Office Desk Size Guide for Better Health and Productivity

An office desk is where we spend our entire work days. Therefore, it is essential to understand how your choice of a desk can work for or against you. We believe that knowing your office desk size is just as important as knowing your shoe size. Buying a desk that is too small or too big can hamper productivity and cause posture problems. So, how do you determine the ideal size of your office desk when there are desks made in all shapes and sizes? 

Here is a short guide on office desk sizes and what you should look for while investing in one for yourself or your employees.

What is the standard size of an office desk? 

Every desk is measured in terms of height, depth and width. These measuring points collectively provide an office desk size and can help you make the best decision while choosing the best office desk per your requirements.

• Height of the desk: The height of a desk is measured from the base of the desk to the top of the desk. A standard office desk is around 28 inches in height. This height is perfect for an adult with an average height between 5’5” and 5’10”, as they will be able to sit comfortably without hunching down. A standard desk height of 28-30 inches will also ensure your legs aren’t cramped and that your knees have enough space to move freely. If you are above 5’10”, height-adjustable office desks with a desk height above 30 inches are the best option for you. 

• Width of the desk: The width of a desk, also known as the length of the desk, is measured from right to left. The minimum width should be around 25 inches if you need your desk to accommodate a computer monitor. Most office furniture companies provide standard desks in dimensions 48, 60 and 72 inches. A width of 48 inches or 60 inches can easily fit a laptop, a separate keyboard and mouse, a notebook and even a small desk lamp. 

• Depth of the desk: The depth of a desk is measured from the back to the front, where you sit. A standard desk will have a depth ranging between 24 and 36 inches. Similar to the width of the desk, the depth will also depend on how much space you need.

What is the minimum size for an office desk?

If you work from home with little room to work with, you might be wondering what the minimum size of an office desk is for you to work comfortably. The minimum size for a freestanding office desk is 28 inches in height, 20 inches in width and 18 inches in depth. Anything lesser than this will limit your movement and force you into working in an awkward posture. If a small office desk is what you need, make sure to search for a suitable office chair for a small space, too. 

What is the desk size for two monitors?

If you work with two monitors, you could require a desk that can support the monitors and common office supplies. Ideally, your monitors should be placed beside each other and be tilted at a slight angle. Assuming that your monitor is 24 inches wide, you should have a desk with a width of 50 to 55 inches and a depth big enough to fit your keyboard and mouse. Bear in mind that ultra-wide monitors will need more real estate in comparison with 24” monitors. You can also consider using monitor arms to make it a convenient experience for you. Our Leap Dual Monitor Arms can hold up to 8kg per arm, accommodate screen sizes of 27” and come with a 5-year manufacturer-protected warranty!

What is the best size for an L-shaped office desk?

An L-shaped desk or a corner office desk is one of the most practical office desk shapes you can opt for, mainly if you have limited space. L-shaped desks maximise space in the room, promote good posture and ensure everything is within arm’s reach. The average width of L-desks with unequal sides measures 6O to 72 inches for the long side and 48 to 58 inches for the shorter side. The best height for a corner desk is 30 inches, similar to a standard one. 

We understand different offices have different needs. Codex Ireland caters to all furniture requirements, whether you need desks with extra storage, modular office desking or sit-stand desks. Our range of office furniture can be used in a corporate setting or adapted to create a professional work set-up in a home office.

Check out our desking range here: Office Desks Ireland.