Quick picks

PickBest forInstall
Cinati 16" Under Desk BoxBest overall, no drillingClamp, desks up to 3"
Cinati Cable TraySmaller desksClamp, no drill
D-Line Cable Management BoxPower strips on the floorNone
D-Line Under Desk TrayLow-profile mountAdhesive or screws

A 15-minute cable plan

  • Mount a tray under the back of your desk and put your power strip in it.
  • Plug every device into that strip so only one cable goes to the wall.
  • Bundle the cables that run up to the desk with ties or a sleeve.
  • Use a monitor arm with built-in cable channels to hide screen cables.

The best cable management products

Best for: Best overall

Cinati 16" Under Desk Cable Management Box

A powder-coated steel basket that clamps onto desks 0.4 to 3 inches thick, holds up to 15 lb, and comes with cable clips and ties. Big enough for a power strip and adapters.

  • No drilling
  • Fits thick desks
  • Large capacity
  • Clamp needs a desk edge with clearance
  • White or black only
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Best for: Smaller desks

Cinati Under Desk Cable Tray

A smaller clamp-on tray for one power strip and a few chargers, with no damage to your desk.

  • Affordable
  • Renter friendly
  • Quick install
  • Less room than the 16" box
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Best for: Hiding a floor power strip

D-Line Cable Management Box

A box that hides power strips up to 10.5 inches long, with cable exits on each side. Good when you can't mount anything under the desk.

  • No installation
  • Clean look
  • Thousands of reviews
  • Stays on the floor
  • Check strip length
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Best for: Low-profile mount

D-Line Under Desk Cable Tray

A 40cm tray that fixes with either adhesive or screws, sized for common extension blocks.

  • Two install methods
  • Slim profile
  • Adhesive depends on surface
  • Fewer reviews
Check price on Amazon

Pair with

Standing desk? Leave a little slack in each cable so nothing pulls tight when the desk rises.

FAQ

How do I manage cables under a desk without drilling?

Use a clamp-on tray like the Cinati box, which hooks onto the desk edge, plus adhesive cable clips.

How do I cable manage a standing desk?

Mount the tray to the desktop so it moves with it, and run a single power cable to the wall with some slack.

Is a cable management box safe for a power strip?

Yes, if the box is ventilated and you don't overload the strip.

What is the cheapest way to tidy desk cables?

Reusable ties and adhesive clips cost a few dollars; a tray is the biggest single improvement.