If you are investing in wood crafting as a career or hobby, it’s best to include a workbench in your plan. Aside from completing essential tools, it’s worth considering the height of your workbench to make woodworking easier.
Getting the height wrong can lead to discomfort and inefficiency. So, I’ve detailed the ideal workbench height based on your specific needs.
What’s the Recommended Height for a Workbench?
The recommended height for a workbench is within the range of a low height of 29-30.”
But if you’re doing more intricate stuff like dovetailing, you might want to go for a taller height, somewhere between 37-39″. Trust me, it helps a lot with the small details.
Size is not everything, but you’ll be surprised that there are perfect workbench vices, which fall within the range of 34-36.”
(For best results, check out these top-rated dovetail saws for beginners and pros!)
Why Does the Ideal Work Table Height Differ?
The ideal height of workbenches vary as there are some factors to consider, and these include the kind of work you need to execute.
Choosing the height of your workbench depends solely on the frequency of its use and the manner of tasks which you will use it for. You will also need to consider your height which will allow you comfort where you can maintain your good posture.
Importance of Using the Ideal Workbench Dimensions
As there are various tools and skills required in your woodworking career, having a functional workbench is vital. However, the characteristics of the workbench should suit your task and needs.
It is remiss to ignore the importance of the height of the workbench, especially when considering the success of your project. A well-designed workbench ensures efficient utilization of space and promotes proper body posture, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
The right dimensions enable easy access to tools and materials, minimizing time wasted on reaching and searching for items. Using an average workbench affects your work–leading to a good result.
Work Table Height Summary
It is a very important consideration to choose the appropriate height that works well for you. For your reference, the following measurements are catered for a person with an average height of 5’9” to 6.”
If you do not fall within the range, make sure to adjust accordingly.
| Workbench status | Work table height | Ideal task |
| Low | 29-30” (74-76 cm) | Applying pressure on a hand plane and hand thicknessing |
| Average | 34-36” (86-91 cm) | Combination of tasks involving the use of hand planers and detail work |
| Tall | 37-39” (97-99 cm) | Detailed work and precision designs such as detailed work and cutting joinery |
| Adjustable support (optional) | 3-4” | Provides flexibility with add on butt hinges resulting to two heights for the workbench |
Tall
A taller height workbench falls within the range of 37-39.” I personally love this height when I’m digging into detailed work like wood carving. I can stand comfortably, which is a godsend because slumping over can really do a number on your back.
In addition, a tall workbench is recommended if you’re regularly dealing with woodworking-related tools. Leaning over is a disadvantage and will lead to discomfort. You will want a workbench that allows you to rest while executing the project.
I also find a taller workbench great when I’m applying treatments or pre-sealants. You want to be able to really scrutinize your work before moving on to the next step.
On the contrary, a tall workbench height is not recommended when attempting to apply pressure on miter saws.
Average
An average workbench is within the range of 34-36.” I find myself using this height when I’m tackling a mix of tasks. It’s a great compromise, especially if, like me, you’re someone who does a little bit of everything.
Although the ideal height of workbench varies, the average size is popular among users with limited space and those who do not have room for more than one workbench. Many woodworkers find this a convenient height for any power tool and equipment.
A medium-sized workbench is considered a slightly taller workbench compared to a low workbench. The average height also affords the perfect work table when performing hand or detailed work.
Low
The height that falls within the 29-30” range is low. This height suits those who regularly use their upper body to operate power tools. Also, this is recommended when you lean over the bench with feet apart and crouched shoulders.
A low height for a workbench works well, especially if you regularly apply pressure on hand planes [1] and other similar tools. With a low height, you can use and maximize your body weight for this work.
It will also allow you to lean over projects and achieve desired results. However, a low workbench dimension is not recommended for detailed work, such as making dovetails, as it can lead to some issues.
The average height of the workbench may require a bit more pressure or may compel you to stand a bit taller. Sometimes, low is the way to go, but like anything else in woodworking, it’s all about what you’re most comfortable with and what the project calls for.
With Adjustable Legs (Optional)
You can make a workbench versatile by adding fancier adjustable legs. Consider using these movable legs to help adjust the table to your height. This adjustable feature usually remembers your recent calibration, which makes it convenient.
Standard Workbench Dimensions Depending on the Work
When organizing your workspace, it’s best to set up many essential tools for woodworking and room properties, including your workbench. It is best to complete your tools, sound insulation, heat insulation, extension cords, bench grinders, grinding wheels, and a suitable workbench size.
But ensuring the appropriate height of your workbench is crucial to optimize your tasks.
For Handwork/Light Work
When it comes to handwork or lighter tasks, I find a lower workbench does the trick. Performing tasks that deal with essential hand tools will require a top down perspective of your project at a slight angle.
The logical height for this task is approximately 30 inches. This height, close to a kid’s table height, allows weight distribution over the surface edge resulting in tractions and leverage.
For Accurate Work
For those who are sticklers for detail, a taller workbench can be a real asset.
When your work requires great attention to detail, I suggest opting for a taller height for your workbench. You will not need any leverage since you are only tasked to work out finer details and thus needs the project to be near eye level.
For More Intensive Work
For more intensive work, a low table is the way to go. You’re going to be leaning into your project, putting some muscle behind those tools. A lower table lets you use your body weight to your advantage, and I’ve found that it really makes those more strenuous tasks more manageable.
For Average Work Tables (34-36 inches)
If you do not have a specific woodworking task in mind and would like to be versatile, then a workbench between 34 to 36 inches in height is for you. It is not too tall and not too short and allows you to perform different tasks.
This is also a practical height for those who have little space. It is also considered the best value-for-money workbench among other sizes.
How To Determine the Right Work Table Dimensions for You
The tips mentioned above are a good basis for choosing the best workbench height for you. Most workbenches are available in the market. Thus, you have the option to buy an already-built workbench or choose to customize and make one.
As a craftsman, you can make a shorter workbench or taller workbenches that you can consider a perfect height. So, follow these steps with durable material to help you make your own table.
Steps
Here are some steps to help you determine the right work table dimension for you.
1. Know the Tasks You Work on the Most
Make sure to know the tasks you frequently work with to get the ideal height of the workbench that works well for you. Consider a taller level workbench if you frequently work on small projects involving a high degree of detail.
On the flip side, if you find yourself frequently relying on hand tools and brute force, a lower table would serve you better. And if you’re like me, tackling a blend of various tasks, aim for a versatile design.
2. Take Your Physical Measurements
There are a variety of methodologies to get your physical measurements. This can help you plan the workbench that suits you. Taking your physical measurements can lead to a customized workbench for your particular height.
One approach is to simply let your arms hang by your side and measure the distance from the floor to your wrist crease. That’s the number I’d use for a standard-height workbench.
Another way of taking your physical measurements is to measure the height between the floor until where your fingers reach pointing forward. This height can be used to craft a lower-sitting workbench.
Lastly, you can take physical measurements by holding your arms sideways at a 90-degree angle. You can ask a friend measure the height for you. Measure the height between the floor and where your hands are.
This measurement is used to make a tall workbench. It would imitate where your hands are once it is out of the way. When choosing the right method, add or subtract an inch or two. This can lead to the right measurement for your workbench.
3. Cast Up Adjustable Legs
If you’re a woodworker that plans on executing different woodworking tasks, then I would recommend adding adjustable legs to your workbench. Sure, they may not be as ubiquitous as your run-of-the-mill, static-legged workbenches, but their functionality is through the roof.
These movable legs will allow you to add or remove a few inches off the workbench to its ideal position for you. The legs’ versatility allows you to achieve the ideal height of the workbench. Detailed carving? No problem, crank it up. Heavy-duty sawing? Lower it down for better leverage. Honestly, it’s like having multiple workbenches in one.
4. Refer to the Work Table Height Recommendations
When making your own workbench, always refer to the work table height recommendations. You’re not strictly confined to the same height measurements but make sure to fall within the recommended range.
Always have in mind what tasks you’ll frequently be performing on this workbench. That way, you’ll be setting yourself up for success right from the get-go.
How to Calculate the Optimal Work Table Height for You
- Consider and record the thickness of the countertop
- Record the distances for the fasteners and the size of the supports
- Record the resulting height
- Consider the formula considering the person’s height and subtract 100 cm; calculations are as follows:
| Height (cm) | Height of the workbench (cm) |
| 165 | 65 |
| 170 | 70 |
| 175 | 75 |
| 180 | 80 |
| 185 | 85 |
| 190 | 90 |
| 195 | 95 |
Other Workbench Measurements to Use
Here are other measurements you need to consider when choosing or making your work bench.
Person’s height (cm) | Head measurement from crown to chin (cm) | Measurement of hand from fingertips to elbow (cm) | Workbench worktop height (vise 14 cm) | Workbench worktop height (vise 18 cm) | Workbench worktop height (vise 22 cm) |
| 165 | 21-22 | 41-42 | 87-89 | 83-85 | 76-79 |
| 170 | 21-22 | 42-43 | 93-91 | 87-89 | 83-85 |
| 175 | 22-23 | 43-44 | 94-96 | 90-92 | 86-88 |
| 180 | 22-23 | 44-45 | 98-100 | 94-96 | 90-92 |
| 185 | 22023 | 45-46 | 102-104 | 98-100 | 102-104 |
| 190 | 23-24 | 46-47 | 105-107 | 101-103 | 97-99 |
| 195 | 23-24 | 47-48 | 109-111 | 105-107 | 101-103 |
Person’s height (feet) | Head measurements from crown to chin (inches) | Measurement of the hand from the fingertips to the elbow (inches) | Workbench worktop height (vises 5.5 (inches)) | Workbench worktop height (vises7 (inches)) | Workbench worktop height (vises 8.5 (inches)) |
| 5’4” | 8-8.5 | 16-16.5 | 34-35 | 32.6-33.5 | 30-31 |
| 5’5” | 8-8.5 | 16.5-17 | 36-36.6 | 34-35 | 32.5-33.5 |
| 5’74” | 8.5-9 | 17-17.5 | 37-37.7 | 35.5-37 | 34-34 |
| 5’90” | 8.5-9 | 17.5-18 | 38.5-39.3 | 37-38 | 35-35 |
| 6’ | 8.5-9 | 18-18.5 | 40-41 | 38.5-39 | 40-41 |
| 6’2” | 9-9.5 | 18.5-19 | 41-42 | 39-40 | 38-39 |
| 6’4” | 9-9.5 | 19-19.5 | 43-44 | 41-42 | 40-41 |
Conclusion
As a professional woodworker or an everyday DIY enthusiast, it’s vital to prepare and complete woodworking tools for your workshop.
Furthermore, it is crucial to have a comfortable and supportive workbench, ideally at the right height. So, take the tips and guidelines I’ve given you to heart and find that perfect workbench height that suits your needs.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
