When searching for the perfect coworking space, you’ve probably encountered the terms hot desk and dedicated desk. Both are shared office solutions, but each offers unique perks.
How do you know which one is right for you? Simple: Understand the meaning, differences, pros, and cons of each solution. And that’s exactly what this blog post will help you achieve.
What Is Hot Desking?
Hot desking is a free-seating setup in a coworking space. You don’t have a specific workstation. However, you can choose where you sit and work in a shared office space. One day, you’re by the window enjoying the view while crushing your to-do list. The next day, you’re in a secluded cubicle, fully focused.
Advantages of Hot Desking
Here’s why you should consider hot desking:
- Work from any available workstation: Since hot desks are not reserved for individuals, you can temporarily use available options whenever necessary.
- Save on costs: With hot desking, you only pay for a workstation when you actually use it — no pricey reservations or long-term commitments.
- Change your surroundings and stay inspired: Getting stuck at the same desk daily can quickly become boring, especially for those who rely on a change in surroundings to remain productive. Hot desking allows you to change where you work anytime.
- Expand your professional or personal network: Switching up workstations whenever you feel like it could mean constantly being surrounded by new faces. And you never know who you’ll run into. A quick chat with these new people or a shared project idea could lead to a big, spontaneous collaboration.
Disadvantages of Hot Desking
Common hot desking problems include:
- First come, first served: With hot desking, you just show up in a coworking space, grab an available spot, and you’re good to go. But there’s always the risk of showing up and finding no available desks.
- Lack of privacy: Some people prefer a personal working space tailored to their needs. In hot desking, all workstations are a shared resource personalized to no one.
What Is a Dedicated Desk?
A dedicated desk is a personal workstation in a shared office. It is yours for as long as your booking lasts.
You get all the perks of a coworking space, like fast Wi-Fi and breakfast, but with your own desk, chair, and maybe even some storage for your stuff. You don’t need to fight for a seat with other digital nomads, freelancers, or team members working remotely every morning.
Advantages of Dedicated Desks
Here’s why dedicated desks are great coworking space solutions:
- Own a working space for as long as you like: You get a personal desk for the duration of the booking, creating a sense of ownership. You’ll never have to compete for space with other professionals in a shared office.
- Enjoy personal space: A dedicated desk (with dividers or cubicles) cuts out distractions, gives you the privacy to stay focused, and lets you personalize the space.
- Become a community member: With a dedicated desk, you use the same workspace daily. You then start seeing familiar faces (other people with dedicated desk membership). Together, you build a little coworking community over time that makes you feel you belong.
Disadvantages of Dedicated Desks
Dedicated desks might not be for you for the following reasons:
- A fixed workspace setup requires a long-term commitment
- There are reservation fees, typically charged monthly, whether you show up or not throughout the booking period
Hot Desk vs. Dedicated Desk
The table below shows the differences between hot desks and dedicated desks:
| Feature | Hot Desk | Dedicated Desk |
| Flexibility | Super flexible; pick from any available workspaces | Fixed; get one personal desk reserved for you |
| Availability | First come, first served basis | Always available just for you |
| Privacy | Anyone can use the desk | Personal space that’s yours only |
| Workspace Customizability | Can’t personalize because it’s public | Fully customizable; you can even leave personal items on the desk |
| Networking Opportunities | High chance of meeting new people daily | Build deeper connections with familiar folks over time |
| Cost | Affordable; only pay when you use it | More expensive; pay a fixed fee (usually monthly) whether you use the workspace or not |
The Hybrid Approach
The magic of a great coworking space is all about balance.
Dedicated desk folks stick to one workspace. This allows them to build a coworking community that can give them a sense of belonging and support collaborative environments. Hot desk users, on the other hand, are temporary workers. They stay in a coworking space for a short period but bring fresh perspectives that add value to the community.
Together, they help keep the coworking space vibrant and guarantee it’s a place where people can build new connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a hot desk and a shared desk?
Desk sharing involves assigning desks and scheduling use. There are no schedules or desk assignments in hot desking.
What is the difference between a hot desk and a fixed desk?
A hot desk is shared and flexible, while a fixed or dedicated desk is reserved for an individual.
Why do they call it a hot desk?
The hot desk concept comes from a workspace being constantly used by different people.
Finding the Ideal Workspace Solution
Hot desk vs. dedicated desk: Which one is right for you?
Choose a hot desk if:
- You need a temporary or on-demand workspace
- You want an affordable workspace solution paid for only when you use it
- You are a digital nomad or freelancer who enjoys meeting new people
- You don’t want to be tied to one working spot
A dedicated workspace is ideal if:
- You prefer a private, more permanent desk in a coworking space
- You’re a small team that needs a stable, collaborative workspace
- You want to be part of a coworking community
- You want to avoid distractions and personalize your workspace
Looking for hot desks or permanent working stations in the United States? Industrious provides fully furnished coworking spaces suitable for individuals, small teams, and large teams. Learn more about our coworking spaces and see why brands and individuals love our solutions.