Adding a second screen to your setup can truly transform your digital experience. The additional screen space not only boosts productivity but also enriches your gaming and creative endeavors. Once you've embraced the convenience and versatility of a portable monitor, going back to a single screen feels limiting. However, with the vast array of options available, choosing the best portable monitor for your laptop, smartphone, or Mac can be daunting. Whether you're seeking the top-of-the-line model like the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE or a cost-effective choice such as the Arzopa Z1FC, my years of testing and reviewing monitors will guide you to the perfect fit for your needs, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the benefits of a second screen and less time shopping.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Portable Monitors:
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1 See it at Amazon!
0 See it at Amazon See it at Arzopa!
0 See it at Amazon See it at Espresso Displays!
0 See it at Amazon!
0 See it at Amazon
Portable monitors may not match the expansive screens of traditional gaming monitors, but their portability is unmatched for those needing to work or game on the move. Even the best laptops have limited screen space, and smartphones are not ideal for multitasking or detailed work. A portable monitor can significantly enhance your setup. After thorough research and testing, I present the top portable monitors of 2025.
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1 Game on the go with this 17.3-inch portable monitor, featuring a 240Hz refresh rate at 1080p, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and low input lag.
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It's hard to believe that a portable monitor can pack all the features needed for a quality gaming setup, but the Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE does just that. Like some of our favorite gaming monitors, this portable option boasts a 240Hz refresh rate with Nvidia G-Sync compatibility and low input lag, ensuring smooth, tear-free gameplay. The 17.3-inch 1080p display features an IPS panel for easy viewing from any angle, making it perfect for gaming on the go.
This monitor is custom-tuned for gaming, with a 240Hz refresh rate for improved motion clarity and lower input latency. Asus also focuses on response time, offering 3ms responsiveness compared to 6ms or higher on other models like the Espresso Pro 17. With Adaptive Sync support, your gameplay remains buttery smooth and free of tearing.
Beyond gaming, the XG17AHPE's portability features allow for versatile use. It has two USB Type-C ports—one for video input and one for quick charging its massive 7,800mAh battery—and built-in speakers. Although the speakers could be better, a dedicated gaming headset provides an enhanced audio experience.
While primarily focused on gaming, the XG17AHPE also serves well as a second screen for your laptop or PC. Its 17.3-inch screen is spacious enough for browsing, watching videos, or working. The built-in battery extends usage time, especially when running at a 60Hz refresh rate for productivity and entertainment, lasting nearly a full workday.
The Asus ROG Strix XG17AHPE is an outstanding portable monitor, packed with useful features for various use cases.
2. Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz
0 This affordable gaming monitor offers a high refresh rate and bright picture at a budget-friendly price.
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I must confess that when I first saw the Arzopa Z1FC 144Hz portable gaming monitor, I thought it would be just another budget option. However, it exceeded my expectations. Priced around $100, it offers impressive features for its cost.
This monitor features a standard 1080p resolution on a 16.1-inch IPS panel, providing rich color reproduction and slightly better contrast than most at a 1200:1 ratio. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, ensuring accurate visuals for both laptop and console use, though the color temperature can be a bit cool.
With a 144Hz refresh rate, it's ideal for use with more powerful consoles like the Steam Deck, Asus ROG Ally, PS5, or Xbox, offering lower input latency for responsive gameplay. Connectivity is hassle-free, supporting USB Type-C video or mini-HDMI, and it includes all necessary cables and a folio cover for protection.
At 300 nits of peak brightness, it's brighter than many competitors, making it suitable for indoor use and even some outdoor scenarios. The only minor drawback is the speakers, which lack volume and quality. However, the Arzopa Z1FC remains an excellent budget pick that proves "affordable" doesn't mean "bland."
3. Espresso 17 Pro
0 Elegantly offering a true monitor experience, this display boasts excellent performance and a simple setup.
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The Espresso 17 Pro is a premium high-performance portable monitor ideal for those needing a full 4K experience on the go. Hailing from Australia, Espresso is known for its elegant, "Apple-esque" products that are simple to use, portable, and consistently high quality.
One of the standout features is its ability to offer a near-desktop monitor experience, thanks to its magnetic folding stand with height and tilt adjustments. Setup is as easy as unfolding the stand, attaching the display, and connecting it with a single high-bandwidth USB-C cable.
The screen is the real highlight, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space with 450 nits of brightness and 4K resolution, delivering a crisp, colorful, and accurate viewing experience. It's perfect for creative work without needing post-purchase calibration. The built-in accelerometer allows for automatic orientation switching between portrait and landscape modes.
While the Espresso 17 Pro is pricey, it feels premium from unboxing to its design and finish. It's built around simplicity without compromising on quality. The only critiques are the lack of a case and its 60Hz refresh rate, which may not suit avid gamers. However, for 4K enthusiasts, it's a top choice.
4. ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED
0 Grab this 15.6-inch OLED display for an impressive 100,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 400 nits of brightness, ensuring deep blacks and easy viewing.
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OLED monitors are renowned for their high contrast and brightness, and the ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED encapsulates this technology in a lightweight, ultra-thin full HD portable monitor. Designed for professional quality, its Pantone-validated display ensures your photos, videos, and digital art meet industry standards. At $399, it's a solid investment for its features.
The 15.6-inch screen offers a spacious view with 400 nits of peak brightness. The OLED panel provides infinite contrast for true blacks and a wide dynamic range, with 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. Although it runs at 60Hz, its high-quality screen still supports gaming.
Beyond the screen, it features two USB-C ports on its versatile folding stand, supporting both power and video with passthrough charging for your laptop. It also includes a micro HDMI port for compatibility with various devices, including Windows and Mac.
Weighing only 2.2lbs and folding down to 0.8 inches thick, it's highly portable. The ViewSonic ColorPro VP16-OLED is an excellent choice for creative professionals seeking to enhance their productivity on the go.
5. Wacom Cintiq Pro 16
0 A sharp 16-inch display with pen support, perfect for creatives.
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For digital artists looking to elevate their work without breaking the bank, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is the clear choice. Though a few years old, its performance remains top-notch, solidifying its place as a favorite in the digital art community.
The Cintiq's appeal lies in its display and pen experience. It features a bright 4K resolution screen with up to 98% Adobe RGB color gamut support. The etched screen provides a tactile feel similar to drawing on paper, and the pen offers 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity with customizable buttons and an eraser.
Enhance your workflow with eight programmable Express Keys and support for multi-touch and gesture control. The only downside is its price, with newer competitors offering similar features at lower costs. However, the Cintiq Pro's quality, reliability, and feature set make it an excellent choice for artists.
While portable monitors may not have all the features of a full-fledged desktop monitor, they offer numerous benefits. Here are key factors to consider:
Size: Our picks range from 13 to 17 inches. Choose based on your intended use and portability needs. Larger displays often come with carrying cases, while smaller ones fit easily into a backpack. A 15.6-inch screen is a common choice, balancing size and portability. For use in tight spaces, like on a plane, consider a 12.5- or 14-inch screen. Weight is also a factor, as even portable monitors vary.
Resolution: Most monitors offer 1080p resolution with an IPS panel. For gaming or digital art, higher resolutions may be preferable. Standard 60Hz refresh rates are common, but for gaming, consider 120Hz or 144Hz panels for a smoother experience.
Brightness: Affordable monitors often have lower brightness. For indoor use, 250 nits may suffice, but for a vibrant experience, aim for 300 to 400 nits. Be cautious of exaggerated claims from lesser-known brands.
Connectivity: Ensure the monitor is compatible with your devices. All our picks support USB-C, but verify your laptop's USB-C port can output video. Some monitors require additional power cables, while others support single-cable power and video.
Reading reviews can help assess less obvious features like picture customization options. Also, consider whether the monitor comes with a protective case or if you need to budget for one.
Portable monitors benefit a wide range of users. Travelers and remote workers appreciate the productivity boost from an extra compact screen. They're also useful for presentations and ideal for those with limited desk space. Gamers using phones or handheld PCs can enjoy a larger, faster screen for easier gameplay.
Portable monitors are smaller than full-size displays for portability. Choose based on your needs—smaller screens for basic tasks and larger ones for detailed work like digital art.
Prices vary, but many portable monitors can be found for under $200. Lower-cost models may lack brightness and advanced features, while higher-performance models typically range from $100 to $300.
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