Desk Height Calculator

The most reliable method is to stand (or sit) naturally, bend your elbows to a 90-degree angle, and measure from the floor to your elbow. For a sitting desk, this measurement gives roughly the right desk surface height. For a standing desk, your elbow height while standing is the key reference point. Our calculator applies these ergonomic formulas automatically based on your total height.

At 5 ft 5 in, the recommended sitting desk height is approximately 68–70 cm (27–27.5 in), and the chair height should be around 42–44 cm (16.5–17.5 in). For a standing desk at this height, the ideal surface is around 100–105 cm (39–41 in). These values can vary slightly based on your proportions — torso-to-leg ratio matters too.

For someone 5'7" (170 cm), a standing desk should be set between 100–107 cm (39–42 in) high. Your elbows should be at or just above the desk surface when your arms hang naturally at your sides. Always keep your wrists flat and shoulders relaxed when typing.

Height-adjustable (sit-stand) desks are widely recommended by ergonomics experts. They let you alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, which reduces the health risks associated with prolonged sitting — including back pain, poor posture, and reduced circulation. If you spend 6+ hours a day at a desk, a sit-stand desk is a worthwhile long-term investment.

The best approach is to alternate between both. Sitting for extended periods can cause lower back pain and poor posture, while standing all day puts stress on your legs and joints. Ergonomics experts generally suggest following a 1:1 or 2:1 sit-to-stand ratio — for example, 30 minutes sitting followed by 15–30 minutes standing — and adjusting based on your personal comfort.

Standard office desks are typically 73–76 cm (29–30 in) tall — a measurement suited to people around 5'10" to 6'. Standard chair heights range from 42–54 cm (16.5–21 in). Because most people aren't 6 feet tall, many users need chair height adjustments, footrests, or monitor risers to achieve a truly ergonomic setup.

The top edge of your monitor should be at or just below eye level, with the screen tilted slightly upward (10–20 degrees). This prevents you from craning your neck up or down. Typically, the monitor top should sit around 100–115 cm from the floor for average-height adults, and the screen should be roughly 50–70 cm (20–28 in) from your eyes.

If your desk is fixed and too high, raise your chair and use a footrest to keep your feet flat. If the desk is too low, use monitor risers and a desk riser pad. For keyboard and mouse, wrist rests can help. If possible, investing in an adjustable desk is the most flexible long-term solution for proper ergonomics.