Is Ergotron actually worth 3–5x the price of HUANUO or VIVO?

Long-term durability is the main argument. Ergotron's LX uses a Constant Force mechanical spring (not gas) with a 10-year warranty, and r/MonitorLizards and workfromhere.substack contributors note it doesn't sag over years the way some gas-spring arms eventually do. For a single high-value monitor you'll keep for 5+ years it tends to win on total cost of ownership; for a basic 24–27" setup most reviewers say a $30–60 arm is plenty.