How A Stacked Monitor Setup Increases Workplace Efficiency

While no size fits all or there is no optimum method suits everyone, a stacked monitor setup is increasingly used for various work settings. There are numerous benefits of using a multi-screen laptop and monitor setup, and hence many organizations are encouraging this change. Even though a stacked dual monitor setup or even a three monitor setup costs you more, there will likely be a lot more benefit in the long run.

Thus rather than just considering it an added expenditure, one must know how a dual-stacked monitor setup adds to your work efficiency and increases productivity. In this article, we will review all the benefits of using an ultra-wide stacked monitor setup and buying the best monitor arms for an ergonomic workstation.

How to Set Up a Stacked Monitor Configuration

1. Choose the Right Monitors

Selecting the right monitors is crucial for a successful setup:

• Size and Resolution: Ensure both monitors have similar sizes and resolutions for a consistent viewing experience.
• VESA Compatibility: Check that your monitors are VESA mount compatible for easy installation.

2. Select a Sturdy Monitor Mount

A reliable monitor mount is essential for safety and ergonomics:

• Dual Monitor Mount: Opt for a dual monitor mount specifically designed for stacked setups. Ensure it supports the weight and size of your monitors.
• Adjustability: Look for mounts with adjustable height, tilt, and rotation to customize your setup for optimal comfort.

3. Configure Your Desk Space

Proper desk arrangement enhances usability:

• Desk Size: Ensure your desk has enough space to accommodate the base of the monitor mount and provide stability.
• Cable Management: Use cable clips or channels to organize and hide cables for a clean and clutter-free workspace.

4. Adjust Display Settings

Once your hardware is set up, configure the display settings:

• Windows:
  • Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings."
  • Arrange the monitors by dragging them to match your physical setup.
  • Adjust the resolution and orientation for each monitor.
• Mac:
  • Go to "System Preferences" and select "Displays."
  • Click on the "Arrangement" tab and position the displays accordingly.
  • Adjust the resolution and other settings as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Benefits of a Vertical Stacked Monitor Setup

Using a multi-monitor setup is a common practice, but one should be aware of the diversity they can bring with a multi-monitor setup. There are many ways to improve the workstation's efficiency, from having a monitor side of the desk to enjoying a wide 3 monitor mount setup.

Whether you go for a vertical monitor mount set up or even a wide horizontal monitor setup, here are some benefits of creating a user-friendly and ergonomic setup on your work desk.

They save Space

The major reason people would use a stacked version rather than a horizontal version is to save space. Vertical mounted monitors save you a lot of space by reducing the utilized footprint on your desk. Since not all of us have spare rooms to dedicate to the home office, nor can we invest in corner desks that are an optimum solution to efficiency, a stacked monitor will minimize the surface area of the desk covered.

Increased Landscape

Productivity would be the next argument. With stacked systems, it's customary to utilize super ultra-wide monitors (34+ inches) because you get 1.5 panels on the bottom level and an extra utility screen on top. The top panel will most likely display dashboard information and Spotify and other infrequently used apps.

Wider Applications

Horizontally stacked monitor setups are ideal for flat-screened monitors because of the curvature covering the peripheral vision. But for those who need curved screens and a multi-monitor setup, a vertically stacked version seems like a fair choice. This solution also seems feasible for gamers, and you can opt for popular curved screen monitors.

Inexpensive Investment

Though monitor screens come no cheap for productivity, you get it at a smaller price to pay. This investment is one-time and will save you money in the long run and time. The time spent switching the tabs and the time taken for a screen to load each time you open a new window combined make a substantial difference in the overall day. Many studies suggest that using a multi-screen setup can boost productivity by 40%.

Reduced Neck Strain

Multi-monitor setups that are mounted properly reduce the neck and shoulder strain you experience. They are ideal for encouraging controlled movement, and you can easily get a wider working area without having to move your neck a bit. Just make sure you follow the proper guidelines for setting up a multi-screen for maximum efficiency, which is also covered below.

Better Control over Screen Sharing

It's tough to refer to anything else on your screen while sharing a screen and making a presentation on Zoom without it getting in the way or allowing others in the room to see it.

You can choose which screen to share if you have a second monitor. The other screen, which is concealed from participants, can then be used for anything from meeting notes to keeping a watch on any urgent emails.

How to Achieve a Stacked Monitor Setup

If your stacked monitors are not mounted properly, you are likely to suffer from various issues such as neck strain, confusion and chaos while working. Hence when it comes to creating the right setup, there are two main factors involved: the viewing distance and the position of monitors from each other and the screen.

How to Set the Viewing Distance

The viewing distance varies or depends on the type and quality of your screen. You must also consider the viewing ability of the person using the screen and the size of the characters that appear on the screen since a larger viewing distance means a lesser strain on the eyes as there is no direct or close hit of reflection on the eyes.

But to maintain a greater distance with clear visibility means you must adjust the size of characters accordingly. This has a particular disadvantage: the screen becomes less capable of holding more information, and you need to scroll down.

This issue is addressed when you use a dual-screen setup since the character height isn't as large as a single screen; thus, the need to distance the screen from the viewer becomes less valid. Common criteria to judge the right placement is that your screen and the viewer must have a distance of an arm's length in between.

How to Set the Viewing Angle

The need to set a proper viewing angle increases further in the dual monitor setup to prevent even the slightest strain, which can become harmful when repeated many times. For a single screen, the viewing angle should be 0 to 15 degrees at a time. However, when we talk about dual-screen, the viewing angle also increases since the landscape increases. The right viewing angle is between 0 to 30 degrees for smooth neck movements for a multi-monitor setup or a stacked monitor setup.

Drawbacks of a Stacked Monitor Setup

One major disadvantage is that you'll need to purchase a vertical monitor arm. It's not difficult to find, but if you have a super ultra-wide on the bottom level, you'll need a monitor arm that can hold the monitor in place. Moreover, some people also find it tiring to tilt their heads upwards when using a stacked monitor setup, but this isn't as big of an issue as you might think.

Stacked monitor setups have become increasingly popular among professionals and gamers alike. Whether you’re looking to enhance your productivity or create an immersive gaming environment, a stacked monitor setup can be the key to achieving your goals. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the benefits, setup process, and tips for optimizing your stacked monitor setup