Laptop stands can make working at your desk more comfortable — here are the best ones
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Those of us who spend eight or more hours a day at our desks have to do what we can to avoid hunching like gargoyles over our keyboards. As if sitting for that long each day wasn't detrimental enough, this posture can contribute to chronic neck and back pain, as well as other musculoskeletal problems.
To reclaim your body's proper "neutral alignment," experts recommend placing your computer screen at or slightly below eye level.
While laptop users can make due with an empty shoe box and wireless keyboard, there are plenty of affordable stands that offer enhanced utility and aesthetics. Below are a few that stand out.
For overall versatility
AmazonSleek in function and styling, the iLevel 2 Adjustable Height Notebook Stand by Rain Design was highly rated by Forbes for its ability to comfortably accommodate different desktop setups. A front slider pivots the laptop up or down, effortlessly fine-tuning the height to your eye level.
While the sand-blasted and anodized aluminum construction is obviously intended to complement Apple products, the iLevel 2 is compatible with all notebooks and laptops as large as 15 inches.
Rain Design iLevel 2 Adjustable Height Notebook Stand, $64.90, available at Amazon.
For the minimalist
AmazonIf you just need a slightly angled keyboard or screen, then you need the Lazy Couch Portable Laptop Stand from Just Mobile.
Reviewers have noted that the 1.4-inch-high discs deliver the ideal ergonomic angle for typing. The discs also pack up easily, with grooves to snap the two pieces together. Made of aluminum and non-slip rubber, the design is compatible with any laptop, notebook or tablet, and is priced to fit even the tightest budget.
Just Mobile Lazy Couch Portable Laptop Stand, $12.84, available at Amazon.
For sitting or standing
AmazonWe're all familiar with the health perks of standing while you work. But desks designed for working on your feet can come with a steep price. And that has spawned an entire market of desktop stands that allow your ordinary "sitting" desk to accommodate either posture throughout the day.
The WorkFit-T Sit-Stand Desktop Workstation from Ergotron is notable for its thoughtful use of space. The keyboard and laptop surfaces lift straight up, rather than angling toward or away from the user, as some styles do. This means the WorkFit-T can be used on desks as shallow as 18 inches, according to the company. Additionally, the 35-by-23-inch upper level is large enough to function as a full-fledged work surface.
Ergotron WorkFit-T Sit-Stand Desktop Workstation, $372.15, available at Amazon.
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