The Best Portable Monitors for a Second Screen Anywhere
Adding a portable monitor is the single biggest upgrade to your on-the-go productivity, effectively doubling your digital workspace.
A great portable monitor connects and powers on with a single USB-C cable, features a stable, built-in stand, and delivers a crisp, bright image. Inferior models cause frustration with flimsy folio stands, extra power cables, and dim, washed-out screens that hinder rather than help your workflow.
- Single-Cable Simplicity The best models use a single USB-C cable for both video and power. Look for power passthrough to charge your laptop and run the monitor simultaneously from one wall outlet.
- Stands Are Not Equal A sturdy, built-in kickstand is far superior to a wobbly, magnetic folio cover. It provides better stability, more viewing angles, and a faster setup.
- More Screen, More Work While 15.6 inches is the standard, larger 16-inch or 18-inch screens offer a desktop-like experience for multitasking, but at the cost of increased weight and bulk.
- Aspect Ratio Matters A 16:10 aspect ratio, found on premium models like the LG gram +view, offers more vertical space than the standard 16:9, letting you see more of a document or timeline.
Best Overall: ViewSonic VG1655
Its 60W USB-C power passthrough simplifies your workspace by charging your laptop and providing a second screen with just one cable. The built-in stan
- Two-way 60W power delivery simplifies your entire setup
- Sturdy built-in stand is highly adjustable and stable
- Easily rotates for portrait mode document viewing
- Good color and brightness for productivity tasks
- Slightly heavier and thicker than ultra-slim models
- Onboard speakers are weak and tinny
- Bezels are not the thinnest available
Runner Up: ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACV
The hybrid USB-C/USB-A signal solution ensures compatibility with almost any laptop. Its TÜV-certified Eye Care tech reduces flicker and blue light fo
- Anti-glare screen is excellent for working in bright rooms
- Flicker-free and low blue light modes reduce eye strain
- Hybrid signal input works with older laptops via USB-A
- Sleek and professional design
- Does not offer power passthrough charging
- Kickstand has fewer angle options than the ViewSonic
- Requires a driver installation for USB-A connection
Best Premium: 16MR70.ASDU1 16” gram +view IPS Portable Monitor
Get more vertical screen space for documents and timelines with the 16:10 aspect ratio. The DCI-P3 99% color gamut delivers exceptionally accurate col
- 16:10 aspect ratio shows more vertical content
- Exceptional color accuracy for photo and video editing
- Higher resolution screen is noticeably sharper than 1080p
- Very slim and light considering its 16-inch size
- Significantly more expensive than other options
- Relies on a separate, less stable folio cover for a stand
- Lacks an HDMI port for broader compatibility
Best for Multitasking: UPERFECT Portable Monitor 18.5 inch
The expansive 18.5-inch screen provides ample space for multiple windows, while the 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptionally smooth scrolling, reducin
- Massive screen feels like a portable desktop monitor
- 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling incredibly smooth
- Includes a built-in kickstand and VESA mounting holes
- Great value for such a large portable display
- Much larger and heavier, reducing portability
- 1080p resolution can look slightly pixelated on an 18.5-inch screen
- Requires its own power adapter for full brightness and 120Hz
Best Value: ARZOPA Portable Monitor 15.6'' FHD 1080P
This ultra-slim monitor packs essential features like a Full HD IPS screen and a built-in kickstand into a durable, lightweight metal body, offering g
- Fantastic price for the included features
- Built-in kickstand is a huge convenience at this price point
- Very thin and lightweight body is easy to pack
- Versatile connectivity with two USB-C and one mini-HDMI port
- Screen brightness is noticeably lower than premium models
- Color accuracy is average and not suited for creative work
- Build quality feels less robust than ViewSonic or ASUS
Best Budget: KYY Portable Monitor Latest 15.6''
Dedicated buttons for brightness and volume offer quick adjustments without navigating menus. The included smart cover doubles as a protective bag and
- The most affordable price on the list
- Comes with a protective cover that doubles as a stand
- Physical buttons for brightness and volume are convenient
- Includes USB-C, mini-HDMI, and power adapter in the box
- Folio cover stand is wobbly and offers limited angles
- Lower peak brightness and less vibrant colors
- Build quality feels plasticky and less durable
Side-by-side comparison
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Best Overall
ViewSonic VG1655 15.6 Inch 1080p Portable Monitor
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Runner Up
ASUS ZenScreen 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor – 1080P,
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Best Premium
16MR70.ASDU1 16” gram +view IPS Portable Monitor
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Best for Multitasking
UPERFECT Portable Monitor 18.5 inch 120HZ 125% sRG
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Best Value
ARZOPA Portable Monitor 15.6'' FHD 1080P – Ultra-S
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Best Budget
KYY Portable Monitor Latest 15.6'' FHD 1080P USB-C
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| Screen Size | 15.6" | 15.6" | 16.0" | 18.5" | 15.6" | 15.6" |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 | 2560×1600 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 |
| Stand Type | Built-in | Built-in | Folio Cover | Built-in | Built-in | Folio Cover |
| USB-C Power Passthrough | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Price | $199.99 | $162.87 | $249.99 | $169.99 | $79.99 | $66.66 |
| BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW |
What to look for in Portable Monitors for Laptop Productivity
Do I need a special cable for a portable monitor?
Most modern portable monitors work best with a single USB-C cable, provided your laptop’s USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode. If not, you’ll need to use an HDMI cable for video and a separate USB cable for power, which is less convenient. Always check your laptop’s port specifications.
Can I use a portable monitor with my phone or tablet?
Yes, if your phone or tablet supports video output over its USB-C port. This is a common feature on high-end Android devices (like Samsung phones with DeX mode) and iPads with USB-C, allowing you to create a desktop-like experience on a larger screen.
Does a portable monitor drain my laptop's battery?
Yes, running a second display will drain your laptop’s battery faster. This is why models with USB-C power passthrough, like the ViewSonic VG1655, are so valuable. They let you plug your laptop’s charger into the monitor, which then powers itself and passes the remaining power to your laptop through one cable.
Is a 4K portable monitor worth it for productivity?
For most productivity tasks, a 4K portable monitor is not worth the significant extra cost. The difference in sharpness is less noticeable on a small 15-inch screen, and it will drain your laptop’s battery much faster. A 1080p or 1440p/1600p resolution is the sweet spot for performance and price.
The bottom line
- ViewSonic VG1655: The best all-around choice for its robust stand and single-cable power passthrough.
- ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACV: A great pick for those who prioritize eye comfort and work in varied lighting conditions.
- LG gram +view 16MR70: The ultimate premium option for creative professionals needing superior color and resolution.
- UPERFECT 18.5 inch: Ideal for multitaskers who need maximum screen space and can trade some portability.
- ARZOPA Portable Monitor A1: The best value, offering a built-in stand and solid performance at a budget-friendly price.
- KYY Portable Monitor 15.6'': The most affordable option to add a second screen if budget is your primary concern.
For most people, the ViewSonic VG1655 offers the best combination of features, build quality, and convenience with its 60W power passthrough. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a great experience, the ARZOPA A1 provides incredible value with its built-in stand and slim design.