In an age where multitasking is the norm, having a second screen can be a game-changer. Whether you're a remote worker, digital nomad, student, or creative professional, a dual-screen setup can boost your productivity and streamline your workflow.
Enter the Mountie+ by Ten One Design, a deceptively simple yet highly effective tool designed to mount a tablet or smartphone onto your laptop screen. This upgraded version of the original Mountie promises a more secure grip, making it ideal for larger devices like the iPad Pro. But does it truly deliver on its promise?
Let’s take a deep dive into the Mountie+, exploring its design, functionality, strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases to determine if it’s worth the investment.
1. Design & Build Quality: Compact Yet Sturdy
The Mountie+ is all about blending portability with durability. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Materials & Construction
✅ Rubberized Grip Pads – These ensure a secure hold on both your laptop screen and secondary device without scratching them.
✅ Plastic & Metal Hybrid Body – The lightweight build maintains a balance between stability and portability.
✅ Flexible Clamp System – Unlike rigid mounts, the Mountie+ adapts to different laptop screen thicknesses, making it compatible with most MacBooks and ultrabooks.
✅ Minimalist Aesthetic – The sleek black and blue design maintains a modern, professional look, complementing high-end laptops and tablets.
Compatibility
📌 Works with devices between 5mm - 9mm thick (ideal for iPads, tablets, and large smartphones).
📌 Supports most MacBooks and ultrabooks, but may not be suitable for thicker gaming laptops.
📌 Stronger grip for larger tablets like iPad Pro, making it more versatile than the original Mountie.
Portability: A Travel-Friendly Dual-Screen Solution
Weighing just a few ounces, the Mountie+ is ultra-portable, slipping into a laptop bag without adding bulk. It’s an excellent companion for:
✔ Remote workers who need a dual-screen setup on the go.
✔ Digital nomads working in cafés, airports, and co-working spaces.
✔ Frequent travelers looking for a compact alternative to portable monitors.
2. Functionality & Ease of Use: Quick, Hassle-Free Setup
Setup & Mounting Process
The Mountie+ uses a simple clamp mechanism that attaches in seconds:
1️⃣ Clip one side onto your laptop screen.
2️⃣ Attach your tablet or smartphone to the other side.
3️⃣ Adjust the grip pads for a snug, secure fit.
The improved grip strength over the original Mountie means less wobbling and a tighter hold, making it reliable even for larger devices.
3. Use Cases: Who Is the Mountie+ For?
📌 Productivity Boosting
💡 Use an iPad as a second screen via Sidecar (Mac) or Duet Display (Windows & Mac).
💡 Keep Slack, Discord, or email open on the second screen while working.
💡 Streamline video editing workflows with a reference screen.
🌍 Remote Work & Digital Nomad Setups
🚀 Work from anywhere without carrying a bulky second monitor.
🚀 Keep your workspace clutter-free with a sleek, minimal setup.
🎬 Entertainment & Content Consumption
📺 Watch Netflix, YouTube, or Twitch on the secondary screen while working.
📖 Use it as a dedicated e-reader or digital notebook.
🎮 Gaming & Streaming
🎮 Stream games from a console to an iPad while using the laptop for chat.
🎮 Ideal for Twitch streamers needing a second screen.
4. Strengths: What Makes the Mountie+ Stand Out?
✅ Stronger Grip for Larger Tablets – Handles heavier devices like the iPad Pro better than the original Mountie.
✅ Lightweight & Compact – Unlike bulky monitor stands, it folds neatly away for easy travel.
✅ Cross-Platform Compatibility – Works with macOS, Windows, iPadOS, and apps like Duet Display, Spacedesk, and Astropad.
✅ No Extra Cables Needed – Unlike external monitors, the Mountie+ works wirelessly (Sidecar) or with a single USB cable (Duet Display).
5. Weaknesses & Limitations: What to Consider Before Buying
❌ Not Ideal for Heavy-Duty Screens – While it supports an iPad Pro, larger tablets (above 12.9 inches) may cause some wobbling.
❌ Laptop Screen Stability Issues – On thinner laptops (MacBook Air, Dell XPS 13), heavier tablets may tilt the screen backward. (Fix: Tilt the laptop screen forward before attaching the Mountie+.)
❌ Limited Adjustability – Unlike a flexible arm mount, the Mountie+ holds the screen in a fixed position.
❌ Screen Thickness Limitations – Works best with standard ultrabooks but may not fit very thin or thick laptop screens.
6. Who Should Buy the Mountie+?
✅ Ideal For:
✔ Digital Nomads & Travelers – Need a lightweight, portable dual-screen setup? This is for you!
✔ MacBook & iPad Users – If you use Sidecar or Duet Display, the Mountie+ is a perfect match.
✔ Productivity Enthusiasts – Coders, video editors, traders, and students will benefit from extra screen space.
❌ Not Ideal For:
✘ Graphic Designers & Digital Artists – If you use a stylus heavily, a separate tablet stand is a better choice.
✘ Users with Very Large Tablets – If you use a larger tablet (above 12.9 inches), a dedicated stand may be more stable.
✘ People Needing Adjustable Angles – The Mountie+ has a fixed screen position, which might not work for those who prefer flexibility.
Final Verdict: Is the Mountie+ Worth It?
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
For $30-$40, the Mountie+ is an excellent value for those who want a lightweight, cable-free, and portable dual-screen setup. It’s particularly great for Mac users leveraging Sidecar and Windows users with Duet Display.
That said, if you need a highly adjustable stand or work with very large tablets, a dedicated monitor or stand may be a better option.
TL;DR – Should You Buy It?
✔ YES – If you want a portable, second-screen setup for work, travel, or entertainment.
❌ NO – If you need adjustable angles or use an extra-large tablet.
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