Best Monitor Arms for Standing Desks 2025: Free Up Space, Reduce Neck Strain
A monitor arm does more than clear desk clutter—it lets you position your screen at the exact height and distance your neck needs, especially important when switching between sitting and standing throughout the day.
Why Monitor Arms Matter for Standing Desks
When you raise your desk to standing height, your monitor often ends up too low. Most standing desks don't raise high enough to put the screen at eye level when standing. A monitor arm solves this by adding 12-20 inches of height adjustment independent of the desk. Plus, you reclaim all the space that bulky monitor stands eat up.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price Tier | Weight Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HUANUO Single Arm | Budget | 19.8 lbs | Best Value |
| VIVO Premium Aluminum | Budget | 22 lbs | Tall Height |
| Ergotron LX | Mid-Range | 25 lbs | Reliability |
| Ergotron HX | Premium | 42 lbs | Ultrawide/Heavy |
Our Top Picks
1. HUANUO Single Monitor Arm
Budget Tier — Under $50The HUANUO delivers surprisingly good build quality for a budget arm. The gas spring mechanism moves smoothly and holds position well—no annoying drift. Cable management clips are included, and it handles most 27" monitors without complaint. For the price, it's hard to beat.
✓ Pros
- Exceptional value
- Smooth gas spring
- Integrated cable management
- C-clamp and grommet included
✗ Cons
- Limited to lighter monitors
- Plastic components on joints
- Tension adjustment fiddly
2. VIVO Premium Aluminum Monitor Arm
Budget Tier — Under $60The VIVO Premium offers taller height adjustment than most budget arms—crucial for standing desk users who need screens at eye level when standing. The aluminum construction looks more professional than plastic alternatives, and the 22 lb capacity handles heavier monitors.
✓ Pros
- Taller height range
- Aluminum construction
- Higher weight capacity
✗ Cons
- Gas spring can be stiff initially
- Instructions unclear
3. Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm
Mid-Range Tier — $150-200The Ergotron LX is the industry standard for a reason. The patented Constant Force technology keeps your monitor exactly where you put it—no drift, no sag, even after years of use. The arm moves effortlessly with one finger, making quick adjustments during the workday seamless. It's what offices buy when they're tired of replacing cheap arms.
✓ Pros
- Legendary reliability
- Effortless one-finger adjustment
- No drift over time
- 10-year warranty
✗ Cons
- Higher price point
- Less height range than some budget options
- 25 lb limit excludes some ultrawides
4. Ergotron HX Desk Monitor Arm
Premium Tier — $300+The HX is built for monitors that break other arms. With a 42 lb capacity, it handles heavy ultrawides, professional displays, and even all-in-one computers. The same Constant Force technology as the LX, just beefed up. If you have a premium display, don't pair it with a cheap arm that can't handle the weight.
Built For:
Samsung Odyssey G9/G95, LG 49" UltraWide, Apple Pro Display XDR, Dell UltraSharp 40+", Professional reference monitors, All-in-one computers
✓ Pros
- Massive 42 lb capacity
- Handles curved ultrawides
- Same reliability as LX
- 10-year warranty
✗ Cons
- Premium price
- Overkill for standard monitors
- Heavy arm itself
Before You Buy: Check Your Desk
Most monitor arms attach via C-clamp (clamps to desk edge) or grommet (bolts through a hole). Make sure your desk has:
- A flat edge at least 2" thick for C-clamps (no rounded edges)
- Or a grommet hole, or willingness to drill one
- No obstructions underneath (keyboard trays, cable management)
Glass desks typically don't work with C-clamps. IKEA desks with hollow cores may need reinforcement plates.