The ones that didn't look like they had this problem had a completely different problem. They were way too big. They were like this because they were meant to be used as drawing stands, which appeals to many people, including myself, but I wanted this stand for writing. Typically I write my notes in portrait mode, like a piece of paper, so having a less obtrusive design was preferred.
Turns out searching for a tablet stand was what wasn't working for me. This "Laptop Stand" is exactly what I wanted. Sticks to the table, sturdy metal, and just wide enough while fully extended for my ~6 in wide (~11in wide) iPad to rest comfortably in portrait mode. The metal frame and under-grips means that I've never had any unintentional movement when writing. It even works alright as a drawing stand in landscape mode, although I can't for sure say that'll hold true for bigger tablets. One thing I wasn't even looking for in this project was how portable it is! It barely takes up any space when compacted, which as a student has made it much more compelling for me to take notes on my iPad at school. The extra ergonomics that come with the various angles is great.
I'm not one to typically write reviews on any product I buy online. But I think this may be the first non-disposable utility product I've genuinely bought twice (one for home, one on the go). Its effectiveness as a stand makes me feel like it would be just as good for portrait sketchbooks, as well as other hand-focused activities.