Artists who move references often
If you bring a reference screen closer, turn it to portrait or move it aside between tasks, look for movement that does not also shift your main drawing display.
Who needs which layout?
Artists with heavy or ultrawide screens
Check the stated limit for each monitor and the supported layout. A screen’s diagonal size alone does not establish whether a mount can hold it.
Artists working at smaller desks
A vertical arrangement may reduce the width occupied by two screens. Check that the desk has room for the fitting and that the resulting screen positions work for drawing and reference viewing.
What matters when choosing?
Start with how often the reference screen needs to move, then check the exact monitors and desk against the mount you are considering.
Independently articulated arms
Choose when: You need to change the reference screen’s position without moving the drawing screen.
Trade-off: The available reach and movement, as well as the desk fitting, depend on the particular arm.
Vertical pole mount
Choose when: You want the reference display above the drawing display and expect that arrangement to stay largely unchanged.
Trade-off: Changing screen height can be less convenient than with an adjustable arm; check the adjustment method before buying.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Independent movement | Check each screen’s reach, tilt and rotation separately. | If I switch between images and documents, I want to bring references into view without disturbing my drawing screen. Around 36% of consumers put that independent movement first. |
| Monitor fit and layout | Compare each monitor’s weight and VESA pattern with the mount’s per-screen limits; check any ultrawide conditions. | With larger or heavier displays, I need to know that both fit the stated limits in my intended arrangement. For around 29% of consumers, monitor capacity and layout are the primary concern. |
| Desk fitting | Check desk thickness, clear edge space and the requirements for a clamp or grommet fitting. | My drawing desk may have an obstructed edge, so I need a fitting that works with its actual shape and construction. Desk compatibility comes first for around 21% of consumers. |
| Fixed-layout practicality | Decide whether screen positions will change during a session; check how height is adjusted. | If I leave my reference screen in one place, I would rather choose a layout that suits that routine than prioritise movement I will rarely use. Around 14% of consumers chiefly want that fixed arrangement. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing by screen size alone
A monitor can fall within a mount’s stated size range but exceed its per-screen weight limit or use a different VESA mounting pattern.
Check the model, mounting pattern and weight of each monitor against the specifications for the exact mount.
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Assuming the clamp fits your desk
Desk thickness, an obstructed underside or limited rear clearance can prevent a clamp from fitting, even when the mount suits both monitors.
Measure the usable desk edge and check the selected model’s clamp range and grommet requirements.
If the clamp cannot fit, you may need a suitable grommet fitting or a different mount.
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Using a fixed stack for a moving reference screen
A pole mount may suit an arrangement that stays put, but frequent changes to screen height or position can be less convenient than with articulated arms.
Think through a typical drawing session before deciding whether a fixed vertical layout gives you enough adjustment.
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Treating the arm as the whole workstation setup
Screen position is only one part of arranging a drawing workspace. The Health and Safety Executive also advises considering viewing distance and posture when using display screen equipment.
Position the displays for your work, then assess your chair, input devices and the rest of the workstation as well.
Brands and product lines to consider
StarTech.com
Its ARMSLIMDUO and ARMDUALV illustrate two different dual-monitor layouts: articulated side-by-side arms and a vertical pole mount.
- StarTech.com specifies two displays up to 32 inches and 8 kg per arm for the ARMSLIMDUO, and a 700 mm pole for the ARMDUALV.
- These specifications belong to separate models. Check the capacity, screen layout and desk fitting of the one you intend to buy.
Ergotron
Ergotron describes its LX Dual Stacking Arm as allowing each screen to be positioned separately.
- Separate positioning is relevant when the reference display needs to move independently of the drawing display.
- Check the weight, VESA and desk-attachment limits for the particular LX configuration before choosing it for two monitors.
Humanscale
Humanscale presents the M8 Pro for traditional desks and sit-stand workstations, with dual-screen use dependent on its configuration.
- According to Humanscale, an optional crossbar supports two monitors up to 12 lb each.
- Confirm the exact arm and crossbar combination, monitor weights and applicable UK purchase and warranty terms.
Joybuy dual monitor stand
This dual-monitor stand is relevant to keeping a drawing display and reference display separate. Check its movement, monitor compatibility and desk fitting against your intended arrangement.
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DELL Pro Dual Monitor Stand MDS19
Consider this dual stand if you want separate drawing and reference displays at one desk. Check both monitors’ weight and mounting interfaces against the MDS19, and confirm its adjustment range and desk fitting for your workspace.
Common questions
Where should I put the reference screen while drawing?
Keep the main drawing display in front of you where possible, and place the reference screen where viewing it does not require persistent twisting. The Health and Safety Executive advises positioning a screen at about arm’s length, with its top around eye level; an adjustable arm can help when your reference position changes between tasks.
How do I tell whether a stand fits both monitors?
Compare each monitor’s VESA mounting pattern and weight with the stand’s stated pattern and per-monitor limit. Check the intended side-by-side or stacked layout too; a stated screen-size range does not settle compatibility on its own.
Will a dual monitor arm attach to any desk?
No. Check the selected arm’s clamp range against your desk thickness, usable edge and rear clearance, or confirm the requirements for a grommet fitting. StarTech.com, for example, specifies a clamp for desks up to 60 mm thick on its ARMSLIMDUO; that limit does not apply to other models.
What should I check about mounting accessories and support?
Check what comes with the exact stand, including any mounting plates, adapters, grommet hardware or cable-routing accessories you need. Review the selected seller’s warranty and return terms for that product rather than assuming they are the same across models or sellers.