Desk Height Calculator
Estimate a seated desk height from your measured elbow height.
Last updated · View algorithm, constants and default inputs (JSON)
About this calculator
Measure from the floor to your elbow while seated with relaxed shoulders and forearms level. Use that measurement as a starting point for the desk and keyboard height, then adjust so your shoulders stay relaxed and wrists stay straight. This is a fit check, not a body-height formula; monitor position depends on your screen, chair and posture.
Worked example
calculated with the default values below
Seated elbow height from floor 27 in · Main work type Mostly keyboard Starting desk height 27.0 in · Starting desk height 68.6 cm · Starting keyboard height 27.0 in · Adjustment note Keep shoulders relaxed and wrists straight; adjust the chair or keyboard tray if needed
General background references
Disclaimer
These calculators give general date results. Public holidays, working-day conventions and time-zone rules are set locally and change, so confirm against the official calendar for anything legally or contractually binding.
Implementation source
This record describes the implementation used by this page. It is not independent validation. External references, when available, support only the stated formula or definition; estimates and custom rules retain their own assumptions.
Formula and variables
h_d = k H + s; h_m = 0.94H + s
- H
- Body height (in)
- k
- Elbow ratio (0.40–0.41)
- s
- Footwear (in)
- h_d
- Desk height (in)
- h_m
- Monitor height (in)
k = 0.41 keyboard, 0.40 writing, 0.405 mixed work; cm = 2.54×h_d.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the calculator ask for elbow height instead of using overall height?
People with the same height can have different seated elbow heights because chair, leg and torso proportions vary. Measure from the floor to your elbow while seated with relaxed shoulders and forearms level; treat the result as a starting point, then adjust the chair or keyboard tray for a neutral posture. OSHA describes workstation fitting as individualized and recommends elbows near keyboard height, relaxed shoulders and straight wrists.