How to Determine the Ideal Standing Desk Height?

Are you considering making the switch to a standing desk? Or, have you already made the switch but are unsure if your workstation is set up correctly to support your body's needs?

Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular due to their potential health and productivity benefits. However, to realize those benefits, your standing desk must be adjusted at just the right height to fit your particular body size, shape, and measurements.

In this blog post, we'll discuss how you can properly adjust the height of your standing desk so that you can use it ergonomically while still increasing comfort and efficiency. Let's get started!

Why is the Height of the Standing Desk Important to Consider?

The height of a standing desk is an essential factor to consider when setting up an ergonomic workspace.

Ergonomics

The height of a standing desk is critical for maintaining proper ergonomic posture while working. Poor posture can cause discomfort and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back, leading to long-term health issues. An ideal height ensures that the user's spine remains neutral, promoting better circulation and reducing the risk of injury.

Comfort

The height of a standing desk can affect the user's comfort level, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. A desk that is too high or too low can cause discomfort, leading to distractions and decreased concentration.

Productivity

A properly adjusted standing desk can boost productivity by promoting good posture, reducing fatigue and discomfort, and increasing energy levels. When the body is comfortable and relaxed, the mind can focus better on the task, increasing efficiency and productivity.

What is the Standard Standing Desk Height?

Generally, the ideal height for a standing desk is 30 inches. However, this may not be suitable if you are considerably shorter or taller than average.

Your desk should be designed to ensure you are always in an ergonomic position, with your feet flat on the ground, elbows bent at a 90-degree angle, and wrists aligned.

This ensures that the user's spine remains neutral, promoting better circulation and reducing the risk of injury.

Source: Freepik

Factors to Consider When Determining the Height of Your Standing Desk

Let's discuss the factors to consider when determining the height of your standing desk, so you can work comfortably and efficiently.

Your Height

One of the most important factors to consider when determining the height of your standing desk is your height. The standing height of the desk should be set to accommodate your height comfortably, ensuring that you can stand with your feet flat on the ground, your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle, and your wrists in a neutral position. To determine the ideal desk height for your height, follow the steps below:

• Stand up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
• Bend your elbows to a 90-degree angle.
• Measure the distance from the floor to your elbows.
• Subtract one to two inches from this measurement to determine your desk height.

For example, if your elbow height is 44 inches, subtracting one to two inches will give you a desk height of 42 to 43 inches.

Type of Shoes You Wear

The type of shoes you wear can also affect the height of your standing desk. If you typically wear high heels or thick-soled shoes, you may need to adjust the desk height to accommodate the extra height. Conversely, if you wear flat shoes or go barefoot, you may need to adjust the desk height to a lower setting.

Your Monitor Height

Setting up your standing desk correctly is essential for optimal comfort and ergonomics. To ensure the appropriate height:

1. Position: When held at a right angle, you should position it 20-28 inches (51-71 cm) from your face or roughly the distance between the tip of your middle finger to your elbow.
2. Screen: Adjust its tilt such that the top of your screen is exactly at eye level with an upward angle ranging from 10 - 20 degrees; this will make sure you never have to crane down or up while using it.

This ensures that your neck remains neutral, reducing the risk of strain or injury. If your monitor is too low or too high, you may need to adjust the desk height to compensate.

The ideal desk height can reduce eye strain and prevent you from having to move your head inappropriately as an adjustment.

Your Work Surface

The height of your work surface can also affect the height of your standing desk. If your work surface is thick, you may need to adjust the desk height to compensate for the extra height.

Conversely, if your work surface is thin, you may need to adjust the desk height to a lower setting.

Your Keyboard Height

The height of your keyboard can also affect the height of your standing desk. Your keyboard should be at elbow height, with your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle.

This ensures that your wrists remain neutral, reducing the risk of strain or injury. If your keyboard is too high or too low, you may need to adjust the desk height to compensate.

Your Comfort Level

Ultimately, the height of your standing desk should be comfortable for you. You may need to adjust the height if you experience discomfort or pain while standing at your desk.

Experiment with different heights until you find a comfortable setting that allows you to work comfortably and efficiently.

Measuring Your Ideal Desk Height: Step-by-Step Guide

Here are steps that you can follow to measure your ideal desk height:

Step #1. Stand up straight with your feet flat on the floor.

Start by standing with good posture, with your feet flat on the floor and your shoulders relaxed. Measuring your ideal standing desk height from a neutral, natural position is important.

Step #2. Let your arms hang naturally at your sides.

Allow your arms to hang naturally at your sides without tensing or bending your elbows. This will help you determine the natural height of your forearms.

Step 3. Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle

Bend your elbows so that your forearms are at a 90-degree angle to your upper arms, and lift them until they are parallel to the floor. This will simulate the position of your arms when typing or using a mouse at your standing desk.

Step #4. Keep your wrists straight and your hands level with your elbows.

Check that your wrists are straight and your hands are level with your elbows. This will help you avoid strain on your wrists and arms when working at your standing desk.

Step #5. Ask a friend or colleague to measure the distance from the floor to your elbow.

Finally, ask a friend or colleague to measure the distance from the floor to your elbow. This measurement will give you the ideal height for your standing desk. Make sure to record this measurement so you can adjust your standing desk to the correct height.

Tips for Adjusting Your Standing Desk Height

Here are some tips:

• Use a Height-Adjustable Desk: A height-adjustable desk is the easiest way to adjust the height of your standing desk. These desks typically feature a lever or button to raise or lower the desk height to your preferred setting.
• Use a Desk Converter: If you already have a desk that you love but it's not adjustable, you can use a desk converter to transform it into a standing desk. Desk converters sit on top of your existing desk and feature adjustable height settings, allowing you to adjust the height to your preferred setting.
• Use a Footrest: If your feet don't reach the ground comfortably while standing at your desk, you can use a footrest to provide extra support. A footrest can also help reduce fatigue and discomfort in your feet and legs while standing for long periods.

How Long Should You Stand at a Standing Desk?

Standing for long periods of time can cause fatigue and discomfort. To avoid this, experts recommend alternating between seated and standing positions throughout the day. Generally, you should aim to stand for one to three hours at a time. We advise you to:

• Take Breaks: While standing desks offer many health benefits, taking breaks throughout the day is essential. Standing for extended periods can also cause discomfort and fatigue in your legs and feet. Experts recommend taking short breaks every 30 minutes to stretch your legs, move around, or even sit for a few minutes.
• Use Good Posture: When standing at your desk, it's important to use good posture. Keep your back straight and chest open with your shoulders pulled back. This helps reduce stress on your spine, neck, and shoulders while standing.
• Make Small Adjustments: It's important to make small adjustments to your desk height, monitor height, and keyboard height until you find the perfect fit for your body. Start with small adjustments and observe how your body responds before making more significant changes.
• Seek Professional Help: If you experience significant discomfort or pain while standing at your desk, it's essential to seek professional help. An ergonomics specialist can assess your workspace and recommend the best standing desk height and other ergonomic adjustments to reduce discomfort and prevent injury.

Here are 3 Best height-adjustable Standing Desks

When selecting the perfect standing desk, it's essential to research your options and make sure you find one that meets all of your needs. With so many different types, this can be tricky but is crucial for optimal productivity.

#1. Standing Desk with Keyboard Tray

The Standing Desk with Keyboard Tray is a great option for those who need a compact and functional workspace.

This desk features a sturdy steel frame and an adjustable height range of 27 inches to 44.5 inches, providing a comfortable working height for users of different heights.

The desk's spacious work surface provides ample space of 28" by 44" for a monitor, a keyboard, and other work essentials, making it a great choice for those who need a functional and ergonomic workspace.

What We Like?

• Adjustable height range of 27" to 44.5"
• Spacious work surface of 28" by 44"
• Features a sturdy steel frame

#2. Triple Motor L-shaped Standing Desk with Upper Drawers V2

The Triple Motor L-shaped Standing Desk with Upper Drawers V2 features a spacious L-shaped design that provides a desktop size of 63" by 48" for multiple monitors, a keyboard, and other work essentials.

The desk's height can be adjusted from 26.9 inches to 46.6 inches, providing a comfortable working height for users of different heights. The desk's sturdy metal frame ensures stability and durability.

What We Like?

• Spacious L-shaped design
• Adjustable height range of 26.9" to 46.6"
• Features a sturdy metal frame
• Sturdy upper drawers for additional storage

#3. Brasa Electric Standing Desk with Upper Double Drawer

The Brasa Electric Standing Desk with Upper Double Drawer is ideal for a stylish and functional workspace. This desk features a sleek and modern design, with an adjustable height range of 27.5 inches to 45 inches, providing a comfortable working height for users of different heights. The desk's electric motor allows for smooth and quiet adjustments.

What We Like?

• Adjustable height range of 27.5" to 45"
• Features an electric motor for smooth and quiet adjustments
• Stylish and modern design
• Upper double drawer for additional storage space

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best height for a standing desk?

A: While your height, the equipment you use, and daily tasks can all play a role in determining the ideal computer desk height for you, the average desk height for a 5'11" (180 cm) person would be about 44 inches (111 cm) high.

Q: Is my desk too high or too low?

A: If you experience discomfort while standing at your desk, it may be too high or too low. An ergonomics specialist can assess your workspace and recommend the best standing desk height and other ergonomic adjustments to reduce discomfort.

Conclusion

Selecting the right height for your standing desk is essential to promote better health, productivity, and comfort while working.

Factors such as your height, the type of shoes you wear, your work surface, monitor height, keyboard height, and comfort level should all be considered when determining the height of your standing desk.