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 body height and the equipment you use.
The same ergonomic principles apply whether you use a sit-stand desk or a desk riser (standing desk converter) placed on top of an existing desk.
The right height when sitting
When you work 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 desk
- keep the screen at or just below eye level
If the work surface is too high, your shoulders may lift, which can create unnecessary strain on 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 ergonomic guide Cornell University.
The right height when standing
When working standing up, you should:
- keep the screen at eye level
- keep your elbows at about 90 degrees
- keep your shoulders relaxed
- have your weight evenly distributed on both feet
- keep your body in a neutral position
You should not need to lean forward or raise your shoulders to reach the keyboard.
The correct height makes it easier to work comfortably for longer periods.
Workplace guidelines show that the right height reduces strain on the neck, shoulders, and back.
See OSHA recommendations on workstation ergonomics.
Difference between sit-stand desks and 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 desk and raises the work surface to standing height.
The ergonomic guidelines are the same:
- the screen at eye level
- elbows at about 90 degrees
- neutral posture
The difference lies mainly 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 workspace without changing desks.
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 optimal height
- can be combined with an external keyboard
External monitor:
- makes it easier to place the screen at the right level
- gives more flexibility in working posture
- often works better for longer work sessions
If you use an external monitor, a larger desk riser can provide better stability and more workspace.
Why adjustable height matters
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 function 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 — but to be able to choose.
Explore our desk risers designed for easy switching between sitting and standing.
Summary
The right height for a sit-stand desk or a desk riser means that:
- your elbows are at 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 desk riser?
Yes, the same ergonomic principles apply to both standing desks and desk risers.
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