Tablet Stand Fixing From Above and Fixing From Below Explained

Mounting a tablet stand or iPad stand seems simple. And with Bouncepad it most definitely is. 

Our Desk, Static 60, Flex, Branch and Wall mounting arms, for both the Core and Original range, can be mounted in one of two ways:

• Surface mounted – fixing from above
• Through mounted – fixing from below 

In this guide, we’re going to look at both mounting methods and help you decide which is the best for your needs.

What is Fixing From Above (Surface Mounting)?

Fixing from Above refers to attaching a tablet stand directly to the top of a surface from above.  You drill into the top of a desk or countertop, without going all the way through, and use the supplied Torx security wood screws provided, as shown in the image below.

Let’s say you’ve got a retail counter in a high-end boutique. You want to set up a tablet for customer feedback or as a POS system, but the surface is very thick. Fixing from Above means you attach the stand securely without drilling all the way through the counter.

You can also fix a tablet or iPad stand to a wall from above, as shown in the image below. This is the choice for most wall mounted installations, as it’s usually difficult to access the inside of the wall.

These are the main benefits of fixing from above or surface mounting.

• Very quick to install: No need for complex tools or a handyman
• Less invasive: Avoid disrupting the counter or wall too much

What is Fixing From Below (Through Mounting)?

Through mounting or fixing from below involves drilling a hole right through the surface of a desk, countertop, or wall. You then use the supplied bolts and fasteners to secure the mount from below or to the side. This makes a sturdy and more streamlined fixture. See the image below for a through-mounted desk iPad stand.

Imagine a self-service kiosk in a bustling airport terminal. You can mount the tablet stand through a thin wall to make sure it stays firmly in place, even with constant use. See the image below for an example of a wall through mount.

As well as being durable, through mounting is ideal for areas where security might be an issue, such as a museum or gallery where it’ll be left unattended. Securing your stand with a fixing that goes right through the surface reduces the risk of tampering or accidental dislodging.

The main benefits of through mounting are as follows.

• Highly Stable: Perfect for places with heavy daily use.
• Enhanced Security: Stops tampering or accidental movement.
• Long-term Reliability: Ideal for permanent setups in high-traffic areas.

A Note On Cable Management

When you’re fixing a tablet stand in place using either method, you need to consider the charging cable. The two options available are as follows.

• Fixing from below: Cable can only be trunked through the surface (fully concealed).
• Fixing from above: Cable can be trunked through (concealed) or along the surface (not concealed).

The image below shows how cables can be managed in both scenarios on a desk mount.

How to Choose the Right Mounting Method

Choosing the right mounting method for your tablet stand is almost as important as choosing the design of the stand itself. Here are a few things to think about when selecting a tablet stand mounting method.

1. Location
• Temporary vs. Permanent: If you’re looking for a flexible, less invasive setup, Fixing from Above is ideal. For permanent fixtures in high-traffic areas, Fixing from Below offers maximum stability and durability.
2. Surface Material
• The type of surface you’re working with matters. Fixing from Above is great for thick wooden surfaces. On the other hand, Fixing from Below works with most drillable materials providing they are no thicker than 25mm. 
3. Traffic Level
• For heavy daily use, such as retail counters or public self-service kiosks, Fixing from Below offers a lot of stability and tamper free installation. In quieter, low-traffic areas, Fixing from Above offers a practical, less invasive solution.
4. Aesthetics
• Do you want a clean, minimal look with concealed cables? Fixing from Below means tidier setups by hiding cables underneath the surface.

Surface Mounting vs. Through Mounting

Bouncepad’s Expertise in Mounting Solutions

Bouncepad offers versatile mounting options in both the Core and Original range for the following models.

• Static 60: A fixed stand designed for professional setups. Ideal for places where the tablet needs to stay in a single, stable position, like self-service kiosks or sign-in stations.
• Flex: The adjustable gooseneck design makes it easier for users to interact with the tablet at different angles. Great for retail counters, customer feedback stations, or dynamic POS setups.
• Branch: This stand is made for standing user interaction ideal for collaborative workspaces, educational environments, or visitor check-ins at large events.
• Desk: A durable, low-profile stand designed for desks and countertops. It’s perfect for reception areas or office spaces.
• Wall Mount: A space-saving solution designed to keep your tablet at eye level. Ideal for areas with limited surface space, such as corridors or wall-mounted check-in stations.

If you’d like to find out more about Bouncepad’s range of tablet and iPad stands, get in touch today.