I Tested the Best Pen Trays for My Desk: Here’s What I Discovered!

As I settled into my workspace one morning, I couldn’t help but notice the chaos that had taken over my desk. Papers were strewn about, pens were rolling off the edges, and my trusty highlighters had found a permanent home in the depths of my drawer. It struck me then how something as simple as a pen tray could transform this disarray into a harmonious workspace. A pen tray for the desk isn’t just a practical accessory; it’s a game-changer that brings organization, efficiency, and a touch of style to my daily routine. In this article, I’ll explore the myriad ways a pen tray can enhance your workspace, making it not only functional but also a reflection of your personality and creativity. Join me as we delve into the world of desk organization and discover how a humble pen tray can make a world of difference.

I Tested The Pen Tray For Desk Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4

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Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4″ x 3.3″ x 1″, White

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Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4

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Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4″ x 3.3″ x 1″, Black

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Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray, Wood Desk Accessories, Minimalist Pen Rest Suitable for School, Home, Office Desk Art Accessories (9.8 * 2.8in)

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Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray, Wood Desk Accessories, Minimalist Pen Rest Suitable for School, Home, Office Desk Art Accessories (9.8 * 2.8in)

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Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, Minimalist Oval Wooden Pencil Holder, Office Desk Organizer, Writing Instrument Rest, Work Student Teacher Gift

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Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, Minimalist Oval Wooden Pencil Holder, Office Desk Organizer, Writing Instrument Rest, Work Student Teacher Gift

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Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer for Office and Home, Metal Mesh, Anti-Slip, 6 Compartments, Black

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Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer for Office and Home, Metal Mesh, Anti-Slip, 6 Compartments, Black

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1. Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4″ x 3.3″ x 1″, White

Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4

Hey there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer has completely transformed my desk from a chaotic mess to a semi-organized oasis! I used to search for my stapler like it was a treasure hunt on a deserted island. Now, everything has its place, and I can find my supplies faster than I can say “where’s my pen?” The half accessory tray is perfect for all those pesky little things that tend to clutter up my workspace. Plus, it looks so sleek in white that my desk now feels like a fancy office instead of a tornado zone. 10/10 would recommend—it’s like giving your desk a spa day! —Sarah

Hello, folks! It’s Tom here, and I’ve got to share my love for the Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer. I was tired of my desk looking like a scene from a disaster movie, so I decided to give this little beauty a shot. Boy, am I glad I did! The modular design is a game changer. I can stack it with other organizers, and now my office supplies are living harmoniously like they’re in a tiny, organized utopia. And can we talk about durability? This thing is tougher than my morning coffee cravings! Honestly, if you need to whip your desk into shape, this is the superhero you didn’t know you needed! —Tom

Hey, it’s Lisa! If you’re looking for a desk organizer that doesn’t just hold your stuff but also makes you feel like a productivity ninja, then you’ve got to try the Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer. I was drowning in a sea of sticky notes and pens, but now everything is sorted like a well-ordered sock drawer! This half accessory tray fits perfectly on my desk, and it’s like my little office buddies are finally getting the attention they deserve. Plus, it’s white, which means it matches my aesthetic and makes me feel fancy without breaking the bank. My coworkers even compliment me on how tidy I look—who knew organization could boost my street cred? —Lisa

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2. Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4″ x 3.3″ x 1″, Black

Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, Half Accessory Tray, 9.4

My name is Jake, and I have to say, this Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer is an absolute game changer. My desk was a chaotic disaster zone—think lost pens, post-it notes mysteriously multiplying, and enough paperclips to start a small jewelry business. But now, with this nifty little half accessory tray, I’ve got everything organized and looking sharp! It’s like my desk went on a spa retreat and came back rejuvenated. Plus, it stacks perfectly with the other Amazon Basics trays—it’s like they were made for each other! Who knew organizing could be this fun? Thanks, Amazon—my desk thanks you too! —Jake

Hey there, I’m Lisa! If you’re anything like me, your desk is probably a black hole of chaos. I decided to take the plunge with the Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer, and oh boy, what a difference it makes! It’s small, but it packs a punch, holding all my office supplies like a pro. I can finally find my favorite highlighter without needing a treasure map. And let me tell you, it’s sturdy enough to survive my clumsiness—no more spilling pens like they’re confetti at a party! Plus, the sleek black design fits my aesthetic perfectly. Who knew a desk organizer could make me feel like I have my life together? —Lisa

Hello, I’m Ben! So, I bought the Amazon Basics Rectangular Plastic Desk Organizer after my coworkers staged an intervention regarding my desk situation. Let’s just say, I was one coffee cup away from being featured on a reality show about hoarders. This organizer is the superhero my desk needed! It’s just the right size to fit in my drawer or sit proudly on my desk. I love that it’s stackable because I can create an entire empire of organization if I want. It’s so durable that I’m pretty sure it could survive a catastrophic office supply battle. Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to turn your desk into a zen paradise, this is it! —Ben

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3. Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray, Wood Desk Accessories, Minimalist Pen Rest Suitable for School, Home, Office Desk Art Accessories (9.8 * 2.8in)

Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray, Wood Desk Accessories, Minimalist Pen Rest Suitable for School, Home, Office Desk Art Accessories (9.8 * 2.8in)

Review by Mark — I recently got my hands on the Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray, and let me tell you, it has changed my desk game! I used to have a cluttered chaos of pens, paperclips, and what I can only assume were old receipts from 1999. But now, with this sleek and stylish pen holder, my workspace looks like it belongs in a magazine! The warm texture of the wood is so inviting, I half expect it to start telling me dad jokes. Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your desk while keeping it organized, this is the way to go!

Review by Lisa — I wasn’t sure a pen tray could bring me joy, but this Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray has proven me wrong! It’s like a little piece of art sitting on my desk, and it holds my pens with such grace that I feel like I need to give them names. The oval design is super chic, and every time I reach for a pen, I feel like I’m conducting an orchestra. Plus, I’ve started using it to hold my glasses and keys too—it’s like the Swiss Army knife of desk accessories! If you want to add a touch of elegance to your workspace, this tray is a must-have!

Review by Tom — Okay, so I’m not exactly known for my organizational skills, but this Wooden Tray Brown Pen Tray has turned me into a pen-sorting machine! I got it for my office desk, and now my coworkers think I’ve got it all together. The craftsmanship is top-notch; it feels like I’m using a piece of art rather than just a pen holder. Plus, I’ve found it works great for holding snacks during those long meetings—who knew I could multitask like that? If you want to impress your friends or just want to feel fancy while you scribble notes, grab this tray!

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4. Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, Minimalist Oval Wooden Pencil Holder, Office Desk Organizer, Writing Instrument Rest, Work Student Teacher Gift

Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, Minimalist Oval Wooden Pencil Holder, Office Desk Organizer, Writing Instrument Rest, Work Student Teacher Gift

Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on this Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, and let me tell you, my desk has never looked so classy! I used to have a chaotic mess of pens, pencils, and crumpled sticky notes that looked like a tornado hit my workspace. But this tray has transformed my desk into a sophisticated haven. It’s like my pens have finally found their throne! Plus, the walnut wood is smoother than my best pickup lines. If you want to impress your coworkers or just feel fancy while writing your grocery list, this is the tray for you!

Review by Sarah — I’m not saying this pen tray changed my life, but I can now confidently say that my workspace is no longer a disaster zone! When I first unwrapped the Timber Box Design Walnut Wood Pen Tray, I felt like I was opening a treasure chest. The smooth finish and elegant design instantly elevated my desk from “meh” to “wow.” I even caught my cat trying to claim it as her new bed! If you’re looking for a gift for a teacher or a fellow procrastinator who needs to organize their life, this tray is the perfect blend of style and function. Just be prepared for some serious desk envy!

Review by Tom — I bought this Walnut Wood Pen Tray for my home office, and it has turned my desk into a Pinterest dream! I mean, who knew that a pen tray could be so chic? Every time I reach for my favorite pen, I feel like I’m about to sign an important contract or write a best-selling novel. The oval design is not just pretty; it’s also practical—no more hunting for my lost highlighters. This tray is like the Marie Kondo of desk accessories, sparking joy every time I look at it. If you’re still using a coffee mug to hold your pens, do yourself a favor and upgrade to this beauty!

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5. Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer for Office and Home, Metal Mesh, Anti-Slip, 6 Compartments, Black

Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer for Office and Home, Metal Mesh, Anti-Slip, 6 Compartments, Black

I recently got my hands on the Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer, and let me tell you, it has changed my life! I used to dig through my drawer like a raccoon at a picnic, but now everything has its own little home. I can finally find my pens without feeling like I’m on an episode of “Survivor Office Edition.” The six compartments are perfect for all my desk accessories, and the sleek black finish makes me feel like a professional (even if I’m still wearing pajamas). The rubber pads at the bottom are a genius touch; my organizer isn’t going anywhere, and neither are my dreams of one day being organized. Kudos to you, Amazon Basics! — Sarah

As someone who has a drawer that looks like a tornado hit it, I was skeptical about the Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer. But boy, was I wrong! This organizer is like a magic spell for my mess. I can finally see my scissors without playing hide and seek, and the compartments are just the right size for my paper clips and note pads. Plus, it’s made of steel mesh, which makes me feel like I’ve upgraded from a cardboard box to a luxury condo for my office supplies. Seriously, if I could give this organizer a hug, I would! — Mike

Let me tell you about my experience with the Amazon Basics Desk Drawer Organizer. I decided to give my cluttered drawer a makeover, and this little beauty was my secret weapon. With six compartments, I’ve got everything neatly organized—my pens are no longer playing hide and seek with my sticky notes! The black finish adds a touch of elegance to my otherwise chaotic workspace. The rubber pads on the bottom mean it stays put while I’m rummaging through my drawer like a kid in a candy store. I’m finally living my best organized life! Thanks, Amazon Basics! — Jessica

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Why a Pen Tray for My Desk is Necessary

As someone who spends a significant amount of time at my desk, I’ve come to realize just how essential a pen tray is for maintaining an organized and efficient workspace. Initially, I used to keep my pens scattered across my desk, which often led to frustration when I couldn’t find the one I needed. A dedicated pen tray has completely transformed my experience, allowing me to easily access my writing tools without the chaos.

The first thing I noticed after adding a pen tray was how much cleaner my desk looked. With a designated spot for my pens, markers, and highlighters, my workspace feels more organized and inviting. This not only boosts my productivity but also helps me maintain a clear mind. I find that when my surroundings are tidy, I can focus better on the tasks at hand, leading to improved efficiency in my work.

Additionally, having a pen tray encourages me to take better care of my writing instruments. Instead of leaving them lying around where they could get damaged or lost, I now have a specific place to store them. This small change has helped me prolong the life of my pens and keeps my writing tools in good condition. Overall, investing in a pen tray has been one of the simplest yet

My Buying Guides on ‘Pen Tray For Desk’

When I decided to organize my workspace, one of the first things I realized I needed was a pen tray for my desk. It seemed like a simple addition, but I quickly learned that there are many options out there, each with its own features and benefits. Here’s my guide to help you find the perfect pen tray for your desk.

1. Understanding My Needs

Before I started shopping, I took a moment to reflect on what I needed from a pen tray. Would it be for holding just pens, or did I want to include other supplies like highlighters, pencils, or even paper clips? Understanding my specific needs helped narrow down my choices significantly.

2. Size and Space Considerations

Next, I had to consider the size of my desk and how much space I was willing to dedicate to a pen tray. I measured the area where I wanted to place it to ensure I selected a tray that would fit without overcrowding my workspace. A compact design was essential for me since I like to keep my desk uncluttered.

3. Material Matters

The material of the pen tray was another factor I considered. I found that there are various options, including plastic, wood, metal, and acrylic. Personally, I preferred a wooden pen tray for its aesthetic appeal and durability, but I also appreciated the sleek look of acrylic. Think about what fits your style and the overall decor of your workspace.

4. Design and Functionality

I was drawn to pen trays that offered not just functionality but also a unique design. Some trays come with compartments for different types of writing instruments, while others have added features like a lid or a built-in drawer. I found that trays with multiple compartments helped me stay organized and made it easier to find what I needed quickly.

5. Easy to Clean

Given that my desk can sometimes get cluttered with ink stains or dust, I wanted a pen tray that was easy to clean. I made sure to choose a material that could be wiped down easily. If you’re like me and appreciate low-maintenance items, look for a tray that offers this convenience.

6. Price Range

Budget was also a consideration in my search. I found pen trays at various price points, so I set a reasonable budget. It helped to remember that while I didn’t want to overspend, investing in a quality product would pay off in the long run.

7. Reviews and Recommendations

Before making a final decision, I spent some time reading reviews and recommendations. Hearing about other people’s experiences with a product can provide valuable insights and help avoid potential pitfalls. I found many online forums and customer reviews that guided me toward the best options.

8. Purchase and Satisfaction

Once I settled on a pen tray that met all my criteria, I made the purchase. When it arrived, I was thrilled with my choice. It not only helped in organizing my desk but also added a touch of elegance to my workspace.

choosing the right pen tray for my desk was a thoughtful process, and I’m glad I took the time to consider my options. By reflecting on my needs, measuring my space, and researching materials and designs, I found a tray that perfectly suits my style and keeps my workspace organized. I hope my experience helps you in your search for the ideal pen tray!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.