Skip to main content
ubuntuask.com

Back to all posts

What Is A Portable Monitor And How Does It Work?

Published on
8 min read
What Is A Portable Monitor And How Does It Work? image

Best Portable Monitors to Buy in October 2025

1 MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6'' 1080P)

MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6'' 1080P)

  • STUNNING FULL HD DISPLAY: ENJOY VIBRANT COLORS WITH 1920X1080 RESOLUTION.

  • SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY: DUAL USB-C PORTS ENSURE EASY PLUG-AND-PLAY.

  • TRAVEL-FRIENDLY DESIGN: ULTRA-SLIM AND LIGHTWEIGHT FOR EFFORTLESS PORTABILITY.

BUY & SAVE
$79.98 $89.98
Save 11%
MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6'' 1080P)
2 ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor,1080P USB-C HDMI Second External Monitor for Laptop,PC,Mac Phone,PS,Xbox,Swich,IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming Display/Premium Smart Cover

ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor,1080P USB-C HDMI Second External Monitor for Laptop,PC,Mac Phone,PS,Xbox,Swich,IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming Display/Premium Smart Cover

  • EASILY CONNECT ANYWHERE: FEATURES TYPE-C AND MINI HDMI FOR WIDE COMPATIBILITY.

  • VIVID VISUALS: FULL HD 1920X1080 IPS SCREEN ENHANCES COLORS & VIEWING ANGLE.

  • ULTRA-LIGHT & PORTABLE: WEIGHS ONLY 1.52LB; FITS PERFECTLY IN YOUR BAG.

BUY & SAVE
$59.99 $79.99
Save 25%
ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor,1080P USB-C HDMI Second External Monitor for Laptop,PC,Mac Phone,PS,Xbox,Swich,IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming Display/Premium Smart Cover
3 Portable Monitor, 15.6" FHD 1080P Travel Portable Monitor for Laptops, Ultra-Slim External Portable Screen for Laptop with Kickstand, Screen Extender for Laptop PC Mac Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch

Portable Monitor, 15.6" FHD 1080P Travel Portable Monitor for Laptops, Ultra-Slim External Portable Screen for Laptop with Kickstand, Screen Extender for Laptop PC Mac Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch

  • STUNNING 15.6 FHD 1080P HDR IPS DISPLAY FOR VIBRANT VISUALS.

  • PLUG-AND-PLAY SETUP-CONNECT INSTANTLY TO MOST MODERN LAPTOPS!

  • ULTRA-SLIM, LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN-IDEAL FOR TRAVEL AND REMOTE WORK.

BUY & SAVE
$49.99
Portable Monitor, 15.6" FHD 1080P Travel Portable Monitor for Laptops, Ultra-Slim External Portable Screen for Laptop with Kickstand, Screen Extender for Laptop PC Mac Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch
4 cocopar Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P Travel Monitor with Speaker HDMI USB-C External Display for Laptop MacBook Surface PC Xbox PS4/5, with Cover Stand VESA

cocopar Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P Travel Monitor with Speaker HDMI USB-C External Display for Laptop MacBook Surface PC Xbox PS4/5, with Cover Stand VESA

  • BOOST PRODUCTIVITY WITH EXTEND & MIRROR MODES FOR ANY LAPTOP!

  • PLUG & PLAY: EFFORTLESS SETUP WITH USB-C AND MINI HDMI PORTS.

  • LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE: YOUR IDEAL COMPANION FOR ON-THE-GO WORK!

BUY & SAVE
$169.99
cocopar Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P Travel Monitor with Speaker HDMI USB-C External Display for Laptop MacBook Surface PC Xbox PS4/5, with Cover Stand VESA
5 ARZOPA 16.1'' 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox-Z1FC

ARZOPA 16.1'' 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox-Z1FC

  • EXPERIENCE 144HZ ULTRA-SMOOTH VISUALS FOR UNMATCHED GAMING CLARITY.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN WITH KICKSTAND FOR ULTIMATE PORTABILITY AND COMFORT.
  • HIGH-RES 1080P FHD IPS DISPLAY FOR VIBRANT COLORS AND DETAILED IMAGES.
BUY & SAVE
$129.99 $139.99
Save 7%
ARZOPA 16.1'' 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 106% sRGB 1080P FHD Kickstand Portable Monitor with HDR, Ultra Slim, Eye Care, External Second Screen for Laptop, PC, PS5, Mac, Xbox-Z1FC
6 UFYQL Portable Monitor 15.6-inch FHD 1080P Ultra-Slim Travel External Monitor HDR IPS Gaming Display with Kickstand &Speakers USB-C HDMI Plug&Play,for Laptop PC Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch

UFYQL Portable Monitor 15.6-inch FHD 1080P Ultra-Slim Travel External Monitor HDR IPS Gaming Display with Kickstand &Speakers USB-C HDMI Plug&Play,for Laptop PC Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch

  • FHD 1080P DISPLAY WITH HDR FOR VIBRANT COLORS AND SMOOTH VISUALS.

  • WIDE COMPATIBILITY WITH LAPTOPS, CONSOLES, AND DEVICES VIA USB-C.

  • ULTRA-PORTABLE DESIGN WITH ADJUSTABLE KICKSTAND FOR TRAVEL-FRIENDLY USE.

BUY & SAVE
$47.41 $61.99
Save 24%
UFYQL Portable Monitor 15.6-inch FHD 1080P Ultra-Slim Travel External Monitor HDR IPS Gaming Display with Kickstand &Speakers USB-C HDMI Plug&Play,for Laptop PC Phone PS4/5 Xbox Switch
7 ASUS ZenScreen 16” Portable USB Monitor (MB169CK) - Full HD, IPS, Dual USB-C, Mini-HDMI, Eye Care, Flicker Free, Blue Light Filter, Anti-Glare Surface, 360° Kickstand, 3 yr Warranty

ASUS ZenScreen 16” Portable USB Monitor (MB169CK) - Full HD, IPS, Dual USB-C, Mini-HDMI, Eye Care, Flicker Free, Blue Light Filter, Anti-Glare Surface, 360° Kickstand, 3 yr Warranty

  • ULTRA-SLIM 15.6 FHD PORTABLE DISPLAY FOR EASY ON-THE-GO WORK.

  • USB-C CONNECTIVITY FOR SEAMLESS COMPATIBILITY WITH MODERN DEVICES.

  • TÜV-CERTIFIED EYE CARE TECH ENSURES COMFORTABLE PROLONGED VIEWING.

BUY & SAVE
$109.00
ASUS ZenScreen 16” Portable USB Monitor (MB169CK) - Full HD, IPS, Dual USB-C, Mini-HDMI, Eye Care, Flicker Free, Blue Light Filter, Anti-Glare Surface, 360° Kickstand, 3 yr Warranty
8 Ingnok Portable Monitor, Ultra Slim 15.6 Inch FHD IPS Laptop Screen Extender with Adjustable Stand, USB C Compatible, Ideal for Travel and Office

Ingnok Portable Monitor, Ultra Slim 15.6 Inch FHD IPS Laptop Screen Extender with Adjustable Stand, USB C Compatible, Ideal for Travel and Office

  • ULTRA-THIN & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN FOR ULTIMATE PORTABILITY
  • STUNNING FHD DISPLAY FOR VIVID VISUAL EXPERIENCE
  • QUICK USB-C CONNECTION FOR SEAMLESS DEVICE COMPATIBILITY
BUY & SAVE
$81.99
Ingnok Portable Monitor, Ultra Slim 15.6 Inch FHD IPS Laptop Screen Extender with Adjustable Stand, USB C Compatible, Ideal for Travel and Office
+
ONE MORE?

A portable monitor is a lightweight, compact display that can be easily transported and connected to various devices such as laptops, desktops, tablets, or even smartphones. It serves as an additional screen, providing extra display space that can enhance productivity by allowing users to extend their desktop or mirror the content of their primary device. Portable monitors work by connecting to a device through common interfaces like USB, HDMI, or USB-C. Once connected, the monitor receives video signals from the primary device, effectively serving as an external display. Most portable monitors do not require a separate power source, as they can draw power through the connecting cable, especially when using USB-C. This feature makes them particularly convenient for users on the go who need an extra screen for work, gaming, or media consumption without the hassle of using an AC adapter. The display quality, resolution, and additional features like touch sensitivity or built-in speakers can vary depending on the model, catering to different needs and preferences.

How to extend your desktop with multiple monitors?

Extending your desktop with multiple monitors can significantly improve your productivity and enhance your computing experience. Here’s a general guide on how to set up multiple monitors:

1. Check your hardware capabilities

  • Graphics Card: Ensure your graphics card supports multiple monitors. Check the number of HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA ports available, and ensure it can handle the resolution of the additional monitors.
  • Laptop Users: Check if your laptop has multiple video outputs or supports USB display adapters.

2. Gather necessary equipment

  • Monitors: Make sure all monitors support the necessary input type, whether HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.
  • Cables and Adapters: Get the necessary cables or adapters to connect the monitors to the computer's video output ports.

3. Connect the monitors

  • Physically connect each monitor to the computer using the appropriate cables.
  • Use adapters if your computer or monitors have different types of ports (e.g., HDMI to DisplayPort).

4. Configure display settings (Windows)

  • Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
  • In the display settings window, you'll see a diagram of your monitors. You can rearrange them to match their physical layout.
  • Scroll down to the Multiple displays section and choose Extend these displays from the dropdown menu.
  • Set the resolutions for each monitor. Ensure each one is running at its native resolution for the best display quality.
  • Click Apply to confirm your settings.

5. Configure display settings (Mac)

  • Click on the Apple Menu and select System Preferences.
  • Go to Displays and click on the Arrangement tab.
  • Drag the displays to arrange them in your desired configuration.
  • Make sure the Mirror Displays checkbox is unchecked to extend rather than duplicate your display.

6. Configure display settings (Linux)

  • For environments like GNOME or KDE, go to Settings or System Settings.
  • Look for Displays or Screen Display options.
  • Arrange your monitors and select settings to extend the display.
  • Apply the changes.

7. Adjust settings and preferences

  • Fine-tune refresh rates and color settings as needed for optimal performance and comfort.
  • Organize your desktop icons and taskbars according to your workflow.

8. Troubleshooting

  • If a monitor is not displaying, double-check connections and ensure the monitor is powered on.
  • Update your video drivers if there are issues with the display.
  • Check your computer's manual or support site for additional configuration options specific to your hardware.

By following these steps, you should be able to extend your desktop across multiple monitors successfully. Adjusting to multiple screens might take a little practice, but it can greatly enhance tasks such as multitasking, data analysis, or graphic design.

What is a portable power bank for monitors?

A portable power bank for monitors is a device designed to provide power to computer monitors and similar electronic devices on the go, without needing a direct connection to an electrical outlet. These power banks are particularly useful for mobile workstations or when using monitors in locations where power sources are not readily accessible, such as during travel, outdoor events, or in remote areas.

Here are some key features typically associated with portable power banks for monitors:

  1. Capacity: These power banks usually have a high-capacity battery, often measured in milliamp-hours (mAh) or watt-hours (Wh), to ensure they can supply sufficient power to a monitor for several hours.
  2. Output Options: They often come with multiple output ports, such as USB, USB-C, and AC outlets, allowing them to be compatible with various monitor power requirements.
  3. Voltage and Wattage Compatibility: They should provide the necessary voltage and wattage to match the power requirements of the monitor. Most monitors require a certain wattage to operate, so the power bank should be able to supply this consistently.
  4. Design and Portability: These power banks are designed to be portable, often being compact and lightweight for ease of transport.
  5. Rechargeability: They can be recharged via AC adapters or sometimes through solar panels, depending on the model.
  6. Safety Features: Good models include safety features such as overcharge protection, short circuit protection, and temperature control to protect both the power bank and the connected device.

When choosing a portable power bank for monitors, it’s important to check the monitor’s power specifications to ensure compatibility. Additionally, assess your typical usage scenarios to select a power bank with sufficient capacity and the necessary features to meet your needs.

What is a frameless monitor and its benefits?

A frameless monitor, also known as a bezel-less or edge-to-edge monitor, is a display screen designed with minimal or no visible borders around the screen. Here are some benefits of frameless monitors:

  1. Aesthetic Appeal: Frameless monitors have a sleek and modern look, which can enhance the visual appeal of a workspace or home setup.
  2. Immersive Viewing Experience: The absence of thick bezels allows for a more immersive viewing experience, making these monitors ideal for gaming, watching movies, or any activity where screen immersion is important.
  3. Better Multi-Monitor Configurations: When using multiple monitors side by side, frameless designs help minimize the visual interruption between screens, creating a more seamless and continuous display area.
  4. Space-Saving: Frameless monitors can take up less physical space, since the lack of thick bezels reduces the overall dimensions of the monitor.
  5. Enhanced Productivity: The continuity of screen space in multi-monitor setups can boost productivity by making it easier to extend applications and view multiple documents or windows simultaneously.
  6. Modern Design: They often complement modern or minimalist interior designs, fitting well with contemporary office decors.
  7. Portability: Some frameless monitors are also designed to be lighter and thinner, adding to their portability and ease of installation or movement.

While frameless monitors offer these advantages, they may also come at a higher price point compared to traditional monitors, so it's worth considering your specific needs and budget when choosing a monitor.

What is the aspect ratio and why does it matter?

Aspect ratio refers to the proportional relationship between the width and height of a display screen or an image. It is usually expressed as a ratio, such as 16:9, 4:3, or 21:9. This ratio informs you how many units wide an image is compared to how many units tall it is.

The aspect ratio is important for several reasons:

  1. Content Display: Different types of content are designed with specific aspect ratios in mind. For instance, most modern televisions and websites typically use a 16:9 aspect ratio, as it is well-suited for widescreen formats and HD content. Understanding the aspect ratio ensures that content is displayed correctly without being stretched or compressed.
  2. Compatibility: Knowing the aspect ratio is important to ensure that images, videos, and games fit well on the display they are intended for. Compatibility issues can arise if the aspect ratios do not match, leading to letterboxing (black bars), cropping, or distortion.
  3. Cinematic Experience: In the film industry, different aspect ratios like 21:9 are often used to create a more immersive viewing experience, resembling the formats used in commercial movie theaters.
  4. Design Considerations: For graphic designers, photographers, and videographers, the aspect ratio influences composition and aesthetic choices. It determines how a scene is framed and can affect the overall impact of the visual media.
  5. Technical Requirements: Certain devices and platforms may have specific aspect ratio requirements, necessitating adjustments to content to avoid quality loss.

Understanding aspect ratio helps ensure that visual content is displayed as intended across different devices and platforms, maintaining the visual integrity and intended experience of the media.