Should I use a laptop stand with an external monitor?

It depends on your setup. If you use the laptop screen as a secondary display, a stand that elevates it to match your monitor height creates a comfortable dual screen arrangement. If you use clamshell mode (laptop closed, external monitor only), a vertical stand saves the most desk space. If you only use the external monitor with the laptop open for the keyboard, a low profile stand can keep the laptop cool without blocking your view of the main screen.