As technology continues to evolve, computer monitors are getting bigger and more complex. In fact, according to a study conducted by the American Optometric Association in 2016, 58% of computer users suffer from eye strain, headaches, and other visual symptoms related to computer use. One way to reduce these symptoms is by ensuring that the computer monitor is positioned at the right height and angle. This is where monitor arms and monitor risers come into play. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two options and help you determine which one might be the best fit for you.
Monitor Riser:
monitor riser is a platform that elevates the computer monitor to a higher position on the desk. This is often done to increase the ergonomic height of the monitor and prevent neck and eye strain. Monitor risers can be made of a variety of materials such as plastic, metal, or wood while also coming in a range of heights and widths. They can also feature additional storage space or organization compartments for your desk depending on the riser.
Benefits of using a Monitor Riser:
1. Easy to set up: Monitor risers are easy to install and require little to no assembly. Most models can be placed directly on the desk without the need for any additional hardware or tools.
2. Affordable: Monitor risers are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased for under $50. This makes them an affordable option for individuals who are looking for a simple way to improve their workstation ergonomics.
3. Space-saving: The design of most monitor risers come with a spacious gap under it. A great space-saving option that can free up space for other items such as books, notepads or even a laptop. A useful quirk for those that work in a smaller workspace but needs the extra room for their productivity.
Monitor Arm:
A monitor arm is a mount that allows you to attach your monitor to a movable arm. This arm can be adjusted to move the monitor up or down, side to side, or even tilt it at different angles. This allows you to customize the position of the monitor to fit your specific needs. Monitor arms can be made of a variety of materials, such as metal or plastic, and come in a range of styles and sizes.
Benefits of using a Monitor Arm:
1. Customizable: The number one quality of monitor arms is that they offer a high degree of customization. These arms allow you to position your monitor exactly where you need it to be. and can help to reduce neck and eye strain while improving overall ergonomics.
2. Space-saving: Much like monitor risers, monitor arms can help free up desk space by lifting the monitor off the desk all while using only the edge of the desk itself and using minimal space.
3. Improved collaboration: By adjusting the position of the monitor, it can be easily shared with others in the room, a great option for those who frequently collaborate with others on projects.
Differences between monitor arms and monitor risers:
Both items offer their own efficient way to free up desk space but the key differences is the space taken from the legs that the riser comes with. While risers serve their purpose well, the gap underneath it is only limited by the length of the legs, thus limiting the height of the monitor relative to the user’s eye level. Monitor arms however, offer a bit more freedom and a wide range of motion when it comes to height and width.
Something to also consider from a stylistic point of view is what both items offer to the overall aesthetic of your setup. Most monitor risers come in number of colors that pair with the user’s desk. For example, if you were to own a desk with a rustic brown finish, then the riser itself should match the look as well. Monitor arms however come limited with colors, usually a neutral base look. Aesthetically speaking, risers have more than arms.
Who Should Use What?
If you’re looking at someone whose profession is in a regular office setting such as an administrative assistant or a data entry specialist, a monitor riser should be beneficial as they only need a simple computer setup such as a single monitor or a laptop. Most risers can only fit one monitor that can range from 21 - 32 inches so the need for flexibility is not required for their viewing experience. A fixed height is more than enough and that allows them to continue to concentrate on one screen while practicing better posture.
On the flip side, a monitor arm should be used whose setups are a bit more complex and require more than one monitor in their setup. An example is someone who deals with multitasking in their work such as a video editor or a coder where they need the flexibility of adjusting their monitor to their appropriate height and rotation. A simple setup uses a monitor in a horizontal position but someone that uses a monitor arm preferably wants another monitor at a vertical angle which gives them a better viewing experience for their files and other software while they work on their important tasks on the main screen. This type of setup provides the needed flexibility to adjust to their line of work accordingly.
At the end of the day, Monitor arms and monitor risers are just tools to achieve optimal productivity and reduce strain on the neck and back. Both have their unique pros and cons but offer a better overall work experience so that the user than can make the work hours count.