Whether you’re buying a new desk, rearranging your home office, or fitting a desk into a different room, knowing how to measure a desk correctly is key to a smooth setup. Focus on three dimensions: height, depth, and width.
Follow these easy steps, including a few personal tips to help you picture it better and measure accurately, so you can find the desk that’s a perfect fit for your space.
Tools You’ll Need
| Tape measure | Use the tape measure to get accurate measurements for height, depth, and width. |
| Notepad and pen | The notepad is for jotting down your measurements and notes. |
| Level (optional) | A level can help you ensure that your desk is even, especially if it’s adjustable. |
Step 1: Measure Desk Height
Some people may confuse desk height with depth, but these measurements are different. Desk height is simply the distance from the floor to the top of the desk’s surface.
How to Measure Desk Height
- Place the tape measure on the floor.
- Extend it up to the top edge of the desk to measure the height.
Here’s why desk height matters:
- Comfort: The right desk height keeps you sitting comfortably, with no need to stoop.
- Posture: Sitting at the wrong height can lead to back strain and poor posture over time. I compare it to wearing shoes a size too small — it doesn’t seem like a big deal at first, but you’ll feel it by the end of the day.
Keep in mind:
Choose a desk height that works for you. Desks are typically around 28 to 30 inches in height, suitable for most people between 5 feet and 6.5 feet tall.
At 5’1”, I found that a standard desk was just about right for me. But if you’re taller, you’ll need a higher desk to avoid stooping. You can also consider adjustable desks if the standard desk isn’t right for you.
Step 2: Measure Desk Depth
Desk depth shows how much room you have from front to back on the desk’s surface.
Desk depths usually fall between 24 and 36 inches. Measuring depth accurately helps you plan out what will fit — like monitors, keyboards, or notebooks — without making the desk feel crowded.
How to Measure Desk Depth
- Start at the front edge of the desk.
- Extend the measuring tape straight back to the rear edge and make sure it stays aligned for an accurate measurement.
My Tip: If you’re planning to add under-desk storage, make sure to measure the depth carefully. I once tried to squeeze a file cabinet under a desk that was too shallow, and it stuck out like a sore thumb, making the space feel cramped.
Step 3: Measure Desk Width
Desk width tells you how long the desk is from left to right. This measurement is also known as the length (L).
Standard desks usually measure between 48 and 72 inches in width. However, other types of desks, like executive desks, can have width of up to 90 inches.
How to Measure Desk Width
- Place the measuring tape across the front edge of the desk.
- Measure from one end to the other to get the width.
My Tip: If you spend long hours at your desk or handle projects that require extra room, the width is something you’ll want to prioritize in the measurements. As a writer, I spend most of my time on my laptop, but I still like to have a huge notebook nearby to jot down ideas. A bigger desk gives me space for both, without everything feeling piled up.
Additional Tips for Measuring a Desk
- Include overhangs or shelves: If your desk has any shelves, overhangs, or extended edges, make sure to include these in your measurements. They can change how well the desk fits against a wall or in a specific spot.
- Check the clearance: If you’re putting the desk in a smaller area, measure the space around it too. You’ll want enough room to move your chair and reach any storage without feeling cramped.
- For irregular shapes: If your desk has unusual shapes or angles, break it down into smaller rectangles and measure each one. This method also works for L-shaped desks.
My Tip: Once you have your measurements, visualize how your desk will fit in your space. I’ve done this myself by using masking tape to outline the desk’s dimensions on my floor. It really helped me see exactly how the desk would fit in my room and make sure there’s enough space around it.
FAQ
How Do I Measure a Standing Desk to Fit my Space?
To measure a standing desk, check the height, depth, and width. Focus especially on the height. Ensure the desk can adjust between 28 and 48 inches for comfortable sitting or standing.
Consider the following:
- The standing desk height should be set so your elbows are at a 90-degree angle, keeping your forearms level with the desktop.
- The height should also allow your hands to hover gently above the keyboard, with wrists straight and relaxed to avoid strain.
What Should I Measure for an L-Shaped Desk?
When measuring an L-shaped desk, focus on two key dimensions: the lengths of each side and the depth. Here’s how to break it down:
- Left-hand side length: This is the distance from the back corner of the desk straight to the back edge of the left side.
- Right-hand side length: This is the distance from the back corner to the back edge of the right side.
- Depth: This measures how far the desk extends from where you sit to the back edge.
Measure accurately to ensure the desk fits perfectly in your space.
You’re Ready to Find the Perfect Desk
Congratulations on getting the hang of measuring your desk! You’re one step closer to creating your ideal workspace. By knowing how to measure a desk’s height, depth, and width, you can make sure the desk you’ll choose is comfortable, functional, and just right for your needs.
Read more:
- How to Choose the Best Desk Dimensions for Your Home Office
- 15 Types of Desks to Consider for Your Home Office
Main Image Credit: Volodymyr / Adobe Stock Free / License
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