Review: 3M Adjustable Monitor Stand with 4-Port USB Hub
Because of the type of work I do and the hobbies I have, I have a lot of monitor stands. It has to number more than a dozen. In all cases, each of those stands is exactly that, just stands, be they metal or plastic, small or large. And they generally get the job done too. However, I’m always on the lookout for stands that do just a bit more than stably hold up a monitor or other item. These monitor stand “pluses” can be both surprisingly rare and surprisingly expensive. Fortunately, in the case of this 3M adjustable monitor stand, the included 4-Port USB Hub is just about the most logical addition to a quality stand, and it’s not too expensive either.
Typically, I’m OK with just a regular stand, but there’s no denying the value in making more use of the space you’re taking up anyway. Specifically as it relates to me, I have an older HP ENVY 27-b114 AiO PC as one of my secondary systems that I both need to raise up as well as increase the accessibility of its USB ports. This 3M stand offers 3 USB 2.0 (white) ports and 1 USB 3.0 (blue) port as part of its hub from one USB 3.0 cable. Of course, you can still plug the cable into a USB 2.0 port, but won’t get the full speed or bandwidth you can from using a 3.0 port.
The height is adjustable with simple snap-in risers from 2.7 inches to 3.9 inches. There’s 18.4 inches of space between the legs, which take a good bit of force to pop in, but are quite stable once fully inserted. All of this room is handy, of course, and is particularly useful for how I want to use it as you can see in the photos. While I’ll never hit the weight limit of roughly 33 lbs., it’s nice to know it can withstand such a load.
The USB hub itself works well, with no issues in my testing. Throughput is consistent with my expectations for each of the port types.
If you’re looking for a quality monitor stand that does just a bit more, the 3M Adjustable Monitor Stand with 4-Port USB Hub does a good job at a reasonable price for this type of product.
