Top 5 Portable External Monitors: Buyer's Guide Now

Ever felt cramped working on your laptop screen, wishing for a little more space to spread out your windows? You’re not alone! Many of us need extra screen real estate, especially when we travel or work from different spots. But when you start looking for a portable external monitor, things can get confusing fast. Should you pick a small one or a bigger one? What about how it connects? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the features and jargon.

This guide is here to clear up the confusion. We will break down what makes a great portable monitor. You’ll learn about the important things to look for so you can find the perfect match for your needs. Stop guessing and start knowing exactly what you need for a better mobile workspace.

Keep reading to discover the secrets to choosing a fantastic portable external monitor that will boost your productivity and make your work life easier, no matter where you are.

Top Portable External Monitor Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

ForHelp 15.6inch Portable Monitor,1080P USB-C HDMI Second External Monitor for Laptop,PC,Mac Phone,PS,Xbox,Swich,IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming Display/Premium Smart Cover

Extensive Compatibility - Forhelp portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable. NOTE: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE. It is compatible with all devices equipped with HDMI and USB Type-C ports like laptops, PS, XBOX, SWITCH game consoles.
Full HD Portable Monitor - 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution, advanced IPS Matte screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into the video or game with lifelike colors and amazing detail. It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time.
Ultra-slim Portable Monitor - As a portable external monitor, Forhelp portable laptop monitor's body is made of aluminum alloy, the weight of the whole machine is 1.52lb, 0.3" ultra-thin profile, can easily fit into your bag, so you can carry it with you. With our magnetic smart holster, you can use and store it anytime.
Able to Balance Work and Play - With multiple display modes [copy mode/extension mode/second screen mode]. During meetings,it can copy your laptop's content as a second screen to share with others. At work, it can be used as a second extended screen to increase productivity. In life, adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights, more realistic colors and images. Two built-in speakers provide an amazing viewing and gaming experience.
DURABLE SMART COVER - Comes with a scratch-proof smart cover made of durable PU leather exterior, doubles as a stand, provides comprehensive protection for this portable computer monitor. There are two grooves in the cover base to give at least some choice of viewing angle for your comfort.

Bestseller No. 2

KYY Portable Monitor 15.6inch 1080P FHD USB-C, HDMI Computer Display HDR IPS Gaming Monitor w/Premium Smart Cover & Screen Protector, Speakers, for Laptop PC MAC Phone PS4 Xbox Switch

[ FHD 1080P PORTABLE MONITOR ]: KYY using a 15.6''(8.8"x14.2") advanced IPS screen with 178° wide viewing angle, Delivers 1920*1080 breathtaking viewing quality and HDR technology, KYY portable gaming monitor has excellent color rendering ability, provide you the clearer, smooth, excellent performance in gaming/multimedia. It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time
[ WIDE COMPATIBILITY ]: KYY portable monitor for laptop equipped with 2 Full Function Type-C ports and Mini-HDMI port, easy access to your favorite devices with 1 cable solution as long as your device support Thunderbolt 3 or 3.1 USB-Type-C, compatible with most laptop, smartphone, PC, PS4, XBOX and more.
[ ULTRA-SLIM PORTABLE DISPLAY ]: KYY USB C portable monitor features a 0.3inch ultra-slim profile(1.7lb), it is easy to slides into your bag, allows you to carry it everywhere, ideal for a simple on-the-go dual-monitor setup or extend your phone screen for movies or games. No driver needed and equipped with 3.5mm audio inputs and 2 built-in stereo speakers to enhance entertainment experience
[ DURABLE SMART COVER ]: Comes with a scratch-proof smart cover made of durable PU leather exterior, doubles as a stand, provides comprehensive protection and frameless magnetic design for this portable computer monitor. There are two grooves in the cover base to give at least some choice of viewing angle for your comfort for less cumbersome installation
[ LIGHTWEIGHT BUT POWERFUL ]: KYY portable external monitor can work in both landscape and portrait mode, can be used as a gaming monitor, screen extender for laptop or phone. It has a unique designed Premium gray metal appearance, 2 built-in speakers to play audio, a friendly menu control wheel for setting, and 24/7 professional support team

SaleBestseller No. 3

MNN Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI Gaming Ultra-Slim IPS Display w/Smart Cover & Speakers,HDR Plug&Play, External Monitor for Laptop PC Phone Mac (15.6'' 1080P)

Full HD Portable Monitor - MNN 15.6inch portable laptop monitor with 1920*1080 resolution, advanced IPS matte screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into the video or game with lifelike colors and amazing detail.It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time.A second monitor for working from home.
Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play, the MNN monitor provides 2 Full Feature Type-C ports. Only One USB Type-C Cable is required to connect to the power supply & display signal transmission. NOTE: Your device should support thunderbolt 3.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.which supports multiple connect ways to your laptops, PC, Phones, Macbooks, PS5/PS4, Xbox, and Switch.Tips: Please use the original USB-C to USB-C cable that came with the monitor in box. Don't use the other cables.
Lightweight Ultra Slim for Travel - As a portable external monitor,MNN portable laptop monitor easily accommodate to every suitcase and backpack and stress-free when you are holding it for a long time. They are truly portable computer monitors for travelers, students, gamers,engineers, and everyone.
Give consideration to work and games - through multiple display modes [Copy Mode/Extended Mode/Second Screen Mode/Portrait Mode], we can bring you a clear second screen in the meeting, and expand the screen anytime and anywhere to improve work efficiency and improve the quality of life. Adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights,deeper and more realistic colors, more realistic images, and amazing viewing/gaming experience.
Powerful Smart Cover - MNN portable external monitor can work in both landscape and portrait mode, can be used as a gaming monitor, screen extender for laptop or phone. Comes with a scratch-proof smart cover made of durable PU leather exterior, doubles as a stand, provides comprehensive protection for this portable computer monitor.

Bestseller No. 4

cocopar Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P FHD 60Hz 85% sRGB Travel Monitor with Speaker HDMI USB-C Second Screen for Laptop MacBook Surface PC Xbox PS4/5, VESA Mountable, with Cover Stand

Portable Monitor for Laptops: Cocopar laptop screen extender is the ideal portable monitor for Macbook, Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, Lenovo Laptop, HP Laptop, Dell Laptop, ASUS Laptop, etc. This second monitor for laptop supports Extend and Mirror Mode, bringing you efficiency for meetings, work from home, and presentations
Plug and Play USB-C Monitor: Cocopar portable laptop monitor provides 2 Full-featured USB-C ports and a mini HDMI port, is compatible with most laptops, PC, PS4, and Xbox. Only One single USB-C Cable is required for both power supply and display and supports power pass-through reverse charging. NOTE: Your device should support thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE
FHD Portable Monitor VESA Mountable: Featuring a 1080P resolution, 60 HZ, 85% color gamut, 178° FULL viewing angle, HDR, and Low Blue Light Super Clear IPS A-grade screen, this Cocopar 15.6 inch portable screen for laptop with two VESA holes can be easily and stably mounted on a stand for landscape and vertical mode for high productivity
Portable and Light Weight: Cocopar travel monitor for laptop is the ideal companion for all your business trips and home office. Measures only 4mm (0.2 inches) at the slimmest point and 1.5 lb without the magnetic cover (2.4 lb with cover). Coming with a Smart Stand Case, this travel monitor is well-protected and flexible to use anywhere you need a second screen for laptop
Your Go-To Screen Anywhere: Perfect for remote work, business trips, virtual meetings, gaming, and content creation. Cocopar delivers flexible dual-screen convenience wherever you are.

Bestseller No. 5

Anyuse Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand, for Laptop, PC, Mac Phone, PS, Xbox, Swich IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming

15.6" FHD Portable Monitor - Featuring a 1920*1080P resolution, 178°FULL viewing angle, HDR, and Low Blue Light Super Clear IPS A-grade screen, this Anyuse portable screen for laptop enhanced visual experience, reduces eye strain and fatigue.
Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play - Anyuse portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable. NOTE: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.
Portable & Light Weight - At just 1.37lbs and 0.04 inch thin, this portable laptop monitor is ultra-portable and perfect for on-the-go productivity or gaming. flexible to use anywhere you need a second screen for laptop. bringing you efficiency for meetings, work from home, and presentations.
Able to Balance Work and Play - With multiple display modes [copy mode/extension mode/second screen mode]. During meetings,it can copy your laptop's content as a second screen to share with others.At work, it can be used as a second extended screen to increase productivity. In life, adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights, more realistic colors and images.Two built-in speakers provide an amazing viewing and gaming experience.
Wide Compatibility - Enjoy hassle-free plug-and-play functionality with the portable monitor. it is compatible with all devices equipped with HDMI and USB Type-C ports like laptops, PS, XBOX, SWITCH game consoles, No app or driver installation required.

Bestseller No. 6

ASUS ZenScreen 16” Portable USB Monitor (MB169CK) - Full HD, IPS, Dual USB-C, Mini-HDMI, Eye Care, Flicker Free, Blue Light Filter, Anti-Glare Surface, 360° Kickstand, 3 yr Warranty

15.6-inch Full HD portable anti-glare IPS display with an ultraslim and thin design helps you get things done more efficiently when you’re on the go
USB Type-C connector (DP Alt mode) for user convenience and compatibility with compatible devices
ASUS Eye Care monitors feature TÜV Rheinland-certified Flicker-free and Low Blue Light technologies to ensure a comfortable viewing experience
Automatically sense its orientation and switch the monitor between landscape and portrait modes via DisplayWidget Center software
User-friendly design with embedded tripod socket on the rear and 360° kickstand for versatility.

SaleBestseller No. 7

Yxk Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch 1080P USB-C HDMI Ultra-Slim Travel Monitor with Kickstand, for Laptop, PC, Mac Phone, PS, Xbox, Swich IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Gaming

15.6" FHD Portable Monitor - Featuring a 1920*1080P resolution, 178°FULL viewing angle, HDR, and Low Blue Light Super Clear IPS A-grade screen, this portable screen for laptop enhanced visual experience, reduces eye strain and fatigue.
Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play - Portable monitor features 2 full-featured Type-C ports and 1 MINI HDMI port. You can easily access your favorite devices with just one USB Type-C or MINI HDMI cable. NOTE: Your device should support Thunderbolt 3.0/4.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.
Portable & Light Weight - At just 1.43lbs and 0.31 inch thin, this portable laptop monitor is ultra-portable and perfect for on-the-go productivity or gaming. flexible to use anywhere you need a second screen for laptop. bringing you efficiency for meetings, work from home, and presentations.
Able to Balance Work and Play - With multiple display modes [copy mode/extension mode/second screen mode]. During meetings,it can copy your laptop's content as a second screen to share with others.At work, it can be used as a second extended screen to increase productivity. In life, adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights, more realistic colors and images.Two built-in speakers provide an amazing viewing and gaming experience.
Wide Compatibility - Enjoy hassle-free plug-and-play functionality with the portable monitor. it is compatible with all devices equipped with HDMI and USB Type-C ports like laptops, PS, XBOX, SWITCH game consoles, No app or driver installation required.

SaleBestseller No. 8

ASUS ZenScreen 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor - 1080P, Full HD, IPS, USB Type-C, Eye Care, Kickstand, for Laptop, PC, Phone, Console, Anti-Glare Surface, 3-Year Warranty - MB16ACV

15.6-inch Full HD portable anti-glare IPS display with an ultraslim and thin design, perfect solution for travel, on-the-go meetings, or business trips.Specific uses for product - Business
Kickstand design to prop the monitor up in either portrait or landscape mode easily
Features a hybrid-signal solution which supports power and video transmission, and enables compatibility with any laptop with a USB Type-C or Type A port
ASUS Eye Care monitors feature TÜV Rheinland-certified Flicker-free and Low Blue Light technologies to ensure a comfortable viewing experience
Free 3-month Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription: Receive complimentary access with the purchase of this product (offer valid from 9/15/2021 to 8/31/2024)

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Portable External Monitor

A portable external monitor is like a helpful sidekick for your laptop. It gives you extra screen space when you are working, gaming, or watching movies on the go. Picking the right one can make your mobile setup much better. Here is what you need to know before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

These features truly matter for a good portable monitor experience.

Screen Size and Resolution

Size: Most portable monitors range from 13 to 17 inches. Bigger screens give you more room but weigh more. Think about how much space you have in your bag.
Resolution: Look for at least 1080p (Full HD). This means the picture will be sharp. If you work with photos or videos, aim for 2K or 4K for the best detail.

Brightness and Color

Brightness (Nits): Higher nits mean the screen is brighter. If you plan to work outside or in bright cafes, look for 300 nits or more.
Color Accuracy: This is important for designers. Look for good sRGB coverage (90% or higher). This ensures the colors you see are true to life.

Connectivity

USB-C (The Best): Many modern monitors use one USB-C cable for both power and video signal. This keeps your setup clean and simple.
HDMI: Older laptops or some gaming consoles might need an HDMI port. Make sure the monitor includes the right cable or adapter.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used affect how long your monitor lasts and how light it is.

Screen Panel Type

IPS (In-Plane Switching): Most good portable monitors use IPS panels. They offer excellent viewing angles. You can look at the screen from the side, and the color stays true.
OLED: These are newer and offer perfect blacks and amazing contrast. They are often lighter but cost more.

The Housing (Body)

Aluminum: Metal bodies are durable and feel premium. They handle bumps better when traveling.
Plastic: Plastic shells keep the cost down and make the monitor very light. Check that the hinges feel strong if the stand is built into the cover.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

These small details can make a big difference in your daily use.

Quality Boosters

Touchscreen Capability: Some models let you tap and swipe, which is great for presentations or quick edits on a tablet.
Built-in Battery: A battery means you do not need to plug the monitor into a wall outlet all the time.
HDR Support: High Dynamic Range (HDR) makes bright parts brighter and dark parts darker, improving video quality.

Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid)

Slow Refresh Rate: If you game, a slow rate (like 60Hz) might cause motion blur. Gamers should seek 120Hz or more.
Poor Stands: If the stand is flimsy, your screen might wobble every time you touch the keyboard. A solid, adjustable stand is crucial.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about *how* you will use your new screen.

Work Setup

For productivity, dual screens boost your work speed. You can put documents on one screen and your main work on the other. A lightweight design is best if you move between home and the office often.

Entertainment and Gaming

For watching movies or casual gaming, focus on good color and fast response times. Make sure your laptop has enough power to run the monitor smoothly through USB-C.

Portability

The best portable monitors are thin (often under half an inch) and weigh less than two pounds. They must slide easily into a laptop sleeve or backpack.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Portable External Monitors

Q: Do portable monitors need a separate power cord?

A: Many modern ones only need power and video through one USB-C cable. Others need a separate USB-A or wall plug for extra power.

Q: Can I connect a portable monitor to my phone?

A: Yes, if your phone has a USB-C port that supports video output (often called DisplayPort Alternate Mode). Check your phone’s specifications first.

Q: What is the difference between a portable monitor and a drawing tablet screen?

A: A drawing tablet screen is usually designed for pen input and drawing. A portable monitor is designed just for displaying video and data from a computer.

Q: Will a portable monitor drain my laptop battery quickly?

A: Yes, using any external screen uses more power. Monitors powered only by USB-C use less power than those plugged into the wall.

Q: Are portable monitors durable enough for travel?

A: Monitors with metal backs and protective smart covers are the most durable. Always use a padded bag for protection.

Q: What is a “smart cover”?

A: A smart cover acts as both a screen protector when closed and a kickstand when open. This saves you from carrying a separate stand.

Q: Can I use two portable monitors at once?

A: Yes, if your laptop has enough video outputs (like two USB-C ports or one USB-C and one HDMI port). You must check your laptop’s capabilities.

Q: What refresh rate is good for everyday work?

A: For web browsing and documents, 60Hz is perfectly fine. Gamers need 120Hz or higher.

Q: How do I know if my laptop supports the monitor?

A: Look for a USB-C port on your laptop that has a small lightning bolt or a “D” symbol next to it. This means it can send video signals.

Q: Are cheaper monitors usually bad?

A: Not always, but cheaper models often use lower-quality panels. This means colors might look washed out, or the screen might not be bright enough for outdoor use.