The best travel monitors allow you to get work done, gain insight, and travel as much as you need to. These portable travel monitors are a must for digital nomads, those who work remotely from numerous locations, and PC gamers looking for an added level of excitement.
There are many options, and most portable monitors are easy to use and set up. However, before you head off to purchase one, you need to consider how they work, what size and resolution you need, and which fits your budget.
Our Top Recommended Portable Travel Monitors
If you need an extra screen for about any reason, the portable monitor options here are well worth your investment.
| Monitor name | Screen size | Resolution | Weight | Price | Prominent features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viewsonic VP16-OLED | 15.6″ | 1080p | 2lbs | $400 | Ultra-portable, USB-C connectivity, provides 40W charging, height adjustment |
| Arzopa A1 Gamut | 15.6″ | 1080p | 1.44lbs | $150 | Comes with all cables, 3 inputs (2 USB-C and 1 mini HDMI), bright clear image |
| espresso Display | 15.6″ | 1080p | 865g | $500 | Durable aluminum frame, touchscreen with LED panel, ultra-thin at 5.3mm |
| NexiGo | 17.3″ | 1080p | 5.69lbs | $449 | 110% sRGB color gamut, 1443Hz refresh rate, large display |
| INNOCN Portable Monitor | 15.6″ | 1080p | 1.6lbs | $350 | OLED backlit, 2 signal input options (USB C and mini HDMI), excellent HDR technology |
Best Portable Monitors for Travel
When you need more screen real estate than your laptop can provide, seek out any of these portable monitors. We picked these based on reviews, portability, and reliability, so you’ll have a second screen you can take just about anywhere.
1. Viewsonic VP16-OLED
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Price: $400
Key Features:
- Ultra-portable design with a 60Hz refresh rate that makes it ideal for gaming and design.
- Features USB-C connectivity for data, audio, and video transfer and has 40W charging over a single cable design.
- Ergonomic height adjustment stand and tripod mount are provided with a screen cover and monitor hood to protect it.
User Review Insight:
Users appreciate this portable monitor for several reasons, including the good quality images and easy slide into a backpack. It also works with various software options, including providing access through ViewSonic for some advanced settings.
The Details:
With full HD1080p resolution and advanced OLED technology, this portable monitor’s overall video quality and performance are top-notch. It has the best color uniformity and provides exceptional details thanks to the VP16-OLED’s factory calibration.
It is also Pantone Validated. Use the tripod mount with it for still images and expect a high-quality photo. It also has a protective screen cover that helps create a “dark room” effect when used. Plus, with two USB-C ports, you gain 2-way charging and a mini HDMI and a headphone jack.
This portable display provides excellent images and reliable performance with faster refresh rates than some LCD monitors. It can keep up with any type of work you are doing both indoors and outdoors while also featuring a blue light filter and Flicker-free technology to help keep your eyes safe.
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2. Arzopa A1 Gamut
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 1.44 lbs.
- Price: $150
Key Features:
- Three input options, including 2 USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and a Mini-HDMI.
- Bright, clear display and image.
- Comes with all cables to hook it up.
User Review Insight:
Users love that this portable monitor is inexpensive for the overall quality. They also note that this is a good option for what it is – without a lot of the frills but for reliability.
The Details:
The Arzopa A1 Gamut offers some nice features, including a noticeable improvement in color and display resolution over other products (thanks to the 16.7 million colors and 1200:1 contrast ratio it offers). This makes it exceptional for streaming media, graphic design, or any type of detailed work.
Another nice feature is the in-plane switching (IPS) technology it offers. That means that you will get impressive angles and the perfect image no matter what position you place the portable monitor. Someone sitting next to you, for example, can benefit from your portable display.
This is the best budget portable monitor available, thanks to its overall specs and the quality of the computer screen. Unlike other portable monitors priced much higher, the Arzopa A1 Gamut is simple to set up and use, making it super convenient and efficient.
3. espresso Display
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 865g
- Price: $500
Key Features:
- Durable aluminum frame that can make it a truly portable monitor that goes with you.
- Powerful touchscreen with an LED panel display.
- Super thin at 5.3 mm, ideal for a backpack.
User Review Insight:
Users appreciate the size (perfect for going with them on road trips and just to the lunchroom to work. A great option for a Photoshop and Storyboard Pro display. The plug-and-play design makes it versatile for most needs.
The Details:
The espresso Display is ideal for Mac, Windows, and most other operating systems. It does more than just provide a portable monitor. It also allows users to markup PDFs and use it as a whiteboard.
This makes it an excellent option for any type of presentation or display. It connects with desktops, laptops, tablets, minicomputers, and other systems using a USB-C, HDMI, or Displayport linkup. It’s also super easy to set up and start using on the go.
The company calls it the world’s thinnest portable monitor, allowing for on-the-go brainstorming with the team, fine-tuned drawing and sketching for graphic designers, and tools like Mural, ZBrush, Sketchbook, and Illustrator, all within reach. It costs more but offers a lot of features that make it a great mobile device for creatives, especially with the USB Type C ports that let you plug it into just about anything.
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4. NexiGo
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 5.69 pounds
- Price: $449
Key Features:
- Excellent immersion with 100% sRGB color gamut as well as a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, producing excellent image quality.
- The 1443Hz refresh rate helps to create fast-paced action, making this one of the best portable displays for gaming.
- The large display screen gives you ample visual quality for engaging in gaming.
User Review Insight:
Users say this super-thin and lightweight portable gaming screen is the perfect option for connecting their Xbox, PlayStation 5, or other system. It has excellent graphics and smooth video.
The Details:
The NexiGo is the ideal portable gaming display when you want ample screen size and lots of compatibility. It works with laptops, PCs, numerous cameras, Android, Apple, Xbox, Switch, and Macs to allow for gameplay that fits your style.
If you need a second monitor with extra screen space for gaming, this is the best gaming monitor for the money, especially the 4ms response time, making gaming exceptional.
5. INNOCN Portable Monitor
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
- Price: $350
Key Features:
- Exceptional display monitor that is OLED backlit for superior brightness and color, along with an immersive experience. Excellent true-to-life picture with low latency for realistic viewing.
- Two signal input options with a USB-C and Mini HDMI allow users to plug in digital cameras, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, smartphones, laptops, and just about everything else without any drivers being necessary.
- Excellent HDR technology creates a more immersive gaming experience overall.
User Review Insight:
Users share that the key to this display is that it’s very easy to use. Simply plug it in and start using it as a second monitor for any computer or laptop need, gaming, or on-the-go work tool. With the high level of contrast ratio and 400nits brightness, it creates a vivid image, too, making it very realistic.
The Details:
These portable monitors are an excellent choice for those who need fast, reliable, but an excellent level of visual quality. This is a great gaming monitor because of all it offers, including a good screen size of 15.6 inches and the adjustable stand it includes.
It can work with any console games you enjoy using, too. The laptop’s display is excellent for mobile gaming that needs to be visually detailed, but this is also a great monitor for those who need mobile screens for graphic design or photo editing work as well.
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6. Asus ROG Strix
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 1.98 pounds
- Price: $350
Key Features:
- The fold-out kickstand provides multiple positions, including landscape and portrait orientation, for more versatile use.
- The built-in high capacity 7800 MaH battery makes it far easier to keep it going, offering up to 3 hours of use at 144 Hz and a quick change feature
- Features USB-C and micro HDMI ports for game consoles, smartphones, tablets, cameras, and just about anything else.
User Review Insight:
As a powerful portable monitor, the Asus ROG Strix uses a lot of battery power. Still, the built-in battery makes it a bit easier to use it for routine needs consistently.
With the mini HDMI port, USB C port, and high-quality built-in speakers, it is versatile for just about any need, and the 15.6-inch portable monitor is great for students, remote work, and gaming needs. Users love that the Asus ROG Strix also produces fast, high-quality images that are top-notch compared to any other portable monitor.
The Details:
A few things help the Asus ROG Strix stand out, including the incredible sound everywhere, thanks to the built-in speakers. The Asus ROG Strix features stereo speakers upfront, which means that the game audio is coming right at you, allowing you to see, feel, and hear what is happening with ease. It also features the auto-rotate function, which is a kickstand that lets you prop it up instantly in a landscape orientation or in a portrait orientation based on what you are doing.
Other key features include the super-fast 144Hz refresh rate, which allows you to have one of the best gaming displays out there, especially when you are engaging in racing, shooter, or real-time strategy play. That, along with the built-in battery and Quick Charge Technology, really makes the Asus ROG Strix an excellent portable monitor for gaming or for anyone who is looking for a fast-moving, highly visual design.
7. Lenovo ThinkVision M14d
- Screen Size: 14 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 3.85 pounds
- Price: $400
Key Features:
- A smaller design is easier for those who need a portable display that is easy to take with them.
- Excellent wireless connectivity and mirroring capabilities in an OLED panel.
- Built-in battery that is rechargeable.
User Review Insight:
The compact design makes it easier to use this portable monitor in small spaces, like at a desk or in the car. It works well for pairing with a laptop that matches the 16:10 aspect ratio. The single USB C port makes it a bit limiting with limited power source options.
The Details:
A durable, high-quality portable monitor, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14d is a smaller but ultra-portable option. It has a hinged stand that has a nice tilt range to it. It also has a nice, bright screen for easy vising.
Though it costs a bit more and only offers USB-C connectivity, this is a good option for those who want the best portable monitor for smaller hands and limited space needs. The portable display is also more durable than others, meaning it works great in a book bag.
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8. SideTrak Solo
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 4.31 pounds
- Price: $480
Key Features:
- 4K ultra HD display makes it one of the best portable monitors for superior color and brightness, along with its immersive view creating a true-to-life image
- Excellent compatibility with USB-C port, HDMI ports, and USB-A ports allow it to work with any type of device that is 4K compatible
- Super lightweight and slim with a 0.354-inch touchscreen design
User Review Insight:
Users share that while they know they are paying more for this 15.6-inch portable monitor, they are getting a superior image on their second screen, which can benefit everything from gaming to detailed photo editing work on the goal. The portable monitors worth this much often do not offer 4K display quality.
The Details:
The SideTrack Solo is the best portable monitor for those who want superior image quality. It allows for fast connectivity through a plug-and-play design, and the touchscreen portable monitor is an excellent overall choice or functionality on the goal. It has a built-in kickstand, and you can easily use this freestanding portable monitor in both portrait and landscape modes.
9. ZenScreen
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 1.9 pounds
- Price: $299
Key Features:
- Solid option with a 16:9 aspect ratio, ultra-portable design that is super lightweight.
- Features a Smart Cover and Smart Pen for landscape and portrait use and with auto rotation.
- Anti-glare IPS micro HDMI and USB C portable monitor design.
User Review Insight:
Users note a few things that stand out from this portable monitor, including the lightweight design that works well when taking it on a plane. Like many portable monitors, it is easy to set up, but the image here is outstanding as well. They share that the image is solid, and the long-lasting built-in battery makes it a remote tool they can rely on.
The Details:
The ZenScreen has a lot of great features, including the 7800 mAh built-in battery that keeps people proactive no matter where they are, especially with up to four hours of use. It is slim and stylish, creating a good option for the busy professional who wants a reliable and quality product. It also connects to just about anything, including USB-C-compatible game consoles, cameras, laptops, and smartphones.
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10. MNN Portable Monitor
- Screen Size: 15.6 inch
- Screen Resolution: 1080p
- Weight: 2.1 pounds
- Price: $99
Key Features:
- The super low price makes this an excellent choice for those who want to keep costs as low as possible.
- Offers high-quality images, with the advanced IPS glossy screen supporting up to a 178-degree viewing angle.
- Use it for game consoles, Macbooks, PCs, laptops, and more.
User Review Insight:
At this price point, users love that it offers such a high-quality image and good overall reliability. It is also designed to have no flickering and eye-care solutions built in to make using it rather easy.
The Details:
The MNN portable monitor is an excellent, low-budget option that offers good resolution and color brightness while still offering the no flickering protection you need. It features double Type-C ports to allow for plug-and-play setup and has two full-feature Type-C ports for more versatile use. The lightweight, ultra-slim design makes this portable monitor excellent when you need to travel, but it is also a good option for gaming and working remotely.
11. GTEK
- Screen Size: 15.8 inches
- Screen Resolution: HD 1920 x 1080p
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Price: $160
Key Features:
- FHD display with IPS technology for incredible visuals
- Slip and light design makes it super portable
- Simple one cable setup to link to PC, tablets, gaming consoles
- Excellent sound quality for gaming
- Low blue light and eye care protection
User Review Insight:
Users love the quality of the image and that it takes just plugging it into their other device to see significant improvement in their screen surface space. They also like that this is a competitive priced model for the quality it offers.
The Details:
The GTEK has an excellent screen with not only an FHD display with IPS technology but also 1920 by 1080 at 60Hz allowing for excellence for game play, streaming video, or handling demanding tasks easily. It also has a minim HDMI port and two built-in speakers to ensure you get the full audio and experience.
How to Choose the Best Travel Monitors for You
Potable monitors come in nearly as many configures as you will find traditional laptops and PCs. No matter which you choose, most portable monitors are built to be easy to use on the go. Before you decide which to purchase, there are a few things to remember about all portable monitors out there.
How Do You Plan to Use Your Monitor?
The best portable monitor must meet the specific goals you have for use. Do you plan to:
- Use the portable monitor for a permanent second monitor on your desk.
- Use the monitor for gaming needs.
- Take the monitor with you when you work from coffee shops to other locations.
- Use the monitor in the car or at the job site.
- Take the monitor with you to school or meetings for on-the-go presentations.
Depending on what you plan to do – from streaming movies with a friend to engaging in high-paced gaming action, your portable monitor has to meet your specific needs. Let’s dive into how to choose those options.
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Key Features to Look For
Image Quality
The higher the image quality, the better and more immersive the experience and the higher the cost. While you can choose a 4K resolution portable monitor, that is typically unnecessary unless you are doing highly detailed photo or video editing or graphic design work, where absolute visual quality is key.
Connectivity
Having proper connectivity makes a bit of difference if that is a factor in how you plan to use it. For example, if you plan to use a portable monitor for gaming, you need to ensure it can link to your gaming consoles (most will list which consoles it can link to). If you are using your portable monitor as a presentation tool, you may want it to connect through USB C-type connectivity with your smartphone. Options typically include:
- USB (USB-C being the most common)
- Video inputs like HDMI
- Number of ports
Size and Weight
Portable monitors need to be easy to take with you, which means they should be lightweight and slim in their overall design. However, the size you need is dependent on the amount of screen real estate necessary for the type of work you do.
Most portable monitors are 15.6-inch displays, but some are much larger, which may be ideal in situations where you need more flexibility in presenting large amounts of data or you want a lot of screen space in a gaming world.
Also, consider weight, especially if you need to carry the portable monitor with you throughout the day in a backpack or briefcase. It has to be lightweight enough for you to make it highly usable. If it is likely to remain on your desk, by comparison, you may not need something as small.
Kickstands, Covers, and Stands
How will the portable monitor stand up to display its image to you? Many of these monitors now offer built-in kickstands that make it easier for you to position them well. Some adjust the angle far more so than others, though. If you are a taller person, you may want one that angles more so than normal.
You also want to consider the features provided, like a cover to help protect the screen and minimize glare and a shiny, glossy display that makes using the portable monitor for numerous hours easier. You may also want to look for other features to make it easier to use, like not just a built-in kickstand but one that offers height and angle adjustment.
A carry-on bag or other features, like a built-in stand with charging ports, are also things to look out for.
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Best Portable Monitor Checklist
Make a list of what you need to use a portable monitor to the fullest. Here are some tips:
- Set a budget for how much you would like to spend. Aim to keep costs in line with your feature expectations (some features can really ramp up the cost).
- Consider what you will use your portable monitor with and ensure you know the connectivity options for it, such as a USB C, HDMI, or Mini HDMI.
- Determine which features are most important to the way you will use this screen, such as having touchscreen functionality if you plan to use it as a presentation tool or a high refresh rate if you plan to use it for gaming.
FAQ
What size portable monitor is best for your needs?
Many portable monitors range in size from 14 inches up to 17 inches, though it is far more common to find 15.6-inch portable monitors available today. Choose whichever size is best suited for your needs based on weight, how much screen space you need, and how well it fits into your laptop bag.
What resolution is best for a portable monitor?
A higher resolution can be a good way to improve visual quality, though anything above 1080p may not be necessary for the higher cost that comes with it. The very best portable monitors offer 4K resolution, but that adds to the cost and may not be beneficial if your laptop does not offer 4K technology itself.
How much does a good portable monitor cost?
Expect to pay between $200 and $500 for most portable monitors that are high in quality, durable, and offer good resolution. Keep in mind that there are still decent monitors priced lower than this. I’ve been using this refurbished GTEK 15.6-inch portable monitor that I scooped up for less than $100 that works a treat.
Related Resources
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Kyle Kroeger is the Founder and Owner of ViaTravelers.com. He is a seasoned traveler and entrepreneur. Kyle started ViaTravelers.com to help travelers find their next adventure, whether it’s exploring new places or revisiting old favorites.
He’s a converted finance nerd and Excel jockey turned world wonderer (and may try to get lost on purpose). He loves listening to people’s stories from around the world as well as sharing his own experiences traveling the globe. He loves travel so much that he moved from his hometown of Minneapolis to Amsterdam with his small family to travel Europe full-time.
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