Start with the display
Confirm the VESA mounting pattern and the display weight without its factory stand. Curved and ultrawide displays can place more leverage on an arm than a conventional screen of the same weight.
Inspect the desk edge
A clamp needs a flat top, a clear underside, and an acceptable thickness. Decorative aprons, metal frames, drawers, and cable trays commonly occupy this zone.
Do not use a weak surface
Thin particleboard, glass, and hollow surfaces may require reinforcement or may be unsuitable. Follow both desk and mount instructions.
Plan the movement envelope
An arm that technically fits can still strike a wall. Include rear clearance and the screen position used for video calls.
Products described as tested were physically evaluated. Specification-based recommendations are labeled and never presented as hands-on tests.