Elevate your screen: The best laptop stands for creatives this summer

Summer's here, and we're all caught in that classic tug-of-war between work and play. On the one hand, deadlines are looming. On the other hand, the sun's out, and the park, beach, or pub garden is calling. So, how do you keep your clients happy without missing out on those rays?

Enter the humble laptop stand – your new best friend for those impromptu work sessions. Picture this: you're sipping an iced latte in an al fresco café while your trusty laptop stand transforms any spot into your personal studio. Or how about working on your latest project while enjoying the view from your Airbnb balcony? It's the best of both worlds.

Of course, when the weather cools and you're back inside, a laptop stand is just as useful – in fact, it's essential.

That's because these nifty gadgets aren't just about looking cool (though, of course they do). They're all about ergonomics: keeping your body in the right position to avoid strain and keep you healthy, comfy and productive wherever you are.

Why you need a laptop stand

Using a laptop stand is crucial for maintaining good posture and reducing the risk of neck, back, and shoulder pain. Prolonged periods of working on a laptop without a stand can lead to a hunched posture, which strains the spine and muscles.

Why? Because a laptop stand elevates your screen to eye level, promoting a more ergonomic setup. This adjustment helps keep your neck straight, and your shoulders relaxed, making it easier to work comfortably for extended periods.

So, if you spend hours on your laptop every day and add up all the days of your life, you're likely to do so; you'll realise how this small change can significantly improve overall well-being and productivity.

With that in mind, let's dive into the crème de la crème of laptop stands for 2024. Trust me, your future self and your osteopath will thank you.

1. Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk Compact Kit

Logitech is best known for its excellent keyboards, but why just buy a keyboard when you can buy a whole portable studio-in-one? That's what you get when you invest in their Casa Pop-Up Desk Compact Kit. While it isn't the cheapest option here, you do get a lot for your money: namely, a laptop stand, wireless keyboard, and mouse, all in a compact, portable package.

This kit ensures you can set up an ergonomic workstation anywhere, making it perfect for designers and writers on the go. And it's all packed into one lovely-looking fabric case, available in three relaxing colour schemes: Nordic Calm, Bohemian Blush, and Classic Chic. Then, when you're done, the kit folds back into a book-like exterior, made from wipeable fabric, complete with rubber strap.

Pros

• All-in-one package
• Highly portable
• Easy setup

Cons

• Higher price point
• Only three colour options

2. IKEA BRÄDA Laptop Support

Short on cash? When it comes to home furnishing, IKEA is typically your saviour. And when it comes to making your workspace ergonomic, they come up trumps, too. The IKEA BRÄDA is a simple, affordable laptop stand that costs just £15 at time of writing.

Made from bamboo veneer, it provides a stable surface for your laptop and helps improve ventilation. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around. When you're done, you can fold it flat and hang it on a wall.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Eco-friendly material

Cons:

• Not adjustable
• Basic design

3. Wooden Laptop Stand with Phone Holder

Our first two entries are brilliantly functional but not particularly exciting to look at. If you're seeking something more stylish and fun, check out this quirky wooden laptop stand from Etsy.

Offering both style and functionality, this handcrafted gem includes a phone holder, making it perfect for multitasking. Like all the options on this list, it elevates your laptop to a comfortable height, reducing neck strain and enhancing your workspace aesthetics.

Pros:

• Stylish design
• Includes phone holder
• Eco-friendly material

Cons:

• Not adjustable
• Slightly bulky

4. Zen Desk Standing Desk

Want to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day? Then take a look at the Zen Desk from Etsy, a versatile, wooden standing desk that caters to this exact need. While it's on the pricier side, its adjustable height and sturdy build make it suitable for various working environments, and it looks quite lovely, too.

Pros:

• Adjustable height
• Sturdy construction
• Promotes healthy posture

Cons:

• Larger footprint
• Higher price point

5. UGREEN Foldable Dual Rod Tablet Stand

If you work a lot on a tablet or laptop, the UGREEN Foldable Dual Rod Tablet Stand may be more your style. This compact, foldable stand is designed for tablets up to 12.9 inches in diameter.

Its double-hinge design provides a strong clamping force, allowing you to easily adjust its height and angle. It also supports both vertical and horizontal viewing. It works perfectly with smaller laptops, making for a stable and ergonomic setup. Finally, its foldable design makes it easy to carry around, making it ideal if you're often on the move.

Pros:

• Highly portable
• Adjustable height and angle
• Sturdy build

Cons:

• Limited to smaller laptops
• Basic design

6. Paramount Eco X Portable Wooden Laptop Stand

This eco-friendly wooden laptop stand from Etsy looks beautiful. It's currently on sale (just £14.99 until 17 August). It's lightweight and easy to assemble, making it perfect for creatives on the go. It's very stable in practice, too, although note that it's not height-adjustable.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly material
• Portable and lightweight
• Easy to assemble

Cons:

• Not height adjustable
• Slightly less stable than metal stands