How to Choose the Right Mounting Solution

Choosing the right mounting solution can feel like a challenge, especially when different users, devices and environments all need something slightly different.

The right setup can make a real difference to comfort, access and independence. It can help position a switch securely, support a communication device at the right height, make a tablet easier to reach, or provide the stable alignment needed for eye gaze. Inclusive Technology’s mounting range covers switches, communication aids, tablets, smartphones and eye trackers, with options for desks, wheelchairs, floor stands, bedsides and more.

This guide is a simple starting point to help you understand the main types of mounting solutions and what to think about before choosing one.

A good place to begin is with the device itself. A small switch, a lightweight AAC aid, a tablet and an eye gaze system all have different positioning needs. Some are compact and easy to support. Others need more reach, more stability, or a stronger base. Thinking first about the size, weight and purpose of the device will help narrow down the most suitable type of mount.

The environment is just as important as the device. Some setups are used on desks or classroom tables. Others need to attach to wheelchairs, trays, beds or seating. In some cases, the mount needs to stay in one place all day. In others, it needs to be moved or adjusted regularly between activities or users.

Ask yourself:

• What surface will the mount attach to?
• Does it need to be portable?
• Will it be used by one person or shared?
• Does it need quick repositioning throughout the day?

One of the biggest factors in choosing a mount is finding the right balance between stability and flexibility.

Some users need a mount that stays firmly in position once set. Others benefit from something that can be adjusted quickly and easily. Lighter, more flexible options can be ideal for switches and small devices, while larger AAC and eye gaze setups often need more robust support. This is why mounting solutions vary so much across the category.

If the setup needs to be changed often, flexibility may be the priority. If the device needs very precise placement or is used more heavily, stability is likely to matter more.

For many users, a tabletop mounting solution is the easiest place to start. Tabletop mounts can work well when the device needs a stable home on a desk, table or tray without the complexity of a larger arm system. They are often a good fit for schools, therapy rooms and home setups.

The Maxess Mounting System is a strong example for switches and communication devices. It is designed to position devices securely and comfortably, and was developed in partnership with therapists and switch users. It includes the Maxess Switch Tray and Maxess Switch Mounts, making it particularly useful for both individual use and assessment situations where different switch positions need to be explored.

The Wedge Angled Switch and Tablet Mounts offer a different kind of tabletop support. With a fixed 15 degree angle, a non-slip base and a lightweight fold-flat design, they can help improve access to switches, tablets and small communication devices in a simple, portable way.

For more temporary setups on smooth desks or tables, the Inclusive Table Top Suction Mount provides quick attachment to smooth, non-porous surfaces and allows flexible positioning through its pivoting arm. It is designed for switches, tablets and communication devices where portability matters.

When the device is small and frequent repositioning is needed, a lighter flexible mount can be a practical option.

The Flexzi 1 Switch Mount is designed for switches and small devices, and can be attached to a chair, table or tray. It is lightweight, highly flexible and easy to shape into different positions and angles. It is also supplied with a Super Clamp base and comes in different lengths, making it useful for a range of lighter setups.

This kind of mount can be especially useful in classrooms, at home, or during assessment, where the position may need to change throughout the day. It is best suited to lighter devices rather than larger or heavier equipment.

Sometimes a lightweight flexible arm is not quite enough, but a larger stand would be more than is needed.

In these cases, a more controlled arm can offer the right balance. The Universal Switch Mounting Variable Friction Arm extends to 51cm, includes a Super Clamp for attaching to wheelchairs or table edges, and supports devices up to 2kg. Its large knob allows the position to be adjusted and locked progressively, which makes it useful when a secure hold and fine positioning are both important.

This can be a good option for switches and small devices that need to stay stable during use while still allowing occasional adjustment.

Tablets are used across communication, learning and access, so mounting needs can vary widely.

The Gooseneck with Universal Tablet Holder is designed to fit tablets from 7 inches to 13 inches, including iPads and Samsung Galaxy tablets. It attaches to table edges or round bars and is intended to provide flexible but stable positioning, with good screen visibility and access to ports. That makes it well suited to classroom, home and clinical environments where touch access matters.

The Flexzi 3 for iPad is a good option when you need more reach and stability than a standard lightweight flexible mount can offer. This heavy-duty, triple-stranded mount is designed for a range of iPad models and comes with a detachable EVA foam case for added protection. With a clamp base for attaching to wheelchairs, bed frames or desks, it can work well in settings where secure positioning, flexibility and portability are all important. Despite its stronger design, it still allows the iPad to be adjusted to a comfortable viewing or interaction angle.

If you are mounting a tablet for learning, communication or access, it is worth considering whether the setup needs to be tabletop-based, wheelchair-mounted or portable between settings.

As devices become larger or more specialised, stable positioning becomes even more important. For tabletop use, the REHAdapt Table Stand offers a large base for secure positioning and includes an integrated anti-tip function and automatic feet alignment for use on uneven surfaces. It is designed to support assistive technology devices including eye trackers.

When a device needs to be positioned beside a bed, wheelchair, armchair or sofa, a floor stand may be more appropriate. The REHAdapt Floor Stand is designed for AAC devices such as Tobii and Grid Pad, with a sturdy base, adjustable height and detachable design for storage.

For more demanding setups, the REHAdapt PentaLock Tele Floor Stand is designed to support communication devices such as the Surface Pro over beds, sofas or wheelchairs. It includes a telescopic column with gas spring, an articulated arm, an integrated counter weight and a compact rolling base for secure positioning and manoeuvrability.

If you are still unsure where to begin, this quick guide can help.

• Choose a tabletop option if you need stable support on a desk, tray or table.
• Choose a flexible mount if you are positioning a lightweight switch or small device and need frequent repositioning.
• Choose a controlled arm if you need more stability for a switch or small device mounted to a wheelchair or table edge.
• Choose a tablet holder if you need secure positioning for an iPad or tablet used for touch access, communication or learning.
• Choose a floor stand if you need stable support for a larger AAC or eye gaze device beside a bed, chair or wheelchair.

Mounting is a specialist area, and it is completely normal not to know exactly what you need straight away.

The best solution often depends on a combination of factors including the device, the environment, the amount of support needed and how often the position must change. Starting with those questions can help make the options feel much more manageable.

If you are looking for a place to begin, explore our full range of mounting solutions for switches, AAC, tablets and eye gaze.