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.
Best Portable Monitors of January 2025
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Rating is 5 out of 5
VisionOwl Large Portable Monitor-18.5 Inch Computer Gaming Display 100Hz 125% sRGB FHD 1080P USB-C HDMI IPS Screen for Laptop Mac Surface PC PS4/PS5 Xbox Built-in Kickstand, Speakers, VESA Mountable
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18.5-inch Large Screen, Lightweight: Equipped with an 18.5-inch 1080p FHD IPS large screen, the VisionOwl portable gaming monitor was designed to create a larger viewing experience. Weighing only 2.7 Lb, 0.24-inch in minimum thickness, and 0.55-inch in maximum thickness, the VisionOwl portable monitor can also be easily carried for travel, work, or relocation
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100Hz High Refresh Rate Monitor: Compared to low refresh rate monitors, the VisionOwl external monitor for laptop with a 100hz high refresh rate features 125% sRGB (88%NTSC) and 8-bit color depth with 16.7M colors. It is able to provide a smoother and more exciting gaming experience by displaying more frames per second and reducing lag and motion blur, allowing you to gain an advantage over opponents in the game
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Wide Compatibility, Well Designed: With two USB-C ports and one upgraded standard HDMI port, the VisionOwl portable screen can be easily connected to any major device on the market, such as all Apple MacBooks, Surface, laptops, PC, Xbox, PS5, and more. If your device has a Thunderbolt 3/4 or Full-Featured USB-C port, all you need is a single USB-C to USB-C cable to connect without any hassle
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Rating is 4.9 out of 5
ForHelp Portable Monitor 15.6inch,1080P USB-C HDMI Second External Monitor for Laptop,PC,Mac Phone,PS,Xbox,Swich,IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming Monitor/Premium Smart Cover
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Extensive Compatibility - Forhelp portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable. NOTE: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE. It is compatible with all devices equipped with HDMI and USB Type-C ports like laptops, PS, XBOX, SWITCH game consoles.
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Full HD Portable Monitor - 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution, advanced IPS Matte screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into the video or game with lifelike colors and amazing detail.It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time.
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Ultra-slim Portable Monitor - As a portable external monitor, Forhelp portable laptop monitor's body is made of aluminum alloy, the weight of the whole machine is 1.8lb, 0.3" ultra-thin profile, can easily fit into your bag, so you can carry it with you. With our magnetic smart holster, you can use and store it anytime.
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Rating is 4.8 out of 5
VILVA Portable-Monitor-for-Laptop - 15.6'' 1080P FHD IPS Display USB-C HDMI Portable Monitor for Laptop with Cover and Speakers External Monitor for Laptop/PC/Mac/Phone/Xbox Switch/PS4/
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Experience Unrivaled Visuals: Get the ultimate viewing experience with the VILVA Professional Portable Monitor! With its incredibly sharp 15.6 inch FHD IPS Screen, you'll get a 1920 x 1080 resolution that viewing experience. Get it now and start working smarter, not harder and get yourself the professional portable monitor today.
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Truly Wide Compatibility: Lets you connect your laptop, PC, MAC, tablet, phone, XBOX, PS3/PS4/PS5, switches, and more via USB-C or HDMI Port-- deliver a stable connection and steady data transmission. Enjoy great sound with the built-in dual stereo speakers, perfect for your business trip, travel, or home entertainment gaming setup.
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
ALLVIA Laptop Screen Extender 14" 1080P FHD IPS, Portable Monitor for Laptop 13-17", Triple Monitor Extended for laptops with Dual Speakers, Plug-Play with Type-C/HDMI/USB-A for Wins/Mac/Chrome
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Important Notes: The laptop multiple screens attachment works with Windows, ChromeOS, Linux, and Full-Featured Type-C phones. Note 1: For Mac series or laptops lack sufficient HDMI+USB A/C ports, search "B0CY8CLGYY" for the special cable. Note 2: If one screen displays "No Signal," it means the laptop output power is insufficient, requiring extra power for that screen. Note 3: If you have compatibility concerns with our S2 tri-screen for laptops, contact us before purchasing.
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Let's turn your laptop display into 3 monitors, with the additional 2 screens capable of extension/mirror mode to expand your laptop's multi-screen synchronization and differentiation, enabling multitasking simultaneously and boosting productivity by up to 300%.
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Better Visuals from 14” Screen: ALLVIA laptop monitor extender, with 1920*1080 resolution and 300 nits brightness, ensures clarity even in well-lit environments. The 72% NTSC color gamut offers lifelike colors, while the 1000:1 contrast ratio sharpens images. HDR technology enhances the dynamic range for realistic visuals and immersive viewing. Efficient backlighting boosts brightness overall. The double screen for laptop features anti-vertigo and low blue light to protect your eyes
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Rating is 4.6 out of 5
ARZOPA Portable Monitor, 15.6'' 1080P FHD Laptop Monitor USB C HDMI Computer Display HDR Eye Care External Screen w/Smart Cover for Mac Phone Xbox Switch PS5-S1 Table
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Second Monitor: The ARZOPA portable monitor can very well act as your secondmonitor and improve your work efficiency. You can work and perform multiple taskssimultaneously while using this monitor
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FHD IPS Screen: Designed with a 15.6-inch display, the screen features 1080P, FHD,IPS and anti-glare display. The 60Hz high resolution brings excellent richness in color ofpictures, videos, work and screen quality
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Plug and Play: There is no need of app and drivers, you only need one USB-C cable toset the portable monitor for its video signal and power to deliver a full HD resolutionviewing. (Phones need full-featured USB port)
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
ViewSonic VA1655 15.6 Inch 1080p Portable IPS Monitor with a Built-in Stand, Mobile Ergonomics, USB C, Mini HDMI and Protective Case for Home and Office,Black
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ULTRA-PORTABLE MONITOR: 15.6 Inch Full HD (1920x1080p) IPS portable monitor with 60Hz refresh rate
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SMALL AND COMPACT: With a weight of 1.5 lbs and a thickness of 0.7 in, this portable monitor slips easily into backpacks and purses
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LESS CABLE CLUTTER: USB-C connectivity for fast data, audio and video transfer, and 60W charging over one cable
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Rating is 4.4 out of 5
CIDETTY Laptop Screen Extender, 14'' FHD 1080P IPS Ultra-Thin Dual/Triple Monitor Display, HDMI/USB-C Plug-Play Portable Monitor for Laptop, Built-in Speakers(Mac, Win, Android)
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【High-quality Screen】CIDETTY portable monitor features a 14-inch FHD 1080P IPS screen that delivers excellent color rendering and provides a bright and high-quality viewing experience. The screen is equipped with blue light filtering and anti-glare technology, ensuring eye protection and a more comfortable viewing experience, even during prolonged use.
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【Broad Compatibility】CIDETTY laptop screen extender is plug-and-play. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and works with Laptops, PS, Xbox, and Switch. Please note that it is not compatible with Macbook with M1, M2, or M3 chips or Surface devices with only one Type-C port. If you encounter any connection issues, please contact our customer service for assistance.
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【Ultra-slim Portable Display】CIDETTY USB-C monitor features built-in speakers and has a screen thickness of only 0.24 inches. It comes with a dedicated protective case for easy portability, making it ideal for dual monitor setups during travel or work on-the-go, as well as for extending phone screens for watching movies.
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Rating is 4.3 out of 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
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16.1" 144Hz Display: Arzopa Z1FC 16.1" portable monitor has 144Hz ultra-high refresh rate for higher motion clarity and smoother gaming visuals. The 144Hz high refresh rate brings lower input latency and higher videos, work and game screen quality（no adaptive sync or freesync）
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Portable Monitor with Kickstand: The portable gaming monitor comes with a built-in stand that allows for easy adjustment of the tilt angle to accommodate different usage needs. Lightweight and easier to carry
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106% sRGB IPS Screen: The 16.1" portable monitor features 1080P FHD high-definition resolution and 106% sRGB gamut brings clear picture quality, immerse yourself in vibrant colors and crisp details
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Rating is 4.2 out of 5
UPERFECT 2K 120Hz Portable Gaming Monitor, 16" 2560x1600 QHD Portable Monitor HDR FreeSync Laptop Monitor w/VESA & Smart Case Matte IPS Eye Care External Second Screen for PC Phone Game Console
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Optimized for Portable Gaming: 2K QHD resolution and amazing 120 Hz refresh rate give you the edge in all your gaming quests; Equipped with FreeSync technology and HDR function to eliminate image tearing and stuttering for higher motion clarity and smoother gameplay
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16" 2K Portable Laptop Monitor: UPERFECT 16 inches portable monitor with 2560 x 1600p resolution, clearer than 1080P; Provide you with a clearer, more realistic and more vivid image for the ultimate experience; Slim at 0.4" and weighing 1.7lbs, easy to carry and helps you be productive on the go or connect your gaming device to play anytime, anywhere; Four-side ultra-narrow bezel design brings you an immersive visual experience
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IPS Matte Screen with 100% sRGB: Compared with ordinary LCD screens, the IPS screen has a wider viewing angle - 178°, higher contrast ratio - 1200:1, wider color gamut - 100% sRGB, color depth - 8 bits/16.7 million color support; Compared with the glossy screen, the matte screen eliminates the trouble caused by reflection and protects the eyes to a certain extent; Anti-fingerprint, the best choice for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
ASUS ZenScreen 16” (15.6 inch viewable) 1080P USB-C Portable Monitor (MB16AHV) - Full HD, IPS, Blue Light Filter, Anti-glare, Mini HDMI, Kickstand, Tripod Mountable, Protective Sleeve, 3 year warranty
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15.6-inch Full HD portable anti-glare IPS display with an ultraslim and thin design helps you get things done more efficiently when you’re on the go
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Kickstand design prop the monitor up in either portrait or landscape mode easily
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Standard tripod socket allows the display to be easily mounted for comfortable eye-level viewing
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Rating is 4 out of 5
Laptop Screen Extender Monitor Portable: 14" Triple Screen Laptop Monitor Extender, 1080P FHD IPS Laptop Monitor Extender with Stand Compatible, Plug & Play Laptop Screen Extender for Wins/Mac/Chro
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Wide Compatibility for Multiple Devices: The laptop screen extender works with 13"-16" laptops and is compatible with Windows, Mac (excluding M1/M2/M3 chip models), Chrome, and Switch. It adapts seamlessly to home office setups, business travel, online meetings, and more.
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Triple Screen Sync for 3x Productivity: This triple screen laptop monitor extender instantly transforms your laptop with two additional screens, enabling extended and mirror modes to manage multiple tasks at once. Ideal for busy professionals, developers, designers, or anyone who needs multiple windows open, it significantly boosts productivity.
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Plug and Play, Easy Setup: No drivers needed—this portable laptop screen extender supports USB-A/C and HDMI connections for a simple, fast setup. The plug-and-play design lets you expand your screens effortlessly, saving time and hassle with no complex setup required.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Design and Portability: These power banks are designed to be portable, often being compact and lightweight for ease of transport.
- Rechargeability: They can be recharged via AC adapters or sometimes through solar panels, depending on the model.
- 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:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Frameless monitors have a sleek and modern look, which can enhance the visual appeal of a workspace or home setup.
- 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.
- 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.
- Space-Saving: Frameless monitors can take up less physical space, since the lack of thick bezels reduces the overall dimensions of the monitor.
- 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.
- Modern Design: They often complement modern or minimalist interior designs, fitting well with contemporary office decors.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
