Small desks offer a clean, focused workspace—but they can quickly feel cramped, especially when a bulky monitor takes over your surface. That’s where monitor arms come in. These clever accessories lift your screen off the desk, freeing up valuable space while dramatically improving posture and ergonomics.
Whether you’re a remote worker in a small apartment, a student with limited dorm space, or simply looking to tidy up your home setup, a monitor arm is one of the smartest upgrades you can make in 2025. In this guide, we review the best monitor arms for small desks based on adjustability, price, build quality, and design.
Frank Carter is a gadget reviewer and workspace optimization nerd who helps readers find smart tech that actually solves real problems. At Amazing Gadgets, he shares honest reviews and practical tips for remote workers, travelers, and minimalists.
Reading Time: 4 minutes · Last Updated on May 22, 2025 by Frank Carter
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What to Look For in a Monitor Arm:
Mounting Type
Most monitor arms either use a C-clamp or a grommet mount. C-clamps are easiest to install and don’t require drilling, while grommet mounts offer a more secure, permanent option.
Weight Capacity
Make sure your chosen arm supports your monitor’s weight — especially if you use a large curved or ultra-wide screen. Overloading an arm can cause sagging or alignment issues over time.
Adjustability
Look for a full range of motion: tilt, pan, swivel, and height adjust. This allows you to fine-tune screen position and switch between sitting and standing setups.
Ease of Installation
Many arms come with built-in cable management and clear instructions. Models that include pre-assembled parts can save a lot of setup time.
Design & Build
For small or minimal setups, choose a sleek, low-profile arm that doesn’t overwhelm your desk. Matte black and silver finishes are popular and match most aesthetics.
| Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | HUANUO Single Monitor Arm |
| Price |
 | NB North Bayou |
| Price |
 | Amazon Basics |
| Price |
 | Ergotron LX |
| Price |
1. HUANUO Single Monitor Arm
Great for first-time users or anyone working from a compact desk. The easy adjustability makes it ideal for frequent posture changes.
- Gas spring mechanism for smooth adjustment
- Supports 13″–32″ screens up to 19.8 lbs
- Tilt, swivel, and full 360° rotation
- C-clamp and grommet mounting options
- VESA 75x75mm & 100x100mm compatible
2. NB North Bayou F80 Monitor Arm
A great match for students or hybrid workers who want premium motion control at a budget-friendly price.
- Fits 17″–30″ monitors up to 19.8 lbs
- Sleek gas spring design with smooth adjustability
- Clamp and grommet mounting
- Good cable management system
- Modern finish ideal for minimalist desks
“Want a cleaner look? Don’t miss our home office cable organizing guide.”
3. Amazon Basics Premium Monitor Arm
Reliable for everyday use, especially if you switch between home and office setups. It’s compatible with most standard VESA mounts.
- Supports monitors up to 32″
- Sturdy and smooth movement
- Clean black finish blends well with most setups
- VESA compliant and easily adjustable
- Budget-friendly with strong user reviews
4. Ergotron LX Desk Mount Monitor Arm
Perfect for those who work long hours and want premium ergonomics. Ideal for editors, designers, or dual-screen users.
- Supports monitors up to 34″ and 25 lbs
- Trusted brand with professional-grade build
- Smooth adjustability and long-term reliability
- Polished aluminum for high-end aesthetics
- Great for professional setups or heavy displays
“Pair your clutter-free setup with one of these space-saving clip-on desk lamps for better lighting.”
FAQ: Monitor Arms for Small Desks
How to Choose the Best Monitor Arm for a Small Desk
- Monitor Size & Weight: Confirm your arm supports your display specs.
- Mount Type: Most arms offer clamp and grommet options.
- Range of Motion: Look for arms with swivel, tilt, rotate, and lift.
- Desk Space Efficiency: Cable routing and vertical lift are a bonus.
- Build Material: Opt for durable aluminum or steel for longevity.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Monitor Arm
Choosing the best monitor arm depends on how you work, how much desk space you have, and how flexible your setup needs to be. If you’re just getting started, the HUANUO is a solid all-rounder. Need advanced motion and flexibility? The Ergotron LX is worth the investment.
Monitor arms can transform even the most cramped setup into a cleaner, more comfortable workspace — improving posture, reducing neck strain, and keeping your space clutter-free.
Personally, I use the NB North Bayou on a narrow IKEA Linnmon desk and it fits perfectly, leaving plenty of room for a keyboard tray and mouse mat. A simple arm can truly change how your workspace feels.
Don’t forget to check your desk thickness and monitor weight before buying. And if you use dual screens or plan to upgrade soon, look for arms with expansion options or dual-mount capabilities.
Explore our full Home Office Gadgets section for more compact workspace tips and tools.
Want to complete your desk setup? Check out our guide to the Cable Management Kits That Actually Work.
Frank Carter is a gadget reviewer and workspace optimization nerd who helps readers find smart tech that actually solves real problems. At Amazing Gadgets, he shares honest reviews and practical tips for remote workers, travelers, and minimalists.