What is the ideal office height in France?

Generally, the ideal average height of a desk ranges between 65 and 74 cm depending on the individual's height:

• 60 to 65 cm for individuals up to 1m65 tall,
• 65 to 74 cm for those between 1m65 and 1m75,
• and 75 to 90 cm for individuals between 1m75 and 2m.

However, the reality can sometimes be more complex, and these figures may vary depending on different factors. Deskeo will explain in detail how to choose the height of your desk.

Why is desk height crucial?

Far from being a detail, the height of a desk is a crucial element to consider when choosing your desk because it determines how you will posture yourself to work. For example, more and more companies are turning to office layout specialists to take care of these kinds of details.

Indeed, a desk that is too high or too low will force you to adopt a bad posture that could cause:

• numerous musculoskeletal disorders such as neck pain, back pain, lower back pain, shoulder, arm, and wrist pain,
• eye strain if the screen is not positioned correctly,
• pain in the back and neck.

To avoid these discomforts, it is imperative to choose a desk whose height allows you to adopt a healthy working position:

• straight back,
• relaxed shoulders,
• elbows bent at 90°.

What are the different desk heights that exist?

As you may have understood, finding a desk that fits you is essential to adopt a good working position. That's why not all desk heights will necessarily suit you.

Fortunately, there are many options to find a desk at the right height, whether through standardized dimensions or solutions that allow you to customize the height of the furniture according to your specific needs and work habits.

What are the standard desk heights?

Standard desk heights generally range from 60 to 90 cm. More precisely, heights range from:

• 60 cm to 65 cm: for shorter people, measuring up to about 1m65. This range is suitable for the majority of children and adolescents.
• 65 cm to 74 cm: for average-height people, between 1m65 and 1m75. This is the most common standard height and suitable for most adults.
• 75 cm to 90 cm: for taller people, between 1m75 and 2m. These taller desks are suitable for individuals with long legs.

But, as you know, we are not all the same, and sometimes the standards are not at all adapted to our morphology. If this is your case, don't panic, there are solutions to adapt the height of a desk to the size of its user.

Customizing desk height according to individual size

Although standard measurements are useful guidelines, everyone's unique morphology often requires more precise adjustments. Below is a table with recommended heights based on different sizes:

How to adjust desk height?

There are various ways to precisely adjust the height of your desk according to your needs. Adjustable electric desks are very practical, but it is also possible to use ingenious devices to adapt the height of a standard desk without making significant expenses.

The adjustable electric desk solution

The electric height-adjustable desk is ideal for easily and quickly changing positions.

Often equipped with buttons or a remote control, it allows you to vary the height of the desktop effortlessly using an electric jack system. This type of desk is therefore particularly recommended for easily alternating between sitting and standing positions throughout the workday and easily changing posture.

Devices to adjust the height of a standard desk

Several economical options allow you to modify the height of a fixed standard desk:

• use of adjustable feet,
• replacement with feet of different lengths,
• addition of extensions or stable blocks under the existing feet,
• purchase of an adjustable ergonomic chair and addition of a footrest to raise your legs.

These accessible solutions offer a height adjustment of a few centimeters to adjust your furniture at a lower cost. However, they do not offer the same flexibility as a motorized desk.

As you can see, when it comes to desk heights, there is a wide choice. So, how do you choose the right one? Let's see.

Choosing your desk according to your size: some tips

Choosing the desk that fits your size is not very complicated. You just need to consider several elements:

• Desk height: it should allow you to keep your arms horizontal, elbows bent at 90° when typing on the keyboard, and knees at 90° as well when your feet are on the ground.
• Desktop depth: between 60 and 80 cm to have enough space in front of you.
• Desktop length: minimum 120 cm to comfortably accommodate a screen, keyboard, and other accessories.
• Legroom: make sure you have enough space to stretch your legs under the desk.
• Height adjustment: check if the desk has height adjustment solutions if you need great versatility (for example, if you often change posture or if the desk is intended for a growing child).

And to be really sure that your choice will be the right one, you will also need to make a few small checks and adjustments:

• Measure your height to determine the approximate necessary height.
• Try the desk in-store to verify that the posture is comfortable.
• Make sure your feet are flat on the ground and your knees are at 90°.
• Ensure that your elbows can rest on the desk with a 90° angle.
• Ensure that the screen is at eye level.
• Choose an adjustable desk chair.
• Don't hesitate to add a footrest if needed for more comfort.

By following these few tips and considering your measurements, you will then have all the necessary elements to find the ideal desk for you!

Ultimately, what would be the right height for a desk? Our recommendations

In summary, the ideal height of a desk is generally between 65 and 74 cm. However, these measurements are not always true and may vary somewhat depending on each individual.

The ideal height of your desk depends on several factors:

• your height,
• your body proportions,
• the type of work performed.

The goal is to adopt an ergonomic posture with a straight back, relaxed shoulders, elbows bent at 90°, and wrists in a neutral position.

For the majority of adults, the standard height between 72 and 75 cm is suitable. But don't hesitate to adjust it more precisely for better ergonomics.

If you are unsure about the necessary desk height or if you have variable work habits, it is best to opt for an adjustable electric desk. This type of furniture is ideal for easily adjusting the height according to your needs throughout the day.