Most people recommend getting a monitor arm if you want an ergonomic computer set up.
And yes, monitor arms are great add-ons for any office.
However, installing a monitor arm isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
Here are eight things you should consider before getting one.
Is Your Monitor VESA Compatible?
Most monitor arms useVESA’s Flat Display Mounting Interface (FDMI) standardto ensure they will fit most screens.
Image Credit:Jowi Morales
However, not all displays are VESA compatible.
Some displays, like the55-inch Samsung Odyssey Ark, don’t have a VESA mount.
Can a Monitor Arm Reliably Carry Your Monitor’s Weight?
One more thing you should check with the monitor arm versus your screen is the weight.
Monitor arms are only rated for a specific weight, which varies between model and manufacturer.
Are Your Cables Long Enough to Reach Around the Monitor Arm?
Aside from ergonomics, another reason people use monitor arms is to have a clean desk.
However, when you do that, you add extra distance between your gear and monitor.
Does Your Desk Have Extra Room Behind It?
Image Credit:Jowi Morales
If you work in a cramped space, you will have less room to move around.
Can Your Table Accommodate a Monitor Arm?
Most monitor arms are either clamp- or grommet-mounted.
Is Your Desk Surface Tough Enough to Handle the Pressure of the Arms?
Since these mounts usually hold relatively heavy weight, you should securely clamp them to your desk.
However, when you do so, you apply pressure over a relatively small area.
That means it could leave a mark in the long run.
Monitor arms could even scuff your table’s surface when you install it.
Will Your Multi-Monitor Setup Fit Your Monitor Arms?
Monitor arms are especially useful if you have multiple monitors.
However, most multi-monitor arms have a maximum size limit they can accommodate.
How Often Will You Adjust Your Monitors?
However, you should also consider one last thing, especially if you have more than one display.
Monitor arms are notoriously hard to set perfectly.
You might find yourself consistently adjusting one monitor because it looks skewed versus your main display.
This is difficult and nearly impossible to perfect unless you have anexcellent monitor color calibrator.
Nevertheless, monitor arms are good investments as they can help you avoid future physical problems.
