The devices we own today compared to just a few decades ago have grown exponentially.
From handsets to smartwatches and wireless headphones, our tech helps to streamline increasingly busy lives. Tablet computers are part of the picture.
The first commercially successful tablet may have entered the market in 1989, but the compact, powerful computers have come a long way since then. Now it seems every tech brand worth its salt has a hand in the tablet game, with the superlative for many being Apple's iPad.
The first-ever iPad was announced at the start of 2010 as a multimedia device that worked with the same finger gestures as the iPhone, already familiar to millions. Lighter and thinner than a laptop, it was adopted by Apple fans with glee.
As of June 2024, the iPad is the UK's most popular tablet brand with 56 per cent of 18 and 19-year-olds owning one, per Statista.
The iPad family has expanded to include the Mini, the Air and the Pro, all with varying screen sizes. They may be innovative, but holding them in your hands can be trying - especially if you use one for work.
A solid stand built especially to hold and view your tablet is the answer. Experts agree that the ideal position to work on a screen - be it a desktop monitor, laptop, or tablet - is at eye level to spare yourself from neck and back pain. An adjustable stand means you can prop up your device at the optimum viewing angle.
If you're looking for something to hold your device when you're travelling, look for a stand that can fold down into compact dimensions so you can stow it in your bag when going from A to B.
Luckily, stand seekers will find plenty of choices on the market, from intricate wooden options to earn style points to sleek metal frames that won't add bulk to a busy work desk. We've rounded up the best options below to help make finding your new iPad accessory easier to find.
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MOFT Tablet Stand for Desk
This tower stand is ideal for business travellers and keen flyers, transforming from a slim notebook shape when flat into a sturdy perch for your tablet with a few folds. The magnetic design, inspired by the ancient art of origami, comes with multiple viewing angles for the most comfortable position. It's offered in light grey, jet black and this sienna brown shade.
Buy now £69.99, Amazon
JML Pill-O-Pad Tablet Stand
Partial to taking your tablet to bed? A wide-based stand that can sit steadily on bedding is key. JML's tri-ledge design is wrapped in soft flocking, making it more comfortable to use on beds and sofas. It can be used for phones, e-readers, books and phones as well as tablet computers like iPads. You can use all sides to rest your tech and there's an additional side pocket to stuff pens and paper.
Buy now £19.95, Amazon
Puebco Brass Tablet Stand
Yes, a golden tablet stand is on the excessive end of the scale, but if you're someone who finds joy in the small things - why not? Pairing industrial design with opulent aesthetics, this brushed brass stand offers a fancy place to rest your iPad.
Buy now £39.00, END Clothing
Artisanale London Helmsley Elegant Wood Inlay Stand For iPad And Cookbook
If details matter to you, a steel stand isn't going to cut it. Make your table setting a statement one with this beautiful inlaid wood option from Artisanale London, by way of Not On The High Street. The handmade stand can be set at three angles and brings to life centuries-old techniques for modern life. A lovely gift for avid readers and tech fans alike.
Buy now £125.00, NOTHS
Osco Faux Leather Tablet Holder
Leather-bound desk accessories make your workstation feel that much more executive-level. Osco makes this faux leather design in a suits-anywhere grey with a shelf wide enough to comfortably accommodate an iPad or handset. It sits at an angle for comfortable reading and viewing and can be stuffed into hand luggage to use on trips.
Buy now £10.00, John Lewis
Acrylic Laptop Stand for Desk
Can't stand clutter? An acrylic stand will give the impression that your tablet is floating in mid-air, allowing you to see the rest of your surfaces and making it easier to concentrate on the screen - helpful if you use your device for work.
The adjustable riser comes with a curved platform and weight-bearing base, which means you can use it for propping up your laptop as well as your iPad.
Buy now £43.86, Amazon
Lamicall Adjustable Tablet Stand
Whether you want to read recipes in the kitchen or watch content on the move, this adjustable stand makes a safe and stable home for your precious tablet. It's made with an aluminium alloy which makes it light enough to pack for trips while its low centre of gravity means your gadget will survive small knocks if they happen. Rubber cushions protect the iPad from sliding and scratching.
It also comes in black, grey and pink colour options.
Buy now £18.61, Amazon
KDD Tablet Pillow Holder
So often tech accessories are sterile and grey. Bring some warmth into the equation with this pillow holder, a much more tactile design to curl up next to on the sofa or in bed. The adjustable design is secured into position with Velcro, giving you a comfortable line of sight whether you're standing up, reclining or flopped down on cushions. It even comes with stylus holders to keep them secured and within easy reach. It's fairly compact too, folding flat for bulk-free packing.
Buy now £18.95, Amazon
Proper AV Foldable Laptop Stand and Tablet Riser
If you often switch between a laptop and a tablet, you’ll want a versatile stand that’s suitable for both products without any slippage in sight. This Proper AV Foldable Laptop Stand and Tablet Riser is one of the most budget-friendly foldable laptop stands, has a simple classic design and is lightweight and portable.
The variable height position is particularly useful when using your laptop as a second screen and the maximum height position on this stand has been engineered to allow you to have your laptop screen in an almost vertical position.
Buy now £20.00, Argos
Argos Home Portable Laptop Tray - White
If you’re looking for something sleek and simple to accompany you from desk to bed, this Argos Home Portable Laptop Tray is a great shout. Designed to sit comfortably on your lap, it has adjustable metal legs and a tilting top, so you can set it up to suit you.
There’s even an extra space at the side so you can rest a notepad or all-important coffee. It also folds up and tidies away easily so you can transition from work time to chill time.
Buy now £25.00, Argos
