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When you’re planning a dual monitor setup, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to buy two separate single monitor arms or one dedicated dual arm. Both approaches work, but they serve different desk setups, budgets, and flexibility needs. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice for your workspace.
Can You Use Two Single Monitor Arms Instead of One Dual Arm?
Yes, absolutely. Two single monitor arms will hold two monitors just as effectively as a dual arm, assuming your desk has the space and structure to support two clamp or grommet points. The main consideration is desk real estate: each single arm requires its own mounting point, typically 2-4 inches of desk edge or a drilled grommet hole. If your desk is narrow, has a shallow lip, or already has other hardware mounted, fitting two separate arms can be tight.
Single arms also give you complete independence. Each monitor can move, tilt, and swivel without affecting the other, which is helpful if you frequently adjust screen angles throughout the day. However, cable management can become messier since you’re dealing with two separate arm structures rather than one unified frame. You may want to consider cable management solutions to keep things tidy.
What Are the Advantages of a Dedicated Dual Monitor Arm?
A dual monitor arm mounts both screens to a single base, saving desk space and simplifying installation. You only need one clamp or grommet point, which is ideal for smaller desks, desks with limited edge access, or setups where you want to preserve mounting real estate for other accessories.
Dual arms also tend to look cleaner. The two monitor mounts share a single pole or crossbar, which centralizes cables and reduces visual clutter. Many models include integrated cable channels that guide both monitor cables down a shared path. If aesthetics and a streamlined look matter to you, a dual monitor arm (affiliate link) is often the neater choice.
The tradeoff is adjustability. While both monitors can still move independently on most dual arms, the range of motion is sometimes more limited compared to two fully separate single arms, especially when it comes to height differences or extreme angles.
Which Option Costs Less?
Generally, one dual monitor arm costs less than buying two separate single arms from the same brand. A quality single arm typically runs $80–$150, so two would cost $160–$300. A comparable dual arm usually falls in the $120–$200 range. The savings aren’t huge, but if budget is tight, the dual arm is usually the more economical pick.
That said, if you already own one single monitor arm and want to add a second screen later, buying a second single arm lets you scale gradually without replacing your existing hardware.
What If Your Monitors Are Different Sizes or Weights?
This is where two single arms often shine. If one monitor is 27 inches and the other is 24 inches—or if one is significantly heavier—you can choose arms with different weight capacities tailored to each screen. Dual arms, on the other hand, are designed for symmetry and typically work best when both monitors are similar in size and weight. Mismatched monitors can still work on a dual arm, but you may need to adjust tension settings more carefully to keep everything balanced.
Which Setup Is Easier to Install and Adjust Later?
Dual arms are faster to install since you’re only mounting one base. Two single arms mean two separate installations, which doubles the time and requires more precise placement to ensure the monitors end up at the same height and alignment.
However, once installed, single arms are easier to reconfigure. If you decide to rearrange your desk, move one monitor to a different position, or swap out a screen, you can adjust or remove one arm without affecting the other. With a dual arm, both monitors are tied to the same base, so changes are more involved.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your desk layout, monitor specs, and how often you tweak your setup. If you value flexibility and have the desk space, two single arms offer maximum independence. If you prefer simplicity, a cleaner look, and easier cable routing, a dual arm is the smarter pick.
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