Portable monitors are one of the very cool accessories for various uses — portable monitors have become part of the stock for professionals, gamers and multitaskers. These devices serve you as a second screen, which help to boost your productivity, improve your entertainment experience, and ease the process of multitasking wherever you go. Portable monitors are lightweight by design, and their versatility can make your laptop or tablet into a more powerful workstation.
The demand for these monitors will continue to grow as 2023 moves into 2024 as they find their place in gaming, business presentations, and creative tasks. Whether it’s having a high-refresh-rate display to game on, a monitor to boost your productivity while on business trips, or a monitor for extending your workspace for video editing, the best portable monitor delivers on your needs like nobody else, with the added benefit of convenience that a regular monitor can’t bring you.
Full List of the Best Portable Monitors
Check out our list of the best portable monitors in 2024. They cater to specific needs, which means that gamers, professionals, and average users will find something for themselves. Detailed descriptions of each monitor as well as key features and pros and cons are below to help you decide.
Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE – Best Portable Monitor for Gaming
When it comes to gaming on the go, the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE is a powerhouse. Geared for gamers, you can experience seamless, lag-free visuals with this portable gaming monitor, which also boasts a 144Hz refresh rate. The light-weight design and built-in battery make it perfect when you have a portable setup, be it at a LAN party or on the go.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Connectivity: USB-C, Micro-HDMI
- Battery Life: Up to 3 hours
| Pros | Cons |
| High refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay | For long gaming sessions Battery life can be extended |
| Compact and lightweight design for portability | Higher price compared to other portable monitors |
| Built-in kickstand for flexible positioning | |
| Wide connectivity options for various devices |
ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED – Best Portable 4K Monitor
If you are someone who wants a great way to bring the best wherever he goes — while having good taste in design– the ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED is something of a dream-come true! This 4K portable monitor has resolution that will make your head spin and an OLED experience for natural color, great contrast and crystal-clear visuals brought to life before your eyes. The slim and light design makes now it is for anyone to take but wherever they are. It can even be taken to work with you. This monitor is perfect for remote workers who need a second screen while on their travels, Hollywood-style film editors up late at night without disturbing the household by having two screens turned on simultaneously or people who cherish their private time watching movies.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Ultra HD 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Panel Type: OLED for exceptional color accuracy
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini-HDMI
- Brightness: 400 nits
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning 4K visuals with OLED quality | Higher cost compared to non-4K portable monitors |
| Excellent color reproduction and contrast | May drain power quickly when used with a laptop |
| Compact and travel-friendly | |
| Wide range of connectivity options |
NexiGo NG17FGQ 17.3-Inch 300Hz Portable Monitor
The NexiGo NG17FGQ is a portable game-changer for competitive gamers that require the performance of a desktop monitor on the go. By offering an epic 17.3 inch screen with an industry-leading 300Hz refresh rate, this portable laptop monitor is able to pump out incredibly smooth gameplay and stunning visuals. Its bigger size and high refresh rate make it a great gaming-on-the-go laptop without sacrificing performance.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Refresh Rate: 300Hz for ultra-smooth motion
- Panel Type: IPS for wide viewing angles
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini-HDMI
- Weight: 2.9 pounds
Portability Considerations:
- The monitor is lightweight, making it easy to carry.
- It features a built-in kickstand for versatile positioning during gaming sessions.
| Pros | Cons |
| Exceptional refresh rate for competitive gaming | Heavier than smaller portable monitors, which may impact portability for some users |
| Larger screen size for immersive visuals | High refresh rate may demand more power when connected to a laptop |
| Lightweight and portable for its size | |
| Wide range of compatibility with gaming laptops and consoles |
AOC 16T3EA – The Best Budget Portable Monitor
For the price it has, AOC 16T3EA does an amazing job of blending affordability and functionality, which makes it one of the best portable monitors to look for. It can deliver decent performance with a sharp display, low weight and versatile features for daily applications, and can be suitable for non-intensive tasks such as productivity, presentations or casual media consumption.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: IPS for consistent colors and wide viewing angles
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini-HDMI
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable price for excellent value | Limited advanced features compared to premium portable monitors |
| Slim and lightweight for maximum portability | Lower brightness may not be ideal for outdoor use |
| Full HD resolution delivers good clarity for everyday use | |
| Compatible with most laptops, tablets, and other devices |
Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 – The Best Portable Monitor for Business
Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 is designed for people who need a portable monitor that can serve as a portable screen for laptop setups. This monitor is perfect for business travelers and people in fast work settings–it has advanced touch-screen capability, a light weight design and an array of tools to help you get things done.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 14 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: IPS with touchscreen capability
- Connectivity: Dual USB-C ports with Power Delivery (PD) support
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced touchscreen capability for interactive productivity | Smaller screen size compared to other portable monitors |
| Lightweight and highly portable design | Higher price point due to premium features |
| Dual USB-C ports for versatile connectivity | |
| Excellent build quality tailored for business users |
Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT) – Best Portable Monitor With Touch Input
One of the more multitalented choices for portability that prioritizes interactivity and convenience is the Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT). Be it creative tasks, presentations or multimedia content, this monitor’s advanced touch functionality and compact design make it one of the most impressive portable displays you can get.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: IPS with 10-point multi-touch support
- Connectivity: USB-C, Micro-HDMI
- Battery Life: Built-in 7800mAh battery for extended use
Portability Features:
- Ultra-Slim Design: At just 9mm thick and weighing only 2 pounds, it’s easy to carry alongside your laptop or tablet.
- Built-in Battery: The internal battery supports extended operation without constantly relying on external power sources.
- Smart Cover: Comes with a foldable smart cover that doubles as a stand for multiple viewing angles.
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced touchscreen functionality for interactive use | Slightly heavier compared to non-touch portable monitors |
| Lightweight and slim, making it highly portable | Higher price point for the added touch and battery features |
| Built-in battery for extended, unplugged operation | |
| Excellent display clarity with vibrant colors |
Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW – Best Wireless Portable Monitor
Each of the portable monitors above has pros and cons, but none compare to the Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW, which takes portability and convenience to the next level with its wireless portable monitor functionality. The innovative design allows you to connect your devices through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth instead of messy cables, which makes this perfect for those who want to minimize the clutter that comes with having cables running all over their workspace. The Ricoh monitor enables seamless, wireless connectivity and bright video displays at home, for presentations or on-the-go while working remotely or steaming content.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Connectivity: Wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and USB-C for wired backup
- Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of continuous use
- Weight: 2 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Wireless functionality for easy, cable-free use | Wireless performance can be limited by network stability |
| Long-lasting battery life for extended portability | Higher price point due to advanced wireless capabilities |
| Full HD resolution for clear and vibrant visuals | |
| Lightweight and easy to transport |
The Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW is an excellent option for users who want a wireless portable monitor that is convenient, portable, and flexible. Its user-friendly wireless setup and high battery life are ideal for anyone seeking a clear and portable display solution free from cords and setup headaches.
espressoDisplay – The Best Portable Monitor for MacBook Pro
If you use a MacBook Pro, you should get the espressoDisplay, that is the perfect portable monitor for you. With gorgeous color accuracy and compatibility, the M1. espressoDisplay, is one of the best external displays you can have as a laptop second monitor for professionals, creatives, or people just needing about more screen real estate where they work, keeping the aesthetic and quality of performance expected of Apple devices.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: IPS for exceptional color reproduction
- Connectivity: USB-C, Thunderbolt
- Weight: 1.8 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Exceptional color accuracy for creative professionals | Higher price point, especially considering its premium features |
| Seamless MacBook Pro integration with USB-C or Thunderbolt | Smaller screen size compared to larger portable monitors |
| Sleek, minimalist design that matches Apple’s style | |
| Lightweight and portable for travel |
If you are a MacBook Pro user looking for an on-the-go solution that combines form and function with unparalleled display quality, espressoDisplay is the laptop second monitor for you. The best portable monitor for Apple users who want to boost productivity.
Innocn 15A1F – The Best OLED Portable Monitor
The Innocn 15A1F portable OLED monitor is a class act. It delivers a premium visual experience for anyone looking to take their screen quality with them on the move. Its OLED display provides deep blacks, rich colors, and wide contrast, making it ideal for both creative professionals and entertainment enthusiasts. Benefit from a light weight design that makes it easy to carry around anywhere to play.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: OLED for exceptional color accuracy and contrast
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini-HDMI
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Stunning OLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks | Higher price point due to the OLED technology |
| Lightweight and portable, perfect for travel | Limited to Full HD resolution, though sufficient for most tasks |
| Power-efficient, leading to longer battery life | |
| Wide compatibility with various devices |
The Innocn 15A1F is a premium portable OLED monitor that is the choice of those who want premium visuals in a compact and portable design. It is the perfect choice for those who want impressive display quality and energy efficiency, making it the perfect choice for professionals, creatives and entertainment enthusiasts.
Elecrow CrowVi – The Best Small Portable Monitor
The Elecrow CrowVi is the perfect portable computer monitor for anyone who wants maximum portability and doesn’t want to compromise on the quality of the screen. With a thin and light form factor, it slips into any bag or backpack easily, making it ideal for travelers or professionals who need a secondary display on the go. It’s small, but it gives clear visuals and great usability, making it perfect for on-the-go setups, either professional, for recreation, or for gaming.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 13.3 inches
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type: IPS for vibrant and accurate colors
- Connectivity: USB-C, Mini-HDMI
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely lightweight and compact, easy to carry | Smaller screen size may not be ideal for those who need larger displays for extensive multitasking |
| Quick and easy setup with plug-and-play capability | Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models |
| Full HD resolution for sharp, clear visuals | |
| Versatile compatibility with various devices |
For those who require compact, lightweight, and effective displays, the Elecrow CrowVi is the ideal portable computer monitor for travelers. With its easy setup, portability, and solid performance, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a portable monitor.
Best Portable Monitor of 2024: Buying Guide
The best portable monitor can take you productivity-wise and entertainment-wise to a new level. Whether you’re seeking a best portable monitor for laptop use, or a more all-purpose display for other devices, there are a few key considerations to be aware of to make sure you choose wisely. Here are a few handy tips to consider when making your choice in portable monitor.
1. Screen Size
Importance of screen size in usability and portability of your monitor. Smaller screens — normally somewhere around 13 to 15-inches — are much lighter and easier to move, making them better for travelers or simply anyone who requires a compact optional screen. However, if you need extra screen area for gaming or multitasking, check out larger display options, such as 17-inch models. If you want the best mix of size and portability, a 15.6-inch screen is likely your best bet.
2. Resolution
Resolution is directly related to how clean and crisp the display is. Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is adequate for most users, providing crisp and bright visual images. But if you’re particularly interested in gaming, video editing or graphic design, you’ll want to look for a best portable monitor with a higher resolution, like 4K, for details and accurate images. Higher resolution screens are particularly advantageous when comparing high-definition images or making color-sensitive decisions.
3. Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is how smoothly your screen moves fast-moving visuals. But if you’re using it for gaming, you want a higher refresh rate for smoother gameplay—120Hz and 144Hz mean less motion blur. For common tasks such as word processing or browsing the web, a refresh rate of 60Hz is generally good enough.
4. Weight
Since portability is one of the primary features of portable monitors, weight is an important factor to consider. Lighter displays—generally, less than 2 pounds—are easier to haul and better suited to fit in a bag, making them more useful as a road accessory. Although larger monitors might offer additional screen real estate, weight could be a concern for those who value portability.
5. Connectivity
The connectivity options available on your portable monitor will determine how easily it integrates with your devices. USB-C is among the most prominent and useful connection types that transmits data and power through one cable. For the easiest, most pain-free setup, look for a best portable monitor for laptop that supports USB-C. A few models also have Mini-HDMI support, a great alternative if your laptop or device doesn’t have USB-C ports.
Considering these factors will allow you to choose a portable monitor that meets your needs, from work viewing needs to gaming requirements or general productivity.
Compare Specs
Here’s a quick comparison of the key specifications for all the portable monitors we’ve discussed so far, to help you make an informed decision on which one is best suited for your needs:
| Monitor Model | Screen Size | Resolution | Panel Type | Refresh Rate | Weight | Connectivity | Best For |
| Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 144Hz | 2.3 lbs | USB-C, Micro-HDMI | Portable Gaming Monitor |
| ViewSonic VX1655-4K-OLED | 15.6 inches | 4K (3840 x 2160) | OLED | 60Hz | 2.0 lbs | USB-C, Mini-HDMI | Portable 4K Monitor |
| NexiGo NG17FGQ 17.3-Inch 300Hz Monitor | 17.3 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 300Hz | 3.3 lbs | USB-C, Mini-HDMI | High-Performance Gaming |
| AOC 16T3EA | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.7 lbs | USB-C, Mini-HDMI | Budget Portable Monitor |
| Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 | 14 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.3 lbs | USB-C | Portable Monitor for Business |
| Asus ZenScreen Touch (MB16AMT) | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.7 lbs | USB-C, Micro-HDMI | Portable Monitor with Touch Input |
| Ricoh Portable Monitor 150BW | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.9 lbs | Wireless, USB-C | Wireless Portable Monitor |
| espressoDisplay | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.5 lbs | USB-C, Thunderbolt | Best for MacBook Pro |
| Innocn 15A1F | 15.6 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | OLED | 60Hz | 1.6 lbs | USB-C, Mini-HDMI | Best Portable OLED Monitor |
| Elecrow CrowVi | 13.3 inches | Full HD (1920 x 1080) | IPS | 60Hz | 1.3 lbs | USB-C, Mini-HDMI | Best Small Portable Monitor |
Conclusion
So, it is a very important step in choosing the right portable monitor for laptop or any other device to maximize your productivity, gaming, or business. With so much variety to pick from in 2024, think about what your needs are — whether it’s a high-refresh-rate gaming monitor, a 4K display for incredible detail, or a lightweight and portable monitor for use on business trips.Each portable monitor has its particular benefits. Some, like the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE, are gaming monitors made for smooth, high-refresh gameplay, and others like the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 are built for professionals with touch capabilities and productivity-minded features. A MacBook, an espressoDisplay would make an ideal partner as well, while you’ll be hard-done-elements to find a better value, budget-friendly alternative than the AOC 16T3EA.
