Let’s be honest—when it comes to choosing the perfect desk, most of us focus on how it looks or how much surface space it offers. But there’s one detail that plays a much bigger role in your day-to-day comfort than you might realise: desk height.
Whether you’re setting up a home office, fitting out a workspace, or upgrading your standing desk, getting the height right is essential for posture, productivity and long-term comfort.
What is Desk Height?
Desk height is the measurement from the floor to the surface of a desk. In most cases, the standard desk height is around 73 cm (or 29 inches), suitable for the average person between 165 cm and 185 cm tall. However, with increasing demand for ergonomic solutions, many workers are opting for height adjustable desks NZ, which can be tailored to individual needs for comfort and efficiency.
The Importance of Proper Desk Height
The correct desk height is critical for maintaining good posture and preventing discomfort. An improperly adjusted desk can lead to neck strain, back pain, and wrist fatigue, affecting both health and productivity. By investing in solutions like a standing desk or an electric height adjustable desk, you can create a workspace that supports your body’s natural alignment.
Why Desk Height Matters for Comfort and Health
A desk that is too high or too low can cause repetitive strain injuries and physical stress over time. The right height supports a neutral position, with your elbows at a 90-degree angle and your wrists straight. Adjustable desks allow you to easily find the ideal table height for sitting or standing, promoting better health and focus.
Standing Desk Keyboard Height
For a standing desk, the keyboard should be positioned at elbow height. This ensures your wrists remain straight and your shoulders relaxed, preventing strain during prolonged use. The average standing desk keyboard height ranges between 90-120 cm, depending on your height and workspace setup.
How Tall Should a Keyboard Stand Be?
A keyboard stand should align with your elbows to maintain a natural typing posture. For users of height adjustable desks, this can be easily adjusted to match their preferred desk height, whether sitting or standing.
What is the Standard Desk Height?
The standard desk height for seated work is around 73 to 75 cm from the floor to the top of the desktop. This suits the average adult, particularly if you’re between 5'8" and 6'0" tall. But of course, not everyone fits the “average”—and that’s where personalisation comes into play.
The easiest way to check if a desk height suits you? Sit with your elbows bent at 90 degrees, forearms resting naturally on the surface. If your shoulders are relaxed and your wrists aren’t bent up or down, you’re in the right zone.
If you're using a standing desk, the ideal height is when your elbows remain at 90 degrees while standing, with your monitor at or just below eye level.
Can a desk be too high?
If your desk feels too high, try adjusting your chair upwards and adding a footrest for support. Alternatively, look at height-adjustable desks that allow you to fine-tune the setup to suit your frame.
A desk that’s too high can lead to:
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Shoulder and neck tension
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Poor wrist alignment
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Tired, hunched posture by the end of the day.
If you find yourself reaching upwards to type or write, or you’re constantly shifting in your chair to get comfortable, your desk height might be to blame.
What if my desk height is too low?
A desk that’s too low forces you to hunch forward, dropping your shoulders and rounding your spine. Over time, that can lead to back pain and fatigue—not to mention less focus.
Some quick fixes:
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Raise your monitor with a stand or riser
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Use a seat cushion to boost your sitting height
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Consider replacing your desk with one that’s adjustable or better suited to your proportions.
The goal is always the same: keep your body in a neutral, supported position.
What about the width of my desk?
In terms of width (not height), 1200 mm is generally considered the minimum size for a practical office desk. It gives you enough room for a laptop or monitor, keyboard, mouse and some workspace for notes or accessories.
However, if you use multiple screens, need extra gear on your desktop, or simply prefer a more spacious feel, a 1500 mm or 1800 mm desk might be a better fit.
Don’t forget to think about depth, too. A standard depth of around 600 – 800 mm ensures you have enough distance between your eyes and the screen—especially important for larger monitors.
How to Determine Your Ideal Desk Height?
To determine your ideal table height, sit or stand in your natural working position. Your elbows should form a 90-degree angle, with your forearms parallel to the desk surface. For seated setups, ensure your feet are flat on the floor, and for standing setups, keep your screen at eye level.
What is the Correct Height for a Laptop Desk?
When using a laptop, it’s essential to set up your workspace ergonomically. The correct height for a laptop desk places the screen at eye level and the keyboard at elbow height. This prevents slouching and wrist strain, making your workspace more comfortable for extended use.
Ergonomics and Desk Height Adjustment
Ergonomics is about creating a workspace that fits your body, reducing discomfort and improving productivity. A height adjustable desk is a versatile tool that allows you to shift between sitting and standing, ensuring your desk supports your posture and movement.
Ergonomic Guidelines for Desk Setup
- Screen Position: Align the top of your screen with your eye level to avoid neck strain.
- Keyboard and Mouse: Keep these at elbow height for a neutral wrist position.
- Chair and Foot Placement: For seated work, ensure your chair supports your lower back and your feet are flat on the floor.
- Adjustable Desks for Flexible Workspaces
Modern workspaces demand flexibility, and adjustable desks, like electric height adjustable desks, are designed to meet this need. These desks can accommodate multiple users, support various tasks, and improve workplace ergonomics, making them a valuable investment for both offices and home setups.
The Impact of Desk Height on Productivity and Health
The height of your desk plays a significant role in your physical comfort and work performance. A well-adjusted desk reduces the risk of strain, improves posture, and keeps you focused and energized throughout the day.
How Desk Height Affects Your Posture and Energy
The right desk height helps you maintain a neutral spine and relaxed shoulders, reducing fatigue and discomfort. Whether you’re using a standing desk or a seated desk, finding the average desk height cm that works for you can greatly impact your posture and overall energy levels.
Productivity Benefits of Optimal Desk Height
An ergonomic workspace enhances productivity by keeping you comfortable and focused. Adjustable desks, including electric height adjustable desks, encourage movement, which can prevent stiffness and boost energy.
The correct desk height is essential for a healthy and productive workspace. Whether you choose a fixed standard desk height or a flexible height adjustable desk, consider your ergonomic needs and preferences. Adjustable desks not only provide comfort but also help you maintain good posture and focus throughout the day.
Key Takeaways:
- A proper desk height supports comfort and reduces strain.
- Standing desks and electric height adjustable desks offer tailored solutions for various users.
- The right desk height enhances productivity, energy, and overall well-being.