With growing demand for a healthier work-life balance, standing desks are becoming more popular day by day. As compared with traditional sitting desks, the standing workstation improves productivity and provides comfort. It is considered a healthy alternative because it reduces back pain, neck pain, and promotes good health.
However, it is crucial to choose a standing desk that matches your height. Otherwise, it can cause physical distress if not selected wisely. For example, a standing desk with an uneven height can hamper your back posture, comfort, health, and overall well-being.
There are multiple factors involved that help in deciding the right height of a standing desk. If you're not aware of those factors, this blog will guide you through them to ensure you make the right choice.
Standing Desk Height as Per Your Height
There is no perfect size that fits all approaches for standing desk height. Therefore, make sure to discover the right standing desk as per your needs and height. The standard height of the desk starts from 36 inches and varies till 47 inches based on height starting from 5' 0 ft to 6' 5 ft.
If your elbow forms a 90-degree angle while typing or writing, the desk is at the right height. Explore the table given below to figure out your ideal choice and avoid any future physical inconvenience.
| Your Height (in Feet) | Standing Desk Height (in Inches) |
| 5’0 | 36.5” |
| 5’1 | 37” |
| 5’2 | 37.5” |
| 5’3 | 38” |
| 5’4 | 39” |
| 5’5 | 39.5” |
| 5’6 | 40.5" |
| 5’7 | 41” |
| 5’8 | 41.5” |
| 5’9 | 42.5” |
| 5’10 | 43” |
| 5’11 | 43.5” |
| 6’0 | 44” |
| 6’1 | 44.5” |
| 6’2 | 44.5” |
| 6’3 | 46” |
| 6’4 | 47” |
| 6’5 | 47.5” |
How to Decide the Right Height of a Standing Desk?
Apart from height, there are other additional factors that one should consider while selecting a standing desk. Here are some of them:
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Desk Depth: Make sure to check the depth because a desk with deeper depth helps you adjust your elbow position comfortably. This will also make the use of a monitor or mouse easy.
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Monitor Placement: The top third of your monitor should be at the same level as your eyesight. This is done to prevent neck strain and maintain the right neck posture.
5 Steps to Follow While Determining the Ideal Height
Step 1: Check Your Elbow Height
In the first step, measure the distance between your elbows and the ground. During the process, stand straight, keep your shoulders relaxed, and rest your arms at your sides. Ask for help if you need to note down the measurements for further use.
Step 2: Mark 1-2 Inches to Elbow Height
Add 1" or 2" to the measured elbow to ensure comfortable arm positioning. This avoids strain on your shoulders and neck. This step helps in aligning your workstation with your original body posture to ensure you work comfortably while standing for long hours.
Step 3: Make Changes as Per Personal Comfort
The calculation done in the first 2 steps will help you find an ideal standing desk. However, the comfort level varies from person to person. Hence, it is good to check and feel the comfort of your shoulders, arms, and neck on the desk. Avoid choosing too low or too high a desk level, as both can cause poor posture.
Step 4: Place the Monitor Equal to Your Eyesight Level
The placement of the monitor also plays a crucial role in selecting a standing desk. The screen should be 18-24 inches from your face, at eye level. Uneven monitor placement can cause pain in your eyes and neck. You can adjust the screen's top third to your eye level by using monitor risers or stands. These are some affordable options that allow ergonomic positioning.
Step 5: Use and Test for a Few Days
Check and use your standing desk for 2-3 days and observe your comfort and the areas that cause discomfort. If the desk doesn't meet your needs, then go with a different model or make adjustments if possible.
How to Calculate the Minimum and Maximum Height of a Standing Desk?
Check Your Height With Shoes On
Checking your height with your shoes on will help you determine your ideal standing desk height. While measuring, stand straight with your heels against a wall, keeping your head at level. Measure the distance from the floor to the top of your head by using a tape measure. It is important to follow this step to determine the accurate working height for a better ergonomic setup.
Deduct 30 Inches to Check the Minimum Height
Once you're done with the first step, calculate the minimum height of the standing desk. In this step, deduct 30 inches from your exact height with shoes on, and you'll get your minimum height. For example, a person with 71 inches will require a standing desk with a minimum height of 41 inches. Using these dimensions for choosing and adjusting a standing desk will ensure you get comfort without hunching over.
Subtract 28 Inches to Check the Maximum Height
In this step, repeat the same process but deduct 28 inches from your exact height. This calculation will help you discover the ideal maximum height of a standing desk. Using the same example, a person with 71 inches will require a standing desk with a maximum height of 43 inches.
2 Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using a Standing Desk
Here are 2 common mistakes that you should avoid while setting up a standing desk:
Uneven Height
Make sure your desk is neither too high nor too low, as it can impact your comfort and create musculoskeletal problems. Make sure to frequently check and adjust the desk height to avoid strain and fatigue.
Same Posture for Hours
Staying and working in a static posture for hours is not healthy. Therefore, it is important to move every 15 to 20 minutes. Take short breaks and sit for a while to ensure you work for hours without any discomfort.
To Conclude
Fixing these errors will help you build a healthier and productive workstation. However, if you are not able to figure out the accurate height, then use an ergonomic calculator or consult an expert. A professional will help you with the calculation and determine the right desk that matches your exact height.
Making sure you create the right and comfortable workspace will help in balancing posture, reducing fatigue, and most importantly, promoting productive output.
