Short answer
A standing desk should be adjusted so that:
- your elbows are at roughly a 90-degree angle
- the top of the screen is at eye level
- your shoulders are relaxed
- your wrists are kept in a neutral position
The exact height depends on your height and the equipment you use.
The same ergonomic principles apply whether you use a standing desk or a desk riser (standing desk converter) placed on top of an existing table.
Correct height when sitting
When working while seated, you should:
- keep your feet flat on the floor
- have your knees at roughly 90 degrees
- keep your elbows close to your body
- keep your forearms parallel to the table
- keep the screen at or just below eye level
If the work surface is too high, your shoulders may rise, which can create unnecessary strain in your neck and back.
Ergonomic guidelines show that the screen and keyboard should be positioned so the body can work in a neutral position. 👉 Read the ergonomics guide Cornell University.
Correct height when standing
When working standing up, you should:
- keep the screen at eye level
- have your elbows at about 90 degrees
- keep your shoulders relaxed
- keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet
- keep your body in a neutral position
You should not have to lean forward or lift your shoulders to reach the keyboard.
A proper height makes it easier to work comfortably for longer periods.
Workplace guidelines show that the correct height reduces strain on the neck, shoulders, and back.
👉 See OSHA recommendations on workstation ergonomics.
Difference between a standing desk and a desk riser
A standing desk adjusts the entire work surface up and down.
A desk riser — also called a desk converter or standing desk converter — is placed on top of an existing table and raises the work surface to standing height.
The ergonomic guidelines are the same:
- screen at eye level
- elbows at about 90 degrees
- neutral posture
The main difference lies in flexibility and how easily the work surface can be adapted to different environments.
Desk risers are often used when you want to create a sit-stand workstation without replacing your desk.
👉 Read more: What is a desk riser
Laptop vs external monitor
The height you need is also affected by the equipment you use.
Laptop:
- the screen is attached to the keyboard
- can make it harder to achieve the ideal height
- can be combined with an external keyboard
External monitor:
- makes it easier to position the screen at the right level
- offers more flexibility in posture
- often works better for longer work sessions
If you use an external screen, a larger desk riser can provide better stability and more workspace.
Why adjustable height is important
Because we switch between sitting and standing during the day, the height needs to be easy to adjust.
An adjustable solution makes it possible to:
- switch positions several times a day
- find the right ergonomic level
- adapt the work surface to different tasks
Small adjustments can make a big difference over time.
How a desk riser can help
A desk riser makes it possible to create a sit-stand workstation without replacing your desk.
When height adjustment is easy:
- the feature is used more often
- switching between positions becomes more natural
- the working posture can be adapted to the situation
The most important thing is not to stand all day — it is to be able to choose.
👉 Explore our desk risers designed for easy switching between sitting and standing.
Summary
The right height for a standing desk or a desk riser means that:
- your elbows are about 90 degrees
- the screen is at eye level
- your shoulders are relaxed
- the position feels natural
The most important factor is being able to adjust the height easily and switch between sitting and standing during the day.
Frequently asked questions
Should the screen be at eye level?
Yes, the top of the screen should be at or just below eye level to reduce strain on the neck.
How high should the keyboard be?
The keyboard should be positioned so that your elbows are at about a 90-degree angle.
Does the same height work for a desk riser?
Yes, the same ergonomic principles apply to both standing desks and desk risers.
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