I had my eye on a beautiful but much more expensive desk ($500) in one of my favorite catalogs and when it finally went on sale, it was still more than my budget would allow. So I searched online and found this desk - I liked the style and dimensions, but when it arrived I was SO glad I had ordered it instead of the other one! It was very easy to put together - all I had to do was attach the legs - and it's very solid, quite heavy in fact. The desktop has ample space for my laptop, 24 inch secondary monitor, small table lamp, mouse pad, and still enough space for a notepad. The three drawers are a great plus for stashing pens and binders and other items. The entire desk is so solidly built that I know it will last for years. The pictures don't do it justice - high marks both for quality and aesthetic appeal - I absolutely love this desk!