Computer Display Viewing Angles: Is it Time to Shed a Few Degrees?

Abstract

The angle at which a computer display is viewed may have an impact on the musculoskeletal and visual comfort of the user. Although scientific literature regarding viewing angles has grown in the past decade, a research gap still remains. As a result, one is challenged to design workstation solutions that satisfy the performance requirements of both the musculoskeletal and visual systems, and at the same time, adapt to individual preferences. The following recommendations are offered based on a “middle ground” approach where research findings regarding eye comfort, neck comfort and user preferences are all taken into account: (1) the top of the display screen should be placed at or lower than 5° below the horizontal line of sight; and (2) the center of the display should be positioned no more than 25° below the user's horizontal line of sight. These recommendations create a viewing angle range that is less than current recommendations stated in ergonomic standards for VDT workstations.