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Home›Electronics›10 Best Portable Monitors In 2021: Buying Guide and Reviews

10 Best Portable Monitors In 2021: Buying Guide and Reviews

By Lizzie Everley
November 25, 2019
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In article, we discuss 10 of the best portable monitors suitable for travel.

Laptops are great for portability, but their screens can be a nightmare especially when you want to multitask. When the screen is too small, you can hardly see numbers and letters properly because they have been reduced to their smallest characters. It gets worse when you want to split a screen. Squinting to see your work feels like a task, but you feel like you have no choice because the only other option is getting a desktop. Or is it?

You don’t have to suffer splitting headaches for squinting too hard or resorting to a desktop when you can invest in the best portable monitor on the market. So, if you have been frustrated by your laptop’s screen, then this article will answer some of your pressing questions and review 10 of the best portable monitors for travel.

Table of Contents

  • Portable Monitors – Review & Buyer’s Guide
    • 1. Portable Monitor – Lepow 15.6 Inch Computer Display
    • 2. ASUS MB169B+ Full HD USB Portable Monitor
    • 3. ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Full HD USB C Portable Monitor
    • 4. Elecrow 13.3 Inch Portable HDMI Monitor
    • 5. szoon 13.3 Inch 2K USB C Portable Gaming Monitor
    • 6. GeChic 1503E FHD 15.6″ Portable Monitor
    • 7. Evivic 4k, 15.6″ Portable Gaming Monitor
    • 8. AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim Portable Monitor 
    • 9. Newsoul Upgraded 15.6 Inch USB C 1o80p Portable Monitor
    • 10. Cocar 15.6″ Portable Monitor Ultra-Thin IPS LED Gaming Screen
    • Buying Guide – Portable Monitors
    • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Portable Monitors – Review & Buyer’s Guide

PreviewProductPrice
Portable Monitor - Lepow 15.6 Inch Computer Display 1920×1080 Full HD IPS Screen USB C Gaming... Portable Monitor - Lepow 15.6 Inch Computer Display 1920×1080 Full HD IPS Screen USB C Gaming... Buy on Amazon
ASUS MB169B+ 15.6' Full HD 1920x1080 IPS USB Portable Monitor ASUS MB169B+ 15.6" Full HD 1920x1080 IPS USB Portable Monitor $188.55 Buy on Amazon
ZSCMALLS Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch Full HD Computer Display USB C Dual Monitor with Speaker, Gaming... ZSCMALLS Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch Full HD Computer Display USB C Dual Monitor with Speaker,... $149.99 Buy on Amazon
Elecrow 13.3 Inch Raspberry Pi Display Portable Monitor 1920X1080 IPS with Dual Mini HDMI External... Elecrow 13.3 Inch Raspberry Pi Display Portable Monitor 1920X1080 IPS with Dual Mini HDMI... $159.99 Buy on Amazon
Portable Monitor szoon 13.3 Inch 2K 2560×1440 Computer Display USB C Gaming Monitor IPS Screen VESA... Portable Monitor szoon 13.3 Inch 2K 2560×1440 Computer Display USB C Gaming Monitor IPS Screen... Buy on Amazon
GeChic 1503E 15.6 inch FHD 1080p Portable Monitor with HDMI, VGA Input, USB Powered, Ultralight... GeChic 1503E 15.6 inch FHD 1080p Portable Monitor with HDMI, VGA Input, USB Powered, Ultralight... $199.99 Buy on Amazon
4k Portable Monitor, 15.6' Gaming Monitor USB C Monitor with Stand Case HDMI External Monitor IPS... 4k Portable Monitor, 15.6" Gaming Monitor USB C Monitor with Stand Case HDMI External Monitor IPS... $288.88 Buy on Amazon
AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim 1366x768 Res 200 cd/m2 Brightness USB 3.0-Powered Portable LED... AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim 1366x768 Res 200 cd/m2 Brightness USB 3.0-Powered Portable LED... $123.95 Buy on Amazon
Portable Monitor, Upgraded 15.6' IPS HDR 1920X1080 FHD Eye Care Screen USB C Gaming Monitor, Dual... Portable Monitor, Upgraded 15.6" IPS HDR 1920X1080 FHD Eye Care Screen USB C Gaming Monitor, Dual... $169.99 Buy on Amazon
15.6' Ultra-Slim Portable Monitor IPS Display Full HD 1080P for PC Laptop Gaming PS4 Xbox DVD Player... 15.6" Ultra-Slim Portable Monitor IPS Display Full HD 1080P for PC Laptop Gaming PS4 Xbox DVD... Buy on Amazon

1. Portable Monitor – Lepow 15.6 Inch Computer Display

Portable Monitor - Lepow 15.6 Inch Computer Display 1920×1080 Full HD IPS Screen USB C Gaming Monitor

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Lepow USB C portable monitor offers an incredible 1080p resolution through a 15.6-inch display to ensure stunning visuals and just the right color production. The Lepow USB C monitor allows multiple device connections meaning you can connect it to components including your personal computer, laptop, smart phones, Nintendo Switch and XBOX. The connection is possible through Type C and Mini HDMI ports making it easier for you to make business presentations, watch TV shows, videos, and much more.

The model also features a smart cover together with a screen protector to guarantee the longevity of the monitor. The smart cover integrates a long-lasting PU leather exterior as a soft lining to protect the monitor from getting scratches and damages. This casing also has a unique folding mechanism that makes it easier to fold it into different styles to facilitate various uses, including watching, typing text and reading. The monitor is 0.3 inches in diameter and weighs only 1.76 pounds, making it super ultra- weight and ultra-slim. You will find it very convenient to carry this monitor when on the go.

Pros
  • Ultra-Lightweight and ultra-slim
  • Multi-device connection
  • High resolution
  • Quick to install
Cons
  • The guide for connection troubleshooting is quite unclear

2. ASUS MB169B+ Full HD USB Portable Monitor

ASUS MB169B+ 15.6" Full HD 1920x1080 IPS USB Portable Monitor

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The ASUS MB15.6″ is an affordable portable monitor that is large-sized and USB powered. The USB 3.0 port connection is useful for the transmission of power and data when using ports for external devices. Its 5.6inch Full HD display (1920*1080) is great for performing tasks that need the use of two monitors. The model is also super slim and ultra-lightweight (1.76 pounds), making it a great option for use when travelling. It also has a sleek finish that makes it appear professional and stylish, requiring just a single USB cable for the video signal and the power to offer amazing Full HD definition.

It also highlights an auto-rotating ability. The two-way adjustable stand along with the protective sleeve allows you to move and adjust the monitor depending on your needs and also makes handling it much more comfortable. The monitor also has a blue light filter, which reduces blue light to prevent your eyes from straining, especially when you spend lots of time on your computer. It’s also compatible with laptops, notebooks and PCs to give you maximum flexibility.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Offers a large display
  • Highly adjustable
Cons
  • The screen may get damaged when it falls

3. ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Full HD USB C Portable Monitor

ZSCMALLS Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch Full HD USB C HDMI Computer Display Dual Monitor with Speaker for Laptop Computer Phone Gaming Monitor for PS3 PS4 Xbox Nintendo Raspberry pi

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The ZSCMALLS 16.6inch is a matte monitor that offers a fantastic resolution of 1920 x 1080 for a stunning view. It’s highly portable, with a net weight of only 1.42lbs. It also has a thickness of just 0.39, making it an ideal option for traveling. It’s also simple to use as it doesn’t require you to install programs, drivers among other setups (it integrates an ultramodern plug and plays component).  It connects with thunderbolt 3.0 split-screen mode plus support mirror to maximize productivity and your gaming experience. It’s an excellent choice for both dual monitor and the third screen as well.

This ultramodern monitor also comes with a long-lasting PU leather exterior and easily folds into three various positions to enable a strong support stand. The smart-pen- hole structure also makes standing the monitor much easier. The model also has a mini HDMI in addition to a USB port allowing you to connect to laptops, personal computers, XBOX, PS3/PS4, phones, and Nintendo Switch. An additional mouse and keyboard are included for playing your best games, videos TV shows, presentations, and photos. The gadget has 30 days a 100% money-back policy and a three-year warranty with tech support. 

Pros
  • Durable PU leather case
  • Plug and Play feature
  • Lightweight making it ultra portable
  • Three-year warranty & tech support
Cons
  • Quite expensive
  • Can have vibration problems

4. Elecrow 13.3 Inch Portable HDMI Monitor

Elecrow 13.3 Inch IPS Raspberry Pi Display 1920X1080 Resolution Dual Mini HDMI Portable Monitor

  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you prefer a smaller screen, the Elcrow 13.3 inch portable monitor will be a perfect fit for you. It weighs only 1.41lbs, making it extremely lightweight and also comes with built-in speakers. The product has an overall measurement of 12.6 x 7.9 x 0.6 inches. This model has a fantastic resolution of 1920X1080, a maximum of 1080p. The monitor utilizes IPS LED technology, an aspect ratio of 16.9, and 170 degrees viewing angle for a pleasurable gaming experience. This gadget also has several ports, including HDMI, earphone jack, and USB and a different PowerPoint.

 It connects well with any device which has HDMI output effectively from Max, Window, Linux, Xbox, PS4, and much more. The package comes with a 5V/2A power adapter x 1, Metal Rack x 1, and   HDMI cable x 1. This portable monitor indeed lets you enjoy excellent image quality and remarkably easy to use. There’s no need to install any drivers making the set up process easier.

Pros
  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Classic elegant design
  • Excellent image quality
  • Compatible with any device that has HDMI output
Cons
  • Large Bezels
  • Quite thick at 1.5 centimeters

5. szoon 13.3 Inch 2K USB C Portable Gaming Monitor

13.3 Inch 2K Portable Gaming Monitor szoon 2560×1440 Computer Display USB C Monitor IPS Screen Type-C and Mini HDMI Input for PS3 PS4 Xbox Raspberry Pi Laptop PC MAC, Include Smart Case

  Get it now on Amazon.com

This is a highly portable monitor from the house of szoon. It has a size of 31.7cm*19.8cm*1cm. It features a 2K screen with a contrast ratio of 1000:1. The estimated brightness is 350cd / m2 and a screen ratio of 16:9/4:3, a refresh rate of 60Hz, an IPS panel, 16.7M (8 bit) Pixels. In addition, it has 72% NTSC and a maximum resolution 2560×1440. It’s good to note, however, that the screen’s resolution may not reach 2K since it is highly dependent upon the output resolution of the device you are using and the cable data capacity along with the adapter capacity.

 With a weight of only 610g grams, this gadget is extremely portable compared to other monitors, and it is 10mm thin.  You conveniently travel with it to any place you like and enjoy optimal productivity. This is made possible through three modes, which are the second screen, duplicate and extend modes. This portable monitor works excellent as a gaming monitor, and it’s compatible with Nintendo, XBOX one, PS4, PS3, Switch, XBOX 360, and other game consoles. You can also use this device as a second display for desktops, phone cameras, and other accessories. It’s also compatible with raspberry PI surveillance cameras, microscopes, medical machines, POS cash registers, drones, and TV boxes. 

Pros
  • Portable and Lightweight
  • Built-in speakers
  • Plug and play feature
Cons
  • Screen resolution may not reach 2K on specific devices

6. GeChic 1503E FHD 15.6″ Portable Monitor

GeChic 1503E 15.6 inch FHD 1080p Portable Monitor with HDMI, VGA Input, USB Powered, Ultralight Weight, Built-in Speakers

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The GeChic 15.6-inch portable monitor delivers a pleasurable gaming and viewing experience through a 1920 X 1080 full HD and an FHD AAS LED backlight panel. This monitor features a 262,144-color depth in conjunction with a 700:1 contrast ratio, and the brightness of 220(cd/m2) (Typical) further enhances the visual quality. This model also highlights a 170-degree angle, so you don’t worry about getting a diffused view making it great for watching movies and working at the office in any angle. The horizontal view is also perfect for reading datasheets and eBooks. 

 It has a weight of 799 grams and a thickness of only 11m and makes it great for playing your favorite games and doing office work on the go.   It’s easy to connect any mounting device that you have. There’s also a smart cover stand so you can place it anywhere you like. This portable monitor is compatible with Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PS4, and many other game consoles.  The device also has inbuilt speakers. You can also connect this model to any gaming device you like since it comes with a VGA port, USB, Micro HDMI, and Headphone out. 

Pros
  • Wireless compatibility with several devices
  • Slim and relatively easy to carry
  • Simple plug and play connectivity
  • Full vertical & horizontal view (170 degrees)
Cons
  • Poor screen protector
  • Does not have a touch screen

7. Evivic 4k, 15.6″ Portable Gaming Monitor

Gaming Monitor USB C Monitor with Stand Case HDMI External Monitor IPS Screen HDR 3840 x 2160 Mini DP PD Built-in Speaker for Raspberry Pi 4 Xbox Camera Drone Win PC Mac PS4

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Evivc 17.6-inch 4K portable monitor is an excellent option for people looking for the additional screen on the table. It features a massive display of 3840 x 2160. The IPS screen offers exceptionally high quality images that will surely grab your attention. The monitor also has an aspect ratio of 19.9, a built-in dual speaker, a refresh rate of 60HZ, a contrast of 1000: 1, and a response rate speed of 2(Tr+Td)ms, 72% NTSC plus 16.7 million colors. It also measures14.06*8.86*0.39 inches and has a viewing angle of 178 degrees.   

This model can support a single cable for power plus data transmission. This portable monitor works well with any device that supports the transfer of data, USB 3.1, and thunderbolt such XBOX all models, Nintendo Switch, Banana Pro, Desktop, Laptop smartphones, surveillance cameras, and many others. You can use this gadget as a convenient computer screen extension for optimal work productivity.  The manufacturer offers a 100% money back policy within 30 days in case any issue arises. It also comes with a three-year warranty along with tech support. The device weighs 1.89lb, making it extremely convenient to carry when traveling. 

Pros
  • Wide compatibility with many devices
  • Built-in speakers
  • Super bright screen plus eye care mode
  • Ultra-lightweight
Cons
  • No touch screen
  • The charger can get scratches

8. AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim Portable Monitor 

AOC e1659Fwu 15.6-Inch Ultra Slim 1366x768 Res 200 cd/m2 Brightness USB 3.0-Powered Portable LED Monitor w/ Case

  Get it now on Amazon.com

 This mobile monitor features a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768, 200 cd/M2 Brightness, 8-11ms response time, a contrast ratio of 500: and an aspect ratio of 16:9. The 8-11ms response-time makes a fantastic portable monitor for playing your favorite games, typing, and doing other sorts of office work and entertainment.  It’s also fitted with 3.0 technologies USB, so you do not require any power cables. 

 The lightweight of this monitor also ensures significant portability, meaning you can conveniently travel with it, use it for photo frame application along with dual monitor setups. You can view using both the landscape and portrait mode in auto pivot mode thanks to the foldable Flexi stand. Landscape mode enables you to vie excel sheets and PowerPoint presentations effectively while portrait mode is high for instant messaging, and sidebars. It’s also worth mentioning that this model comes with inbuilt in display technology that makes it possible to connect several USP portable monitors at the same time without the need for additional hardware.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Easy setup
  • Comes with a protective case for longevity
  • Ultra-lightweight
Cons
  • The screen is quite prone to fingerprints

9. Newsoul Upgraded 15.6 Inch USB C 1o80p Portable Monitor

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Newsoul 15.6-inch model offers stunning visuals and excellent performance. It includes a 1920 x 1080 resolution for clear images and an incredible color production.  For an enjoyable viewing experience, this ultramodern monitor features a viewing angle of 178 degrees alongside eye care technology, so your eyes do not get damaged due to prolonged hours of use.  This monitor also comes with 2 dual-W speakers for an enhanced audio experience. You can also add your speaker for enhanced audio through the 3.5mm audio output. 

This monitor allows you to quickly switch the screen to both landscape and portrait modes for maximum productivity. It also comes with  Type C, USB, OTG, mini DP, HDMI, making it compatible with phones, personal computers, laptops, XBOX one, PS4 PS3, and Nintendo switch. This screen also has a long-lasting PU exterior smart cover for maximum protection of the screen. It has a small weight of only 1.99lbs, making it a convenient choice for traveling. 

Pros
  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Durable smart cover
  • Versatile digital connection
  • 178-degree full angle view for comfortable viewing
Cons
  • The screen is too fingerprint sensitive
  • Consumes a lot of power

10. Cocar 15.6″ Portable Monitor Ultra-Thin IPS LED Gaming Screen

Portable Monitor 15.6" IPS 5mm Super Thin Gaming Display 5V USB Power Full HD 1080P for PC Laptop PS4 Xbox DVD Player HDMI Metal Housing LED Backlight Built-in Speaker

  Get it now on Amazon.com

This has a Cocar 15.6-inch portable monitor that offers vivid images and real images for great viewing and gaming thanks to the 1920*1080 native resolution.  The screen ratio is 16:9 and features IPS full view. The ultra-slim design and the light weight of 760g make it a suitable monitor for using it on the go. The brightness is 400-500cd/m2   in various display modes and a contrast ratio of 100:1 for enhanced clarity of images and videos. This model has a W-LED backlight type. 

See also: Best Portable Projector Screens

The shell is made using aluminum alloy and comes together with a back case and a frame as well. You can easily use it in various positions, given the foldable mounting feature.  Another fascinating feature of this monitor is the low power consumption rate. You can power it using a 5V 2A power bank when travelling. This monitor is also compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, personal computers, DVD players, XBOX, and much more, for as long as they have HDMI ports. Two loudspeakers are inbuilt for improved audio experience when you are watching movies, playing your favorite games, or enjoying other kinds of entertainment.                                                                                                                  

Pros
  • 2 Inbuilt loudspeakers
  • Ultra-slim and ultra-lightweight
  • High resolution of 1920*1080
  • Low power consumption
Cons
  • Light bleeding can be present in the corners

Buying Guide – Portable Monitors

Here are some of the most important features of a portable monitor.

Power Source

Though most portable monitors have external DC chargers, you want to know whether they can be charged using a USB cable or not. If they are, you will have an easier time finding ways to power yours because you can easily connect it to your laptop.

You may also want to check whether it has a built-in battery that you can charge and use when away from a power source. For travel, these are ideal as they keep working even when you go off-the-grid.

Size and Screen Resolution

Portability is key when traveling, and so we recommend monitors measuring 11.6 inches and below. Anything larger would not be the easiest to carry as it would also be quite bulky, and no one is looking to add on to weight they are already carrying.

As far as resolution goes, you only have two options – 1366×768 and 1920×1080 – to make the choice easier. You naturally want a 1080p Full HD resolution that has much better quality than its competition and only costs a fraction more. It will also serve you better for longer.

Ports

We would recommend you go for a portable monitor with either an HDMI port or USB-C port because they later determine lots of things. If the one you are eyeing has a full-sized HDMI port, then you are in luck because most laptops and game consoles accept HDMI connectivity. If the monitor has a mini-HDMI port, no need to panic or lose interest because for a few dollars you can buy an adapter to convert it to full HDMI. More ideal is to choose a monitor with both an HDMI and USB-C port as this will be the future of laptops and consoles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the portable monitor?
It is an extra screen that allows you to expand the capacity of your laptop or regular scree. It is typically lightweight and compact enough to be carried easily, and though most of them have adapters, you can power one through a laptop or desktop cable.

How much power does a portable monitor draw?
A typical one draws around 10W of power from the source. Some have to be connected to a power source at all times while others have built-in battery packs that allow you to take them offsite. Naturally, they are the best to take with you when you travel or are camping.

The new USB-C monitors allow you to draw power from your laptop while at the same time outputting the video and audio from the source. While using these, you will neither need the built-in battery nor power adapter.

What is the acceptable latency of a portable monitor?
If you have a delay in your video output, then the two most likely culprits are monitor video latency and also, input lag. If the monitor is for gaming, for instance, you want it to connect to the laptop or gaming console via HDMI and not a USB cable. The input lag, though, is mostly felt by those using gaming monitors as they are more power-intensive.

Is a portable monitor great for video and photo editing?
The two best-known and readily available portable monitors on the market are IPS Panel and TN panel. They are both ideal for just about any activity but we prefer one with IPS panel for both photo and video editing. This is primarily because this technology offers great color coverage and so your images will look as great as you envision them.

Should you look at the brand when buying a portable monitor?
We would not advise you do because brands are not always the best at telling the value of a product. We recommend that you read thoroughly researched online reviews – such as ours – for more information that will guide you when making a decision. The same applies to price as we mostly know the cheapest is not always the best. When buying a portable monitor, we prefer that you look at such factors as size, resolution, durability, eye-protection, and even warranty so you are covered for a while.

Wrap-up

Think you could use an extra monitor to spread out your work for better projection? Then there is no reason you should not get one of the ones we have reviewed here. They are highly rated as you will notice, from reputable brands, and reasonably priced. They are also easily available online.

We hope this article gave you the insight you needed to buy a portable monitor and that you are now more knowledgeable about these products. We always use credible sources and are always looking out for updates on products to keep our articles evergreen, so stay tuned.

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PortableBeasts team picks, read and write reviews of thousands of products before publishing a list of the best products you can get on the market. We understand that deciding on which product is worth the hard earned money is a headache, we are dedicated into our work and we do hope that what we share with you on this site would help save your time and stress.

Our focus is on portable products and shopping guides; all of which aim to make it easy for you to make your picks.

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