Standing Desk Height Calculator
Calculate the correct standing desk height and how to alternate between sitting and standing.
Last updated · View algorithm, constants and default inputs (JSON)
About this calculator
Use body height, footwear thickness and a selected task profile to create a rough desk-height starting point. Individual proportions, chair, monitor and keyboard setup vary; adjust the workstation to a comfortable position rather than treating these values as ergonomic requirements.
Worked example
calculated with the default values below
Your height 70 in · Main work type Keyboard and mouse · Footwear thickness 1 in · Minutes standing per hour 30 min · Working hours per day 8 h Standing desk height 44.3 in · Standing desk height 112.4 cm · Sitting desk height for the same chair 29.7 in · Standing hours per day 4.0 h
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 = w × H + s; h_sit = 0.41H + s; w ∈ {0.605, 0.618, 0.628}
- H
- Body height (in)
- s
- Footwear (in)
- w
- Work-type factor
Height references use task-specific fixed height ratios plus entered footwear thickness; these are starting estimates, not individualized ergonomic measurements. Standing hours = work hours × standing minutes per hour ÷ 60.
Frequently asked questions
Are these heights ergonomic recommendations?
No. They are rough starting estimates based on simple height ratios and do not assess your chair, monitor, keyboard, posture or health needs. Adjust the setup to your comfort and seek qualified advice for persistent discomfort.