Back in 2019, Apple released an amazing new monitor; the Pro Display XDR. It was 32 inches, it featured a whopping 6K resolution, and it had a 576-zone full array local dimming backlight. But while this monitor was outstanding for the time, feedback was fairly negative because of another product that was released alongside it; the Pro Stand.

Paying $1,000 for a monitor stand seems absolutely outrageous–and it is, don’t get us wrong. However, there’s a reason why Apple charges this much for a stand that is made to be used with their Pro Display XDR; because it’s not meant for regular consumers. As a professional product, average consumers aren’t going to be buying something like this. It’s built from the ground up for industry use, and many of those companies wouldn’t think twice about paying $1,000 for a computer stand. This is partially why some industry-standard equipment just costs so much–because it’s made for an audience that has very deep pockets.

But that’s not the only reason why these things cost so much.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/qVpmSbGohJE (CC0)

Low production quantity means higher costs

Let’s face it, something unique like a fibre camera adapter is incredibly important for the people that use it, but it’s not something that everyone goes out to buy because they just don’t have the equipment to use it. It’s made for a specific industry and it’s not meant to be sold to every hobbyist. Specialized equipment like this is produced in very small quantities, hence why it needs to be expensive.

However, these companies also know just how important that equipment is. They know that something like a camera stand or a display arm will be essential for a production that could make a company millions of dollars in profit. When you consider the price of this equipment, it’s a tiny investment for what the company could stand to make.

Looking after employees is important

Industry-standard equipment and goods are also expensive because employers are willing to pay more for the health and safety of their staff, especially when it comes to long-term considerations. For instance, buying a Herman Miller chair for home use seems expensive at first. Not many people have the money to buy a chair for four digits, even if they spend a lot of time working at home.

But for a business with a large office, that would barely make a dent in their profits. And the positives of buying it? A happy and healthy team that doesn’t complain about back pain or poor posture. If paying $1,000 is all that it takes to keep one employee happy until they leave the company, then it’s a tiny investment for a company to make.

But you don’t always need to use industry-standard stuff

While a lot of these things are expensive, not everyone needs them. For instance, if you’re just starting up a YouTube channel then you probably don’t need expensive camera equipment and studio lights–a smartphone camera is all you need. Similarly, a small startup with a tiny office doesn’t need expensive Herman Miller chairs–something from IKEA will do just fine.

In short, industry goods are expensive because businesses can afford them. If you can’t afford them as a hobbyist or a startup, don’t feel too bad about it.