How High Should a Standing Desk Be?

A standing desk should be set at about elbow height, so your elbows bend at 90 degrees and your forearms rest level on the desk surface. The top third of your screen should sit at eye level, and the same rules apply when you sit.

Now that you’ve got your adjustable standing desk assembled, it’s time to set it to that height so you can work in comfort.

Choosing a sit-stand workstation is a good first step toward a more ergonomic lifestyle, but the wrong height setting can cause more harm than help. Having the height of your desk set too high or too low can strain your eyes, neck, and back.

Setting your desk to the right height is a key step toward an ergonomic workspace, and it lets you get the most from the benefits of working at a standing desk.

So, what is the ideal height for your standing desk? Here’s a simple guide to finding your best sitting and standing heights.

What Should You Know Before Setting Your Standing Desk Height?

Before setting your standing desk height, plan to alternate between sitting and standing, keep your feet flat, and place your monitor 18 to 24 inches away.

Many people use standing desks to stay alert while working, without breaking focus to take a walk. The good news is, standing up doesn't mean standing still!

While they’re called “standing desks," experts recommend that you alternate between sitting and standing while working. It's all about getting the right amount of movement through the day.

Many people switch positions every 30 to 60 minutes to stay alert and focused. Shifting your weight from one leg to the other while you stand, also known as active standing, keeps your muscles moving too.

Sitting or standing at your sit-stand desk, your feet should be flat on the floor in a comfortable position. If your feet don’t reach the ground when you’re sitting, try a footrest to take the pressure off your legs and lower back.

For foot support while standing, use an anti-fatigue mat to cushion your stance and ease stress on your muscles and joints. (When planning to sit for long periods, why not treat your body to the Aery Ergonomic Chair?)

Place your monitor 18 to 24 inches away to keep from straining your neck, shoulders and eyes. A monitor mount makes those adjustments simple.

Most importantly, make sure the desk is at the right height for you. Look for electric standing desks with memory presets so you can return to your heights with the push of a button.

What Is the Proper Height for a Standing Desk?

The proper standing desk height is roughly your elbow height, with your elbows bent at 90 degrees and your wrists straight while you type.

At that height, you can sit and stand with good posture without straining any part of your body to do your work.

How Do You Find the Perfect Standing Desk Height?

Find your standing desk height by raising the desk until your forearms rest level at elbow height, then save that height as a memory preset.

Use this checklist, sitting or standing:

• Your forearms and wrists should rest comfortably on the desk surface, with your elbows bent at a 90 degree angle.
• When you look straight ahead, the top one-third of your computer screen should be at eye level.
• Your keyboard and mouse should both be on the same level, and within reach. Place them close to you so you’re not repeatedly reaching for things.
• Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, on an anti-fatigue mat for the best support.
• If your setup includes a keyboard tray or adjustable arm supports, set them so your shoulders are relaxed.
• Keep your wrists straight and in a neutral position to reduce strain linked to carpal tunnel syndrome and “computer elbow.” (Check out some elbow pain relief tips here!)

When you’re setting up your standing desk, move the tabletop up and down to find the right height for you. The best setting is usually close to elbow height. effydesk keypads store 4 memory presets, so you can save your sitting and standing heights and set it and forget it.

PRO TIP: Make sure you’re not leaning on your forearms or locking your knees while you work. Check out our tips on how to fix common standing desk mistakes!

Don’t forget to make small adjustments as needed. Shoes, mats, and even small changes through the day can mean you need to change the height of your workspace.

What Is the Best Standing Desk for Tall People?

The best standing desk for tall people reaches at least 50 inches, and every Nimble, Terra, Wildwood and Grove desk from effydesk adjusts from 23" to 50".

Some standing desks only go up to 44 inches, so that extra height range matters if you are tall. Our standing desk height chart below shows a suggested desk height for your body height. Use it as a starting point when you set your desk.

This chart, based on data from the Cornell University School of Ergonomics, shows that people up to 6’5'' can use the Nimble, Terra or Grove standing desks!

Of course, exact height varies from person to person, so make sure you’re tailoring the height to fit your needs. With a 23" to 50" height range and 4 memory presets, effydesk standing desks make it easy to keep a comfortable, ergonomic workday.

Work Smarter with effydesk

A standing desk is a long-term investment for your health and productivity, so you want to make sure you’re choosing the right one that suits your needs.

Shop with confidence at effydesk: every standing desk is backed by a 20-year warranty on the frame, motors and electronics, and our staff are just a click away to answer any questions you may have. We design electric standing desks in Vancouver and ship them free to your door across Canada and the US.

Our ergonomic office chairs help office workers avoid desk job damage and keep up efficiency and morale at work, wherever that may be for you.

Browse our Standing Desks, Office Chairs and Monitor Arms, designed to help you get more done, more comfortably. Try any desk or chair for 100 days.

To learn more about effydesk’s ergonomic products and services, check out our FAQ page or browse the blog archive for other helpful articles on ergonomics in the workplace.