The ergonomic height for a desk has become a vital discourse for this generation. Research shows that about 86 percent of Americans work on a desk. Each of these people needs an ergonomic desk to protect their health and posture, as well as increase their comfort and productivity at work. That is why our editorial team went all out to find out about the ergonomic height for desks. This post contains all our findings on the subject.

What is the ergonomic height for a desk? The ergonomic height for your desk is that height where your elbow is at the same level as the desk’s top while you’re using it. That means the ergonomic height for a desk, therefore, depends on the height of the person using the desk. The height of standard desks is usually between 28 and 30 inches, which is the ergonomic desk height for people that are about 6ft. tall. 

Experts say that the average desk height on the market is not ergonomic for most American adults. What’s more, the ergonomic desk height for each individual is slightly different. You should consider a few factors to determine the ergonomic height of your desk. As you read on, we will explain these different factors.

Is The Standard Desk Height Ergonomic For The Average Adult?

The standard desk height is not ergonomic for the average adult in America. These standard desks are ergonomic for people about 6 feet tall or a little less. Conversely, the average American adult is shorter than 6 feet. These people need a custom desk height for their comfort, health, and productivity. Adjustable desks that you can adjust anywhere from 22 to 33 inches would be ergonomic for most American adults.

All desks are about the same size, but that cannot be said for every human. Humans are of different heights, and so should their desks. While the average desk height is ideal for 6ft. tall people, the adult in America is about 5ft. 9 inches tall for males and 5ft. 4 inches for females. 

Going by the statistics above, most American adults are working at a desk that is not ergonomic for them. The average desk in the market is too tall for the average American adult. What’s more, some people are taller than 6 ft., so they need taller desks.

What Should Be My Desk’s Height?

Your ideal desk height is that height where your arms will be at right angles while resting on the desk. That means the desk’s top should be parallel to your elbow level. The exact height where the body takes this position differs based on body specifics and work position (standing or sitting).

✅ Video – Ergo Diva Says Find Your Perfect Desk Height

This video contains visuals of how to set the perfect desk height for you. Ergo Diva explains and demonstrates how to adjust your desk for both standing and sitting positions. If you need a visual guide to help you adjust your desk height, you should watch this video.

Two people of the same height may have a different arm, neck, or torso length. In this case, the same desk height may not be ergonomic for the two of them. Your best shot at using an ergonomic desk is to get an adjustable height desk and adjust its height to fit your body specifics and position per time.

What Is The Ergonomic Desk Height For The Average Adult?

The average male American adult is about 5ft. 9 inches. These people should use an ergonomic desk height of 27 inches for the sitting position. They need a 42.5 inches tall table for the standing position. Conversely, the average female American adult is about 5ft. 4 inches tall. These people should use an ergonomic desk height of 23 inches for the standing position. They need a 38.8 inches tall table for the standing position. 

Adjustable Sit and Stand desks are ideal for workplace ergonomics. So, while you may know the ideal desk height for your height from a desk height ergonomic calculator or chart, it is still better to buy an adjustable desk. That way, you can customize the desk’s height to be ergonomic for you.

What’s more, staying in the same position throughout the day is not so good for your health. As such, a desk that can alternate between sitting and standing positions offers the best desk ergonomics.

How To Set The Ergonomic Height For Your Desk?

To set the ergonomic height for your desk, use your arm and feet position to adjust the desk. Set your desk height such that your arms are resting on the desk in their natural position with your elbows at right angles. If you are sitting, your feet should also be flat on the floor while your knees are at right angles. In this feet position, there should be enough space under the table for your legs.

Arm Position

The ergonomic desk for you lets your arms sit comfortably at right angles. That means your elbows will be bent at 90 degrees when you rest your arms on the desk. Some experts say that any angle between 90 and 100 degrees is okay. If your chair has armrests, raise them to be at the same level as the desk height.

With this arm position, not only will your arms be comfortable, but your neck and shoulders will also not experience strain or discomfort. 

Feet Position

If you are sitting at a desk, make sure to set your feet flat against the floor and your knees at right angles. An ergonomic desk height will have enough space for your leg to stay comfortably under it. What’s more, you should be able to cross your knees under the desk. If your knees are touching the edge of the desk, then raise the desk a little higher.

Related Questions

Why Does Desk Height Matter?

Desk height matters a lot because of its effects on body posture, health, comfort, and workplace productivity. When you use the appropriate desk height with an ergonomic chair, you will escape several health problems and negative consequences, including back injuries, joint pain, and so on. What’s more, your productivity at work will increase by as much as 50 percent.

What Makes A Desk Ergonomic?

The single most important factor for a desk’s ergonomics is its height. A desk that has enough clearance to fit your legs comfortably is ergonomic for you. More importantly, the desk’s top should be at the same height as your elbow, so that your arms can stay comfortably on it. The front edges of the desk should also be soft and comfortable for your wrists to rest on.

How can I improve my posture at my desk?

Good sitting posture at a desk includes sitting up straight on an ergonomic chair and desk. In other words, everything starts with having the proper chair and desk for your height. Then, make sure to sit with the right posture while at the desk. Sit with your back resting in an upright position on the chair. Your arms and legs should also be in their natural position and with no discomfort.

Conclusion

The wrong desk height will negatively affect your work, as well as several areas of your life. It is, therefore, important to use the appropriate desk height for your work. If you are looking for the best ergonomic desk height, the best place to look is your elbows and knees. The desk’s top should be at about your elbow level whether you are sitting or standing. The space under the desk should also be enough to accommodate your legs.

Among other things, using an ergonomic desk helps prevent problems, such as posture issues and back pain in the future. You can use the information in this post to find your right desk height as a means to improve your productivity, health, posture, and comfort. Remember, however, that desk height is only one of the several factors that affect desk and workplace ergonomics.