What is the correct desk height for me?

Your ideal desk height places your forearms parallel to the floor when seated with feet flat. This is approximately 42% of your standing height. For an average UK adult (1750mm tall), this is about 735mm. Standard UK office desks are 720-740mm.

How deep should a computer desk be?

A computer desk should be at least 600mm deep, ideally 700mm. This provides enough space for a monitor at arm length (500-750mm from your eyes) plus keyboard and mouse space. Deeper desks (800mm+) are better for dual-monitor setups.

How wide should a desk be for two monitors?

For two 27-inch monitors side by side, allow at least 1600mm of desk width. Two 24-inch monitors fit comfortably on around 1400mm. Add 200mm if you want space for speakers or desk accessories on either side.

What is the correct standing desk height?

Standing desk height should place your elbows at approximately 90 degrees when typing, which is your standing elbow height — about 62-63% of your standing height. For someone 1750mm tall, this is approximately 1100mm (within the recommended 103-112cm range). Many standing desks are adjustable between sitting and standing heights.

How much legroom does a desk need?

A desk should provide at least 600mm of knee clearance depth and 650mm of clearance height between the floor and the underside of the desk. Width of legroom space should be at least 500mm. Add a keyboard tray if the desk is too high rather than raising your chair.

WoodCalcs

Ergonomic Desk Calculator — Height & Dimensions

Calculate ergonomic desk height and dimensions based on user measurements for comfortable working.

Desk TypeWriting, computer/office, sit-stand or drafting — sets the working height and depth

Your Height

Your standing body height, measured without shoes (mm)

Number of Monitors

Monitor Size (diagonal)

How We Calculate This

This calculator uses anthropometric proportions to determine ergonomic desk dimensions based on your height.

Key calculations

Seated desk height = User height x 0.42 (seated elbow height)

Standing desk height = User height x 0.63 (standing elbow height)

Recommended seat height = User height x 0.25 (approximate popliteal height)

Monitor distance = arm's length (500-750mm) — measured from your eyes to the screen. Viewing distance is set by your reach and the top third of the screen sitting at eye level, not by the screen diagonal; larger screens simply need to sit toward the back of that range.

Desk width recommendations are based on the number of monitors, plus workspace for keyboard, mouse, and accessories. Depth ensures adequate monitor distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify measurements and material quantities before cutting or purchasing.