This category has over 170 stands and arms for laptops: standard desk stands, stands for a laptop and tablet, arm shelves, and arms that hold a laptop alongside a monitor.
They are meant for desk work where you want the screen raised to eye level. The range includes products from Neomounts, ACT, Fellowes, Rain Design and StarTech.com.
How to choose a laptop stand
Screen size. Check first which screen diagonal the stand is made to hold. Our range includes models for 15, 15.6, 16, 17 and 17.3-inch laptops, and some arms are rated for screens of up to 22 inches. A laptop larger than the stated limit may sit unsteadily.
Weight capacity. Many stands are rated for up to 5 kg, which is enough for a typical laptop. If you plan to hold a heavier machine, or a laptop and a tablet together, look for a model rated for 10 or 20 kg.
Height adjustment. Most stands in our range can be adjusted in height, which matters most for ergonomics. The top of the screen should sit roughly at eye level, so an adjustable stand lets you fit it to your chair and desk rather than the other way round.
Material. Aluminium is the most common material in our range: it is rigid and conducts heat, so the underside of the laptop is ventilated a little better. Steel is more often used for arms and heavier loads, while plastic stands tend to be lighter and easier to carry.
Type of stand. A desk stand simply sits on the surface and needs no installation. An arm clamps to the edge of the desk, which frees up workspace and lets you move or swivel the screen. If you carry your laptop around often, look for a foldable model.
Brands we carry
- Neomounts: a Dutch maker known for monitor arms and desk mounts, which is why it offers many models with an arm.
- Fellowes: an office and ergonomics accessories maker, also known for wrist rests and other desk accessories.
- Rain Design: a US company best known for the aluminium mStand.
- Kensington: created the Kensington security lock slot used to secure laptops to a desk.
- StarTech.com: known for docking stations, adapters and other IT accessories.
- R-Go Tools: a Dutch maker that specialises in ergonomic computer accessories.
Also in our range: ACT, AXAGON, Hama, Esselte Leitz, Unitek and Dell.
Laptop stand FAQ
What height should a laptop stand be?
The top of the screen should be roughly at eye level when you sit upright. An adjustable stand is the safest choice, because the right height depends on your build, your chair and your desk.
Do I need an external keyboard and mouse with a laptop stand?
Yes, in practice you do. Once the laptop is raised, its own keyboard sits too high and your arms tire quickly. An external keyboard and mouse let you keep the screen raised while your hands rest on the desk.
Does a laptop stand help with cooling?
To a degree. A stand lifts the laptop off the desk, so air moves more freely underneath, and an aluminium body helps spread heat. It does not replace active cooling, but it is often enough for ordinary work.
How do I know if a stand will fit my laptop?
Compare your laptop's screen diagonal and weight with the limits the manufacturer states. A 17-inch laptop, for example, needs a stand rated for at least 17 inches, and its weight capacity must exceed the weight of the laptop.
