10 Best Portable Monitors in 2021
In an era of remote working, portable screens and devices have never been more important. Having extra screen real estate is always a plus, whether you need it for work or for entertainment. This is suitable for individuals who are always on the move, or people who do not have a lot of desk space to work with. Free from the use of many cables, and the need to permanently mount it somewhere, you can see why you could be easily convinced to switch over to portable monitors.
The best portable monitors will offer a large enough screen with at least a 1080p resolution. Connection ports, viewing angles, eye care mode, software compatibility, and different screen modes are all features that should be included in any portable monitor you choose. To help you choose, we made a list of some of the best monitors you can find on the market today.
Our Best Picks of Portable Monitors
Zissu’s Slim Portable Monitor
ASUS Portable Monitor
Lepow Portable Monitors
10. Trio Portable Laptop Monitors
As the best portable monitor from Trio, this product gives you the ability to turn your laptop screen into a dual or triple screen display. The triple screen mode is suitable for avid gamers who would like a bigger and more vivid gaming experience. Also, this Trio screen is compatible with android phones and Nintendo switch, and no dock is necessary. The screen is 12.5 inches and has a resolution of 1080P offering a rich viewing experience.
The dual-screen is suitable for work and allows you to drag content from one screen to another. It features plug and play support thanks to it supporting USB-A, USB-B and USB-C ports. The ergonomic design supports all viewing handles and the screen is suitable for both right-handed and left-handed individuals.
- Creates a dual or triple monitor
- Compatible with Windows, MacBook, Android, and Chrome
Cons
- Users report it is incompatible with Windows 10
9. Virzen Portable Monitor
This portable monitor offers the ultimate entertainment experience thanks to the built-in dual speakers that offer crystal clear sounds. Also, the screen measures 15.6 inches and is Full High Definition with a resolution of 1080p. Thanks to its leather cover stand, you can easily carry this device with you anywhere you go and use it for work or play. The device allows for plug and play, which means that no drivers are necessary.
Even though the best portable monitor from Virzen only offers a USB-C port, it does come inclusive on an adapter that allows for connections from USB-A and USB-B devices. This extends the range of devices you can use with this monitor. The screen also offers a wide viewing angle.
- 15.6 inches FHD 1080p screen
- USB-C connection port with an adapter
- Compatible with laptops, PCs, smartphones, and gaming devices
Cons
- Users complain of low speaker volume
8. EVICIV Portable Monitor
If you are looking for the best portable monitor suitable for both work and entertainment, then this product from EVICIV is your best choice. It prides itself on being one of the slimmest portable monitors you can find on the market today. Additionally, it also boasts the ultimate viewing experience with a bezel-less frame and a 4K Ultra High Definition screen. Get vivid true-to-life images thanks to the 16.7 million colors it supports. The screen emits ultra-low blue light to protect your eyes.
You can choose to use this monitor in portrait or landscape mode. The monitor also supports wall mounting, if you need to free up some desk space. With the mini HDMI port and a USB Type C, you can easily connect your devices to share screens.
- Frameless bezel for an immersive viewing experience
- 4K UHD screen
- Lightweight and slim
Cons
- Comes with a very short charging cable
7. Trio Max Portable Monitor
Another best portable monitor from Trio makes it onto our review. This 14-inch 1080p monitor is best paired with 15 to 17-inch laptop screens. With plug and play support, you can easily connect your monitor to any of your smart devices and game consoles. Simply plug your device in and you’ll be ready to go, with no drivers necessary.
It’s no secret that all this time we spend looking at different screens does put a strain on our eyes. Thankfully, Trio included an eyecare mode with this monitor that helps reduce the glare and the blue light emitted, which in turn helps reduce the strain on your eyes.
The device also allows for back charging which can come in handy when you need to give the monitor a battery boost.
- Eyecare mode to reduce eyestrain
- Plug and play support
- Supports back charging.
Cons
- Users complain of poor customer support
6. Zissu’s Slim Portable Monitor
With a thickness of only 0.16 inches, it ultra-thin and very portable. Suitable for digital nomads on the go, or anyone who likes to get a little bit of work or fun in while on the move. The thinness means that it can easily slide into your bag, and you’ll barely notice it is there. It also occupies the least amount of space on your desktop.
Watch your screen come to life courtesy of the 1080 FHD plus HDR resolution screen. If entertainment is the reason you are purchasing this best portable monitor, then you will truly enjoy the immersive experience. With ultra-thin bezels, you can enjoy images being brought to life.
The monitor comes with 2 USB-C ports, an HDMI cable, and a USB-C to USB-A cable.
- Stylish matte finish design
- 1080P FHD screen resolution
- Ultra-thin bezel design
Cons
- The USB-C to USB-A cable works for power supply only
5. Newsoul FHD Portable Monitor
This best portable monitor from Newsoul comes with all the interfaces you could want in a portable monitor. There are HDMI, Type C, Mini DP, and PD ports. These ports are more than enough for your connectivity needs. Connect your monitor, mouse, keyboard, gaming console or PC to this monitor for extra screen real estate.
The package includes a screen protector and a smart cover. Screen protectors come in handy and they can save you money in terms of screen repairs should you accidentally drop the monitor or drop something on it.
To give you a truly entertaining experience this monitor comes not only with a 15.6-inch FHD 1080P screen, but loud dual stereo speakers; transform your gaming and movie nights.
- 15.6 FHD 1080P screen
- Built-in dual loud stereo speakers
- Comes inclusive of a smart cover and screen protector
Cons
- Users report receiving used portable monitors
4. ASUS Portable Monitor
You can easily carry this monitor with you anywhere you go thanks to its 0.3-inch thickness and 800g weight. You will barely notice that you have it in your bag. You’ll certainly look stylish as you hold it thanks to its metallic finish.
The monitor comes with a USB 3.0 cable that you can use for data transmission and a power supply. The device is back charging enabled provided you use a desktop or a notebook. The monitor is compatible with Mac OS X 1083 and Windows 7 onwards. The Full HD screen is suitable for gaming, entertainment, and work.
If you find that you suffer from eye fatigue, you’ll appreciate that the best portable monitor from Asus comes with a blue-light filter. This will help reduce eye strain.
- Portable, thin and lightweight
- Auto-rotate with a case sleeve
- Blue light filter
Cons
- Not compatible with MacBook and MacBook Pro
3. Lepow Portable Monitors
If you are looking for a screen that offers stunning visuals and true-to-life color representation then you’ll love the best portable monitor from Lepow. Enjoy great visuals on a 15.6-inch screen that is large enough for you to enjoy entertainment or work. The Full HD 1080P resolution produces crystal clear images.
The monitor comes with a smart cover and a screen protector. The cover is made from strong PU leather while the lining is soft. This will help protect your monitor from accidental falls, bumps, and scratches. You can also fold the cover in different ways to accommodate typing, watching and reading. The built-in stereo speakers further enhance your entertainment experience.
This portable monitor is compatible with phones, laptops, Wii, PCs, XBOX One, and play station.
- 15.6-inch Full HD 1080P screen
- Comes with a smart cover and a screen protector
- Type-C and mini HDMI port
Cons
- Users report inconsistent device connection
2. AOC Portable Monitors
This model from AOC comes with a Flexi-stand that enables you to use the monitor in portrait and landscape mode. In landscape mode, the monitor is suitable for presentations, viewing spreadsheets, watching movies and gaming. If you need to free up space on your desk, you can simply mount your monitor on the wall since it comes with a wall-mount compliant feature.
You can link multiple devices to your monitor and to do so, you need to install Display Link Software. This software will enable you to add multiple USB devices for external displays. This best portable monitor from AOC features such a slim design that you won’t have trouble carrying it with you wherever you go. The monitor comes with a carry case.
- Only one cable is necessary for both power and signal
- Brighter than average screen
- 15.6-inch screen with large viewing angles
Cons
- The screen lacks HD and Full HD quality
1. Duex Portable Monitors
This best portable monitor from Duex offers a 12.5-inch FHD screen with a resolution of 1080p. This allows you to enjoy your favorite movies or games or even catch up on work in a vivid color presentation. The monitor allows you to easily connect to your phone, PCs, or game consoles to give you extra screen real estate. You get several connection ports including USB Type A and Type C. The monitor is compatible with Windows, Mac and Chromebook.
Weighing in at just 1.7lbs and with a thickness of 0.48 inches, you can carry this portable monitor anywhere you go. Its slimness ensures that you can easily slide it into your bag, and you’ll barely notice it is there. The device comes with a 1-year warranty.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, Chromebook
- Energy saving
- Comes with both USB type A and type C cables
Cons
- Users complain that it does not include free returns.
Frequently Asked Questions – Portable Monitors
These are frequently asked questions related to the best portable monitors.
Q: What is a portable monitor and what can I use it for?
A: A portable monitor is a device that essentially expands the screen capacity of another device like your phone, laptop, or PC. This monitor tends to be thin, lightweight and compact. It makes it easy to carry the device around, thus allowing you to work or be entertained on the go.
Q: Can I use the best portable monitors for photo and video editing?
A: There are two kinds of panels available on the market that allow you to do all the things you can do on a portable monitor. The panels are IPS and TN and monitors with an IPS panel are best suited for photo and video editing. So, the answer is yes. You can use your portable monitor to edit your photos and videos. With monitors that have FHD and UHD displays, in addition to HDR and true-to-life imaging, you will be able to edit your content exactly the way you envisioned it to be.
Q: Do portable monitors take up a lot of power?
A: Typically, a monitor uses about 10W of power from a power source. Some monitors need to be plugged into a source for them to work. On the other hand, some have built-in rechargeable batteries allowing you to use the monitor wherever you need to, without hooking it to a source.
USB Type C connections allow for data transmission and video output all while charging your device. Older generation connection ports did not allow for this feature.
Q: Is the brand important when choosing a monitor?
A: We’d advise that you focus more on the features of the device and what you are getting out of it as opposed to focusing merely on the name.
Conclusion
Knowing that there is a device that enables you to have an expanded screen, there is no reason for you not to enjoy entertainment or even work on that work presentation while on the commute home. With our review, we trust that you can now choose the best portable monitors suitable for your needs.