If you are setting up your workspace, you know that the desk is the centerpiece of the whole setup. Choosing the right one could be a challenge in itself. One of the reasons why this is the case is finding one that is the right height. What exactly is the average height of a desk?
We will look at the answers and more in this guide. The height will be important since the setup will be appropriate for ergonomic sake. Not to mention, the last thing you want to do is work in an awkward position, which can lead to plenty of physical health issues in the future. Let’s get started with what you need to know about the average height of a desk.
What Is the Normal Height of a Standard Desk?
Did you know that the average height of a desk will be anywhere from 29 to 30 inches? This is measured from the floor to the top of the table. The reason why this is the average height is because of the seated height of adults, and it can also accommodate most users even when a standard office chair is used. However, not all desks are designed equally. Therefore, there are plenty of desk types that exist that will accommodate people based on different heights including:
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Office Desks: Once again, the ideal height of these desks will be anywhere from 29 to 30 inches. The standard desk height will typically be set to this unless you choose a different type.
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Standing Desks: These will depend on several factors including the brand and design. You can expect standing desks to range from 24 to 50 inches. This will come down to the user’s preferences.
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Specialty Desks: These include drafting tables, musical workstations, and similar desks like the AnyDesk Nest from TopJob. Each has its own unique height requirements and may exceed the standard.
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Children’s Desks: The standard desk height for children's desks will be approximately 20 to 28 inches.
Knowing this, it may be important to find a desk that will ensure it fits you best in terms of your sitting height. In addition, sitting height and ergonomic needs go hand in hand. You’ll want to find an appropriate height that will allow the monitor to be set at eye level and your elbows to be positioned at 90 degrees while typing.
Why Does the Correct Height of a Desk Matter?
The important thing to note is that the average height of a desk may have an impact on your comfort and productivity. Having the right desk height matters most for these reasons:
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Ergonomics: Of course, we cannot stress the importance of ergonomics. A desk too high or too low will lead to issues like poor posture (leading to back pain and neck strain), increased repetitive stress injuries, and other issues. Again, a desk at the perfect height will need to be aligned with your natural and proper posture.
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Productivity: Indeed, comfort and productivity go hand in hand. It is important to find a desk that will meet your ergonomic needs and allow you to work longer with better efficiency.
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Health: Improper desk height can be associated with long-term health issues. They include chronic back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other related conditions. Going further, such issues can reduce your quality of life. Finding a desk that will allow you to adjust the right height will be necessary.
When choosing your ideal desk, you’ll want to determine which height is appropriate, especially when you are taking ergonomics seriously. What could be the best height for you in particular? The next section will answer this question and more.
What Are the Factors to Consider When Choosing a Desk Height?
We’re going to look at the following factors that you’ll need to consider when choosing a desk height. This will allow you to create a process of elimination when finding desks—be it online or offline. As such, here are the following factors to be aware of:
What Is Your Height?
Your height may determine your ideal desk height. As such, it is important to follow this rule of thumb:
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If you are shorter than 5’4”, a desk height of 26 to 28 inches can be best suited for you.
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Individuals around 6 feet or taller may benefit from a desk that is 30 to 32 inches—or perhaps something more adjustable.
There are plenty of desks, like standing desks, that can accommodate different heights. Be aware of the minimum and maximum height ranges.
Chair Height
Of course, you want the chair and desk to work harmoniously. Once again, let us remind you that your elbows must be at a 90-degree angle when your hands are on the desk. There are plenty of office chairs that will allow you to adjust the height accordingly so you can be able to properly position the elbows (addressing your ergonomic needs).
Keyboard and Monitor Placement
If you are using a computer, keep in mind that the desk height should allow the keyboard to sit a little below elbow level. The monitor placement should be at eye level to ensure you don’t risk strain in your neck.
Consider Your Type of Work
The important thing that could determine the appropriate desk height is the kind of work that you do. To that end, different activities will decide which desk height is appropriate including:
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Writing or Typing: A standard-height desk can work. Adjustable desks like standing desks are also applicable.
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Drafting or Drawing: You can utilize the use of a taller, adjustable desk.
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Crafting or Assembly Work: A standing desk or adjustable workbench can be applied here.
Shared Workspaces
For those that offer shared work environments, adjustable desks will work perfectly here. The reason is that you’ll have all kinds of users who have different height needs. More importantly, you should include ergonomic-friendly chairs to ensure that they take care of their seating needs (especially when they need something that will help reduce the risk of strain or repetitive injuries).
What to Know about Adjustable Desks?
An adjustable desk could be the best possible solution for a few good reasons. Ideally, this type of desk can benefit all kinds of users. In turn, you can reap these benefits including:
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Customizable Heights: Many adjustable desks offer a wide variety of height settings. On average, expect the minimum to be around 24 to 50 inches at the maximum. This is considered the range that will accommodate most users.
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Health Benefits: When balancing sitting and standing, adjustable desks will reduce the risk of health issues that are often linked to a sedentary lifestyle. You’ll worry less about back pain, obesity, and other not-so-good health issues.
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Versatility: If you are looking for a desk that will be the perfect fit for most activities like typing or drawing, chances are an adjustable desk will get the job done.
Different Types of Adjustable Desks
There are different types of adjustable desks. The average height of a desk when adjustable will still vary. However, there are different types based on operation including:
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Manual Crank Desks: This will allow you to adjust the height with a hand crank. For those on a budget, it’s a cost-effective option to consider.
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Electric Desks: This will utilize motorized controls to make the adjustment process seamless. However, these will be more expensive compared to their manual crank counterparts.
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Convertible Desk Risers: These will be used on traditional desks, which can make the switch between sitting and standing a lot easier.
Finding the right adjustable desk will ensure you can get to work on whatever tasks need to be done for the day. The thing to remember is that there are different types of desks that each come with their own upsides and downsides. As we’ve mentioned, manual crank desks will cost less than electric desks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When setting up your desk, there are common mistakes that you will need to avoid. These will include:
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Do Not Ignore Ergonomics: Make sure the desk is at the appropriate height. Anything too low or too high can lead to discomfort.
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Neglect Chair Adjustments: Please note that an ergonomic chair will be just as important as the desk itself.
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Forget about Foot Support: Foot support is just as important, whether you are sitting or standing. Consider supportive footwear and anti-fatigue mats. Both of these will be super important to have whenever you are maintaining that balance of sitting and standing during your work period.
Final Thoughts
The idea of knowing what desk height matters to you will determine the best one to use for your work activities. Don’t forget there are different types of alternatives to the standard desk, including adjustable desks that will accommodate people of different heights and needs. Choose the best adjustable desk that will allow you to maintain the best balance for sitting and standing regularly.
Are you interested in purchasing a new desk? Check out TopJob. They sell ergonomic standing desks, like the AnyDesk Fold or AnyDesk Nest, that allow you to stay comfortable while working. Plus, they are adjustable, so you can modify them to fit your personal needs. Happy shopping!
