What Music Stand Should a Guitarist Use in 2025?

Does anyone still need a music stand?

That’s a fair question.

You could just look at sheet music on a phone or tablet.

The problem is neck pain. Whether you’re looking at your phone or tablet or paper sheet music, it's uncomfortable to hunch over.

This is where a music stand comes in. It gets your phone or tablet or paper sheet music up to eye level.

If you’re going to use a music stand, which one is best?

This can seem confusing because of all the options out there.

I currently use two types of music stands, and I recommend both of them to other guitarists.

Here are the two I use:

1. Manhasset Concertino Stand

Manhasset stands are widely used by schools and universities, including the university where I teach.

For guitarists who play while seated, I specifically recommend the Concertino version of the Manhasset Stand. These are shorter than the regular orchestral stands that Manhasset makes and are a better height for playing while sitting down.

Several years ago, I bought two of the Concertino stands for my own personal use. I find them to be sturdy and reliable.

The reason I like them is because they’re so strong; the solid stand table supports your sheet music completely.

If you want more info on the Manhasset Concertino Stand, you can visit this link to look at the stand on Amazon. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

The only drawback I’ve found to the Manhasset stand is that it does not fold up compactly. It can be a hassle to use when traveling.

For that reason, there’s a second stand I’m currently using.

2. KraftGeek Capsule Music Stand

I recently got a KraftGeek stand (weird name!), which folds up compactly for ease of travel.

One of the things that got my attention was that it recently won Best in Show at NAMM in 2024.

The stand is adjustable in height and has a creatively designed system for clipping different-sized sheet music in place so it doesn't fall.

You also have the option of getting some accessories.

You can get a carrying bag, which is useful for travel.

You can also get a phone holder that can be positioned on the top or bottom of the stand. This is useful if you frequently use your phone for sheet music. It also helps if you use your phone for tuner apps, metronome apps, or to record your guitar playing.

Another accessory option is a light you can attach to the top of the stand to help you see your paper sheet music. If you sometimes play in a dimly lit area, having extra light at the top of your stand is helpful.

I have all three of the accessories for the stand and have found each one useful.

If you want more info on the KraftGeek Capsule Music Stand, you can visit this link. If you decide to get the stand, you are welcome to use the code SEAN at checkout for a 15% discount. (As a KraftGeek affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Or if you would rather look at the KraftGeek Capsule Music Stand on Amazon, you can do that through this link. (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

If you were going to choose one of these stands, which would be best?

That would depend on whether you plan to travel frequently with your guitar.

If you mostly play at home, I recommend the Manhasset stand.

But if you plan to play guitar in various places and want a stand you can take with you easily, I recommend the KraftGeek stand.

Keep making music!