What is the correct height for a desk?

Discovering your optimal desk height can transform your working experience. At the right height, discomfort is minimized and productivity is maximized. So let's break down how you can determine the ideal desk height for your needs.

What is the proper height to sit at a desk?

While everyone might vary slightly, a desk height of approximately 28 inches (or 71.12cm) tends to be suitable for those standing between 5'8"(172.72 cm) and 5'10"(177.8 cm) in height.

This is considering the critical detail that your elbow manages to create a comfortable angle between 90 degrees and 110 degrees while you're working. Desk height and body proportions are critical factors in maintaining proper posture and minimizing strain on your muscles and joints.

How to Find the Perfect Desk Height based on Your Height

What is the perfect desk height for my height?

Your optimal desk height largely depends on your own height. If you’re sitting at an inappropriate desk height, you could experience discomfort or physical issues over the long term.

Your desk should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor and your wrists to be at or below the level of your elbows when your shoulders are relaxed. By aligning our chairs and desks according to this principle, we can create a workspace that promotes health and efficiency.

Is it better to have a desk too high or too low?

Both extremes—sitting too high or too low at your desk—are not advisable. Each scenario can prompt a tendency to slump, leading to strains on your shoulder and arm muscles. Over time, these unhealthy postures may result in long-term postural defects.

Striking a balance is crucial hence, determining the optimal desk height based on your measurements and comfort level is the key. In certain conditions where you're dealing with lower back pain from sitting, it becomes exceedingly important to get your desk height right.

Is 32 inches too high for a desk?

Generally, desk heights between 28 and 30 inches are considered standard. However, for the purpose of keyboard use, these measurements can often be uncomfortably high.

Implementing beneficial additions like a keyboard tray can help address this issue. It can lower the keyboard to a more comfortable height, often about 4 inches below the desk's top surface. Always aim for maximum comfort and minimal strain for optimal workstation layout.

If you're still not sure what your ideal desk height is, we encourage you to use our desk height calculator.

Learn if 36 inches too high for a desk here. 

Conclusion

Finding your perfect desk height may take a bit of testing and tweaking, but the payoff is well worth the effort. When you prioritize ergonomics, you encourage a healthier posture, reduce the risk of work-related injuries, and increase efficiency on the job. Discover the desk height that lets you work comfortably and optimally. Your body, productivity, and overall work experience will thank you for it.