Best Portable Monitors for Laptop | Top 5 Picks for Productivity & Entertainment

A portable monitor can transform your laptop experience, whether you’re a remote worker, gamer, content creator, or business professional. These slim and lightweight displays extend your screen space, making multitasking easier while maintaining high portability.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

In this article, we explores the best portable monitors for laptops in 2025, covering features, pros, cons, and buying tips.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Portable Monitor

Before diving into our top picks, here are some crucial factors to keep in mind when choosing a portable monitor:

• Screen Size & Resolution – Common sizes range from 13.3” to 17.3”, with 1080p (Full HD) being the standard, while 4K options offer higher clarity.
• Connectivity Options – Look for USB-C, HDMI, or DisplayPort compatibility to ensure seamless connections with your laptop.
• Refresh Rate & Response Time – For gaming, aim for a high refresh rate (120Hz+) and low response time for smooth performance.
• Battery Life & Power Source – Some monitors are powered via USB-C, while others come with built-in batteries for extra convenience.
• Portability & Weight – If you travel often, choose a lightweight monitor under 2 lbs for easy carrying.

Best Portable Monitors for Laptop | Top 5 in 2025

Here are our top recommendations based on performance, features, and value:

1. ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC – Best Overall

✔ Screen Size: 15.6” | Resolution: 1080p | Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI
✔ Why We Love It: Thin, lightweight, and highly compatible with most laptops.
✅ Pros:

• Sleek, ultra-slim design
• Built-in kickstand
• Excellent display quality
  ❌ Cons:
• Limited brightness

2. Lepow Z1-Gamut – Best Budget Option

✔ Screen Size: 15.6” | Resolution: 1080p | Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI
✔ Why We Love It: Affordable with solid color performance.
✅ Pros:

• Budget-friendly price
• Decent color accuracy
  ❌ Cons:
• Lower refresh rate (60Hz)

3. ASUS ROG Strix XG17AHPE – Best for Gaming

✔ Screen Size: 17.3” | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh Rate: 240Hz
✔ Why We Love It: High refresh rate for competitive gaming.
✅ Pros:

• Ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate
• Built-in battery
  ❌ Cons:
• Expensive

4. ViewSonic VG1655 – Best for Business Use

✔ Screen Size: 15.6” | Resolution: 1080p | Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI
✔ Why We Love It: Professional-grade design with a sturdy build.
✅ Pros:

• Great color accuracy
• Includes a protective case
  ❌ Cons:
• Slightly heavier than competitors

5. Lenovo ThinkVision M14 – Best for Travelers

✔ Screen Size: 14” | Resolution: 1080p | Weight: 1.26 lbs
✔ Why We Love It: Ultra-lightweight and compact.
✅ Pros:

• Extremely portable
• Dual USB-C ports
  ❌ Cons:
• No HDMI support

Comparison Table of Best Portable Monitors

How to Set Up a Portable Monitor with Your Laptop

1. Connect using USB-C or HDMI.
2. Adjust display settings on your laptop (Windows: Display Settings, Mac: System Preferences > Displays).
3. Use a stand or case to position the monitor properly.

Conclusion

A portable monitor is an excellent investment for boosting productivity, gaming, and entertainment. Whether you need a budget-friendly, high-performance gaming, or ultra-lightweight travel monitor, our top picks offer the best choices for 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are portable monitors worth it?
Yes! They improve productivity, gaming, and multitasking while being travel-friendly.

2. What is the best portable monitor for gaming?
The ASUS ROG Strix XG17AHPE with a 240Hz refresh rate is the best for gamers.

3. Can I use a portable monitor with a MacBook?
Yes, most USB-C portable monitors are compatible with MacBooks.

4. Do portable monitors need power?
Some are powered via USB-C, while others require an external power source.