The ultimate desktop companion
For quite some time, I worked directly off of my laptop without the aid of an external monitor. I noticed that because I was staring down at a screen on a laptop that I started having some difficulty with my neck. It would be stiff and painful because I was working at the computer for hours at a time. I finally adjusted my workspace to include an external monitor to help with the neck problems I was experiencing. This helped to alleviate the neck pain, but I started having issues with my shoulder because the monitor was still sitting a bit low. That’s why I decided to start using a monitor stand to provide a lift and hold the screen at eye level for me. I’ve actually used several different types of monitor stands in the past couple of years but my favorite by far is the Kensington CoolView Wellness Monitor Stand.
DETAILS
The Kensington CoolView Wellness Monitor Stand is an ergonomic monitor riser that is designed to promote proper spine alignment. It has a modern, stylish look and provides durable support for external monitors and all-in-one PCs (up to 27”). The stand has an integrated USB-powered fan that features a Dual-Fan Airflow System that provides natural, low noise airflow. The Dual-Fan Airflow System is ideal for energy-efficient cool air circulation. It has 2 speeds and optimal indirect blowing angles for a more comfortable workspace. The fan can be removed and used as a standalone desk fan. The stand as a steel base that can support up to 200 pounds and two magnetic cable clips that help users keep cords organized. Because the stand has a modular design, it can be used along with an integrated heater or air purifier (both coming soon).
USER EXPERIENCE
Getting started with the CoolView Wellness Monitor Stand was easy. Out of the box, the stand is already assembled. The feet are attached to the top platform and if you don’t plan on using the fan, there are no additional steps to take for installation (other than placing your monitor on top of it). If you want to use the fan that comes with it — which I highly recommend — you simply slide it through the front portion of the stand and slip the power cable for it through the back. The cable clips that are provided can help you to route the cable so it isn’t in the way of any other devices, but they do slide around a bit on the stand.
I pretty much fell in love with this stand the moment I started using the fan. That alone is worth integrating this stand into your set-up. It’s powerful but has two settings — high and low — for your comfort as well as a control lever that can open or close the vent so that you get your desired comfort level. I can’t tell you how many times I get warm sitting at my desk. For years I’ve used a small handheld fan to cool myself down after sitting by the computer for a period of time. And, while it worked, it was also battery powered and wouldn’t work for a long length of time. So, when I was able to install this USB powered fan that was virtually invisible and silent, I was thrilled. The fan from the CoolView has kept me comfortable for hours at a time.
The stand itself is very sturdy. As you can see from the image below, I have an ultrawide monitor sitting on top of it and even though the monitor’s legs extend past the edges of the Kensington stand, I have never had a problem with the balance of the stand. My favorite thing about the stand is the simple, clean design as well as the integrated fan. I do wish there was some sort of storage built into the sides because I typically end up piling up smaller objects on top of the stand. A small drawer on each side would alleviate this problem for me. I also wish there was slightly better cable management. While I appreciate the flexibility of the magnetic clips that are provided, they aren’t extremely functional when it comes to larger cables.
CONCLUSION
The Kensington CoolView Wellness Monitor Stand has truly made me more productive and willing to work for longer periods of time. Not only does the stand raise the monitor to the proper level for me to work, but it also gives me the opportunities to remain cool and comfortable no matter what else is going on in the office. While I would love to see some additional storage added to the stand, I love this product and would recommend it to all types of users.
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