Buying Guide
The Best Paper Trays and Letter Trays Under $20, Compared
We looked at 6 paper trays and letter trays under $20 side by side, with the trade-offs that separate them and who each one suits.
By Jamie Cole, Lead Product Researcher
11 min read6 products evaluated
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Best Paper Trays and Letter Trays Under $20 cover more ground, so paper trays and letter trays under $20, one spec isn't enough.
Paper trays and letter trays under $20 comparisons come down to real desk footprint, given that footprint competes with desk space.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray
Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Our take Check price for Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray (opens in a new tab)
Also Worth Considering
Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black (opens in a new tab)
Solid Alternative
Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer (opens in a new tab)
Another Strong Option
Simple Trending 5-Tier Paper Tray Organizer
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Simple Trending 5-Tier Paper Tray Organizer (opens in a new tab)
Runner-Up Pick
DALTACK 3 Tier Letter Tray Paper Organizer with Sliding Trays Mint Green
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for DALTACK 3 Tier Letter Tray Paper Organizer with Sliding Trays Mint Green (opens in a new tab)
Worth a Look
A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 6
Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray is the strongest all-around choice here.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
Unique portable handle design which makes the paper sorter organizer very convenient to move and place where you need it! 2-Tier layered design and large capacity make the paper organizer become an ideal choice for managing all kinds of letter-size letters, paper, books, bills, etc.
Against Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black, neither pick has an obvious edge on paper, so the deciding factor comes down to whichever spec matters most for your specific use case.
Choose this if you want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around. Size labels on paper trays aren't perfectly standardized, check the actual interior dimensions against your specific paper size rather than trusting the label alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- New upgrade design
- Multi-purpose organizer
- Mesh desktop file organizer is made of lightweight durable
Pros
- New upgrade design
- Multi-purpose organizer
- Mesh desktop file organizer is made of lightweight durable
Cons
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
Also Worth Considering2 of 6
Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Holds a4 or letter-size papers.
Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray lands in a similar spot overall, but the deciding factor between the two is self-stacking tray holds documents and folders.
This makes sense for anyone who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. More tiers only help if you sort into that many categories, count your real sorting habits before buying the highest tier count available.
Key dimensions & specs
- Wire mesh construction
- Holds a4 or letter-size papers
- Sleek contemporary style
Pros
- Wire mesh construction
- Holds a4 or letter-size papers
- Sleek contemporary style
- Self-stacking
Cons
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
Solid Alternative3 of 6
Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
You can arrange the clutter on the desktop neatly, save space and keep the desktop clean.
Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray covers similar ground, though open design, allowing for quick retrieval and hassle-free document distribution is what tips the choice one way or the other.
Reach for this pick if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Size labels on paper trays aren't perfectly standardized, check the actual interior dimensions against your specific paper size rather than trusting the label alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- 9.25" L x 8.78" w x 7.28" h
- Save space
- Find it quickly
Pros
- 9.25" L x 8.78" w x 7.28" h
- Save space
- Find it quickly
- Customizable storage
Cons
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
Another Strong Option4 of 6
Simple Trending 5-Tier Paper Tray Organizer on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Simple Trending 5-Tier Paper Tray Organizer is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
13"L x 9"w x 13"h spacious design holds letter-size documents, files, books and office supplies, keeping your workspace tidy and essentials within easy reach. Built-in rubber feet prevent sliding and secure the organizer in place, while also protecting your desktop from scratches and scuffs during daily use.
Set next to Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
Choose this if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. More tiers only help if you sort into that many categories, count your real sorting habits before buying the highest tier count available.
Key dimensions & specs
- 5-Tier large capacity storage
- Non-slip stable & desk protection
- Durable metal mesh steel frame
Pros
- 5-Tier large capacity storage
- Non-slip stable & desk protection
- Durable metal mesh steel frame
- Tool-free snap-together assembly
Cons
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
Runner-Up Pick5 of 6
DALTACK 3 Tier Letter Tray Paper Organizer with Sliding Trays Mint Green on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
DALTACK 3 Tier Letter Tray Paper Organizer with Sliding Trays Mint Green is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Keep paperwork organized without crowding your desk. Designed for letter and a4 paper, folders, mail, bills, and notebooks, this paper organizer for desk keeps everyday documents visible and easy to reach.
Set next to Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
It's worth picking this one if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Size labels on paper trays aren't perfectly standardized, check the actual interior dimensions against your specific paper size rather than trusting the label alone.
Key dimensions & specs
- Space-saving design
- Designed for letter and a4 paper
- Quick-access trays
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Designed for letter and a4 paper
- Quick-access trays
- Built for small spaces
Cons
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
Worth a Look6 of 6
A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Designed for sheets, this paper tray provides a dedicated desktop location for loose paper and note-taking materials. Keep writing paper within easy reach while working, studying, journaling, or organizing daily notes at your desk.
Set next to Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
This makes sense for anyone who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. More tiers only help if you sort into that many categories, count your real sorting habits before buying the highest tier count available.
Key dimensions & specs
- Designed for sheets
- Note-taking setup
- Desktop organization
Pros
- Designed for sheets
- Note-taking setup
- Desktop organization
- Easy paper access
Cons
- Extra tiers only help if you sort into that many categories
- Size labels on trays aren't perfectly standardized
How We Chose These Paper Trays and Letter Trays Under $20
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Front-Loading vs Top-Loading Access Changes How Easily You Retrieve a Specific Document
- A front-loading letter tray lets you see and pull a specific document from the front without disturbing others above it, while a top-loading stacked design requires removing papers above your target document to reach it, front-loading is more convenient if you need to access documents out of order rather than just adding new ones to the top..
- Open Wire Designs Are Easier to Clean Than Enclosed Plastic or Wood Trays
- An open wire-mesh tray lets dust and debris fall through or get wiped out easily, while an enclosed plastic or wood tray with solid sides can trap dust in the corners, requiring more deliberate cleaning, a small but real maintenance difference if the tray sits somewhere dusty or near a window..
- Some Trays Ship Flat-Packed and Need Real Assembly Time
- A metal wire tray or a multi-tier unit sometimes ships flat or in pieces requiring assembly with included screws or clips, a detail rarely emphasized in the listing title, check buyer reviews specifically for assembly-time complaints if a ready-to-use tray out of the box matters to you..
- Label Slots or Clear Fronts Prevent Miscategorized Documents
- Without a real labeling feature, a multi-tier tray's organization system exists only in your head, a physical label slot or clear front removes the guesswork, especially useful if other people share the desk or if the document categories aren't immediately obvious by sight alone..
- A Multi-Tier Tray's Footprint Competes With Working Desk Space
- A tall, multi-tier letter tray takes up real vertical and base desk space, on a smaller desk this can crowd your actual working area, check the tray's stated footprint dimensions against your available desk space, not just whether it fits your document volume, a great organizer that eats your typing space isn't actually an improvement..
What to Look for in a Paper Tray and Letter Trays Under $20
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Front-Loading vs Top-Loading Access Changes How Easily You Retrieve a Specific Document
A front-loading letter tray lets you see and pull a specific document from the front without disturbing others above it, while a top-loading stacked design requires removing papers above your target document to reach it, front-loading is more convenient if you need to access documents out of order rather than just adding new ones to the top.
Open Wire Designs Are Easier to Clean Than Enclosed Plastic or Wood Trays
An open wire-mesh tray lets dust and debris fall through or get wiped out easily, while an enclosed plastic or wood tray with solid sides can trap dust in the corners, requiring more deliberate cleaning, a small but real maintenance difference if the tray sits somewhere dusty or near a window.
Some Trays Ship Flat-Packed and Need Real Assembly Time
A metal wire tray or a multi-tier unit sometimes ships flat or in pieces requiring assembly with included screws or clips, a detail rarely emphasized in the listing title, check buyer reviews specifically for assembly-time complaints if a ready-to-use tray out of the box matters to you.
Label Slots or Clear Fronts Prevent Miscategorized Documents
Without a real labeling feature, a multi-tier tray's organization system exists only in your head, a physical label slot or clear front removes the guesswork, especially useful if other people share the desk or if the document categories aren't immediately obvious by sight alone.
A Multi-Tier Tray's Footprint Competes With Working Desk Space
A tall, multi-tier letter tray takes up real vertical and base desk space, on a smaller desk this can crowd your actual working area, check the tray's stated footprint dimensions against your available desk space, not just whether it fits your document volume, a great organizer that eats your typing space isn't actually an improvement.
How to Choose a Paper Tray and Letter Trays Under $20
| Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black | |
| Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray | |
| A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets |
| Lowest price in this lineup | Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black |
|---|---|
| Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer | |
| A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets |
- Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black)
- Resists bending and warping longer under daily loading.
- Lighter and often cheaper, can warp under sustained heavy use.
Match this to your actual setup and priorities.
| Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray | |
| Room for a taller multi-tier tray | Gawerk 5-Section Vertical Desktop Organizer |
For a Shared Desk Specifically
- Clear label slots on each tier so the sorting system doesn't rely on memory.
- Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray is worth checking against its specific spec sheet before assuming any pick here covers your exact need.
- You need the strongest real-world performance and sturdiest build, where A5 Paper Tray, Desktop Paper Holder for Notes and Loose Sheets justifies the extra cost.
- You want straightforward everyday use without paying for headroom you won't need, where Eldon 62555 Nestable Mesh Stacking Side Load Letter Tray Wire, Black already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Front-loading or top-loading, which is more convenient?
Front-loading lets you pull a specific document without disturbing others above it, top-loading is simpler but forces working through the stack in order, pick based on whether you need random or sequential access.
Will a letter tray fit legal-size or A4 paper?
Not always, size labels aren't perfectly standardized, check the tray's actual interior dimensions against your specific paper size rather than trusting the label alone.
Will a multi-tier tray take up too much desk space?
Check the actual footprint dimensions against your available desk area, a tray with more capacity generally takes up more physical space, which can crowd a smaller desk's working area.
Can I add more tiers to a tray later?
Only with a modular system designed for it, check whether the specific tray supports adding tiers later before committing to a fixed tier count if your document volume might grow.
Does the tray's finish matter beyond looks?
Not functionally, but a mismatched finish is more noticeable next to your other desk accessories in person than in an isolated product photo, check it against your actual setup.
Are wire trays easier to keep clean than plastic ones?
Generally yes, open wire mesh sheds dust with a quick wipe, while enclosed plastic or wood trays trap debris in the corners and need more deliberate cleaning.
Bottom Line
Best overall: Marbrasse 2 Tier Paper Organizer Letter Tray — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all paper trays and letter trays under $20 on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.