The 8 Best Desktop Reference Systems

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in November of 2018. If you're looking for a simple way to keep frequently used documents at your fingertips, consider picking up a desktop reference system. These nifty table-mounted folders ensure that every important article remains organized and accessible as you work. They're wonderful for storing contracts, assignments, and pretty much any other piece of paper you can't afford to lose track of. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in November of 2018. If you're looking for a simple way to keep frequently used documents at your fingertips, consider picking up a desktop reference system. These nifty table-mounted folders ensure that every important article remains organized and accessible as you work. They're wonderful for storing contracts, assignments, and pretty much any other piece of paper you can't afford to lose track of. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Durable Vario

It's easy to locate the article you need in the Durable Vario (appx. $52) thanks to its color-coded pages. One of this model's coolest features is its wall-mount capability, which makes it a fitting choice for busy professional environments.

Antimicrobial version available
Stands up well to heavy use
Thick polypropylene sleeves

2. Tarifold Starter

The Tarifold Starter (about $62) boasts a broad stand that won't wobble as you flip through your files. It comes with 10 pockets but can expand to accommodate 30, which should appeal to anyone who expects their collection of critical documents to grow over time.

Index tabs snap on and off easily
Edges are reinforced with wire
Simple to add and remove pages

3. MasterView Modular Charcoal

The MasterView Modular Charcoal (around $88) features twelve removable sleeves measuring 8.5 by 11 inches each, which allow for a total of 24 letter-sized documents. There is also a convenient sticky note dispenser built right into the base of this unit.

Glare-free materials
Sturdy plastic construction
Doesn't take up too much space

4. Aidata Basic Organizer

The spine of the Aidata Basic Organizer (around $66) is tilted at an optimal 25 degrees, so you can read comfortably without having to adjust your position. Additionally, its base is weighted to keep it firmly in place as you turn each page.

Nail holes for hanging
Shape isn't bulky
Some assembly required

5. Fellowes Rack

The Fellowes Rack (about $31) can be adjusted at two points according to your preference. And you won't have to give up too much desk space with this one, either, as it has a super-slim profile that's nicely suited to small cubicles and shared work areas.

Can hold up to 20 documents
Reasonably priced
Somewhat prone to tipping over

6. Aidata Flip and Find

The Aidata Flip and Find (appx. $134) is a fantastic option for conference rooms, as it rotates a full 360 degrees. Its base has multiple compartments built in for storing other supplies, like business cards, paper clips, tape, and more.

Large 60-letter capacity
Spine is expandable
Pricier than similar options

7. Durable Sherpa

The Durable Sherpa (around $69) features a clever tripod-style base with rounded feet that minimize the chance of your desk becoming scuffed. It comes in multiple sizes and colors, making it easy to find a perfect fit for any corporate or home office.

Articulated arm version available
Award-winning design
Can be difficult to insert paper

8. Aidata Rotary

The Aidata Rotary (around $98) has a simple design with a sleek, circular base and a display panel capable of being tilted to any angle between zero and 90 degrees. Its 10 pockets sport tabs that allow you to easily locate each document.

Gray color matches most decor
Useful for storing recipes
Not especially durable

Last updated by Taber Koeghan

Taber is a writer from Santa Monica, CA, with a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of California, San Diego. After completing her degree, she began writing and editing copy for a host of high-traffic e-commerce websites. Her areas of expertise include the beauty, style, pet, and home products categories, and she has plenty of experience covering literature and art, too. Her personal interests in crafting and decorating inform her writing and -- she hopes -- add a good bit of insight to her work. Outside of copywriting, she is a reporter and columnist at a Los Angeles community newspaper and is currently pursuing a master of fine arts in creative writing.

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