A large amount of office workers experience neck and back pain due to poor ergonomics. A laptop stand can be your sword against the pain and can provide you with a healthier, more comfortable work experience! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to use a laptop stand effectively. From choosing the right model to setting it up, and reaping all of its benefits.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Laptop Stand
Selecting the perfect laptop stand can make all the difference in your work setup. Let’s break down the key factors you need to consider:
Factors to consider when selecting a laptop stand
- Height adjustability: Look for stands that offer a range of heights to suit your needs.
- Stability: Ensure the stand can support your laptop’s weight without wobbling.
- Portability: Consider a lightweight, foldable option, if you move around often
- Ventilation: Opt for designs with good airflow to prevent overheating.
- Extra features: USB ports, phone holders, or document stands can be handy additions.
Different types of laptop stands
- Fixed stands: Simple and sturdy, ideal for permanent desk setups.
- Adjustable stands: Versatile options that allow you to fine-tune height and angle.
- Portable stands: Lightweight and collapsible, perfect for digital nomads and travelers.
Material options and their pros and cons
- Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and excellent for heat dissipation. It can be pricier.
- Plastic: Affordable and lightweight, but may lack durability.
- Wood: Aesthetically pleasing and sturdy, but often heavier and less portable.
- Steel: Extremely durable but typically heavier than other options.
Compatibility with your laptop model and size
Check the stand’s weight capacity – it should exceed your laptop’s weight.
Measure your laptop’s dimensions and compare them to the stand’s specifications. Consider the stand’s surface area – it should comfortably accommodate your laptop.
If you use a laptop with a unique design, ensure the stand won’t obstruct any ports or vents.
Remember, the best laptop stand for you depends on your specific needs and work habits. Don’t be afraid to invest in a quality stand. Your neck, back, and productivity will thank you!
Read our full article on How To Choose Laptop Stand
Setting Up Your Laptop Stand
It’s important to set up your laptop stand the correct way from the beginning so that you don’t encounter problems later. If you set up your laptop stand incorrectly, you may still get that neck and back pain.
Proper height adjustment
Set up your laptop riser so that the top of your screen is aligned with your eyes or slightly below when in your working position.
This applies to those who sit on a chair when working and those who stand. You should be looking down a bit when looking at the middle of your screen.
Tilt the laptop screen to reduce glare and ensure a clear view without straining your eyes.
Positioning your laptop stand on your desk
Your computer stand should be in the center of your desk with enough space for other things such as notebooks.
Place the laptop stand so the screen is 20 to 30 inches (50-75 cm) away from your eyes. The distance should allow you to see the screen comfortably without leaning forward.
| Too close | Perfect | Too far (squinting) | |
| Length from screen to eyes | 0-19 inches (0-49 cm) | 20-30 inches (50-75 cm) | 31+ inches (76+ cm) |
If you have an adjustable laptop stand, experiment with different positions to find the most comfortable distance.
I prefer to have my screen slightly closer than most people, otherwise, I have to squint my eyes. I usually have my laptop about 20 inches from my eyes.
Integrating with external keyboards and mice
If you’re using an external keyboard, place it directly in front of you on the desk, with your arms bent at a 90-degree angle and your wrists straight. Keep your mouse at the same height as the keyboard and close enough to prevent excessive reaching.
Cable management tips for a clutter-free setup
- Use cable clips or adhesive holders to group similar cables together, and consider color-coding for easy identification.
- Invest in a cable management tray, either built-in or under-desk, to hide power strips and bulky adapters.
- Utilize cable sleeves or spiral wraps to bundle multiple cables for a sleeker look.
- Take advantage of any built-in cable routing features on your laptop stand.
- Perform regular maintenance by reviewing your setup, removing unnecessary cables, and readjusting as needed.
Use these tips to declutter your desk and have an organized setup that makes you want to be at work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Laptop Stand
To get the most out of your laptop stands it’s important to know of common mistakes a lot of people make to avoid doing the same.
Incorrect Height Adjustment
Many people don’t know that the top of the laptop should be at or slightly below the eyes, so they adjust the laptop stand however they want. Don’t think that just because your laptop stand is adjustable, it can be any height. That can damage your neck and back, and lead to poorer performance.
Overlooking the Importance of Desk Chair Compatibility
One vital mistake some people make is buying a laptop stand that doesn’t fit with their desk chair. If you have a chair that makes you sit tall above your desk you need a taller laptop holder.
If you have a chair that makes you sit pretty low, you’ll want to buy a shorter laptop stand that allows your eyes to be level with the top of your laptop.
Ignoring Screen Glare and Lighting Issues
Ignoring the lighting in the space you will use your laptop stand in is not good. Using a laptop lift moves the laptop screen upward which can result in screen glare and make light from your lamp reflect directly into your eyes.
I made this mistake the first time I bought a laptop stand, and I had to use the laptop stand in another room until I changed the lighting in my home office.
Maximizing Productivity with Your Laptop Stand
Your laptop stand isn’t just about comfort – it’s a secret weapon for boosting productivity! Let’s dive into some game-changing strategies:
Creating a dual-monitor setup with your laptop stand
To get additional productivity and speed to your work you could buy a dual-monitor laptop stand to use two displays at the same time.
If you already have another monitor you could place the laptop stand next to it to get two screens at the same height next to each other. I do this sometimes when I have to.
Using your laptop stand for presentations and video calls
You can get a laptop stand to create more engaging video calls by having your camera at eye level. This makes your calls much more professional.
On the extra space underneath the laptop stand you could have notes or a script during a presentation on a video call.
Incorporating a laptop stand into a standing desk setup
Choose an adjustable laptop stand that can reach standing height if that’s what you’re doing. It may be nice to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day, so buy a laptop stand that can adjust to meet the best height for both standing and sitting.
Adapting your laptop stand for different work environments
Create a dedicated workspace with your stand as the centerpiece of your work-from-home setup.
When often on the go to coffee shops etc, it would be smart to use a portable laptop stand that can be easily brought, and is fast to set set up.
If you like to use your laptop in bed you can opt for a laptop stand for bed that is more comfortable and casual.
Maintenance and Care for Your Laptop Stand
To keep your laptop stand in top shape and ensure it lasts for years to come, let’s dive into some essential maintenance and care tips.
Cleaning your laptop stand
First and foremost, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your stand weekly.
Once a month you could use a mild soap solution to clean the stand more thoroughly. Nothing special.
Material-specific care:
- For metal stands: Use a specialized metal cleaner to prevent oxidation
- For wooden stands: Apply wood polish to maintain its luster
- For plastic stands: Avoid harsh chemicals that might cause degradation
Proper storage
Ensure all joints are clean before folding your laptop stand to prevent damage.
Don’t leave your stand in a hot car or freezing garage.
Also, store your laptop stand in a moisture-free environment to prevent rust or mold.
If you have several laptop stands, use them the same amount to distribute the wear on them so you can use them for longer.
Remember, a well-maintained laptop stand isn’t just about longevity – it’s about consistent performance. By following these care tips, you’ll ensure your stand remains a reliable partner.
How To Use a Laptop Stand – Conclusion
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of how to use a laptop stand like a pro, it’s time to put these tips into action! By incorporating a laptop stand into your work setup, you’re not just improving your posture – you’re investing in your health, comfort, and productivity. Remember, small changes can lead to big improvements in your daily work life. So go ahead, elevate your laptop game, and watch your productivity soar!
Further Reading On Using A Laptop Stand
How to Keep Laptop at Eye Level
Maintaining the correct ergonomic position is crucial for reducing strain during long hours of laptop use. If you’re wondering how to keep your laptop at eye level, there are several effective strategies to consider. Utilizing a laptop stand is one of the most popular methods, as it elevates your screen to the ideal height. Alternatively, you can stack books or invest in an adjustable desk to achieve the same effect.
Should Your Laptop Be at Eye Level?
A common question among laptop users is whether or not your laptop should be at eye level. The answer is simply yes, or a little bit under eye level. By ensuring your eyes are aligned with the top of your screen, you reduce the strain caused by looking down or hunching over. Learn more about why this setup is beneficial and how it can improve your overall work experience.
Disadvantages of Laptop Stands
While laptop stands are widely recommended for improving ergonomics, it’s important to be aware of the disadvantages of laptop stands. One of the main concerns is portability. Many stands are bulky, making them inconvenient for those who need to work on the go. Learn about more disadvantages so you can get expect realistic results when buying your laptop stand.
Are Laptop Stands Good for Wrists?
When it comes to improving ergonomics, especially for those who spend long hours at a computer, the question arises: Are laptop stands good for wrists? Laptop stands help elevate your device to an optimal eye level, reducing the strain on your neck and shoulders. But writing on them can deal damage to your wrist if you do it wrong.
Do You Need a Keyboard with a Laptop Stand?
When setting up an ergonomic workspace, it’s common to wonder whether you need an extra keyboard or not. Using a laptop stand can significantly enhance your comfort by elevating the screen to eye level, but the benefits are maximized when paired with an external keyboard. This setup helps maintain a proper posture, reducing the strain on your wrists, neck, and back, which is crucial for those who spend long hours at their desks.