Image: MomJunction Design Team
If you are a connoisseur of fine literature and feel proud of your home library, you might have come across a book stand that makes reading easier and more comfortable. The best book stands allow you to keep the book down conveniently and get through it hands-free. Some book stands also come in elegant designs and complement the decor of your reading space. You can also adjust the height and angle of the stand and make sure your back, neck, and shoulders aren’t hunched over, which can damage your posture over the long run. This handy piece of furniture is super-portable and easy to carry around, so you can take it with you to college or the library and make your reading experience more pleasant.
Check out these proven and user-friendly book stands that will help you relax and immerse yourself in your favorite book.
Top Picks
13 Best Book Stands Of 2024
1. Best With Page Holder: Wishacc Bamboo Book Stand
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 5,077 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Wishacc’s time-tested bamboo book stand is a compact, versatile, and eco-friendly option to display your books and documents. The lightweight has a compact design and it is made from durable and sustainable bamboo is easy to move around. In addition, its springs and adjustable clips allow you to lock the stand at five different angles for a pain-free reading session.
Pros
- Has a built-in page holder
- Can hold multiple books at once
- Can also be used to hold tablets
- Foldable design for easy storage and carry
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- May not be suitable for heavy books
- Material might warp over time
"I find this book stand useful for my books as well as phones and tablets. The viewing angles are easy to adjust, and I like its smooth finish and aesthetic look. It's worth keeping to enhance my everyday reading experience."
2. Best With Spring Pegs: Wishacc Bamboo Book Stand
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 2,519 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Your search for a lightweight and durable book stand ends here. This portable literature stand can be adjusted to five different angles, helping you maintain a correct posture while reading. It is stable and sturdy enough to support books of any size, phones, and laptops. If you need more convincing, feel free to take a look at this review video.
Pros
- Made of high-quality bamboo
- Safety-tested and certified material
- Folds flat and fits into large-sized backpacks or bags
- Attached spring pegs hold the books in place
- Can hold books or devices weighing up to ten pounds
Cons
- May be prone to molds and cracks
- May be smaller than you expect
"This bamboo book stand has become a functional accessory at home. Its adjustable tilt adapts to our various needs, making reading time more comfortable. Also, its lightweight and portable nature makes it easy to carry from one room to another."
Quick tip3. Best Portable: A+ Book Stand BS2500 Book Holder
This study stand is a great option for those who like to carry their favorite books to their workplace. It is lightweight, portable, has a foldable design, and easily fits into a backpack. It offers five adjustable positions to help you read at a comfortable angle and avoid eye fatigue, neck strain, and headache. The stand can be used on the kitchen countertop, desk, and in bed, thanks to its non-slip rubber feet that keep the stand firmly in place. Further, the flexible page holder keeps the pages open, and the paper clip allows for easy turning of pages.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed with durable bronze hinges, plastic reinforcements, and acrylic cover on the sharp edges
- Has an extra-wide front tray to support large and thick books
- Reliable choice for people with limited mobility
- No assembly required
Cons
- Metal prongs used to keep the pages intact may not be tight enough
- Plastic reinforcements may not be durable enough
"I can easily adjust the angles of this book stand to accommodate various books, be it my large textbooks or 1700-page heavy tomes. Its silicone-capped page holders are gentle on the pages and don't leave any marks. Plus, it doubles as a tablet holder."
Wishacc Bamboo Book Stand Best With Page Holder | Wishacc Bamboo Book Stand Best With Spring Pegs | A+ Book Stand BS2500 Book Holder Best Portable | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 11.2"D x 8.3"W x 0.39"H | 8.07"D x 11.02"W x 0.39"H | 10.5"D x 15.5"W x 1.5"H |
| Weight | 1.65 Pounds | - | 1090 Grams |
| Material | Bamboo | Bamboo | Engineered Wood |
| Color | - | Brown | Wooden |
| Shape | - | - | L-Shaped |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 5,077 | 2,519 | 1,207 |
| Price | $13.59 | $13.59 | $34.99 |
4. KLOUD City Book Stand
Ideal for holding not only books, but also phones and iPads, this book stand is suitable for home, library, and office. This sleek black device features a steel holder plate and a plastic base. With 7 grooves, this stand provides 7 different viewing angles for a comfortable reading experience. It includes 4 non-slip rubber pads at the bottom for stability and 2 adjustable plastic holders that work well to hold books with less than 900 pages.
5. Best Minimalistic: Tripar Gold-Plated Wire Plate Stand
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 399 good reviews on Amazon.
Tripar’s four-inch gold-plated square wire plate stand holder is a stylish way to display traditional cookbooks. Its simple and compact design makes it a good fit for all rooms and kitchens. The durable metal book stand allows you to move around and keeps the books stain-free by locking the desired page in place. Moreover, the lack of nooks, crannies, and additional attachments makes this stand user-friendly and easy to clean.
Pros
- Has a smooth finish
- Comes in a classic golden hue
- Easy to use
- Has an extended lip to hold thick books
- Can be used to display art or dinnerware
Cons
- Some might find the material slightly flimsy
- Base might be slightly wobbly
"Whether for displaying a plate or picture frame or stabilizing a page-a-day calendar, this one does the trick neatly. And though it doesn't work great for large textbooks, it offers adequate support. Overall, it is a decent choice for multi-purpose use."
6. Best Collapsible Design: Syitcun Adjustable Book Stand
Looking for a book stand that will last you for years? The Syitcun Adjustable Book Stand is an excellent choice. It is made of durable heavy-duty aluminum alloy, and the stand’s collapsible design enables you to fold it for compact storage.
Pros
- Sturdy base and durable tray for holding books, tablets, documents, and laptops
- Adjustable paper clips keep books wide open without damaging the paper
- Adjustable height and angle
- Can be used to correct eye-level and posture when reading
Cons
- May not be very stable
- May not be easy to set up
"As an avid reader, I feel comfortable using this support pad for a pain-free reading time. It nicely elevates the books to a proper height and gives me a better viewing angle."
Quick tip7. Best Lightweight: Uncaged Ergonomics Reading Stand
When a few grad students decide to design a reading stand, what you get is an ergonomically designed stand with adjustable height and angle features to help you read comfortably. This device has a vertical, tiered design that offers an open space at the bottom for taking notes, and the legs’ height can be adjusted to up to two feet. It is a trusted choice for improving posture.
Pros
- Suitable for school and college students
- Has a rotating panel that rotates 360° and locks in at 15° increments
- Made of anodized aluminum for holding big textbooks
- Large, spacious, and collapsible
Cons
- May not be easy to set up or adjust
- May be slightly bulky
"Despite being less adjustable, its sturdiness and robust construction keep my books steady, even the heavy ones. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a durable option. My son also seems to love its robot-like design and borrows it often."
Did you know?8. Best Height-Adjustable: Wishacc Upright Book Stand
The upright book easel from Wishacc has a height-adjusting mechanism that can enhance your concentration while cooking, reading, or studying. It has a sturdy, lightweight design that makes it easy to use and transport. In addition, the tried and trusted stand can be locked at five different angles for a personalized, hands-free reading experience, and the stand’s durable non-slip bamboo base keeps it from tipping over.
Pros
- Has two rubber-tipped metal page clips
- Swivel knob makes it easy to adjust
- Can be used to hold tablets
- Suitable for gifting
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- Panel might be slightly crooked
- May not be suitable for heavy books
9. Best Travel-Friendly: SmartMe Portable Book Stand
When folded into a compact size, this tried-and-tested book stand takes up very little counter space and is ideal for carrying in your bag or backpack. It is straightforward to install–all you have to do is hold the device, pull out the head, and lower the plate. At 0.33lb, it is incredibly light, offers five adjustable angles, and can support books measuring up to 10.43in in height and 1.18in in thickness.
Pros
- Highly portable
- Has a built-in spring to make flipping pages possible with one hand
- Four-point mounting system enhances reading efficiency and prevents rolling or folding
- Made of ABS plastic
Cons
- May not be easy to set up
- May not be sturdy enough
"This book stand is a compact and handy tool for on-the-go reading. Though it struggles to support heavy books, it's a decent option for my little one's slim textbooks. Moreover, its adjustable height and angle make her reading time more comfortable."
10. Best Eco-Friendly: Pipishell Bamboo Book Stand
This eco-friendly book stand by Pipishell is a versatile and convenient way to hold your cookbooks, textbooks, tablets, documents, and other heftier books and reading materials while keeping your hands free for multi-tasking. The adjustable stand can be set to the perfect position for comfortable reading, and the non-slip design keeps your book securely in place.
Pros
- Suitable for libraries, dorms, and offices
- Made of non-toxic, sturdy, durable, reusable, and sustainable bamboo
- Adjustable three-angle settings to prevent neck pain and fatigue
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- May not be easy to set up
- Screw used for holding the hinges may fall out easily
"The functionality and eco-conscious design are what make me like this one. It is easily adjustable and accommodates different sizes of books, including my husband's heavy tomes. I just wish the hinges were a tad shorter than they are."
11. Best For Gifting: Autom Wooden Book Stand
Tired of hunching or slouching when reading a book? Lay your hands on this adjustable book stand by Autom. The Bible stand measures approximately 11.5×9.7 inches. It features three adjustable angles to ensure you sit in the correct posture when reading. When not in use, you can fold it flat and store it securely.
Pros
- Looks like an antique piece and elevates the look of traditional decors
- Big enough to accommodate books weighing up to ten pounds
- Suitable for gifting
- Angle of the book can be adjusted while in use
Cons
- May not be termite-proof
- Surface might be a bit rough
"This wooden stand has proven to be a sturdy and supportive option for holding my hefty Bible and cherished cookbooks. Its aesthetically pleasing look also makes it ideal for office use. Just make sure the hinge pins are tightly screwed during assembly."
12. Best Cushioned: The Book Seat Book Holder
The versatile and proven bean bag-shaped cushioned book holder allows you to place your book at an angle, even on plush and uneven surfaces such as a sofa, bed, or your lap. Its microfiber outer fabric makes it a soft and scratch-free platform for delicate digital devices. In addition, the surface of this fabric book stand is stain-resistant and can be easily spot cleaned.
Pros
- Transparent holder to secure the book on the seat without obstructing visibility
- Includes a pocket to hold spectacles, stationery items, or charger
- Lightweight design for portability
- Allows you to relax and read simultaneously
Cons
- Reading angle may not be adjustable
- May not be space-efficient
13. Best Durable: Red Co. Transparent Acrylic Book Stand
The classy and transparent book stand is made of heavy-duty acrylic, making it ideal for long-term use. This elegant plastic book stand is perfect for occasions when you need the reading material to be at a lower angle. Moreover, the transparent design lets the user see the book cover while it is being held.
Pros
- Can be dismantled for space-efficient storage
- Suitable for formal occasions
- Sturdy base
- Easy to use
- Large enough to accommodate big and heavy books
Cons
- Surface might not be scratch-resistant
- May have a fixed reading angle
How To Choose The Right Book Stand?
Go through the points below to know what you should look for when choosing the best book holder/stand.
- Material: Plastic, wood, bamboo, metal, and polyester are the most common materials used to make these devices. The material of a book could determine the durability and strength of the device. While some materials are lightweight and low-maintenance, others are environment-friendly and well-built. What material you choose depends on your preference and how and where you intend to use a book stand.
- Size: Book stands are meant to make your reading experience convenient, so look for a size that best suits your needs. For someone studying law or medicine, a large book holder will be beneficial, since they use heavy textbooks. But if you are someone who reads novels or cookbooks, a small book holder would do.
- Adjustability: If you want to maintain good posture and ensure eye-level reading, you need to opt for a stand with adjustable height and angle.
- Other features: Ensure the holder has a clip to hold the book in place and prevent pages from turning. You could also look for additional features such as a foldable design for convenient storage, anti-slip rubber pads and a weighted base for added stability, or small wheels for easy maneuverability.
Benefits Of Using A Book Stand
- It helps you maintain a proper posture while reading.
- It facilitates hands-free reading.
- It takes up less desk or counter space.
- It is versatile and can be used to hold books, laptops, and iPads.
- It features multiple angle settings that help you choose the best reading position.
Tips: Proper Reading Posture
- When you sit on a chair, always pay heed to the right leg height. This means that your legs should be perpendicular to the floor, and your thighs should be parallel to the floor. Sitting this way will keep the blood circulation in your legs intact.
- Provide good cushioning to your feet if you want to sit in a relaxed position. Never keep your feet hanging; otherwise, your muscles could cramp, leading to immense pain.
- Neck, shoulders, and back should be adequately supported.
- Do not hunch forward or slouch. Sit up straight by keeping your spine in a neutral position.
- Keep the book at eye level, which will, in turn, help in keeping your back straight.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John is adept at choosing and reviewing furniture and desk items, whether it is for your office or home. After analyzing multiple online forums with reliable product reviews, she has compiled a list of the best book stands that are portable and lightweight. These products are easy to carry and prized possessions for readers who require adjustable tools. Moreover, they come in various shapes and sizes and are made of different materials, including durable metal and plastic.
The Bottom Line
If you love reading, a book stand is a must-have. A good book stand is durable enough to hold all types of books, small, big, light, or heavy, and helps improve your posture when reading. Further, it is versatile enough to hold your laptops and iPads and features several height and angle settings to let you choose the best reading position. When choosing one, always ensure it is made of durable material and is foldable, lightweight, and portable, like the Wishacc Bamboo Book Stand. The metal-based Tripar Gold-Plated Wire Plate Stand is another trusted option for thick books. We also like the fabric-based The Book Seat Book Holder, which is easy to clean and has a pocket.
Infographic: Benefits Of Using A Book Stand
While the most evident benefit of using a book stand is being able to keep the book steady, there’s more to it. A better understanding of the advantages of utilizing a functional book stand can help you select more precisely. So, check out the following infographic to learn about the conveniences a typical book stand provides.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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