How I Converted My Desk Drawer Into A Keyboard Drawer

How I Converted My Desk Drawer Into A Keyboard Drawer

As a freelance writer, I spend hours sitting in front of my computer every day. One thing that always bothered me was the lack of space on my desk. I had to constantly move my keyboard and mouse around to make room for other things. That’s when I decided to convert my desk drawer into a keyboard drawer. It was a simple solution that made a huge difference in my work setup.

What is a Keyboard Drawer?

A keyboard drawer is a tray that slides out from under your desk, providing a convenient and ergonomic place to store your keyboard and mouse. It helps to free up desk space and keeps your workspace organized.

How to Convert Your Desk Drawer into a Keyboard Drawer

Here are the steps I followed to convert my desk drawer into a keyboard drawer:

1. Remove the drawer from your desk and measure the width and depth.
2. Cut a piece of plywood to the same size as the drawer.
3. Attach drawer slides to the plywood, making sure they are level.
4. Attach the plywood to the underside of your desk using screws.
5. Attach the keyboard tray to the slides.
6. Slide the tray in and out to test it.
7. Reattach the drawer front to the plywood.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for a Keyboard Drawer

Here are some tips and ideas for making the most of your keyboard drawer:

1. Choose a tray that is large enough to hold your keyboard and mouse comfortably.
2. Consider a tray with an adjustable height or tilt for better ergonomics.
3. Use cable ties or clips to keep your cords organized and out of sight.
4. Install a wrist rest for added comfort and support.
5. Consider a tray with a built-in mouse pad.
6. Choose a tray that matches the color and style of your desk.
7. Install a lockable tray to keep your keyboard and mouse secure.
8. Consider a tray with a sliding mouse tray for added convenience.
9. Use the extra space on your desk for other items, such as a lamp or speakers.
10. Consider a tray with a built-in USB hub or charging station.

Pros and Cons of a Keyboard Drawer

Like any piece of equipment, a keyboard drawer has its pros and cons:

Pros:

• Keeps your keyboard and mouse out of the way, freeing up desk space.
• Improves ergonomics by keeping your keyboard at the proper height and angle.
• Reduces clutter on your desk.
• Provides added security for your keyboard and mouse.

Cons:

• May not be suitable for all desks or workstations.
• May require some DIY skills to install.
• May not be adjustable enough for some users.
• May not be as comfortable as a separate keyboard tray or stand.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with my decision to convert my desk drawer into a keyboard drawer. It has made a big difference in my workspace and has made me more productive. However, it may not be the best option for everyone. If you have a small desk, a separate keyboard tray may be a better solution. If you have a large desk, you may not need a keyboard drawer at all. It really depends on your personal preferences and work setup.

FAQs

Q: Can I install a keyboard drawer myself?

A: Yes, it is possible to install a keyboard drawer yourself with some basic tools and DIY skills.

Q: How much does a keyboard drawer cost?

A: Keyboard drawers can range in price from $20 to $200, depending on the size, materials, and features.

Q: Can a keyboard drawer fit any keyboard?

A: No, it is important to choose a keyboard drawer that is compatible with the size and shape of your keyboard and mouse.

Q: What are the benefits of a keyboard drawer?

A: A keyboard drawer can help to free up desk space, improve ergonomics, reduce clutter, and provide added security for your keyboard and mouse.