Did you know that a dual-monitor setup for your workstation can help you be more productive? Researchers at the University of Utah conducted a study, and their research found that multiscreen desktops were “significantly more useful” and “preferred on every measure of usability” to single-screen setups.
The participants in the study simulated office work by editing documents, spreadsheets, and slide shows. Researchers measured editing time, number of edits, and total task time along with usability measures like efficacy, comfort, time to productivity, and more. They combined their findings into an overall evaluation of productivity, and those who used multiple monitors scored significantly higher on each item measured.
How to Position Your Monitors
Whether you use two monitors with a desktop or a laptop and a second monitor, you need to have them properly positioned for the best ergonomics. Both monitors should be positioned directly in front of you, next to each other, with the edges meeting directly in front of you. Like a single monitor, the height should be centered at your eye level.
If your monitors aren’t in the right position, you could end up with neck and shoulder pain. A monitor too low makes you tilt your chin down, and a monitor too high makes you tilt your chin up. Holding these positions for most of the workday isn’t good for your overall health—and will likely reduce your productivity.
Many people need to raise their monitors—especially if they’re moving to a standing desk. A dual monitor riser stand will help you position your monitors (or monitor and laptop) at a more ergonomic height.
Monitor Stand Buying Tips
There are lots of height adjustable monitor stands on the market, so here are three tips to keep in mind while you are researching the dual monitor riser stand that will fit your needs.
- Size. Not all height adjustable monitor stands are large enough to hold two monitors, or a laptop and a monitor, so be sure to do some measuring to determine whether your equipment will safely fit on top.
- Durability. Since two monitors (or a laptop and monitor) weighs more than a single monitor, be sure the monitor stand you choose can accept the weight of both items. If you aren’t sure how much your monitor or laptop weighs, you might be able to find the weight on the manufacturer’s website. If that doesn’t work, look for a similar item online—that way, you’ll at least have an estimate. Of course, you could always weigh them, if you have a scale available.
- Height. Again, it’s time to measure. Find out the height you’ll need for your monitors; your monitor stand should be able to position your screens at the height you need.