Workbench height calculator
The standard "36-inch bench" is wrong for most people. The right height depends on your body and what you do at the bench — hand-tool planing wants lower than power-tool sanding. This calculator picks a height (or two) based on your dimensions and primary task.
Calculator
The "elbow height" rule
Stand relaxed at the bench with your arms hanging. The top of the bench should be roughly at wrist height when your upper arm is vertical and forearm horizontal. That's about 4″ below the elbow for most adults. The calculator uses your elbow height as the baseline and adjusts from there.
Why hand-tool benches are lower
Hand-tool planing uses downward force from your body weight. A higher bench lifts you off the workpiece; a lower bench lets you push down with your shoulders. Traditional English and Japanese benches are 32–34″ — lower than the typical 36–38″ "hobby" bench.
Power-tool work is the opposite: the tool pushes the workpiece, and you want your hands just above tool height. A higher bench is comfortable; a lower bench has you leaning over.
The two-bench solution
Many serious woodworkers build two benches: a low assembly bench for hand-tool work, and a higher outfeed bench for power-tool work. The calculator gives both numbers; you decide whether to build one or two.
Limitations
- Assumes average proportions. If you have unusually long or short arms, elbow height is more accurate than height-based estimation.
- Doesn't account for back problems or physical limitations.
- Doesn't model a sit-stand bench — those need their own calculator.
- Doesn't predict fatigue on long tasks; take breaks regardless of bench height.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just build a 36″ bench and call it done?
36″ works for a 5′10″ person doing power-tool work. Everyone else is making compromises. Build to your elbow height + task adjustment, not to a standard.
What about a Moxon vise?
A Moxon vise mounts to the top of the bench and rises 4–8″. If you use one, build your bench 4–8″ lower than the calculator recommends for hand-tool work; the vise brings the workpiece up to your elbow height.
Why does my back hurt after planing?
Either the bench is too high (you're reaching down) or too low (you're hunched over). Adjust the bench height by 1–2″ and try again. If pain persists, look at your technique — leaning over a bench is often about pushing with shoulders, not back.