Greatest monitor arms 2025: Price range, premium, single- and dual-arm fashions

[ad_1]

Probably the greatest upgrades you can also make to your own home workplace is the addition of a monitor arm. A superb-quality arm not solely frees up usable house in your desk’s floor, it permits extra methods to maneuver and place your show/s for optimum consolation and ergonomics. And a monitor arm makes your workplace setup look actually cool.

The one catch is the worth. Most monitor arms value shopping for will price near $200, and heavy-duty arms able to holding two giant shows might be priced even larger. The excellent news is {that a} good-quality monitor arm is more likely to final you for a really very long time. That’s why it’s vital to make the correct alternative while you buy a monitor arm.

That will help you with that, we’ve examined a number of standard monitor arms, for each single- and dual-monitor setups. Beneath you’ll discover our curated checklist of suggestions, with detailed explanations of what options and qualities make them stand out. We even have some good funds suggestions. Beneath our picks, we level out some arms that we aren’t so eager on — to offer a degree of comparability.

Ergotron LX Professional – Greatest monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $209

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

$209

$230.08

The Ergotron LX Professional is a sensible, efficient, easy-to-use monitor arm. Ergotron achieves this ease-of-install with intelligent, but easy, engineering.

The LX Professional’s clamp mechanism, which secures the monitor to a desk, takes the additional step of offering a snug handhold that makes it simple to work the clamp with out instruments. The arm’s two sections, in the meantime, merely slip into place. Ergotron additionally supplies thumb screws for attaching the arm’s VESA mount to the again of your monitor.

Relying in your monitor, it's possible you'll want to make use of the included hex wrench to tighten the elements. In any other case, set up doesn’t require instruments.

The arm’s desk clamp mechanism is huge, which is vital. Clamps with a small floor focus extra drive in your desk and trigger injury if over-tightened. A wider clamp higher distributes the drive. Meaning the LX Professional is much less more likely to injury weaker desks (although warning when tightening the clamp is beneficial).

Fortuitously, the arm’s ease of set up doesn’t result in useful downsides. The arm can assist displays as much as 34 inches diagonally that weigh as much as 22 kilos. The arm additionally lifts as much as 13 inches, tilts as much as 85 levels, and might swivel and rotate to a full 360 levels. Cables are routed by way of channels within the arm and secured by sturdy removable cladding. Ergotron supplies a 10-year guarantee.

The LX Professional even fixes our gripes about its predecessor, the Ergotron LX. The LX Professional’s base is extra compact, the white colorway now has a color-coordinated VESA mount, and the brand new design is extra enticing. The one downgrade in comparison with the outdated Ergotron LX is a decrease most weight (the LX might deal with as much as 25 kilos). However that’s unlikely to matter, as 32-inch and 34-inch displays often weigh 15 kilos or much less.

The LX Professional’s $209 MSRP is sufficient to make buyers assume twice, nevertheless it’s nice worth for cash. The arm’s total construct high quality feels aggressive with dearer monitor arms, such because the Humanscale M2.1.

That makes the Ergotron LX Professional a simple suggestion. It’s easy to arrange, seems good, works properly in day-to-day use, but stays inexpensive. We already appreciated the Ergotron LX, however the LX Professional is a good improve.

MSI MAG MT201 – Greatest funds monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: 69.99

The MSI MAG MT201 is an affordable monitor arm that’s rated to assist 49-inch screens that weight as much as 44 kilos. That’s excessive sufficient that it’s pointless; even my 42-inch LG B4 tv weighs solely 25 kilos. The MAG MT201 has a spring (moderately than fuel or gas-spring hybrid) pressure system that proved able to dealing with the 32-inch displays I had available.

Establishing the MAG MT201 is a bit sophisticated. The stand’s meeting requires a number of steps and tightening quite a few screws. Instruments are offered, however it would take about 15 to twenty minutes to complete. That is one thing that separates the MAG MT201R from dearer arms, just like the top-rated Ergotron LX Professional. The steps required to assemble every monitor arm are comparable, however the MT201 requires extra screws, and a few screws in awkward positions.

Adjusting the monitor is easier. The arm itself felt sturdy and swivels left and proper, in addition to up and down, with out bother. You’ll need an Allen-head screwdriver helpful, although, as a number of changes together with the monitor arm neck and top pressure require it. The arm features a quick-release VESA mount, which means you may detach a monitor from it by eradicating a single thumb-screw. It’s a pleasant characteristic to have on a funds arm.

Apart from a outstanding MSI brand, the monitor arm seems modern, skilled, and reserved, and will work equally properly for a house workplace or a gaming setup. Construct high quality isn’t superb, with plastic cladding over metallic framing, nevertheless it’s a looker for a funds monitor arm. It’s higher than the commercial look of the Monoprice monitor arm (our former funds decide) and extra distinctive than funds arms from Huanuo and Vivo. The MAG MT201 additionally delivers an enormous acquire in high quality over arms within the $25 to $50 bracket, most of that are much less adjustable and much more tough to arrange.

Value works within the MSI MAG MT201’s favor. It carries an MSRP of $99.99, nevertheless it’s usually on Amazon for round $60 to $80, with an all-time low value of $49.99. That makes the MSI MAG MT201 really feel just like the minimal viable monitor arm. Shopping for something cheaper doesn’t make sense, as you’ll sacrifice an excessive amount of in high quality and design.

Huanuo HNSS6 Single Monitor Arm – Greatest monitor arm below $50

Value When Reviewed: 39.99

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

$44.99

The Huanuo HNSS6 Single Monitor Arm is definitely our go-to suggestion for buyers trying to purchase the least costly monitor arm that may nonetheless fulfill its job.

The arm is available in two items: The decrease portion swivels whereas the higher portion permits for top, tilt, and rotation changes. A fuel spring supplies pressure to maintain displays aloft, which is an improve from the clips and screws utilized by the least costly arms. Nonetheless, it’s value noting that fuel springs can lose their efficiency over time. These options are typical for the worth: Most opponents are comparable in design and use a fuel cylinder.

What makes the Huanuo a winner is its total high quality and ease of set up. Setup required set up of simply three screws (and adjustment to some extra). The clamp used to mount the arm to the desk was intuitive in comparison with rivals just like the MountUp Single Monitor Arm, because the spacing of the clamp is adjustable with out eradicating and re-installing screws to safe it. The arm claims to carry 32-inch shows as much as 20 kilos, which is sufficient to maintain most displays. We examined it with panels as much as 32 inches weighing as much as 12 kilos, and it supported these with ease.

One notable draw back is cable administration. The plastic covers offered are finicky and received’t maintain many wires, so if you wish to add USB cables along with a video connection and energy, you’re in all probability out of luck. To be truthful, although, the identical is true of most cheap arms.

The Huanuo wasn’t as simple to arrange or alter because the Ergotron LX, our favourite total decide, and it’s not as sturdy because the Monoprice Single Monitor Arm, which usually sells for $60. Nonetheless, the Huanuo will get the job completed.

Herman Miller Flo – Greatest upscale monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $295.00

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

Need a monitor arm that will get the job completed and appears good doing it? The Herman Miller Flo is for you.

The Flo’s design units it other than the pack. Herman Miller ditches the angular, industrial design of many opponents for a easy, pure look. Whereas clearly designed for a company workplace, it additionally suits in with a house workplace setup, the place its pleasant, approachable look helps it mix in with its environment. The Flo is backed by a 12-year guarantee and presents 24/7 customer support.

It’s simple to arrange and use. The monitor’s clamp works equally to different monitor arms I examined, nevertheless it’s extra refined and requires fewer screws (a grommet can be obtainable). The VESA mount can be glorious, offering a easy clip design that’s safe and might be simply pre-mounted to a monitor for easy set up. The best way this mount works accommodates displays which have a barely recessed mount place, which can trigger issues for different monitor arms.

The monitor’s vary of adjustment isn’t a lot completely different from different high-end monitor arms. It presents 13.3 inches of vertical adjustment, 80 levels of tilt, and 360 levels of swivel and rotation. That’s basically equivalent to the cheaper Ergotron LX. The Flo’s operation is smoother, nevertheless: I discovered I might alter a monitor’s top with a mere nudge.

Surprisingly, the Flo has a listed weight restrict of 20 kilos and recommends use with displays weighing at the very least 7 kilos. Most displays match inside this vary, however some heavier fashions received’t be appropriate with the Flo.

Herman Miller lists the Flo at $295, which is rather a lot to ask for a single-monitor arm. The Ergotron LX presents comparable options at a a lot cheaper price. Nonetheless, the Flo is a smoother, extra interesting monitor arm, and definitely worth the improve if you need kind together with your operate.

Ergotron HX – Greatest heavy-duty monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $345.00

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

$339.99

$344.99

$349

It’s pure, given the one slight distinction in title, to assume the Ergotron HX is merely an uprated model of the Ergotron LX. That’s not the case. That is a wholly completely different monitor arm which pairs its elevated capability with improved construct high quality and a extra skilled look.

First, let’s speak weight. The Ergotron HX is rated to carry displays that weigh as much as 42 kilos and display sizes as much as 49 inches. That’s a very excessive weight restrict—I haven’t reviewed a single monitor in 2023 that exceeds it. I hooked up each a 32-inch widescreen and 38-inch ultrawide monitor, which weighed roughly 15 and 20 kilos, respectively, and the HX simply dealt with each.

Using plastic is minimal and reserved for small parts of cladding that seem used just for cable routing. The arm’s shifting elements embody bigger, sturdier mechanisms, and felt extraordinarily easy in my use. Ergotron backs the arm with a 10-year guarantee.

The displays vary of adjustment is a bit restricted in comparison with the LX. It presents 11.5 inches of top, 75 levels of tilt, 180 levels of swivel, and 360 levels of rotation. Nonetheless, a considerably extra restricted top adjustment is typical on this class as a result of measurement of displays these stands are anticipated to hold.

The monitor arm’s spectacular design additionally supplies a extra sturdy look. This might be a con for some, nevertheless, because the arm can appear a bit…a lot in a house workplace setup. It’s an costly arm, as properly. Count on to pay about $350.

The Ergotron HX is an apparent alternative if you wish to mount an ultrawide, super-ultrawide, or giant format widescreen monitor in your desk.

Humanscale M2.1 with M/Join – Greatest monitor arm w/ built-in dock

Value When Reviewed: $356 (dock begins at a further $214)

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

The Humanscale M2.1 with M/Join laptop computer docking station is a lovely, sturdy, and fashionable monitor arm that may increase your laptop computer’s connectivity with out taking over extra house in your desktop.

Humanscale’s entry-level M2.1 doesn’t embody a laptop computer dock, nevertheless it’s designed to accommodate the M/Join 3, which nestles snuggly into the bottom of the arm. Most dwelling workplace buyers will probably select the M/Join 3 USB Knowledge Hub, which at present retails for $253 (on high of the M2.1’s base value of $356). The hub provides three USB-C ports and two USB-A ports. If you would like much more ports, the $600 M/Join 3 Professional Dock provides two extra USB-A ports, two extra USB-C, Ethernet, and two DisplayPort ports.

The M/Join 3’s added connectivity is a superb solution to increase the ports on a laptop computer. Its central location makes the ports simple to entry and retains them firmly positioned in a set place in your desk (versus freestanding hubs and adapters, which are likely to get shoved round, or off, a desk). It’s additionally an excellent different to a USB-C monitor. We like USB-C displays, however packing connectivity into the monitor could make it tough to entry some ports, as most are positioned on the rear of the show.

Connectivity apart, the Humanscale M2.1 is a sturdy, if standard, monitor arm. It could possibly deal with displays between 5 and 15 kilos, which is sufficient to assist the overwhelming majority of widescreen displays below 32 inches in measurement. It additionally has a “sensible cease” characteristic, which lets customers customise the quantity of rotation the arm permits, and easy-to-use fast launch joints which are helpful when disassembling or shifting the arm. The arm isn’t as easy in operation because the Herman Miller Flo, nevertheless it stays simple sufficient to regulate.

Ergotron LX Twin Monitor Arm – Greatest twin monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $356.41

Two displays are at all times higher than one, and the identical goes for monitor arms. It’s no shock, then, that Ergotron’s LX Aspect-by-Aspect ranks as our greatest twin monitor arm. The Ergotron LX Aspect-by-Aspect pairs two LX monitor arms collectively on one mount. The look, really feel, and specs of every arm are near its standalone sibling.

Monitor measurement is one exception: Whereas the usual LX is rated for displays as much as 34 inches, the Aspect-by-Aspect’s arm is simply rated for displays as much as 27 inches. The monitor arms aren’t lengthy sufficient to suit two 32-inch or 34-inch displays side-by-side. Vertical preparations are additionally supported, although provided that one of many two displays is small (lower than 23 inches diagonal).

Feel and look is in any other case just like the usual Ergotron LX, and that’s why the twin monitor arm additionally earns a suggestion. The twin-monitor arm supplies the identical profitable steadiness of construct high quality, adjustability, and easy operation, and it’s backed by the identical 10-year guarantee. Pricing is a bit larger at $330, which is a slight financial savings in comparison with shopping for two LX arms individually.

Workstream by Monoprice Twin Monitor Arm – Greatest funds twin monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $99.99

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

$132.88

$138

The identical logic that applies to our favourite twin monitor arm additionally to the funds mannequin, giving Monoprice’s Workstream Twin Monitor Arm a transparent path to victory.

In actual fact, the twin arm’s pricing is much more spectacular. The Workstream Twin Monitor is 4 occasions cheaper than the Ergotron LX Aspect-by-Aspect. I’m a bit shocked by the standard Monoprice can provide at a $100 value level. Ergotron’s different is extra enticing and simpler to make use of, however is it 4 occasions higher? That’s a tricky name.

The Workstream’s downsides are equivalent to plain mannequin. Construct high quality is spectacular for the worth, however the arm is tough to arrange and never as easy in operation. I’m additionally uncertain the arm is able to dealing with two 20-pound displays, as its spec sheets declare. Fortuitously, 27-inch displays (the most important this arm can deal with side-by-side) often weigh lower than 10 kilos, so weight capability shouldn’t be a difficulty.

Huanuo HNDS12 – Greatest mid-range twin monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $139.99

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

$139.99

The Huanuo HNDS12 represents a center floor for buyers who need an improve in high quality however must respect their funds.

Every monitor arm is sort of all metallic with solely a small piece of plastic to offer cable routing. The arm additionally has fuel springs able to lifting as much as 26 kilos of weight, which is sufficient to deal with 32-inch widescreen and 34-inch ultrawide displays.

There’s one uncommon characteristic: a USB hub. This consists of two USB ports which are positioned on the entrance of the arm base. Every of those might want to plug in to your pc, which could be an issue when you've got a laptop computer with just some ports, nevertheless it’s a useful bonus.

The Huanuo HNDS12, just like the HNDS6 (beneath), is a bit fiddly to arrange. It has two clamps that must be adjusted and roughly a dozen screws that must be put in. The fuel springs additionally require a little bit of adjustment to cut back the drive present, at the very least when used with a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor.

Nonetheless, the HNDS12 is an efficient decide at its common retail value of $140, which frequently drops as little as $110 when on sale. It seems enticing and presents loads of drive for holding bigger displays.

Clearspace Uni-2 – Greatest upscale twin monitor arm

Value When Reviewed: $599

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

The Clearspace Uni-2’s design is a bit completely different from most opponents. It locations two particular person arms on a single pole. Every arm can alter for top, swivel, and tilt, and every monitor mounts to an “impartial slider” which may transfer proper or left, making it simpler to tune the position of every monitor relative to the opposite. In comparison with the Humanscale M8.1, I discovered the Uni-2 simpler to regulate. Nonetheless, the Humanscale M8.1’s beefy crossbar is more likely to show extra secure in case you’re mounting giant displays.

I feel the Clearspace Uni-2 seems nice, and that’s vital. Opponents from Humanscale and Herman Miller additionally look luxurious however have a extra company or “govt’s workplace” vibe. The Uni-2’s softer look feels extra applicable for a house workplace. Clearspace additionally supplies black, silver, and white colorways, and each part of every colorway is molded within the promised colour (which isn’t true of most opponents). Clearspace additionally throws in refined touches, like soft-touch inserts on the aspect of every monitor arm. That’s the form of design a house workplace consumer will respect.

Clearspace additionally seems to separate itself with connectivity. The Uni-2 comes customary Sensible Hub that gives a single USB-A and USB-C port. That’s a small edge over opponents, which frequently promote the dock as an improve. Homeowners can enhance the fundamental hub with the non-obligatory SmartDock (pictured), which expands connectivity to incorporate extra USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet. Sadly, I can’t suggest it: The SmartDock is priced at $650 but lacks assist for options I’d anticipate at that value, like 4K 60Hz video and a pair of.5Gbps Ethernet.

Whereas the non-obligatory SmartDock is a miss, the arm is a winner. The Clearspace Uni-2 is dear, however the value might be justified in case you’re choosy about the feel and appear of your own home workplace house. Clearspace additionally presents a single-monitor and triple-monitor arm: Whereas I didn’t check them, I anticipate they’d provide comparable perks.

Monitor arms that we don’t suggest

MSI MPG MT201R

<img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="MSI MPG MT201R" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/MSI-MPG-MT201R.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"/> Greatest Costs Right this moment:

The MSI MPG MT201R is a heavy-duty monitor arm that’s rated to assist 49-inch screens that weigh as much as 44 kilos. It helps that weight with a fuel spring mount. Whereas that may sound like rather a lot, you shouldn’t assume it makes the arm any extra sturdy than one other. Most displays, even giant ones, weigh lower than 25 kilos, anyway.

Unboxing and establishing the MPG MT201R can take some time, because the stand is available in quite a few elements linked by quite a few screws. The instruments are offered, and the included meeting information is evident sufficient, however dearer monitor arms often ship with fewer elements. The monitor features a VESA fast launch characteristic that makes it simple to connect or detach a monitor by eradicating a single thumb screw.

The C-Clamp plate is broad and the bottom of the stand can be giant. Collectively, these make for a really safe match that's much less more likely to injury a desk, as a result of the load of the clamp’s drive is unfold out extra evenly.

MSI’s branding is outstanding, and I don’t assume that’s a plus. The monitor arm will solely look “proper” with an MSI MPG monitor. Even then, I don’t assume MSI’s design throughout its product line is coherent sufficient to justify shopping for an MSI arm to go together with an MSI monitor. On the plus aspect, the arm has RGB lighting which runs by way of the arm itself. The lighting is powered by USB-A. It doesn’t sync with different gadgets, nevertheless it seems good.

Pricing is a bit awkward. The MSI MPG MT201R has an MSRP of $129.99 and infrequently sells at that value, although it’s often decreased to $99.99. That’s truthful, however except for the RGB lighting, I don’t assume the MPG MT201R provides a lot worth over a cheaper arm just like the MSI MAG MT201 or the Workstream by Monoprice monitor arm. I’m additionally not bought on the design, which appears meant to attraction solely to MSI super-fans.

MSI MPG MT161R

<img decoding="async" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" class="product-chart-item__image" alt="MSI MPG MT161R" src="https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/MSI-MPG-MT161R.jpg?quality=50&strip=all" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"/> Greatest Costs Right this moment:

The MSI MPG MT161R is an inexpensive single monitor arm constructed for players who need one thing with some aptitude. It has a spring mechanism that may assist screens as much as 45 inches that weigh as much as about 35 kilos.

Design is what units the MPG MT161R aside. It makes use of plastic cladding to create a dramatic, mechanical look with sharp edges and a little bit of crimson trim. The centerpiece, nevertheless, is undoubtedly the monitor arm’s base. It makes use of RGB lighting and reflective materials to create a enjoyable hall-of-mirrors impact. The lighting is powered by USB-A.

The intensive use of plastic cladding over the arm’s metallic elements is to not the arm’s credit score, nevertheless. It feels spindly and cheap. To be truthful, it’s an inexpensive arm with an MSRP of $109.99—however I feel a value round $75 could be extra consistent with the standard of the arm. Whereas the RGB lighting is enjoyable, it’s restricted to the bottom of the arm and doesn’t sync with different gadgets.

Establishing the arm is a bit finicky. The arm ships in quite a few items and requires set up of quite a few screws. Instruments are included, and the meeting handbook is sufficient, nevertheless it’s annoying. The monitor features a quick-release VESA mount which permits a monitor to be eliminated or reattached utilizing a thumbscrew.

Whereas I respect MSI’s try to design an arm that appears completely different, it’s onerous to suggest the end result. Many cheaper arms are at the very least as useful and the design, although distinctive, doesn’t appear value a lot of a premium. I can solely suggest it in case you fancy the arm’s look.

MountUp MU0004 Single Monitor Arm

Value When Reviewed: $39.99

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

The MountUp MU0004 Single Monitor Arm looks like an much more inexpensive different to the Huanuo HNSS6. They give the impression of being comparable in pictures, and every has a fuel spring. Nonetheless, the MountUp’s cheaper price — often $5 to $10 lower than the Huanuo — comes with some compromises.

The MountUp arm was harder to put in. That is as a result of clamp, which has a two-piece design that requires screws be eliminated and re-installed when adjusting the clamp’s measurement. Adjustment of the clamp was additionally a bit harder, as turning the knob required extra drive, and the clamp lacks a rubberized pad to stop it from marking the underside of your desk. We additionally didn’t just like the MountUp’s match and end. It had a rough, matte really feel that appeared extra industrial than the Huanuo, and miles behind the Ergotron LX.

It’s not all unhealthy information. MonutUp says the monitor arm can assist 32-inch shows as much as 17 kilos. That’s moderately heavy for a contemporary monitor, and it simply dealt with a 32-inch show weighing 12 kilos. Whereas inferior to the Huanuo, the MonutUp might work in case you don’t thoughts twiddling with just a few extra screws throughout set up and might overlooks is lackluster construct high quality.

Nonetheless, it’s onerous to justifying paying $30 for the MonutUp in case you can bug the Huanuo for $40 (and even $50). A monitor arm can final for years, so spending just a few further bucks for a greater expertise is sensible.

Vivo STAND-V002 Twin Monitor Stand

Value When Reviewed: $28.97

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

On the time we purchased it for testing, the Vivo STAND-V002 was ranked because the second best-selling monitor arm on Amazon. That’s a disgrace, as a result of it’s simply the worst arm we’ve examined to date.

To be truthful, it’s additionally the least costly. The STAND-V002 is usually bought beneath $30. That’s lower than many top-selling single monitor arms! Vivo achieves that by reducing the arm’s options to the bone.

Adjustability is minimal, a lot in order that Vivo (principally) advertises the STAND-V002 as a “desk mount” or “stand” as a substitute of an arm. It has a clamp, a pole, and two jointed arms that connect to the pole at a single level. You may alter the displays for top, however solely collectively: One can’t be larger than the opposite. The arms, in the meantime, have joints that enable swivel and adjustment side-to-side, in addition to tilt up and down. You may’t alter these on-the-fly, although, as a result of the whole lot is tensioned by screws that have to be loosened with a software, adjusted, after which re-tightened to maintain the displays in place.

Construct high quality is poor. Vivo claims the arms can maintain two displays as much as 22 kilos every, however we observed a slight deflection downward even when attaching a 27-inch show weighing 10 kilos. Cable administration is offered by plastic clips which are barely sufficient to the duty and have a tendency to fall off when jostled. The clamp is small and lacks a rubber pad, so it might mark softer woods and supplies.

We suppose the Vivo might work in case you plan to mount a pair 24-inch displays and don’t care about adjusting them as soon as in place, nevertheless it’s in any other case not value $30. It’s low cost, certain — however in our expertise, monitor arms this low cost are likely to collapse after a pair years (or much less).

Humanscale M8.1

Value When Reviewed: $545

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

Humanscale is synonymous with high-end workplace furnishings: The Freedom chair is one thing of an icon in govt places of work throughout the globe. However Humanscale’s high-end workplace {hardware} is at occasions a clumsy match for a house workplace, because the M8.1 demonstrates.

The Humanscale M8.1 seems just like the M2.1, nevertheless it’s upgraded to deal with displays between 6 and 28 kilos (virtually double the M2.1 in our checklist above). That’s sufficient to deal with practically any monitor obtainable in the present day, together with giant ultrawides just like the Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW. The arm can even deal with two displays of the suitable mixed weight and presents a “crossbar” to assist them each on a single arm.

That’s good, and helpful, however pricing is an impediment. The arm begins at $545, however the crossbar (required to make use of two displays) ups the worth to $686. The M/Join 3 laptop computer dock can be obtainable to the M8.1 however, in fact, provides much more to the worth. That’s a bit onerous to simply accept when the Ergotron HX, which helps displays as much as 42 kilos, begins at $350, or $585 for the dual-monitor crossbar model. Ergotron’s different feels as sturdy, helps even bigger and heavier shows, and is cheaper.

The Humanscale M8.1 has options you received’t discover on the Ergotron, similar to an non-obligatory laptop computer dock and customizable arm rotation, and it’s a high-quality choice if value is not any impediment. Typically, although, the M8.1’s value can be onerous to justify.

Huanuo HNDS6

Value When Reviewed: $67.99

Greatest Costs Right this moment:

Huanuo’s HNDS6 is a funds dual-monitor arm that’s standard on Amazon (actually, it’s listed because the best-seller in Laptop Monitor Arms). It supplies an inexpensive stage of high quality at a low value however fails to unseat the Workspace by Monoprice Twin Monitor Arm on our checklist.

We’ll start with the positives, which, to be clear, outweigh the issues. The Huanuo HNDS6 rigorously walks the worth tightrope to ship a good dual-monitor arm at a typical value of $60 (which may dip beneath $50 on sale). The arm’s metallic building feels inflexible and appears sturdy.

Every arm is rated to carry between 4.4 and 14.3 kilos. That’s not rather a lot: The Workstream by Monoprice arm is rated as much as 20 kilos. Nonetheless, it’s sufficient to deal with an enormous majority of 24- and 27-inch displays, and the monitor arms offered loads of elevate in our testing.

We’re not a fan of the arm’s set up. It has two clamps as a substitute of 1 unified clamp, which is unusual, as a result of the bottom of the monitor arm is one strong piece. There are roughly a dozen screws to put in. And the included cable routing can show onerous to tighten as soon as a number of cables are held throughout the routing.

The Huanuo HNDS6 is a good dual-monitor arm for the worth and worthwhile on a reduction (it was as soon as bought for simply $38). Usually, although, we expect the Monoprice Workstream Twin Monitor Arm supplies extra for the same value.

What to search for in a monitor arm

Buying a monitor arm is a bit completely different from buying most dwelling workplace gear. A monitor arm, in contrast to a monitor, is a hefty, sturdy piece of apparatus that by no means actually goes out of date. It should additionally assist the precise features you need out of the field, since upgrades and customization are typically restricted.

If you happen to’re nonetheless on the fence about whether or not a monitor arm is definitely worth the cash and the time it takes to arrange, learn our article that solutions why a monitor arm is most undoubtedly value it.

Adjustability and vary of movement

The vary of adjustability and movement a monitor arm can provide is a vital however usually missed characteristic. A monitor arm ought to alter for top, tilt, swivel, and pivot—and it ought to accomplish that with out instruments.

All of the monitor arms we suggest meet this customary, however some variations stay. Just some monitor arms present 360 levels of swivel, which means the neck of the monitor arm might be rotated to any place. That’s helpful in case your desk is in the course of your room since you need to use the monitor from numerous positions.

Most cheap monitor arms ditch adjustability and stick to easy pressure mechanisms which are secured by a screw. It’s cheap however fixes the monitor’s place in place as soon as it’s adjusted. We suggest avoiding mounts that use this technique.

Ease of set up and adjustment

Not one of the monitor arms examined have been tough to put in, however the distinction between funds and premium fashions was clear. Price range fashions require extra screws to put in, and the default pressure of the arm’s adjustment mechanism is much less more likely to be appropriate out-of-the-box.

The benefit of adjustment varies vastly, too. All of the monitor arms we surveyed require an Allen wrench to regulate pressure (which is critical if the arm appears too stiff or unfastened), however some have been way more tough than others. The Herman Miller Flo felt easy and easy, whereas the Workstream by Monoprice required severe torque.

Cable administration

Correct cable administration is vital in case you worth a clear, clutter-free desk.

That is one facet of design that didn’t enhance with pricing. The Herman Miller Flo’s cable administration was primary, whereas the Workstream by Monoprice hid cables properly. This did include a trade-off, although, because the Flo’s appeared least more likely to trigger cables to bind whereas shifting the monitor.

Whereas cable administration is helpful, not one of the monitor arms I examined can deal with the total complement of cables that could be hooked up to a high-end USB-C monitor (just like the Dell U3223QE). That is a side of monitor arm design that producers might enhance.

Most supported measurement and weight

It’s vital to purchase a monitor arm that may deal with the monitor you personal.

This received’t be a serious concern in case you personal a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor, as most such displays weigh 10 kilos or much less. With that mentioned, it’s clever to double-check the monitor’s weight earlier than shopping for a monitor arm. Keep in mind the monitor’s weight can exclude its stand. Bigger 32-inch, 34-inch, and 49-inch displays are harder to deal with and should require an improve to a “heavy responsibility” monitor arm.

Monitor measurement limits must be revered as properly. It could be attainable to connect a 40-inch monitor to an arm meant for a 32-inch monitor. The 40-inch monitor could even come throughout the arm’s weight restrict. A bigger monitor will distribute weight otherwise, nevertheless, which might trigger an arm’s pressure mechanism to fail.

How we check monitor arms

Each monitor arm we suggest was personally examined first-hand at a PC World contributor’s dwelling or the PC World workplace. We study the standard, ease of set up, and vary of adjustment of every arm to confirm it meets the producer’s claims. The displays we use to check arms can fluctuate over time, however usually embody at the very least one 27-inch and one 32-inch widescreen monitor. Monitor arms rated for “heavy responsibility” use have been examined with at the very least one monitor that weighs 20 kilos or extra.

FAQ 1. What's the finest monitor arm?

The very best single monitor arm is the Ergotron LX Professional. It’s simple to arrange, seems enticing, works properly in day-to-day use, and, at just a bit over $200, stays inexpensive.

2. What's the finest low cost monitor arm?

The very best funds monitor arm is the MSI MAG MT201. It could possibly accommodate screens as much as 49 inches and 44 kilos. There's a little little bit of meeting required, however the crucial instruments are equipped. However as soon as completed, adjusting the arm is straightforward. It additionally seems very good for a funds monitor arm. MSRP is $99.99, nevertheless it’s frequent to see the MT201 for $70 or much less.

3. Is a monitor arm value it?

Whether or not a monitor arm is definitely worth the value is subjective, however we imagine our beneficial monitor arms are value making the funding. A monitor arm is less complicated to make use of than a stand, permits a wider vary of adjustment, and retains your desk away from litter. They’re additionally sturdy—there’s an excellent probability you’ll change a monitor earlier than the monitor arm.

4. Are monitor arms appropriate with my monitor?

Almost all displays, and practically all monitor arms, use the VESA mounting customary. The 100x100mm bolt sample is by far the commonest, although 75x75mm is usually used in its place. All of the monitor arms we suggest assist each bolt patterns.

Unsure that your monitor helps VESA? Examine the rear of the monitor. The VESA mount might be discovered within the heart of the monitor, and the bolt sample might be verified with a ruler or tape measure. That is probably beneath the neck of your monitor’s stand when you've got one hooked up.

It’s attainable to mount a monitor that lacks a VESA mount, however you’ll must buy a VESA adapter. It’s a big, X-shaped gadget that clamps to the rear of the monitor.

5. Are monitor arms appropriate with my desk?

Most monitor arms provide two mounting choices: clamp and gromet.

A clamp mount is the commonest for dwelling workplace use. A U-shaped clamp suits over an fringe of your desk. A screw mechanism is used to safe it. Most clamps are adjusted by hand and match a variety of desks. It’s vital to double-check a monitor arm’s specs in case your desk is greater than an inch thick, as some clamp mounts are too small to work with a thick desk floor. The clamp additionally requires an edge that’s freed from obstructions on each the highest and backside of the desk.

Grommet mounts insert into the round cut-outs discovered on many desks constructed and bought for company places of work. A grommet mount can be a type of clamp, however measurement of the mechanism is completely different, and the mount attaches the monitor to the inside of the desk as a substitute of an exterior edge.

Almost all monitor arms ship with a clamp and grommet mount, however grommet mounts are much less frequent. It’s clever to double-check {that a} grommet mount is supported if that’s how you propose to mount the monitor arm.

6. Will a monitor arm injury my desk?

It’s attainable {that a} monitor arm’s clamp mount, if used, will trigger minor injury to your desk. It might scratch the desk’s floor when mounted or eliminated, and over-torquing the clamp may trigger a dent on some softer desks, similar to these which use a veneer over particleboard. A glass desk can even show troublesome—check with the desk’s producer to verify it’s secure to make use of a monitor arm.

7. Do monitor arms wobble?

A top quality monitor arm will tame minimal monitor wobble, although some may come by way of if the arm is mounted to a skinny, mild desk. Be sure to mount the monitor arm to a safe floor and alter the arm’s pressure to a stage appropriate for the monitor you’ve mounted.

8. Ought to I purchase a $25 monitor arm on Amazon?

A monitor arm’s price ticket can intimidate funds buyers. Most funds displays promote for $200 or much less. Spending one other $150 to $300 for a monitor arm can appear onerous to justify.

Nonetheless, we encourage buyers to keep away from low cost monitor arms discovered on Amazon and different retailers. The least costly monitor arms lack a dynamic pressure mechanism, like a fuel piston or spring. A couple of arms within the $35 to $50 vary use a fuel piston, nevertheless it’s usually a wimpy instance barely ample for holding a 27-inch monitor.

Cheap monitor arms additionally lean extra closely on plastic. That’s not essentially an issue out-of-the-box, however plastic tends to turn out to be brittle over time, which can scale back the lifespan of a monitor arm.