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Keyboard trays

A keyboard tray (also called a keyboard slide or under-desk keyboard platform) mounts beneath the desktop and holds the keyboard at a lower, ergonomically correct height. It frees up the desktop surface, allows the wrists to stay neutral while typing, and lets the user slide the keyboard out of the way when working with paper or other items.

What to look for​

  • Adjustable height — sets the keyboard at elbow height regardless of desk height
  • Negative tilt — angles the back of the tray slightly downward (typically 0-15°) to keep wrists neutral
  • Slide-out / retract — the tray glides out from under the desktop when needed and tucks back in when it is not
  • Mouse area — wide trays include space for a mouse alongside the keyboard; narrow trays hold the keyboard only
  • Mounting plate — usually screwed to the underside of the desktop; check your desk has enough clearance and depth before ordering

Documentation in this category​

  • Models — per-model specifications, dimensions, weight ratings and tilt ranges (see the sidebar as they are added)

Keyboard trays FAQ

What are keyboard trays used for?
A keyboard tray holds the keyboard below the desktop surface — typically at elbow height. This keeps the wrists neutral while typing, frees up the desktop for paper, books and other items, and lets you slide the keyboard out of the way when you don't need it. The result is a less cramped desk and a more comfortable typing position over a long workday.
What types of keyboard trays are available?
Three common types: fixed under-desk trays (mounted at one height, no adjustment), slide-out trays on rails (retract under the desk when not in use), and articulating ergonomic trays (height-adjustable, tilt-adjustable, with full slide-out range). Width varies between keyboard-only trays and wider keyboard-plus-mouse platforms; pick the wider one if you use an external mouse, the narrow one to save space.
What are the ergonomic benefits of a keyboard tray?
By lowering the keyboard to elbow height and adding negative tilt (back of tray slightly down), a keyboard tray keeps the wrists straight rather than bent up — the single biggest factor in preventing wrist pain and repetitive-strain injury over years of typing. It also frees the desktop, which subconsciously reduces clutter and stress.
How do I install a keyboard tray?
Most trays screw to the underside of the desktop with the supplied mounting plate and screws. Check the desk has at least 5-7 cm of clearance under the front edge (for the tray plus the slide rail) and the depth needed for the tray to retract fully. For thin glass desks or desks without a flat underside, choose a clamp-on model instead. Always test the position by sitting at the desk with the tray retracted and extended before tightening all the screws.