In a world where all professionals, ranging from IT professionals to non-IT professionals, often boast about their multi-monitor setups, I have chosen a different path. For the past few years, I have deliberately limited myself to a single monitor setup. This isn’t about budget constraints or lack of desk space — it’s a deliberate choice that has transformed my productivity and focus. Here’s why I have embraced the single-monitor lifestyle and why you might want to consider it too.
The Context-Switching Tax
When I had multiple monitors, I found myself constantly jumping between different windows, applications, and tasks. Each monitor became a separate cognitive space, fragmenting my attention. Research in cognitive psychology has consistently shown that context switching is expensive — it can take up to 23 minutes to fully refocus after an interruption.
With a single monitor, I am forced to be intentional about what occupies my screen at any given moment. This creates a natural barrier against multitasking and helps me maintain deep focus on one task at a time.
Enhanced Workflow Discipline
Working with a single monitor has taught me to organise my workflow more efficiently. I have become proficient with keyboard shortcuts for window management, virtual desktops, and quick application switching. Tools like Rectangle on macOS have become essential parts of my toolkit, allowing me to arrange windows precisely how I need them.
This discipline extends beyond just window management — I have developed better habits for organising my digital workspace. I close applications I am not actively using, maintain a cleaner desktop, and keep my browser tabs under control.
The Power of Limitations
Constraints breed creativity. By limiting my visual workspace, I’ve discovered more elegant solutions to problems. When I can’t simply throw more windows onto another screen, I find myself looking for more efficient approaches to development tasks.
For example, I have gotten better at using terminal splits in tools rather than opening multiple terminal windows. I’ve mastered IDE features like split views that let me see related files side-by-side without needing additional screen real estate.
Better for My Physical Health
Before I switched to a single monitor, I often found myself with neck strain from constantly turning between screens. A properly positioned single monitor at eye level has significantly reduced these physical issues.
I have also noticed that my eyes are less strained at the end of the workday. Focusing on one screen means less visual adjustment and less exposure to different light sources and brightness levels.
The Exception: External Monitor for Laptops
I should clarify that when I say, “one monitor,” I am not advocating for coding on a 13-inch laptop screen all day. For ergonomic reasons, I do use a high-quality external monitor when working on a laptop. What I am arguing against is the practice of having multiple screens simultaneously.
My Ideal Setup
My current setup consists of one 24-inch monitor. This provides enough screen real estate to comfortably place two code windows side by side when needed, while maintaining excellent image quality and text sharpness. I’ve found this to be the sweet spot for productivity without the drawbacks of multiple monitors.
Not For Everyone
I recognise that this approach isn’t universal. There are legitimate use cases for multiple monitors:
- If you’re doing UX/UI work and need to simultaneously view designs and code
- If you regularly need to reference documentation while coding
- If your work involves constant monitoring of logs or metrics
However, I encourage you to experiment with a single monitor for some weeks before dismissing the idea. You might be surprised at how it reshapes your work habits for the better.
The Bottom Line
In an industry that often equates more tools with better productivity, sometimes less truly is more. My single monitor setup has made me a more focused, disciplined, and efficient engineer. It’s a small change that has had an outsized impact on both my work quality and my well-being.
If you’re drowning in screens and feeling scattered, consider simplifying. Your attention — and your neck — might thank you.