NB SmooVex Model-A5 Monitor Arm
Budget-tier, 4.6 stars, gas spring. The affordable arm that does not feel cheap.
- Gas spring mechanism at a price where most competitors use inferior tension screws
- 4.6-star Amazon rating from verified buyers at the budget price tier
- Supports monitors up to 17.6 lbs across full tilt, swivel, and rotation
Best For / Not For
Best for
- Budget buyers who want a full-range monitor arm without the HUANUO or Ergotron price
Not for
- Heavy monitors over 17.6 lbs -- step up to the HUANUO or Ergotron for heavier displays
Key Details
Budget Gas Spring
In this budget tier, most monitor arms use a tension-screw mechanism. These require manual tightening to hold position and provide jerky, unsmooth adjustment. The NB SmooVex A5 includes a gas spring at a price level where competitors often cut corners on the mechanism.
For lighter monitors (under 17.6 lbs), which covers the majority of 24-27 inch panels currently available, the A5 provides the smooth, held adjustment that defines quality monitor arms.
Weight Limit Consideration
The 17.6 lb capacity limits the A5 to lighter displays. Most 24-inch monitors weigh 8-12 lbs, and most 27-inch monitors weigh 10-16 lbs -- within the A5's range. Ultrawide or curved monitors at 32+ inches often exceed 17.6 lbs. Check your monitor's weight before purchasing.
For monitors at or near the weight limit, the HUANUO FlowLift's 26.5 lb capacity provides meaningful headroom. The price difference between the A5 and the HUANUO is small enough to make the HUANUO the right call for monitors in the 15-25 lb range.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gas spring performance is rare in this price tier and meaningfully better than tension-screw alternatives
- 4.6-star rating matches the HUANUO FlowLift despite the lower price
- Includes both clamp and grommet mount options
Cons
- Lower weight capacity (17.6 lbs) limits compatibility to lighter monitors
- North Bayou brand has less established long-term track record than Ergotron
Bottom Line
The NB SmooVex A5 is the best budget monitor arm for monitors under 17.6 lbs. Gas spring mechanism, 4.6 stars, and full adjustment range deliver ergonomic value that outperforms every tension-screw alternative in this price tier. Check your monitor weight before purchasing.
Check current price on Amazon
