Silver With Blue Craft Station
The OneSpace craft station is a great option that takes the strain off your back and neck while you work. It has a wide size that provides ample space for your projects, with a tabletop work surface that measures 35.75 inches wide by 23.75 inches deep. The tabletop can be adjusted from completely flat at 0 degrees to 62.5 degrees for optimal comfort while working.
The tabletop is made of blue tempered safety glass and sits on a heavy-duty steel frame. Along the side of the tabletop are storage compartments for keeping writing and drafting tools within reach, and two drawers are suitable for storing other necessary items, such as stationery, paper clips, sticky notes, or chargers.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 35.75 inches wide by 23.75 inches deep
- Material: Tempered glass top with steel frame
- Adjustability: 0 to 62.5 degrees tilt; not height adjustable
Pros
- Sturdy steel frame provides a stable working surface in sleek silver or black
- Table includes ample storage for drafting or crafting tools, including 2 drawers
- High-quality tempered-glass surface is safe, durable, and long lasting
Cons
- Drawers underneath can get in the way, especially for taller users
Get the OneSpace drafting table at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Target.
Best Bang For The Buck
SD Studio Designs Vision Craft Station
The sleek design of this affordable drafting table’s silver and blue tempered-glass tabletop and powder-coated steel frame will give any art room or office a clean, modern aesthetic, allowing you to focus your creativity on the project at hand. This drafting table can be set to between 0 and 70 degrees, depending on personal preference, making it versatile enough to serve as a surface for a range of projects—or occupants.
The tabletop measures 35.5 inches wide by 23.75 inches deep, and includes a 23.75-inch pencil storage ledge and four removable brush and pencil trays, with two on either side of the working surface. It comes with four wheels to help move the table easily, and two wheels can lock in place when ready to work. If you choose not to use the wheels or don’t plan on moving the drafting table, it also has rubber adapters or feet instead.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 35.5 inches wide by 23.75 inches deep
- Material: Tempered-glass top with powder-coated steel frame
- Adjustability: 0 to 70 degrees tilt; base is not height adjustable
Pros
- Clean, modern look can add sleek aesthetics to any space
- Tabletop includes plenty of storage space in drawers and side panels
- Locking wheels provide good mobility as well as stability once in place
- Large work area is ideal for working on oversize projects
Cons
- Not height adjustable; not ideal for extended hours of work
Get the SD Studio Designs Vision drafting table at Amazon or Best Buy.
Best For Beginners
Inbox Zero Cozart Desk
The Cozart desk from Inbox Zero offers an ideal fusion of functionality and beginner-friendly design for aspiring artists and architects. The expansive 36-inch width of the main table provides ample space for experimentation. There are several color options for the frame.
The Cozart desk boasts a convenient side table with three large drawers for organized storage and a surface at a different level to avoid knocking items off. It also includes a bottom shelf. The adjustable tabletop, tiltable up to 40 degrees, ensures comfort, while a dedicated 24-inch pencil ledge keeps essentials within easy reach—not on the floor.
This desk is made from heavy-gauge steel, guaranteeing stability. It also comes with a small padded stool—everything a beginner would require in a drafting or creative space to get started.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 36 inches wide by 23.75 inches deep
- Material: Heavy-gauge steel frame, manufactured wood top
- Adjustability: 0 to 40 degrees tilt; not height adjustable
Pros
- Stool and storage combine for a great all-round package for budding artists
- Provides plenty of storage space with side drawers and a bottom shelf
- Price is accessible as a starting point for a first drafting table
Cons
- Table surface is not as large as other options, and design not as sleek
- Lacks height adjustability
Get the Inbox Zero drafting table at Wayfair.
Best For Pros
VersaDesk PowerLift Electric Drafting Table
The VersaDesk PowerLift electric drafting table is a solution tailored for professionals. Available in 48- or 60-inch sizes and in black or white finishes, it offers customizable options to meet specific preferences. The electric height and tilt-adjustment features enhance ergonomic adaptability, and users can switch easily from a sitting to a standing height at the touch of a button.
Its modular steel frame is designed with preconfigured holes and mounts to allow for simple integration of add-ons such as computer systems, keyboard arms, trays, and monitor mounts. This functionality creates a comprehensive workstation setup. The VersaDesk PowerLift is a pragmatic choice for those seeking enhanced productivity. It has a practical and versatile design that modern professionals can adjust to suit their needs.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 48 or 60 inches wide by 30 inches deep
- Material: Powder-coated steel
- Adjustability: 0 to 40 degrees tilt; height from 31 to 47 inches
Pros
- Design is customizable with modular add-ons for technology tools
- Large tabletop surface for professionals, at 48 or 60 inches wide
- Tilt and height adjust easily with electric control panel and buttons
Cons
- Add-on features are sold separately, making this an expensive option
Get the VersaDesk drafting table at VersaDesk.
Best Storage
Yaheetech Drafting Table With 3 Slide Drawers
For working surface and storage, the Yaheetech drafting table can deliver. It has three slide drawers and the side table surface for holding tools and materials. In addition to the storage drawers, this table has an expansive lower (mid) shelf at a tilt. The 35.4-inch-wide by 23.6-inch-deep tabletop provides ample space. The worktop is also PVC coated and water-resistant to ensure durability and a smooth surface for drawing or other projects.
Artists, architects, or hobbyists might find that the Yaheetech drafting table accommodates their needs while keeping the work space clutter-free. The tabletop includes a 23.4-inch-wide pencil ledge to stop the tools from sliding off. It also comes with a basic stool.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 35.4 inches wide by 23.6 inches deep
- Material: Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) top, powder-coated steel base
- Adjustability: 0 to 40 degrees tilt; not height adjustable
Pros
- Deep shelf along the bottom of the desk provides plenty of space for art supplies
- PVC-coated work surface provides better water resistance against spills
- Side table with drawers provides an ideal space for a lamp or monitor
Cons
- MDF table top is less durable than other materials
Get the Yaheetech drafting table with slide drawers at Amazon, Walmart, or Yaheetech.
Most Versatile
Yaheetech Height-Adjustable Drafting Draft Desk
When a drafting table needs to suit a variety of needs, this adaptable, adjustable Yaheetech drafting table is an excellent option. In addition to an adjustable height and tabletop tilt, this drafting table features a slide-out secondary tabletop, adding another 23.6-inch by 15-inch surface to help hold additional items and keep the main working area free and clear of electronic devices—or clutter. The height of the table adjusts from 27.5 to 36.5 inches, and the main tabletop angle can be adjusted between 0 and 60 degrees.
The main tabletop measures 38.77 inches wide by 23.62 inches deep and includes a pencil ledge at the bottom and multiple storage locations along the right-hand side to keep writing or drawing tools handy. Alternatively, either of the two front drawers just below the tabletop can hold papers, assignments, and writing tools. This drafting table comes with a steel stool that has a cushioned seat for added comfort while working.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 38.77 inches wide by 23.62 inches deep
- Material: MDF top with iron frame
- Adjustability: 0 to 60 degrees tilt; height adjustable from 27.5 to 36.5 inches
Pros
- Secondary slide-out table provides handy supplementary space
- Height adjustability is a huge plus, considering most tables don’t have this
- Stool included for a complete package
Cons
- Fabric drawers are a little flimsy and less durable
Get the Yaheetech height-adjustable drafting table at Amazon or Yaheetech.
Best Portable
Lucky Crown US Art Adjustable Wood Desk Table
When working from home, traveling, or needing temporary space to set up a full drafting table, try a portable product like this 17-inch by 13-inch portable drawing table from Lucky Crown. The surface can be set to one of three fixed positions to find the ideal working angle. It also includes a lip on the bottom of the table surface that helps keep papers and writing tools in place when the table is set at an angle.
The table needs a flat surface that measures at least 20 inches wide by 18 inches deep to set up. This will offer enough space to position it comfortably without worrying about it slipping off the edge. When the solid wood table folds down, it can be stored easily under or beside a bed, couch, or even out in the workshop without taking up a lot of space.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 16.9 inches wide by 12.5 inches deep
- Material: Wood
- Adjustability: 3 grooves for angle adjustments
Pros
- Affordable solution for occasional use compared to standing drafting tables
- Folds flat for storage, which is ideal for those with limited space
- Lightweight and compact enough to tote around easily; simple to set up
- Suitable for all ages or locations for use; it just needs a flat surface underneath
Cons
- Smaller working area compared to larger tables
- No storage spaces for tools, pens, pencils, etc.
Get the Lucky Crown drawing board at Amazon.
Best 42-Inch
SD Studio Designs Vintage Rustic Oak Drafting Table
While this drafting table will need plenty of room in a home office or crafting space, it provides ample space for working on a variety of projects. The work surface even has enough room to support detailed blueprints. It measures 42 inches wide by 30 inches deep and sits at a fixed height of 36 inches.
This poplar wood drafting table has a rustic oak finish and a solid base with strong supports to prevent it from moving, shifting, or shaking while working. It has a built-in pencil groove and a 24-inch ledge that can hold papers, documents, pencils, or other writing utensils. If the angle isn’t right for a particular project, this table can be adjusted in a wide range of four angles, from completely flat at 0 degrees to standing upright at 90 degrees.
Product Specs
- Work surface: 42 inches wide by 30 inches deep
- Material: Solid wood
- Adjustability: 0 to 90 degrees tilt; not height adjustable
Pros
- Solid wood construction provides a classic, professional look and support
- Can tilt up to 90 degrees, which is more than other tables on this list
- Offers a large work surface that is great for blueprints or oversize projects
Cons
- Solid wood means it’s heavier than other options (also, no wheels)
Get the SD Studio Designs Vintage drafting table at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Staples.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Drafting Table
While shopping for a new drafting table, it helps to consider some critical product features such as adjustability, portability, size, construction, and extra storage space. You’ll also want to think about the types of projects you’ll be using the drafting table to complete. For example, do you need extra space for reviewing large blueprints, or will it be more important to have a secondary surface built in for a laptop or a desk lamp? Considering needs and priorities will help you find the right drafting table.
Versatility
Some drafting tables come with a fixed height and angle to the table surface, which increases the durability but limits the range of uses. If multiple people will be using the drafting table, or if you want to use it for more than one purpose, finding a versatile product will suit needs better.
Drafting tables may have wheels for portability so they can be moved around a room. Other portable options include desk toppers that sit on top of a flat surface such as a table or desk. Some tables also have adjustable angles, ranging from 0 to 90 degrees, to provide the ideal ergonomic angle for a variety of activities. Another feature to consider with a drafting table is a secondary surface for storage or materials, tools, and technology.
Size
The size of the drafting table should be determined by how it will be used and the amount of space available in the room where it will sit. It’s always a good idea to measure the space before buying a large piece of furniture, and drafting tables are no exception; choosing a table that’s too big for a work space can crowd the room. When determining enough space to work comfortably, you’ll also want to account for a chair or stool.
Drafting tables range in size from small portable desk toppers that can be used on any flat surface of appropriate size to large solid tables that provide ample room to work on more than one project at one time. Some also have a secondary surface that may require additional room to move, adjust, and properly operate.
Height
One of the main purposes of using a drafting table is to help improve posture while working and reduce the strain on muscles. That requires using a drafting table that has the correct working angle and height. Keep in mind that because each person is different, a table suited to one individual might not work for another.
To help account for any differences among the people using the drafting table, you can invest in a product with adjustable features. Some tables allow users to change the angle of the table surface as well as the height of the entire table or even just the height of the working surface. A slight adjustment can mean the difference between an aching back and comfort.
Accessories
Drafting tables can be completely plain, affording a broad, blank surface on which to work. However, many tables come with built-in or included accessories that can help keep users organized and improve work spaces, such as storage shelves or drawers, an adjustable drafting lamp, or a matching stool.
- Storage spaces can range from simple pen or pencil holders to full drawers that slide out from the bottom or side of the table, keeping all work instruments organized and in one place.
- Adjustable drafting lamps can be built into the table to provide the optimal lighting for projects, no matter the time of day or angle of the table.
- Stools and other appropriate chairs may be included with a drafting table. These seats are typically designed to fit the appearance and measurements of the table they come with, lessening the need to find and buy an appropriate chair or stool.
Material
When choosing a new drafting table, buyers will want to decide whether they prefer a table surface made of glass or wood. While both materials provide a hard, flat surface to work on, you’ll want to consider your own writing or drawing style before making a decision. Those who push down hard on a pencil or pen will want a more absorbent wooden table surface. A glass surface is less forgiving, and users run the risk of driving the tip of a writing or drawing tool through the paper. However, those with a gentle touch might prefer a glass surface for work and appearance.
You’ll also want to note the legs and frame of the drafting table. Choose a durable material like wood or steel that can absorb the regular motion and force of writing or drawing movement without shaking or swaying. This will help ensure that lines are as straight as possible and that a shaky table doesn’t ruin a masterpiece.
FAQs
Continue reading below to find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about drafting tables.
Q. Can I use a drafting table as a desk?
It depends on the specific product, but in some cases, the drafting table will be able to fold down and form a flat surface that can be used as a desk. Just keep in mind: If you elevate the angle of the tabletop, there is the risk of heavier items, like computer equipment, sliding off the edge.
Q. Do architects still use drafting tables?
Yes, architects still use drafting tables. While computer-aided design (CAD) technology has replaced much of the time an architect previously spent working at a drafting table, these tables are still used regularly to update printed designs, take notes, and work out creative ideas by hand.
Q. What angle is a drafting table?
The ideal angle of your drafting table is dependent on your personal preference, but the angle typically ranges from 30 to 45 degrees. Some drafting tables allow for adjustments between 0 and 90 degrees.
Timothy Dale is a freelance writer, specializing in the home repair and construction niche. He spent his post-secondary years working in the plumbing trade, while completing degrees in English Literature and Psychology, before taking on a Project Management position that ended up lasting 10 years. Mr. Dale has worked in residential plumbing and carpentry over his time as a Project Manager and also spent a year of his career in the commercial and industrial sector.
