Desk and Keyboard Height: Find Your Right Setup (OSHA)

Desk height is really keyboard height. Get your elbows and wrists right first, then make the desk, chair and screen fit around them.

Step 1: Set the chair

Sit with feet flat on the floor or a footrest, thighs about level and your back supported. Our home office setup guide covers the full neutral posture.

Step 2: Find elbow height

Let your arms hang, then bend the elbows. OSHA says elbows should stay close to the body, bent between 90 and 120 degrees, and about level with the keyboard. Shoulders stay relaxed.

Step 3: Match the keyboard

• Wrists should not bend up, down or to either side.
• Place the keyboard directly in front of you, close enough that your elbows stay at your sides.
• OSHA says not to use the keyboard feet if they bend your wrists more.
• The work surface should generally be no more than 2 in thick so your thighs fit under it.

Step 4: Check leg room

OSHA says leg clearance under the desk should generally be 20 to 28 in high. Keep the space under the desk clear of boxes and computer cases.

If the desk will not move

• Too low: raise it on stable risers.
• Too high: raise the chair and add a footrest, or fit a keyboard tray that adjusts in height and tilt.
• Best fix: a height-adjustable desk. Compare the UPLIFT V2, FlexiSpot E7 and Branch Duo.

Still bending your wrists sideways? A split board may help. See our ergonomic keyboard roundup.