Dual monitors is not just for gamers and engineers anymore. During the pandemic, many people took to remote work and have adopted a dual monitor set up in their home offices. As a matter of fact, I use a dual monitor set up for my writing work and I enjoy it very much.
Working like this has improved my productivity and efficiency, and overall, much more happier. But there’s more to a dual monitors than just putting two monitors together and calling it a day. There’s the ergonomics to consider, which refers to the design of a work environment and how it’s conducive to efficiency.
Good Set up
Having a proper set up can make a big difference and actually minimize pain and injury. Improper sitting and habits can actually lead to back and neck pain. Because of the potential risk of injury, the number one tip that I can give is get yourself a mount for the monitors.
Mounting monitors can save precious desk space and give you the freedom of adjusting the displays and getting the perfect angle. It may seem inconsequential at first, but the distance and angle of a display can reduce eye strain. It’s recommended that you keep the monitors at about an arm’s length and tilt each screen at 15° angle.
The reasons for these suggestions is to keep your neck in a neutral position for as long possible, main good visibility so you’re cranking your neck forward or squinting, and reduce eye strain. This is important to have a set up like this when you spend a long time in front of a computer screen.
Posture is something that many not think about, but it’s important as well.
If you use both monitors often, place in an open V angle to allow you to stay centered and in between the two screens. Something as simple as the way you sit in relation to the monitors can make all the difference.
If you ever adjust your monitors, keep both at the same height to steady your gaze and neck posture. It may seem silly at first, but neck and back injuries happen over time.
Monitor mounts usually come in either a desk mount or a wall mount, and there are others for specific types of desks. For example, a wall mounted computer desk may require a certain type of mount to fit properly.
Best Monitor Desk Mount
Dual monitor desk mounts are the most common type. They install right on top of a desk and are easily adjustable. For a computer mount desk for set up, these are types I recommend.
There are a few things to consider when picking out a mount. You will have to see what type of mount it is. Many stands use a VESA standard for their mounts which ensures a specific type of clamp is used. VESA mounts are highly flexible, easy to adjust, and easy to adjust.
NOTE: The VESA Standard defines the distance in millimeters between the mounting holes on the back of a display. Common sizes are 100x100, 200x200m and 400x400. The easiest and quickest way to figure out your monitor’s VESA Standard (if it has those mounting holes) is to simply measure them.
You also have to check how much weight and size the stand can handle in order to avoid breaking a display. The maximum supported weight and monitor size is typically on the side of the box or in the product description if you’re shopping online. And speaking of display breaking, double check if a stand has a clamp to attach itself to the desk or its freestanding. One isn’t better than the other; it’s merely personal preference.
To give an idea of a good desk mount, I use the StarTech ARMSLIMDUOS Monitor Mount. This mount uses VESA mount for optimal flexibility, it can support up to 32” monitors on each arm, and it attaches to the desk with a c-clamp.
Computer Mount for Desks
If you’re interested in further the ergonomics of your work space, there are computer mounts for desk. They are attached to the underside of a desk and suspend your PC above the floor. These mounts are great for keeping desk space neat and tidy.
A computer mount will make your desk clear while keeping cables and wires in place taking full advantage of space available. I recommend using these mounts if you have a sit-to-stand workstation since it will allow your desktop computer to go up and down. That way, you will have access to ports and accessories without having to unplug anything. Everything will be at an arm’s length.
Desk mounts also keep your PC off the ground ensuring it stay cool and free of dust.
There are various brands out there with their own under desk mount. Sticking with StarTech, they have an under desk PC holder that I personally think it’s great. It has a weight capacity of up 66 lbs, more than what I need, but still useful.
Wall Mounted Computer Desk
A wall mounted computer desk is perfect if you have limited office space in your home.
Also called floating desks, set ups like these give you the optimal workspace without having to sacrifice limited floor space. Wall mounted desks can installed in nearly any room and double as storage.
Wall mounted desks come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles. Designs can range from angular retro-looking desks to a more traditional secretary style that can give the workspace a formal look to it. Larger models can even accommodate multiple computer monitors. Some desk have cable management built within them too.
The sky’s the limit with the ergonomics of a wall mounted computer desk. It can be installed low to the ground or standing height.
Much of these products and more can be found on compgiant.com, a online store where people can buy computers, hardware, desk mounts, cables and small devices to name a few.
If you’re interested in bettering the ergonomics of your workspace, desk mounts can be purchased here.
I hope that the information here was of some use at least, and convinced you to reconsider your workspace and how it can be made better.
