A printer stand vs putting the printer on the desk
Verdict
A printer on the desk takes the space you work in, and a printer on the floor is awkward to load and collects dust. A stand puts it at a usable height under or beside the desk with somewhere for paper, which is the practical answer for a small room. Buy the stand if desk space is tight; skip it if you have room.
| 2-Tier Under Desk Printer Stand | 12-Outlet Surge Protector | |
|---|---|---|
| Frees desk space | Yes | No |
| Paper storage | Usually a shelf | No |
| Access to trays | Good | Not applicable |
| Dust exposure | Lower than the floor | Not applicable |
| Mobility | Often castors | Not applicable |
| Cost | Moderate | Low |
Your desk is small and the printer is in the way. A stand with a shelf gives paper and spare cartridges a home, which is the other half of the clutter problem.
Check 2-Tier Under Desk Printer Stand on Amazon
Whatever the layout, a home office needs more outlets than the room has. A surge-protected strip with enough sockets prevents the daisy-chained extension leads that are both a fire risk and a nuisance.
Check 12-Outlet Surge Protector on Amazon
Laser printers generate heat and need clearance, and enclosed cabinets can cause problems. Check the manual's clearance requirements before boxing one in.
Dust and knocks are the issues, along with awkward loading. If the floor is the only option, a low stand with castors at least keeps it off the carpet.
Yes for the electronics. Note that laser printers draw a large surge when the fuser heats, so many manufacturers advise against putting them on a UPS, which is a different device.
Comparison based on published manufacturer specifications and the general consensus of owner reports. We have not tested these units side by side. Confirm current prices and specifications before buying. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Footprint is easy to underestimate. Our Brother MFC-L8930CDW review and HP M479fdw review both cover machines that need more clearance than small offices allow for.