Laptop Stand Buying Guide

Laptop stands most often come as an afterthought when you’re setting up your home office. But having this accessory can be a game-changer for home workers who spend several hours working on their laptop computers. At first glance, laptop stands may not seem that much different from each other in terms of design. But manufacturers have come up with ergonomic and high-quality models that are worth paying attention to. You can get the best value for your money and find the perfect stand for your needs if you know what to look for. 

Weight

Laptop stands vary in weight, and lighter models may not always be the sturdiest. You’d want to strike a good balance between the weight and the material and build of the stand. There are high-quality laptop stands that weigh no more than 2lbs, which are great for users who like to carry their laptops around with them in and outside the house. 

Style

Laptop stands vary in style to suit different situations: 

Single-Height Laptop Stands

Single-height laptop stands, also called risers, are often made of solid metal frames and designed to reduce clutter on your home office desk. These stands elevate your computer just a few inches and are angled slightly to enable the user to reach the keyboard more comfortably. The design also allows air to circulate and helps prevent overheating. Single-height laptop risers also give your office desk the advantage of appearing more stylish. 

Foldable Laptop Stands

Foldable or collapsible laptop stands are convenient and generally affordable. These are extremely popular as more people start to get more comfortable working from home. Foldable models allow for great flexibility. They are portable and can fit smaller spaces to match any setup you have in your home office. 

Tethering Laptop Stands

Tethering laptop stands aren’t what you’d call a home office staple. These are designed for visual or audio creators who use their laptops for photography or playing live music. Tethering stands keep laptop computers secure and stable at whatever height the user requires. 

Laptop Desks/ Standing Desks

A laptop desk is designed specifically for laptop users. They’re bigger and heavier than laptop stands but are less bulkier than a standard desk. There are laptop desks that are easy to set up in the bedroom or anywhere in the house. There are also standing laptop desks, which are fast becoming a trend in homes and offices. Standing desks allow you to work or attend online meetings in a standing position, which has been proven to improve mental alertness, metabolism, and posture. 

 

Material 

Some laptop stands are made of soft metal alloys, and others are built using fortified plastic materials. Metal stands are less likely to break or leave scuff marks although several models made of plastic are lighter but built just as sturdily.

Adjustability

There are several ways laptop stands can be adjusted to fit any position or physique. Sitting on a chair working on your computer for hours can result in strained muscles and cramps. You can enjoy a little more flexibility with a laptop stand that comes with adjustable features, such as height and eye level adjustment settings. You may even find stands that have rotating features for when you’re in a collaborative working environment. 

Compatibility

Manufacturers would indicate the screen sizes that a laptop stand supports. Make sure to know the dimensions of your computer before you go shopping so you get just the right size. Most laptop stands can hold bigger and heavier laptops. There are others, however, that are designed to support laptops of a specific size or thickness. 

Stability

The make and construction of the base should tell you how well the stand will keep your laptop secure in case of sudden movements. Look for a stand with grip features or anti-slip protective surfaces. Some stands feature rubber or silicone pads at the base for added security. Protective pads keep your laptop stand securely in place and, at the same time, prevent damage to your desk surface.

Ergonomics

Many manufacturers have introduced ergonomically designed laptop stands, designed with the user’s physical well-being in mind. If you’re setting up your workstation to be as ergonomic as possible, look for a stand that has a variety of adjustable settings without compromising on stability and versatility. Ergonomic stands can be adjusted to a perfect eye level so you don’t have to hunch over your screen.

Portability

Laptops are essentially powerful computing machines that you can take with you almost anywhere. If you’re lugging around a stand to go with yours, you may want to opt for a laptop stand that is light and more compact. Several collapsible laptop stands will barely take up space in your purse or backpack. Some models can be disassembled and reassembled at your convenience. 

Added Features

Some manufacturers have taken it one step further and added new, interesting features. Mousepads, cooling fans, drink holders, and cord organizers may not be what you’re looking for but if you’re someone who spends most of the day tapping away at the keyboard or squinting at the screen, such features could be nice to have.