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A monitor stand can solve two simple problems at once: lifting the screen closer to eye level and creating usable space underneath it. The main choice is whether you want a fixed riser that sits on the desk or an adjustable arm that clamps to it.
The options below are based on current Amazon Australia listings and stated size, weight and VESA specifications. I have not personally tested them.
Quick picks
- Best simple riser — Amazon Basics Adjustable Monitor Riser. A low-friction way to add screen height and storage underneath. Check on Amazon Australia.
- Best single monitor arm — Amazon Basics Single Monitor Stand. For compatible VESA monitors when you want height, tilt and rotation adjustment. View on Amazon Australia.
- Best adjustable alternative — HUANUO FlowLift Single Monitor Arm. A gas-spring style arm for compatible displays and desks. See it on Amazon Australia.
1. Amazon Basics Adjustable Monitor Riser — best simple desk riser
Best for: buyers who want more screen height without clamps, VESA plates or installation.
The Amazon Basics riser uses stackable legs for adjustable height and provides storage space underneath. Amazon lists it for monitors, laptops or printers up to the stated weight limit.
Trade-off: it takes up desk surface area and only offers stepped height adjustment. Avoid it if you want the screen to float above the desk or need frequent position changes.
2. Amazon Basics Single Monitor Stand — best desk-mounted arm
Best for: one VESA-compatible monitor where you want height, tilt and rotation adjustment.
This desk-mounted steel arm is listed for most 13- to 30-inch screens within the stated weight limit, with 75×75mm and 100×100mm VESA compatibility plus height, tilt and rotation adjustment.
Trade-off: installation is more involved than placing a riser on the desk. Avoid it if your monitor lacks compatible VESA mounting holes or your desk cannot take the clamp.
3. HUANUO FlowLift Single Monitor Arm — best adjustable alternative
Best for: users who want a gas-spring style single-monitor arm for a compatible 13- to 32-inch display.
The HUANUO listing supports monitors within its stated size and weight range and VESA 75×75mm or 100×100mm mounting patterns. Full-motion adjustment gives more flexibility than a fixed riser.
Trade-off: the monitor and desk both need to meet the mounting requirements. Avoid it if you cannot confirm your monitor weight, VESA pattern or desk compatibility.
What to check before buying
VESA compatibility
Monitor arms normally require 75×75mm or 100×100mm mounting holes. Check the back of your monitor or its manual before ordering.
Monitor weight
Stay inside the manufacturer’s supported weight range. Screen size alone is not enough.
Desk thickness and edge
Clamp-mounted arms need a suitable edge and enough clearance underneath the desk.
Riser footprint
A fixed riser is easier to set up but consumes desk area. Pairing it with a desk mat can help define the remaining keyboard and mouse space.
Laptop setups
If you mainly use a notebook rather than a monitor, see our cheap laptop stand guide instead.
Buyer’s guide
Choose a fixed riser when simplicity and under-screen storage are the priorities. Choose an arm if you want to reclaim desk surface and change height or angle regularly. Before buying any arm, confirm VESA pattern, monitor weight and desk compatibility.
FAQ
Is a monitor riser worth it?
It can be if your monitor sits too low or you want storage underneath. The benefit depends on your current screen height and desk layout.
Do all monitors fit monitor arms?
No. The monitor must fit the arm’s weight range and mounting pattern, and the desk must support the chosen clamp or mounting method.
Is a monitor arm better than a riser?
It offers more adjustability and can free desk space, but it costs more effort to install. A riser is simpler and may be all you need.
Conclusion
For the lowest-friction setup, the Amazon Basics riser is the easy starting point. If you need real positioning control, choose a compatible single-monitor arm instead.
If you are ready to compare current listings, use the Amazon Australia links above. Finish the desk with a wireless mouse or one of our cheap desk lamp picks.