Overview
Portable monitors are a must-have accessory for anyone who needs to work or play on the go. These lightweight and compact displays can easily fit into a backpack or laptop bag and provide additional screen real estate wherever you need it. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to find the best portable monitor for your needs.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Asus ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor
- Best Budget: AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim Portable Monitor
- Best for Gaming: GAEMS M155 Full HD 1080P Portable Gaming Monitor
- Best for Productivity: HP EliteDisplay S14 14-Inch Portable Monitor
- Best for Design: UPERFECT 15.6-Inch 4K Portable Monitor
How to Choose the Best Portable Monitors?
Size:
The size of a portable monitor is an essential factor to consider, as it can impact your portability and viewing experience. Portable monitors come in various sizes, ranging from 13 inches to 17 inches. The size you choose will depend on your personal preferences and intended use. For example, if you need a secondary display for your laptop while on the go, a 15-inch monitor like the Asus ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor may be the best option.
Resolution:
The resolution of a portable monitor refers to the number of pixels that the screen can display. A higher resolution means a sharper image with more details, which is especially important for design work or gaming. Portable monitors offer a range of resolutions, with the maximum being 4K. The UPERFECT 15.6-Inch 4K Portable Monitor, for example, offers ultra-high resolution for detailed visuals.
Portability:
The portability of a portable monitor is a crucial factor to consider, as it can impact how easily you can take the monitor with you. Portable monitors come in different weights and thicknesses, with some models being more portable than others. The AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim Portable Monitor, for example, is incredibly lightweight and thin, making it easy to carry in a laptop bag.
Connectivity:
The connectivity options of a portable monitor are also essential to consider, as they can impact how easily you can connect the monitor to your other devices. Portable monitors offer a range of connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort. The HP EliteDisplay S14 14-Inch Portable Monitor, for example, features USB-C connectivity, making it easy to connect to your laptop or other USB-C devices.
Refresh Rate:
The refresh rate of a portable monitor refers to the number of times per second the screen refreshes itself. A higher refresh rate means smoother motion and less motion blur, which is especially important for gaming. Portable monitors offer refresh rates ranging from 60Hz to 144Hz. The GAEMS M155 Full HD 1080P Portable Gaming Monitor, for example, offers a high refresh rate for a smooth gaming experience.
Panel Type:
The panel type of a portable monitor determines its viewing angles, color accuracy, and response time. Portable monitors offer three different panel types: TN, IPS, and VA. TN panels are known for their fast response times and low input lag, making them ideal for gaming. IPS panels offer wider viewing angles and better color accuracy, making them ideal for design work. VA panels offer deep blacks and high contrast ratios, making them ideal for watching movies. The Asus ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor, for example, features an IPS panel for excellent color accuracy.
FAQs
1. What is the resolution of portable monitors?
Portable monitors offer a range of resolutions, with some models offering ultra-high resolutions like 4K.
2. Are portable monitors good for gaming?
Yes, portable monitors can be a great option for gamers who want to take their gaming on the go. Look for a portable monitor with a high refresh rate and low response time for the best gaming experience.
3. What is the difference between a portable monitor and a regular monitor?
Portable monitors are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry around, while regular monitors are larger and more stationary.
4. Can portable monitors be used as the primary display?
Yes, portable monitors can be used as the primary display for a laptop or other device. However, they may not offer the same level of performance as a regular monitor.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a digital nomad, a gamer, or just looking for a convenient way to extend your laptop’s display, there is a portable monitor out there for you. With our top picks for the best portable monitors, you can find a display that is lightweight, compact, and offers high performance, making it the perfect addition to your mobile setup.