How to Choose a Laptop Stand That Improves Your Setup

Hunching over a laptop is the desk equivalent of wearing shoes two sizes too small. A stand raises your screen to eye level, opens up your posture, and improves cooling so your machine does not sound like a jet engine by 3pm.

Height: the non-negotiable

Your screen's top edge should be at or slightly below eye level. That means lifting the laptop 15-25 cm off the desk. Adjustable stands let you fine-tune; fixed stands must be the right height from day one.

If you use an external keyboard and mouse (and you should, with a stand), factor that in. The stand height only matters for the screen.

Material and stability

Aluminium dissipates heat better than plastic, feels more premium, and does not wobble when you type. It is worth the extra £10-15.

Check weight capacity. A 17-inch gaming laptop needs a stand rated for 3-4 kg minimum.

Fixed vs. portable

A fixed stand lives on your desk. Get the sturdiest one. A portable stand folds flat for coffee shops and co-working. If you split time between home and office, get both.

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Frequently asked questions

Do laptop stands help with cooling?

Yes. Lifting the laptop improves airflow underneath, lowering temperatures by 5-10 degrees C.

Will a stand work with my laptop size?

Most fit 10-17 inch laptops. Check width and depth specs for larger machines.

Can I use a stand with a monitor?

Absolutely. Laptop on the stand as a secondary screen with an external monitor as your main display. The healthiest desk setup.

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