Let us begin by understanding what is a monitor arm? Simply put, a monitor arm, also known as a monitor mount or arm stand is essentially a supportive arm designed to hold up the computer monitor(s), such that you have complete control over the placement, height, as well as the angle of the same. More often than not, the monitor arm is clamped to the desk’s rear end.
Depending on the make, the design, range of height adjustment, and the number of monitors there is a wide variety of monitor stands available in the market. While these are external factors that differentiate between the types of monitor stands, the stands can also be categorised on the basis of internal factors, i.e. their movement mechanism, which is primarily of two types –
- Mechanical (Spring) Monitor Arm
As the name suggests, Mechanical Monitor Stands are enabled with a mechanical mechanism made of coil springs. Since this mechanism isn’t dependent on multiple parts, it works quite efficiently throughout its lifetime, which can be easily up to 8 to 10 years. That said, these monitor arms aren’t very smooth to operate, and can be a little noisy. Moreover, they have a strong release force and therefore may require more physical strength to bring to the desired position and keep it stay put.
One of the major advantages of a Mechanical Arm is that it can carry monitors of up to 15 kg without any glitches whatsoever. Yet another aspect where Mechanical Arms fair better is the number of monitors that they can carry. Their mechanism is ideal for single, dual, triple, and quadruple monitors alike. If need be, Mechanical Arm can even be designed to carry more than 4 monitors at once.
Due to the basic mechanism used Mechanical Arms are inexpensive. Since they are fairly low maintenance and quite durable, they prove to be more cost-effective in the long run as well.
- Hydraulic (Gas) Monitor Arm
As you may have guessed, Hydraulic Arms are more sophisticated monitor stands that are enabled with a gas spring mechanism which enables exceptionally smooth and precise movement of the arm. Subsequently, this type of monitor arm makes it rather easy to adjust the monitor at the desired position. Right from complete 180-degree swivel to swift portrait-to-landscape rotation, these arms offer an incredible range of movement.
Not only does it enable a feather touch movement of the arm in almost any direction, but the hydraulic mechanism also ensures a noise-free movement. What’s more? Unlike Mechanical Arm, Hydraulic Arm promises perfectly counterbalanced presentation, making it ideal for users with comparatively low physical strength such as young students, elderlies, and disabled people. One of the most remarkable advantages of Hydraulic Arm is that they are designed to conceal all cables, thereby offering the much-desired sleek look.
As may be evident, gas cylinders tend to shoot up the price of Hydraulic Arms. Moreover, prolonged use or gradual gas leaks can cause these arms to require annual maintenance. Even then, they may not last for over 5 years which inherently reduces their ROI. With changing times, however, there are now premium quality Hydraulic Arms available that easily last anywhere between 10 to 15 years.
That said, Hydraulic Arms are only suited for carrying monitors of up to 8 kg. Then again, these arms are designed to carry one or a maximum of two monitors at once, as the mechanism doesn’t allow for multiple monitors.
We hope that you are now well aware of the unique aspects, advantages, limitations, and applications of both Mechanical Monitor Arm as well as Hydraulic Monitor Arm. So, go ahead and choose a monitor arm that best suits your needs and preferences, and introduce the much-needed element of ergonomics in your work life!
FAQs
- What are the various types of Monitor Arms?
Below mentioned are the various types of monitor arms, based on their design and the utility that they offer.
- Spring Mounts
- Post Mounts
- Wall Mounts
- Rail Mounts
- Laptop Mounts
- I don’t like the bulky black coloured monitor arms. Are there any other colours or finishes that monitor arms are available in?
Yes, of course. In fact at Jinn Office Solutions, we understand this issue fairly well and therefore offer specially designed monitor arms that come in a rich and soothing aluminium finish for that premium look and appeal. Check out our most loved silver-hued Aluminium Monitor Stands –
- Single Monitor Aluminium Stand (Gas Spring Mechanism)
- Dual Monitor Aluminium Stand (Gas Spring Mechanism)
- Four Monitor Aluminium Stand (Mechanical Adjustment)
3. Which monitor arm is more durable—mechanical or hydraulic?
Overall mechanical monitor arms are more durable because they use coil springs; springs do not wear out easily over time. A mechanical arm can last around 8–10 years even with frequent daily use. They’re built for long term use and can maintain stability with heavy-duty setups. Hydraulic arms use gas springs which will weaken over time. A well-made hydraulic arm may last 10+ years, and may require more care for upkeep. So, ultimately if durability, longevity, and stability is your primary concern, mechanical arms are a better overall choice.
4. Are hydraulic monitor arms suitable for multi-monitor setups?
Generally, hydraulic monitor arms are better suited for lightweight, single or dual monitor setups. Hydraulic arms move smoothly and are easy to use; however they’re usually limited in weight capacity to 6-8kg per arm. When heavier monitors are used in a multi-monitor setup, mechanical arms are a better option. Mechanical arms have a substantially higher weight load capacity and they provide better stability for professional users of three or more monitors. So hydraulic arms are great to look at and easy to use but when it comes to strength and more mounts, mechanical arms always win.
5. Do hydraulic monitor arms need regular maintenance?
Yes, hydraulic or gas spring monitor arms may need some maintenance. Gas springs lose pressure over time and as the arms get use from the monitor weighing down on them, they will lose their ability to hold the monitor in a spot or move smoothly. This normally happens after a few years of regular use. Depending on the monitor arm is quality, some may be serviced or adjusted on a yearly basis to keep them performing at their best. It’s not a big issue, though if you’re looking for it to be a set it and forget it install that’s something to keep in mind. Mechanical arms have virtually no maintenance required.
6. Can I adjust the height and angle easily with a mechanical arm?
You can alter the height and angle using a mechanical monitor arm; however, you may have to put a little more effort into that vs a hydraulic monitor arm. Mechanical monitor arms use coil springs that are very stiff and stable, yet tend not to move as freely as gas springs. You may have to manually tighten or down screws or use some tools to make adjustments. But once set, mechanical arms are generally very secure, even heavier monitors. Mechanical arms also provide accurate positioning, but not necessarily for on-the-fly changes.
7. Can both types of monitor arms support ultrawide monitors?
Not necessarily. Both mechanical and hydraulic monitor arms, in theory, can support ultrawide monitors, but it generally comes down to the weight and size of the monitor. Mechanical arms are usually better suited to heavy ultrawide monitors due to having a greater load capacity and their durable spring mechanism. Hydraulic (gas spring) arms are generally smoother, but often have lower load capacity – frequently around 6-8 kg – which can be lower than the weight of the larger ultrawide displays. If you have a monitor of 34 inch or larger, a mechanical arm with a higher load capacity is normally the better option for both safety and stability.
