Max. screen size
The largest laptop screen size that the stand is guaranteed to be compatible with. For comparison: the smallest netbooks have a diagonal of 10 –
12 ", ultrabooks are somewhat larger — up to
14" ; among classic laptops, 13" corresponds to the most compact models,
15 —
16" — medium format,
17" — large, and
18.4" is actually the "ceiling" for modern laptops.
Usually, the maximum diagonal indicated in the characteristics corresponds to the size for which the stand was originally designed. However the vast majority of models are able to work with smaller laptops, but this point should be clarified separately. In addition, you should not buy a device that differs markedly in maximum diagonal from your laptop — for example, an 18" stand is unlikely to be convenient for a 12" netbook.
Connection to a laptop
— USB A. A classic, widely accepted USB port, which has recently been losing ground to the more advanced USB C port.
— USB C. This connector differs from the classic, full-sized USB by being much smaller in size, and also features a reversible design, allowing the plug to be inserted either way.
USB А
Number of USB ports provided in the stand's design. For more details, see "Additional —
USB Hub".
The more such ports the stand provides, the more peripheral devices can be simultaneously connected through it to the laptop. At the same time, it's worth considering that all the hub ports are powered by a single USB connector on the laptop and share the USB power equally. Thus, for "power-hungry" peripherals (like external hard drives without a separate power supply), there might not be enough power when connected through a hub with
3 – 4 ports.
Folded size
Dimensions of the stand when folded. First of all, the convenience of transportation depends on this: if you plan to carry the product along with a laptop, you should pay attention to ensuring that the bag (case, backpack ...) has the right amount of space.
Note that the height of many models in the folded state is rather small, so manufacturers may not indicate it in the characteristics, limited only by the length and width.
Table top/platform size
The size of the surface intended for the direct placement of a laptop. This parameter allows you to fairly accurately assess how the stand is suitable for your device — after all, even laptops with the same diagonal can vary slightly in length / width.
Max. table height
The maximum height that the worktop can rest on in the base table (see "Type"). In models that do not have height adjustment (see "Additional"), the maximum height is at the same time a regular working one, and it is worth choosing taking into account how much such dimensions suit you. If there is an adjustment, then the greater the maximum height, the more versatile the stand is, the less risk that in a given situation its height may not be enough; at the same time, this versatility increases the size and weight.
Weight
The total weight of the stand. You should pay attention to this parameter first of all if you plan to constantly carry the stand with you, along with a laptop — here light weight can be a noticeable advantage. But if you are looking for an option purely for home use, there is most often no need to pursue low weight: other things being equal, it can be a sign of a small thickness of materials and, as a result, relatively low reliability. In addition, a more massive stand is more stable, it is more difficult to budge or knock over by accidental touch.
