Best Portable Monitors to Buy in 2022 (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

Today, we’re going to talk about a generally used product to enhance one’s workspace – portable monitors. It’s not easy to select the best portable monitors when you’re making an investment that can impact your work. Plus, there is a myriad of choices available on the market, which can easily make you feel overwhelmed.

We’ve created a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best portable monitors for your work. We’ve also included a list of the best portable monitors on the market to help you make the right choice.

Best Portable Monitors to Buy in 2022

1. Asus ZenScreen Portable Monitor

We could not begin with this list without this beautiful portable monitor by Asus. This Asus ZenScreen will meet your expectations with style. If you’re looking for something that can help you make the best productive use of your workspace, then this ZenScreen model by Asus is the way to go.

Connectivity – USB-A & USB-C

The ZenScreen MB16AC is said to be the world’s first portable monitor to feature a hybrid signal system. This means that it’s designed to work with both USB-A type and USB-C type charging sources. Furthermore, this portable monitor needs to be plugged into your host device using just one USB cable for both power and video transmissions. It has USB-C and micro-HDMI ports.

The one-of-a-kind hybrid-signal solution incorporated by the Asus ZenScreen gives it points for compatibility. If you ever forget your C-type charging cable at home and don’t want to take a detour, you wouldn’t need to because this portable monitor is compatible with A-type charging cables as well. The USB-C charging cable that comes with the product is reversible, making it easy for you to maintain a hassle-free connection whenever you need to.

Display and Color Resolution

Much like connection, the Asus ZenScreen triumphs over most portable monitors in the display features as well. This portable monitor has a Full HD panel with 1920 * 1080 resolution, which makes way for stunning color reproduction. The 15.6-inch display only amplifies its performance without a doubt.

The Asus ZenScreen supports wide viewing angles to support your work with as much flexibility as possible. This portable monitor is designed with IPS technology to provide you with unmatchable color and contrast even while you extend your screen. Needless to say, with this ZenScreen model by Asus, your viewing experience could not get any better.

One of the most notable features of this portable monitor is that it uses the DisplayWidget software. This means that the ZenScreen can sense when its position is being changed and is programmed further to switch between landscape and portrait modes without any inconvenience. Whether you have a presentation to prepare for work or need to see all your documents in one place, you can count on this portable monitor to do it.

Additional Features

The ZenScreen MB16AC has a sleek design with its super-slim 8mm profile. It weighs only 1.7 pounds, so it bags some points for easy portability. It’s an ideal companion monitor, making it perfect for dual-monitor presentations. This is easily one of the best portable monitors on the market because of how easy it is to carry.

Plus, the Asus ZenScreen requires just one single USB connector to be adequately compatible with a laptop. However, please keep in mind that this portable monitor is not compatible with Macbook and Macbook Pro. It works fine with other Mac devices with OS X 10.8.3 (Mountain Lion) and later as long as you install the right DisplayLink Driver.

Another great feature of the Asus ZenScreen is that it supports Flicker-Free technology. This helps improve your viewing experience by reducing eyestrain to make it more comfortable. This is especially helpful for people who have to sit in front of their screens for long hours. It’s integrated with the blue light filter to reduce instances of eye fatigue.

Pros:

• USB-C Cable and Asus smart cover included with the product.
• Easily portable because it’s extremely lightweight.
• Automatically senses its orientation and switches from one viewing mode to another.
• Comes with a smartpen hole.
• Uses eye care technology.

Cons:

• Not compatible with Macbook and Macbook Pro.
• Known for lousy customer support.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – LCD.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 15.6 inches.
4. Dimensions – 8.9*0.3*14.2 inches.
5. Weight – 1.7 pounds.
6. Refresh Rate – 60 hertz.

2. Lenovo ThinkVision M14

The next item on our list is a portable monitor manufactured by one of the most famous electronics brands – Lenovo. Lenovo’s ThinkVision M14 maintains its dignity as an easily portable device while delivering incredible performance. From display quality to weight, this portable monitor excels in a wide variety of areas.

Connectivity – USB-A & USB-C

The ThinkVision M14 by Lenovo comes with two USB-C ports, one on each side of the monitor. Like most portable monitors, you can charge it with your laptop. This portable monitor supports a 65W power-pass through. This means that you can connect two devices to the monitor at the same time. For example, you can connect your charger to one port and your laptop to another. This will allow you to power both simultaneously.

However, remember that this is only possible if your laptop has a C-type port. Some older laptops do not have a USB-A port, so this may not be a viable option for people who are using the older models. Make sure that you check whether your charging and connectivity sources are compatible with this portable monitor.

Please note that this portable monitor does not offer many options for connectivity. It’s not compatible with USB-A DisplayLink or HDMI. It only supports USB-C type connector cables.

Display and Color Resolution

What the Lenovo ThinkVision lacks in connectivity options, it more than makes up for in display. While the 14-inches screen size may make you believe otherwise, this portable monitor has anything but a lousy display. Most portable monitors on the market can’t support color reproduction well enough for accuracy, but the ThinkVision has it all.

Furthermore, this portable monitor has wide viewing angles. The Lenovo ThinkVision comes with an anti-glare coating, which allows you to see the contents of the screen clearly even while it’s exposed to sunlight or harsh fluorescent lights.

The display width of this portable monitor is 4.4mm, which can be rotated anywhere from -5 degrees to 90 degrees. The 14-inch FHD mobile display of this monitor supports a color resolution of 1920*1080 pixels. The display of this portable monitor won’t disappoint your work goals, and its dynamic design allows you to be flexible without constraints.

Additional Features

The Lenovo ThinkVision is power-packed with several different features apart from its display and connectivity. This portable monitor has a unique design, which ranks it high on the scale for viewing flexibility. ThinkVision’s screen comes with a hinge mechanism that is connected to a fold-up base. This notable feature allows for adjustable viewing angles.

Furthermore, the ThinkVision comes with its own foot base, allowing you to adjust the height of the monitor to suit your needs. As we mentioned earlier, the display can be adjusted anywhere from -5 degrees to 90 degrees to support wide viewing angles.

Lenovo’s ThinkVision M14 is a perfect work companion if you have a USB-C laptop, despite lacking connections. While its screen size is smaller than most portable monitors on the market, it stands out because of its exceptional design. If you’re looking for a portable monitor with a minimal, smart design to go along with your work, then the Lenovo ThinkVision is the one for you.

Pros:

• Easily portable and lightweight.
• Great color reproduction.
• The base of the monitor acts as a durable stand.
• Wide range of viewing angles.
• Has two USB-C ports and a power-pass through of 65W.

Cons:

• Only compatible with USB-C ports.
• No support for older devices with USB-A or HDMI.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – LED.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 14 inches.
4. Dimensions – 3.8*12.73*8.23 inches.
5. Weight – 1.30 pounds.
6. Refresh Rate – 60 hertz.

3. ViewSonic Portable Monitor

In terms of overall representation, the ViewSonic VG1655 is in close competition with the Asus ZenScreen. It has a modern design that easily supports an on-the-go lifestyle. Wherever you go, you can take your work with you. This portable monitor ranks high on our list because of its versatile features.

Connectivity – USB-C & USB-A

The ViewSonic comes with two C-type ports. This allows you to transfer data like audio and video files through a single cable. The best part about this feature is that it supports a two-way power system. This means that you can use a connected laptop to power your monitor, or you can charge a laptop with the help of the monitor through the use of different charging sources like a power bank or an AC adapter.

Along with the dual USB-C ports, this portable monitor also features a mini HDMI. Plus, there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack that acts as a plug-and-play system for multimedia. Furthermore, the built-in USB-C connectivity type allows you to have screen space for multiple devices like iOS, Android, Chrome, etc. The compatible operating systems for the VG1655 are macOS, Windows, Linux, Android, and Raspberry Pi.

Display and Color Resolution

When it comes to portable monitors, ViewSonic stole the show with their 15.6-inch screen size. While the Asus ZenScreen also offers the specification in screen size, it does not quite shine like the VG1655. This portable monitor has a Full HD display of 1920*1080 pixels. This makes it a great portable monitor for multiple activities like gaming, watching movies, or working on-the-go.

With the FHD resolution of the ViewSonic, you can rest assured that the display capacity of your monitor won’t be compromised. That definitely puts it in the running for the best portable monitor on the market. Whether you want to prepare a presentation or beat the high score of a complicated game, the VG1655 will not stand to disappoint.

Additional Features

The wonders of this exceptional portable monitor do not stop at display and connections. Its display monitor allows the user to switch to portrait orientation easily. This function enables you to access all of your data in one place seamlessly, making the VG1655 an excellent option for people who program code professionally.

Furthermore, this portable monitor comes with a built-in stand for the display. Considering how easily this allows you to shift landscape and portrait modes, it is incredibly convenient to use. Also, the frameless IPS of this portable monitor allows for a satisfactory viewing experience. This portable monitor uses Flicker-free technology to make it easy on the eyes if you choose to use your side display for long hours.

To top it all, the VG1655 by ViewSonic comes with dual integrated speakers for enhanced sound quality. This portable monitor comes with a detachable anti-slip magnetic cover to protect the screen when it’s closed. Also, it keeps the monitor from sliding away when you open it.

The VG1655 is the standard model by ViewSonic. If you want to go with something having a bit more jazz, you can choose its touch-screen model. Depending on what you are buying a portable monitor for, both of these models are worth the price.

Pros:

• Comes in a touch-screen model.
• Full HD display of 1920*1080 pixels.
• Elegant color reproduction.
• Integrated with eye care and dual speakers.
• Can be used for gaming.
• Lightweight.
• Dual USB-C ports with the two-way power system.
• Multiple viewing angles.

Cons:

• Could have been thinner.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – LCD.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 15.6 inches.
4. Dimensions – 0.6*14*8.8 inches.
5. Weight – 1.80 pounds.
6. Refresh Rate – 60 hertz.
7. Aspect Ratio – 16:9.

4. Asus ROG Strix Portable Monitor

Another ASUS product is just what this list needed. The unique selling point of the Asus ROG Strix is that it’s primarily a portable gaming monitor. However, that’s not its only noteworthy feature. This portable monitor is an excellent option for you if you’re looking for something with versatile attributes. With its broad spectrum of features, this portable monitor is definitely a steal.

Connectivity – USB-A & USB-C

The Asus ROG Strix has a single USB-C port, a micro HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This allows your portable monitor to be connected to or draw power from various multimedia devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.

One of the most admirable features of this portable monitor is its powerful 7800mAH battery life. You can use it for a wide variety of purposes for 3.5 hours without any interruptions. If you want to use it just for gaming, simply connect it to your gaming console and start playing. Furthermore, the Asus ROG Strix supports quick charge. This means you can charge it to last for more than 120 minutes, with the charging time as less as an hour.

The best part about investing in this gaming monitor is that you don’t have to spend extra money to buy different charging cables. The product comes with a type-C cable, a micro HDMI cable, a power adapter, and a Type-C to A adapter.

Display and Color Resolution

As far as portable monitors go, the Asus ROG Strix is a certified deal-breaker in terms of display. This portable monitor has a display size of 17.3 inches. The display has a slim profile of 0.4 inches. The display is complemented with a 100% color gamut along with a contrast ratio of 1000:1. This portable monitor produces high-definition colors with 1920*1080p resolution.

The Asus ROG Strix is known to be the world’s fastest portable gaming monitor because its IPS panel can hit up to a 240hz refresh rate. This means that aside from being one of the best portable monitors, it’s also one of the fastest portable monitors available on the market.

The 240hz refresh rate is a definite advantage over the average 60hz refresh rate of most portable monitors. While this may seem like an extravagance if you’re not a gamer, the HD color resolution will make this a worthwhile purchase. Not only does this portable monitor promise outstanding gaming visuals, but it also has a lightning-fast response time of 3ms.

Additional Features

Apart from an impeccable display resolution and versatile connectivity, this portable monitor by Asus features Adaptive-sync technology. This allows you to experience a tear-free gaming experience. As we mentioned before, the Asus ROG Strix uses fast refresh rates, which pairs well with its Low Framerate Compensation Technology. If you’re buying a portable monitor just for gaming, this is the one to go with because it offers a lag-free performance.

Another great feature of this portable monitor is that it comes with its own screen protector. It has an integrated ROG Smart cover explicitly designed to shield the display monitor from everyday dust. The ROG Smart cover folds in to cover the monitor completely when not in use. Also, you can use the smart cover as a stand to support the monitor.

Pros:

• Big screen with Full HD resolution.
• 240hz refresh rate.
• USB-C Portable monitor with multiple connectivity options.
• Can be used as a portable gaming console.
• IPS panel with a lag-free gaming experience.
• Comes with a USB cable for Micro HDMI.

Cons:

• This portable monitor can be difficult to carry because of its large screen.
• It can prove to be too expensive a purchase if it’s not used for gaming.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – LED/IPS.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 17.3 inches.
4. Dimensions – 15.71*9.86*0.39 inches.
5. Weight – 2.3 pounds.
6. Refresh Rate – 240 hertz.

5. AOC USB-C Portable Monitor

The 16T2 USB-C portable monitor by AOC is perfect if you’re looking for a host of features in a single product. It has all the hallmarks of a great portable monitor, whether it’s display or connectivity. This is one of the best portable monitors on the market because of its reach in productivity. While portable monitors are usually used to extend workspaces, this one is a separate workspace by itself.

Connectivity – USB-A & USB-C

The AOC 16T2 portable monitor has two USB-C ports. One USB-C connection is enough to provide transfer of data, audio, and video files. Please note that DisplayPort Alternative Mode is required on the host device to enable easy transfer through just one reversible USB cable. There’s one USB-C port on each side of the monitor, making it convenient for the user to manage cables when the device is in use.

Unlike most portable monitors, the 16T2 by AOC has a built-in battery of 8000mAH. This allows you to use the display monitor as a power bank for all your devices that support a USB-C connection. Furthermore, this portable monitor features Micro HDMI connectivity. This tips the scale in its favor because some older laptop models do not support USB-C.

The Micro-HDMI connectivity increases the possible uses of a portable monitor relatively. For example, some computers, gaming consoles, digital cameras, and Blu-Ray players only have an HDMI output. If you have such products, then the 16T2 can be an excellent investment for your home or workspace.

Display and Color Resolution

The display and color resolution that this portable monitor offers is a steal for its price point. The AOC 16T2 portable monitor has a multi-touch screen that operates through its USB-C connection. This monitor features advanced touch screen technology. However, please note that its compatibility features may vary. For example, it only supports Windows 7 or newer operating systems.

The built-in battery of this portable monitor allows for a display time of 4 hours. The IPS panel of the display features a response time of 4ms, faster than any of the portable monitors mentioned in this list. Furthermore, this portable monitor employs a display size of 15.6 inches. It supports a Full HD resolution of 1920*1080 pixels.

The 16T2 by AOC has an ultra-slim profile of 0.4 inches, making it incredibly compact and easy to carry.

Additional Features

Perhaps what makes the AOC 16T2 stand out among the sea of portable monitors is that it’s compatible with VESA mounting. This means that you can mount it onto the wall, making it easy for you to use. This makes it one of the best portable monitors on the market. The packaging of the product includes an adapter bracket that is VESA compatible. This expands the possibilities of its uses.

Not only is this USB-C portable monitor perfect for workspaces, but you can also use it as an entertainment system, a kiosk touch screen, a booking monitor, etc.

The AOC 16T2 comes with a Flexi Stand Smart cover that’s foldable. This portable monitor has an Auto-Pivot mechanism, which means that the display’s orientation automatically adjusts according to the position of the monitor. Furthermore, the smart cover can support the monitor in both the portrait and the landscape mode. This smart cover also doubles up as a stand for your monitor. It’s easily foldable to accommodate different reading or viewing points.

Owing to its versatile features, this is one of the best portable monitors available. It has built-in stereo speakers for exceptional sound quality, which undoubtedly adds to the user experience.

Pros:

• Versatile connectivity.
• VESA mounting compatible.
• Comes with a foldable Flexi-Smart stand cover.
• Lightweight and compact.
• Supports Auto-Pivot.
• Built-in battery with display time of four hours.

Cons:

• The full brightness of this portable monitor can seem harsh to the eyes.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – LED.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 15.6 inches.
4. Contrast Ratio – 700:1.
5. Brightness – 250 nits.
6. Touch Screen Capacity – 10 point-touch.
7. Built-in 8000mAH battery.

6. Lepow Upgraded Portable Monitor

The Lepow Upgraded portable monitor is easily the best budget portable monitor. The efficiency of its last model was upgraded to enhance the quality and overall experience of the user. The special feature of this portable monitor is its wide viewing angle. Not only does it make a great work companion, but it also allows you to watch videos with a clear HD resolution.

Connectivity – USB-A & USB-C

The upgraded portable monitor by Lepow has a USB-C connection along with a mini HDMI. This allows you to connect it to several devices such as XBOX ONE, Play Station, Switch, laptops, smartphones, etc. With Lepow’s USB-C port, you can easily extend your workspace. This is possible through three distinct modes – Duplicate, Extend, and Second Screen.

The Duplicate mode allows you to share the screen of your laptop with the display monitor. The Extend mode simply expands your workspace, i.e., increases the real estate of your workspace. When you connect with the device, drag the screen of your laptop or computer to the far right or far left, and you can continue your work on the portable monitor. This is an excellent feature if you often engage in tasks like programming, photo editing, designing, etc.

Furthermore, with the Second Screen mode, you can use the portable monitor even when the laptop or PC is turned off. Not only does this help you save your laptop’s battery, make use of your desk space productively, but it also makes working on-the-go more convenient than ever.

Display and Color Resolution

As we’ve already seen, this portable monitor has many features to offer in terms of display. The different mode settings allow you to focus your undivided attention on work or make your presentations without interfering. This upgraded Lepow portable monitor has a 15.6-inch of screen size. The USB-C powered display monitor features a Full HD resolution of 1920*1080 pixels. The color resolution on this portable monitor is perfect for various tasks like gaming, watching movies, etc.

Apart from serving a beautiful visual, this portable monitor has a 178 degrees wide viewing angle with a contrast ratio of 1000:1. The display screen of this monitor leaves no space for distortion. Furthermore, this portable monitor is integrated with special eye care technology that ensures there are no eye strains during prolonged viewing or working hours. The screen has a blue light filter to protect your eyes from harmful light rays.

Additional Features

One of the many reasons to buy this portable monitor is its varied uses. This display monitor has built-in auto-rotate software that automatically adjusts the screen’s orientation. This makes it useful if you have to frequently switch from the landscape mode to the portrait mode and vice versa. Furthermore, the portrait mode of this display monitor increases the vertical vision, allowing you to carry out your tasks with nothing but efficiency.

The Lepow USB-C monitor requires a single USB-C connection to function at its full capacity. Users also have the option to put the mini HDMI cable to use, if needed. Both the USB and HDMI cables are included with the purchase of this product. This portable monitor has a 3.5mm headphone jack as well. What’s more, is that this monitor has dual speakers.

This portable monitor doubles up as a portable gaming monitor. You can easily connect it with gaming consoles such as XBOX, PS4, Nintendo, Switch, and many more. The immersive 360-degree sound quality is bound to give you an incredible gaming experience.

Pros:

• Distinct screen modes – Duplicate, Extend, Second Screen.
• Dual stereo speakers.
• Comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Type C power supply and Mini HDMI for a video signal.
• Uses eye care technology.
• Allows for a full 178 degrees viewing angle.

Cons:

• No built-in battery.

Product Specifications:

1. Display Type – IPS.
2. Display Resolution – 1920*1080 pixels.
3. Screen Size – 15.6 inches.
4. Dimensions – 14.5*8.8*0.34 inches.
5. Weight – 1.71 pounds.
6. Aspect Ratio – 16:9.

Things to Look for in a Portable Monitor

Portability

One of the foremost reasons for buying a portable monitor is that you can use it on-the-go. This won’t be possible if your display monitor has an unusually large screen size or weighs more than what most bags can carry. Therefore, it’s really important to find a portable monitor that is lightweight and compact. If your portable monitor is way too heavy or large, then it defeats the purpose of having one.

Make sure that your display monitor is easy to carry and that it suits your commuting needs. To do that, you have to ask yourself a few questions and evaluate the kind of portable monitor you need. For example, do you commute via a cab or the metro? Is your portable monitor compact enough to be used on both those modes of transportation? If it’s specifically for work, can your bag carry that much weight? These are some essential questions you need to ask before buying the right portable monitor for yourself.

Connectivity

Another essential feature you need to look for in a portable monitor is the connections it supports. Most portable monitors available on the market use a type-C power supply and cable. This means that if you have an old laptop with an HDMI or USB-A connection, it won’t be compatible with your workstation.

However, several options on the market support different modes of connectivity like HDMI, USB-C, AC adapter, etc. Therefore, it’s essential for you to take a comprehensive look at the products you’re going to use and whether they are compatible with your choice of portable monitor or not.

If you buy a portable monitor that doesn’t support the connections your products have, then that would be a waste of money. So unless you’re buying all new products and recreating your workspace entirely, it’s essential to make sure that you know what connection systems you have available.

Display and Color Resolution

The display of your portable monitor will decide how your work experience is. For example, if the display of your monitor is too harsh on your eyes, it would be impractical and harmful for you to use it. This means that you must look for a portable monitor that protects your eyes from any harmful rays emitted from the display.

Some manufacturers use eye care technology and blur filter to reduce the possibility of eye strain. These make it easier for you to work for long hours without straining your eyes. This is extremely important because eye strain can further lead to health problems like headaches, burning in the eyes, watering eyes, etc.

While talking about the display of your portable monitor, color resolution is also something you must account for. Try to find a portable monitor with a Full HD resolution of 1920*1080 pixels. Another important thing about the display of your portable monitor is whether it has wide viewing angles or not. Wide viewing angles can enhance the user experience. Plus, they allow you to get the most out of your product.

FAQs

Are portable monitors worth it?

As far as workspaces go, portable monitors can really enhance your experience and boost your productivity. They are also useful for other purposes such as typing code, reading, watching movies, etc.

How do I choose a portable monitor?

While choosing a portable monitor, it’s essential to keep some crucial factors in mind. These factors include connectivity, portability, display, color resolution, etc. Make sure that you read the product specifications before you buy a portable monitor, so you don’t end up with the wrong thing.

Is a docking station necessary?

A docking station for your work devices like laptops, PCs, or portable monitors can make things much more convenient for you. However, you don’t necessarily need one to make full use of your portable monitor.

Conclusion

When shopping for multimedia devices, it can be easy to feel smothered by the thousands of specifications they offer. While these can seem overwhelming, it’s important to remember that these specifications can help you make the right choice. This goes for a variety of devices like smartphones, smart home systems, laptops, and in this case, specifically, portable monitors.

Investing in a good portable monitor can significantly improve your work experience. To help you make the right decision, we curated a list of some of the market’s best portable monitors. We hope that our buying guide can help you find the best portable monitor for your workspace or home.