I spent three months testing laptop stands across my home office, a coffee shop circuit, and a couple of co-working spaces to figure out which ones actually hold up under daily use. My goal was simple: find stands that reduce neck strain, stay rock-solid while typing, and suit different budgets and lifestyles.
If you are hunting for the best laptop stands in 2026, you already know the problem. Hunching over a flat laptop for eight hours a day is a recipe for neck pain, shoulder tightness, and poor posture. A good laptop riser lifts your screen to eye level and transforms any desk into a more ergonomic workspace.
Our team compared 10 models ranging from budget travel stands to sit-to-stand aluminum risers. We tested stability, adjustability, cooling performance, and portability. Whether you work from a fixed desk, travel constantly, or want something for presentations, this guide covers every use case. Let me walk you through what we found.
Top 3 Picks for Best Laptop Stands in 2026
Nulaxy All-Aluminum Laptop Stand
- Solid aluminum build
- 22 lb capacity
- Detachable design
- Heat dissipation
ivoler Foldable Aluminum Stand
- 6 angle adjustments
- Ultra portable
- Budget friendly
- Includes carry pouch
tounee Telescopic Sit-Stand Stand
- Height 2.1 to 21 inches
- 360 degree swivel
- 22 lb capacity
- Sit-to-stand capable
Best Laptop Stands in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Nulaxy All-Aluminum Laptop Stand |
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 Gogoonike Foldable Laptop Stand |
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 OPNICE 2-Tier Monitor Stand Riser |
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 HUANUO Monitor Riser |
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 KENTEVIN 360 Rotating Laptop Stand |
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| tounee Telescopic Sit-Stand Stand |
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| ivoler Foldable Aluminum Stand |
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 ElfAnt Telescopic Laptop Stand |
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 Uncaged Ergonomics Swivel Stand |
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 Lamicall 360 Rotating Laptop Stand |
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1. Nulaxy All-Aluminum Laptop Stand – Best Overall Desktop Stand
Nulaxy Full Aluminum Laptop Stand, Stable Support to 22 lbs, Open Cooling
Aluminum and silicone
Holds 22 lbs
10-16 inch laptops
Detachable 3-part design
Pros
- Rock-solid stability with no wobble
- Excellent heat dissipation
- Detachable for easy storage
- Compatible with all laptops 10-16 inches
Cons
- Not height adjustable
- Not foldable for travel
I used the Nulaxy C3 on my main desk for six straight weeks, and it quickly became the stand I reached for every morning. The CNC-cut aluminum feels substantial without being heavy, and the brushed finish matches my MacBook perfectly.
What impressed me most was the stability. At 800 grams with a 22-pound load capacity, my 16-inch laptop sat firmly in place even during aggressive typing sessions. The anti-slip rubber pads on the base and the laptop rest did their job without fail.
The open-back design is where this stand shines for thermal management. My laptop ran noticeably cooler during long video editing sessions compared to sitting flat on the desk. The aluminum itself acts as a passive heat sink, pulling warmth away from the chassis.
Assembly took about 90 seconds. The stand breaks down into three pieces, which is handy if you want to stash it in a drawer. That said, this is not a travel stand. It lives on your desk, and it does that job exceptionally well.
Who should buy this
If you work from a fixed desk and want a stable, attractive aluminum riser that keeps your laptop cool, this is your pick. It is ideal for remote workers and home office setups where the stand stays put.
The fixed height raises the screen to a comfortable eye level for most users sitting at a standard desk. If you need multiple height options or something portable, look elsewhere on this list.
Compatibility with different laptops
This stand works with all laptops from 10 to 16 inches, including MacBook, Dell XPS, HP, Lenovo, and Acer Chromebooks. I tested it with a 13-inch MacBook Air and a 16-inch Dell XPS with zero fitment issues.
The 22-pound capacity means even heavy gaming laptops sit securely. The aluminum arms have a slight lip that prevents the laptop from sliding forward, even when the screen is tilted back.
2. Gogoonike Adjustable Foldable Laptop Stand – Best Budget Portable Stand
Gogoonike Adjustable Laptop Stand for Desk, Metal Laptop Riser Holder
Metal and ABS build
17.6 lb capacity
Foldable design
10-15.6 inch laptops
Pros
- Folds flat for travel
- Height and angle adjustable
- Ventilated cooling holes
- Versatile for sit and stand desks
Cons
- Lighter build may wobble with heavy laptops
- Plastic joints over time
I tossed the Gogoonike stand in my backpack for a two-week trip, and it became my go-to coffee shop companion. At just 199 grams, I barely noticed it was there.
The foldable design collapses flat enough to slide into a laptop sleeve pocket. Setup takes about ten seconds, and the adjustable legs let you dial in height and angle for any surface, from a cafe table to a hotel desk.
The metal platform has multiple ventilation holes that kept my laptop running cool during three-hour writing sessions. The rubber mats and silicone pads held the laptop steady on smooth surfaces.
At this price, there are trade-offs. The construction mixes ABS plastic with metal, and I noticed slight flex when I loaded a heavier 15-inch laptop. For ultrabooks and 13-14 inch machines, it felt perfectly stable.
Travel performance
This stand folds down to roughly the size of a paperback book. I packed it alongside a 14-inch laptop in a standard backpack with no issues. The hinge mechanism held up after dozens of fold cycles during my testing.
If you are a digital nomad or frequent traveler, the combination of low weight and small packed size makes this hard to beat at this price point.
Adjustability range
The legs offer multiple height positions, letting you raise the laptop from a near-flat angle up to a steep viewing height. I used the mid-range setting for typing and the higher setting for screen sharing during video calls.
The angle adjustments are independent of height, so you can fine-tune both dimensions to match your seating position and desk height.
3. OPNICE 2-Tier Monitor Stand Riser – Best Desk Organizer Stand
OPNICE Desk Organizer and Accessories, 2-Tier Computer Monitor Stand Riser with Drawer and 2 Pen Holders, Laptop Stand, Office Desk Accessories for Office Supplies, Black
Metal construction
44 lb capacity
2-tier with drawer
20.5 x 9.5 inches
Pros
- Built-in drawer and pen holders
- Massive 44 lb load capacity
- Maximizes desk storage
- Modern professional design
Cons
- Bulky footprint
- Not portable
- Fixed height
The OPNICE 2-tier stand is not your typical laptop riser. It doubles as a full desk organizer, and after two weeks on my workstation, I wondered how I managed without the storage.
The top shelf holds my laptop or monitor at a comfortable viewing height, while the lower tier provides a roomy drawer and two pen holders. I stashed cables, a notebook, sticky notes, and spare chargers in the drawer alone.
The powder-coated metal construction feels rigid and well-built. At 4.4 pounds with a 44-pound capacity, this stand does not budge. My external monitor sat on it without a hint of wobble.
The design is minimalist and professional. It blends into an office environment without looking like a cheap accessory. The black finish resists scratches and fingerprints during daily use.
Desk space optimization
This stand freed up serious real estate on my desk. The drawer alone replaced a cluttered pencil cup and cable box. The top shelf raised my monitor enough to slide a keyboard underneath when not in use.
If your workspace is tight and you need storage as much as elevation, this is the most practical option on our list.
Weight and stability
The 44-pound load capacity is the highest in this roundup. I placed a 27-inch monitor, a laptop, and a few accessories on the top shelf simultaneously with zero sagging or instability.
The non-slip adjustable feet keep the stand planted even when you are adjusting items on the shelf. This is built for permanent desk placement, not mobility.
4. HUANUO Monitor Riser – Best Simple Vented Riser
HUANUO Monitor Riser for Desk, Laptop Stand with Vented Steel Shelf, Black
Powder-coated steel
44 lb capacity
14.57 x 9.25 inches
Raises screen 3.94 inches
Pros
- Simple 2-minute assembly
- 44 lb steel construction
- Perforated ventilation holes
- Under-shelf storage
Cons
- Fixed single height
- Not foldable
- Basic design
The HUANUO riser is the definition of simple and effective. I assembled it in under two minutes and had it holding my laptop and printer within minutes of unboxing.
This is a single-platform steel riser that lifts your laptop or monitor by 3.94 inches. The powder-coated finish looks clean and resists scratches. At just 1.4 pounds, it is light but surprisingly rigid.
The perforated holes in the platform serve double duty. They provide airflow for cooling and reduce the overall weight of the stand. My laptop ran cooler during extended sessions.
The space underneath the platform is generous enough to store a keyboard, notepad, or cables. I slid my mechanical keyboard under it when I needed extra desk space for paperwork.
Assembly and setup
Two legs connect to the platform with included hardware. No tools required beyond what comes in the box. I had it ready in about 90 seconds.
The simplicity is the selling point here. There are no moving parts to break, no hinges to wear out. It is a fixed-height riser that does one job very well.
Durability over time
The steel construction and five-year warranty tell you this stand is built to last. After weeks of daily use, I saw no signs of wear, bending, or finish chipping.
The 44-pound capacity means it handles heavy monitors and gaming laptops without complaint. If you want a buy-it-for-life riser at a budget price, this is it.
5. KENTEVIN 360 Rotating Laptop Stand – Best for Screen Sharing
Ergonomic Adjustable Laptop Stand for Desk with Phone Holder & 360° Rotation – Foldable Portable Stand for 10-17″ Laptops, MacBook Pro 16″, Gaming Laptops, Tablets | Heavy-Duty & Ventilated Design
ABS and silicone
8 height levels
360 degree rotation
Folds to 0.6 inches
Pros
- Smooth 360-degree rotation
- Built-in phone holder
- Folds flat for portability
- 8 height adjustments
Cons
- ABS plastic not metal
- Lighter feel
- May flex under heavy laptops
The KENTEVIN stand became my favorite for meetings. The 360-degree rotating base lets me spin my laptop around to show a colleague a spreadsheet or design mockup without picking up the machine.
The eight-level height adjustment ranges from 5.5 to 7.0 inches, giving enough range to find a comfortable eye level. I used the highest setting for standing presentations and the lower settings for seated work.
The built-in phone holder is a small detail I did not know I needed. I kept my phone propped up for notifications while working, creating a mini dual-screen setup on the same stand.
The aircraft-grade ABS construction keeps weight down to under a kilogram. It folds to just 0.6 inches thick, making it genuinely portable. The hollow airflow design prevented overheating during my testing.
Rotation mechanism quality
The rotating base moves smoothly with just enough resistance to hold position when you stop. I never had the stand spin unintentionally while typing.
For team collaborations and client demos, this rotation feature alone justifies the purchase. It eliminates the awkward laptop-pivot maneuver during meetings.
Portability for mobile workers
Folding flat to 0.6 inches means this stand fits in any bag. I carried it between home and a co-working space for a week, and the slim profile made packing effortless.
The ABS material is durable but not as premium-feeling as aluminum. If you prioritize the rotation feature and portability over a metal build, this is an excellent choice.
6. tounee Telescopic Sit-Stand Laptop Stand – Best Sit-to-Stand Stand
tounee Telescopic Laptop Stand for Desk with 360° Swivel Base, Sit to Stand, Height Adjustable, Portable Riser Holder for Good Posture, Compatible with MacBook Pro, All Laptops 10-17″-Gray
Aluminum construction
2.1 to 21 inch height
360 swivel base
22 lb capacity
Pros
- Full sit-to-stand range
- Telescoping height adjustment
- 360-degree swivel
- Folds for storage
Cons
- Taller heights can wobble slightly
- Heavier than travel stands
- Premium price
The tounee telescopic stand changed how I work. With a height range from 2.1 to 21 inches, I could switch between sitting and standing throughout the day without buying a standing desk.
The telescoping button mechanism is smooth and secure. I pressed the button, lifted the platform, and it locked at my chosen height. No fumbling, no instability at intermediate positions.
At full extension, the stand reached a near-standing height for me at 5 foot 10. I typed comfortably while standing with my laptop at elbow level. The large aluminum base provided solid support even at maximum height.
The 360-degree swivel base added flexibility for presentations. When I needed to show a colleague my screen, a quick spin handled it without repositioning the entire stand.
Sit-to-stand transition
The telescoping mechanism lets you adjust height in seconds. I alternated between sitting for focused writing and standing for calls and creative work. The 22-pound capacity held my laptop steady at every height.
At maximum extension, there is minor flex when typing aggressively. For normal use, the stability is impressive for a telescoping design.
Build quality and materials
The aluminum construction feels premium and conducts heat away from the laptop effectively. The base is heavier than portable stands, which contributes to its stability at taller heights.
This is the stand I recommend if you want standing desk benefits without buying a full standing desk setup. It folds for storage but is best suited for a semi-permanent desk location.
7. ivoler Foldable Aluminum Laptop Stand – Best Value Travel Stand
ivoler Laptop Stand, Laptop Holder Riser Computer Tablet Stand,Silver
Anodized aluminum
6 angle settings
0.6 lb weight
Folds to 9.31 inches
Pros
- Incredible value under $10
- 6 adjustable angles
- Ultra-light at 150 grams
- Includes carry pouch
Cons
- Lower height range maxes at 5.6 inches
- No 360 rotation
- Less stable with 15+ inch laptops
The ivoler stand is the best value purchase I made during testing. For the price of a coffee, you get a solid aluminum stand with six angle adjustments that folds flat and weighs almost nothing.
The anodized aluminum has a sand-blasted finish that looks far more expensive than it is. I used it in a coffee shop and got compliments on it. The build quality genuinely surprised me.
Six height positions let you raise the laptop from 2.15 to 5.6 inches. I found the middle settings ideal for typing on a standard desk. The higher settings worked well for reading and video calls.
At just 150 grams and folding to 9.31 x 1.74 x 0.89 inches, this is the most portable stand I tested. It comes with a storage pouch that fits in any bag pocket.
Height range and ergonomics
The six-position adjustment covers most seated desk scenarios. The elevation raised my laptop screen to eye level when I sat at my standard 29-inch desk height.
The maximum height of 5.6 inches may not be enough for very tall users or standing setups. For seated work and travel, it hits the sweet spot.
Best use cases
This stand shines as a travel companion. I used it in airports, cafes, and hotel rooms. The lightweight aluminum and compact fold make it effortless to carry.
For 10 to 15.6 inch laptops, it provides excellent stability. Heavier 17-inch gaming laptops may cause some wobble at higher angle settings.
8. ElfAnt Telescopic Laptop Stand – Best for Tall Users
ElfAnt Laptop Stand Adjustable Portable Aluminum for 10″ – 17″ Laptop Tablet
Aluminum construction
9+6 height choices
2.75 to 12.6 inches
Collapsible design
Pros
- Maximum height reaches 12.6 inches
- 15 height combinations
- Collapsible for travel
- Stable even at tall heights
Cons
- Heavier than basic stands
- Takes longer to set up
- No rotation feature
The ElfAnt stand solved a problem I did not realize I had. As a taller user, most stands left me still looking slightly downward. The ElfAnt reaches 12.6 inches, which finally put my screen at true eye level.
The patented collapsible design offers nine height settings combined with six angle adjustments. That is 15 total combinations to find your ideal ergonomic position. I spent time dialing it in and found a setup that eliminated my neck strain completely.
Stability was a pleasant surprise at this height range. Many tall stands wobble, but the ElfAnt held my 14-inch MacBook Pro steady during video calls and typing sessions. The silicone pads grip well on multiple surfaces.
The aluminum construction keeps weight reasonable at 0.45 kg while providing good heat dissipation. It folds down into a compact form with the included travel pouch.
Ergonomic height for tall users
The 12.6-inch maximum height is the tallest on this list. If you are over 6 feet tall or use a high desk, this stand gets your screen where it needs to be without stacking books underneath.
The 9+6 height system means you can fine-tune both the platform height and the tilt angle independently. This level of adjustment is rare at this price.
Setup and portability
The collapsible design takes about 30 seconds to assemble and disassemble. It is more involved than a simple fold, but the trade-off is the superior height range.
The included travel pouch makes it portable, though it is heavier and bulkier than dedicated travel stands like the ivoler. Best for users who need height above all else.
9. Uncaged Ergonomics Swivel Laptop Stand – Best for Presenters
Uncaged Ergonomics Swivel Laptop Stand for Desk, 360 Riser, Arctic Silver
Metal construction
360 degree rotation
Vented design
10.56 x 8.25 inches
Pros
- Smooth 360-degree swivel
- Vented metal for cooling
- Compact footprint
- Good value for ergonomics
Cons
- 90-day warranty only
- Not foldable
- Some flex with heavy laptops
The Uncaged Ergonomics swivel stand is purpose-built for people who present and collaborate. I used it during a week of remote design reviews, and the 360-degree rotation made screen sharing effortless.
The vented metal platform keeps laptops cool without needing fans. During three-hour presentation marathons, my laptop stayed at reasonable temperatures. The raised platform improved my posture immediately.
The compact footprint takes up minimal desk space at 10.56 x 8.25 inches. I appreciated this in a tight home office where every inch counts. The Arctic Silver finish looks professional.
For basic ergonomic needs, this stand delivers. It raises the screen to eye level and reduces glare with tilt adjustments. The build is sturdy enough for daily use, though very heavy laptops may cause some flex.
Swivel performance for collaboration
The rotation is smooth and holds position when you stop. I spun my laptop to show designs to colleagues beside me, and the stand stayed planted on the desk.
For remote workers who do frequent video calls and presentations, this swivel feature is genuinely useful. It beats picking up your laptop every time someone needs to see your screen.
Value and warranty considerations
The 90-day warranty is shorter than most stands on this list. The construction is solid for the price, but if longevity is your top priority, consider options with longer warranties.
For presenters, designers, and anyone who shares their screen regularly, the rotation feature and vented cooling make this a smart pick at a fair price.
10. Lamicall 360 Rotating Laptop Stand – Best Premium Rotating Stand
Lamicall Aluminum Laptop Stand for Desk for MacBook Neo Air Pro 10-17.3”
Aluminum construction
360 degree rotation
Large heavy base
Folds flat
Pros
- Premium aluminum build
- Smooth 360 rotation
- Large stable base
- Excellent heat dissipation
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than travel stands
- Larger footprint
The Lamicall rotating stand is the most polished rotating stand I tested. The all-aluminum construction and large base give it a premium feel that cheaper rotation stands cannot match.
I used this for two weeks on my main desk, and the stability was outstanding. The larger, heavier base means no shaking, sliding, or tipping when typing. My 15-inch laptop sat rock-solid on it.
The 360-degree rotation is buttery smooth. I used it for client presentations and team collaborations, spinning the laptop to share screens without any wobble or resistance issues.
The all-aluminum alloy with ventilation holes kept my laptop noticeably cooler during extended use. The heat dissipation performance was among the best in this roundup, rivaling the Nulaxy for thermal management.
Build quality vs other rotating stands
Compared to the KENTEVIN and Uncaged Ergonomics stands, the Lamicall has a more substantial feel. The aluminum body and larger base translate to noticeably better stability, especially with heavier laptops.
If you want a rotating stand that feels like a permanent desk fixture rather than a portable accessory, this is the one to get.
Compatibility and cooling
This stand works with laptops from 10 to 17.3 inches, the widest range of any rotating stand on our list. I tested it with a 17-inch gaming laptop, and it held steady.
The ventilation holes and aluminum construction provide effective passive cooling. For gaming laptops that generate significant heat, this stand helps maintain airflow without adding noise.
How to Choose the Best Laptop Stand for Your Setup?
Choosing the right laptop stand comes down to how and where you work. After testing 10 models, I identified the key factors that matter most for different setups.
Fixed desk vs travel: the first decision
If your laptop lives on a desk, prioritize stability and cooling over portability. Fixed stands like the Nulaxy C3 and HUANUO riser offer rock-solid platforms with excellent thermal management. They do not fold, but they never wobble.
If you travel or move between locations, foldability is essential. Travel stands like the ivoler and Gogoonike collapse flat and weigh under a pound. You sacrifice some stability and height range, but gain genuine portability.
Height adjustability and ergonomics
The whole point of a laptop stand is getting your screen to eye level. Fixed-height stands work if your desk and chair heights are standard. If they are not, you need adjustability.
For sit-to-stand workflows, look at telescopic stands like the tounee, which reaches 21 inches. For tall users, the ElfAnt maxes out at 12.6 inches. Both let you find the exact height that eliminates neck strain.
Material: aluminum vs steel vs plastic
Aluminum is the sweet spot for most users. It is lightweight, conducts heat away from your laptop, and looks premium. The Nulaxy, ivoler, and Lamicall all use aluminum effectively.
Steel construction, like the HUANUO riser, offers maximum durability and weight capacity but adds bulk. ABS plastic, used in the KENTEVIN, keeps weight and cost down but feels less premium and provides no passive cooling.
Cooling and ventilation
Heat management matters more than most people realize. Laptops that run hot throttle performance and shorten component lifespan. Look for open-back designs, ventilation holes, or aluminum construction that acts as a heat sink.
The worst stands for cooling are solid plastic platforms with no airflow. If you use a gaming laptop or do intensive tasks like video editing, prioritize stands with maximum ventilation.
Laptop size and weight compatibility
Always check the size range. Some stands max out at 15.6 inches, which excludes larger gaming laptops. The Lamicall and KENTEVIN accommodate up to 17.3 inches, the widest ranges on our list.
Weight capacity matters too. Stands rated for 22 pounds or more handle any laptop without issue. Lighter stands with 10-15 pound capacity may flex under heavier machines.
Do you need 360-degree rotation?
Rotation is a feature most people do not know they want until they have it. If you collaborate, present, or share your screen regularly, a rotating base like the Lamicall or tounee saves you from physically moving your laptop.
If you work solo and never share your screen, skip rotation and spend your budget on better build quality or adjustability instead.
External keyboard and mouse considerations
Once you raise your laptop to eye level, typing on the built-in keyboard becomes ergonomically wrong. You will need an external keyboard and mouse. Factor this into your setup and budget.
Some stands, like the OPNICE 2-tier and HUANUO riser, include storage space underneath for stashing your keyboard when not in use. This is a small but meaningful convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do laptop stands improve posture?
Yes, laptop stands improve posture by raising your screen to eye level, which prevents the forward head tilt that causes neck and back strain. For full ergonomic benefit, pair the stand with an external keyboard and mouse so your shoulders relax and your wrists stay straight while typing.
Do you need an external keyboard with a laptop stand?
In most cases, yes. When a laptop stand raises the screen to eye level, the built-in keyboard sits too high for comfortable typing. Using an external keyboard and mouse keeps your elbows at 90 degrees and your wrists in a neutral position, which is the correct ergonomic setup.
Are laptop stands worth it?
Laptop stands are worth it for anyone who uses a laptop for more than an hour or two daily. They reduce neck pain, improve airflow to keep your laptop cool, and create a more professional workspace. Budget options under $20 provide most of the ergonomic benefits of premium models.
What is the best laptop stand for travel?
The best travel laptop stands are foldable, lightweight, and compact. Models like the ivoler foldable aluminum stand weigh under a pound and collapse to fit in a backpack pocket. Look for stands that include a carry pouch and fold flat for maximum portability.
Can you use a laptop stand on any desk?
Most laptop stands work on any flat desk surface. Fixed risers and aluminum stands are universal. For standing desks, telescopic stands like the tounee provide additional height range. Avoid stands with sharp edges on glass desks, and always check that the stand footprint fits your available desk space.
Final Thoughts on the Best Laptop Stands
After testing 10 laptop stands across desks, coffee shops, and co-working spaces, a few clear winners emerged. For a fixed desk setup, the Nulaxy All-Aluminum Stand delivers the best combination of stability, cooling, and build quality. For travelers, the ivoler foldable stand offers unbeatable value in a tiny package.
If you want to switch between sitting and standing, the tounee telescopic stand is the most versatile option. And for presenters who need screen sharing, the Lamicall 360 rotating stand provides the smoothest rotation with premium build quality.
The best laptop stands in 2026 all share one thing: they get your screen to eye level and keep your machine cool. Pick the one that matches your workspace and workflow, pair it with an external keyboard, and your neck will thank you.