As compared to regular desks, drafting desks are specialized tables which have a hinged top and can be raised from flat to a certain upright angle depending on the design of the table. It is used to prevent neck problems and incorrect posture among users during extended periods of work.
Currently, there are four styles of drafting tables. Those are the four-post, pedestal, fold-a-way and crop and hobby drafting table. They all, nonetheless, have the same feature – a comfortable tilting table. They only differ on the features (commonly the number of legs and tabletop surface) and the accessories and parts integrated by the manufacturer.
If your intent is to purchase one, consider choosing the style that suits you. Further, the material which the table was made of must be put in mind. There are traditional (e.g. solid wood or metal) and modern (e.g. glass) based drafting tables.
We also suggest checking out the products of Yaheetech, Studio Designs, and Zeny. They are the leading manufacturers of drafting tables nowadays offering excellence in ergonomic designs and durability. Yaheetech’s table is one of the superb recommendations we can confidently suggest due to its great functions such as its 60-degree tilt and stellar durability.
Having said that, have a look at the rundown of the best drafting tables this 2021.
Best Drafting Desks Comparison & Rating
1. Yaheetech Adjustable Glass Drafting Table
Weight | 38.6 pounds |
Tabletop Material | Glass |
Drafting Height Range | 31.5-49.2 inches |
Color | Gray |
This middle-size drafting table is perfect for its 0 - 60 degrees angle tilt range. Plus, it doesn’t cover a lot of space at home if you’re preparing for a home-based working schedule. It can serve as a regular table or an artist table.
With its glass tabletop, tracing tasks are easier, too. Additional lighting can be very ideal, which, at any color, can complement the transparent blue glass top as it softens the light that is reflected onto it. As a result, good lighting for tracing is achieved. The table is also manufactured with square coated steel frames which makes it durable and stable for the glass tabletop.
Comic artists will also surely love the embedded stationary trays on both sides and the pencil ledge of this table. It can hold papers and pencils even when the table is tilted at maximum range. It also has two drawers beneath the table for the storage of other needed materials. Neat!
Moreover, there are two breaks that can be used to lock the angle of two of its four casters. The casters are very great and efficient. It offers great mobility and smooth movement of the table. The locks, on the other hand, are truly powerful in promoting steady balance. We really love how it holds the entirety of the table in place. Excellent. Nonetheless, you may also add rubber stoppers on the bottom or on the wheels to add an additional break, especially if you intend to place it on extremely smooth surfaces like untextured tiles. But overall, a really impressive design and very functional parts!
2. Studio Designs 10050 Futura Craft Station
Weight | 48 pounds |
Tabletop Material | Tempered Blue Glass |
Drafting Height Range | 31.5-37.75 inches |
Color | Silver |
Studio Designs furnishes one of the best multi-functional tables, especially with drafting tables. As compared to the Yaheetech, this table uses heavy-gauge steel material which brings extra sturdy and stable support to the table. Let us also thank them for adding rear crossbars to aid the table’s stability. Genius.
Moreover, just like that of Yaheetech, Studio Design 10050 also comes with a glass tabletop. The tabletop can only be titled at a maximum of 35 degrees. This is quite far from the 60-degree max tilt capability of Yaheetech, but it will suit most of the basic needs of some professionals. Its style can satisfy professional projects and leisure crafts.
Add to these, there are three plastic drawers beneath the table for more storage which can be mounted on either side of the table. On top, there are also removable tabletop art supply storage and 24-pencil ledge slides that slide up and lock into place. Artists can also keep pens or brushes here. Sweet!
3. ZENY Height Adjustable Drafting Table Desk
Weight | 60.6 pounds |
Tabletop Material | MDF Board |
Drafting Height Range | 28-35.8 inches |
Color | Black |
This drafting table is present on the list for being a well-known user-friendly option. It uses an MDF surface which is way smoother than glass. It could be an issue for those looking for an extremely durable, non-scratch tabletop. However, with the nature of MDF being ultra-smooth, papers could easily slide which is very ideal for professionals looking for extra maneuverability of paper materials.
As for the leg support, this table was designed to have powder-coated iron legs that support the whole table. It also has a pad at the bottom to protect the floor from scratches. This ‘traditional’ drafting table can be tilted from 0 – 45 degrees. There is also an auxiliary table (23.6” X 15”) for double work surfaces. If you need additional space for your work, this will be beneficial for you.
Overall, this offer is a great product to consider. It is an all-in product that is easy to assemble and comes in every part that’s essential for your needs.
4. Studio Designs 13325 Comet Center Hobby Drawing
Weight | 56.2 pounds |
Tabletop Material | Vinyl Laminate Finish |
Drafting Height Range | 29.5 – 44.25 inches |
Color | Gray |
If you will notice, it is almost identical to the Studio Designs 10050 model’s body. What really sets it apart, however, are the additions of ergonomic parts. One of them is the added footrest under the desk which can also double as a bottom shelf. We also appreciate the additional 5-degree tilt of this model which gives you a maximum of 40-degree tilt.
Also, if storage is your biggest concern, this table is the best for you. First, there are three 12.75- by 12.75-inch fabric drawers beneath the side table. It is large enough to cover large accessories such as pencils and rulers. Second, as said earlier, there is a 15.5- by 14.25-inch bottom shelf for additional storage. It is nearly as wide as its tabletop. Comet Center also has a side table that is flat enough to put on other essential accessories.
As for its stability, its six-floor levelers answer the concern on floor imperfections. This will ensure a smooth and stable landing area for your drafting table. Add to this, the powder-coated steel frame withstands the damages of the legs for better and longer usage, not to mention that powder coatings make the table corrosion resistant.
Further, its vinyl laminate finish tabletop is the best, not only because it is water-resistant but because it has this fine texture to allow easy movement of the drafting paper. That means faster work and improved productivity for you!
5. Studio Designs Vintage Rustic Oak Drafting Table
Weight | 27 pounds |
Tabletop Material | Wood |
Drafting Height Range | 36 inches |
Color | Brown |
Feel the nostalgic effect while having modern functionality through Studio Design’s Vintage Rustic Oak Drafting Table. Its hardwood frame ensures its durability and stability. Its solid base also supports the table from shaking or moving while doing your work. We really love how thick each leg is that it can handle the tabletop 100% steady even when you try to shake it. No wiggling. No shaking. Purely rock-solid structure.
Add to this, it has a wide tabletop which is beneficial for artists who wish to have enough space for a variety of projects. Its built-in 24-inch pencil ledge and pencil groove also hold your materials firmly even at its maximum 90-degree tilt range.
The mobility, however, might be a challenge since it doesn’t have the modern caster wheels for easy transfer. Furthermore, if you wish to change your working area, it is suggested that you put extra rubber beneath the base frame to avoid scratches to your floor.
Best Drafting Desks – Buyer's Guide
Working from home requires excellent space management. If you are up to purchasing a drafting table, take into consideration whether the size will fit your designated area. Without a doubt, drafting tables consume a large amount of space. However, there are drafting tables such as the fold-a-way which can compensate for workspace issues. The four-post drafting table, on the other hand, is more spacious because of its larger tabletop sizes, but obviously consumes more space.
The tabletop is another feature that one must pay attention to when buying one.
There are traditional tops made from solid wood or metal materials. They are known for their durability and appealing aura. However, weight is a concern among them.
On the other side, there are also translucent, glass tabletops. These are commonly purchased by artists who wish to add the tracing function onto the table. The light underneath helps the table to act as a lightbox which aids in their tasks.
MDF table tops are also ideal as they allow better movement of drafting paper through their smooth texture. With this, it is up to you to choose among these kinds of surfaces as long as you’ll get the best benefit from them.
For drafting and drawing tables, a larger tabletop surface is more convenient to use. It enables the artist to have sufficient room to perform his work without restrictions. The standard drafting table sizes are 24" x 36", 30" x 42", 37.5" x 48”, 37.5" x 60" and 37.5" x 72". Other options are also available depending on the manufacturer’s releases.
Drafting Desks can be the Four-Post, Pedestal, Fold-A-Way or Crop and Hobby tables. The first type is a sturdy table that will not wobble when leaned on. They have a strong base foundation to support the stability. The Pedestal drafting tables, on the other hand, uses a lever, foot pedal, or switch to adjust the height and tilt of the table. The third type is the Fold-A-Way drafting tables. They take up less space and are more portable. Lastly, the Crop and Hobby drafting tables are made for crafters and are made with more storage options.
Drafting angle or tilt is one of the reasons why the drafting tables are unique among regular tables. There are drafting tables that range from 0 – 90 degrees tilt depending on the style. The best angle for drawing is 90 degrees. However, whether you're an architect, comic artist, or a craft hobbyist, a 20-degree tilt is modest enough to consider. Above all, your preference for the tilt adjustment is what matters.
Best Drafting Desks – FAQs
Not all drafting desks at present are equipped with adjustable height features. Most of the Four-Post type has a fixed height due to the table’s heavy yet very sturdy table design. The standard height for drafting desks is 37 inches while the standard office height is 30 inches. Another tip, make sure that your chair goes as high or as low as your table height to ensure comfort and avoid incorrect postures.
Drafting tables are multi-functional. Therefore, they are worthy to spend a little more than the regular. In return, drafting tables can also serve as a regular table if you choose to do so. This is the very reasonable reason why drafting tables are more expensive than regular tables.
Your intent defines the best drafting table for you. Every drafting table presents a special feature for a specific purpose. After all, drafting tables are highly customizable which allows you to do various activities. Consider knowing your project first before purchasing a drafting table. Nonetheless, we suggest that you check out our top list - the Yaheetech Adjustable Glass Drafting Table. It is a very compact and modern drafting desk table that is very versatile for all your drafting purposes.
The layout of drafting tables makes it unique from the regular ones. Its ability to tilt, ability to store tools and materials makes it different from the other one. Drafting desks are designed for artists and professionals use which requires angling the workspace. It also enables the user to hunker down and get to work without worrying about posture and muscle contraction at all.
