As more people work from home or on the go with laptop stands, the question “Are laptop stands good for wrists?” has never been more relevant. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of ergonomics and explore how these gadgets can influence your wrists.
Also, please read our article on How To Use a Laptop Stand for a more covering guide for using a laptop stand the best way.
Table of Contents
Are Laptop Stands Good for Wrists?
Let’s go straight to answering the question you came here to get the answer to: “Are laptop stands good for wrists?”. No, many laptop stands force your wrists into an uncomfortable position because of the tilt and elevation of your laptop.
But, there are ways to minimize or avoid wrist pain and optimize laptop ergonomics, which we’ll talk about soon.
A laptop stand, of course, only affects your wrists if you write on your laptop’s keyboard.
How To Use a Laptop Stand Without Getting Wrist Pain
Use an external keyboard
To avoid pain in your wrists when using a laptop stand, you should consider using an external keyboard connected to your laptop.
This will keep your wrists in the regular writing position and ditch the need to hold your hands up on an angled laptop keyboard.
When I’m at home using a laptop stand, I always use an extra keyboard and connect it to my laptop. This way I can use my best keyboard -on my desk, and have my laptop at the same height as a normal monitor.
But what about when I’m sitting at a cafe or traveling a lot with my laptop? I usually don’t bring an external keyboard in that case, and just use my laptop stand by itself.
Then I write on the laptop’s keyboard. I suggest you do the same.
Buy a laptop stand with wrist rests
The other option you have to avoid wrist pain is to buy a laptop stand with wrist rests. With a stand like this, you don’t need an extra keyboard.
You can write on the laptop stand with your wrist in a resting position at all times.
I often use a stand like this when I’m traveling to avoid packing an extra keyboard, and still being able to use a laptop stand.
Types of Laptop Stands and Their Benefits
Adjustable vs. fixed-height stands
Adjustable laptop stands can be better for your wrists than fixed stands.
This is because, with them, you can change the height of the stand to make it more comfortable for your wrists throughout your time working.
If you’ve got a fixed-height stand you have to position your wrists the same way all the time, which can lead to more pain.
Read more about choosing the best laptop stand for you.
Features to look for in a wrist-friendly laptop stand
To ensure your wrists’ health is on top when writing on a laptop stand there are a few things you can look for in a stand.
First, and most obvious, is that the stand has some sort of wrist rest.
It could also be good to be able to adjust the angle tilt of the stand so that you can have your laptop keyboard at an optimal angle for the wrists.
And lastly, you may want to buy a lower laptop stand. You don’t want to hold your arms up in the air while writing on your laptop.
Health Benefits of Laptop Stands
For long days grinding away in the office, it’s essential to have a laptop stand to get several benefits.
A laptop stand, laptop holder, laptop riser, or whatever you want to call it can improve your posture which can be very important if you’re sitting with your laptop for long hours.
Improved posture paired with less neck and back pain comes from the laptop being at eye level or slightly lower. This is optimal for your body and boosts your ergonomics.
Long days in the office can also lead to eye strain, but this can be avoided with a laptop stand. Your laptop screen is now at a better height and you don’t have to look down as much, hence avoiding eye strain.
FAQ
Q1: Do I really need a laptop stand if I only use my laptop for a few hours a day?
A: Even if you’re not a heavy laptop user, a stand can still be beneficial. It promotes better posture and reduces strain on your wrists, neck, and back. For occasional use, consider a portable or adjustable stand that can be easily stored when not in use.
Q2: Will using a laptop stand affect my laptop’s performance?
A: Actually, it might improve it! Many laptop stands are designed to improve airflow around your device, which can help prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance.
Q3: How long does it take to notice the benefits of using a laptop stand?
A: Many users report immediate comfort improvements, but it can take a few days to a couple of weeks to fully adjust to the new ergonomic setup and notice significant reductions in wrist, neck, or back discomfort.