It is common to find that the average computer desk will have space for at least one flat panel monitor, and as many as four (if not more). The question you may be asking yourself is “How wide should a desk be for two monitors?” The answer is: it depends. Each type of monitor requires different amounts of space to function properly.
Flat Panel Monitors – These are your traditional monitors that sit on a glass or metal surface right on your desk. You can use the flat panel without any stands, which makes them very easy to place anywhere. While they take up less desk space, these types of monitors do not give you the viewing area which full-fledged LCD display can offer. For that reason, people who need to use their monitors more often on the go will choose a set up with one display, like a laptop or desktop, and leave the other displays for other activities. Flat panels are also susceptible to dust and fingerprints, so cleaning them on a regular basis is important if you expect to use your display frequently.
Hinge / Vibrant Screen Monitors – These types of monitors use the “hinges” on their screens. Instead of holding the screen in place like a frame, the hinges allow you to tilt, flip, and position your monitor a little further away from the keyboard or the computer. This gives you a much wider viewing area, and you can easily place the hinges at a comfortable height for you to use. Because the hinges allow the screen to be tilted, you will have a much better view of your desktop. You may also find that the hinge helps keep your computer from hitting your monitor directly in the face when you are typing and keeps the keyboard off your face for good ergonomic reasons.
Over-the-display Monitors – These monitors are installed above your desk. Instead of being mounted below your screen, they are placed directly above it. You will still have a normal desktop, but be able to view your computer display from any angle, thanks to the monitor stand. You can use this type of monitor in the same way as you would an over-the-door PC monitor, only you can view your computer display from a distance. They are convenient, however because you can always get a second view by using a separate computer display if you want to.
Swivel Monitors – These monitors can swivel from left to right, bottom to top, and even sideways. Because you can swivel them, you can move your desk around to ensure that you have access to information while standing at a certain angle. These are more popular with people who are often working from multiple positions while at their desk, such as salespeople or other sales-oriented positions. They provide a lot of flexibility, which means that you might need more than one monitor to meet all of your display needs.
You should now have a pretty good idea as to the proper dimensions for your desk to hold your monitors. If you do not have enough space for two monitors, then consider purchasing additional shelving to hold other items that you need to view on your computer, such as brochures or manuals. It is also a good idea to add some other accessories to your desk, such as filing cabinets, pen holders, or bookcases. The more useful your desk is, the more satisfied you will be with your purchase. Although it may seem like you’re cramming space, you’re really just providing sufficient room for your computer display devices to function properly.