Desk Height Guide:

How to Choose the Perfect Size

With many students shifting to online learning, having a proper work space has become more important than ever. Believe it or not, having the right desk height and setup can have a huge impact on your productivity, posture and overall health.

Luckily, there are many types of desks to fit your space and style. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the impact your desk height has and how to choose the right desk that suits your needs.

Average Desk Height

The standard desk height typically ranges from 28 to 30 inches and is best suited for people around 5 feet 8 inches tall. It is based on people’s average height, and should give you the ability to rest your shoulders and elbows in a comfortable posture.

The standard desk dimensions are measured by looking at the distance from the floor to the top of the desk. If you’re shorter, you may want to consider a desk height lower than 28 inches. When sitting at your desk, your elbows should be at the same level as your keyboard.

If your desk is too high, it could cause discomfort in your hands, wrists and elbows if sitting for a long period of time. On the other hand, having a desk that is too low can make you hunch over, causing you to overextend your arms and experience discomfort in your neck and back.  

How High Should My Desk Chair Be?

Your desk and chair go hand in hand. In order to be in the most comfortable position, you may need to adjust your office chair height. Your elbows should be in line with the top of your desk and lay comfortably on the arms of your chair if applicable. Your feet should sit flat on the floor, and your knees should be in line with your hips.

Standing Desk Height

The average standing desk height ranges from 35 to 47 inches, but most can be adjusted. Adjustable desks, or sit-stand desks, are great options for those who need to be at their desk for a long period of time or for those who have trouble finding a suitable traditional desk and need a lower height. 

If you already have a traditional desk, but would like the option to stand, try a desk riser. A desk riser can be placed on top of your desk, elevating your computer and keyboard.

While most people prefer sitting at their desk, sitting for too long can cause strain to certain body parts, which leads to chronic pain and other health-related issues. Standing up and giving yourself and your muscles a break can help ease any pain and discomfort.  

How To Choose a Desk That’s Right for You

Finding the right desk height is important, but choosing a desk that fits your needs and style matters just as much. Here are a few tips to help you choose a desk that’s the perfect fit for you:

Consider Your Height

Finding a desk that’s suitable for your height is key to having the most comfortable and productive work area. As a general rule of thumb, your feet should be able to comfortably reach the floor and lay flat, with your forearms resting flat on top of the desk in a 90-degree angle.

To find the correct height for your desk, start by sitting in your chair in a comfortable position with your feet flat on the ground. Place your arms in a right angle, parallel to the floor. Measure the distance from your elbow to the floor and this will give you your perfect desk height.

Plan for Your Needs

While standing desks are great options for those who are at their desks for long periods of time, they aren’t always necessary if your workstation isn’t being used as often. 

Consider a sitting desk if:

• You sit at your desk for short periods of time
  
• Your workload is light
• You need a larger desk surface area
  
• You prefer more storage at your desk

Consider a sit-stand adjustable desk if:  

• You need to relieve the stress of sitting for too long
  
• Your work requires you to get up and move to different areas
  
• You work on a laptop and don’t need a large desk top
  

With all of these factors taken into consideration, you’ll know what desk height to choose that will help you give you optimal space and comfort to get your work done.  

Have Fun With the Style

Of course, the style of your desk plays also an important role in what desk you choose. Your desk height can differ depending on the desk style that fits your needs.

For example, desks with built in storage, such as hutch desks, may be a bit taller. Hutch desks are good for organizing clutter and creating storage space, but may take up more area in a room.  

If you’re working with a smaller space, try a wall mounted desk or versatile wall desk. Wall mounted desks are a subtle option. They can double as a nightstand or be hidden from sight when not in use.

Corner desks are beneficial if you are looking for more table room. Though there’s no difference in height with this style, it does provide more work space and the bonus of added storage space.

Your desk plays a big role in designing a creative and comfortable work space at home. Browse through our selection of computer desks for inspiration and design choices for your study space.