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What Size Standing Desk Do I Need?
What Size Standing Desk Do I Need? A Complete Guide to Finding the Right Fit
Standing desks aren’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you're setting up a home office or redesigning your workspace, the size of your desk plays a big role in how comfortable and productive you’ll be.
Choosing the right standing desk size means balancing space, posture, and function without turning your workday into a game of Tetris. Let’s break it down.
Why Choosing the Right Standing Desk Size Matters
Comfort, Posture, and Productivity Benefits
A desk that fits you well does more than just hold your monitor. It supports healthy posture, keeps your arms at the right height, and helps you focus.
If your screen is too close, you strain your eyes. Too far, and you’re leaning forward. The right size creates a flow that supports your body and your brain. As Tips For Using A Standing Desk explains, even the perfect desk height can fall flat without a surface that suits your workflow.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Desk Size
One common mistake? Only measuring your room, not your actual work setup. People often forget to account for dual monitors, a drawing tablet, or a chunky laptop dock.
Others pick a size too small, thinking they’ll save space. But a cramped desk can create clutter and discomfort fast. If you're still unsure about what suits your setup, What To Look For in a Standing Desk offers a clear checklist to guide your decision.
Standard Standing Desk Dimensions Explained
Popular Width and Depth Options (e.g. 100cm, 140cm, 180cm)
Most standing desks come in widths ranging from 100 - 180cm. We also offer 80cm, and 90cm options for those who have limited space and 2M options for those wanting an extra large desk. We can also supply a completley custom sized standing desk to meet your needs exactly. A 100cm sit stand desk is ideal for tight spaces and minimal setups - think laptop, mouse, and maybe a small monitor.
A 140cm desk gives you room for dual monitors or spreading out papers. If you’re a multitasker or like a clean separation between tasks, go for 160cm or larger.
Depth matters too. A standard 70 or 80cm depth allows you to keep screens an arm’s length away, with space for a keyboard tray or wrist rest.
Desk Height Range and Adjustability Considerations
Most electric sit-stand desks adjust from around 65 to 125cm in height. That works for users from about 5’0” to 6’6”.
The key is making sure your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when typing, and your screen sits at ((or just below) eye level. Bonus tip: Test a few height settings before committing. How to Use a Standing Desk Like a Pro dives deeper into setting up height levels and positioning everything correctly.
How to Choose the Right Standing Desk Size for You
Measuring Your Space and Room Layout
Start with the basics: measure the wall, window, or nook where your desk will go. Don’t forget the space behind the desk for a chair and standing room.
Avoid placing a desk where it blocks walkways, heating vents, or light switches. A great desk isn’t so great if you trip over it every morning.
Matching Desk Size to Work Habits and Equipment
Think about how you actually work. Do you use two monitors and a laptop? Do you write by hand or sketch often?
Make a list of your essentials and measure the footprint they need. That’s your true minimum desk width, not just what fits in the room.
Design Your Own Desk is a great guide if you want to customise your setup, not just dimensions.
Ideal Desk Size by User Height and Monitor Setup
If you’re tall and use large monitors, go for more width and depth to keep things comfortable. Smaller users can get away with more compact desks, as long as the screen distance still works.
Try this: sit (or stand) where your desk will go and hold your arms out to mimic typing. Is there enough width to feel relaxed?
Compact vs Full-Size Standing Desks
Pros and Cons of Small Desks (100cm Wide or Less)
Compact desks shine in small apartments or shared spaces. They’re easier to move, cost less, and fit into corners well.
But if your workflow involves multiple tools, a small surface may get cluttered quickly. You might end up adding extra shelves or stands to compensate.
When a Larger Desk Makes More Sense
If you use multiple screens, a larger desk gives you better ergonomics. You won’t feel boxed in and you’ll have room to work and breathe.
It’s also future-proof. As your setup grows, a bigger desk grows with you. Many users find larger standing desks to be a long-term investment in comfort and productivity.
Extra Considerations: Accessories, Mobility, and Future Use
Cable Management and Workspace Add-ons
Cable clutter is the enemy of a good desk setup. If you’re planning on using a cable tray or power strip, make sure the underside of your desk supports attachments.
Extras like monitor arms, standing mats, and keyboard trays all need space too - think vertically and horizontally.
Planning for Dual Monitors or Adjustable Arms
If you use monitor arms, allow extra width so the monitors can swing or tilt without bumping into shelves or walls.
Measure from one side of your monitor to the other with arms extended and compare it to your desk width. It sounds small, but those few centimetres make all the difference.
Should You Choose a Mobile or Fixed Desk?
If you need flexibility, a desk on wheels can be a game changer. Move it to catch better light or reconfigure your space.
Fixed desks, however, tend to be sturdier and can support heavier equipment. Think about your priorities before choosing.
Final Thoughts: Find the Standing Desk That Fits You Best
A standing desk should support your body and your workflow, not the other way around. The right-size desk feels intuitive and inviting.
Take your time to measure, test, and plan. Whether you go compact or spacious, the goal is the same: a desk that works as hard as you do.
Still unsure? Start with a 160cm x 80cm model - that size fits most people and setups comfortably.
Let your desk work for you, not against you.
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