Don't buy a portable monitor without checking out these 6 features

Summary

Choose the right screen size for your needs to optimize workspace and portability.
Consider resolution and refresh rate based on intended use, from FHD for browsing to 4K for creators.
Select a portable monitor with compatible ports for your devices to ensure convenience and future-proofing.

Two displays are better than one for working efficiently and optimizing productivity. Portable monitors have become must-have accessories for on-the-go laptop users (including myself) because they double your screen size while being light and slim enough to fit in most laptop bags.

Choosing the perfect portable monitor can be challenging because there are so many models to choose from. Each has a different screen size, resolution, and port selection, so it’s worth researching to find the one that best suits your needs. Alternatively, you can look at these six features to help you make the right buying decision.

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1 Size

Find the right screen size for your requirements

Portable monitors range between 8.0 and 27 inches, so you’ll need to find the size that suits you best. Smaller 8-inch, 10.1-inch, and 12.5-inch portable monitors are lightweight and affordable but less popular than larger alternatives because of their limited workspace. 13.3-inch models are a good starting point because they offer decent space for multiple open browser windows, and some include touchscreen functionality.

Mid-size portable monitors in the 14-inch,15.6-inch, and 16-inch ranges are generally the sweet spot for most users. They offer the best balance of price and usability, and their practical size is user-friendly because it mirrors most laptop displays. Large 17.3-inch and 18.5-inch monitors are excellent for gaming and entertainment and offer fantastic workspace. However, they are heavier, bulkier, and usually more costly than smaller models.

14-inch,15.6-inch, and 16-inch ranges are generally the sweet spot.

Extra-large portable monitors, ranging between 22 and 24 inches, are niche models with spacious displays for gaming and content creation. However, they are pricey, and their bulky design makes them difficult to carry.

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2 Resolution and refresh rate

Picture quality and speed matter — big time

Portable monitors mostly use in-plane switching (IPS) panels, which offer wide viewing angles and superb color accuracy. Some use OLED panels with vibrant colors and rich blacks. Both types have varying resolutions and refresh rates, which can impact their use. Most people will manage with standard IPS models featuring a Full HD 1080p display and 60Hz refresh rate. They offer the best price-to-performance ratio and do the job for most tasks like browsing, productivity, and watching content.

Designers and other content creators might benefit from 4K or QHD displays with a higher pixel count for a sharper and more detailed picture. However, these displays usually cost more and require additional bandwidth, affecting your laptop’s battery life if you don’t have a power source nearby. Portable gaming monitors with fast refresh rates above 120Hz and adaptive sync technology are best for players wanting smooth graphics when playing fast-paced titles.

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3 Ports

Don’t leave your old PCs behind

Connectivity is another key factor to consider when buying a portable monitor. Current models usually offer multiple connection types, and they should be compatible with your existing hardware to avoid issues. If you plan on upgrading sometime soon, it’s worth thinking ahead and future-proofing your monitor by ensuring it has the latest ports for newer laptops and PCs.

The simplest way to connect a portable monitor is via USB-C because it requires a single cable for power delivery and signal transfer. Other connection types, like mini-HDMI, micro-HDMI, USB-A, and VGA, are available on portable monitors. These connection types transfer the signal only, meaning you’ll need a direct power source for the portable monitor. They work best with older hardware without USB-C and might require additional drivers to function correctly.

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4 Stand

Stability and adjustability

Every portable monitor needs support to stay upright. Many include flexible origami cases that offer protection and double as kickstands, but they are often flimsy and offer limited support. Getting a portable monitor with a sturdy adjustable stand is sometimes better if you value stability.

Alternatively, you can buy a standalone adjustable stand to let you adjust its height and place the monitor vertically or horizontally for the best viewing angle. If you have a laptop, you can try a portable monitor that attaches to your display via a hinged frame and doesn’t require a stand.

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The icing on top

Some portable monitors include built-in speakers, but the sound quality can vary because of their compact size. Getting one with a 3.5mm audio port to connect speakers and headphones is worth it if you’re serious about sound and don’t want to use your laptop’s audio.

Built-in batteries are optional features on portable monitors that add extra weight and cost. However, they’re still worth getting because they can provide hours of use without draining your laptop’s battery and are especially helpful when you don’t have access to direct power.

Touchscreens are another optional feature that can increase the cost of portable monitors. They add tablet-like functionality to boost practicality, and some include a stylus for sketching and taking notes.

Most users can do without a touchscreen on their portable monitor, and it’s only worth the extra cash if they’ll actually use it.

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6 Price

Options for every budget and user

The trick to finding the right portable monitor is to list the specs and features you can’t live without and use them as a starting point to set a budget. Then, you’ll be able to see what’s available in your price range and — hopefully — find some good deals with additional features.

Basic portable monitors usually start at around $70. Advanced models from established brands like Asus and LG can go for between $150 and $900, depending on specs like resolution, touchscreens, and built-in batteries.