When upgrading your desk setup, choosing the right monitor arm is often the difference between a workspace that works for you and one that constantly frustrates you. Colebrook Bosson Saunders (CBS) makes two of the most respected monitor arms in the world: the Flo and the Ollin. Both are exceptional, but they are built for entirely different purposes.
The short answer is simple. If you use a standard monitor between 2kg and 7kg, the CBS Flo Single Monitor Arm is the proven, reliable choice. If you have a very light monitor, a heavy screen up to 9kg, or want to mount a laptop, the CBS Ollin Monitor Arm is the better option because its technical cord mechanism can handle weights starting from 0kg.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down exactly how these two premium monitor arms compare, the technical differences that matter, and which one you should choose for your specific desk setup. Whether you are outfitting a home office or planning a corporate rollout, understanding these differences is crucial for long-term ergonomic comfort.
Why Your Monitor Arm Choice Matters for Ergonomics
A good monitor arm does more than just hold your screen off the desk. It allows you to position your monitor at the exact correct ergonomic height, depth, and angle for your posture. When you change tasks, shift in your ergonomic task chair, or move from sitting to standing at your sit to stand desk, your screen should move with you effortlessly.
Proper monitor positioning reduces neck strain, prevents eye fatigue, and encourages a healthier overall posture. Both the Flo and the Ollin excel at this dynamic movement. Unlike cheap gas-strut arms that bounce or sag over time, CBS arms stay exactly where you leave them. The difference lies in the engineering inside the arm and the specific weight ranges they support.
Investing in a high-quality monitor arm is just as important as choosing the right Herman Miller Aeron or HAG Capisco chair. It completes the ergonomic ecosystem of your workstation.
CBS Flo: The Proven Standard in Office Ergonomics
The CBS Flo is arguably the most successful ergonomic monitor arm ever designed. It uses a patented dual-rate spring technology that provides incredibly smooth, fingertip adjustment. This mechanism has been tested and proven in thousands of commercial offices worldwide.
Key Specifications of the CBS Flo
- Weight Range: 2kg to 7kg
- Horizontal Reach: 584mm
- Vertical Adjustment: 483mm
- Tilt: 40 degrees upward, 40 degrees downward
- Screen Rotation: 180 degrees (easy landscape to portrait switching)
The Flo is the workhorse of commercial offices worldwide. If you have a standard 24-inch or 27-inch monitor, it will likely fall perfectly into the Flo's 2kg to 7kg sweet spot. The movement is fluid, the design is minimal, and the integrated three-point cable management keeps your desk completely clear of wire clutter.
However, the Flo has a minimum weight requirement of 2kg. If you try to mount a lightweight tablet or a very light modern screen, the spring tension will push the arm up to its highest position and it will not stay down. This is an important consideration as modern displays become increasingly lightweight.
For those looking to optimise their workspace further, pairing the Flo with a premium chair like the HAG SoFi creates an incredibly comfortable and productive environment.
CBS Ollin: The Next Generation of Monitor Support
The CBS Ollin represents a completely different approach to monitor support. Instead of a traditional metal spring, the Ollin uses a technical cord mechanism. This engineering breakthrough solves the main limitation of traditional spring arms: the minimum weight requirement.
Key Specifications of the CBS Ollin
- Weight Range: 0kg to 9kg
- Horizontal Reach: 674mm
- Vertical Adjustment: 367mm
- Tilt: 80 degrees rearward, 10 degrees forward
- Screen Rotation: 180 degrees
Because the Ollin can support weights from 0kg up to 9kg, it is the most versatile monitor arm on the market. You can mount a lightweight laptop today, and upgrade to a heavy 34-inch ultrawide monitor tomorrow, all using the exact same arm.
The Ollin also features an impressive 80-degree rearward tilt. This makes it the perfect choice for touch screen users who need to angle their display back like a drafting table. The technical cord mechanism ensures smooth, consistent resistance throughout the entire range of motion.
If you are setting up a flexible workspace, perhaps featuring a Framery One Compact pod nearby, the Ollin provides the adaptability needed for modern, agile working environments.
Direct Comparison: CBS Flo vs CBS Ollin
To help you make the best decision for your workspace, we have compiled a direct comparison of the key features. Both arms offer exceptional build quality, but their specifications cater to different needs.
| Feature | CBS Flo | CBS Ollin |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Range | 2kg to 7kg | 0kg to 9kg |
| Mechanism | Dual-rate spring | Technical cord |
| Horizontal Reach | 584mm | 674mm |
| Vertical Range | 483mm | 367mm |
| Tilt Range | 40° up, 40° down | 80° rearward, 10° forward |
| Best For | Standard monitors, standard desks | Laptops, touch screens, heavier monitors |
Dual Monitor Setups: Flo Dual vs Ollin Dual
If you use two screens, both systems offer excellent dual-arm solutions, but they approach it differently. Managing two screens effectively is essential for productivity, especially when paired with a spacious sit to stand desk.
The CBS Flo Dual provides two independent arms mounting from a single desk clamp. This gives you maximum flexibility to position each screen exactly where you want it, at different heights or depths. It is perfect if you use two different sized monitors or want one in portrait and one in landscape. The independent movement allows for a truly customised ergonomic setup.
The CBS Ollin Dual Mount Bar uses a single heavy-duty Ollin arm with a crossbar that holds two screens. This ensures your monitors are always perfectly aligned with each other. When you move the arm, both screens move together. This is the cleaner, more structured option if you use two identical monitors side by side. It simplifies adjustment and keeps your workspace looking incredibly neat.
How to Choose the Right Arm for Your Setup
Before you buy, check the weight of your monitor without its factory stand. This is the most critical factor in your decision. You can usually find this information in the manufacturer's specifications online.
Choose the CBS Flo if:
- Your monitor weighs between 2kg and 7kg.
- You want the most proven, reliable spring mechanism on the market.
- You need maximum vertical height adjustment.
- You are buying for a standard corporate office rollout.
- You prefer a classic, minimalist design that blends into any office environment.
Choose the CBS Ollin if:
- You want to mount a laptop or a very light screen (under 2kg).
- Your monitor is on the heavier side (7kg to 9kg).
- You use a touch screen and need the deep rearward tilt.
- You have a deep desk and need the extra horizontal reach.
- You want the flexibility to change monitor sizes drastically in the future without buying a new arm.
Integrating Monitor Arms into Your Ergonomic Workspace
A monitor arm is just one piece of the ergonomic puzzle. To truly benefit from a dynamic workspace, you need to consider how all your equipment works together. For instance, if you are using a Humanscale World One LM chair, you already appreciate intuitive, weight-sensitive adjustments. The CBS monitor arms complement this philosophy perfectly by offering effortless screen positioning.
Similarly, if you practice active sitting with a HAG Capisco Puls 8010, you will frequently change your posture and height throughout the day. A high-quality monitor arm like the Flo or Ollin allows you to quickly adjust your screen to match your new position, ensuring you maintain proper neck alignment whether you are sitting low, perched high, or standing.
For more insights on creating a healthy workspace, read our guide on how to choose the right monitor arm for your desk setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to drill a hole in my desk to install a CBS monitor arm?
No, you do not need to drill a hole. Both the Flo and the Ollin come with top-mount or split clamps that attach securely to the back edge of your desk without any drilling. They fit standard desk thicknesses from 12mm to 25mm. If you prefer a grommet mount through an existing cable hole, those options are also available.
Will the CBS Flo or Ollin fit my specific computer monitor?
Both arms use standard VESA 75mm and 100mm mounting plates, which fit 99% of modern computer monitors. If you have an Apple display, such as an iMac or Studio Display, you may need a specific VESA adapter from Apple before you can attach it to the arm.
Can I mount a laptop on these monitor arms?
Yes, but you must use the Ollin for the best experience. Because laptops are very light, the Flo's spring mechanism will push the laptop up. The Ollin's 0kg starting weight makes it perfect for laptop mounting when paired with a compatible laptop tray attachment.
What is the warranty on CBS monitor arms in Australia?
Both the Flo and the Ollin come with a comprehensive 12-year commercial warranty. This reflects their exceptional build quality, rigorous testing, and long-term durability in demanding office environments.
How do I manage cables with the Flo and Ollin arms?
Both arms feature excellent integrated cable management systems. The Flo uses a three-point system that routes cables neatly along the arm, while the Ollin has a built-in channel that hides cables completely from view, keeping your desk tidy and professional.
Can I upgrade a single arm to a dual arm setup later?
It depends on the model. The standard single arms are designed for one screen. However, if you anticipate needing two screens, it is often more cost-effective to purchase a dual setup initially, or look into modular systems like the Humanscale M/Flex ZG1 which allows for easy expansion.
Ready to upgrade your workspace? Explore our full range of premium monitor arms online, or contact the Chair Dinkum team for practical advice on the best solution for your specific screens and desk setup. We are here to help you create a healthier, more productive working environment.
