Achieving a minimalist desk setup with an extra screen is not as easy as it appears. You need to plan it out and have an eye for detail to create the perfect, sleek, and clutter-free workstation, elevating your productivity levels without stressing you out. We can hear you thinking: How do I build a minimalist desk setup with an extra screen? No worries; this blog will shed light on the ways to incorporate your laptop with an external screen without damaging anything.
Besides, if you are interested in purchasing an external monitor, get an extra screen for laptop to enhance your workflow with minimal mistakes.
Desk Of Your Choice
The foundation of this project starts from the desk of your choice. You must select a simple, clean design consisting of a spacious surface area, but without drawers or unnecessary compartments, for that matter, as that can also encourage clutter to accumulate. For instance, you can buy a solid wood top with sleek metal legs, or a desk featuring white lamination with a minimalist frame. Apart from these options, you can go for a standing desk to shower you with ergonomic benefits and the liberty of switching positions throughout your work.
Integrate Your Screens: Laptop and External Monitor
The answer to your question regarding how to integrate your laptop with an external monitor lies in strategic positioning and managing your cables:
Monitor Arm
Get yourself a VESA-compatible monitor arm that is ideal for setting up a minimalist dual-screen layout. Why the emphasis? It lifts up your monitor from the surface, freeing a considerable amount of desk space and boosting your posture with a tidier look. Your dual monitor arm can hold your laptop vertically alongside your external monitor, leading to a clear visual flow.
Laptop Stand
Are you not using a monitor arm to hold your laptop? A vertical laptop stand is a must. This enables your laptop to be placed upright or sit closely, consuming minimal space and staying connected to your external display. Hence, select a stand that matches the theme of your monitor and desk. Otherwise, your workspace will look really out of place.
Tackle Cables
As mentioned above, cables are also part of the plan, and tackling them is crucial in the following ways:
Cable Management Trays/Sleeves
Search for adhesive cable clips, ties, or a nice management tray to mount underneath your desk. Your power, display, and USB cables should be routed tidily beneath your desk or down a single leg.
Wireless Peripherals
Choose the wireless version of the mouse, headphones, and keyboard you have been using. This eradicates the hassle of controlling and entangling cables from these sources. Hence, search for devices designed with multiple connectivity, so you can easily switch between your laptop and other devices if necessary.
USB-C Hubs/Docks
Check the number of ports your laptop has. If there are limited ports, use a single USB-C hub or dock that can accommodate multiple connections, such as power, display, and peripherals related to the USB, into one cable. Tuck the hub discreetly or attach it under your desk.
Important Accessories
When you are aiming for a minimalist setup, everything on your desk should serve a purpose and have an aesthetic element as well:
Keyboard and Mouse
Pick a slim and wireless keyboard and a minimalist mouse. You can buy mechanical keyboards, but make sure their design matches your minimalist arrangement.
Audio
Grab those wireless headphones. However, if you want speakers to fill the need, choose small, bookshelf speakers or a soundbar, which you can merge into your minimalist world.
Conclusion
Building a minimalist desk, and that too with an extra screen, is not challenging. Get a monitor armrest or a laptop stand, a tray for holding cables, and other essential accessories, but make sure they are minimalist and aesthetically pleasing.