Choose a tray that places both keyboard and mouse at a usable height when you stand, and when you sit if you alternate postures. An adjustable sit-stand arm can move the input platform independently; a workstation-specific tray relies on the workstation for height adjustment, while a wall-mounted arm needs a suitable wall. Check the full height range, mounting space and input-device fit before buying.
If you type for extended periods in both positions, check that the keyboard and mouse can reach a usable height in each. The Health and Safety Executive advises positioning the keyboard just below elbow height; a fixed pull-out shelf may not reach that position when you stand.
A crossbar, cable tray or drawer can obstruct an under-desk track, even when the desktop has enough room. Measure the mounting area and the path the tray takes when stored, as well as the space left for your knees.
A full-size keyboard, separate keypad or trackball changes how much usable surface you need. Compare your complete input setup with the tray dimensions, stated load limit and mouse-platform layout.
If the keyboard platform must move independently between sitting and standing heights, assess a sit-stand arm rather than assuming a sliding shelf will suffice. A workstation-specific accessory can provide more input space without adding independent height travel; a wall-mounted arm avoids desk-underframe mounting but needs a suitable wall.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard and mouse height | Compare the tray’s travel from its mounting point with your seated and standing desk heights. Check whether the mouse platform reaches a suitable position too. | When I switch between sitting and standing, I need both input devices within comfortable reach at each height; around 43% of consumers put usable height range first. |
| Mounting and clearance | Measure the clear mounting area, depth to obstructions and knee space. For a wall arm, check the wall construction, fixings and cable reach. | If my desk has a crossbar or crowded underside, I need a mounting method that fits without obstructing my knees; around 29% of consumers prioritise installation and clearance. |
| Input-device space | Measure the keyboard and mouse movement area, including any keypad or trackball. Compare them with usable tray dimensions, load limit and mouse-side options. | With a larger keyboard or separate pointing device, I need enough room for both without crowding the mouse; around 28% of consumers make input-device fit their primary concern. |
A tray designed chiefly to lower a keyboard for seated use may not have enough upward travel for standing typing. The Health and Safety Executive advises keeping the keyboard just below elbow height.
Measure your desk at both working heights, then compare those measurements with the selected tray’s vertical range and its stated mounting reference point.
A desk frame or cable tray can block an otherwise suitable mechanism. For example, 3M specifies a clear area 24 in wide by 23.25 in deep beneath the mounting surface for its AKT180LE.
Measure and photograph the underside, including crossbars and drawers, then check the installation requirements for the exact model.
A keyboard may fit while leaving too little room to move the mouse. The Health and Safety Executive advises keeping the mouse in line with the elbow, so the layout matters as well as the tray’s overall width.
Measure the complete input area and check the tray’s capacity, usable dimensions and available mouse-platform positions.
A tray does not resolve screen position, chair setup or the need to vary display screen equipment work. Health and Safety Executive guidance covers the workstation as a whole and calls for breaks or changes of activity.
After installation, check screen height, mouse reach and cable movement in both postures. Where workplace assessment requirements apply, ask for the changed setup to be reviewed.
These examples illustrate different mounting and adjustment approaches; their specifications apply to the named products, not every tray made by each brand.
Makes adjustable under-desk keyboard trays, including a sit-stand arm with a keyboard and mouse platform.
Offers low-profile under-desk keyboard systems with negative-tilt and left- or right-side configurations.
Makes accessories for specified WorkFit sit-stand workstations and a wall-mounted sit-stand keyboard arm.
Use your elbow height as the starting point: the Health and Safety Executive advises positioning the keyboard just below it, with relaxed shoulders. Check that the tray reaches this position at your actual standing desk height, and that the mouse remains within comfortable reach.
Yes. Check the clear mounting area, crossbars, drawers, cable trays and knee space against the exact model’s installation requirements. For instance, 3M specifies 24 in by 23.25 in of space beneath the mounting surface for its AKT180LE; other models can require different dimensions.
No. A tray helps position input devices but does not replace breaks or changes of activity. The Health and Safety Executive recommends short, frequent breaks from display screen equipment work rather than fewer long ones.
In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive says employers must assess workstations for workers who use display screen equipment daily as part of normal work for continuous periods of an hour or more. If a standing desk or keyboard tray changes your work setup, raise the changed arrangement as part of the workstation assessment.