A dual monitor setup benefits most from proper arms because arms set height and depth correctly, reduce neck strain, and open up desk space. The right monitor arm raises your screens to eye level, lets you pull them closer for tasks, and pushes them back when you need room for notes or a laptop.
This guide explains how to choose the best monitor arm for a dual screen setup, what to measure before you buy, and which models suit different use cases. It includes comparison tables, setup tips, and links to recommended arms from Chair Dinkum.
Why you need a monitor arm, not just a stand
A monitor arm positions the screen at the height and depth you choose, rather than the single fixed position of a factory stand. Standard stands keep your screens too low and too close, which encourages a downward gaze and a forward head position. A good arm lifts the top third of the screen to eye level and allows a shallow downward tilt, which is the most neutral position for the neck.
The simple rule is this, your eyes should naturally land on the top third of the display when you look straight ahead. For many users this means raising monitors about 10 to 15 cm above the height of a typical factory stand. Arms also let you set the correct viewing distance, roughly an arm’s length for most 24 to 32 inch screens.
Single arm per monitor vs dual arm from one post
You have two main options for a dual setup. Two single arms offer maximum flexibility, while a dual arm on one post saves clamp space. Here is a quick summary.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Two single arms | Independent height and depth per screen, easiest to align mismatched monitors, flexible placement on different desk edges | Two clamp or grommet points, a little more hardware on the desk edge |
| One dual arm | Single mounting point, cleaner look, helpful when desk edge depth is limited | Screens share one central post, slightly less independent movement at the base |
For most users, two single arms such as a pair of CBS Flo Singles give the best alignment control. If your desk edge is tight or you prefer one mount, a CBS Flo Dual or a Float Dual uses one clamp while still giving independent motion at the arms.
Key features to look for in a monitor arm
1. Weight capacity
Match the arm to your screen weight without the factory stand attached. Most 24 to 27 inch displays weigh 4 to 7 kg. Common 34 inch ultrawides can reach 8 to 9 kg. Choose an arm whose supported range includes your monitor’s weight — and note that the minimum matters as much as the maximum, because a screen lighter than the arm’s minimum will ride upward and will not stay down. If you plan to upgrade later, choose an arm with a larger range to avoid replacing hardware.
2. Mechanism type
Monitor arms are counterbalanced either by a mechanical spring or by a gas strut, and manufacturers are explicit about which they use. The CBS Flo uses dual-rate spring technology, a mechanical spring. Chair Dinkum’s own Float also uses a mechanical spring rather than a gas spring. Ergotron describes its Constant Force mechanism as a coiled spring; Atdec states plainly that its arms are counterbalanced with a gas strut.
You will often read that gas struts degrade while springs do not. There is no published evidence for it: no manufacturer publishes cycle-life or durability data, and none states that its mechanism loses tension over time. Choose on feel, on the weight window, and on the warranty term, not on an assumption about which mechanism outlasts the other.
3. VESA compatibility
Most monitors use 75 x 75 mm or 100 x 100 mm VESA hole patterns. Check your monitor’s rear panel for VESA holes or consult the spec sheet. Some consumer models and ultra-thin screens need a separate VESA adapter. If you are unsure, send us your model via Contact us and we will confirm compatibility.
4. Mounting type and desk fit
Clamps suit most desks and are easy to install. Grommet mounts pass through a cable hole and are ideal for desks with an existing cut-out. Published clamp ranges vary widely between arms — the CBS Flo split clamp covers 0 to 65 mm, the Float covers 10 to 50 mm and ships with both a clamp and a grommet kit — so check your desktop thickness against the specific arm. Also check the clearance to the back wall: many arms need 8 to 10 cm behind the desk for the clamp and the arm to move freely. If you use a sit stand desk, also check the depth of the frame and crossbar. See our sit to stand desks and our guide, How to choose a sit stand desk in Australia.
5. Reach, tilt, and rotation
Look for an arm with enough reach to bring the screen close for detailed work, then push it back for multi-tasking. Ensure tilt and rotation cover your needs. Portrait mode is useful for coding and document review. A deeper reach helps with curved and ultrawide screens, where you need slightly more depth to centre the display.
6. Installation access
Worth checking before you buy, and rarely mentioned: whether the arm can be fitted without getting underneath the desk. Most clamp arms are tightened from below. The Float installs entirely from above the desk surface, which matters if your desk is built in, has a deep cable tray, sits against a wall you cannot move, or if you simply would rather not spend twenty minutes on your back under a workstation. On a multi-desk rollout it removes the slowest part of the job entirely.
7. Cable management
Integrated cable routing keeps power and display leads out of sight. The difference in daily use is real, a neat arm keeps your desk clear and makes sit stand movement smoother. Route cables with slack for lift heights and secure them along the arm’s channels. You can pair this with a cable tray on a sit stand desk for a tidy setup. Explore accessories that help manage cables and power.
Comparison, arm mechanisms and when to choose each
Choose the mechanism based on the weight window you need and how the movement feels, rather than on durability claims that no manufacturer publishes data for.
| Mechanism | Used by | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical counterbalance spring | CBS Flo and Flo X, Chair Dinkum Float, Ergotron (coiled spring), Thinking Works C.ME and Vader | Holds position once tension is set to the screen, consistent resistance through the range | Has a minimum weight as well as a maximum, set tension to match screen weight |
| Gas strut | Atdec, Thinking Works Glider | Smooth motion, broad availability, wide model choice | Also has a weight window, and no published cycle-life data exists for either mechanism |
| Technical cord | CBS Ollin | Supports screens from 0 kg, so laptops and very light panels work | CBS publishes no maximum screen size in inches for it |
| Pole and clamp with tilt head | Fixed-height mounts | Simple design, strong static hold | Limited dynamic movement while seated, adjust with tools |
Our recommendations by use case
Pick an arm that matches your screen weight, desk space, and movement needs. These suggestions cover the most common scenarios.
| Use case | Recommended arm | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Standard dual setup, up to 7 kg per screen | CBS Flo Single x2 | Dual-rate mechanical spring, fingertip adjustment, 483 mm vertical travel, 12 year warranty |
| Heavy or ultrawide screens | CBS Ollin | Handles 0 to 9 kg, 674 mm reach for ultrawides, smooth motion |
| Space limited desk edge | CBS Flo Dual | Single mount point, independent arms, clean footprint |
| Value builds and multi-desk rollouts | Chair Dinkum Float | $120 single, $160 dual, 2 to 11 kg (10 kg curved), 17 to 40 inch screens, clamp and grommet included for 10 to 50 mm desks, installs from above the desk, 3 year warranty |
| Deep desks and larger screens with a long warranty | ZGONIC ZG1-DS | 3 to 11 kg, 17 to 34 inch, 600 mm reach, Dial-Stop rotation lock, limited 10 year warranty |
You can browse all options in our monitor arms collection. If you want a full ergonomic refresh, see our task chairs like the Herman Miller Aeron or the HAG Capisco 8106 from our HAG collection. Pairing the right chair and arm makes a bigger difference than either alone. Learn more in The complete guide to HAG ergonomic chairs and What is active sitting.
How to check fit, desk, monitor, and mount
Measure your desk and review your monitor specs before you buy the arm. A few quick checks prevent surprises on install day.
- Desk thickness, confirm the clamp or grommet mount suits your desktop. Ranges differ by arm: CBS Flo and Ollin take 0 to 65 mm on the split clamp, Float takes 10 to 50 mm, the ZGONIC ZG1-DS takes 16 to 33 mm and 33 to 50 mm.
- Back clearance, allow 8 to 10 cm between the desk back edge and the wall for the clamp and for arm sweep.
- Frame and crossbar position, on sit stand desks check for interference with the clamp or grommet.
- Monitor weight without stand, find it on the spec sheet or the manufacturer website. Check it against both the minimum and the maximum.
- VESA pattern, look for 75 x 75 mm or 100 x 100 mm holes. If not present, you may need an adapter plate.
- Cable length, ensure power and display cables have enough slack for height changes.
Special cases, ultrawide, curved, and mixed monitors
Ultrawide and curved monitors need more reach and a stronger arm, and curvature pushes the centre of mass forward of the mounting plate, which loads the arm harder than a flat panel of the same weight. Some manufacturers publish a separate, lower figure for curved screens — Float is 11 kg flat and 10 kg curved, for example. For common 34 inch panels, choose an arm rated for their actual weight, such as the CBS Ollin at 0 to 9 kg or the Float Single at 2 to 11 kg. If you run two different sized screens, two single arms like Flo Singles make alignment easier. For stacked setups, ensure your arm has enough vertical range and that the bottom screen can sit low enough to keep the top third at eye level.
Ergonomic setup checklist, get position right in minutes
Set height and depth first, then tilt and angle. Use this quick sequence to dial in your screens.
- Seat height, set your chair so your hips are slightly above knees. If you use active chairs like the HAG Capisco 8106, set the gas lift height to support a neutral spine. See our ergonomics and movement guide.
- Monitor height, lift the screens so your eyes land on the top third while sitting straight. For laptops, consider a separate monitor to avoid neck bend.
- Viewing distance, set roughly an arm’s length, adjust for your vision and screen size.
- Tilt, aim for a slight downward tilt to reduce glare and neck extension.
- Angle, turn each monitor so the centre faces you directly. For dual screens, place the primary one in front, secondary slightly angled.
- Cables, route along the arm’s channels and leave slack for full desk height range if you have a sit stand desk.
Brand comparison, choosing between Flo, Ollin, Float and ZG1-DS
If you are between a few models, this quick table highlights differences that matter in daily use.
| Model | Best for | Capacity | Reach and flexibility | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBS Flo Single | Most 24 to 27 inch setups | 2 to 7 kg per screen, up to 34 inch | 584 mm reach, 483 mm vertical | 12 years |
| CBS Ollin | Laptops, very light screens, heavier panels | 0 to 9 kg, max screen size not published | 674 mm reach, 367 mm vertical | 12 years |
| CBS Flo Dual | Dual screens with limited desk clamp space | 2 to 7 kg per screen | Independent arms on one post | 12 years |
| Chair Dinkum Float | Value builds, multi-desk rollouts, awkward desks | 2 to 11 kg (10 kg curved), 17 to 40 inch | 469 mm reach, tilt +75° / −45°, installs from above the desk | 3 years, Chair Dinkum |
| ZGONIC ZG1-DS | Heavier screens on a long warranty | 3 to 11 kg, 17 to 34 inch | 600 mm reach, 290 mm vertical, Dial-Stop lock | Limited 10 years |
Note that capability does not track price here. Float, the cheapest arm in the table, carries more weight and a larger screen than the CBS Flo. What the premium arms buy is the warranty term and the build quality behind it, which is what matters when an arm is adjusted several times a day for a decade.
Common pitfalls to avoid
A little planning prevents most setup issues. These are the mistakes we see often and how to avoid them.
- Buying on screen size alone, always check weight without the stand and VESA pattern.
- Checking only the maximum weight, a screen below the arm’s minimum will ride upward and there is no adjustment left to fix it.
- Ignoring wall clearance, arms need room to travel behind the desk for full motion.
- Clamping to weak desktops, avoid thin particle board with voids. Use a grommet mount or an under-desk reinforcement plate if needed.
- Skipping tension adjustment, tune the arm to your monitor weight so it stays in place effortlessly.
- Setting both screens too wide, keep bezels close and angle both slightly in so your neck rotation stays minimal.
Who this guide is for
This guide suits home offices, corporate fit outs, and creative studios. If you use a sit stand desk, a stable arm is essential so your screens do not bounce as the desk moves. If you work long hours in front of a screen, pairing a monitor arm with a supportive chair such as the Herman Miller Aeron or a dynamic saddle chair like the HAG Capisco 8106 lets you set screen height and seat height together as you change position. See our Herman Miller collection and HAG collection for options, and compare chairs in related reads like Herman Miller vs HAG.
Installation tips, quick and clean setup
Most arms include the tools you need. Clear your desk, protect the surface with a cloth, and follow the sequence below for a clean install.
- Assemble the post and clamp loosely, position it on the desk edge or through a grommet.
- Tighten the clamp evenly, check that it sits square and solid.
- Attach the VESA plate to the monitor on a soft surface to avoid scratches.
- Lift and click the monitor onto the arm, two person lift for heavier screens is safer.
- Set the tension using the supplied hex key until the screen floats when you move it.
- Route cables along the arm’s channels, leave slack for movement and desk height change.
FAQs
What monitor arm do I need for a 27 inch monitor?
Most 27 inch monitors weigh between 4 and 7 kg, so an arm like the CBS Flo Single suits the majority of models. Confirm your exact weight without the stand and check for a 100 x 100 mm VESA mount. If you plan to upgrade to a heavier screen later, consider the CBS Ollin or the Float Single for extra headroom.
Can I use a monitor arm with a sit stand desk?
Yes, monitor arms work well on sit stand desks and help maintain consistent ergonomics at different heights. Ensure your desk has enough back clearance for the arm, and that the clamp does not interfere with the frame or crossbar. Browse our sit to stand desks and see our guide, How to choose a sit stand desk in Australia, for planning tips.
Do monitor arms fit curved or ultrawide monitors?
They do, but you need the right capacity and reach, and curvature effectively loads the arm harder by pushing mass forward of the plate. For many 34 inch curved monitors that weigh 8 to 9 kg, choose an arm like the CBS Ollin (0 to 9 kg) or the Float Single (2 to 11 kg, 10 kg curved). Set a slightly greater viewing distance and ensure the arm’s tilt head can handle the monitor depth. Two single arms are best if you are pairing a curved ultrawide with a smaller secondary screen.
Do gas strut arms wear out faster than spring arms?
There is no published data either way. No manufacturer publishes cycle-life or durability figures for monitor arms, and none states that its mechanism loses tension over time. It is a common engineering argument, not a documented fact, so choose on weight window, feel and warranty instead.
What if my monitor does not have VESA holes?
If your monitor lacks VESA holes, you will need a manufacturer adapter or a compatible VESA adapter plate. Check the monitor manual, then contact our team with your model via Contact us. We can confirm adapter options or suggest a monitor that is VESA ready.
Is a dual arm on one post better than two single arms?
Choose two single arms if you want maximum independent positioning, especially for different sized monitors. Choose a dual arm like the CBS Flo Dual or the Float Dual if your desk edge is tight and you prefer one mount. Both can deliver a clean ergonomic setup when matched to the right screens.
How high should my monitors be above the desk?
Set the height so your eyes meet the top third of the screen when you sit tall. For most people this is 10 to 15 cm higher than a fixed stand. Fine tune with a slight downward tilt to reduce glare. Pair good screen height with a supportive chair from our task chairs, such as the Aeron or Capisco, for the best long term comfort.
Next steps
Ready to upgrade your desk setup with a proper arm? Explore monitor arms or go straight to our top picks, the CBS Flo Single, the CBS Flo Dual, the CBS Ollin and the Float Single. If you want tailored advice, contact us with your monitor model, desk type, and how you work. We can recommend a setup that suits your space.
Building a full ergonomic workspace? Pair your arm with a supportive chair from our task chairs collection and a height adjustable desk from our sit to stand desks. Small changes, like correct screen height and a chair that encourages movement, often make the biggest difference to comfort and focus.
All products mentioned are available online at Chair Dinkum for Australian customers. If you are comparing chairs and arms, see related reads like Herman Miller vs HAG and The complete guide to HAG ergonomic chairs for more detailed chair advice.
