The Xtand Pro from Just Mobile is an aluminum notebook stand that, while designed to match Apple MacBooks, works with any notebook computer. Its easy setup, sturdy build, and classy looks make it a good option for anyone that’s tired of hunching over a notebook at their desk. However, its $89 price tag is a bit steep for its simplicity.
Setup
Setting up the Xtand Pro takes three steps, which are printed on the underside of the top lid of the product box. The top of the unit is a large and sturdy metal X shape with a small screw hole. We had to place a silver tube (there are two, one about 2 inches in length, the other about 6 inches) over the screw mount, and attach that to the foot of the device. We inserted a long screw through the tray and the tube, and tightened it into the base mount using a nickel (though we don’t recommend this; read on for why); the process took about 2 minutes. Just Mobile claims that the stand has two adjustable heights, and while that’s true, it means taking the unit apart to change the tubes.
Performance
The Xtand looks great. It’s much sleeker than most notebook stands, and while we preferred the way it looked with an Apple MacBook on top, we thought it was just as attractive with our HP Pavilion dv3510nr on it, too. We regret using a nickel to screw the unit together: a few scratches appeared just from accidentally scraping the aluminum plate with the coin.
The MacBook and the dv3510nr each stayed in place very well, thanks to four rubber appliqués on the surface of the tray that grip the underside of a notebook. Better yet, it has two protruding tabs that prevent the notebook from sliding into your lap. The shape of the stand should help keep the notebook cool, since it didn’t block any of the vents on the laptop.
With the full-length metal tube adjustment, a laptop sits too high to type on; this longer tube is best for when you want to use an external keyboard and mouse. The shorter tube, which kept the notebook lower to our desk, was more comfortable to use when typing on the laptop itself.
Verdict
The Xtand is impressive. It’s a cinch to set up, and it worked very well. We love the metal design of the unit and its sturdiness. We do wish the stand had a swivel feature that would have allowed us to rotate our notebook while in use, though. Considering it’s just three pieces of metal and a screw, the $89 price tag is rather high, but the Xtand Pro is still a great choice for a notebook prop, whether you own a MacBook or other notebook.
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