I have never been a fan of using a dock for my laptop. Instead, I have always preferred using an external monitor and a laptop stand to set up my MacBook as a second screen. This setup has worked well for me for the past seven years, and I had no intention of changing it. However, when Apple released the M3-powered 15-inch MacBook Air with support for two external monitors, I knew I would have to try out a vertical laptop stand to properly test it, as my desk could not accommodate it lying flat.
Vertical laptop stands are not known for being aesthetically pleasing, and I was hesitant to add a clunky stand to my workspace. That’s why I was excited when Twelve South offered me the opportunity to test their BookArc Flex. This beautifully crafted laptop stand has a minimalist design that blends in seamlessly on my desk and is compatible with a wide range of MacBook models.
While I had high hopes for the BookArc Flex, I was disappointed to find that its functionality did not live up to my expectations. The stand has a unique design with metal arcs on each side and a flexible rubber cradle in between. The idea is that the weight of the MacBook locks the arcs against the lid and base of the machine, elevating it for improved airflow and heat dissipation.
In theory, using the BookArc Flex should be simple. However, I found that getting my 15-inch MacBook Air to securely sit in the stand was a challenge. Despite following the instructions to place the laptop hinge down, I still struggled to prevent it from toppling over with the slightest movement. I had to be extremely cautious around the stand, as any accidental bump or nudge could cause the MacBook to fall and potentially damage both the laptop and my desk accessories.
Overall, while the BookArc Flex has a sleek design, its lack of stability and sensitivity to movement make it a risky choice for incorporating into your workspace. I found myself constantly on edge while using it, fearing that any slight motion could result in a disastrous accident. In the end, I decided that the potential risks outweighed the aesthetic appeal of the stand, and I opted to stick with my current setup instead.
