The calculator works in centimeters internally and converts at the end: 1 in = 2.54 cm.
- ElbowHeight is measured, or estimated as 0.62 × StandingHeight.
- RecommendedStandDesk = ElbowHeight + MatThickness + ShoeSole − KeyboardThickness
- LiftNeeded = RecommendedStandDesk − SittingDeskHeight
- StandingMinutes = WorkHours × 60 × (StandingRatio ÷ 100)
These are practical guidelines. Fine-tune by comfort, tool height, and the task.
- Select your preferred units and enter your sitting desk height.
- Enter elbow height for best accuracy, or enter your height.
- Add mat thickness and shoe sole height if you use them.
- Enter keyboard thickness to keep forearms level at the keys.
- Set workday hours and standing ratio to get a simple schedule.
- Press Submit to view results, then export to CSV or PDF.
| Scenario | Height (cm) | Elbow (cm) | Sit Desk (cm) | Mat (cm) | Shoe (cm) | Keyboard (cm) | Recommended Stand (cm) | Lift Needed (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seed-starting planner | 165 | Auto | 74 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 103.3 | 29.3 |
| Bench labeling session | 175 | 110 | 76 | 0 | 1.5 | 2.5 | 109 | 33 |
| Potting notes and inventory | 182 | Auto | 78 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 113.8 | 35.8 |
Why desk height conversion matters for garden planning
Garden workflows often mix computer time with bench tasks like labeling flats, mapping beds, and tracking seed inventory. When your standing surface is too low, shoulders round and wrists extend; when too high, shoulders elevate and fatigue rises. Converting your sit and stand heights using body measures helps keep forearms near level and reduces strain during longer sessions.
Key measurements that drive accurate recommendations
The calculator prioritizes elbow height because it anchors a neutral arm position at the keyboard and mouse. If elbow height is unavailable, it estimates from standing height to provide a usable starting point. Mat thickness and shoe sole height are added because they raise your effective floor height. Keyboard thickness is subtracted to keep hand position consistent at the key surface, not the desktop edge.
Interpreting lift range for converters and risers
Lift range is the difference between your current sitting desk height and the recommended standing height. For a desktop converter, treat lift range as the minimum vertical travel you need. If your lift range is positive but small, a fixed riser may be enough. If it is larger, choose an adjustable unit that exceeds the required travel by a safety margin for fine tuning.
Using stand and sit minutes to protect focus
Standing ratio converts work hours into minutes so you can plan realistic posture changes. Many people start near 30 to 50 percent standing time and adjust weekly. The suggested block length helps you alternate without interrupting focused tasks like spreadsheet updates, seed ordering, or photo logging. Pair standing blocks with brief mobility breaks to limit stiffness.
Quality checks before you commit to a setup
After you set the recommended height, verify that elbows rest slightly open, wrists stay straight, and shoulders remain relaxed. If you write notes or use a tablet for garden charts, test both input modes. Small changes of 1 to 2 centimeters can improve comfort. Recheck measurements when changing shoes, adding a thicker mat, or swapping keyboards.
1) Do I need elbow height for accurate results?
Elbow height gives the best target because it reflects your natural arm position. If you cannot measure it, the estimator uses your height to provide a reliable starting point.
2) Why does mat thickness change the recommended height?
A mat raises your feet and effectively shortens the distance from your elbows to the desk. Adding mat thickness keeps the desktop aligned to your arms while standing.
3) How should I enter shoe sole height?
Use the average extra height from the sole to the floor, not the heel-to-toe drop. If you switch shoes often, enter the pair you wear most during work sessions.
4) What does lift needed tell me when buying a converter?
Lift needed is the vertical travel your converter must provide above your sitting desk. Choose a converter with more travel than required so you can fine-tune comfort.
5) Why subtract keyboard thickness?
Your hands rest on the keys, not the desktop surface. Subtracting thickness helps keep forearms level at the key height, reducing wrist extension during typing.
6) Can I use this for potting benches too?
Yes, as a guideline. For heavier tasks, you may prefer a slightly lower surface for leverage. Test the recommended height, then adjust by small increments for comfort.