I’m not here to convince you that you need a laptop stand—check out that article for that discussion—but if you’re planning to invest a significant amount in an iOS device, it deserves a worthy platform that highlights its artistic design. As of February 2024, Apple has over 2.2 billion active devices, so chances are you own at least one. If Apple were to create laptop stands, they would likely resemble those from Rain Design.
Renowned for their sleek elegance, Apple devices find a perfect match in Rain Design’s offerings. Each stand seamlessly blends into the background, avoiding any overwhelming clutter on your workspace. Most products in their lineup range from $25 to $65 (with the exception of the $319 iGo monitor stand) and feature finishes reminiscent of iOS devices—silver, gold, space gray, black, midnight blue, and starlight (the champagne-like shade)—along with most designs accommodating a cable outlet.
While Apple stocks stands from Twelve South, I prefer those from Rain Design. They tend to be slightly more affordable and come in a broader selection of styles and colors. Their sturdiness ensures they will still be reliable even when you upgrade to a newer MacBook model.
Unyielding Stability
Out of their lineup, the mStand is my top choice. Crafted from a solid aluminum plate, this stand boasts a wide base (7.5 x 10 inches) that provides remarkable stability. I love the thoughtful addition of a slot underneath where I can tuck my external keyboard and mouse when they’re not in use. If you frequently collaborate in-person, the mStand360 model features a swivel base. There are also variants of the mStand available for iPhones and iPads.
Photograph: Rain Design
For those seeking a bit more versatility, the iLevel2 ($65) allows you to adjust the height from 5.4 to 7.9 inches using a simple front slider. The mTower ($50) offers a vertical solution that lets you store your MacBook upright, freeing up crucial desk space—perfect if you’re connecting to an external monitor. And if you’re the type to plan a productive work session at your desk only to wind up on the couch, the iLap ($45)—featuring a detachable front cushion—is one of the few lap desks stable enough for desk tasks. (The iRest model offers similar stability for tablets; all three cushions can be removed for easy folding and transport.)
Prepared for Action
The mBar Pro+ is the standout when it comes to portable stands. With a 5.5-inch elevation, it provides an optimal height for comfortable viewing and typing. When I’m not taking it to a café, it resides on my already crowded desk, ready for when I need to use a second screen.
The mBar Pro+, which is compatible with most MacBooks, also works with the 9.7-inch iPad, 10.5-inch, and 12.5-inch iPad Pro in horizontal orientation. It folds down to just 9.5 x 6 inches and tips the scales at less than one pound; this compact design makes it perfect for tucking into any tote bag, including my Lululemon Boxy Mini Tote. Additionally, it comes with a sleek pouch, like all of Rain Design’s portable offerings. For those who prefer lower stands, both the foldable mBar Pro ($55) and the mBar fixed stand ($25) elevate your MacBook by three inches.
Rain Design doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel with over-the-top features. Instead, the company has refined the basics, providing a range of stands that, at a minimum, remain steadfast under pressure. Ultimately, Rain Design delivers what we all wish for: unwavering stability, genuine thoughtfulness, and durability that will outlast your Apple device.
