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Portable monitors for laptops are convenient accessories that instantly transform any space into a powerful workstation with a higher resolution screen and the ability to run more applications at once. They allow you to quickly set up a workspace anywhere you go — plus, they eliminate the annoying task of lugging around a large bulky monitor when you need to perform split-screen tasks such as giving a presentation remotely over Zoom.
With hybrid work becoming the norm for many, portable monitors have become more popular than ever, and rightfully so — these tech accessories allow you to effortlessly multitask at any time, in any setting. For example, graphic designers and developers can rely on a portable monitor to work on multiple projects without disrupting other tasks. On the other hand, space-starved gamers (myself included) can enjoy their gear to the fullest on a higher-quality screen.
A portable monitor is also a thoughtful gift for the gamers, designers, developers and digital nomads in your life. This is why we spent weeks scrutinizing and testing products to determine the best worth buying.
The Best Portable Monitors
What to Consider
Display Panel
A high-quality screen is hands-down the most important bit to look for when shopping for a portable monitor. Today's best offerings rock IPS or OLED panels, with the latter being noticeably more vibrant. Also available on today's best smartphones, an OLED display will produce a more enjoyable viewing experience with deep contrast and punchier colors than an IPS panel. Just be mindful that OLED monitors are pricier than IPS-toting ones.
When it comes to pixel density, don't settle for a portable monitor with a lower resolution than Full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) in 2022. Sharper 4K screens are worth considering if you plan to use the accessory to complement a powerful notebook or tablet for creative projects (think, editing images and video) or a high-powered gaming console like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
Connectivity
The more connectivity ports a portable monitor has, the more versatile and futureproof it will be. Unless you're shopping on a tight budget, look for products with mini HDMI and USB-C outputs. Their retail packages usually include cables, so you won't have to spend extra to use their ports.
Additional USB-C ports for charging or powering other accessories are also worth watching for. The same goes for a standard audio jack.
More Features Worth Your Attention
Stereo speakers and an integrated stand are two additional features that a quality portable monitor should offer — but don't expect any feats of acoustic excellence from the speakers.
Don't worry if the monitor you are considering doesn't have a built-in stand. Such devices always feature a bundled display cover that can double as one.
A Note for Mac Users
If you're an iPad-owning MacBook user shopping for a portable monitor, have you considered using your tablet as a secondary wireless screen? Thanks to Apple's Sidecar feature, you can. All you need before starting is to make sure that both devices use the same Apple ID.
Sidecar will allow you to move MacBook windows to your iPad’s screen, interact with gesture controls, and even use the Apple Pencil. Of course, you can interact with iPad apps, too.
Whether you need an extra screen for your home office or want to do some work on the go, find it among these highly rated portable monitors.
ASUS ZenScreen OLED MQ13AH Portable Monitor
ASUS ZenScreen OLED MQ13AH Portable Monitor
Pros
- Captivating OLED display
- Sleek and portable
- Plenty of connectivity features
Cons
- No built-in speakers
Key Specs
| Display | 13.3-inch Full HD OLED screen |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 3 USB-C ports, mini HDMI |
| Other | Blue light filter, tripod mount |
This portable monitor by ASUS is the best for most consumers because it offers a versatile design, a vibrant OLED display, and a surprisingly rich set of connectivity ports, all at an agreeable price. Weighing just above 1 pound, the 13.3-inch ultra thin monitor is also easy to carry in a bag or a backpack alongside your laptop. A 15.6-inch version of the ZenScreen OLED is also available.
In addition to accurate colors, wide viewing angles, and eye strain-reducing tech, the captivating display of the ASUS ZenScreen OLED has stellar brightness and onboard tech to reduce flicker and eye-straining blue light. Thanks to a built-in proximity sensor, the portable monitor will conveniently become dimmer when you don't use it.
The stylish protective cover of the ZenScreen OLED doubles as a viewing stand. The monitor also has a handy tripod mount. Its retail package includes a power adapter, braided USB-C and HDMI cables, and a USB-C to USB-A adapter.
ViewSonic ViewSonic VA1655 Portable Monitor
ViewSonic ViewSonic VA1655 Portable Monitor
Pros
- Good picture quality for the money
- Easy on the eyes
- Long warranty
Cons
- So-so stereo speakers
Key Specs
| Display | 15.6-inch Full HD IPS screen |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 2 USB-C ports, mini HDMI |
| Other | Blue light filter, stereo speakers, standard audio jack |
The ViewSonic VA1655 is a solid option if you’re looking for a portable monitor on a tight budget. For less than $150, it offers a sharp display panel, a rich set of connectivity features that include a standard audio jack, and an integrated stand.
Impressively, the IPS screen of the VA1655 has multiple viewing modes, flicker-free tech, and a blue-light filter to protect your eyes. On the other hand, its matte finish ensures you don't have to worry about having a light source behind you while multitasking on the monitor.
The stereo speakers of the VA1655 portable monitor are underwhelming. However, considering its affordable price, I don’t think this is a dealbreaker. The monitor’s retail package, in addition to essential connectivity cables, includes a storage sleeve. ViewSonic backs the product with an impressive three-year warranty.
NexiGo NG17FG Portable Gaming Monitor
NexiGo NG17FG Portable Gaming Monitor
Pros
- Large and bright display with a high-refresh rate
- Excellent set of connectivity features
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Could use a built-in kickstand
Key Specs
| Display | 17.3-inch Full HD IPS, 144 Hz refresh rate |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 2 USB-C ports, USB-A port, HDMI |
| Other | Stereo speakers, audio jack |
The NexiGo NG17FG is the best portable gaming monitor worth your attention. Its 17.3-inch display panel — the biggest on this list — has a maximum refresh rate of 144 Hz for smooth onscreen action. The monitor also has AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync tech, allowing it to deliver tear-free gameplay at high frame rates when paired with a compatible PC or console. The big screen is also convenient for multitasking.
Other key features of the product include a sleek design and an amazing selection of connectivity features, including an audio jack and an old-school USB-A port. Best of all, the NexiGo NG17FG is incredibly well-priced, considering its design and hardware specs.
The product's retail package includes a display cover that doubles as a viewing stand and a trio of cables for taking full advantage of its ports. NexiGo also offers a portable gaming monitor whose display panel (of the same size) can produce an even higher maximum refresh rate of 300 Hz.
INNOCN PU15-PRE Portable Touchscreen Monitor
INNOCN PU15-PRE Portable Touchscreen Monitor
Pros
- Amazing picture quality
- Integrated battery adds versatility
- Sleek design
Cons
- Expensive
Key Specs
| Display | 15.6-inch 4K OLED, touch-sensitive |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Mini HDMI, USB-C |
| Other | USB-C output, stereo speakers, 5,000 mAh battery |
This is the portable monitor to get if you’re looking for the highest resolution and the best picture quality and your budget permits. Sporting a bright 4K OLED touchscreen with millions of individually backlit pixels and infinite contrast capabilities, the INNOCN PU15-PRE will make every interaction a special occasion. It’s great for creative tasks, multitasking, and unwinding during off-hours.
The product is also a stellar option for console gaming in small spaces. I enjoyed many hours of PlayStation 5 gameplay without usurping my household's sole 4K TV on weekends.
A built-in battery with up to 4 hours of screen time between charges is another reason to consider the PU15-PRE. Such independence from a power outlet is great for staying productive on the go.
In a manner befitting its price tag, the portable monitor has slim metal housing (in green), built-in stereo speakers, and intuitive controls. Its rich retail package includes bundled USB-C and mini HDMI cables, a power adapter, and a protective case that doubles as a viewing stand.
I have good news if you're looking for an OLED portable monitor on a tighter budget. INNOCN offers a vastly more affordable 13.3-inch portable monitor with a Full HD display panel.
Stefan is the senior technology editor for BestProducts.com, where he’s been covering the tech industry and testing the latest gadgets since 2015. He has more than a decade of experience covering consumer tech products, especially smartphones, tablets, laptops, and audio gear. He was previously the US editor for GSMArena.com; his work can also be found on Popular Mechanics and other Hearst publications.In the rare moments when he’s not playing with a new gadget, Stefan likes to watch live Premier League games or hang out with his cat and rabbit. He’s also an espresso snob.
