Here’s a detailed look at the Tether Tools Rock Solid Non‑VESA Monitor Mount Adapter Arms (VADPT09), plus how it compares with their VESA mounts, and whether it might work for what you need.
🔧 What It Is
The Non‑VESA Monitor Mount Arms (VADPT09) are a set of adapter arms designed to give monitors that don’t have VESA‑mounting holes a way to be mounted. Essentially, it adds a VESA‑compatible mounting plate via clamping hooks, letting you use standard 75×75 mm or 100×100 mm arms/stands/mounts with non‑VESA monitors. Polyline Corp+1
📋 Key Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model / SKU | VADPT09 Rock Solid Non‑VESA Monitor Mount Adapter Arms Polyline Corp+1 |
| VESA Patterns Added | 75×75 mm and 100×100 mm B&H Photo Video+1 |
| Load Capacity | 17.6 lb (≈ 8.0 kg) B&H Photo Video+1 |
| Monitor Size Range | Fits many LCD/LED monitors with bezel height from ~10.5″ to ~16.25″, thickness from ~1.0″ to ~2.75″. Works for most typical widescreen monitors from 17″ to 27″, and some square 13″ ones. B&H Photo Video+1 |
| Materials / Build | Steel + heavy‑duty plastic; hooks have padding / protective lining to avoid scratching, slipping. Polyline Corp+1 |
| What’s Included | The four adapter arms, mounting hardware (screws etc.), protective hook pads etc. B&H Photo Video+1 |
✅ Strengths & When It’s Useful
Allows non‑VESA monitors to be mounted: If your monitor does not have standard VESA mounting holes, this is one of the cleaner, more reliable ways to mount it without drilling or much modification.
Good load capacity for its size: ~17.6 lb is enough for many typical 17‑27″ monitors, small to medium displays, field monitors etc.
Protects monitor edges: Padding on hooks helps protect the bezel, prevent scratches, avoid slipping.
Flexibility: Once you add VESA capability via this adapter, you can use any standard VESA arm, stand, or clamp, which gives more flexibility in mounting positions.
⚠️ Limitations & Things to Consider
Weight & size limits: If your monitor is heavier than ~8 kg or larger than about 27″ (or has a very thick or deep bezel), it might exceed what the adapter can support safely.
Bezel size / shape matters: If the bezel is too small or thin, the hooks may not grip well. Also very curved edges or unusual shapes may reduce stability.
Depth / Thickness matters: If the monitor is very thick (back is deep) or has protrusions, the hook might not reach or could interfere. Similarly, if the bezel is decorated or irregular, padding may not help.
Stability & sway: Even when clamped, because it’s an adapter and adds some distance, there could be slight flex or movement especially if the arm or stand used is long / extended.
Not all non‑VESA monitors are compatible: Some monitors with proprietary mounting designs might need either different adapter arms or VESA adapter plates. Always check whether the adapter arms’ hook geometry matches your monitor.
🔄 Comparison with Tether Tools VESA Monitor Mounts
For contrast, Tether Tools also offers strictly VESA‑based monitor mounts (e.g. “Local Vu”, “Studio Vu”, etc.). Some key differences:
| Feature | Non‑VESA Adapter (VADPT09) | VESA Mounts (Local Vu, Studio Vu etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Requires adapter vs built‑in VESA | Adapter arms clamp onto monitor frame | Mount has built‑in VESA mount plate (75×75, 100×100) |
| Best for monitors without VESA holes | Yes | Not needed if monitor already VESA compatible |
| Load capacity (typical) | ~17.6 lb (~8 kg) for adapter arms | Varies; many VESA mounts go higher (e.g. Studio Vu up to ~80 lb / ≈36 kg) Adorama+1 |
| Cleanest / most secure fit | Good, but adapter adds contact at bezel; may be less rigid than direct VESA when heavily loaded | More rigid, more direct, often better integration for tilt/rotations etc. |
| Price & parts complexity | Usually less costly than full high‑end VESA arms; fewer moving parts | Often higher cost, more features (tilt, large load, accessory receptors etc.) |