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Why use a laptop stand?

3 min read

An adjustable laptop stand is a relatively inexpensive piece of equipment with a number of advantages. One of the key benefits of a laptop stand is that you can instantly improve your posture and positioning while using your laptop.

If you’re looking to improve your workstation, keep reading to learn more about why and how to use a laptop stand.

Are there risks to using laptops?

Laptops have radically changed the way we work, giving office workers the means to break free from traditional 9-5 workdays and carry out computer tasks from practically anywhere. This is great for remote and homeworking - but it does come with additional risks.

When you place your laptop on a surface, you'll find you're having to look down to see the screen. The weight of your head hanging forward places a huge amount of strain on the spine which, over time, can cause aches pains and even long term injuries. This is so common it even has a name: tech neck.

To avoid tech neck while using your laptop, you'll need to find a way to elevate it to a more comfortable viewing height. Of course you can improvise with stacks of books or boxes, but it might take a bit of fiddling around to find the right height - plus you can't guarantee your homemade solution will be stable, safe, or particularly nice to look at.

An adjustable laptop stand, used with a separate mouse and keyboard, is the best way of creating a portable ergonomic workstation wherever you go.

Click here to browse our selection of laptop packs, which all include a stand, mouse and keyboard

Laptop stand benefits

There are more reasons to use this handy piece of kit than you might think. Here are some of the great benefits of using a laptop stand:

It lifts your screen to a suitable position

Adjustable laptop stands come with several height and angle options so you can find the right alignment for you. Check your positioning using the tips in the graphic below:

Make sure your eyes are about level with the top of the screen, arms are relaxed (not gripping the mouse), the screen is face-on, central and not in direct glare, your back makes contact with the back of your chair (use a cushion or towel for support), forearms are level with the desk surface (you may need to adjust the height of your chair), and feet are supported on the floor (use a box or stack of books).

Lightweight and portable

If you use your laptop on the go, you might be worried about adding extra weight to your luggage. Laptop stands are specially designed to be lightweight and compact so you can slip them into a laptop bag without even noticing the difference.

For the full package, we recommend opting for a mini keyboard too - a smaller, lighter style of keyboard, if you plan to be working while you travel.

Browse our collection of ergonomic keyboards here.

Prevents laptop from overheating

Many laptop stands, including the Slim Cool, offer ventilation and cooling benefits to prevent your laptop from overheating and shutting down.

Increase comfort and productivity

Working in a comfortable position increases the speed and accuracy of your inputting. You're also less likely to get achy throughout the day, increasing your stamina and helping you concentrate without the distraction of discomfort.

Keeping an open posture - not hunched over your screen, will improve your breathing and circulation, helping you feel better in yourself and more alert. With a laptop stand, it’s much easier to make sure you’re positioned comfortably.

Protection from spills and mess

Propping your laptop up on a stand keeps it elevated from the surface of your workstation, protecting it from any accidental spills. As you'll be using an external mouse and keyboard you'll also limit the amount of dirt being transferred onto the laptop, keeping it in good working order for longer.

Find a laptop stand

Now you’ve read all about laptop stand ergonomics and know the benefits, it’s time to find the perfect one for you.

Browse our range of ergonomically-designed laptop stands, which includes easy-to-use models for laptops and tablets, too.