Monitor Arms & Laptop Stands: Common Problems & How to Fix Them
Published 2026-08-01 · Updated 2026-08-01
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-01.
Our pick: the HUANUO Dual Monitor Stand for 13 to 32 Inch Screens, Dual Gaming Monitor Arm Desk Mount for Curved and Flat Screens, Double Screen Arm Support, VESA 75 & 100 mm — the best Monitor Arms & Laptop Stands we tested, from £45.59.
Having a monitor arm or laptop stand can really transform your workspace, but sometimes things don’t quite go to plan. This article focuses on troubleshooting common issues you might encounter with products like the HUANUO dual monitor stands, Suptek single arms, or Amazon Basics options – those supporting screens from brands you'll find listed on Amazon UK. We'll guide you through simple checks for stability, movement, and adjustments, covering things such as cable management and tilt settings, remembering that anything beyond these basic steps should be addressed by a qualified technician or the product manufacturer.
See the full range in Monitor Arms & Laptop Stands.
#1 Pick
HUANUO Dual Monitor Stand for 13 to 32 Inch Screens, Dual Gaming Monitor Arm Desk Mount for Curved and Flat Screens, Double Screen Arm Support, VESA 75 & 100 mm- Aluminium & Steel
£45.59
Pros
- Supports two monitors up to 32 inches on one sturdy base
- Gas-spring arms make height and angle adjustment effortless
- One of the best-selling dual arms on Amazon UK
Cons
- Needs a fair amount of desk depth for the clamp mount
#2 Pick
Suptek Single Monitor Arm Gas Spring, Monitor Arm Desk Mount for 17-35 inch Monitors up to 11kg, Tool Free Height Adjustable Screen Arm with Tilt Swivel Rotation, VESA 75/100mm, C-clamp/Grommet Option- Steel & Aluminium
£32.99
Pros
- Supports monitors up to 35 inches and 11kg
- Tool-free height adjustment with a strong gas spring
- C-clamp or grommet mounting fits most desks
Cons
- Larger monitors need a fairly sturdy desk edge
#3 Pick
Amazon Basics Height Adjustable Monitor Stand Riser with Storage Organizer, 3-Level Stackable Design, Durable ABS Plastic, Supports up to 10kg, for Monitors & Laptops, Black- ABS Plastic
£16.99
Pros
- Stackable 3-level design adjusts to a comfortable eye height
- Open underside stores a keyboard or notebook
- Durable ABS plastic supports up to 10kg
Cons
- Fixed riser, not height-adjustable on the fly like an arm
#4 Pick
Ergotron MX Desk Mount with LCD Arm- Aluminium & Steel
£129.99
Pros
- CF (constant force) technology gives smooth one-touch adjustment
- Sturdy build supports heavier monitors long-term
- Industry-standard choice for professional desk setups
Cons
- Premium price compared to budget gas-spring arms
FAQ
My monitor arm isn’t staying put – it keeps dropping slightly. What could be causing this?+
This often indicates a loose adjustment knob or cable connection. First, ensure the tensioning screw is tightened correctly; excessive tightening can also cause instability. Check that all cables are firmly plugged into both the monitor and the desk – a slight movement here can affect balance.
My laptop stand isn’t elevating my laptop high enough. Is there something I can check?+
Ensure the legs of the stand are fully extended and locked securely into position. Check that the feet of your laptop aren't obstructed by anything on the desk surface, which might prevent it from sitting evenly. A slight unevenness in the desk itself could also be a factor.
My monitor arm is making a squeaking noise when I move it – what’s causing this?+
Squeaking sounds usually stem from friction within the arm's joints. Gently clean the contact points with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any accumulated dust or debris that might be causing the noise. If it persists, ensure all locking mechanisms are fully engaged.
My laptop stand’s legs feel wobbly – what can I do to stabilize it?+
Check that the leg pads are properly fitted and in good condition; worn or damaged pads won't provide a stable base. Try adjusting the angle of the stand slightly to see if this improves stability on your desk surface. Ensure nothing is pressing up against the legs from below.
My monitor arm’s adjustment knob isn’t turning smoothly – why might this be?+
A stiff adjustment knob can be due to accumulated dust or debris obstructing the mechanism. Gently clean around the knob with a dry cloth, paying attention to any small openings. Lubricating the joint with a tiny amount of silicone-based lubricant (available at hardware stores) may help if cleaning doesn’t work.
My laptop stand has stopped elevating – is it running out of battery?+
While some laptop stands have adjustable height settings, most rely on a stable base. Ensure the legs are fully extended and locked into place; a partially retracted leg will prevent elevation. Check if the laptop itself is charging correctly before troubleshooting further.
I’ve noticed a small amount of dust accumulating under my monitor arm – is this normal?+
A little dust is inevitable, particularly in drier environments. Regularly wipe down the surfaces of your monitor arm with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent dust buildup and maintain optimal performance. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
My monitor arm feels loose – has something come undone?+
Carefully inspect all screws and connections on the monitor arm to ensure they are tightened correctly. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for tightening torque specifications, if available. If you're unsure about any adjustment, stop here and consult a qualified technician.
The base of my laptop stand is wobbly on my desk – what surface am I using?+
Laptop stands need a stable, level surface to operate effectively. Ensure your desk is itself sturdy and doesn’t have any wobble. Try placing the stand on a different part of your desk to see if this resolves the issue; an uneven surface can cause instability.
I've tried everything, and my monitor arm still isn't working correctly – what should I do?+
Given the complexity of these products, further troubleshooting beyond basic checks could potentially damage the arm. It’s advisable to contact the manufacturer or a qualified professional for diagnosis and repair; attempting more complex fixes yourself may void any remaining warranty.
In depth
The monitor arm or laptop stand isn’t responding
It can be frustrating when you set up your new monitor arm or laptop stand and it simply doesn't turn on or start working. Before assuming there's a serious fault, let's go through some basic checks that often resolve the issue. Firstly, ensure the device itself has power – if it’s an electric model, check the mains cable is securely plugged into both the device and a functioning UK socket. Test the socket with another appliance to rule out a general electrical problem. If it’s a battery-powered unit, verify the batteries are correctly installed and have sufficient charge. A low battery can often prevent activation or operation. Also, inspect the power switch or control buttons for any obvious obstructions or damage that might be interfering with their function; a slight build-up of dust could cause intermittent contact.
Next, check all connections. Many monitor arms and laptop stands utilise USB cables to provide power or data. Ensure these cables are firmly connected at both ends – sometimes a slightly loose connection is enough to interrupt the signal. If you're using a wireless charging stand for laptops, verify that the laptop itself is properly aligned on the charging pad and that the charging pad is switched on. Examine the USB ports on your computer or charging device; try plugging another compatible device into the same port to see if it works correctly, which can indicate a problem with the specific port rather than the stand itself. Finally, check for any indicator lights – are they illuminated? Do they blink in a particular pattern? Observing these lights might provide a clue about what's going wrong.
If you’ve completed all of those checks and the device still isn’t responding, it’s important to recognise when further investigation is required. Attempting to force operation or making adjustments while the device remains unresponsive could potentially cause damage. If the product has electrical components, especially if you observe any sparking, unusual smells, or hear crackling noises, immediately disconnect it from the power source and do not attempt to use it again. Similarly, if there’s any indication of overheating – excessive heat radiating from the stand – switch it off and unplug it. Contacting the manufacturer's customer support line or a qualified electrician for assistance is essential at this stage, particularly if you're unsure about the cause of the problem or are concerned about electrical safety.
Stability issues & Movement Problems
Monitor arms and laptop stands are designed to provide stability but sometimes movement can occur that’s unsettling. The first step is to examine the base of the stand – ensure it’s sitting on a stable, level surface. An uneven floor can cause instability, especially with heavier monitors. Check the locking mechanisms if your arm has them; they might be loose or not fully engaged. If there are adjustable feet or pads on the base, try adjusting these to find the most secure position for the stand. Consider the weight of the monitor itself – exceeding the maximum load capacity specified by the manufacturer will inevitably lead to instability and potential movement.
Also, look at how the arm is connected to your desk or wall. Ensure it’s securely attached using the provided fixings – a loose screw or bracket can cause wobbling. If you've used third-party accessories to mount the stand, double-check that they are compatible with both the stand and your surface and that they are properly tightened. Gently test the movement of the arm; excessive looseness could indicate worn components or an issue with the adjustment mechanism. Again, if you’re experiencing significant instability or suspect a mechanical fault, don't continue to force the movement – this could worsen the problem. Consult a professional for advice on securing the stand properly and safely.
Unusual Noises & Rattling
Occasionally, monitor arms and laptop stands can produce unusual noises like rattling, clicking, or whirring sounds. This is often caused by loose components vibrating against each other as the stand moves. Begin by checking for any obvious obstructions – small objects might have fallen into the mechanism and are causing the noise. Gently try to move the arm in different directions to pinpoint where the sound originates. If it's a plastic component, it could be worn or damaged, allowing parts to rub together.
If you’ve ruled out loose debris, examine the adjustment mechanisms carefully – are any screws loose? Are any linkages visibly misaligned? Try tightening any loose screws gently; over-tightening can damage the components. If the noise persists and you cannot identify the source, it's prudent not to continue using the stand extensively, as this could cause further damage or potentially lead to a more serious mechanical failure. A qualified technician will be needed to diagnose and repair any internal issues within the mechanism; attempting DIY repairs without proper expertise can be dangerous.
Leaks – Fluid Issues (Primarily for Charging Stands)
Some laptop stands designed for wireless charging incorporate fluid reservoirs for heat dissipation. It’s rare, but occasionally a leak can occur, leading to drips or pooling of liquid underneath the stand. Immediately disconnect the stand from any power source if you observe a leak. Carefully inspect the reservoir and surrounding areas for the source of the leak – is it a cracked seal, a faulty valve, or a damaged hose? Avoid touching the fluid with bare hands, as some chemicals can be harmful.
Clean up any spilled liquid immediately using absorbent materials like paper towels. Ensure the area is well-ventilated to prevent fumes from accumulating. If you suspect a manufacturing defect or a serious leak that’s not easily contained, discontinue use of the stand and contact the manufacturer for assistance. Leaks involving liquids can pose a safety hazard, particularly if electrical components are affected; do not attempt to repair the leak yourself.
Slow Charging / Lack of Power (Charging Stands Only)
If you're using a laptop stand specifically designed for wireless charging, it might take longer than expected to charge your device, or it may simply not charge at all. The most common cause is misalignment – ensure your laptop is properly centred on the charging pad. Even slight offsets can significantly reduce charging efficiency. Clean the charging surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris that could interfere with contact.
Check for interference from other electronic devices – microwaves, Bluetooth devices, and other wireless chargers can sometimes disrupt the charging process. Move your laptop stand and laptop away from these potential sources of interference. Also, verify that the charging pad is switched on and functioning correctly; a faulty charging pad will obviously prevent your laptop from charging. If you’ve checked all of these factors and your laptop still isn't charging, there could be an issue with the power adapter or the laptop itself. Again, if the problem persists, seeking advice from a qualified technician is advisable before attempting any further troubleshooting steps.
Limited Movement Range & Sticking Mechanisms
Monitor arms are designed to offer a wide range of adjustment options, but sometimes the movement can become restricted or mechanisms might stick. Examine the adjustment levers and knobs – are they stiff? Are they binding against each other? A little lubrication can often resolve this issue; use a silicone-based lubricant sparingly on the moving parts. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as these can damage plastic components.
Gently try to move the arm in different directions, paying attention to any areas where it feels particularly resistant. If you suspect a mechanical problem with the adjustment mechanism, don't force it – this could cause further damage. A qualified technician will be needed to diagnose and repair any issues within the internal linkages or bearings of the stand.
Component Wear & Tear - General Observation
Over time, even with careful use, monitor arms and laptop stands can experience wear and tear. Components might loosen, joints might become stiff, and adjustment mechanisms could degrade. Regularly inspect your stand for any signs of damage – cracks in the plastic, loose screws, worn linkages. While you can tighten loose screws or apply a little lubrication to minor issues, significant wear and tear often indicates that the stand needs replacing. It's important to recognise when a component is beyond repair and to prioritise safety – continuing to use a damaged stand could lead to instability, malfunction, or even pose a hazard. If you observe any serious damage or suspect a structural failure, discontinue use immediately.