Setting Up the Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm: What to Expect

Getting started with the Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is straightforward — but there are a few things worth knowing before you open the box. Here's what to expect.

What We Think, Straight Up

The best monitor arm we've tested. Works with nearly any monitor and holds its position perfectly.

If you've been on the fence, here's how we'd frame it: the Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is designed for anyone with a dual-monitor setup or back pain from a fixed screen. If that's you, it's very likely the right choice. If it's not, there's probably a better fit at a lower price point.

The Performance

We ran the Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm through daily use across several weeks. The things that impressed us most are the ones listed below — not the marketing claims, the actual experience of using it regularly.

There's a difference between products that sound good in spec sheets and ones that feel right in practice. The Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is in the second group.

What We Love

• Holds position without drift — set it and forget it
• Works with monitors up to 34 inches and 20 lbs
• Smooth adjustment with one hand
• Clean cable management built in
• Frees up a huge chunk of your desk

Room for Improvement

• Takes 20 minutes to set up properly
• More expensive than basic stands
• Not ideal for monitors heavier than 20 lbs

Who Should Buy It

This is for anyone with a dual-monitor setup or back pain from a fixed screen. If that's you — buy it. The Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is one of those products where you'll look back and wonder why you waited.

If you're on the fence because of price, consider how often you'll use it. Most quality purchases amortise down to almost nothing over their lifespan.

The Value Question

At $165.00, the Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm sits at the higher end of the category. Our take: it's priced correctly for what it is. There are cheaper options. They are cheaper for a reason.

We've tested the alternatives. The Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is the one we kept.

Our Verdict

The short answer: yes. The Ergotron LX Desk Monitor Arm is our recommended pick for anyone with a dual-monitor setup or back pain from a fixed screen. It's well-built, performs as advertised, and we haven't found anything at this price point that beats it.

Buy it. Use it. You'll stop second-guessing the purchase within a week.