Table of Contents
Your Ultimate Guide to Monitor Mounts
Nowadays, computer and workstation setups have become more advanced than ever. With professionals and researchers discovering more and more causes of discomfort, eye sore, and neck pain among office employees and those who sit in front of a desk for long periods of time, different manufacturers have adapted and created brand new appliances to suit our everyday needs as workers.
One solution is the computer screen mount which is designed to help the user adjust and move multiple monitors with convenience. Let’s take a look at the best monitor arms in the market.
Which is the top one?
Ergotron LX Monitor ArmThe best in our guide, the Ergotron LX has a durable and sturdy build. It's visually-appealing design makes it perfect for any workstation. | AmazonBasics Premium Single Monitor StandAffordable yet built with premium materials, the AmazonBasics stand can hold heavier monitors and has a wide range of motion. | Vivo Dual LCD LED Monitor ArmThe Vivo Monitor Arm is ideal for those who have a dual monitor setup. It's high-quality build can hold heavy monitors with ease. |
Functionality: Quality: Price: | Functionality: Quality: Price: | Functionality: Quality: Price: |
Let’s go over each one
#1: Ergotron LX Monitor Arm
A top contender when it comes to mounts, the Ergotron LX desk mount has made a name for itself with its durable materials and robust design. One of the best ergotron monitor arms in the industry, it is incredibly flexible in more ways than one. Built to last, this efficient and ergonomic accessory is sure to be a welcome addition to your workspace. If you’ve struggled with adjusting monitors to be exactly how you want them, the Ergotron LX Desk Mount can accommodate most height requirements and is easy to move from angle to angle. Weighing around 8 pounds, this arm can carry a screen of up to 34 inches.
In fact, the Ergotron LX is so durable it doesn’t budge even when the table does, and doesn’t shake when you’re running your third lap on the desk treadmill. Monitor arms don’t get much better than this — you’re getting even more than what you pay for, and this monitor arm can last you through the years.
The Ergotron LX desk monitor arm might also make taller users happy. It comes with a monitor arm “tall pole” version that enhances the height to accommodate all users. The standard size is 8” and has a wide range of motion. Another version of this monitor stand is the Ergotron LX Desk Mount LCD which is considered one of the best monitor arms from the brand and in the market itself. The Ergotron LX Desk Mount LCD Monitor Arm is likewise available on Amazon.
Pros and Cons of the Ergotron LX Monitor Arm
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Durable steel build ✔️ Aesthetically pleasing design ✔️ Flexible movement makes it easy to adjust ✔️ Can hold a max monitor size of up to 34 inches ✔️ Has a tall pole version | ✖️ Costs more than other mounts |
#2: Amazon Basics Premium Single Monitor Stand
If you’re enjoying a simpler, more minimal setup at your office, a single monitor stand is all you need. While many out there offer different functions and features, what we look at is the sturdiness and adjustability of each mount. This AmazonBasics Stand is easy to use for even a 32-inch monitor, perfect for most simple workstations, making it our runner-up in this guide.
Adjustability and wide range of motion is important, and this arm can extend, retract, tilt forward and backward, as well as rotate from landscape to portrait mode. As for its tilt capacity, it goes 70 degrees backward and 5 degrees forward, which should be more than sufficient for the user’s needs. Whatever your monitor height and position is, it should be easy to adjust with this model. It can also securely clamp onto 0.4” tables as well as 2.4” ones, so thin or thick, this mount will stay put on your desktop.
Pros and Cons of the AmazonBasics Premium Monitor Stand
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Good range of motion and smooth adjustment ✔️ Can carry up to a max monitor size of 38 inches ✔️ Can be tilted 5 degrees forward and 70 degrees back | ✖️ Can only hold 1 screen ✖️ More expensive than other arms ✖️ Limited cable management system |
#3: Vivo Dual LCD LED Monitor Arm
If you’re someone who has a job that requires two monitors or simply want to enjoy having two monitors for your gaming needs, the affordable Vivo LCD LED stand is just what you need. It doesn’t skimp on functionality either. The setup ensures both screens are secure and can be rotated 360 degrees and tilted to the optimal viewing angle for you.
For people using a sit-stand desktop, easily adjustable dual monitor arms are vital. When transitioning from a sitting position to a standing position, chances are, you’ll also have to adjust the angle of your monitor. This monitor arm is here to make that task more convenient for you. With its tilt capacity of 80 degrees forward and 90 degrees backward as well as 360-degree rotation, you’re getting full articulation for a small price. Compatibility is no problem either. Whether you have a 13-inch or 27-inch frame, this arm can carry either size with ease. It also supports a max. monitor weight of 22 lbs., which is well above the average.
This has an integrated cable management system so all your power and AV cables can be organized with this arm’s detachable cable clips. This handy cable management feature makes sure you won’t have to worry about them tangling while adjusting your monitor.
Pros and Cons of the Vivo Dual LCD LED
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ More affordable than other brands ✔️ Smooth adjustment ✔️ Comes with wire clips for easy cable management ✔️ Can support heavy monitors ✔️ Can carry up to a max monitor size of 27 inches ✔️ Comes with a VESA mount | ✖️ Doesn’t use gas springs which may make arms difficult to adjust |
#4: NB North Bayou Monitor Desk Arm
Whether you’re an avid gamer or simply want to be able to work without any discomfort in your neck and back, the NB North Bayou stand is the perfect accessory. With its gas spring system, you’re able to adjust any screen’s angle with ease. This single monitor desk mount stand is one of the most durable in the market, with high quality materials and extra stable build. With these specs, it comes as no surprise that this is a highly raved-about product with great reviews on Amazon.
The NB North Bayou Monitor Desk Mount can hold a max monitor size of up to 30 inches, as well as carry a max monitor weight of 19.8 lbs. so there’s no need to worry about whether your monitor is too big or too small. Its gas spring arms feature a -30 and +85 degree rotation range and an upright range of 10 inches or 260 mm so you can switch to any angle that suits your needs. With these incredible benefits at this price point, we say that the NB North Bayou Monitor Desk Mount is a steal.
Pros and Cons of the NB North Bayou Monitor Desk Mount
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Affordable ✔️ Great build quality ✔️ Can hold up to a max monitor size of 30 inches ✔️ Uses premium gas springs for smooth adjustment ✔️ Can hold heavier monitors | ✖️ USB cables aren’t provided ✖️ Can only carry a single monitor |
#5: HUANUO Dual Monitor Arm
Another contender for the best dual monitor arm is the HUANUO dual monitor mount. If you prefer an arm with a gas spring system, you’d be remiss not to check this one out. It is able to house both flat and curved monitors of up to 27 inches. While each stand can only hold a max monitor weight of 17.6 lbs, its durability still exceeds expectations.
You can set your monitor from landscape to portrait mode easily with this mount. Built to last, this stand includes a triangular design equipped with solid construction so your screens are safe and secure. Try using a desk treadmill or an under-desk bike with this stand, and you won’t notice any wobbling or shaking even at high-intensity workouts. That alone makes it one of the best monitor stands around.
Pros and Cons of the Huanuo Dual Monitor Arm
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Improves viewing angles ✔️ Gas spring monitor arms ✔️ Sturdy build quality ✔️ A dual monitor mount that can hold up to 27 inches | ✖️ Has a below average max monitor weight capacity |
#6: VIVO Height Adjustable Single Monitor Arm
Looking for a better, more adjustable monitor but don’t want to drop a hundred bucks right away? This VIVO stand doesn’t disappoint. At just below $30, you’re getting high quality materials and an arm that can easily adjust your computer monitor, no matter the size. Let’s go over each function of this model.
The best budget monitor arm, the VIVO monitor arm is noted for its tilt capacity. Different from your basic monitor arm, it has pneumatic springs that allow smooth height transitions, and the 360-degree rotation feature gives its users easy access to the most comfortable viewing angles. As for its forward and backward tilt, this stand can go up to +90° and -45°.
For installation, this stand has an open VESA mount that is 75×75 and 100x100mm in dimension, creating a simple setup process. Its C-clamp allows it to mount any desk up to 3.5 inches in thickness.
Pros and Cons of the VIVO Single Monitor Arm
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Budget-friendly price ✔️ Smooth adjustment ✔️ Easy installation | ✖️ Max monitor weight capacity is only 14.3 lbs |
#7: VARIDESK Full-Motion Spring Dual Monitor Arm
A great dual monitor arm can be difficult to find, especially one that can hold up larger monitors. The VARIDESK Full-Motion dual monitor mount speaks for itself. These heavy-duty monitor arms espouse a full range of motion to fit each individual user’s needs. Made with only the most premium materials in mind and constructed with the utmost care and attention to detail, this sleek Vari dual monitor arm is a premium option for those willing to spend a little more in exchange for a long-lasting appliance.
If you find yourself having to skimp on space, you’re in luck. The Vari dual monitor arm is a space-saving option, perfect for those who like having a lot of accessories sitting on top of their table. This universal desk clamp ensures that you’re able to have that water bottle in reach or as many small plants on your table as you want, and still be able to use dual monitors.
Pros and Cons of the Varidesk Full-Motion Dual Monitor Stand
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Desk-mounted arms ✔️ Can hold two monitors ✔️ Made with durable materials ✔️ Support monitors with a weight of 30 lbs. ✔️ Has a cable management system | ✖️ Pricier than others |
#8: Ergotech Freedom Arm
For those whose screens are more lightweight, the Ergotech Freedom Arm is the most durable option. While its max weight is 17 lbs (most monitors nowadays are a lot lighter), its high-quality build and sturdy material ensure that even any monitor won’t wobble when adjusting.
A clean workspace is important for productivity, which is why this arm comes with a built-in cable management system. Loose cables won’t be a problem with this arm, and you’ll be free of any unnecessary clutter while working. As for its motion capacity, the Ergotech desk-mounted monitor arm offers a great variety of movement so you’re covered at any viewing angle. Tilt your display up 90 degrees and down 45 with ease. It also comes with 180-degree panning capability and 360 degrees of rotation. Aside from this, you’re also getting a 3-year warranty in case you order a defective appliance.
Pros and Cons of the Ergotech Freedom
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Includes 3 year warranty ✔️ 90 degree tilt upwards ✔️ Saves space ✔️ Durable and steady for lightweight screens ✔️ Includes cable management system | ✖️ Cannot hold heavier computer screens |
#9: 3M Desk Mount Monitor Arm
A problem with many desk arms is the height adjustment, and this product solves just that. Without having to buy any additional accessories, you can get 18 ½ inches of height adjustability with a 7 ½ pole height. Perfect for those who need their monitors at a higher position, this 3M stand can go up with ease. It is also equipped with dual-swivel technology so each movement is swift and fluid, doesn’t make any noise, and most of all, keeps your display secure.
Another benefit of this desk clamp mount is its weight capacity. While most arms nowadays can hold only 20-25 lbs, this clamp ensures any screen of any size can sit comfortably and securely on the arm. Because most newer computer screens are built to be lightweight, many arms have also adjusted. However, if you’re using a heavier or bulkier display, this dual-swivel monitor arm is what you’re looking for.
Pros and Cons of the 3M Desk Arm
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Can hold monitors weighing up to 30 lbs. ✔️ Dual-swivel monitor arm ✔️ 19” height adjustment range | ✖️ Can only hold one display |
#10: AVLT Power Dual 35 Monitor Desk
If you’re one to use a modern, curved display, or LCD screen, this is your ultimate pick. The AVLT Power Dual is a champion when it comes to sturdiness and reliability, and it can fit multiple monitor setups: ultrawide, curved, or simply flat. It’s also heavy weight, so you won’t have to worry about a 33 lbs. display being too heavy for this desk mount. You can rotate, pan, and tilt this arm desk mount conveniently with its smooth adjustment.
Its height adjustment goes from 8.9 inches all the way up to 23 inches, perfect for tall people or people who prefer having a higher-mounted curved or flat display. Its durable build also ensures the screen stays steady without wobbling even at its maximum height. Another function is the USB and aux port designed to connect to your OS if you need to.
Pros and Cons of the AVLT Power Dual 35
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Can go up to 23 inches in height ✔️ Heavy-duty, holds up to max 33 lbs. ✔️ Comes with USB and aux port ✔️ Easy to set up | ✖️ Weak neck hinge |
#11: Ergotron HX Monitor Arm
Ergotron has established itself as a leading brand when it comes to ergonomic office products, aiming to deliver on its promise to improve how people work. Our guide already includes the Ergotron LX as the best monitor mount in the market, but here’s another Ergotron product we can’t ignore. If you’re on the lookout for a heavy-duty monitor arm, the Ergotron HX might be the one for you.
The HX is a monitor arm that’s crafted using a robust metal and is available in either a black or white finish. It’s quite hefty in the hands, allowing it to be capable of holding up an ultrawide or weighty monitor without worries. Ergotron claims that the HX monitor stand can carry an ultrawide monitor with a size of 49 inches and a whopping weight of 36.8 lbs. Aside from being able to lift such a heavy weight, moving around a monitor using the Ergotron HX is smooth and seamless.
If you have a limited workspace and need to lift a hefty monitor off your desk without worrying about it toppling over, the Ergotron HX can easily get the job done.
Pros and Cons of the Ergotron HX
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Solid and sturdy build quality ✔️ Can hold a 49-inch monitor ✔️ Supports monitors that weigh up to 36.8 lbs. ✔️ Easy to swivel and adjust | ✖️ Expensive |
What is a Monitor Mount?
Mounts are monitor arms or brackets that are meant to support a display screen, such as a computer monitor or TV. Usually, monitor arms are used for workstations and can either be attached to the wall or the desk. Monitor arms vary in design, shape, and monitor capacity, but they all have mostly the same function: to help you adjust the height and angle of your computer screen with ease, save desk space, and improve your workstation’s ergonomic capacity.
Some monitor stands only support a single monitor, while others are multi-monitor arms or dual monitor stands. Some monitor arms can be adjusted 360 degrees, and other monitor arms have more flexibility in one direction than others. There’s even a monitor arm that goes backward. At the end of the day, the right mount for you will depend on your needs.
Components of a Monitor Mount
Let’s take a look at the key components of the best monitor arms.
Clamp
A desk mount can either have a c-clamp base or a grommet mount base and sometimes both. Most desks can accommodate the former.
Arm Bracket & Pole
The pole stays put on the desk and can determine how high or low your arm bracket can be placed. The arm bracket is the part that can be adjusted, moved forward or backward, upwards or downwards. There are usually 1-2 brackets, 2 for a dual monitor stand.
VESA Holes
These are the mounting holes where your monitor can be screwed into place. Keep in mind that there are monitors that aren’t VESA mounting plate-compatible, so it is important to check first before making the purchase. Most monitor arms, if not all, have VESA holes.
Benefits of a Monitor Mount
A monitor arm should have a host of incredible benefits for your body. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Keeps your posture neutral
Once you have your neck aligned, you’ll be able to easily sit with your back and spine in a neutral position. Keeping your back and spine neutral is the prime position for your body if you want to avoid any undue stress or stiffness.
Saves desk space
Most monitors have a wide base for sturdiness, but they admittedly take up a lot of desk space that could be used for other accessories. Whether you use a wall mount or a desk mount, a desk-mounted or wall-mounted display significantly reduces the desk space occupied by monitor size. This is especially helpful for dual-monitor setups because using a monitor desk mount only takes up half the space.
Compatible with standing desks
A monitor arm would work well with standing desks because you’d naturally have to adjust your monitor height and angle when adjusting your standing desk height. If you’re sitting, you might need your monitor angled differently than when you’re standing. A monitor mount helps you make even the most minor adjustments with ease.
How to Use a Monitor Mount
Keep it at an appropriate distance
To avoid any eye strain, keep your monitor at least half a meter away from your face when sitting up straight. Dr. Alan Hedge of Cornell University recommends an arm’s length away. For exact measurements, keep your wall or desk-mounted monitor at a 51-71 cm or 20-28 in. distance.
Adjust your monitor to be at eye level
Lengthen your neck, but make sure your mounted monitor is not perpendicular to your table, but instead tilted slightly upwards. Adjusting your angle 10 to 15 degrees should do, as it will help lift your chin away from your neck. If you’re using a wall-mounted monitor arm, measure the height between your desktop and your eyes when you’re sitting down. This will help you align your desk-mounted monitor accordingly and your eyes meet at the center/middle of the monitor.
Position your chair, keyboard, and mouse appropriately
The right posture and correct screen angle are only part of a good computer setup. Once you’ve tilted your monitor at 10 to 15 degrees, you can look into your chair height, keyboard placement, mouse placement, and a good standing position if you’re using a sit-stand table.
What to Look for in a Monitor Mount
Monitor arms have varying functions and features, and the most appropriate ones will depend on what you need. Here are 5 main factors to consider when looking for a good mount:
Mount & Monitor Size
There are different monitor sizes and weights, and not every mount can accommodate them all. Is your monitor 34 inches, 32 inches, or 22 inches? Or perhaps you’re using ultrawide monitors or plan to have a dual monitor setup? These factors are important to consider when picking a good monitor arm. If you’re working with wider-inch monitors, make sure your monitor size/weight is compatible with the arm you’re eyeing.
Workstation Setup
Do you have a sit-stand table or a regular computer table? Do you prefer a wall mount? Are you using one screen or two? You can choose between using a single or dual monitor desk mount for your workspace depending on your setup. Integrated cable management options are also something you should keep an eye on when browsing through monitor stands as they can help keep your space clean and tidy.
Mount Weight
If you’re using monitor stands that clamp to the desktop, make sure to check that your table can accommodate its weight. Most monitor stands weigh around 8 lbs. to a max of 9 lbs.
Installation Process
Is the installation process of your monitor arm simple or will you be needing a few more tools? How long does it take? The best monitor arm is also the one that is most convenient to set up.
Warranty
Does your monitor arm include a 5, 6, or 10-year warranty? It’s important to know that should anything happen to your product, a warranty can ensure you’re able to get it repaired or have the help of customer service at your disposal.
Are Monitor Arms Worth It?
If you’re keen on saving desktop space and having an ergonomic workstation, then monitor arms are definitely worth it. There are plenty of products that can cater to your specific needs so you can have a more efficient and ergonomic workspace.
Do Monitor Arms Really Work?
Monitor arms are there to keep your monitor at an optimal angle. If you want to reduce eye strain and neck strain as well as be able to easily adjust your monitor, then computer monitor arms are what you need. In this sense, these products definitely work because they do what they’re supposed to do, which is to help you get a better overall posture and reduce body pain by avoiding any unnecessary neck and eye strain.
Do All Monitor Stands Fit All Monitors?
Unfortunately, not every monitor stand can support all types of monitors. There are monitor stands that can support ultrawide monitors, while there are stands that can only hold monitors up to 27 inches. When looking for a monitor stand, it’s important to know the size of your monitor so that you can be certain that it’s compatible with the monitor desk mount stand you’re considering. Remember, the best monitor arm is one that your monitor can fit into.
What Type of Monitor Arm is the Best?
The type of monitor stand depends on your priorities and what kind of workstation you have. The most popular styles of mounts are the desk clamp, grommet mount, and wall mount.
Desk mounts, or C-clamp or edge clip mounts, attach to the back edge of your desk. These are short-term and semi-permanent solutions. Grommet desk mounts are more permanent as you will need to drill a hole into your desk to attach them. On the other hand, a wall or ceiling mount is the most permanent one as you secure it to the wall behind your desk or the ceiling above.
If you own your workspace, you may want to go for a wall or ceiling mount. But if you work in an office and your workstation is a cubicle, you may want to go for a desk mount instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s no denying that the Ergotron LX is one of the best monitor arms on the market. This streamlined monitor stand can carry a variety of monitor sizes, from 20 inches to 34 inches. It has an easy height adjustment system, allowing you to work without any hassle.
If the Ergotron LX isn’t available to you, you can also consider the AmazonBasics Single Monitor Arm. The best monitor arm for those on a budget, you don’t have to worry about your screens falling as the AmazonBasics monitor desk mount stand uses premium materials. Its height adjustment system is convenient, and it features a wide range of motion as well.
Final Note
The perfect monitor will vary according to each user’s needs, and so will the best monitor arms. The only way to get the best monitor arm that’s right for you is to make sure it is compatible with your monitor itself: check if it has compatible holes, a compatible weight capacity, and monitor size. Once you’re sure you have checked the best monitor arms available, you’ll be on your way to a better, more ergonomic workstation free of aches and pains in no time.
We also have a guide on the best monitor arms in the Philippines you can check out.
Editor’s Choice
Ergotron LX Monitor Arm
Among the mounts for monitors in this guide, the Ergotron LX is the perfect cross between functional and durable. While it’s pricier than other arms for monitors, this one supports monitors of large sizes and makes height adjustment easier than ever. There is also a monitor arm tall pole version. Whether you’re using a widescreen LCD monitor or a curved screen, the Ergotron ensures that you’re able to adjust viewing angles and height with ease and flexibility. From 20 inch to 34 inch monitors, this stand can secure monitors of different sizes with ease. It’s no wonder the Ergotron LX is hailed as one of the best monitor arms today.