Bottom line
The Ergotron LX is the best overall arm for smooth, durable adjustment. The Amazon Basics single arm is the best budget pick[1].
Most monitors sit too low on their stock stands, forcing your neck downward for hours. A monitor arm fixes that instantly — and the extra desk space under the screen is a bonus you'll notice every day.
The picks
| Arm | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ergotron LX | $149 | Best overall (smooth + durable) |
| Amazon Basics | $89 | Best budget single arm |
| HUANUO dual arm | $79 | Best budget dual arm |
What to look for
- Weight range — match your monitor's weight to the arm's rating.
- VESA compatibility — check your monitor supports 75/100mm VESA.
- Gas vs spring — gas/spring arms adjust smoothly with one hand.
Clamp vs grommet mount
Clamp mounts attach to the desk edge and need no drilling; grommet mounts use an existing cable hole and feel more secure on thin desks. Both work — match it to your desk type.
The verdict
Buy the Ergotron LX if you adjust your screen often and want an arm that lasts a decade. For most people, the Amazon Basics arm does the same job for less.