How to Find a Lectern That Fits Your Needs & Your Desktop
All lecterns theoretically fit on a table or desktop, and, unlike free-standing podiums, lecterns are relatively small and portable.
But some lecterns are less portable than others. Tabletop lecterns come in a variety of sizes and shapes that serve a wide variety of functions.
With so many different models to choose from, how can you tell which portable tabletop lectern is right for you?
5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Tabletop Lectern
1. How portable is the lectern?
“Portable” is a relative term! Get the weight and measurements of a lectern before you buy it.
Make sure you’ll be able to transport the lectern easily, but that it’s big enough to accommodate everything you’ll need.
Other features can enhance portability. Some lecterns fold into a self-contained case for easy storage and transport; others come with special carry bags; still others have retractable legs.
2. What kind of finish fits your room?
If you know where you’re going to be using your lectern, you can pick a look that will match the room, whether with a classic wood finish or a customizable fabric surface you can adorn with signs or fabric.
If you’re going to be using your lectern in several different spaces, select something neutral that will blend in almost anywhere.
3. Does the lectern have shelves and/or storage space for presenters?
Accessible shelves inside a lectern allow for the convenient storage of lecturers’ pointers, papers, and laptop computers while keeping the paraphernalia out of sight until it’s ready for use.
Built-in storage space gives the presenter and the presentation space a more professional look.
4. Does the lectern have a built-in PA System?
Depending on the size of the room or venue in which you’re going to use your lectern, you may need amplification.
Portable tabletop lecterns are available both with and without built-in PA systems.
If you’re going to be in a small conference room or classroom, or if you already have a separate PA system, you may be better off without a built-in PA system.
If you decide to get a built-in sound system, you need to choose a PA system powerful enough to fit your needs. The power needed depends on the size of your audience and the room configuration where you will be using your lectern.
5. Get the Right Microphone for Your Lectern
Most portable tabletop lecterns with built-in PA systems come with microphones.
You may be fine with a standard wired handheld microphone attached to a “goose neck” mount, but if you’re going to pass the mic around during a meeting a wireless handheld microphone may be more suitable. In other cases, a hands-free (headset or lapel) mic may be appropriate.
If you want to add visuals or audio accompaniment to your presentations, you should consider a lectern with auxiliary inputs to connect components like a CD player, projector or computer.
Need More Help Finding a Lectern That’s Right for You?
Check out our selection of portable tabletop lecterns with PA systems, as well as our portable tabletop lectern housings without PAs.
For additional information and assistance in selecting the lectern that’s right for you, email us or call 407-757-3326!
